1- The following story contains scenes of graphic

Transcription

Ono Suzue A Man of Talent in the Meiji Era by Silapa Jarun send paypal donations to silapajarun@1happyturtle.com
The following story contains scenes of graphic violence, horror and
various forms of sexuality. Readers must be over the age of 18 !
-1-
Written in honor of NAKAZATO Kaizan (Nakazato Yanosuke) the educator and telephone
operator whose unfinished novel, the dark and contemplative, Daibosatsu Toge (Great Buddha
Pass) introduced karmic narrative as kinetic pulp fiction to modern Japan and the world.
“The phenomena of man’s world…are all due to the accumulated demerit since the beginning of
the world; good is not always good; evil not necessarily evil. This novel pictures the progress of
man, with his manifold sins, to the unique salvation of Buddha through Buddhisattva [sic].”
1
Nakazato Kaizan (Nakazato 2)
My goal was to see how the sword wielding hitokiri, man slayer, of feudal Japan can emerge in
the Meiji Era in another form.
1
Nakazato, Kaizan (translated by C.S. Bavier). Dai-Bosatsu Toge GREAT BODHISATTVA PASS. Tokyo:
Shunju Sha, 1929.
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Born and raised on the rice
of this divine land,
Now a pillar of the state he
stands,
An attractive gentleman
in glittering array
Bedecked with talent and
modern learning, all fall under
his sway
he is the accomplished
Ono Suzue
2
2
The poem is not truly original but inspired by THE BOOK OF SONGS or SHIJING Zhou Dynasty of China
(1122-256 B.C.). The original reads: Born and bred in this kingly land, As pillars of the state they stand:
Talented gentlemen in glittering array, Ease King Wen’s spirit, Facilitate Chou’s sway. [Book of Songs, 235]
-3-
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The Factual Cycle of Threes
The stories are complex and deeply rooted in history (sorry, I’m a nerd). I
have noted major events and listed the [stories] in the timeline.
1868
Boshin War officially starts at Toba and Fushimi at the outskirts of the capital city,
Kyoto. The Tokugawa Shogunate is overthrown by the Sat-Cho-To-Hi (Satsuma, Choshu, Tosa,
Hizen domains) faction. It should be noted that Satsuma was formerly an ally of Aizu, the
domain sanctioned to guard the capital city of Kyoto, during the 1860s, but later Satsuma
conspired with Choshu thus making the “restoration” of the emperor possible. The newly founded
Imperial Army defeats Aizu-han. The Boshin War is concluded in 1869 in Hakodate, on the island
of Hokkaido. [The Pet Rabbit and Sleep on the Sea take place or allude to this year]
1871
Iwakura Mission to the United States. The mission was certainly not the first of
its kind because the Shogunate had sent envoys and students to study abroad during the 1860s.
The architects of the Meiji Era travelled with numerous male students and a handful of girls to the
United States where they placed the youths in schools and homes. The mission later journeyed
to Europe and studied governmental institutions and industries. [ Sleep on the Sea ]
1873
Sheffield School of Science Yale University [Red on Black]
*
*
1883
The Rokumeikan or “Deer Cry Pavilion” is open for governmental officials to
engage foreigners in a western environment. The dance hall was a stage on which Japan
attempted to convey its modernity to the rest of the world.
[ The Pet Rabbit and Measurements ]
1886
“The red direct dye Benzopurpurine developed by Bayer and Agfa's Congo Red
are introduced to Japan.”
[quoted from http://www.bayer.co.jp/bgj/english/bayerinjapan/history.html]
Bayer is the inspiration for the “BEYER” company in this work of fiction. [ Tinted Glasses ]
1889
The Meiji Constitution is promulgated. The sacred words of the Emperor will be
enforced from 1890 to 1947 after Imperial Japan’s defeat in WWII.
“In 1899, the Bayer company marketed acetylsalicylic acid as Aspirin.” [quoted
from http://www.a1b2c3.com/drugs/opi004.htm]. Bayer had developed both Aspirin and heroin
almost simultaneously however the latter will be marketed much later. The company begins to
import its pharmaceutical products to Japan.
-5-
Dedicated to the creators of http://www.dragonsdisciple.com both of whom read
the first draft of this sick little story, which slithered out of the dark corners of my
imagination. Their patience and kindness had unwittingly encouraged the
completion of this horrid work.
***
Special thanks to Mr. A.B. who pointed out that the name Suzue is generally a
woman’s name and in doing so gave me another angle to the story.
My appreciation goes out to Franziska who translated the German lyrics from the
waltz to The Face of Another (Tanin no Kao) a film by Teshigahara and adapted
from the novel by Kobo Abe. Lyrics to “Waltz” were written by Tatsuji Iwabuchi
and performed by Beverly Maeda. Also thanks Nefret Nubti on her discussions
of Sobek with me.
I would like to express my gratitude to the staff at the Ebling Historical Vault at
the Ebling Medical Library University of Wisconsin – Madison and the
Department of Special Collections Memorial Library University of WisconsinMadison. Both collections had fascinating books, which reveal how mesmerism
was practiced and studied by the professional medical community in the 19th
century.
***
Although these stories are fictitious, numerous details are historically accurate
and represent many dominant themes and conflicts in 19th century Japan.
Historical figures are also part of the work. However, if they interact extensively
with imaginary characters, their names have been altered slightly out of respect.
***
“Written and intended to be read after midnight, when the mind
is weak and susceptible to fantastik suggestion.”
Silapa Jarun
Praise/flames/paypal donations can be sent here:
silapajarun@1happyturtle.com
(serious I’ll take paypal donations folks ^_^)
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The Pet Rabbit
1883 Tokyo
Kawano Tomoji watched the new lecturer pace back and forth at the front of the
room. It was nearly the midday break but his own growling stomach would not distract
him from Professor Ono’s manners and striking appearance. Ono-sensei was tall, lean
and allowed his thick raven black hair to creep down just slightly past his collar, which
was a bit too long for his status as an instructor in the Preparatory school for the
Department of Science at Tokyo University. Tomoji tried not to spend too long working
on his observational drawings in his notebook. It was much more enjoyable to watch the
young physician in the dark grey suit unconsciously open and close his gold pocket watch
as he lectured or shook a small piece of chalk in his closed fist. He intently observed the
speaker’s sensual lips move to pronounce the Latin terms eloquently and with ease.
“Kawano-san, the feline?” Ono looked directly at the startled student whose
attention was still clouded by his daydream.
One of Tomoji’s classmates tried to hand the black and brown cat to him. It
nimbly jumped onto his desk and leaned in close to sniff his chest. The students were
asked to pet and interact with the animal before its sacrifice. The young pupil gently
caressed the animal’s head and watched its gold eyes dilate.
Ono’s mask of serenity was broken with a warm smile, “Kawano-san please bring
it to me. The box is ready and I’ve prepared the chloroform.”
As Kawano approached the small wooden box, angry nails dug into his forearm
and the animal hissed at Ono who quickly placed it inside the death chamber.
“The chloroform should be given in a large dose to overwhelm and kill the animal
quickly. However today we will be doing something different. Does anyone remember
how hot the bath should be?”
Tomoji raised his hand, “Eighty degrees sensei?”
“Very good.” Ono adjusted his spectacles to examine the young man’s masculine
and gentle features. The small class of mostly young men from merchant families
crowded around the table as the lid of the box was opened. “Notice the animal is limp,
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the tongue has protruded slightly and its eyes…” The professor did not get a chance to
finish before the animal screeched and leapt forward scratching Kawano. Ono grabbed
the animal and broke its neck in his strong hands. He looked at the student who nursed
the deep wound, “Kawano are you all right?”
“Yes sensei.”
A man stopped at the opened door and strode in quickly, “Ono-sensei I heard a cat
just now.” The senior instructor looked at Kawano’s scratched hand.
“My apologies Nakanishi-sensei, I wanted to show the students how to drain the
animal’s blood while it is unconscious and the heart is till beating,” Ono spoke
confidently and without remorse.
The short official looked at the young doctor suspiciously and stepped in closer to
criticize, “No disgusting practices. Just finish off the animal quickly. Now proceed.”
Nakanishi watched the dissection continue with the placing of the cat in the hot water, its
fur scraped off and head removed with a small axe. Ono’s superior left when he was
reassured the instruction would be by the book. After several hours, the animal was fully
used, its opened body cavity closed and its four legs tied together to give the illusion that
it was curled in sleep 3.
As the rest of the class left, Ono caught Kawano’s wrist, “Please allow me to look
at the wound.” Although surprised by the contact, he was happy to have the teacher’s
attention. Without looking up, Ono cleaned the minor wound and wrapped a cotton
gauze expertly around the young man’s hand.
“What is your background Kawano-san?” Dr. Ono traced small circles with his
thumb on the inside of the student’s wrist.
“My father is a merchant.”
Ono chuckled, “Yes, so many samurai dislike their sons studying dead, foul
things for fear of pollution. Yet when they become ill and risk becoming a corpse they
seek doctors. Isn’t that funny?”
3
All details on the cat dissection are from Wilder, Burt G. (Burt Green), 1841-1925. Anatomical
technology as applied to the domestic cat; an introduction to human, veterinary, and comparative
anatomy. New York, A.S. Barnes, 1886. Although published in the late 1880s the content deals with
practices as early as the 1870s. Unlike modern dissection practices, the cat’s bodies, not stiff from
formaldehyde preservation, were positioned in “sleep” once the examination was over or when students left
for a break.
-9-
Kawano agreed.
“Do you have plans for this evening? If not, come by my estate.” He handed a
card with his address printed in English, “Frock coat is adequate. Western meal of
course.”
How could Kawano decline? “I’m honored to attend. Sensei do those help your
vision much?” Tomoji pointed at his own eyes.
“Ah, these glasses wouldn’t help anyone Kawano-san,” He took off the brassframed glasses and tapped the lens with his nail, “Just glass. I wear them to look
intelligent and older.” Ono laughed as Kawano marveled at how young his teacher
actually was. He is less than five years older than I.
~~~~~~~~~~
1868 Aizu-han: Boshin War
The Imperial army routed the bakufu troops at Toba and Fushimi and at other
locations. Their conquest pushed north with the combined troops of Satsuma, Choshu
and Tosa aiming to take the castle town of Wakamatsu, the capital of Aizu-han a long
time political rival of the southwestern domains in the capital of Kyoto.
“Father please don’t leave me, ” the ten-year-old tugged an older man’s sleeve.
“Be quiet and act like a man. You should be happy to see how a victorious army
conducts itself!” The reprimand from the Satsuma retainer caused his son to purse his
lips. Ryuichi frowned and tried not to think of his mother yelling at the head of the
family and reviling her husband for taking their only son into a war situation. She finally
relented only because her failing health and imminent death was near. They had no
extended family and with her man gone there would be no one to care for their heir.
Ryuichi became his father’s page and apprentice in war.
“Stay close to our Satsuma troops while I go to Ogama’s 4 camp.” The samurai
patted his son’s shoulder and disappeared into the dark forests and hills which surrounded
Tsurugajo, Aizu-han’s white castle. Ryuichi hugged his knees and looked at the mixture
of exhausted young and old warriors in their modern uniforms and shouldering the long
rifles. He did not associate much with his comrades due to his small size and their coarse
4
“Oyama Iwao…one-time commander of Satsuma’s Second Cannon Squad on Mt Odagawa, that is the
man who directed the final bombardment of Crane Castle.” (Wright 416)
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ways. The boy spent much of his time watching the dragonflies which matured during
the autumn season. A young man carrying a jar of sake stood before the group, “Hey
come on! Everyone! We are going to amuse ourselves with the prisoners follow me.”
The soldier swayed from the alcohol and pawed the air. Ryuichi looked longingly
towards the direction where his father, Satoshi, had run to but decided to follow them
because everyone was getting up to leave.
1883 Tokyo
A beautiful young woman in a black and red silk kimono greeted Kawano at the
door and looked at the card he gave her, “Yes this is the estate of Ono-sensei. Welcome.”
Kawano crossed a traditional garden and took off his shoes only to have his feet
cushioned by a wine red carpet which covered the floors. The main rooms of the house
still retained Japanese architecture, but some wings were modified to a western style.
“I cannot stand waxed wooden floors. They are dangerous for the elderly as my
father soon realized.” The doctor greeted him in an evening suit.
After bowing Kawano nervously looked around, “Will there be other guests?”
“No, just you and I.” Ono Suzue held his hands behind his back.
Tomoji wondered why his teacher asked him to wear a coat. As if reading his
mind Ono answered, “We are having a western meal which I assume you have never
enjoyed so I wanted you to dress properly. Etiquette is very important.”
Kawano nodded gratefully and entered the large living room.
Ono motioned to the ancestral alter and bowed, “My revered father fell earlier this
year and I could never nurse him fully back to health.”
The young man also bowed, “I’m sorry you lost your father Ono-sensei.”
“He was old and I tried my utmost to relieve his suffering. It is painful to fail as a
physician when one’s patient is a parent.”
They sat at a small round table covered with a thick white cloth and illuminated
by tapered candles. The woman who greeted him earlier appeared with simple dishes
which seemed to Tomoji to be undercooked meat.
“Akemi, once you are done serving us you may leave for the night and do not
return until tomorrow evening.” Ono tore a piece of bread as he commanded the young
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lady. She held the silver tray to her lap and clenched her jaw before walking away
quietly.
Kawano cut the meat and pushed it around his plate and watched the trail of blood
it left behind.
Ono pointed at Tomoji’s plate with his knife, “Eat.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ryuichi and the rest of the Satsuma men were taken to a clearing with a pile of
straw at its center . Injured men with their hands bound behind them were dragged to the
center. They squirmed and struggled from the rough handling as they were piled one
against each other on the straw.
One of the Satsuma officers addressed his men. “Look at these honorable
Aizuppo5. Remember how none of us Imperial troops could sleep and rest because these
bastards kept attacking us at night like cowards?” He kicked one of the prisoners
viciously.
An Aizu warrior with half his face covered by his own dried blood spat, “Go to
hell Satsuma dogs! You are not the samurai of the emperor!” The Satsuma officer
sipped some alcohol from a clay jug one of his men had given to him, “Ah, such brave
words from a man who fights like a monkey in these forests. Please have a drink.” He
poured the sake over the captured men and laughed.
“Come men, these are the ones who resist our army which was honored with the
standard of the emperor and entrusted with his mission. Punish them as you wish. These
men killed our wounded prisoners as well.” He raised his arms and his fellow warriors
from the south jeered in unison. Their cries of hatred seemed to echo in the night air and
frightened Ryuichi who began to believe they had all become beasts.
Ryuichi looked around him at the men and wondered what they were planning. A
man next to him pressed a rock into his hand, “Ryuichi go have some fun.” Some
Satsuma men were already cursing at the prisoners, punching and kicking them. The boy
felt someone push him from behind, “Go, they are the enemy and killed many of us.”
5
Aizu samurai
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Ryuichi rolled the sharp stone in his fingers and threw it at a barely conscious man. The
Aizu samurai opened one swollen eye and laughed defiantly at the boy’s efforts. Some of
the southern samurai threw their small jugs of sake at their victims and cackled as the tied
men tried to avoid the hurled objects.
The Satsuma officer held up his hands to quiet down the crowd, “It is very cold
tonight perhaps we need to start a fire.” His eyes glinted with an unearthly ferocity.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“This silver case is from India,” Ono-sensei presented his student with a cigarette
from the small thin box. Tomoji refused and the older man narrowed his keen eyes
slightly, “You must become acquainted with the ways of the upper class and be prepared
to take your place in society.”
The doctor stood up in his library and walked around, “For instance, you must
always have tailored suits, expensive walking sticks and rare cigars.” He smoothed his
hair back and faked a British accent, “If someone asks if you have read the latest book
translated you say you have done so in English. That is how you show them how modern
and western you are.” Tomoji laughed at the attempt of humor.
“Kawano-san, this is all good advice for someone like you,” He pointed his
cigarette at the seated man. Ono exhaled a plume of smoke and leaned against the
impressive bookshelf along the wall, “Earlier this year I attended a small performance of
The Merchant of Venice starring Yamagawa Sutematsu as Portia. Everyone watched the
show, which was in English. I know they didn’t understand most of it but they all
feigned full comprehension. Do you follow what I am saying?”
“Yes sensei.”
“We live in a world of illusion you see.” He sighed, “Smoking is very repulsive
to me. But to ingratiate oneself with the superiors, one must adopt all their habits. I will
hopefully not be at the preparatory school long Tomoji. They did not know where to
assign me after I graduated from Johns Hopkins.”
Tomoji folded his hands in his lap and sat upright as if he was in class,
“Impressive sensei! But where do you plan to go?” Tomoji’s voice dropped slightly from
his disappointment.
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“It is! After all it is only because I was lucky. They sent me to America when I
was still young. So I picked up the language quickly. I’m still too young. You see we
Japanese give respect to one another after the age of forty really. So they haven’t made
me a professor in the Medical School. Besides they favor those who studied in Germany
and can understand that annoying Dr. Baelz.6” Ono peered at his student with one eye,
“Would you miss me if I left the Preparatory School?”
“I, well, I’m having a hard time keeping up with the class. I was just beginning to
get used to you sensei. Yes I will miss you.”
“Tomoji, I only have a few regular patients from the upper class. I certainly will
not engage in charity work in the public hospitals. But who knows I may find a good,”
young and attractive, “sickly person to keep me occupied.” Ono sucked on the cigarette.
Tomoji’s eyes were the shape of lotus petals and so large and soft. My student has such a
kind and innocent visage. His eyes followed the smoke which curled in the room,
“Kawano do you know the properties of morphine?”
“Yes, it reduces pain in patients.” Tomoji was anxious to be correct.
Ono Suzue walked across the room like a tiger on the prowl, “Have you ever tried
morphine in its native form? If you have not then you mustn’t use it on your patients
without grasping its full effect. Doctors are themselves their own best test subjects.”
Tomoji’s frown won a feral smile from his teacher, “Would you like to try some?
Out of concern for my patients, I retain some of their prescribed opium to prevent them
from becoming addicted. This is not the trash which is smoked by the Chinese in Osaka
or Yokohama but the highest quality used for medicine.7”
Kawano leaned back in the large leather seat and watched Ono bring out his gold
pocket watch and flick it open and shut. The golden caught the light and the object
flashed with every slight movement. Tomoji watched the repetitive gesture. He began to
see the yellow motion in his own mind and was unaware how close Ono was to him. It
was if his mind had played a trick and the watch seemed to move without the aid of its
owner. The doctor ran his thumb and index finger along Tomoji’s chiseled chin, “This is
6
Baelz, Erwin O. E. von, 1849-1913. (translated from the German by Eden and Cedar Paul).Awakening
Japan: the diary of a German Doctor. New York, The Viking press, 1932.
7
To learn more about the government’s efforts to regulate opium please visit
http://www.shinsengumihq.com/unmaskmeijigovopium.html . Japan also trafficked and monopolized the
opium market in Taiwan, which it acquired after the Sino-Japanese war in 1895.
- 14 -
part of your education.” Startled, the student pulled his face away from the caress and
looked up at Ono who smiled kindly.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It happened quickly. The prisoners were threatened with drawn swords to huddle
close together on the straw. A long rope was tied around them, preventing them from
crawling away. Someone brought a torch and a large jug of oil. The bound men were
already soaked from the sake and the extra fuel poured on them made the numerous
torches thrown on the dried straw almost unnecessary.
The howls of pain were loud but Ryuichi seemed not to hear. He watched the
black profile of one man against the gold flames. The figure in the fire opened his mouth
wide as if to inhale the heat. His teeth seemed like fangs as his flesh began to melt.
Many struggled endlessly with their feet and legs kicking. The boy looked at the awful
sight as if under a spell. His pupils darted about to see how each man reacted differently
towards the incredible pain. Strong arms embraced him from behind and a hand covered
his eyes, “Ryuichi don’t look.”
“Papa!” The boy turned only to see his father grab a rifle and shoot into the fire at
a man who was still alive and screaming even as the inferno began to consume his torso
and neck. As Ryuichi’s father kept firing round after round into the terrible mass of
writhing flesh the Satsuma soldiers opened a path for Choshu’s feared leader Miura
Goro8. The man snatched the rifle from Ono Satoshi, “Enough, don’t waste your
ammunition on these dogs. Look they are gone.”
Ryuichi looked as well and saw that some legs and fingers were black and curling
in the bonfire. Many heads were thrown back or hung forward. The smell became
unbearable and he buried his face in his father’s waist. Smoke began to assault the eyes
of the perpetrators and spectators. They walked away from the burning heap of their own
evil act.
8
“…garrulous old General Miura [Miura Goro]---best remembered as the honoured perpetrator of the Queen
Min [Queen of Korea] massacre---has recorded how Satsuma men celebrated victory with a jolly rollicking
bonfire of live Aizu prisoners.” (Calman 172) (original source: Miura Goro (1925) Kanju Shogun Kaisoroku, Seikyo-sha)
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That night, the Satsuma samurai was kept awake by the sobs and unconscious
terrors of his young son. The warrior kept the boy close to his chest and prayed for
forgiveness from his dead wife. It was a mistake to bring our son into this battlefield.
But what was I to do? Leaving Ryuichi behind would make him an orphan. It is Ryuichi
who reminds me to stay alive and live for the future.
~~~~~~~~~~
1883: Tokyo
Akemi entered the doctor’s home two hours before she knew he would be home.
She quickly went into his room and gasped at the sight of Tomoji sprawled naked under
the sheets of the luxurious western style bed. His skin was tinted pink from the deep red
curtains which attempted to block out the sun.
A cloth soaked in cold water pulled Kawano out of his slumber. Sensations of the
previous night still drugged him. The taste of Ono’s mouth, his tongue exploring his
neck and the friction of their hard fleshing rubbing against each other made him smile
with pleasure.
“Please sir, wake up. You should leave now.” Akemi was embarrassed to touch a
naked man but her fear overrode her better judgment. “The master usually wants me to
tidy up his room before he returns.”
Tomoji moaned and opened his eyes to see the young woman above his own face.
“I can’t get enough. It’s wonderful. Give me more of it Suzue.” He tried to pull the
covers over his head and that was when Akemi saw his bandaged arm. She touched the
joint between the arm and forearm gently and the sensation caused Kawano to sit up.
Kawano tried to keep his eyelids from drooping, “Ah” he slowly remember that before
Suzue took him there was a sharp pain in his arm.
Akemi gathered up the young man’s clothes which was strewn on the floor and
tossed them on the bed. “That is awful!” She pointed at his arm with a shaking finger.
Akemi thought she was Suzue’s only one.
“Awful? Woman, I was merely trying the opium and you mustn’t speak of this
elsewhere. It would ruin Ono-sensei.” Tomoji felt shy when he saw her eyes on his
toned chest. Women always intimidated him.
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“Kawano-san that is not opium.” Akemi pointed to his arm and looked away
with, “Please dress and leave before he returns.”
Kawano touched his arm, “This is morphine,” he rubbed his head, “I was
confused. C-can’t remember but I tried opium first too---I think. You are just a servant
girl in his household. How would you know Ono-sensei would not be happy to see me
still here?” In his bed.
Akemi looked over her shoulder to the door, “May the gods guard over you. He
is not what you think. Consider yourself fortunate if you can distance yourself from
him.”
Tomoji began to dress quickly, “Distance myself? He is my teacher.”
~~~~~~~~~~
“Well, why have you called me here?” Dr. Ono crossed his long legs as he sat
across his supervisor’s large desk.
“Ono-sensei, I was informed that Tokyo University will not be hiring any more
instructors. It is likely you will have to continue here----“
The young man carefully took off his glasses and put them inside his breast
pocket, “Nonsense. Surely, they will not let me languish here amongst the stupid
students attempting to claw their way into the university.”
Nakanishi wove his fingers together and leaned forward on his elbows, “You
must understand that our country is in great need of doctors---“
“More reason to hire me as a professor in the university then!” Ono sneered.
“Exactly, however the policy seems to be that the O-yatoi, foreign professors, will
take on more students and classes will become larger which means they will need more
candidates drawn from our division. It was not my decision to force you to remain here
in the preparatory school.”
“Of course not Nakanishi-sensei. You are powerless in all matters,” Ono laughed
derisively. He lit a cigarette.
“Please no smoking in my office.” The older man said evenly.
Ono tossed it into his superior’s cup of tea, “Tell me Nakanishi-san where did you
get that wall clock. It is very beautiful. I wish to acquire one for my home.”
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Nakanishi looked at the timekeeper on the wall next to the crucifix. Even the
image of Christ on the cross would not suppress his growing anger at Suzue’s behavior.
He had enough of the impudence, “I told you already in the past. It was ordered from
Switzerland.”
“Beautiful,” Ono looked at the man carefully.
“Yes it is.”
“Nakanishi-sensei, will you be attending the opening of the Rokumeikan at the
end of November?” The young doctor lowered his voice. He detached his gold pocket
watch from the chain, checked the time and closed it on the wooden table.
The older doctor looked at the bright timekeeper, “My wife and I have certainly
looked forward to this grand event. She has even purchased and altered a western dress.
All the officials have planned everything.”
“But you will not be going.” Ono tapped the gold watch to get the man’s
attention.
Nakanishi folded his arms and sat back in his chair and enjoyed how the light
moved across the flat gold surface of the watch, “I suppose not.”
“Then it would not be an imposition if I request your invitations.”
After looking through the drawer of his desk, Nakanishi finally pulled out the two
large envelopes, which were emblazoned with the Imperial seal. He handed them slowly
to Ono.
“Thank you sensei. I am grateful for your generosity. May I leave early today?”
“Ofcourse Ono-san.”
~~~~~~~~~~
Akemi paced in the bedroom for a while and scurried out of sight when Tomoji
pulled off the sheets to get up. She began to check the cleanliness of the estate and went
to the front of the house to pick up the mail. As Akemi left the kitchen, she made a
mental note to order more rice and walked down the hall back towards her master’s
bedroom. A tall shadow stopped her.
“I told you not to come back until the evening. Why are you here?”
- 18 -
The fragile woman took several steps back and bowed, “I was not disobeying you
Ono-sensei. I forgot to check the dried goods in the kitchen. So I came back early
today—“
He stepped in closer, grabbed her arm and pushed her against the wall, “Akemi,
my instructions are to be followed at all times. If not then you are being disobedient.
Stop acting like a little fool.” The doctor’s thumb squeezed into the inside of Akemi’s
elbow where she was given an injections in the past.
“I’m sorry. Sorry.” She looked away from the handsome face she once admired
and loved. The woman tried to make herself small. If only she could disappear from his
unrelenting gaze.
Tomoji stood near the door of his bedroom and heard Ono menacing Akemi.
Even with the fear so apparent in her voice, Kawano still assumed that his sensei
probably had good reason to be so harsh to his lone servant.
“Leave now. Do not come back here until tomorrow. Never once believe that our
past relationship can be used to manipulate me Akemi. You are utterly worthless.” Ono
continued to squeeze her arm and she tried to writhe away from his grasp. She finally
broke free and ran out of the large house without looking back.
Ono-sensei’s foot-steps made Tomoji turn away from the door. He put on his
coat as the doctor entered the room, “You are still here?”
“My apologies, I woke up not too long ago. I’ll leave right away.” Tomoji
noticed that Ono’s expression was calm and pleasant as if he was not the same man who
reprimanded his servant.
Suzue sat on the bed and pulled his student to him, “No, stay with me another
night. We can go visit the museum before dinner.”
Tomoji touched his arm and Ono asked, “Did you remove the bandage?”
“Yes, but what was it for? Did you use a needle?”
“It counteracts the opium.” The doctor added nonchalantly. “I always burn the
needle over a flame. Don’t worry.”
- 19 -
Tomoji raised his eyebrown, “No, morphine, does not have properties which
counteract opium. Their properties are similar. 9”
Suzue quickly countered, “You have been studying I see! Correct, it is not
exactly morphine. I was trying to give you a comparison so that you could comprehend.
It is something slightly different.”
“Why do you burn the needle sensei?” Tomoji looked at his arm again.
“Burning it removes impurities.”
Ono saw the disbelief in Tomoji’s eyes and rubbed his shoulder, “You are my
student. Not a pet rabbit I use for experiments.” He leaned in and kissed the young man
ravenously. Tomoji closed his eyes to the hot sensation of Suzue sweeping his mouth
hungrily, I do not doubt you Ono-sensei.
~~~~~~~~~~
A small fire crackled at the center of a group of sleeping men. Ono Ryuichi faced
his father’s back and inched in closer for warmth and reassurance. Their camp was a bit
farther from the large group of other Satsuma men. It was Ryuichi’s father who
requested that he and his brigade sleep on the perimeter as a security measure but the
truth was he was tired of the premature victory celebrations, which went on night after
night. The samurai from the south had been given sake and dried fish as a reward for
their work and slept like logs after the drinking bouts.
The hum of night insects faded away as a wail could be heard. Shrieks of panic
cut through the air and Ryuichi twisted his father’s shirt in his fist. Satoshi sat up and
looked at his son, “You know what to do Ryuichi! If I don’t come back to get you by
morning go to the Choshu camp commanded by Yamagata Aritomo. 10”
A commander cried in the distance, “Night sortie! They’re everywhere! It’s the
Demon Kanbei…” the clash of metal on metal and gunshots awakened all the men
sleeping near the Ono father and son. Satoshi secured his sword in his waistband and
9
I was horrified to read in many texts that morphine was used to treat opium addiction or taken in combination with
opium as a recreational drug in the 19th century.
10
“Yamagata Aritomo…In the campaign of 1868-69, he was in command of the loyalist forces which defeated the
Aizu clan troops in northern Japan.” (Borton 92)
- 20 -
grabbed a rifle. Out of the corner of his eye Satoshi saw his ten-year-old boy run to the
hiding place he had prepared.
As Ryuichi headed deeper into the forest he listened for the small stream to guide
him to safety. The gentle murmuring water was hard to detect from the wave of screams
behind him. The young man dove into a bush when he saw a mass of shadows creep
towards the large Satsuma camp. If they are with the kangun, Imperial Army, they should
be bearing torches thought Ryuichi. He pressed his body down to the floor and watched
as the black warriors moved collectively together silently like an enormous beast. Gentle
silver rays from the shy moon outlined spears, drawn swords and rifles. This was another
large group of raiding Aizu fighters preparing to finish off the stragglers no doubt.
Ryuichi was torn with indecision. I should run back and warn father? But I am so close
to the stream.
He held his breath and regained his bearing. As Ryuichi scurried down a slope
towards the stream he tripped on a root jutting from the forest floor. Ryuichi’s cry was
cut short as his arm wrapped around his head during the downward fall. At the bottom of
the slope he spat out the dirt and leaves from his mouth and crawled deeper into the
darkness and saw the outline of a large boulder near the stream. Safe! He crept inside
the rocky crevice and waited. Ryuichi’s heartbeat slowed as time passed. Overhead the
fighting intensified and the familiar voices from Satsuma samurai screamed, “Retreat and
regroup, there are too many!” An intense barrage of bullets blasted overhead followed by
low moans. Satoshi’s son covered his ears and closed his eyes even in the enveloping
night as he heard more blood curdling cries.
“Fools! Don’t shoot you’re killing our own men! Hold your fire!” Another
commander called out. The Satsuma men panicked and continued to discharge their
weapons in all directions.
Ryuichi heard heavy footsteps crush the dry leaves and small branches right
above him on the slope. Father? Is the fighting over? Why won’t you come and get me
now? Ryuichi nearly called out but hesitated.
A deep voice rumbled, “Jiro, I cannot believe you had the time to collect trophies.
We had to hit them fast and hard. You don’t seem like the type to want to---“
- 21 -
“These are not trophies Kanbei. I do not write letters. This is my message to my
enemies.” A tall samurai with unkempt hair looked down towards the stream below,
“Kanbei, did you give the order to retreat?”
The famed commander of Aizu troops nodded, “Yes. What do you plan to do
with….. those?”
Yamaguchi Jiro, flicked the blood from of his damaged sword and scanned the
ink black forest, “This is a mountain path. I’ll leave them here. When their
reinforcements come they’ll see the bodies in the camp and these.” He dropped several
bundles on the floor and they landed with a thud on the thick layer of leaves. One rolled
down the slope and stopped near the boulder where Ryuichi crouched in the darkness.
“I would offer them to my dead Shinsengumi 11 brothers but even they have no
resting place yet.” Yamaguchi inhaled the brisk night air heavy with blood.
“How did you collect so many?” Even Kanbei, a consummate warrior, was
shaken by the awful sight. He wondered how Jiro managed to drag so many with him.
“Jiro”, was the third name of this samurai. He laughed slightly, “They rely on
their rifles which are utterly useless at close range against my blade.”
Ryuichi began to breathe again after the two men on the slope left. The sounds
from the camp grew quiet. It’s over he prayed. Ryuichi put both his hands in front of
him as he was about to crawl forward but stopped. The moon’s rays pierced the clouds
and illuminated the area in front of the boy. It had fallen from Jiro’s hand.
Tangled hair.
Wide, partially rolled back glassy eyes.
Gaping mouth.
Ryuichi froze and stared at the round object before him.
His legs grew numb from sitting in the same position in the small rock cave. For
hours Ryuichi simply sat still and silently moved his lips as he addressed the cold head.
11
The Shinsengumi (Shinsen gumi “New Selection Group”) were a group of swordsmen from various social
backgrounds (ronin, fighters, sons of merchants, scholars, farmers etc) who were sanctioned by Aizu-han (the domain
given the assignment of protecting Kyoto) to suppress political opposition to the weakening Tokugawa shogunate. The
Shinsengumi or Wolves of Mibu, as they were disparagingly called, responded to the violence and assassinations
committed by radical ronin in the city with their swords. The group was active in Kyoto during the 1860s and took to
the field in Toba-Fushimi, Nagarayema, Aizu-han and Hakodate (Hokkaido). The survivors eventually surrendered in
1868 at Hakodate. Labels such as “heroes” and “villains” have been applied to the Shinsengumi.
- 22 -
Your mouth is open, sir. Do you wish to speak? Why don’t you close your eyes
and stop looking at me. Please stop looking at me. You cannot turn away now can you
because your neck is not attached to your body? Your tongue is hanging out touching the
earth.
When dawn finally arrived to push back the terror of the night, Ono Satoshi ran
towards the stream. After the attack, he spent time moving the injured and preparing
nametags for the dead. He was wounded slightly but there was only one thing on his
mind. The samurai froze when he saw a mound of heads in the middle of the path. Their
long hair was tired together in a knot. Blood pooled under each neck stump. Each had a
different expression of fear, anger and disbelief at their sudden departure from life.
Satoshi inhaled and ran down the slope. When Satoshi found his son staring at a pale
head on the floor, he shook the boy several times.
Finally Ryuichi turned to the man, “I’m so happy” he smiled and pointed to the face on
the floor, “It’s not you.” Ryuichi’s fingers caressed his father’s neck lovingly. Satoshi
embraced his son and expected Ryuichi to cry. But he did not.
~~~~~~~~~~
1883: Tokyo
As they left the Tokyo Education Museum where Ono-sensei had Tomoji observe
the internal mechanisms of clocks, the two stopped at the guest book.
“Ah, Inoue Kaoru was here. Tomoji, come look at the signature. Do you know
who he is?” Suzue loomed over the book excitedly.
“Minister of Foreign Affairs.”
“You and I shall meet him and the Emperor at the end of November at the
Rokumeikan,” Suzue waited to see Tomoji’s reaction.
“Impossible sensei. I did not get an invitation. It is only for the highest level
officials and dignitaries---“
“Our invitations are in my desk Tomoji. At another time I shall take you to a
tailor and you will acquire a new suit, gloves and shoes.” Suzue was pleased to see
Tomoji so surprised. “But remember everything I showed you today.”
- 23 -
“Ofcourse.”
“That is a good restaurant. Let me check to see if there is a table available. Wait
for me here.” Suzue crossed the street. Tomoji’s eyes followed his every movement,
delighting in every step Suzue was making as if he was a rare beast in a cage for
observation.
“Sir,” Tomoji looked down to see the petite Akemi.
She chewed her lip and tried to hid behind Tomoji, “I apologize for this afternoon,
it was improper for me to enter the bedroom and wake you.”
“Akemi, have you been following Ono-sensei and I?”
“No, no, she said frantically, I came here because I needed someone to help me
write a letter home. There is a scholar who rents a small store nearby. I also need to send
money to my parents in the countryside. I apologize again Kawano-san.”
“Are you all right Akemi?” He watched her large brown eyes dart about.
“Please don’t tell Ono---“
“Akemi, I did not tell him anything. I’ll not mention I met you here either.” She
is terrified of Ono-sensei. She looked around quickly and fled like pursued prey.
Tomoji looked through the restaurant’s window and saw Ono gesturing for him to
come inside. As they sat and waited, Suzue looked out the window and spoke
measuredly, “Tomoji, something that all men must learn is not to be weak towards
women. I enjoyed Akemi once and now the little mouse pretends she runs my
household.”
“I’m sorry to hear that Ono-sensei.”
Suzue sipped from the glass of red-wine, “I used to have another servant,
Densuke, but but she was the cause of his termination. Now, She wants me to herself I
suppose. So recently I gave her a large sum of money. A token to sever our relationship
but she doesn’t want to leave.”
Tomoji decided not to mention details of his encounters with the maid, “She
seems harmless.”
“So would a small but poisonous snake Tomoji. The women in Yoshiwara are
infected with syphilis and other afflications. Akemi seemed pure to me. But enough
about her, I want you to study hard and become a prodigy like Mori Ogai.”
- 24 -
Kawano’s frown invited an explanation by Suzue, “He was the youngest in Japan
to earn a medical license. I want you to be like him Tomoji. You can do it.”
“Do you think I am that bright sensei? I try but sometimes all the terms are very
confusing.” Tomoji had never been praised in such a way before.
“You can, and I’ll help you.”
The rest of the evening was like a blur of color on a painter’s palette. There was
the delicious food, wine and the heat of Suzue’s body on top of his. It would be hard to
return to class and pretend he was just another student.
~~~~~~~~~~
“Papa, why are we here?” Ryuichi looked up at his father who was distracted.
Satoshi did not hear the question. The Satsuma samurai furled his brows and
continued to question the monk with a low voice, “Is it true the bodies were brought here
to Myokouku Temple 12 ? That is against our orders. How dare you defy us!”
The bald holy man began to sweat and stammered, “Sir please, it has been weeks.
Their bodies were left out in the open for the birds and beasts for too long.”
Ryuichi’s father looked around and saw that the two other Imperial soldiers who
accompanied him were not paying attention. He whispered, “Revered one, I will pretend
that the bodies of those boys are not here. Whatever it is you must do, do so quickly. I
shall leave now.” The monk nodded and the Satsuma samurai looked around the small
altar room of the temple for his son.
The boy’s sandals made crunching noises on the layer of new snow. He walked
to a shed where he saw two teenage samurai standing guard.
“Go away.” One of them ordered.
Ryuichi kept walking in towards them. His father was sent on this errand to see if
indeed the peasants had brought down the bodies of the Byakkotai13, members of the
12
Myokokuji or Myokoku-ji.
“Byakkotai...a battalion of …samurai youths…became separated from the main body. They made their
way to a hill [Mt. Iimori], saw the castle shrouded in smoke, thought all was lost and committed suicide. One
survived.” (notes by Craig in Shiba 17) “Yoshida Isoji (1818-1884) 5th son of Furukawa Jizaemon of
Komagasaka Village, Iwashiro Province. ..During the Boshin War, he felt pity in seeing the bodies of the
13
- 25 -
White Tiger Brigade, from Mt. Iimori. Clearly, there was a reason why these young Aizu
warriors were guarding a simple shed behind the temple.
“Did you hear me kid? I said get out of here.” He shoved Ryuichi back.
The boy stared back, his lips pressed into a straight line and pushed them aside.
The boy from Satsuma put his hand on the short sword at his waist and they let him pass
upon seeing his threat. Their swords were confiscated by the Imperial army. Ryuichi
went into the dark room and saw many thin bundles wrapped in straw mats on the floor.
He could not count to see how many bodies were there but it was clear that not much was
left after exposure to the elements. He sniffed the air, curious to taste the stench of
corpses. The boy’s keen sense of smell has already remembered that rotting flesh has a
similar sweet scent of decaying fruit. The air was heavy with sandalwood incense and
Ryuichi frowned. He would not experience that perfume of death he first encountered at
the bonfire. After that night his father tried to shield him from the carnage. Occasionally
he would see a corpse in the forest, twisted like branches of a fallen tree, or a putrefying
bloated body worshipped by hungry flies. Ryuichi stooped down to touch the head of dry
hair which was exposed. He wanted to see if it was still the same as his own.
“Little bastard!” One of the teenagers grabbed his middle and dragged him
outside. The other punched Ryuichi.
Satsuma samurai and Ryuichi’s father rushed out of the temple after hearing the
commotion and quickly separated the boys.
Ryuichi tried not to cry as he looked at his father and then at the boys and pointed,
“I just went to see the bodies in the store room! They are here father!”
The Satsuma samurai moved towards the shed and the two young Aizu warriors
blocked their path with out stretched arms.
Ryuichi’s father yelled, “Halt, this is sacred ground. I have questioned the abbot
already. We must not waste our time. Let’s go to another temple men. Move! It’s an
order.”
As they left the temple, Ryuichi looked back at the two boys and smiled.
Byakkotai samurai decaying on Mt. Iimori, so he took their remains and buried them at Myokokuji Temple.
However, the authorities of the new government heard of this and rebuked him, making him exhume the
bodies and return them to rot on Mt. Iimori. (translated by Mr. Armen Bakalian
Source:http://baragaki.fc2web.com/aizukanjinbutsu/jinyosida.htm)”
- 26 -
- 27 -
- 28 -
- 29 -
The next morning, during the noon hour Nakanishi-sensei found an old friend at
the doorway of his office. A tan skinned man with a moustache and wearing a police
uniform asked, “May I come in Nakanishi-sensei?”
“Certainly not! You always bring morbid news Fujita-san.” Nakanishi smiled at
the well-built man, good he seemed to have put on some weight after that bout with his
ulcers.
“Correct, and depressing gifts. Today, a young woman was dragged up in a net
by fishermen working the Sumida River. Usually it takes a couple of days for drowned
people to float to the surface. But by then their bodies would be bloated.” He smoothed
his moustache and looked down. Fatigue was written across his features, “The
University’s medical school already has the body of the strangulation victim so I though
you might like this one. Her condition is still good.”
“And no family is here to claim her?” The doctor eagerly questioned.
“Well we fortunately found neighbors who identified her as ‘Akemi’ and they
said her parents are good for nothing people. They sold her. She still insists on
supporting them. So I believe it would be better to use her body.”
“The students will be uneasy to perform an autopsy on a woman so either I or
Ono-sensei will have to take care of the process and acquire her organs for preservation.
Perhaps we should keep her for one more day and allow her parents to come for her?”
Nakanishi-sensei watched his friend rub his eyes.
“No, I went into her rented room and found her family address. They live too far
and it would be at least four days for them to get into the city. Besides many families
reject kin who finish themselves in such a away. I also read her suicide note.” He
tightened his jaw. “Nakanishi, I’m afraid that Ono-sensei cannot perform the autopsy.
You see, in her letter she mentioned that the reason for suicide was due to her love for a
doctor named Ono. I wonder if you just mentioned the same man.” Although I already
checked, there is currently only one Ono who holds a medical license in Tokyo.
“This is horrible.” Nakanishi placed both his hands on the table.
“It is. But I barely have time to look into this matter. I’ll be assigned to be one of
Inoue Kaoru’s bodyguard for this ridiculous Rokumeikan dance hall. Are you going
- 30 -
Nakanishi?” Sargeant Fujita found himself a bit disturbed that he had become so inured
to his job that he could shift the conversation so quickly.
“Certainly!” Nakanishi rummaged in his work desk drawer and stopped himself,
“Where did I put them?” Nakanishi paused, “Now I recall. I gave them to Ono-sensei.
But, why would I do that? My wife will kill me. She has a beautiful dress for the
occasion.”
The police officer waved his hand, “Back to Ono-sensei, does he have a lover by
the name Akemi?”
“I have no idea. Ono has just started working here. I’ve never been to his house.”
“Tell me doctor, when someone kills themselves by slitting their arm and jumping
in the river. What part of the arm do they cut?”
“The wrist. Many resort to just the wrist. Why?”
“Why would Akemi cut here” He pointed to the inside of the elbow, “and her
wrist. They were deep gashes. Slices of flesh were removed.”
“That is strange.” Agreed the physician.
“You want strange sensei? Her blood was on a cutting board in the kitchen.”
The old doctor’s mouth hung open, “Why would someone committing suicide
need to do that in the kitchen? Or cut themselves on a board for that matter?”
Gorou shook his head, “It does not make any sense does it? I keep saying that to
myself but maybe she was not in the right state of mind.”
“Fujita-san, Ono Suzue will be holding class within a few moments. Would you
like to ask him some questions?”
Sargeant Fujita stood up and straightened the front of his uniform, “I never
question people right away. Especially not when I’m wearing this,” he patted his dark
blue uniform, “It makes them nervous. Give me Ono’s address.”
Nakanishi quickly copied the home location on a card and handed it to Fujita,
“Shall I show him the body?”
“Sure why not. Would a respectable doctor kill such a simple woman? It makes
perfect sense that her unrequited affections drove her to this.” Fujita leaned on the
entrance of the office, “Perfect sense” Such a weak woman had the nerve of steel to cut
- 31 -
her arm so deep in not one but two places, “How could this little woman threaten a man
of his status? Nakanishi, as you examine her body please check something for me.”
“Yes?”
“See if she is pregnant.”
“Consider it done.”
Fujita stopped at a low bookshelf by the door. He picked up a sheet of paper and
rubbed it with his index finger and thumb, “Nice paper. Better than what they give us at
the station.”
“The University ordered it. Fujita-san, have you been drinking again?” Nakanishi
grew concerned. He interpreted the odd question as a sign of inebriation.
The officer looked back with his sharp eyes, “I only do so when I am under
stress.” He rubbed his face. Fujita was used to having his friend and at times personal
doctor make such forward questions. “You know how to reach me at the station right?”
“I have your card in my desk Fujita-san,” Nakanishi assured him.
Down the hall, Ono-sensei walked alongside Tomoji discussing the day’s lesson.
Fujita quickly ran down the stairs and looked up at the two men above him from the
landing. So young and successful. Ono-sensei seems to be too proper to have an illicit
relationship with such a woman. Did he get her pregnant? If so, why not pay her and
leave. Why would he kill her? There is no motive. He assumed the young man looking at
Ono full of admiration was a favorite student.
~~~~~~~~~~
“Tomoji, go home. I need to stay here and work.” Suzue looked out the window
as he spoke, avoiding eye contact with his student.
“Sensei, are you all right?”
“Certainly, however I need to lose myself in work. This is all…very shocking to
me. Akemi was with me for a long time. I must deal with this my own way.” Ono kept
his back turned.
Kawano moved in closer but Suzue held up his hand, “No, I am all right. Here
take my key to the house. Study in the library. I will go on a walk and return to the lab
tonight.”
- 32 -
The young man gathered his writing implements, notebooks and looked back once
more to his lover before leaving. Earlier, he nearly stopped breathing when he watched
Nakanishi pull back the cloth. Akemi’s left arm had two very deep slashes, no gashes as
if someone dug into her flesh with a blade. He watched Suzue place both hands on the
table to keep himself standing upright.
“Ono-sensei did you know her?” Nakanishi looked at the handsome face, “She
wrote a suicide note mentioning the name Ono.”
“She is Akemi, a servant at my household.” Suzue’s composure was broken,
“Why Akemi?” He gasped, “She was a good hardworking girl. Akemi prepared my
favorite meal.”
“Ono-sensei, I will attend to her body and harvest organs we can use for the sake
of science. Then I shall see to it that her remains be honored.”
Suzue bowed, one of the rare occasions he showed respect to his superior,
“Akemi is a poor woman. Her family is unworthy of her affections. I shall pay for full
Buddhist rites to ease her soul.”
“You are a true gentleman Suzue. It is appropriate that you send her to a better
place.”
~~~~~~~~~~
Tomoji closed his textbook and placed his head on Suzue’s large desk in the
study. The large house was eerily quiet without Akemi. He had to try and stop thinking
about the servant woman. Obviously she was infatuated with my teacher and her actions
cannot be blamed on Ono. She probably realized that Ono-sensei cares for me. Tomoji
had a sudden craving for that substance Suzue shared with him nightly. He was always
too lost in the opium to notice where Suzue kept the needle and bottle.
“Where is it?” Tomoji shook the drawers. “Locked! Damn.” Tomoji held his
body for a while, realizing that he was shaking slightly. The medical student wiped the
beads of sweat from his forehead with his sleeve, “Why do I need it so much?”
He tried the bottom drawer and sifted through the neatly stacked contents. Ono’s
student read a private letter. A correspondence was written on behalf of Nitobe Inazo for
admission to Johns Hopkins University Economics and Political Science Department.
- 33 -
Tomoji bit his lip out of jealousy and tossed the paper back in the drawer. The
student’s eyes darted about the room as his mind raced. Now angry, he pulled books
from the shelves, checked the ornate boxes and valuable items in the room. He felt a
sudden chill in the room and collapsed on the floor.
~~~~~~~~~~
“Old bastard must have admired her body before opening her up.” Suzue growled
as he looked up at the lit window of the building. Akemi’s firm round breasts and plump
thighs would cause any man to pause. He had been waiting for hours well into the night
for Nakanishi to finish removing Akemi’s organs. Ono tossed his cigarette into the
puddle as he saw his superior leave through the front of the building. Suzue quickly
dashed into the lab with his keys ready. The doctor held a lit candle to the lines of new
jars full of preserving solutions. He saw a jar with a liver and the right date.
“I found you Akemi.” Ono smiled and quickly prepared his work area while
keeping the candle far from the window. He only needed a small slice of her liver to
prepare a slide and gather the information he needed. After acquiring a paper-thin slice
he placed it in a container with wax. The process would require many hours before he
could transfer the sample to glass slides and check his hypothesis under a microscope.
“Akemi, do not call me a cold man from your new place in hell,” he looked down
at her body, which lay in a simple wooden coffin lined with straw prepared to absorb any
liquid which would flow from her orifices. Suzue leaned down and opened the white
kimono Nakanishi or the police placed on her. Those policemen should have let her keep
the red on black kimono she wore! Now she looks so common in white. “Nakanishisensei is such a neat man, these stitches are flawless,” he smoothed his bare hands down
her cold chest and torso. Ono sniffed her neck and shoulder where he often bit her during
their rough mating. After closing the front of her kimono he reverently pushed the cotton
further up her nostrils, concealing them from sight. He kissed her forehead, “You were
of use to me after all,” and pressed his lips to her cold mouth running his tongue along
her icy teeth, “You smell and taste like the Sumida River. Sleep well my little mouse.”
Ono checked his pocket watch and cursed, “I am late, Tomoji must be attended to.” He
quickly cleaned the lab and made his way home.
~~~~~~~~~~
- 34 -
Kawano’s dry lips quivered and he shook slightly on the carpeted floor. The
student’s furled brows betrayed the strange phantasmagoric visions he saw behind his
closed eyelids. He floated into the main room of the house and saw Ono seated next to a
low bed. An old man looked up the doctor as he struggled to breathe, “Son, I will meet
your mother soon.”
“Father please preserve your energy.” Ono leaned in closer.
“Suzue, you have made me proud. So proud. All the years I waited for your
return from the west were worthwhile,” tears began to stream down his wrinkled face.
Ono whispered, “I saw how hard you worked to raise me by yourself. Everyday I
was abroad, I worried for your safety especially during the Satsuma Rebellion14.” He
placed his hand gently on his father’s chest.
“I have committed the unforgivable act of killing my brothers on behalf of the
Emperor that year.” Suzue’s father pressed his eyes closed.
“Father, please don’t dampen your spirits. I know Saigo Takamori forged the
Imperial Edict which was used to justify the destruction of Aizu. Is this what we call
karma? Just as Satsuma destroyed Aizu. It was Aizu samurai who helped prevent
Saigo’s march on Tokyo.”
The patient’s eyes flew open and he mustered all his strength to form angry
words, “Suzue, you must never say that.”
“Even if it is the truth? The edict ordering the military punishment of Aizu was a
forgery. I heard this secret on the Iwakura Mission in 1871 with my own ears.”
“Saigo Takamori is the greatest man of Satsuma. He must always be honored
son. We live in a world of illusion you see. Fabrication may serve a greater purpose.”
He put his gnarled hand on top of his son’s, “We must try to revere people’s good
qualities.”
“I understand father. What you did during the Boshin War and during the
Southwest Rebellion was for the Emperor. Is he an illusion too?”
14
The Satsuma Rebellion or Seinan War (1876-1877) was led by Saigo Takamori, who was a major figure
in the Boshin war of 1868. He disagreed with the new government’s politics and returned to his domain.
Saigo marched on Tokyo with his samurai followers and was defeated by the Imperial troops which ironically
consisted of his Satsuma brethren, his relatives and also volunteer Aizu samurai. During the 1860s Aizu
and Satsuma were actually allies in Kyoto. Satsuma later conspired with Choshu against Aizu and the
shogunate, and in doing so catalyzed the downfall of the weakened Tokugawa government.
- 35 -
His father opened his mouth, “The Emperor’s sacred person is the same as the
body of Japan. He is not an illusion. Our lord is the beating heart of Nippon.” He
watched as his son’s needle found a place in his forearm.
“Please rest now father.” Ono watched his father exhale. The good son checked
his father’s quickly fading pulse. Honored patriarch, if our Emperor has a body than he
is mortal just like you and I. We have made him a god to whom we have offered blood
sacrifices through many battles.
Tomoji watched the nightmare without the ability to move or speak it is as if his
body had become rooted to the floor. Ono’s pet felt his throat tighten as his attempt to
scream became a struggle to breath.
“Tomoji!” Suzue returned home to see his study ransacked by his own student.
The physician suppressed his rage only to concentrate on reviving the unconscious man.
Ono unbuttoned Tomoji’s shirt and massaged the young man’s chest as he felt for a
pulse. Kawano began to kick violently and shake.
“Tomoji, it’s all right. I’m here for you.” Ono smoothed back the hair which
clung to the student’s sweat covered face.
“Sensei” he breathed, “Sorry, I was looking for it. I need it to feel wonderful.”
Ono had anticipated his pet’s need and had prepared the needle. The young man
tried to focus on the needle and suddenly grabbed the doctor’s wrist, “No, no”. Tomoji
remembered what he saw in his vision. The needle holds poison.
“Tomoji, I’ll give you a choice. Do you want it?” Ono smiled because he knew
the answer.
A brief look of confusion passed across the student’s handsome face, “No,” he
looked away, “Yes, please.” Tomoji sighed as the familiar euphoria spread throughout his
body as the needle penetrated his vein.
“Suzue, do you have another beloved? You wrote a letter for Inazo…” Tomoji’s
speech became slurred.
“Nonsense! Tomoji you are my only pet rabbit. Teachers are required to write
letters all the time. You’ve been very disobedient to go through my desk.”
- 36 -
Suzue dragged him to the bed and removed the rest of Tomoji’s clothing so he
could enjoy the young man later. It was always more pleasurable to mate with one who
seemed dead thought Ono. That way I can only be concerned with my needs.
Ono quickly unlocked one of the drawers of his desk and opened his leather
bound notebook. Under the notes he kept on Akemi he saw that indeed in her case it took
nearly a few weeks for her to experience similar symptoms without the dosage. Tomoji
was clearly more dependent. It was a shame Akemi became so paranoid she struggled
and resisted to the extent he had stop his tests. At least she proved to him that personality
can be altered with enough use of the drug. She changed from a calm beautiful woman to
a small nervous rodent. He chuckled and closed the log.
~~~~~~~~~~
A large man sat on the floor and ran his hand across his lip and jaw. He enjoyed
the early morning shave but regretted having to lose a moustache. The dirty kimono was
infested with fleas and he scratched himself several times. Before him was a straw basket
full of odd and end pieces of clothe and broken trinkets. It had been several hours since
the master of the house left for work but he had to wait for another occupant to appear.
Tomoji wore a thin crème colored kimono and came outside to breathe in the
chilly air. He ran his hand along the front wooden pillar of the home as he slowly slid
down to sit. The student agreed that morning to place his seal on a letter of resignation
from the preparatory school. He consented to just about anything Ono-sensei wanted
these days. Tomoji even had to eat and drink only what was given to him, no more no
less. How can I leave? If I flee Ono’s estate I am not allowed to return and take my
‘medicine’. The young man sneered at the misnomer.
“You are such a good little rabbit. I’ll take care of you.” The doctor kissed
Tomoji earlier that day and left him alone. Kawano would have to wait for several long
painful hours before he could have more of what he needed regularly.
The vagrant yelled, “Hello? Young master, is Akemi here? I can only come
around one more time before the heavy snowfall.” The shabbily dressed man reached
inside the gate and ran his hand along the wooden pillar What is this? A gash in the wood
like the many sword scars I have seen in Kyoto during the years of strife.
- 37 -
Tomoji looked up, “What do you want?” He was almost annoyed to be pulled
from his obsessive thoughts.
“Akemi, is she here? Akemi, the mistress of the house, I have not seen her in a
long time. She usually brings out junk from the house and trades them for other things
such as eggs or other items I have.” The large man smiled.
“She is dead. And she was never the mistress of this house. Akemi was but a
servant here. Please go away.” Tomoji leaned against the pillar. His pale face nearly
matched the slightly melting snow.
“Buddha have mercy. That is awful! Say who are you? I’ve never seen you here
before. Are you the master of the house?” The man in the filthy kimono kept prying.
“No I am Tomoji, the student of Ono-sensei the owner of this estate. I live with
him.” Tomoji warmed his fingers with his breath.
“Ah I see. I’ll not bother you further young master.” The man pulled up his
basket and secured it to his shoulder and walked away. “Please look after your health in
this weather sir.”
“Ummm” Tomoji nodded. I’m already sick.
The man in the pale kimono exhaled and watched the peddler walk down the hill.
He watched the steam from his breath float ahead of him. “I can walk away from all this.
I can do it. I have to try hard.” Tomoji told himself, “Maybe there is medicine I can find
to cure myself.”
Sargeant Fujita confirmed all of his notes with his questions. Akemi was a servant
here. This sleepy young man knew her clearly. She had an affair with this doctor Ono.
Nakanishi-sensei said that she was not pregnant and seemed to have never had children.
There is no indication of murder in the one room home. The blood on the cutting board
was odd. Now this young man, who was the student I saw at the school, is living with
him. Right, Tomoji, Kawano Tomoji, the name on the classlist Nakanishi showed me. Do
I have a case at all? I am being paranoid. That scar in the wooden beam is unmistakably
from a sword. Ah, Gorou stop thinking so much! This Ono-sensei is from a different
generation, he does not practice the gentleman’s art.
Fujita brought his hand up to his face and sighed again at the loss of his
moustache. He walked out of the fashionable Koishikawa district towards his police
- 38 -
station determined to dismiss his idle thoughts as nonsense. I have better things to do
such as try out the new uniform I am to wear at that hideous building the Rokumeikan for
its opening celebration. It was futile, he wanted to make progress in what his chief called
an ‘imaginary’ case but the important event was drawing near. He gritted his teeth I ran
out of time. My night will be spent with sake. I am a failure.
~~~~~~~~~~
“Look what I’ve brought you Tomoji!” Suzue pulled up the young man into a
sitting position on the bed, “Fine white gloves, a beautiful black suit, shirt and trousers..“
he stopped speaking to see Tomoji’s listless eyes looking out the window. He grabbed
Kawano’s chin and hissed, “Look at me! Do you know where will be going tomorrow?”
Tomoji’s nodded his head slowly. The sick man did not blink his spiritless eyes
as he looked ahead, “We are going to the Deer Cry Pavilion, Rokumeikan.”
Ono narrowed his eyes, “And what else?!”
Kawano pulled his white kimono closer around his chest, “I am going to meet
Inoue Kaoru, the Minister of Foreign Affairs,” His large eyes fixed on the gold chain at
Suzue’s vest.
Ono-sensei was pleased with Kawano’s reaction and he pulled out the gold pocket
watch, “At what time Tomoji? Do you remember?” He pressed the time piece into
Tomoji’s hand.
The rabbit nodded his head again.
His keeper smiled and whispered, “Now take off your clothes and try these on for
me.” Suzue took pleasure in these simple activities. Ofcourse, he knows the clothing
would fit perfectly. Suzue studied every inch of his dear creature’s body. Dressing him
however was not as delightful as outfitting Akemi for whom he once enjoyed buying
hairpins, trinkets and makeup.
~~~~~~~~~~
A tall officer folded his arm and leaned against the wall inside the Italian style
building. He was trying to hide behind a gigantic vase full of brightly colored flowers. It
is winter and the government must have spent a fortune to get these blooms to impress
the westerners. In the meantime the peasants continue to starve. The man in uniform
stifled a yawn. Fujita nodded to one of the waiters, an officer in disguise, who was
- 39 -
clearly trying to mimic as best he could, another caterer in setting the silver eating
implements on the table.
“Fujita!” the Chief of Police walked up to the officer. “Inoue Kaoru is about to
arrive take your men and be prepared to provide the security you were chosen to do---“
The Sargeant nodded and saluted the superior, “Sir they are already at his
residence. They will escort his carriage here.”
“Then what are YOU doing? Perhaps mulling over that ridiculous case you
presented to me weeks ago? Do you have any idea how many whores drown themselves
in the rivers and ponds of Tokyo?” The man was turning red in the face.
“She was not a whore. Akemi was a girl from the countryside looking for work in
the capital.” No different than me after Aizu was defeated.
“I do not care. I have no idea why you are obsessing over an insignificant death.”
Fujita stood straight as if at attention, “As I mentioned during our meeting, she
had written her suicide note on the same kind of paper used at the University. That was
highly suspicious. Furthermore, she inflicted more pain on herself than necessary, if she
had intended to simply bleed and drown herself.”
“Because she probably stole the paper from your suspect.” The chief stomped his
foot, shaking the medals pinned to his chest, “And ofcourse being a peasant girl she was
too foolish to kill herself the RIGHT way. I should send you to Scotland Yard. Clearly
you are cut out for better work Fujita!” The chief twisted the end of his moustache and
marched away.
“Yes sir,” and clicked his heels together in the new German style which has
become fashionable in police training. A simple bow is not good enough for my
superiors.
Soon the dark polished carriages arrived with arrays of stern men bearing banners
to celebrate the rank of the official they guarded. Fujita watched as the westerners who
all looked strange with their different colored hair arrived with their shamelessly dressed
women. He glanced upwards to look at the many flags decorating the ceiling. Thank the
gods not all those countries have sent people here tonight. It would be impossible to
monitor such a varied crowd. The well-trained waiters began to weave their way
amongst the burgeoning partygoers offering hors d'oeuvres and alcohol. Out of one
- 40 -
corner a small orchestra tuned their instruments and began to play unfamiliar harmonies.
The wailing violins only exacerbated Fujita’s hangover and he tried to block out the
sound to concentrate on the people around him.
As the night progressed, the once occasional laughs became more frequent as the
wine and imported German beer began to cast their spell on the very important people.
Some of the dignitaries even loosened their cufflinks and folded their sleeves. The white
women leaned forward allowing the samurai to enjoy their bountiful treasures.
Conversations became more loud as the hall became full to capacity. Many of the
Japanese and foreigners seemed not to mind as they pressed their bodies closer and closer
to one another. The golden haired men began to sniff the young Japanese women and
disguised geisha as the Emperor’s men happily swapped their wives for the European
females. Not even the marble and the cold winter breeze flowing in from the door and
the few opened tall windows could stop the rising temperature. The Rokumeikan had
become a tropical jungle full of silk, lace, dark suits and the occasional kimono. The
magical atmosphere seemed to stop for Fujita as he spotted Akemi’s predator stealthily
moving amongst the carefree crowd.
Ono Suzue’s bearing and height made him, at first glance, to be a foreigner.
However, he was not asking a maiden for a dance. At his side was the young man who
lived at his estate. Fujita watched the two men who seemed to be waiting for something
to happen. Many officials and professors from Tokyo University and even business
owners were invited. Fujita Gorou did not recall Ono and his student’s name on the list.
Ono was educated abroad but too young to be a professor. Kawano Tomoji was not
related to anyone important. Nakanishi told him that the young man was from an
insignificant merchant family. Gorou tried to keep track of them in the swaying crowd as
he moved towards the door where the guards collected the invitations.
“Officer Koga, see those two men?” He pointed at Ono and Tomoji, “Did you get
their invitations?”
“Ofcourse Fujita-san look,” Koga pointed at the silver tray holding a mountain of
envelopes.
“Find me Ono and Kawano’s cards now. I doubt they appeared on the guest list.”
Fujita kept looking at the two men inside the hall.
- 41 -
Koga sighed, “Fujita have you been---“
“No I haven’t been drinking. Just do what I told you.”
~~~~~~~~~~
Ono was watching the scene around him like a hungry tiger stalking his prey. He
was worried that the events would go past the official schedule.
A young woman with bronze hair approached Tomoji, “Sir, do you know
English?” She was so nervous she did not wait for the rabbit’s answer, “My name is
Alina. I do not have a dance partner and…” Alina extended her gloved hand.
Tomoji acknowledged the cheerful girl briefly with a weak smile as if her sweet
voice had broken a spell. He turned to Suzue for assistance.
“Please excuse us Madame,” the doctor bowed slightly and dragged Tomoji away
from the dance floor and placed his hand on his pet’s chest.
They walked past a table and Ono’s rabbit saw a menu, which was written in
French. It said Le Plat Principal in beautiful cursive. Underneath the script was ‘Akemi’.
Tomoji looked on the table and saw a shapely woman’s torso was being carved into thin
slices by a waiter. Long strands of ebony black hair were arranged into mounds on the
heavy plates, becoming pillows for long severed fingers. The rabbit muffled his scream
in Ono’s sleeve and clutched the doctor out of fear.
Ono pulled the man off of him, “Tomoji what’s wrong? Are you tired? Sleepy?
I can have you sleep for a while and wake you.”
“Akemi” Kawano’s voice was strangled, “They are eating her on the table. A
waiter is slicing into her breast. Look!”
Suzue saw a large pheasant being cut on the small table as waiters laid dishes
brimming with angel hair pasta before the guests.
The doctor leaned in closer, confident that the music was cloaking his voice from
those around him “She’s dead remember? It is proper to have her for supper.”
“Akemi is dead. I forgot.” Tomoji nodded, “it is all right to eat her,” and his
breathing became even again.
“It is almost time Tomoji. Do you remember?” His voice caressed the man’s ear.
The rabbit nodded his head
~~~~~~~~~~
- 42 -
“I hope you are happy Gorou! We found those precious envelopes. But they are
not on the guest list as you assumed. One of the officers must have let them in during the
rush of attendees.” Koga handed them to his friend.
Fujita snatched the cards and examined them. He held the heavy paper up to the
light and ran his gloved finger over the calligraphy of the names Ono and then Tomoji. I
should stop being so paranoid. A waiter walked into the building with a lantern from the
garden, briefly illuminating the card from behind.
“Koga, we have to arrest those men!” Fujita said urgently.
“What?”
Sargeant Fujita shoved the cards into his pocket, “Get our men together and
follow me.”
~~~~~~~~~~
The rabbit leaned against the wall and suddenly lurched forward and covered his
mouth as he coughed uncontrollably. Ono-sensei held his pet, “Tomoji! What’s wrong.
Did you eat anything I did not feed you? Tell me now.”
Kawano tried to stand up straight and continued to cover his mouth. His eyes
became watery from the strain on his lungs. I want to vomit. Suzue held his student
upright, “Tomoji it is almost time remember?”
“I remember Suzue. I really do. But---“ He clutched his stomach in pain, “I have
been trying hard to forget what you have been telling me. It is wrong.”
“What?” Ono began to lose his patience. Fortunately the crowd drowned out his
exclamation.
“Ono-sensei, I may not have been the brightest student. But I’ve studied enough.
For these past days, after you leave for work, I go and try to find medicine for myself.”
Tomoji’s breathing became ragged.
“Fool! You are killing yourself. Why have you disobeyed me?” Suzue twisted
the fabric of Kawano’s suit in his fists.
“No you are killing me! I’m sick. You made me this way.” Tomoji gripped
Ono’s wrists, “You” the rabbit gasped, his large eyes became watery, “made me this way.
Sick. I always need it just to live every day.”
- 43 -
“Tomoji, I gave you a choice. You never refused me.” Suzue tried to make his
voice as soothing as possible and caressed the youth’s face gently, “Tomoji it is almost
time remember?” and smoothed Tomoji’s face with his thumb.
The rabbit covered his ears and winced, “Stop saying that! Every time I remember
what you have told me to do. Every time I know it is wrong!” He whimpered.
Fujita and two other men were close. They were moving fast towards their target
standing near the wall but the layers of people slowed their progress. The officers began
to shove people out of the way but the men and women were distracted by the movement
at the center of the hall where they anticipated Nippon’s royalty would soon appear.
Ono grabbed Tomoji by the shoulder and turned him, “Look Tomoji who is that?”
“Inoue Kaoru just like in the portrait you showed me many times.”
The Minister of Foreign Affairs glanced at the clock and knew that the Emperor
and Empress were about to enter the hall. He moved to the front of the guests flanked by
other Ministers. People may say that Ito Hirobumi cooked up the idea of Rokumeikan
but Inoue will not allow that rumor to persist. Tonight he will most certainly try to
assume the credit he deserves and be the one to announce His Majesty’s grand entrance.
A woman shrieked as she saw a young Japanese man lunge at Inoue Kaoru with a
knife. Kawano struggled with a waiter who was an undercover officer as people began to
shout and move away from the commotion.
Suzue’s heart was filled with elation as he saw Tomoji carry out his orders
obediently. As he foresaw, a velvet curtain was pulled aside allowing the Emperor and
Empress to step forward. Two of their bodyguards quickly responded to the sight of
Inoue being attacked by making themselves shields in front of the monarch and quickly
tried to retreat into another room. The Empress tried to look over the shoulder of the
large guard to see what was going on but she was urged to step back.
Fujita yelled at Suzue, “Stop!” His other men had already left his side to arrest
Tomoji.
Ono turned to see the Sargeant coming for him. He glanced at where the rulers of
Japan once stood and cursed at the poor timing. Suzue grabbed the young woman who
approached Tomoji earlier and slashed her with his knife. Alina’s eyes remained wide
and she slowly fell like a doll without making a sound. Her blood poured forth like a
- 44 -
fountain and splashed onto the people next to her, the people moved around her in a tight
circle. Fujita’s path was blocked and he yelled, “Men, he left through the back door!
Arrest him!” By the time he entered the garden in the back of the Deer Cry Pavilion,
Suzue had vanished into the night. He heard the doctors inside the Rokumeikan yelling
at the people to give them room to assist the woman Suzue had cut. The Sargeant looked
up at the moon hanging serenely in the sky. A plume of smoke in the distance of
Koishikawa made him growl. “He’s burning the evidence!”
When Fujita arrived at the Ono estate, the house had been burning for well over
an hour.
“That bastard must have set the fire before going to the Rokumeikan!” The
Sargeant grabbed a straw mat from the other material torn from the house and tossed it in
a nearby pond. He wrapped his shoulders with the wet mat and ran into the estate with a
small axe one of the firefighters had been using. Fujita cut through the fierce flames
looking for a desk, books, papers anything which may hold Ono’s records. He found the
study completely ablaze. Suzue had started the fire at his own desk. Stunned by his own
defeat, Fujita angrily hacked at the charcoal desk. The crumbling black wood and
swirling embers only enflamed Gorou’s anger and he continued to shout obscenities as he
brought the axe down several times. He was finally dragged out by firefighters as the
house began to collapse.
The next morning, Nakanishi, who was informed of the events which unfolded at
the Rokumeikan, came to work with various matters cluttering his mind. Ofcourse, he
would relate a tame story to Ono’s students. Perhaps he should tell them their beloved
young teacher went on leave. Nakanishi unlocked the cases, which contained the endless
rows of preserved human organs. By the jars, holding Akemi’s unwitting and precious
donation to science, he found a large envelope.
~~~~~~~~~~
Kawano Tomoji, son of a merchant family, formerly a student pursuing
admittance to the Tokyo University laid on a bed of straw in his cell. He remembered the
numerous hands which grabbed him. The police kicked him several times breaking one
of his ribs. He could not remember if Inoue Kaoru was even harmed by his efforts.
Tomoji was surrounded by doctors and officers, who questioned him endlessly
- 45 -
throughout the night. Sometimes he was coherent, trying his best to answer the questions
honestly. In the official reports, Kawano would be noted as speaking endlessly about
what he was asked to do repeatedly and that was to kill Inoue Kaoru. Tomoji claimed to
have no personal motive for the violent act. All he felt was a strong compulsion to just
do what he was told. He experienced violent convulsions during the time of his
imprisonment and would only ask for water. Guards came to his aid when he would
scream in the night believing that people had thrown him on the table to be sliced up as a
roasted bird at the Deer Cry Pavilion. The doctor who monitored Tomoji took down
many notes of the prisoner describing his own efforts to wean himself from a mysterious
substance Ono had given to him via a needle nightly at an approximate time. Over time
he seemed to get better and eventually two visitors were allowed to interview him.
Fujita Gorou looked at the young man sitting in the cell, “Kawano Tomoji, they
have convicted you with the attempted murder of the Minister of Foreign affairs.” He
grew somber to deliver the harsh news, “Please be at peace during your execution
Kawano-san.”
Tomoji just smiled and shrugged, “My time with Ono was a nightmare which I
could not control. I assume full responsibility.”
Fujita nodded at the remarkable resignation the young man expressed.
“Fujita-san can you explain to me what kept you interested in the matter regarding
Akemi’s death? Why did you care?”
The officer sighed, “I felt uneasy to see that the paper on which the suicide note
was written was the same as that used by the university. I suspected Ono. However I had
no evidence.”
Tomoji smiled, “He did it! Akemi is completely illiterate. She hires people to
write letters home.” His eyes grew wide, “I do not care anymore. Everything is over for
me but at least I will not die as Suzue’s pathetic animal. That substance no longer holds
any power over me.” He rolled up his sleeve and pointed at his arm.
Nakanishi who had accompanied Fujita and confirmed the identity of the suspect
of the Rokumeikan case leaned against the cell, “Tomoji you have told everyone that Ono
has injected you with a substance using a needle?” The old physician pointed to the
inside of his elbow, “Then Akemi must have been Ono’s…”
- 46 -
The Sargeant grew impatient, “What? Nakanishi just say it.”
“Experiment.”
~~~~~~~~~~
1883: GERMANY
Many old men sat in a dimly lit room full of cigar smoke. A bald elderly man
addressed the young foreigner, “This development of yours is not necessarily new. We
have been working on a similar substance as well however we found that the patient’s
suffered from liver infections and end up dying.” He chuckled that their efforts to kill
human suffering, killed the patient as well.
Robert, a black haired man stood up and addressed the men who were seated
around the large round table, “What you Germans do not understand is that the delivery
method is the issue. The needle must be sterilized. It is the needle which also gives the
patients an illness which damages their liver. Perhaps writings concerning germ theory
should be accepted in your ranks. What can live on the needle may very well be the
germs they speak of. ”
“And how would you know this Robert? What exactly is in the needle which kills
the patients and not the substance in development?”
Robert looked around the room, “The bacteria! Please believe me! You may have
countless human and non-human test subjects. I had two. After the unfortunate demise
of one patient, I examined her liver. It was not damaged. Now without sterilization of
the needle or any other mode of delivery for…” He paused “the medicine, then yes there
seems to be other unaccountable after effects. Therefore, I have to conclude that sterile
needles are needed. My deepest concern is patient hallucination and dramatic changes in
personality, not to mention their nearly immediate dependence on the medicine.”
The panel of elderly men, all accomplished scientists and physicians agreed.
Their leader, Mr. Jaeger, continued, “This will take years if not decades to study Robert.
I assure you that nothing you say will leave this room. How did you find your subjects?
Did you pay them? In essence, how did you make them cooperate?”
- 47 -
The man took out his gold pocket watch and checked the time. He cleared his
throat, “Well I shall call her subject A. She was afflicted and,” in love with me, “in order
to heal her I administered the dose in small increments. Unfortunately she succumbed,”
at my insistence, “and finally her suffering ended. As for my second pet---patient rather,
subject T. He was an opium addict and that induced him to experiment with this
substance willingly. I never had to betray my Hippocrytic ideals in either case.” although
I betrayed the hearts of both Akemi and Tomoji.
All the Germans looked at each other and murmured their impressions to one
another. The President of the Beyer Company spoke, “Before I formerly welcome you to
the company may you humor me with an explanation as to why a Japanese such as
yourself has adopted the name Robert?” His old face cracked into a grin.
Robert looked around the room and smiled, his charisma captivated the Germans,
“Certainly, I chose the name Robert as an allusion to my childhood name Ryuichi.”
The President of the company slowly stood up and extended his hand, “Then I
would like to welcome you Robert … Oni?”
The Japanese doctor winced at the mispronunciation of his family name, “I will
also need another last name. You see in my native tongue, Oni has a different meaning
entirely.”
Beyer’s head manager tilted his head, “And what is the other meaning sir?”
“It means demon. My family name is Ono, which is entirely different.”
Adolf Beyer was not a businessman, he was a scientist who had a gift for
recognizing talent, especially in one who would be paid less than his German
counterparts.
“Mr. Beyer, since I have told you about myself, I hope I am not being too forward
in asking about the substance the company is developing.” Robert bowed his head
slightly with deference.
“It’s a company secret doctor. However just revealing its name will not enlighten
you on its efficacy, nor its ingredients.” The old scientist tugged on his beard and studied
the oriental, “It is called heroin.”
~~~~~~~~~~
- 48 -
The Chief of police finished reading Fujita’s report and looked at its author and
Doctor Nakanishi who were sitting across his table.
“Chief, Akemi didn’t kill herself, Kawano told us that she was completely
illiterate.” Fujita stared at his superior, “She did not write that letter sir.”
“It doesn’t matter now does it? Tomoji is an unstable man about to be executed
for his crime.” The chief adjusted the medal on his shirt.
“Sir, Ono killed her and used his student like an animal.” Nakanishi leaned
forward, “her forearm and wrist were slashed violently to cover the evidence of the use of
needles to administer some sort of poison. The very same procedure used on Tomoji.”
The Chief of Police smiled, “I’m glad you are here Nakanishi-sensei, because that
saves me the trouble of having you arrested later on.”
The doctor slammed his hand on the table, “Nonsense!” He turned to Fujita for
assistance but his friend only said, “I’m sorry Nakanishi. While I was at the Rokumeikan
your cards were brightened by a lantern and I could see that he had removed your name
and your wife’s name.”
The Dai Keishi, chief of all police in the capital reaffirmed, “You see sensei, the
two were allowed into Rokumeikan because you gave them your invitations. Let me be
blunt. In the eyes of the law, you are an accomplice. How do we know you did not
remove the names on the cards so Ono could have them?”
Fujita turned to the shocked doctor, “Give your account to the Chief, sensei.”
The old man brought out the small cross he hung around his neck and clutched it
in his entwined fingers as if in prayer. Nakanishi thought back to that day, “We were
discussing clocks. He asked how I acquired my office clock. Then Ono placed his
pocket watch on the table. I was looking at it. Admiring its beauty.”
“And?” The Chief raised his eyebrow.
“I don’t remember. In fact it wasn’t until Fujita Gorou asked me later on that I
realized Ono took my invitations.” The doctor pressed his face into his hands, “That
bastard thinks he could not become a professor because I disliked him. This is ridiculous.
He is taking revenge on a minor matter.”
The Chief tapped Fujita’s report against the side of his desk, “And you Fujita and
your nonsensical report. Your theory supports Nakanishi’s idea that Ono was indeed the
- 49 -
mastermind and that he wished to kill the emperor. There is no motive for that. Ono did
not attack our Lord. He merely accompanied Tomoji who had a weapon and actually
tried to use it. Your ideas cannot be proven.”
“Except this,” Nakanishi slid the envelop across the table. “He left it for me or us
rather.”
Fujita sneered, “Ono burned his house. Destroyed evidence which may save
Tomoji and he wrote this rubbish. Ono knows this will have no sway on the case unless
we can hunt him down and drag him into court. He is an animal.”
The highest ranking law enforcement officer read the paper outloud:
I, Ono Suzue, was born of samurai rank to Satsuma-han. During my youth I was
afflicted with frequent bouts of sleeplessness and nightmares due to what I had seen in
Aizu.
Although the medical profession is shunned by my class, I pursued it to bring
enlightenment to my beloved land and at the same time cure myself of my inability to rest.
During my time abroad, I studied various sleep inducing toxins and adapted them hoping
they may be of use to human kind.
My dear father frequently wrote to me. I was stricken with anxiety over the
Satsuma Rebellion. It seemed that again, on behalf of our Emperor, our Lord and heart
of Japan, we were going to kill one another as we have done in the past and will
probably do so in the future. I lay full blame on my father for taking me to Aizu, which
became a hell on earth, and I punished him, my parent, with my own hands later.
However, I value his advice. His words were: ‘We live in a world of illusion’. If that is
the case and if our world’s pillar is the emperor then surely he is also a fabrication. Is
he a fabrication which caused us to kill one another?
But as a scientist I see the world as a collection of substance. The emperor is a
man. If I could kill the man, then perhaps the illusion would be shattered. I attempted to
condition Akemi and failed. With Tomoji I was more successful. However I was
suspicious of my own progress and instead made him the source of distraction to
accomplish my aim. Upon reading this letter, I may either be dead and successful in
committing the crime of killing our ruler, or I am reborn again to fulfill my capacity to
- 50 -
heal the world from its sickness. Do not see me as a cold and cruel man. With Akemi I
nurtured a simple woman and made her insignificant and pathetic life into one of
discovery for the sake of mankind. For Tomoji, a miserable student, I saved him from his
ultimate failure from school by making him an assistant for my aims.
As for Sargeant Fujita, I have always known of you. Nakanishi keeps your card
in his desk. When my pet rabbit told me a strange man came asking for Akemi at my
estate. I could guess who it was. Although I wear glasses often, my vision is flawless.
You were at the school and watched me from the landing of the stairs. Your uniform
made you easy to see amongst the students walking up and down the stairs. It is
admirable if not amazing that a man of your low education could compete with my
superior mind. Outstanding.
Think of me kindly and often,
Ono Suzue
The Chief swallowed after reading the letter written by the devil in human form.
“But gentleman, I am in a bind. Neither Fujita nor you Nakanishi-sensei can present
solid proof as to how Ono has controlled these circumstances and even the people around
him. Did he just charm you Nakanishi? And Tomoji as well?”
~~~~~~~~~~
1883: TOKYO
Kawano Tomoji’s punishment for his crime was fortunately carried out in the
capital under the merciful supervision of Inoue Kaoru’s bodyguard who asked his
comrade, a superb marksman, to use three bullets to end the suffering quickly. Before the
event, an imminent instructor from the Preparatory school for the Department of Science
at Tokyo University recommended that the executioner set the rifle on a tripod and ensure
the accuracy of his aim by attaching a string from the weapon to the prisoner’s heart.
Once the measurement is carefully made with the taught string then the shots should be
fired without hesitation.
- 51 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1883: GERMANY
“Ah Robert, it is a tradition in our company to give executives new pocket
watches inscribed with our seal on the cover.” Mr. Jaeger smiled kindly and handed a
velvet box to the mysterious scientist from Asia.
Robert took out his own gold watch and flipped it open and closed, “I appreciate
your gift but I must decline your generosity. This watch is most precious to me and
irreplaceable. I’ve found it to be incredibly useful as well.”
The old Mr. Jaeger looked at the wall clock as it signaled the three o’clock hour,
“Doctor we must attend the luncheon now. You will love the meal prepared.”
“What shall we be served?” Odeon returned the watch back into his coat.
“Roast rabbit, our chef’s specialty.”
“Good.”
- 52 -
Humankind’s constant
pleasure is sleep.
Our souls float on the
waves of night.
Where goes the memories
of dreams we fail to keep?
In this state, our hearts
beat slow,
Warm corpses we become.
The crimson tides inside
our veins
still flow.
How can we not succumb
to the seductive spell of
“leave the body and go” ?
- 53 -
- 54 -
Sleep on the Sea
After Aizu-han had finally surrendered to the kangun, Imperial Army. Aizu
samurai, as well as the numerous volunteer fighters, were herded into various prisoner
camps. The largest confinement area was at Inawashiro. Ryuichi accompanied his father
to one such place and saw countless of the defeated without water food and medical aid.
Ono Satoshi found a small persimmon ravaged by insects, tore off the top of the
fruit and removed a rotting part with his knife and handed the rest to his son.
“Papa? What will you eat?”
Satoshi already put the brown piece of fruit in his mouth, chewed and ignored the
repulsive taste, “Ryuichi I cannot watch over you this evening when you sleep. I have to
assist with the moving of supplies so you have to stay awake. Don’t close your eyes, I
will not be able to help you if you have a bad dream.”
“Supplies? Did we get more food?”
“Well, not exactly. Some of the soldiers…” are stealing things,15 “They asked
me to help. I have to follow orders.”
“I can carry things. Let me help father.”
“No,” you must not see samurai act dishonorably, “Ryuichi just focus on staying
healthy. You have to keep your food down.”
Ryuichi was ashamed of himself. The boy was so nervous and frightened he
often threw up his food and caused his father to worry endlessly.
“Be good Ryuichi,” Satoshi walked away leaving his son alone.
A large British man named Dr. Willis 16 had leveled with the Imperial Army and
told them to provide basic necessities to the prisoners at Inawashiro. The hundreds of
defeated warriors were confined by their own sense of honor. While they could easily
escape, they were compelled to stay and accept whatever fate would give them. Against
15
The looting of Aizu was mentioned on pages 737-740 of Yamakawa, Kenjiro. Aizu Boshin Senshi.
Tokyo: Tokyo Daigaku Shuppankai, 1931. (thanks to Mr. Armen Bakalian for citation)
16
SEE Cortazzi, Hugh. Dr. Willis in Japan, 1862-1877 : British medical pioneer. London ; Dover, N.H. :
Athlone Press, 1985. Willis, was one of the few non-Japanese to travel with the Imperial Army to northern
Japan. His valuable account details the brutality of war and confirms other narratives regarding the fight and
defeat of Aizu-han.
- 55 -
his father’s orders, the boy often walked close to the flimsy bamboo enclosure to watch
young men a few years older than himself, dirty and fatigued by their ordeal. Ryuichi
looked through the bamboo latticework as he ate a ball of rice another soldier had given
to him. A teenager walked up the fence and stuck out his arms through the holes and
leaned forward staring at Ryuichi, “Hey you.”
The boy stepped in closer as he nibbled on his simple meal.
“Yeah come here,” the young prisoner wiped the side of his dirt-covered face on
his sleeve and waved his hand.
Ryuichi stopped chewing, “What do you want? I’m not supposed to talk to Aizu
people.”
“Come on, there is no harm in talking. Where are you from? You sound like you
are from the south.”
Ryuichi nodded, “Satsuma, I came with my father.”
“So you have plenty to eat right?”
“Do you want some food? You hungry?” Ryuichi looked around, fearful that a
guard would catch him talking to a prisoner, “I have a persimmon too.” Ryuichi offered
the leftover malformed orange fruit.
“Yeah that would be good, but first…” Shichiro swatted the persimmon from
Ryuichi’s hand and grabbed the boy’s shirt dragging the dragging him towards the fence.
Ryuichi began to struggle with each breath. He was in a chokehold.
“Little shit, I’ll teach you.” The teenager gnashed his teeth, “You’ve probably
never seen death.”
Ryuichi dug his fingers into his attacker’s arms and he tried to speak “Let go! I
didn’t do anything!”
“Shichiro! What are you doing? He’s just a boy!” A loud voice came from
within the camp.
The young Aizu samurai shoved Ryuichi who fell forward. The kid from Satsuma
crawled on the dirt and coughed.
“That behavior is unacceptable!” A samurai in his late twenties continued to raise
his voice at Shichiro, “Accept the detention with dignity. Taking your revenge on a boy
- 56 -
will not bring your family back Shichiro.” Ryuichi heard the older man’s voice
somewhere before, but where?
“I’m sorry Yamaguchi-sama, he is with the filthy enemy who destroyed this land.
Look how he eats our rice. They’re taking everything!” Shichiro was not fearful of the
wild-haired samurai who grabbed his arm and dragged him away.
Ryuichi watched the men retreat further into the camp. His eyes were still
brimming from the tears of that vicious hold on his neck. I didn’t do anything. I just
came here to be with my father. Ryuichi tried to forget the night of the bonfire. They
told me to throw the rock at the men. I didn’t want to do it—but I did.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 IMPERIAL PALACE TOKYO
At the center of an opulent but dim room sat a small female figure in a thick silk
kimono. Her delicate features contrasted with the imported deep red wooden chair from
China. Her dark and intelligent eyes looked upon her lady in waiting with affection,
“Sutematsu, is your husband Ogama expecting you home early tonight? I do desire for
you to stay awhile and keep me company. Many of the ladies here cannot offer me
stimulating conversation.”
Ogama Sutematsu, originally of the Yamagawa family replied, “My husband is
out attending to business so I would be most honored to entertain you.” Sutematsu
lowered her head slightly to humble herself. Her long neck and shoulders heightened her
statuesque appearance.
“It seems women of all rank are never cherished enough by their husbands! But I
want you to have a splendid life with your Iwao. I know your Aizu family strongly
objected to you marrying into a Satsuma family. It is not easy to unite two former
enemies this way17. Do not allow your marriage to turn into a disease.” The
17
Eager to find a wife who could cope with foreign visitors and educate his daughters, the widowed Oyama
Iwao, one of the Satsuma leaders in the attack of Aizu in 1868 approached the Yamakawa family and
proposed to marry the much younger Yamakawa Sutematsu, “the only Japanese woman to have graduated
from college” (Kuno 142). She had departed Japan with the Iwakura Mission in 1871 just a few months after
her brother Yamakawa Kenjiro. Even though Oyama Iwao was the direct superior of Yamakawa Hiroshi, the
older brother of Sutematsu, the Aizu family initially rejected the proposal. Sutematsu was allowed to make a
- 57 -
noblewoman brought a French teacup to her lips, “I never tire of hearing about your trip
to America with the Iwakura Mission in 1871. Weren’t you scared?”
Ogama Sutematsu felt comfortable speaking to her lady as long as she was not
being scrutinized by other Japanese. Although her brother Kenziro had tutored her in
Connecticut she never fully recovered fluency in language, “Certainly, I was filled with a
mixture of fear and excitement. I did have the other girls to play with and the ship’s crew
tolerated our childishness.”
“Yes, I recall the other children who went to study abroad. Did you befriend that
boy from Satsuma? Ono.” Although this was her private chamber she looked around as if
to detect any other presence in the area aside for Sutematsu and her hidden retainer.
“Ono Ryuichi? Yes he and I were friends. Ryuichi was thirteen years old and I
was eleven.” She inhaled, “It was a real shock to me that three years ago he appeared at
the Rokumeikan like that. I did not actually see him myself but his name is mentioned by
those who were obsessed with the case,” like my brother Kenziro. Sutematsu briefly
closed her large eyes, an inherited Yamagawa family physical trait, and let her voice drift
off as she remembered the chaos at the Deer Cry Pavilion.
The petite woman on the chair fanned herself, “I confess to you Sutematsu that I
as the Empress of Nippon cannot even learn the details of that matter. I wonder if His
Majesty, and I, are viewed as children by our Satsuma and Choshu retainers. They tell us
what they want to and insist that whatever it is they do is for our behalf. So inform me
about Ono Ryuichi, Suzue, the boy you knew that time.”
“If it pleases you I shall describe him to you,” Sutematsu was surprised that the
Empress even knew the suspect’s name. Every effort was made to emphasize that Inoue
Kaoru, the Minister of Foreign Affairs was the only target. To suggest that the soul of
Japan was nearly murdered that night would undermine the competence of the Sat-Cho
men who surrounded the throne. It was in their interest to keep the plot a secret to
maintain national stability.
decision. After a brief courtship, she and Oyama married in November 1883 just one month before the
opening of Rokumeikan.
- 58 -
The clever consort of Emperor Mutsuhito closed her fan with a snap,
“Fortunately, I have a very loyal and skilled retainer who opened my eyes and ears to the
case. But only you can tell me about his trip to America my dear.”
~~~~~~~~~~
DECEMBER 1871 IWAKURA MISSION TO THE UNITED STATES AND EUROPE
MAIL SHIP AMERICA
“What do you mean this is normal? Nothing about this is typical to me. The boy
is not waking up and would appear dead if he didn’t have a weak pulse.” Moriyama
Arinori, the first Japanese ambassador to the United States confronted the ship’s doctor.
The sound of shrieking sea gulls overhead and the chilly breeze did not distract him from
the serious situation. The doctor held up both his hands up to stop Moriyama, “I am
learned in both Chinese and Dutch medicine and this condition does occur. I’ve read of it
before but never treated it myself. He will wake up eventually sir. Yelling at me will not
help him.”
Moriyama, loomed above the elderly man, “If he sleeps like this for more days
won’t he starve to death?” He squeezed both his hands into a fist.
“His body is in a deep state of rest so he does not need to eat or drink
immediately,” the old man shook his head, “Let me see if my texts suggests ways to
revive him.”
Moriyama watched the old man shuffle away and exhaled. He looked out towards
the dark blue sea and recalled the boy’s father, Ono Satoshi crouched before him begging
him to take good care of his Ryuichi, “All I can give Ryuichi is this chance. He takes
with him all my hopes and dreams. Please guard my son on this journey. Do not let him
sleep alone.” The Satsuma samurai gripped the railing and tried to calm his nerves. He
felt completely responsible for Ryuichi’s condition. Ono Satoshi did not explain why
Ryuichi was never to sleep alone. He was probably afraid that the boy’s peculiar
condition would disqualify him for this chance to study in America.
It was only a few nights ago that he and Okubo Toshimichi were enjoying a
fascinating conversation.
- 59 -
~~~~~~~~~~
“You rascal Okubo! I cannot believe that you had those Imperial banners made
even before the battle of Toba and Fushimi! 18” Moriyama slapped his knee, “To think
that you were so well prepared before the first clash. Brilliant!”
Okubo Toshimichi tugged his side-whiskers and replied with a heavy southern
accent, “I never leave anything up to chance. Besides the shogunate troops still fired on
his majesty’s crest. Remember, Moriyama, my best work is with Great Saigo and
Iwakura. It was the forged Imperial Edict which did the trick19. We were able to gather
all allies for the march on Aizu with that document. Anyone who did not unite under the
divine document became an enemy to the throne. No one wants to be under that stigma.”
Moriyama’s eyes grew wide, “Iwakura was involved too?”
“Iwakura was involved with many things,” Okubo leaned in close to whisper,
“Some say even the death of Emperor Komei20. With that Emperor out of the way Aizu’s
authority crumpled in Kyoto. Ofcourse when our Lord ascended the throne, we had to
mentor and protect him due to his tender age.”
Moriyama sipped some green tea, “That was a major turning point. That reminds
me. I often hear of letters by Emperor Komei given to Matsudaira Katamori, the daimyo
of Aizu…”
“The former daimyo of Aizu,” Okubo wagged a finger, “We must try to buy the
letters from him eventually. He should not have those documents from the divine hand
18
“In the fall of 1867 [Okubo] had secretly purchased from a store in Nishijin cloth to make imperial standards. He had
then contacted Tamamatsu Misao who designed and completed two stands of imperial flags and twenty stands of
ensigns. These were entrusted to the care of Shinagawa Yaijiro, a Choshu extremist, who had them stored in
Yamaguchi until they were used by the imperial forces against the rebels. Okubo thus meticulously prepared each step
toward his goal, leaving nothing to chance. " (Iwata 114)
19
“…one day before the Imperial audience, Saigo Takamori and Okubo Toshimichi of Satsuma, the court noble
Iwakura Tomomi and several other nobles and samurai had secretly obtained a banner and an imperial edict ordering
Chosu and Satsuma to kill Yoshinobu [Tokugawa Shogun] and punish Aizu by military force.” (Shiba 40) “Historians
now agree that the edict was a forgery, written without imperial sanction by Iwakura Tomomi and other antibakufu [anti-shogunate] nobles. (Ishii Takashi, Ishin no nairan [Tokyo: Shiseido, 1968] 11-17; Saski Suguru, “Taisei
hokan to tabaku mitchoku,” Jinbun gahuho 80 [March 1997] 28-29). (notes by Craig in Shiba 153)
20
“The Meiji rulers had assassinated the legitimate Emperor and replaced him with a frightened sixteen-year-old
puppet [Emperor Mutsuhito/Meiji].” (Calman 91) “In December 1979, the Rekishi Dokuhon (1979:91 et seq)
summed…in this case a team of modern doctors were unanimous in declaring that the evidence showed that Komei had
been poisoned when well along the road to recovery from smallpox…theories as to how the poison was administered.
One was Iwakura’s eldest sister…another was Iwakura presenting Komei with poisoned writing brushes, knowing he
was in the habit of sucking his brushes.” (Calman 92)
- 60 -
declaring Aizu’s loyalty and service in Kyoto21. It’s a shame we could not just execute
that fox Katamori.”
“Why not?” It was not difficult for Moriyama to shun politics. He was not even
in Japan during some years leading up to the war so his curiosity got the best of him. His
questions were awarded with answers, which often revealed that everyone, the victors
especially, had bloodied their hands in the year of the earth dragon—when Japan was
reborn.
Okubo covered his mouth as he yawned, “Beheading Matsudaira would make him
a martyr and perfect excuse for the surviving retainers, not to mention other northern
domains, to rebel endlessly. Besides, he is so much more pathetic when kept alive never
allowed to commit seppuku honorably like his loyal men or even those Byakkotai boys
on Mt Iimori.”
Moriyama smoothed back his thick hair, “In any case I’m glad those bloody times
are behind us. We have to rebuild with all domains now Okubo.” Arinori changed the
direction of the conversation. He wanted to see the Okubo he respected: the good patriot.
“We need a united Japan,” Okubo Toshimichi lifted the shallow cup as if to make
a toast, “Moriyama, how is the girl from Aizu? You get along so well with children. I
scare them.”
“It’s your aweful face Okubo!” Moriyama laughed heartily, “Yamagawa
Sutematsu is doing well. She plays with Tsuda Ume the little one,” Perhaps Okubo has
a kind heart thought Moriyama. Okubo Toshimichi and his group of conspirators
destroyed Aizu and other northern territories yet he tried to be kind to the samurai girl.
“Good. Those older Aizu retainers will never forgive us. But the ones her age
can be brought into our ranks. Or rather, the men her age. It always amazed me the
Yamagawa family sacrificed their youngest daughter for life abroad.” Okubo’s face grew
21
“My grandfather [Matsudaira Katamori]…was in charge of the defence of Kyoto…we have a long confidential letter
he received from Emperor Komei himself…In order to maintain secrecy, the Emperor composed his letter in the form
of an Imperial poem in classical Chinese and sent it to my grandfather by special messenger in a ceremonial …box to
make it appear as if he were merely bestowing…a poem.” (Princess Chichibu 3) “When he died in Nikko in 1893, he
was found…on his person the two Imperial letters…Satsuma and Choshu men---was greatly embarrassed to have
Katamori Matsudaira of Aizu in possession of such documents…the Government even offered him a large some of
money for the letters…Not knowing when he might be killed by an assassin…he placed them in a bamboo tube which
he wore next to his skin even while bathing.” (Setsuko Princess Chichibu 18)
- 61 -
red from the alcohol, “In a few years my plan for Aizu will finally be enacted.” Okubo
tapped his fingers on the table.
Moriyama, “What plans?”
“New financial initiatives, land taxation and so forth. Surely you understand we
must test these ideas on the only domain which no longer has political power 22. Other
domains are simply having old retainers take on the new labels of governor or other city
official ranks. Only Aizu has been fully dismantled.” Okubo’s eyes glimmered.
Moriyama sighed, exhausted on behalf of Okubo’s machinations.
As usual, those around me cannot grasp my genius thought Okubo, “Moriyama,
see it as redemption. If it works well in Aizu, it will work for Japan. Everything is for
the good of our country.”
Moriyama narrowed his eyes, “Land taxation has been a dangerous issue since
ancient times. What if the peasants rebel?”
“We crush them. Hang them. Shoot them.” Okubo ground his cigar in a glass
bowl, “We’ll deal with it when the time comes.” He rubbed his eyes, “It’s getting late.”
He walked to the door and nearly fell from the ship’s motion. Moriyama shouldered the
Minister of Finance.
Okubo muttered, “If I accidentally jumped off the boat tonight, would anyone
miss me?” he laughed but stopped abruptly as Moriyama opened the door.
Ono Ryuichi, had his arms around his middle and stood in the bitter cold in front
of Moriyama’s room.
“Ryuichi! How long have you been standing here?” Moriyama was astonished
and what did you hear?
Okubo took his arm off his companion’s shoulder and patted Ryuichi’s head, “Be
good little one.” He hiccupped and turned to the samurai, “Hey Moriyama I’ll make it to
22
Okubo Toshimichi began to study in great detail and plan an economic rehabilitation in Asaka (Fukushima area)
from 1876 to his assassination in 1878. Due to the lack of water and inadequate government financial support the
agricultural project failed. (Shimoda 164-168) By 1882, severe economic hardship, inability to cope with inflexible tax
laws, popularity of the Freedom Party and the construction of a major road by underpaid laborers resulted in the
Fukushima Incident where peasants and former samurai were rebelled. The governor, Mishima Michitsune, of
Satsuma, suppressed the uprising ruthlessly. Even businesses and factories which opened in Fukushima were from
“outsiders” such as Satsuma men.
- 62 -
my room all right. Don’t worry. I won’t fall off the ship. Japan needs me.” Okubo
staggered into the darkness humming a folk song.
Arinori pulled the shivering boy into his room, “Is there something wrong
Ryuichi?”
“I can’t sleep alone. I tried to sleep with the others but I can’t.” Ryuichi’s skin
was pink from the icy wind.
The diplomat smiled, “We have been away from Japan for only three days and
you are homesick already I see.”
“I need to sleep with someone.”
Moriyama put a hand on Ryuichi’s shoulder, “Come now, you are thirteen nearly
an adult. Besides you are with several men. I should have you and Okubo’s son, Makino
Nobuaki become playmates.” He examined Ryuichi. The boy was appeared much
younger than his age. Ryuichi’s eyes shone like dark gems, his soft delicate face and long
eyelashes made him look almost like a girl. It was no wonder Sutematsu and Ume
accepted him as their playmate. Perhaps his father has been overprotective and spoiled
the boy.
“Moriyama-san, they fall asleep from alcohol and cannot help me if I call out at
night. You don’t drink as they do. Only you would be able to help me.” Ryuichi blinked
and looked up at Moriyama pleading, “You have to wake me if I yell in my sleep.
Otherwise I’ll die.”
The words were enigmatic to Moriyama Arinori until they became nearly
prophetic.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 IMPERIAL PALACE TOKYO
Sutematsu took off her long silk gloves and fidgeted on the floor. The Empress
motioned to a nearby chair, “Sutematsu, I sent the female servants away earlier. You
don’t have to be so formal when no one is watching us. Go have a seat so you can tell me
this story.”
- 63 -
Yamagawa Sutematsu found the traditional way of sitting on the floor in western
dress uncomfortable. Once seated in a chair, she continued “Well it was Ume and I who
found him in a very strange state one morning….
Everyone was trying to have breakfast and some of the younger shogunate men
who had lived abroad before were trying to teach everyone how to eat properly. There
was an argument because the Satsuma men grew indignant and so Ume, who was only
six became scared. I took her out of the dining room and we decided to look for Ryuichi.
Some of the men said that Ryuichi had a nightmare and screamed that night but he did
not wake up for breakfast. So we planned to surprise him. The door was unlocked and
we tip toed in. He seemed to have his eyes close. Ume was very mischievous so she
hopped on the bed and pounced on his chest.”
Okubo and Moriyama as usual were enjoying their morning stroll together on the
deck.
Arinori, “Well, I finally got rid of the boy and forced him back to his room. So we
can resume our talk tonight.” Besides, it was unnerving how he watches my every
movement. Moriyama shook his head when he realized the boy had become his shadow.
“It’s unacceptable that a fellow Satsuma samurai has not raised his son to be more manly
and independent.” He often disobeys me. How am I to discipline such a charming young
boy?
“I wonder if this new era will breed more weakness rather than strength in Japan,”
Okubo tugged his whiskers and frowned. The master of Nippon’s wealth wondered if it
would be wise to tell his friend that he recently found the boy sleeping on Moriyama’s
jacket. Peculiar. He decided against doing so. There was no harm in the boy’s
affection—right?
“Ryuichi, sleeping while the sun is up will make you weak,” Okubo woke the
boy.
The son of the Ono family kept his right cheek on the jacket, “It is safe to sleep
during the day when everyone is awake watching over me.”
- 64 -
Okubo wondered why the boy did not stand up straight to speak to him. How
rude, “I heard that you are homesick? You must miss your father. He is an honorable
man.”
“Um-Mmm,” Suzue’s eyes twinkled, “No, I don’t miss him at all. I have
Moriyama-sama now,” he closed his eyes and purred into the fabric, oblivious to
Okubo’s unapproving glare.
Moriyama glanced at his companion who was lost in thought, “Okubo?”
The Minister of Finance smiled, “Yes, go on. I am listening.”
“It was annoying how he crept into my bed and refused to sleep on the floor.
Very uncomfortable.” I had to sleep on my side the entire night when he pressed his face
against my back.
The sound of boots pounding on the wooden plank interrupted their conversation,
“Moriyama-sama! Okubo sama!” Sutematsu ran towards the men. She pulled
Moriyama’s sleeve, “It’s Ryuichi he won’t wake up. Come look!” Her eyes betrayed her
fear.
Okubo chuckled, “Sutematsu-chan, he is probably playing a prank.”
“He is not waking up?” Moriyama ran to the room with Sutematsu as that
charming face flashed in his memory, “Only you would be able to help me. You have to
wake me if I yell in my sleep. Otherwise I’ll die.”
Inside, Ume was still sitting on the bed with Ryuichi. She pulled on his nose,
grabbed his hand and shook it. Ume covered her face, “He’s dead!” the girl wailed as
Sutematsu lifted the small girl off the bed.
“Okubo, look how strange. His eyes are not rolled back, the eyelids are partially
open too.” Arinori placed his hand on the side of the doll-like face and searched for a
pulse on the boy’s neck. Moriyama turned to the statesman, “Get the doctor.”
~~~~~~~~~~
The Empress narrowed her eyes briefly, “So what was wrong with him
Sutematsu?
- 65 -
“I don’t know. Even the doctor never could explain it.” Sutematsu looked at the
Empress and shook her head, “Finally I did what I had seen in Aizu during the war. It
was a Chinese technique which a few doctors know of. I heard that it is in fact a mode of
torture,” she lowered her voice, “But I regret helping him if indeed he was responsible for
what happened three years ago.”
On the fourth day, Moriyama decided that Ryuichi should be moved into his room
and the doctor had to attend to the boy periodically throughout the day and try to force
feed him. While the physician was afraid the boy will choke, Moriyama himself made an
attempt. He propped up Ryuichi and spooned gruel into his mouth and massaged his
throat. The boy remained passive and the sustenance dribbled out of his mouth. The two
girls spent many morning hours playing near their sleeping friend. Moriyama left the
children briefly to check on the other members of the Iwakura Mission.
Sutematsu put her chin on the bed. The doctor had observed that the eyelids
would move up half way gradually and it was necessary to close them to keep his eyes
from drying. The youngest daughter of the Yamagawa family gently smoothed the
eyelids down and turned to Ume, “I’m going to my room to get something to help
Ryuichi you stay here Ume.”
Ume was still perched on a chair shredding scraps of thick paper, she nodded and
Sutematsu closed the door.
Moriyama returned to see that his desk was covered with Ume’s antics, “Ume
what are doing?” He grinned and wondered what it would be like to be a father one day.
“Moriyama-sama! Look at what I am making!” Ume held up a handful of
crushed paper.
He looked to Ryuichi who showed no signs of improvement and back at the
darling girl, “Oh? Ume that paper is not for origami. It is for letter writing.” If Ryuichi
dies that will be the paper I’ll use to inform his father.
“Sorry,” Ume crawled onto Moriyama’s lap and opened her arms. The diplomat
lowered his head so she could cling to his neck, “I made cartridges.” She hugged him
affectionately, “But I need to put the metal balls inside.”
- 66 -
Moriyama turned to the small girl, “Cartridges? How did you learn of such a
word?”
“They are for war. Don’t you know? Sutematsu taught me how. She made them
in the white castle at Aizu. 23” Moriyama’s mood became grim. He realized that
Okubo’s assumption that the youth of Aizu could forget and likely forgive over time may
be inaccurate. Yamagawa Sutematsu’s memory of the Boshin War did not fade and
never will.
“Moriyama-sama?” Sutematsu stood at the doorway, “Okubo-sama asked me to
come get you.”
Ume jumped off the man’s lap as he stood up, “I just spoke to him.” He left the
room annoyed and Sutematsu carefully closed the door.
“Sutematsu, what are you going to do to help Ryuichi?” Ume looked up at the girl
she saw as a sister. Her eyes twinkled with wonder.
Yamagawa brought out a needle 24 and approached the bed, “Don’t look Ume.
Turn around.”
Okubo picked a piece of bread from his side-whiskers, touched the corners of his
mouth with a napkin and looked up at Moriyama who entered the dining room.
“Sutematsu said you wanted to speak to me again.”
Okubo blinked at his friend, “Fooled by a child I see.”
23
The words of Yamakawa/Oyama Sutematsu, “I was too young to be trusted with the making of
cartridges, so the work allotted me was to bring the leaden balls from the storehouses, and after they had
been made up into cartridges to carry them back to another storehouse, whence they were sent to the men.”
(Kuno 29)
24
The use of needles to revive people who are unconscious is in fact an old Chinese remedy. I read this
detail in both a book written in Thai and at another point in a book written in English which covered
medicine in the ancient world. The use of needles under nails became a method of torture in WW2 by the
Imperial Army in the Pacific theatre. During the Victorian Era, there was a profound and logical fear of
burying people alive after they supposedly died. To prevent the error, doctors also pricked the skin of
cadavers with needles several times to ensure that they in fact had passed on.
The biography of Mark Twain also reveals that needles were used “stage” hypnosis in the 19th century, “As
a boy, Twain volunteered to be a hypnotic subject for a stage hypnotist. The latter was apparently
successful in inducing a deep trance, which Twain in fact dissembled. At one point, Twain even tolerated
people sticking needles through his flesh; although this caused him excruciating pain, he successfully
suppressed all outward expressions of discomfort.” (Bowers 10) So convincing was the boy’s act that he
was “never able to convince his mother in later years that he had faked the whole episode.” (Bowers 10).
- 67 -
Sutematsu pursed her lips. She held Ryuichi’s hand firmly and pushed the needle
under the nail of his index finger.
Wake up! She commanded him mentally. The girl pushed the needle in deeper
and blood began to spill quickly onto the sheets painting angry red blossoms. Still
nothing.
The two men quickly walked to the bedroom, “Moriyama, she is guilty of lying
we ought to put her in a mock trial 25 and convict her. It would be a wonderful learning
experience,” said the financial wizard.
“Don’t be ridiculous!” Arinori glared at him.
Okubo elbowed him, “I thought that you will be surveying the educational system
in America, this IS educational,” he laughed at his own sarcasm.
Ryuichi’s lips parted slowly and a whimper slowly built in his chest. He frowned
a bit but relaxed and slipped back into the slumber. Sutematsu’s hand was now covered
with his blood. Nearly half the needle was under his nail when the boy’s eyes opened
wide and he screamed.
Both Moriyama and Okubo were shocked to see the girl clutching the boy’s
injured hand.
“Look he woke up!” Ume the toddler ran to the men beaming. “Sutematsu did it!
She saved him!”
As the girl from Aizu tried to pull the needle out, Ryuichi grabbed her wrist and
continued yelling incomprehensible words. The boy’s fingers dug into Sutematsu’s arm
and she yelped in pain.
The Empress had brought the fan up to her face as if to block out the image of the
needle entering the boy’s finger. “Sutematsu what was he saying when he woke up?”
25
An official with the Justice Ministry on the Iwakura Mission was involved in an embarrassing situation
in which he pulled on a girl’s sleeve while drunk. Ito Hirobumi was the judge in this mock trial. (Kuno
60-61)
- 68 -
“Ryuichi was wailing about someone with blue glasses was going to cut his head
off with an axe.” Sutematsu sighed, “He was terrified of this illusion, but I eventually
questioned my sympathy when I found him with Ume.”
“Hey!” Makino Nobuaki, the ten-year son of Okubo Toshimichi pointed at
Ryuichi. “Big brother, where did you get that jacket? It’s very nice.” It seemed comedic
that Makino, who was tall for age would call the weak looking Ryuichi big brother.
Ryuichi tilted his head up arrogantly, “Moriyama-sama saw how cold I was and
gave it to me.”
Nobuaki approached Ryuichi, “Is your hand better? Why don’t you play with us
instead of the girls?”
“The girls are very gentle and not rough like all of you.” Ono kept backing away
gradually.
“Can I see your wound big brother?” Okubo’s son continued to approach
Ryuichi.
Ryuichi placed his bandaged hand inside his pocket, “No.”
Soon the other young men surrounded Ryuichi demanding to see the hand, hoping
to be treated to a grisly sight. “Come on Ryuichi we want to see what the needle did to
your finger!” They decided to use force. One of the bigger boys grabbed and held
Ryuichi as the others stretched out his hand and arms. Nobuaki unraveled the bandage,
“Your hand is all right! Why do keep wrapping it in cotton?”
“It still hurts,” Ryuichi tried to find an opening in the circle to flee.
All of the bullies pointed and laughed, “What a baby! Ryuichi is a little girl!”
Moriyama used his left hand to hold the bottle of ink on the table. The seas were
very rough and made it difficult for him to note down some ideas in his diary. If he was
in the mood to write, he would mention that the boy began to act like a permanent
resident of his bedroom. Arinori saw the glow of the lamp reflect off the small elegant
face on his pillow. It is just as well. I can’t risk having him enter that state again on the
trip. He quietly took off his shirt, pants and put on a thin kimono.
- 69 -
Ryuichi opened his eyes slightly, just enough to see the man’s body. He looks
different from father. Moriyama-sama’s back, shoulders and legs looked firm and strong.
Father is older and thin.
Arinori tied the obi around his waist and turned around. The boy’s eyes were
closed yet he felt uneasy. He dimmed the lamp and laid on the bed. A few thoughts
raced through his mind like how to find good American homes for the children and the
multitude of tasks he must complete in Washington D.C. He felt Ryuichi’s hand on the
middle of his back.
“Moriyama-sama.”
“Yes Ryuichi?” He was about to turn over but was afraid that facing the boy
would lead to a lengthy conversation.
“Do you love Ume?”
Moriyama frowned, “Tsuda Ume is not my child. However, I do care for her. It’s
my responsibility to look after everyone. Why do you ask Ryuichi?” He yawned in his
hand.
There was a moment of silence and the boy moved in closer to his back.
Moriyama felt Ryuichi’s warm breath through the fabric of his kimono, “Ume hugged
you and sat on your lap.”
“When?” Moriyama looked at the wall along the bed.
“I saw and heard everything before I woke up from the needle. You are nice to
both girls.” Ryuichi pressed his face in close to the man.
The diplomat wanted to reprimand Ryuichi for lying. Instead, he chose to ignore
the strange words. He could not have possibly known what was going around him as he
slept. The boy inhaled the man’s soothing scent. He soon fell asleep even though he was
not happy to hear Moriyama say, I do care for her.
Okubo looked at his razor. Dull. He glanced at a mirror I do need to shave
otherwise I’ll be picking more than just bread from my whiskers.
Arinori drew the blade down his cheek slowly while the large ship remained
steady. It was Okubo’s voice, which startled him, “Can I borrow your blade---too lazy
to sharpen mine.”
- 70 -
“M-Mmmmm,” Moriyama kept his mouth closed as he finished the process. He
washed his face with French soap at the basin. Ryuichi reached up to wipe his face with
a cotton towel. Okubo raised his eyebrow at the sight. Moriyama laughed and grabbed
the towel from Ryuichi’s hand. Toshimichi jested, “Ryuichi would you wipe my face
after I shave?”
Ryuichi stared back, “No, you aren’t Moriyama-sama.” Without asking for
permission, he began to splash his face with water from the same basin and lathered the
soap on his delicate skin. Moriyama pointed at the boy and smiled at Okubo, “He is
mimicking me. I should have adopted him from his father.”
“I’m not impressed Mori. Boys just a year or two older them him were
shouldering rifles in the war.” Toshimichi narrowed his eyes and shook his head if
anything this Ryuichi seems intellectually underdeveloped. He expresses himself by
copying adults that is all.
Sutematsu kneaded her hands in her lap, “A few days after he woke up we played
hide and seek. I found the rest of our friends except Ume and Ryuichi.”
“Ume, let’s go hide at the other end of the ship!” Ryuichi whispered to the
toddler.
“Can you be my horsie?” She smiled and jumped slightly.
Ryuchi turned around and crouched, allowing the girl to climb onto his back,
“Let’s go.”
“Your Highness, I looked everywhere for those two. Finally, I got to the end of
the ship in the large room where the furnace burned the coal.” Sutematsu covered her
face, “I now realize what he was about to do.”
Ryuichi opened the large metal door in front of the huge blaze. He looked inside
the oven and saw black mounds of charcoal in the golden flames. Charcoal does not
scream like humans. He beckoned to Ume, “Come look.”
- 71 -
The girl took a step forward and stopped, “No, it’s hot.” She shook her head and
watched the roaring fire.
Ryuichi grabbed her waist, “Ume what are you afraid of?” He lifted her closer,
“It’s pretty.”
Ume squealed as she was placed closer to the fire, “Hot! Hot! Let go!”
The boy held her tightly, even as she kicked his waist and moved in closer to the
hungry fire. Her cries drew both Sutematsu and Makino Nobuaki who pulled the toddler
from Ryuichi’s grip.
“Ume wanted to look at the fire, so I was about to show her,” Ryuichi blinked.
Tsuda Ume cried into Sutematsu’s arms and Nobuaki kept his eyes on Ryuichi as
they backed out of the room slowly together.
The Empress held her breath, “You found Ume in time!”
Sutematsu nodded, “Up until this moment I refuse to believe what I saw. Yes, I
and the other children, found them in the boiler room. After that day, I watched Ume at
all moments. Ryuichi stayed close to Moriyama Arinori for the rest of the trip and
stopped playing with us.”
“Did you tell Moriyama or Okubo? Any of the adults?”
Her eyes focused on the floor, “No, because I was not sure what exactly he was
going to do. It was unfathomable. At the time, I hoped maybe he was just holding her
too close to the fire.”
“Sutematsu, did your brother Kenziro know Suzue? They are four years apart and
many students did write to one another.” The queen examined Sutematsu’s face
carefully.
“Yes, they met at Yale. But Kenziro simply told me to stay away from Ryuichi
and never to reply to any of his letters.”
The Empress leaned forward in her chair, “So did Ono ever write to you?”
“No.”
After the other children decided to instinctively keep their distance from the boy,
Suzue became Moriyama’s admiring attendant and student who even sat near the
- 72 -
diplomat during important meetings with the other men on the Iwakura mission. He
watched with fascination as Moriyama spoke English or described his past travels. So
when Ryuichi missed all his meals one day, it was understandable that Arinori grew
concerned.
Ono sat on his ankles, in seiza position, and faced the wall quietly for hours.
Moriyama was astonished to see the boy punish himself for no apparent reason, “Ryuichi
what are you doing?”
“I did something bad. Almost. Just a few more hours of punishment for me
Moriyama-sama,” Ryuichi still kept his eyes fixed on the wall.
Moriyama crouched by the boy, “What were you going to do?”
“I was about to throw…something on a fire. It’s wrong.” Ryuishi pursed his lips
and his eyes became intense, “Wrong, father would be so angry with me.”
The man looked at his desk, covered with books, papers and business he had to
plan I do not have time for this, “Ryuichi if you think this is what you deserve then fine.
But never ever lie to me. Tell me what you were about to do. Exactly what were you
going to burn?”
“It was a…thing, that’s all. Just a thing.” Ono Satoshi’s only son turned to his
chosen mentor, his eyes moist with tears, “I was going to make a mistake,” his small lips
quivered, “I want to go home,” he dove in to hug Moriyama tightly. Arinori was so taken
aback by the sudden physical contact he stood up quickly but the boy’s arms were still
wrapped around waist, “I want to see my father again.”
Finally I can hug Moriyama-sama! How wonderful it is to be so close to him.
The man could hear the muffled sobs. Moriyama placed his hands on Ryuichi’s
shoulders, “Cry if you must. You will be separated from Nippon and your father for
many years.”
Okubo opened the door without knocking and stopped. Ridiculous. He stomped
his foot angrily, “Ryuichi if you keep acting like a weak little woman than I’ll make you
wear a flower covered kimono and send you to serve the sailors! Be a man and stop
sniveling!”
The Satsuma samurai glared at the Minister of Finance, “Do not be so foul
Okubo! The child is miserable without his parent.”
- 73 -
Toshimichi laughed the imp told me he does not even think of his father,
“Sometimes you call him a child, a young man or a man.” Okubo looked at his right and
left hand as if to weigh the words, “Moriyama, you are the one who is confused.
Discipline him otherwise the other dignitaries will ridicule you. How can you lead Japan
if you cannot teach this….this Ryuichi?”
The Minister of Finance grabbed Ryuichi’s hand and pulled off the bandage,
“Look Arinori, his wound has healed but he still covers it, pretending to be weak.”
Ryuichi looked to Arinori, “It still hurts Moriyama-sama!” and wretched his hand
free from Okubo’s grasp.
Moriyama ordered, “Go outside Ryuichi.”
“The boy is manipulating you Moriyama,” Okubo narrowed his eyes, why I do not
know. “His affection for you is inappropriate. Why do you allow him to waste cotton on
his hand?”
“I tend to his hand wound daily. I believe Ryuichi when he says that it still
bothers him.” Arinori glared at his associate, “Do not make such assertions without proof.
Only someone with a mind teeming with plans, like you, would accuse an innocent boy
of such things like manipulation Okubo!”
“Arinori, I haven’t the heart to tell you what I know about Ryuichi and what he
was about to do to the girl Ume. I hope my son, Nobuaki, is the liar in that case.”
Moriyama demanded, “Tell me.”
“What is the point? You coddle the Ono boy and care for his perfectly healed
hand day by day Moriyama. I really have nothing further to add.”
The diplomat watched Okubo leave. He called Ryuichi back into his bedroom.
As Arinori watched the boy crawl into his bed he smoothed the front of his shirt. Ryuichi
did not wet my shirt with his tears one bit.
Japan’s most powerful woman sighed, “Fujita is this enough information?”
Sutematsu looked around who is she addressing?
A tall man with tan skin emerged from behind a screen. He was wearing the
uniform of the imperial guard. Sutematsu was surprised. She has seen him at her
- 74 -
brother’s estate several times, Fujita Gorou, whom other Aizu retainers address as
Yamaguchi Jiro.
He sat on the floor several feet away from the Empress and kept his eyes lowered,
“I think this information gives me better insight into Ono Suzue but not where he is
located presently. I have acquired the box full of the evidence however, Ono’s letter
which clearly detailed his plan to commit an unspeakable act was removed and no doubt
destroyed.”
The Empress nodded with understanding, “My loyal Satsuma and Choshu
retainers want to keep this case a secret. I have concluded that this secrecy must be
maintained. Take this envelop with the imperial seal and have someone compose a
detailed report in English. When everything is complete, deliver the document to Sir
Francis Plunkett at the British Legation.” She turned to her lady in waiting, “Sutematsu
this was necessary, Officer Fujita did not want anyone to know he interviewed the wife of
the powerful Ogama Iwao. So I thought it best to have you speak in my room.”
Sutematsu glanced at her brother’s friend who must have been the officer who
chased the suspect that night.
Empress Shoken stood up, “Fujita please escort Sutematsu. Do not forget the
special box which has been prepared.” She walked into another room as both Fujita
Gorou and Sutematsu lowered their heads.
It took several minutes for both of them to leave the perimeter of the palace
building. Fujita finally spoke, “Please do not mention this matter to your brother. I need
to gather details from him. He will be assisting me in this case.”
Sutematsu climbed into her carriage and looked at the palace, a simple low
wooden structure really. It was as if the Divine Will was imprisoned at the heart of
Tokyo. Of course, only victors of the Boshin War are allowed to interpret all heavenly
mandates. Before Fujita could close the door she stopped him, “Her Majesty mentioned a
box. What or who is it for?”
“Ono Suzue.” He closed the door and signaled to the driver.
Gorou bowed towards the palace, a formality all guards practiced before leaving
their shift, and recalled the words of the fugitive in his letter But as a scientist I see the
world as a collection of substance. The emperor is a man. Fujita filled his lungs with the
- 75 -
crisp night air His majesty is a man who sleeps, eats, smiles and creates heirs. But for
Japan to be a country his divinity, true or not, must be sustained and defended by mortals
such as myself. The officer vowed to never waver from this conviction for Nippon must
rush to meet her destiny in the world without hesitation. Who am I to doubt His intent?
- 76 -
No color seduces the eye
Or makes the heart beat
faster
Than
Red.
To see red on black is to
view Beautiful, passionate
lovers entertwined.
- 77 -
- 78 -
Red on Black
1873 YALE UNIVERSITY, A “Tomb” NEAR THE SHEFFIELD SCHOOL OF
SCIENCE BUILDING
“David Engelon, you have been tapped to be a knight in our society.” The leader
of the Skull & Bones pulled aside a curtain revealing a coffin with dramatic flair.
Engelon yelled, “Perhaps this pathetic group is named Skull & Bones because all
of its members are gifted with such thick craniums!”
A young man in an expensive suit slapped David across the face, leaving behind
an angry red mark on the pale skin, “You should be honored to have been chosen.”
“You dragged me here!” Engelon, a boy from the countryside looked at a coffin
in the room, his green eyes became an intense shade of blue, “Let him go.” Two knights
kept Engelon seated on a low chair.
“David, you know it’s a ‘him’ and not an animal we shoved into the coffin.
Amazing.” Members of secret society folded their arms, “Tell us who it is first David,
then we’ll let him go…maybe.” One of the knights brought out a sword, “Come on
David, do your trick, look inside the box. Otherwise I’ll just have to skewer him.” The
Sheff boy waved a broad sword and slid it into a narrow opening at the top of the box.
Whoever was inside the box began to kick urgently as the weapon penetrated the interior.
Robert Morris, one of the knights held up a hand, “That’s enough, you don’t want
to hurt him!”
David spat at Morris, “I can’t believe you’re one of them. Why are you doing this
Robert?”
The man from a wealthy family turned to Engelon, “David, join us and after you
graduate we can help you find a good job. We’ll take care of you.” Morris tried to be
persuasive even though he could barely stomach what his brothers were planning, “I am
trying to help improve your status in life.”
- 79 -
A knight of the order plunged the sword all the way through another opening in
the box quickly. The kicking in the box stopped. “Well? David, will you play along or
will this poor captive creature end up dead?”
Engelon stared at the box, “Let Kenziro go!”
Everyone in the tomb was astounded.
Morris stared at David, “It’s true, you have amazing vision. You can see
Kenziro!”
The leader of the order barked, “Just throw Engelon into the box so we can have
some fun!”
Inside the coffin, Yamagawa Kenziro was rubbing the rope binding his wrist
against the sword. The sword nearly impaled his leg the first time. This time the blade
came within a breath of his torso. He was close to freeing himself when the sword was
removed and the lid was suddenly opened. The Japanese student tried to leap up but
several hands pushed him back down. The knights tossed Engelon inside. Both Sheffield
students banged their heads against one another as they struggled. The room was filled
with laughter and the leader of the order added, “Ah! We forgot to remove their clothing
and let them have some privacy.”
Kenziro whispered, “Hey, David turn over and kick the lid come on! David?”
The young man on top was gripped with fear, “Can-can’t I hate closed spaces.”
He squeezed his eyes shut and pressed his face into Kenziro’s shoulder.
“Hurry up before they do something stupid to us David, kick the lid open!”
What’s wrong with him? “David?”
“I can’t breathe in here.” The country boy was gasping for air. Within moments
the velvet lined coffin was growing hot. It was designed for the dead not the living,
“Ken, I’m suffocating.”
The lid rattled slightly and a small opening allowed many of the Skull and Bones
members to peer inside the coffin, “Hey if you two friends start kissing then we’ll let you
out. Otherwise we may accidentally leave you in there over the weekend.” The members
of the club began to howl.
Engelon yelled, “Don’t leave us in here I can’t breath.” His voice was full of
panic.
- 80 -
Kenziro shoved David aside and reached towards the opening, “Let us out now
you bastard!”
A knight slammed the latch on his fingers and the Japanese yelped. They opened
it again slowly to look at the two trapped students, “David, Kenziro, give us a show now.
Last chance or you’ll be spending a couple of days together in there.” The society
members started to chant, “We want to see the both of you be more than just friends!”
Morris felt a deep sense of guilt welling up inside him. It was not his intent to
victimize his friends. His own initiation was very tame and not humiliating at all. Then
again, his father was a member and perhaps the group was easy on him.
A rock crashed through a window and interrupted their discussion on what to do
next to the men in the coffin. Several voices outside the tomb demanded that the
members open the door. Robert used the distraction to unlock the large casket. The
leader grabbed his arm, “You coward! How dare you betray us!”
Robert shoved the student back, “This has gone too far, I will no longer be a part
of this nonsense!”
The door of the tomb was kicked open and several Sheffield students rushed in,
eager to wreak havoc inside the forbidden room and attack the arrogant knights for
abducting their classmates. As tables were being overturn and chairs were being broken
against fallen men and walls, Morris dragged out Engelon and Yamagawa.
“Something is wrong with David!” The young Japanese gently slapped the side
of the blonde young man’s face. Morris shook the unconscious initiate, “His pulse is
racing!”
~~~~~~~~~~
1873 UNITED STATES
A fifteen-year old Japanese male stood waiting for the train which will take him
to Connecticut. Although many people walking by noticed the foreigner because of his
shiny black hair and his immaculate suit, the traveler was oblivious of their scrutiny. The
young man’s shoes were polished and his clothing too clean due to his fastidiousness in
brushing the dust off at every opportunity.
- 81 -
“I never thought I’d see one again! He looks mighty different from the ones I saw
in New York City in 1860,” mumbled a toothless old man.
His aged spouse grinned, “Wasn’t it 1861? Those sam-raay wore swords and
shaved their heads. This youngin doesn’t. Maybe he’s a different kind of Oriental?26”
“It’s hard to tell, they all look alike!”
The granny covered her mouth and giggled, “Look how he is smiling as he reads.”
She elbowed the great grandfather, “Pa, doesn’t he look pretty?”
“Only you would know Ma!”
“Awww, he’s a male China doll.”
Ono Ryuichi kept his single suitcase between his feet and scanned the paper he
received from Moriyama Arinori again and again. As soon as Ryuichi finished he would
start once more savoring each word as if he tried to commit the short letter to memory:
“Suzue-chan,
I have been calling you ‘chan’ for too long. Fortunately, your letter has reminded
me that now you are a man of fifteen years so I must cease that practice. You must ask
your father to decide on a new adult name for you. However, since you specifically asked
me for a recommendation I think ‘Suzue’ suits you. It is typically a woman’s name
however during the Edo Era it was not uncommon for men, artists, poets or thinkers to
adopt soft first names or pen names. Some young men have official first names which
sound feminine.
The Ministry of Education cannot spare any more funds for you, so be sure to
save for college. I understand that you wish to visit Yale University and meet with
another Japanese student there. Be careful not to offend Yamagawa Kenziro of Aizu. He
must still be angered over the 1871 recall 27. In that year it was Kenziro who helped find
26
The Tokugawa Shogunate (bakufu) sent a mission to the United States in 1860. The visitors traveled to several
states until 1861. SEE Miyoshi, Masao. As We Saw Them: The First Japanese Embassy to the United States. Paul
Dry Books, 2005.
27
There is a discrepancy as to when and how often Yamakawa was recalled. “Sutematsu’s brother Kenjiro
was studying physics at the Sheffield Scientific School at Yale in 1871, and was on those ordered to return
home.” (Kuno 58).Kuno noted the year 1871. However, in other sources Lucy Baldwin paid for only the
last year’s tuition (Yamakawa graduated in 1875). This may be the error of either Kuno or Watanabe.
“Yamagawa [Yamakawa] suddenly was ordered to return to Japan. He refused, however. Fortunately Lucy Baldwin,
the wealthy aunt of his friend Robert Morris, offered him financial assistance…” (Watanabe 11)
- 82 -
homes for the girls 28. See how much we Japanese can accomplish after we set aside old
grudges from the Civil War?
The draft note I enclosed is from my personal fund. Use it wisely and be on your
best behavior in Connecticut. You represent New Nippon and I know one day you will be
a key figure at home. If you need my assistance for any matter, write to me soon for my
term in the U.S. capital shall end soon.
Moriyama Arinori”
Suzue would not have to wait for his father’s suggestion because he did not even
bother to ask.
How would my father, a low level samurai educated in a temple and domain
school be able to grant me a name? Suzue was a name which would label me as an
intellectual a high achiever and a representative of New Nippon. True, Confucius
dictated that I must revere father, but my new name is an auspicious gift granted by
someone I actually respect. Now the pen is mightier than the sword. My father was just
a sword bearer. He does not even know A, B, C, D or E. If anyone should ask why I
have such a ‘soft’ name then I will explain that my mentor is the honored Moriyama-san
who replied to every single letter I have written each month. From now on I shall
introduce myself as the student of Moriyama-sama not as the son of Ono Satoshi. He
probably even reads all the essays I have sent him and keeps my drawings too. Yet he did
not comment on the portrait I drew of him. Didn’t Moriyama realize that I drew it from
memory? I shall ask him in my next letter. Maybe the pencil drawing became smeared in
the mail? Ono began to obsess over Moriyama’s lack of acknowledgment.
Father writes to me every month as well to discuss unimportant things, dull daily
life and his hand to mouth survival in the capital. He writes of a samurai’s honor when
the samurai are gone. Ono Satoshi’s letters, his son concluded, were not all that
valuable. So why keep them and clutter my desk?
He traced his finger over the diplomat’s beautiful calligraphy and smoothed the
letter carefully and inserted it into his notebook, which also held meticulously labeled
28
“…Mori asked Kenjiro to help him find host families for the girls.” (Kuno 74) The writer mentions that
Yale archives still contain letters by Kenjiro regarding the matter of finding American host families.
- 83 -
pressed dried flowers and leaves. He studied botany in his spare time at the suggestion of
Moriyama. Suzue saved every letter from the diplomat.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO EVENING
A tall burly man carrying a heavy box full of files and other items entered a
medium sized estate in the Koishikawa area of Tokyo. Inspector Fujita walked through
the garden and kicked his shoes off quickly. Inside the spacious living room were two
men still in their day suits hunched over a go, chessboard. Fujita dropped the box to get
the attention of the thirty-two-year old fellows, “Where is everyone? It’s quiet.”
Takahashi Hideo pushed his brass frame glasses up his nose, “Mother went out
with---well you ought to know! She went with your Tokio to the music hall. There’s a
concert tonight.”
Yamagawa still had his eyes on the round black and white pieces on the wooden
board, “Gorou, have you been home lately?”
Fujita came to Takahashi’s place to relax and talk not to be questioned, annoyed,
he replied, “I’ve been away from my family for several days working on a case. Tokio
knows that when I am working I sleep at the station. Besides she is very unpleasant when
she is with child.”
Yamagawa leaned back on his palms, “You must tell us about this case Gorou!”
As usual he was eager to escape his dull teaching life at Tokyo University by listening to
Fujita’s stories.
“It’s actually an old case,” Gorou looked back and forth between these two men
who were the exact opposite in appearance and personality. Yamagawa Kenziro was tall,
solemn and a careful thinker, while Takahashi Hideo was short, loquacious and easily
excitable. Both were educated in the United States, successful in the world of academics
and had good jobs in this enlightened era. Although their origins as Aizu samurai gave
them vastly different backgrounds from that of Fujita, in the end their intersecting paths
after the civil war of 1868 made their friendship strong. They will be very helpful to me
Gorou insisted to himself they have to be.
- 84 -
“No more games you two.” Fujita quickly cleared the go pieces with his hand and
dropped them into a bowl.
Takahashi was frustrated, “Gorou, I was winning this time!”
The older man smiled, “No you were not. He had you surrounded. You can never
beat Kenziro at this game, now if you two would be so kind as to drag that box in closer.”
“Is it a present for us?” Hideo rubbed his hands together.
“Far from being a presento29 and do not open it until I return. I need to get a
bottle of sake.” Fujita was almost out of the room.
Takahashi stopped him, “Mother used all of it for cooking already” as he glanced
towards the mysterious box.
Kenziro was surprised by the weight of the container and blew the dust off the
cover, “Hideo have you written to your cousin Numazawa Shichiro? Of all the people in
our generation he saw the most action during the war. He and Gorou met at the prison
camp if you recall. Shichiro ought to write something about the war.”
“Well he still,” Hideo placed a finger at his temple, “thinks of those days very
often. He only told me this story of the time Gorou stopped him from strangling a boy
from Satsuma. After I heard that I felt it best to not press him on the matter. Besides he
has better things on his mind.”
Kenziro nodded, “You’re right he’s going to adopt the baby Tokio is still
carrying.”
The two men stopped speaking abruptly because the adoption between families
was to be an absolute secret.
Gorou returned to the room and smiled, “You are such a bad liar Hideo.”
“How did you know I was lying?”
Fujita poured the sake into a shallow bowl, “Because you looked away when you
told me your dear mother used up all of the alcohol.”
“Tokio will criticize me if she knew I allowed you to drink at my house,” Hideo
seemed to shrink in fear at the mere thought of his cousin.
Gorou looked at his other friend, “Now our friend Kenziro here is different.”
29
Presento was the common pronunciation of the word “present” in the Meiji Era. Occasionally, even
today you will note that Japanese will add an extra syllable to English words.
- 85 -
“Why are you calling me a liar Gorou?” The young scientist folded his arms
defensively.
Hideo sarcastically reprimanded his friend, “Kenziro how dare you try to deceive
our great Yamaguchi Jiro, defender of Aizu-han!”
Gorou sighed, the two men were not in a serious mood, “Remember, there is no
Yamaguchi Hajime, Saitou Hajime, Yamaguchi Jiro or Ichinose30 Denpachi. There is
only Fujita Gorou now. My fifth and last name.”
He cleared his throat and commanded, “Kenziro put your business card on the
table and we’ll see if you are a liar.”
“Anything to amuse you old friend,” Kenziro put his personal card with his name
and title printed in both Japanese and English on the low table.
“This is not an amusing matter,” Fujita smoothed his moustache and lifted his
eyebrow, “Remember Kenziro, three years ago during that case…”
“No not that case again. Please let it go!” Kenziro closed his big eyes and shook
his head, “You have become obsessed.”
A low laugh, nearly a growl came from Fujita’s chest, “Of all people. You two
ought to know that I never let go of anything that easily. It is not obsession but
determination.” He brought Kenziro’s card up close to his sharp eyes and pointed at the
English, “What are these two characters?”
“Those are Y and K. Kenziro’s initials Gorou,” Hideo leaned in close.
“So it is Kenziro,” Gorou smiled at Kenziro who had become agitated.
The physicist from Tokyo University stammered, “Gorou I don’t have anything to
do with what Ono Suzue did that night at the Rokumeikan. I’m your friend not a
suspect.”
Gorou took a sip of his sake, “Of course Kenziro, I never said you were a suspect.
But three years ago you never mentioned you were connected to him. There were not
very many students who were sent by the government to study in America. You all had
to know each other.”
30
There are even Japanese websites which note his name as “Ichinohe”. This error is due to a publisher
misprint in a book. In all fairness, a couple of the most prominent men in the Meiji Era had names which
are misread in our times. For instance, Toshiyoshi Kawaji, the Chief of Police, is actually Toshinaaga
(Toshinaga) however because so much material noted the incorrect name---many scholars stick to the
inaccuracy so people know they are referring to the same man.
- 86 -
“Drop this issue,” Kenziro was thoroughly flustered, “I do not know what you
mean by ‘connected’.”
Fujita turned to Hideo who was rummaging through the box without permission,
“Be careful with evidence from the crime scene Takahashi. Everything in there
was saved from the fire. Just books it seems.”
“No, there are a few reports here in German about the Beyer company,” Hideo
dropped a partially burned book out of shock., “Wait. These are from the crime scene?”
He gasped.
Gorou sighed, Hideo has a wonderful talent for restating the obvious so he
cornered the other man and held up the book, “Y and K is probably you Kenziro, this was
until now a guess of mine. I am of course not familiar with the barbarian languages so I
had to ask to be sure.” Gorou opened the burned book, “This book was owned by both
Kenziro and Ono Suzue.”
Hideo pulled the book out of Gorou’s hand and examined it, “Kenziro this is your
handwriting in SIX LECTURES ON THE PHILOSOPHY OF MESMERISM by John
Bovee Dods published in 1847.31”
Kenziro massaged his brows as if he was struck by a sudden headache, “Gorou
how did you get access to this box? Didn’t you lose your pension after that debacle at the
Rokumeikan? It nearly cost you your job. Why are you doing this?”
“Yes, but I have a very special female patron who is helping me this time. She is
making all this possible, including my promotion and reinstatement of my pension.”
Gorou was pleased with himself, “I have to spend many evenings with her due to a new
assignment. It is she who wishes for me to pursue this further.”
Hideo was alarmed, “Another woman Gorou? But what about Tokio and your
children!”
“I assure you that her generosity towards me, and my utmost loyalty to her is
completely pure,” he laughed at Hideo’s suggestion, “Although her beauty is indeed
stunning. Should I tell Tokio about this female patron of mine, I’m afraid even my little
arrogant wife would have to cower at the mere mention of her illustrious name.”
31
Dods, John Bovee, 1795-1872. Six lectures on the philosophy of mesmerism delivered in the Marlboro’ Chapel,
Boston. Reported by a hearer. New York, Fowlers and Wells, 1847. Vol. 3, no. 4, of a collection with
binders’s title: Houdini pamphlets; hypnotism.
- 87 -
“Tell us Gorou!” Hideo was intrigued, “Where do you get the time for these
special assignments or shall I say the energy?” He laughed at his own insinuation, “I can
keep a secret.”
Fujita grinned, he had to admit that the unnamed woman did flatter him by
requesting him to frequently escort her, “Business first.” Gorou smoothed his moustache
and chuckled.
He turned to the young physicist and assumed a serious tone, “Kenziro you must
cooperate. Before I came here I have already spoken to your sister in the presence of my
female benefactor. Please speak freely. I must insist.”
Kenziro looked into Gorou’s eyes, “I was trying to help a friend, but Suzue
misunderstood. This has nothing to do with that night at the Rokumeikan, I assure you.
This happened years ago when we were both very young and foolish.”
~~~~~~~~~~
1873 NEW HAVEN CONNECTICUT UNITED STATES
A blonde young man sat facing a box in the small parlor. His intense blue eyes
were focused on seeing the object inside the box. Students from the science department
at Yale University surrounded the man in deep concentration. All of them hoped that
David Engelon would prove the professors wrong next week when he exhibits his talent
before them.
David began to take deep breaths, he chewed the bottom of his lip and the objects
in the box began to appear as grey outlines in his mind. Finally he said slowly, “It’s a
fork…and a knife. The fork is on the right with the sharp end pointing towards me.”
Everyone in the room applauded and shouted. Yamagawa Kenziro rushed to the
princely youth, “You did it! Amazing!” Kenziro’s smile faded when he saw how pale
David’s face had become.
He whispered, “Ken, take me to my room. You have to help me now.”
The other boys tried to prevent the two from retreating upstairs and urged them to
stay. Once they saw that Kenziro and David could not be dissuaded, they shifted their
attention to the fifteen-year-old Japanese visitor named Ono Suzue. Many of the students
- 88 -
had wondered why the two Japanese did not interact. Pupils of the Sheffield Scientific
School certainly wanted to hear them speak their strange language and perhaps even
show them some of that famed samurai sword fighting. It was as if the Orientals did not
acknowledge the existence of the other.
David collapsed on the bed and Yamagawa searched his friend’s jacket for the
gold pocket watch.
The blue eyes focused on the watched held above his face. David pulled himself
up slightly on the pillow so he can see the shiny object better, “Kenziro, remember what I
showed you.” He loosened the top of this shirt and massaged his own chest. Yamagawa
nodded, “David maybe this is not worth it. You should stop all of this.”
“No, I need to keep practicing. I just felt a bit tired today that’s all,” He took a
deep breath, “It was my fault anyways. I should not have shown anyone I could do this.
They’ll drive me out of the school if I don’t clear my name.” The stakes are high and so
is the risk to my health.
The Japanese student and David both understood what it was like to be isolated.
Kenziro was an exceptional student during his time at Nisshinkan, Aizu’s school for
samurai, but in America he had to learn the language and catch up to all the subjects. He
started from the bottom.
David could not be more out of place at Yale. The Engelon family was simple
farmers. Although happy, the couple was childless until their church pastor offered them
a male baby he found near the railroad. David was raised as their son but taught to
understand that he belonged to a larger family ruled by benevolent God.
Kenziro could not abandon his classmate, “Show me the method again David. I
have only read of this art.”
“It’s a science. Maybe it will be a science one day.” David steadied Kenziro’s
wrist, “The watch needs to be right in front of me, you don’t need to move it, the light
reflecting on the edge is enough.”
- 89 -
- 90 -
Gorou frowned, “How were you helping him Kenziro?”
“Mesmerism,” Kenziro looked suddenly guilty, “It is not a popular practice.”
Hideo added, “It’s also called mental electricity,” He opened the book
PHILOSOPHY OF MESMERISM and turned to page twelve, “it is the direct impulse of
mind upon the minds and bodies of others…it is the science of mind and its powers…and
transcends all others as godlike mind transcends matter.”
The officer laughed, “This is what you have learned in America? Barbarians are
amazed by such things? We have our shamans here in Japan and they do the same things
without this lightening of the mind.”
Kenziro shook his head, “Well the lightening is more like the energy of the mind.
But perhaps the mind is like real electricity 32. We do not know. Yet. What westerners
do with mesmerism is similar to what our shamans and oracles practice but there are
differences.”
~~~~~~~~~~
David’s pulse slowed and he closed his eyes. Yamagawa pulled a blanket up to
the seraph’s chest. These practice sessions were draining him at a dangerous rate.
Earlier in the year he could entertain people for hours by guessing what was in their
pockets or see objects hidden in a drawer. Lately, he could only concentrate for short
periods of time. Although his accuracy has never waned it seemed to deplete his energy.
What was an amusing ability gradually became a curse as more people took notice.
The student from Aizu pushed open his bedroom door and found an unwelcome
guest, “What are you doing here?”
Suzue was reading one of his books, “I was bored.” He glanced at Kenziro
disparagingly, “I saw some of your notes. You’re still making spelling errors.”
“How rude of you to look through my books and schoolwork,” Kenziro narrowed
his eyes.
Ono laughed, “YOURS? These books were purchased with the government’s
money therefore I, as another student on scholarship, can read them. I thought you were
32
The possible connection between the mind and electricity was theorized very early on. The following is a quote
from a medical doctor and practitioner, “I am at the present time engaged in experimental researches, the object of
which is to determine the nature of the relations which may be established between animal magnetism and electricy;
but the results which I have attained are not yet fit to place before the public." (Teste 191)
- 91 -
to study civil engineering and physics. These books are about spiritualism and
metaphysics, none of which are in your field.”
“Get out, I don’t have time for you Suzue,” Kenziro took off his jacket and put his
hands on his hips. He was taller than Ono and confident of his martial skills, which were
honed in Aizu33.
Ono of Satsuma held the book to his chest, “But you have time for David.”
“I’m warning you Suzue,” Yamagawa cracked his knuckles, “Get out you potato
samurai. 34”
“You call me a potato samurai. And what are you Aizu samurai? You were
nothing but enemies of His Majesty, and sore losers.” He smoothed his hair back, “I’ll
leave after you tell me what you do to David behind closed doors,” Ono smiled, “If you
cannot tell me then I can always guess. After all, you walk in and out of his room
frequently in the evening.”
He knew that if he so much as laid a finger on Ono he would be recalled to Japan,
but the implication of Suzue’s words disgusted him, “It’s Satsuma samurai who are
known to fall upon each other Suzue 35. You have a woman’s first name. I hope the
older warriors did not mistake you for one.”
The fifteen year old was delighted to see his arrogant opponent so livid,
“Yamagawa-san you are more than welcome to test my masculinity. But I don’t have
time for that right now. You and David help each other with this hoax. I know it.”
Suzue took several steps towards Kenziro and tilted his head up slightly to look into those
intimidating eyes.
33
Aizu’s Nisshinkan offered a varied martial arts curriculum however it is hard to pinpoint which year students
actually began to study self-defense.
34
After Matsudaira Katamori, daimyo of Aizu had issued his decree, “We have now been told that the government has
ordered several domains to punish Aizu with military force. If their troops advance to our borders, we have no choice
but to make full preparations for war. I therefore entreat you to unite as one…” (Shiba 41), people in Aizu began to
make preparations and they singled out Satsuma, their former ally, as the enemy (even though a number of domains
marched against Aizu-han). “ ‘Potato samurai’ was what we called [them]…we knew the people of Satsuma, too poor
to eat rice, lived on a diet of sweet potatoes [Satsuma-imo].” (Shiba 42)
35
I read this in a book which details homosexuality in Japan. The practice of dressing one young man prettily and
placing him at the head of an advancing army was a tradition which was meant to bring good luck. The chosen young
man would be asked to serve sake and the other warriors would “fall on him”. This was specifically a Satsuma-han
practice. As much as I would like to quote the book---I forgot the title and wouldn’t be able to find it now.
- 92 -
Kenziro choked, “Hoax? You’ve seen with your own eyes that David has never
been wrong. Next week he will show the entire campus that he is not a fraud. Then
finally everyone will leave him alone.”
“Liar!” Suzue hissed.
“Then I’ll tell you,” Kenziro lost his patience and shoved Suzue towards the door,
“He has this unusual ability but there are limits. It’s all real.”
He slammed the door shut and realized that bastard Suzue took my book!
~~~~~~~~~~
Fujita Gorou closed his eyes for a moment, “This mesmerism can slow the heart
as you said. Can it fool the mind?” Gorou recalled how Nakanishi-sensei’s words in the
office of the Dai Keishi, Chief of Police, “My friend Nakanishi, could not remember how
and why he gave the cards to Ono.”
“Some people become lethargic 36 and cannot recall what they say or do while
under the suggestion of the operator. However, most people can remember what they
were asked to do,” Kenziro added, “There are variations of this science and different
affects on people. Trance for instance is merely a deep state of relaxation and there is no
control over the subject at all.”
Hideo turned to page sixty-seven of THE PHILOSOPHY OF MESMERISM,
“Yes, one may even apply ‘local magnetism [to]…some part of the human body…Hence
the finger, the hand, the arm, the leg…may be magnetized while the person is in the
wakeful state’ and surgeries are conducted without pain. So yes it can command the
mind.”
The officer shook his head, “Then one can tell another person to ignore pain? Tell
me how it is done. It is clear to me this is a dangerous and dark art.”
Kenziro spoke softly, “It can be dangerous. As for how it is done, one can use
your own presence like voice, eyes, fingertips or an object. Even a glass of water.
Essentially, anything to relax the person.”
36
"The dangers of the patient are due to the fact that some persons are so profoundly affected as to become absolutely
passive in the hands of the operator. They are wholly insensible to pain, and, to a certain extent, unconscious of
everything which may happen during hypnosis...they are unable to remember a single incident that occurred during
their sleep. Such person's may be called "'lethargic'". (Kingsbury 117)
- 93 -
“You mean the victim,” Gorou was deep in thought, “Can one resist this mental
attack?” In his youth, Fujita had seen all modes of bare handed and armed -attacks, none
are perfect. But this was a different non-physical art. “There must be a mode of defense.”
“Not if the person has the ability to see or hear, but some people are more hard to
throw into the state,” Hideo added, “However talented operators can hypnotize even
those who try to resist.”
~~~~~~~~~~
The demonstration was only two days away 37. All the occupants of the house
had returned from a special dinner at Professor Blakeman’s home. Suzue had stayed
behind to prepare a simple meal for himself and a treat for his hosts. Before they could
change out of their formal evening attire he told them to go back outside. They all rushed
to the large tree where the young oriental had left several opened bottles of moonshine
for them.
“Everyone is enjoying the liquor,” Yamagawa leaned against the kitchen
doorframe.
Ono wiped a wooden spoon dry, “Yamagawa, why don’t you join them outside
and relax?” And you will feel better once you taste the drink.
“I don’t accept gifts from thieves,” Kenziro watched Suzue clean a small pot,
“You haven’t returned the book to me Suzue.”
“I’m not done reading THE PHILOSOPHY OF MESMERISM, yet.” He said
curtly.
Kenziro realized that it was futile. The bastard was not going to give it back,
“You should have come with us to have dinner. It was more delicious than the soup or
whatever it is that you made for yourself.”
“I’m a good cook,” and novice chemist, Ono looked up and smiled.
37
Aizu samurai Yamagawa (Yamakawa) Kenjiro who “learned multiplication at sixteen,” and “had difficulties
dividing two-digit numbers,” (Watanabe 7) was sent to the United States and admitted to the Sheffield Scientific
School of Yale University. He later became the first Japanese professor of physics, successfully duplicated Rontgen’s
X-ray experiment, and eventually became President of Tokyo University. He was asked to witness the controversial
clairvoyance experiment in the early 20th century conducted by Dr. Fukurai Yukichi which ended in tragedy.
Yamakawa did not enter the experiment as a skeptic, in fact his “…interest in clairvoyance dated back to his stay in
America, where, he had witnessed clairvoyance experiments at the Sheffield Scientific School (Yale) with a student
who had become known for his extraordinary perceptive abilities. This left a lasting impression on Yamagawa.”
(Watanabe 17) Watanabe, Masao. The Japanese and Western Science. University of Pennsylvania Press, 1991.
- 94 -
Kenziro opened a cabinet and pulled out a hidden bottle of wine and walked
outside to join his buddies.
Suzue looked out the window and carefully watched the shadowy figures hold up
the glass bottles. Ono opened his notebook and glanced over the recipe and proportions
he divided amongst each young man.
“Hey this is the usual stuff we get every month.” Jonathan laughed.
Robert looked inside his empty bottle, “But it’s better,” he pointed at the label and
tilted his head back to laugh, “I don’t care to know why---but it works faster than usual.”
Their simple banter resulted in circular conversations. Some rolled on their backs
and stretched themselves out on the grass to look at the rapidly moving stars. A student
noticed that the moon began to emit a rainbow of colors. Jonathan thought he saw a
panther in the bushes. “No, no it’s the devil in New Haven!” said Brian and he began to
chuckle uncontrollably. Everyone seems so happy Kenziro sipped the cheap drink
straight out of the bottle and wondered when he would be in a similar state.
Suzue quickly finished the letters he was writing in Japanese when David came
into the living room and slumped into the chair. He stretched his long legs and dug his
fingers into the armrest.
“Japanese looks so beautiful,” Engelon’s eyes changed to a deep green color as he
watched the calligraphy.
Suzue turned to David and stopped. He was captivated by David’s ethereal face.
Not as beautiful as you. Ono blew on the thin paper softly to be sure the ink dried,
“David, you seem tired. Are you all right? You must preserve your strength…”
“Don’t remind me,” the young man sighed, “I will not fail” and squeezed his eyes
shut and tried to block out the singing coming from outside. “Maybe I can have just a
little bit of that stuff you bought. A sip won’t hurt me,” He was about to get up when
Suzue placed his hands on the armrest and leaned in, “No, leave them alone. Besides,
this will give us some time to talk” Suzue placed a hand on the American’s arm, “David,
tell me how you do the trick.”
David looked into the Ono’s eyes, “It’s not a trick.” He smiled shyly.
- 95 -
The younger man bent in closer, his face only a breath away from the American,
“You can trust me.” He touched the small rose bud on the American’s jacket. Red on
black, colors which did not suit one who should wear white thought Ono. He became
aroused at the thought that while David was older, he was still innocent. I can be his first
mused the Japanese student.
“I do trust you. We’re friends now. I’m telling you the truth,” David pulled
himself up in the chair. Move back Suzue, he commanded but his mouth would not obey.
Engelon had noticed the visitor since the first day. While both Suzue and Kenziro
possessed an air of arrogance, the former had features that at a certain angle seemed to be
a mixture of masculine and feminine.
Stop.
Don’t.
His inhibitions were shattered when Suzue quickly moved in for a kiss. David’s
head was pressed against the back of the chair and he became captive to Ono’s tongue
and caresses. The fierce exploration of his mouth set David’s body on fire. Suzue held
the angel’s face with one hand as the other explored his chest and abdomen. When David
pulled him closer with his strong arms, it only encouraged Suzue’s boldness. David
moaned when Suzue’s teeth scraped the thin skin along his neck. He grabbed Suzue’s
wrist, “Stop”. Suzue moved his hand away from David’s inner thigh.
The young men had only been drinking for an hour but they drained all the bottles
of the alcohol quickly. The short walk back to their home seemed to take an eternity and
some felt comfortable cutting the journey short by collapsing on the grass unconscious.
One crumpled onto the carpeted floor still repeating a joke someone told several minutes
ago. Another placed his head on the kitchen table. As the night crept on and each
student settled into a deep slumber the one from Aizu curled up on the landing of the
stairs like a lazy cat. The usually disciplined students turned into complete drunkards
from Suzue’s generosity.
“Suzue, I can’t take it,” David’s entire body was slick with sweat, but his
dominating lover was relentless. Ono felt the young man’s frame tremble slightly when
- 96 -
he reached in to squeeze the hard cock under him. The heat of Suzue’s lithe body and the
intoxicating painful pleasure caused his blood to roar in his veins. Suzue partially
withdrew his shaft and the resulting emptiness forced David to push himself backwards,
impaling himself on the hot flesh. David grabbed a pillow and bit down on it to muffle
his own cries of ecstasy as he felt Suzue fully inside him. Ono tilted his head back and
his fingers dug into the fair man’s waist, “David…you…are wonderful,” he sighed.
Every part of David smelled of candles and flowers even his sweat was sweet. Suzue
pushed Engelon down on the bed and hooked up his knee and thrust inside the inflamed
body. Even after his partner moaned for him to stop, Ono continued to force David to the
brink again and again. He growled in Engelon’s ear, “Surrender.” Tears slid down
David’s cheeks, “only to you,” and he held Suzue’s arm as he climaxed. Sensual lips
kissed the side of the seraph’s face where the tear had stopped. Before settling down on
top his lover to rest, Suzue massaged David’s hot cum across the muscular abdomen and
stared into those green heavenly eyes. After his hunger was sated, Suzue finally cooled
against his angel’s body and he occasionally flicked out his tongue over Engelon’s chest.
David was relieved that Suzue had pulled him into this physical realm. He never
imagined that it would be a younger stranger from a far away land who would make him
a mortal of flesh and blood. For so long he was the delicate pure creature his parents had
isolated from the hard labor of the farm. From that loving protectiveness grew an intense
shyness and fierce desire to maintain his innocence. Engelon never dared to court a
woman or even looked upon the other male students as they swam or undressed. He was
too afraid of become aroused or tasting physical attraction. Finally, Suzue had set him
free. As the American ran his fingers through the raven black hair he suddenly felt as if
shards of glass pierced his chest. David gasped, “Suzue! Suzue! Get Kenziro.”
Ono opened his eyes, the side of his face was pressed on David’s bare chest,
“Kenziro?”
David’s eyes, just moments ago were full of pleasure and satisfaction now
became pools of fear, “Hurry, Suzue, get him.”
Suzue ran down the stairs and nearly tripped over Kenziro. He kicked the
unconscious man, “Wake up! David wants you!” Yamagawa swatted at the foot but still
kept his eyes closed.
- 97 -
Back inside the room, he saw David on the floor crawling towards the small
dresser, “My watch. Hurry. I can’t do this alone.”
The sharp pain at his side did rouse Ken from the deep sleep. Yamagawa slowly
pulled himself up the stairs, “What does that bastard want?”
He walked by David’s room and saw the door open. Suzue was shirtless and
looming over the naked blonde on the floor.
“Put down the watch Suzue! You don’t know what you are doing!” Kenziro
crouched by his friend. Yamagawa used his thumb to massage David’s brow. His eyes
are rolled back. Pulse normal. It took only a moment to put him in the state. After they
placed David into the bed, Suzue spoke, “I did it. I understand everything now. The
book was right.”
Kenziro snatched the pocket watch from his hand, “You were successful because
David has conditioned himself to respond to the watch. Don’t do this again Suzue.”
“Why not? This is ALL real. It works.” Suzue held the watch in his palm
amazed, “Does the watch enable his special sight as well?”
“No, he was born with that gift,” Yamagawa placed the watch near the bed, “The
watch holds no power.”
Gorou frowned, “Why did this man need help? He should be able to put himself
in the state on his own correct?”
“Here. I found it! Page sixty-six, ‘Never allow any person of a poor constitution
to put you into this state; and… those who are diseased, or even in delicate health, never
to mesmerize others, for they will, by so doing, inflict upon themselves a serious
injury.’38” Hideo closed the book, “It would have been dangerous for David to do so.
Besides he relies on others to wake him.”
Kenziro agreed, “Correct, he never slept the entire night that way. I generally
revived him after a few hours so he could sleep naturally.”
“This Ono had plenty of money. I’m sure he received more funds than Kenziro
and I when we studied in America. How could he afford so many books?” Hideo brought
38
Dods, John Bovee, 1795-1872. Six lectures on the philosophy of mesmerism delivered in the Marlboro’ Chapel,
Boston. Reported by a hearer. New York, Fowlers and Wells, 1847. Vol. 3, no. 4, of a collection with binders’s title:
Houdini pamphlets; hypnotism.
- 98 -
out another volume whose pages were curled by the water used to extinguish the fire,
"Deleuze states in his book 39, ‘Among the person who have been magnetized many
times, there are some who can, of their own accord, throw themselves into the magnetic
state. I think it a faculty they ought never to employ; because, by exercising it, they
acquire the habit of concentration, which may fatigue the nervous system, and become
injurious...’"
Gorou commanded, “All right, I understand now. No need to interrupt. Let
Yamagawa tell his story.”
Yamagawa continued…
During Sunday morning service, the botanist Professor Blakeman whispered to
Professor Mayo, “None of the boys from the house are here.”
“I wonder if they and David are conducting another session. The university ought
to give the Sheffield boys their own dorm. If anything they must not be left to their own
devices.” Mayo massaged his beard covered chin, “Let’s pay them a visit.”
The two instructors left the church determined to stop the endless nonsense,
which has been surrounding David Engelon.
“Did you get a letter with their seal on it?”
Mayo nodded, “You mean from the lifetime members of Skull and Bones? Yes
those boys must have informed their parents on what happened during the initiation.
They want us to get rid of Engelon.”
Blakeman shook his head, “The society has become too powerful. I’ll not bend to
their orders—we must be fair to Engelon. Agreed?”
“Yes.”
Suzue gathered the bottles, which were still on the grass. If I could get the weight
and height of each drinker I can adjust the formula for myself. It worked too well, they
responded almost immediately and overslept. He smiled childishly at his small victory.
39
Deleuze, J. P. F. (Joseph Philippe Francois), 1753-1835. Practical instruction in animal magnetism. Edition: Rev.
ed. With an appendix of notes by the translator, and letters from eminent physicians, and other, descriptive of cases in
the United States. Publisher: New York, Fowler and Wells Co.; London, L.N. Fowler & Co. [1879] (page 151)
- 99 -
Professor Mayo and Blakemen entered the house and found all the boys still
snoozing in the same clothes. The botanist looked at the small pot and wooden spoon on
the counter. He narrowed his eyes when he noticed the brown stain on the cooking
utensil. Blakeman sniffed the spoon, it smells familiar. Yamagawa slowly walked down
the stairs and buttoned his shirt. He was still dizzy from the hangover but woke up
quickly when he saw the professors in the living room.
“Mr. Yamagawa you will tell us exactly what happened last night.” Mayo took
Yamagawa by the elbow, “First let’s step outside.” They headed to the tree where Suzue
was still cleaning the mess.
Kenziro explained what had transpired and walked ahead of the old men. He
yelled in Japanese, “Oy, Suzue we’re all in trouble so take the blame. It is your fault.”
Ono clutched the bottles to his chest and held up the bottle of wine, “Professors,
I’m so glad you came. I was picking up after my friends. They must all still be
intoxicated. I’m surprised Mr. Yamagawa is even up on his feet after finishing this entire
bottle himself.”
Mayo glared at the student, “Kenziro, I see that my trust in you is misplaced.”
Yamagawa stammered, “But Professor he bought all of the liquor for us!”
May glared at the Japanese man, “However, your friends made their own personal
decisions to enjoy the drinks. Leave Mr. Ono out of this.”
Blakeman grabbed a small bottle from Ono and turned it in his hands, “Trying to
shift the blame to a guest Kenziro? Tell your friends that all of you are now under a strict
curfew. If something even remotely similar to immoral behavior should occur again then
the participants will be under consideration for expulsion.”
Suzue smirked at Kenziro, “If you will excuse me, I must dispose of these.”
Blakeman sniffed the bottle, “Curious. This is not just moonshine.
It’s…cannabis sativa…in a liquid form no doubt. I can still smell it. If the substance is
not heated to a certain temperature the smell still lingers. The spoon in the kitchen was
tainted brown. It had to have been prepared there. No wonder all the boys are still
asleep.”
Yamagawa raised his voice, “None of us know how to prepare cannabis. It was
Suzue! He was in the kitchen.”
- 100 -
Mayo lifted his eyebrow, “Mr. Yamagawa you carefully omitted your own
drinking last night and now you want us to believe Mr. Ono is responsible? You are
dismissed from this discussion. We have our own way of solving this issue.”
Blakeman clenched his teeth, “Outrageous! Do you think it is due to the
spiritualism David has been championing amongst the students? These charlatans are
always accompanied by intoxicants.”
Mayo was beyond angry, “They preach unscientific ideas to corrupt the mind and
now clearly they are out to destroy the body as well.”
The botanist grinned, “Don’t worry professor, it will end with the demonstration.”
Hideo exclaimed, “Kenziro, he could have killed everyone with this experiment!
What is the purpose of subjecting everyone to cannabis?”
“It was in his letter. The destroyed letter.” Gorou closed his eyes as he recalled
the details, “He mentioned that ‘During my time abroad I studied various sleep inducing
toxins and adapted them hoping they may be of use to human kind.’”
Yamagawa laughed sarcastically, “Not for human kind. For himself. Hideo,
Cannabis itself has the properties of a sedative, but yes something unfortunate could have
happened while everyone was under its influence. We realized how controversial things
had become when the professors arrived to supervise the demonstration…”
Engelon took Suzue’s hand, “They aren’t fools Suzue. There will be a trick. If
you see the object, repeat it in your mind over and over again. Keep your mind still and
listen for me.”
David’s dark haired lover leaned in close, “How will you hear me from the front
of the room?”
“Trust me Suzue, I can hear you. Help me. I need to win today. But I feel
weak—don’t know why.” In the shadows along the wall of the Sheffield School of
Science, they embraced. You are my heaven. I am yours Suzue. David buried his face
at the side of Ono’s throat he smells like dry leaves and sand.
I love you Suzue. Can you hear me?
- 101 -
The Japanese teenager widened his eyes, David what are you? No human can do
this. How can you speak without moving your lips?
After that night I am now and forever a human being just like you. I’ve always
have been human. I’m normal.
Inside the lecture hall, rows of students faced the front of the room. Professor
Mayo who specialized in anatomy silenced the chatter, showed the students the object,
then obscured it under a wooden box and asked that Mr. Engelon be brought inside the
room. David tapped Suzue’s shoulder lightly and smiled with confidence as he walked
towards the teachers.
“Mr. Engelon, you will be blindfolded by botany instructor, Professor
Blakeman…” Mayo was interrupted by Yamagawa, “Doctor, you do not need to do that
to David, he was not even in the room.”
All the other boys murmured in agreement.
Mayo smiled, “Are you all a bit anxious because this is not how you have been
conducting your practice sessions? Gentlemen, the faculty members are more than
aware of your time consuming antics. We will put and end to it all today, scientifically
and fairly.”
The bearded Professor Blakeman produced a large black cloth, folded it several
times and covered David’s closed eyes.
“Mr. Engelon will not be facing the box either,” Mayo guided David to the chair
and pressed the young man’s shoulders, forcing him to sit.
All the students and Yamagawa glanced at each other nervously. David always
needed to stare directly at the box to ‘see’ its contents. The scenario had changed
entirely.
“David, whenever you are ready you may reveal to us what I have placed under
the box.” Mayo and Blakeman smiled at each other.
Engelon squeezed his knees with his hands and began to chew his lower lip. His
heart began to beat faster. No. It’s too dangerous. They’ll laugh if I collapse. He began
to turn his head toward the youth who savored his innocence night before.
Suzue stared at Engelon and moved his lips slightly, mouthing the word, the
object, David had to see.
- 102 -
Suzue?
Ono looked around to see who was whispering to him. No one.
Suzue, it’s me, tell me what is in the box.
The young man from Satsuma whispered, “Sheep’s brain.” He closed his mouth
after realizing that he had expressed the words out loud.
Mayo elbowed his elderly, companion, “Look, that Japanese is saying
something.”
Blakeman agreed, “I see. However, David is too far to hear.”
Engelon leaned back in his chair, “Professor, it’s a sheep’s brain isn’t it?”
Everyone cheered while Suzue smiled, amazing, he spoke to me!
“Professor, then perhaps his gift is more powerful than we have imagined,” Mayo
surveyed the tense faces in the crowd.
The elderly teachers whispered to one another, “Can it be that he is not
penetrating the box with his special vision?”
“Or has he read the minds of the audience?”
Blakeman conceded, “He has the gift of seeing and hearing more…David is not
relying on physical faculties.”
Professor Mayo announced, “My colleague and I would like to conduct a special
test. We ask that all of you step outside for a moment.”
While the students milled around the front of the building, Yamagawa stealthily
attempted to peer into one of the windows to see the preparations.
“Kenziro, stop that. I’ll be fine.” Engelon seemed completely relaxed. I was
stronger before Suzue and I… David dismissed the thought. He was happy to be enjoyed
by another man. It should have nothing to do with how much of his ability seemed to
have diminished greatly since that night.
- 103 -
Yamagawa shrugged off the reassurance, “What if something happens to you?
You’re concentration is putting too much of a strain on your heart.”
“Ken, I’m not concentrating to see anymore. I’m listening. It’s different and I’ll
be all right.”
Suzue watched his man and that annoying samurai from Aizu intently. He has me
now. Why does he still speak to Kenziro? Engelon watched as the large doors opened
again to summon the witnesses back inside. He was the first to enter.
This time Blakeman addressed the crowd, “Mr. Engelon we would like you to
take an oath. Should you fail to see the contents of the box you must vow to never
engage in this practice or similar activity here at Yale University. We are here to study
the physical characteristics of the world. All of you are students of the scientific method
based on empirical evidence, not meta-physics, séances, ghost rappings or other
superstitions that confound the uneducated. Doctor Mayo and I are doing this for your
own good.”
David spoke like a messenger, “Professors, why must you draw a line between the
spiritual and material? They are in fact the same. However, we have not found the
bridge between the two realms yet.” Maybe we humans are not ready. Or still unworthy.
Suzue yelled, “Professors! There are more things in heaven and earth…Than are
dreamt of in your philosophy!” Everyone laughed and clapped at the reference to
Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
Mayo held up both his hands to silence the young men, “If we do not dispel these
beliefs right away then one day our university must consider essays about demons and
angels rather than the mechanics of the natural world.”
Engelon turned quickly to Mayo at the mention of angels. David’s voice rang out
in the large hall, “Maybe one day we will find angels and demons who walk amongst us
but likely they live in our hearts,” he pressed his hand to his chest, “Sadly, my abilities
are too limited to unveil those secrets to you.” He extended his arms out like a magician
at the end of an act and the crowd expressed their appreciation for his humor.
Blakeman sternly ended the speech, “Just answer the question Mr. Engelon, do
you accept our proposal?”
- 104 -
“Yes sir, I accept all your conditions.” David’s green eyes settled on Suzue who
was seated in the same location. Suzue did not see what was in the box. No one did this
time, I need to try something different.
Again he was blindfolded and had his back turned to the box.
Engelon tapped his knee with his fingers and tried to listen to Professor Mayo and
Blakeman’s mind. He exhaled, if only he could face them directly. It’s true, I lost some
of my ability after my night with Suzue. Why? He stifled a sob. How have I changed?
The blindfolded man turned his head slightly. After several minutes Suzue heard
David’s voice.
Suzue, concentrate, see inside the box and tell me.
I can’t David. I don’t have your ability
Try. We all do.
Suzue focused his eyes on the box. Nearly thirty minutes had passed. He saw
only a shadow.
Blakeman cleared his throat and Mayo glanced at the clock on the wall.
David I cannot see anything. It’s all dark.
Neither can I. This is due to the strange arrangement. I need to focus by facing
the box. I can only sense blackness.
Then stop. Don’t hurt yourself.
Suzue, I have failed. I’m going to lose everything.
No, you have me David. Always.
The Professors rushed to David who began to claw at the black clothe around his
head and stood up shakily.
“Professors, I can’t see anything. There is nothing at all.” David rubbed his eyes
before seeing the disappointed faces of his friends.
Mayo patted his back, “Mr. Engelon, you are a gentleman. Will you keep your
word?”
“Yes sir absolutely.”
Blakeman lifted the box.
Almost instantly, the room was filled with the noise of the wooden chairs moving
along the floor as the young men stood. They shouted “Foul! Foul!” Kenziro and several
- 105 -
boys ran to the front of the room with him, “He said he could not see anything. David
has proved his ability!”
Everyone was shocked to see that the surface of the table was completely bare.
Ono remained seated, I was right.
Why are they doing this to me? I want them to doubt everything they think they
know. If our hearts and minds are open, free and blooming we can achieve so much in
the world. David left the hall escorted by his companions.
Suzue had to return to school in a few days. He was going to leave but David was
spending his time with Kenziro and Robert. Why won’t he speak to me again in that
special way? We have not even touched each other again since that night. He placed his
hand over the two letters in his vest. Now is the time. Suzue walked to kitchen and found
his angel with that wretched samurai.
David patted Ken’s arm, “So when Suzue goes back to Japan will he have a good
job?”
“Certainly it is almost guaranteed. Japan needs capable men to modernize.”
Kenziro smiled, “I can help my country if I just had a bit more money to graduate.”
Robert Morris drummed his fingers on the table top, “Money is not a problem.
Hey, I can help both you out anytime. I still need to apologize about what happened in
the tomb.”
Engelon smiled, “I’m glad to hear that Suzue has a future waiting for him. Thank
you for everything guys. I’ve made my decision. I never belonged here to begin with.”
Suzue leaned on the doorframe and folded his arms, “What are you talking about
David?”
“I’ll tell you later Suzue. See you two in the morning.” He walked up the stairs
with Robert without looking back.
Ono uncharacteristically raised his voice, “Later?!? David I have to travel home
soon and prepare to move to Johns Hopkins this fall.” Suzue glared at Kenziro how dare
he compete for David’s affections.
David kept walking it’s easier this way Suzue. As much as I love you, we cannot
continue like this. You have a successful life ahead of you. I have my own path.
- 106 -
Ono could not hear the seraph. His mind was clouded by the mounting hatred
towards a perceived rival.
Suzue spoke in Japanese, “I need to talk to you outside Kenziro.”
“Is that a command?” Yamagawa folded his arms behind his head.
Ono sneered, “I’ll be giving you orders soon enough,” he opened the backdoor
and walked out into the evening.
The summer heat made the air heavy with moisture and Kenziro rolled up his
sleeves, “What is it?”
“Am I to depart Yale without a going away present?” Suzue folded his arms.
“Make your point Suzue.”
Ono pulled out the letter, “I want your books. If you don’t give them to me this
letter is going to Moriyama-sama in Washington D.C.”
“See if I care. Besides you stole the book by Dods already.”
“You ought to care Kenziro, in this letter I dutifully report how you neglect your
studies in favor of a relationship with a student. Pack your bags, and prepare to go
home.” Suzue waved the thin envelope in the air.
“Relationship? You mean friendship,” Yamagawa tried to grab the letter, “Why
would Moriyama listen to you?”
“Because I’m from Satsuma just like him. Besides he would be so disappointed
that the Imperial government mercifully gave its funds to an ungrateful enemy such as
yourself.” He did not finish his sentence when Kenziro shoved him to the floor and
snatched the paper. Kenziro tore it to pieces and threw them down on Suzue’s face.
Suzue hissed, “So protective of a few books on hypnosis when they are not yours
to begin with. They were bought with Imperial money.”
“The money came from the taxed peasants. Remember Suzue, samurai won the
war, not the people! We of the warrior class still control everything.” Kenziro dragged
Suzue up to his feet by his shirt.
“Of course I know that. It just depends on which group of samurai controls
everything. That’s what is most important.” Suzue dug his nails in Kenziro’s wrists,
“Our might in the war has made us right Kenziro.”
- 107 -
Yamagawa was tempted to strangle the obnoxious brat, “Forget it. I won’t give
you a single book. Why do you need to learn hypnosis? You can’t help David while you
are at a different university.”
Ono tried throwing a punch but Kenziro caught the swing and pinned his arm to
his back. Suzue gasped at the sudden pain, “Not help David. I need to know more to
help myself.”
The Aizu samurai loosened his grip, “Help yourself? What’s wrong with you?”
Yamagawa pushed Suzue face first to the ground.
Ono felt the ground with his hands, “It can help me sleep safely.” The brief lapse
in his opponent’s defense allowed Suzue to grab a sharp stone and smash it against the
side of Yamagawa’s head. The distinct cracking noise against bone delighted Suzue.
Kenziro staggered backwards from the shock and the flashing lights he saw in his mind.
His temple was burning. Blood.
Dazed, Kenziro fell on his back, “Sleep…everyone quickly fell asleep after
drinking that liquor. I knew it was you…” He clutched his head and groaned, “You’re
crazy!”
Suzue pounced. Crimson liquid poured onto the black leaves. Beautiful! Red on
black. If only I could see those colors better, smiled Suzue. He grabbed the side of
Kenziro’s head, squeezing the wound. The injured man screamed and tried to strike Ono.
Aroused by his superior position, Suzue pinned Yamagawa’s wrist to the earth.
“What does he see in you?” Suzue began to suck and nip at his victim’s throat
and jaw line. The attacker pushed his hand down the firm muscular torso and pulled
open the shirt. Yamagawa gritted his teeth, “Get off me!” He pulled up a knee to
unbalance Suzue off his body. The bleeding man tried to crawl away but Suzue grabbed
him again. As they struggled, the weakened man screamed for help desperately. Ono
tried to cover the protests with his hand and continued to draw his tongue up
Yamagawa’s neck. Stop resisting! The vicious hit with the back of his hand silenced Ken
for a moment. He stopped when he tasted the coppery liquid. Strange. Delicious.
Suzue unbuckled his prey’s belt. Kenziro’s free hand flew to the attacker’s collar then
throat. Yamagawa pushed his thumb into the base of Suzue’s neck. Ono began to cough
and choke when Yamagawa shouted for assistance one last time.
- 108 -
The lights in the house flickered and some of the other students ran outside
yelling, “What the hell is going on?”
They tackled Suzue and were in turn assaulted. It took several young men to drag
both of the Japanese inside. David ran down the stairs and saw his housemates standing
over Kenziro, who was on the couch moaning. Why is his shirt open? His belt…
Yamagawa’s blood covered his chest. Two students held Ono captive.
“David, look what this son of a bitch did to Ken!”
The others yelled, “We cannot stop the bleeding. Someone, get a doctor.”
Robert Morris shook with anger, “They were beating each other!”
Engelon looked at his beloved. Suzue’s mouth and face has blood on it. Ken’s
blood. Suzue’s beauty was heightened by his savagery but David saw something else in
those dark eyes. Lust. Cruelty. He ran upstairs.
Kenziro lost consciousness and never saw David hurl down Suzue’s suitcase. Or
how he yelled, “How dare you hurt Ken! We let you live here with us and you do this?
Why?”
“No wait!” Suzue held up his hands pleading, “David listen!”
I know what you were about to do to him Suzue, “You vile demon.”
Don’t call me that. Please no. Suzue pleaded knowing that David could hear him.
David cast Ono out into the darkness. Out of his life.
Back in his room, David wrapped the pillow about his head, preventing him from
hearing the other boys rush outside to hunt down Suzue who had disappeared into the
inky night. David had given his lover a chance to escape.
“Moriyama still received a letter from Ono. It was probably a duplicate of the one
I destroyed. Fortunately, he just encouraged me to study harder.” Kenziro’s mood
improved slightly as if telling the story relieved a burden, “David left Yale even after the
professors Mayo and Blakeman tried to convince him to stay. In a few months we
received news that David Engelon had died.”
It would be hard to imagine that the well-built unshaved man in dirty clothing was
once a student at a prestigious university. His golden hair gradually became deep brown
- 109 -
after leaving Yale. His eyes, although still lively and intelligent, always stayed green.
Engelon continued to do light work on his parents’ farm and supplemented their small
income by teaching at the school he once attended as a child. He alleviated the physical
strain on his heart by reciting passages of the Bible while he closed his eyes. As usual his
parents continued to vigilantly watch over his health.
His life seemed to be happy but there was never a day when he did not think of
the man who made him truly human. David condemned Suzue that night, but he wanted
their bond to be eternal. Engelon placed his gold pocket watch in Suzue’s suitcase.
Part of him hated how he placed love above justice. He only began to forgive
himself when Danae, a girl too young for school asked him in an outdoor prayer session,
“Does God love the wicked Mr. Engelon?”
“He loves everyone. Even the wicked, Danae.” I cannot stop loving Suzue. It is
my heart’s curse.
Today, he rode on horseback and walked for several hours with a group of
farmers and settlers. David knew that he had only one more hour until he had to rest of
the day, but this work had to be done. Occasionally he would stop to catch his breath and
moved his right foot along the moist cold earth and closed his eyes to listen. He searched
for the most vital element. The townsmen stayed behind Engelon who kept walking
ahead of the group. “Found at last,” he tapped his foot on the ground, “Dig the well
here.”
Just in time, I need to go home. He took several deep breaths. On the horizon
came another group of men riding their horses at full speed calling his name, “Mr.
Engelon! You have to help us find our girl! Please help us! She wandered out of the
house alone last night.”
The search for Danae took several hours. Try as he might the girl did not answer
the searchers’ cries. Nor did she answer David.
Danae, you know me, Mr. Engelon. You came to my service on Sunday. Where
are you little one?
The searchers traversed rugged terrain and slid down gullies, ran along streams
and looked under the thick brush for the lost girl. David stood in the middle of the group
and pleaded inside return my sight. Just one more time.
- 110 -
As the parents began to accept their loss, Engelon began to run towards a black
pond. He finally saw a gray outline of a small body.
Underwater.
No!
He waded into the thick mud and grass, which made every movement a struggle.
His lung began to burn from the exertion, “Follow me, her clothes are caught on a heavy
tree branch. Quick!” All the men jumped into the cold water and headed towards the
direction David had pointed. Danae was dragged out of the water lifeless. Anguish and
panic possessed the people on shore. As they caressed her cherub-like face, the
townspeople failed to notice that they left someone behind.
Engelon collapsed near the shoreline but refused to be ruled by the limits of his
body. David clutched the long grass and tried to pull himself out of the water. No
strength. Slowly the cold moved up his legs to his torso. As his heart spasmed in sudden
jolts, David looked up at the grey sky one last time There are more things in heaven,
earth and hell … his pupils widened and his green eyes became deep blue again, the
chilly air dried his mouth and throat, than they can imagine. Suzue and I are proof.
Suzue… The wind carried the Japanese name from his still lips as he faded out of
existence.
Fujita Gorou tapped the table with his fingers, “It is no longer important if I
understand all the workings of this art. What is key, is all this information from
beginning to end, from the case of Akemi, Kawano Tomoji, his trip to America with
Moriyama Arinori, Sutematsu and his youth are to be written for the one who will hunt
him.”
The two younger men were stunned. Yamagawa blurted, “Hunt him? How?”
“Ono could be in any country where he could use his language skills. I am sure
he has changed his name as well,” Hideo shook his head, “Even Japan’s foreign offices
cannot track all our people who now live and study abroad.”
Kenziro pointed to the box, “But you said there are reports from the Beyer
Company which is located in Germany.”
- 111 -
“Many science teachers receive such reports from various companies,” Hideo
added, “He could be in Europe or the United States.”
“In any case,” Gorou placed an envelope with the Imperial seal on the table, “I
trust both of you will be discreet with this matter. I would have asked the translators at
the Metropolitan Police Headquarters to write this report in English, however Her
Majesty would like this case to remain a secret. Besides you understand the unique
qualities of this …animal.”
Yamagawa thought he misheard Gorou’s words, “Her Majesty?” He stared at the
envelope with emblazoned Imperial seal.
“Yes, the woman who I am with in the evenings is the Empress, fool.” Fujita
placed a stack of papers, pens and inkwells before the men, “I’ll repeat what your sister
Sutematsu told the Empress. Stop asking questions and write. I will be personally
delivering everything to the British Legation tomorrow.”
Hideo looked at the clock on the wall, “We do not have enough time.”
“Correct, we are running out of time and so are his victims. I have no doubt that
he is up to something wherever he may be. Either someone kills him or he will continue
to feed on the innocent. That reminds me. Fully explain this dark art as well. The
person at the ‘yard’ should know. It sounds preposterous but for their safety they should
be aware of everything.” Gorou looked at the time, “Write about the pocket watch
Kenziro.”
“ ‘Yard’? What yard?” Yamagawa asked.
Fujita grew irritated by all the questions, “The Chief of Police once said that
Scotland Yard is the most skilled at solving crimes. So your writings will go to this
‘yard’.” He grumbled, “Start by listing the books and material we have from his home.
Do not miss anything.”
- 112 -
You can measure
a man’s height,
and a woman’s waist.
But one cannot
fathom the depth
Of their soul
And value of their lives.
- 113 -
- 114 -
Measurements
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO JAPAN
Fujita Gorou had to sit at the engawa, porch, even during a thunderstorm to smoke
a cigar. Tokio does not permit such things in the house. He was carefully examining a
stack of newspapers when his wife crept up behind him, “How could you afford that
cigar? The allowance I give you is not enough for such luxuries.”
The officer looked up at the small woman and removed the cigar from between
his teeth, “My honored lady gave it to me. She is very affectionate….”
Tokio turned her back and went to receive a guest at the front gate. The samurai
woman of Aizu descent snarled to herself, “Now he calls her ‘my lady’.” She shuffled to
the front gate with an umbrella, “Oh it’s you Kenziro. Tell your brother Hiroshi40 that he
should be ashamed of himself for matching me, a well-bred woman, with Gorou, such a
despicable man! He is discussing another woman in front of his lawful wife.”
Kenziro, who was burdened with too many Aizu women in his family to be
intimidated by Tokio, sat next to his friend, “Why are you mutilating newspapers
Gorou?”
“Because they never learn. These editors print information to upset the public and
try to incite disunity by raising all sorts of questions. I cut out these sample stories and
turn them into the station so we can arrest the writers.” Fujita creased the paper over and
over again before slowly cutting out squares.
The scientist laughed, “Have mercy on them Gorou, they have to pay someone
else to sit in the cells for them.”
“Mercy? These newspapermen know nothing of the chaos conflict brings. They
are too young to remember. As much as I hate the men in power now, I will not fight in
another civil war.” Fujita shook his head.
40
Yamakawa Hiroshi (aka Okura or Taizo), the older brother of Yamakawa Kenjiro was the matchmaker for Fujita
Goro and Takagi Tokio.
- 115 -
“In America, the papers can say as they wish, the government is still stable. Say,
why do I get the impression that you have not told Tokio that the woman you serve is the
Empress.” Kenziro grinned.
“It’s more amusing this way.”
“Gorou, she’s pregnant. In fact she looks about as round as a daruma.41”
The officer swept his hand across the page, “Papers are full of new words and
terms. I just can’t keep up. Tokio enjoys pointing out my low education on occasions
when I ask her to read characters I have never seen. So my little game with her really
evens out the match.” Fujita assumed a philosophical tone, “Marriage is nothing but a
fight. Something like duelists in a dojo. The defeat or death of one opponent is
inevitable.” He sternly emphasized, “So don’t reveal that I serve the Empress. Besides
she is more feisty and lively with this lie.”
Kenziro, “You are too cruel.”
“If she stays active due to jealousy and agitation then she will not take so many
naps. I have just realized now that women, when pregnant, sleep too much.” Gorou
nodded, “I’m doing this for her own good and for the baby too. I do not want it to be a
lazy boy.”
“It took up until this third pregnancy for you to realize this?” The professor
laughed.
“She is a lot tougher than she looks. Enough about my little wife.”
Yamagawa leaned close to whisper, “Gorou, what if the baby is a girl?”
“We’ll keep her. Tokio would not mind having a daughter and we can even send
it Takahashi’s school 42 later on. However, Numazawa Shichiro 43 needs a boy to
41
Round, red dolls based on Bodhidharma the founder of Zen from South India.
Fujita Gorou is referring to the Tokyo Normal School. Takahashi (fictional character based on Takamine Hideo)
was also in charge of the Tokyo Womens Normal School throughout the 1880s and later again at the end of the 1890s
to his death in 1910 as the director. (The school is erroneously noted in scholarly text in the possessive case
‘Women’s’) the schools had attached lab schools and also a kindergarten which allowed the teachers in training to
practice what they learned immediately.
43
Numazawa Shichiro’s mother, Michiko, grandmother and sisters committed suicide during or after the Battle of
Koga-cho in which the Imperial forces entered the samurai residential area in Aizu-Wakamatsu. Shichiro did adopt
Fujita Tatsuo, the third son of the Fujita family in 1887. The tragedy of the Numazawa family during the war was
recorded by the brother of Takagi/Fujita Tokio in: Takagi, Morinusuke. Numasawa Michiko-kun no den. Tokyo
published by Numasawa Shichiro, 1913. The book is a rare case of a samurai woman’s life memorialized in a text.
(Thank you to Paulownia and Shimizu Hitomi for acquiring this book from UC Berkeley)
42
- 116 -
continue his family. He and his woman came to ask us after Tokio was clearly pregnant
again. Tokio understands. She made the decision.”
Kenziro agreed, “Yes even one of my older brothers was adopted out to another
family. But your agreement with Numazawa is different. You want this to be a complete
secret. My brother still is a part of our family to this day---he is fully aware of the
matter.”
“This baby will be given to Shichiro, in such a way, with complete sincerity after
it is strong enough to leave Tokio’s breast, probably sometime next year. It will only
know the love of one family. He will be more content with one pair of parents.” Gorou
inhaled, “Although Aizu is no more, the Numazawa are still an elite family. They will be
good providers. I know Tokio and her brother Morinusuke will watch her boy from afar.
Shichiro is their cousin after all.”
The professor continued to pry because it was odd for Gorou to explain details he
knew already. Is Gorou reasoning with me or himself? The Takagi, Takahashi and
Numazawa are first cousins. Most samurai families of Aizu know these relationships. “I
know all of that. What about you Gorou? You are its father.”
“What about me?” Gorou rubbed his arm, “I want the boy to know that his father
is Numazawa Shichiro, not a man with five names, who has a low education and who
has….a past. My role is complete. I cannot do anything for the boy if he knows I am his
true father.”
“It is an honorable past Gorou.”
“Numazawa Shichiro is a samurai of Aizu. My father bought the rank of samurai.
There is a difference Kenziro.” Fujita massaged his knee, “If there was no distinction
between foot soldier and samurai, then my father would not have saved his money to
become a retainer. Families are still measured by rank.”
Kenziro tried to assert, “Honour is not measured by birth. Honour is built by
action.”
“You don’t know everything about me Kenziro. You only know Saitou Hajime,
the captain of the third unit of the Shinsengumi, Yamaguchi Jiro, a fighter at Aizu, the
defeated Ichinose Denpachi a prisoner of war who begged the government for food,”
- 117 -
Fujita’s eyes shone revealing that there was a line Kenziro should not cross with his
questions, “I had a different life before I joined the Shinsengumi.”
“The man I see now it the true essence of all the four other men. Gorou, do not
measure your life by the defeat we all suffered,” Kenziro had seen Gorou like this before
many times especially after sake had slid down the older man’s throat.
“I don’t want Shichiro’s boy to know he was sired by a man whose head might
well have ended up on display for the crowds and birds to admire: Just like Kondou
Isami, the Chief of the Shinsengumi.”
“What about your older boys Tsutomu and Tsuyoshi? Will you teach them about
your life?”
“Yes, gradually, so they will appreciate how easy their life is now. My life will
be a valuable lesson to them.”
Mrs. Fujita pressed her ear against the wall to listen. The former lady in waiting
to the princess of Aizu had retreated to the bedroom to wipe a stray tear from her eyes.
She could not believe that Gorou understood. Does he know that some days I pray for a
girl on other days I wish for a boy to give to Shichiro and his wife? The baby is making
me so emotional. The daughter of the Takagi family covered her mouth as she listened to
her her husband’s harsh appraisal of his past.
Gorou abruptly changed the subject, “Kenziro, I’m glad that you are here I want
to test an idea of mine.”
Fujita left the room and returned with a bokken, wooden practice sword, “Here
we can have a match on the engawa.”
“Absolutely not, I’ll not face you Gorou! I don’t want to leave with broken
bones. Why not ask Takahashi when he stops by?”
Fujita laughed very loudly, “Takahashi is too short to face me. I also find it very
strange to fight a man who wears glasses---and he’s blind without them. Besides he only
cares for archery.” He reassured his friend, “You will not be injured. I want to see if I
understand this mesmerism.”
The rainfall came down in torrents and the garden was filled with a grey mist.
The two men faced each other on the patio. Gorou raised the wooden sword above his
head with both hands in an aggressive stance. The Aizu samurai inched forward with the
- 118 -
blade pointing at the base of Fujita’s neck. Yamagawa disliked meeting Gorou’s fierce
eyes, but if he wavered he can expect a swift attack.
Fujita slid back slightly.
Kenziro saw his chance and lunged forward, slamming his barefoot on the floor.
The former captain in the Shinsengumi lowered himself and thrust his sword upward in
the space between Kenziro’s arms and body.
I cannot guard! Kenziro had to open his arms and try to move backwards in the
instant, leaving only one hand to grasp his weapon.
Fujita’s sword stopped short of hitting the wooden beam behind Yamagawa. Had
his intended target been truly Kenziro’s neck then death would have been nearly instant
although he could have aimed the tip of his weapon right under the sternum, Gorou
would have risked scraping or hitting bone, making retraction difficult. Like other
members of the Shinsengumi, Fujita, who was then called Saitou Hajime, utilized only
swift battle tested moves designed not for beauty but ruthless effectiveness.
Tokio was standing at the doorway, “What is going on? Why can’t men just sit
down and have civilized conversations?” She folded her arms over her round stomach.
“Woman, I was not about to hurt Kenziro. If I did, his numerous siblings would
seek their revenge on me. I would not be able to fend them off, especially his sisters.”
Gorou turned to the still stunned opponent, “Kenziro tell me what just happened to you.”
Inside the house, the walls blocked the roar of the thunderstorm and the three sat
in comfort. Kenziro sighed, “First I heard the rain, after a while I became tense. Gorou
was not making a move. Then I stopped hearing the rain, perhaps because I was so
focused and afraid. There was a loud kiai, war cry. Your kiai is amazing. Then you
attacked in such a way as to leave the top of your head exposed.”
“Kenziro, I did not yell at all.” Gorou’s eyes shone.
“You did.”
“No I did not.” Fujita smiled. It was just as he planned it.
Tokio yawned into the palm of her hand, “Gorou please do not waste Yamagawasensei’s time.”
“Do you have anything better to do woman?”
- 119 -
“No, I finished all my chores before you came home. I want to see what you did
to Kenziro. I do not think it possible that someone of your swashbuckling background
can confound a modern man like Yamagawa,” she crinkled her nose like a cat smelling a
pungent piece of dried fish.
Gorou was pleased, “Kenziro you said that this mesmerism can use anything to
induce the victim correct? A simple object a focal point is all that is needed. I used by
eyes and my silent kiai.”
After a moment of silence, Kenziro replied, “Yes some western practitioners can
use just their eyes as well. However, I thought kiai must be carried with the voice.”
“You were too young to have had your life depend on your sword in the war.
There is kiai you can hear with your ears and kiai you hear inside your mind. The target
of the attack is the mind. Sometimes the enemy is so shocked he can even feel the silent
kiai. By stunning the enemy, there will be an opening for attack. On the battlefield
however, it is hard to maintain one’s concentration and use kiai---only brute force is
needed usually.”
“Fujita-san, the top of your head and shoulders were exposed because you
crouched.”
“Yet you were still in such shock you could not respond. Besides, it would have
been impossible for your swing your blade downward. You even opened your arms
instinctively letting your left hand go from the handle. In truth, there is a weakness in all
attacks. The difference lies in speed.”
An idea hit the scientist, “What if I had a knife, then I could easily strike
downward towards your head, neck or back.”
Tokio giggled, “Ah see Gorou he has it figured out!”
“No, if Kenziro were using a knife or short sword I would not have use that move
at all! It is a shame that martial arts has fallen into such disrepair. When I go into the
police dojo I see young men slashing the air as if chopping wood.” He laughed.
“Gorou, look you are trying to impress a well-educated man such as Kenziro,”
Tokio shook her head.
“I am impressed, Tokio!” Kenziro exclaimed, “You truly are a great warrior
Gorou.”
- 120 -
Tokio giggled, “Oh great warrior. Where is your mindfulness? Or perhaps you
use your empty mind. You forgot that you did not retrieve the underwear you washed and
hung out to dry…”
“My fundoshi44!” Fujita scampered out of the room into the rain to fetch his
underwear which hung like a banner in the storm.
Kenziro had his chance, “Tokio do not believe for a moment that he has another
woman. He is referring to the Empress!”
“Don’t you think I know that? Your sister Futaba45 told me already. Besides he
does not have the extra energy—I make sure of that.” The samurai woman smirked, “He
has been turning over more of his pay so I can guess he received a special assignment
too. For most, marriage is amateur theatre really. Unfortunately for Gorou, I happen to
be a professional.”
Fujita came back into the house soaking wet and breathless. He balled up the
white fundoshi in his hand and twisted it to squeeze out the excess water. The Wolf of
Mibu tried to maintain his dignity. “One more issue Kenziro, I was wrong about Akemi
and the way she was killed. If this dark art works the way you have explained then she
did kill herself…in a way.”
Tokio put her hand on the front of her special obi which covered her midsection.
“Tokio?” Gorou sensed his wife’s concern, “what’s wrong?”
Her eyes twinkled, “It kicked fiercely. Shichiro will have his heir, I just know it’s
a boy.” Shichiro and his wife are still both so young cannot have children. I am forty, I
cannot carry another baby safely after this one. The Fujita family will not have a
daughter but Shichiro will receive a son. The gods are cruel to us all.
44
Fundoshi or “classic pants” men underwear.
Yamakawa Futaba, the oldest of the Yamakawa siblings, was employed as a high ranking member of the female
staff in the Tokyo Women’s Normal School (aka Female Normal School, Tokyo Womens Normal School, later Tokyo
Women’s Higher Normal School and presently Ochanomizu University).
45
- 121 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1883 TOKYO
“Suzue! You are rotating your wrist too much,” the elderly Satoshi adjusted his
son’s grip on the katana at his waist. “Pull the scabbard from your waistband firmly…”
The young doctor attempted the basic iaijutsu 46 movement again and failed. He
could not even draw the live blade without a criticism from his father.
“How shameful that you have forgotten all that I taught you,” Satoshi attempted
to exert his paternal dominance and showed Suzue this basic move several times in the
past hour.
Enough father. “The only thing shameful is that I waste my time in acquiring a
useless skill,” Suzue placed the sword on its rack, “Samurai do not even bear swords in
public.”
The old man was stunned. Satoshi could not even summon the right words to
express his disappointment. In the hallway a mid-aged woman crouched and sobbed,
“Master, I cannot serve you when such a thing is present,” she pointed towards Suzue’s
office, “It is horrible.”
Satoshi was confused by the woman’s words, “What?” Since his beloved’s son
return, the servants were often afraid of the strange changes in the household Suzue
initiated.
The servant lowered her head, “The young master has a dead child on his table.”
Her husband, the gardener, came to crouch by his wife and spoke the Satsuma
dialect, “We regret that we cannot repay your kindness with our continued loyalty. Such
pollution in the household is unbearable and we can no longer work here.” The two
pressed their foreheads to the floor and moved backwards.
The samurai brought out some money and put it before the couple, “If you cannot
find a new place of employment soon come back and I will refer you to another estate.”
Both the maid and gardener wished Satoshi a long life and they quickly left the
home.
46
Iaijutsu (Iaido) is the motion of the sword beginning at rest, in its sheath secure in the waistband, unsheathed to
counter, attack or defend and then returned to its state of rest.
- 122 -
Satoshi, infuriated, grabbed Suzue’s arm, “A dead child? What for?”
“It’s in a jar father. I placed a cloth over it. She was foolish to remove it,” Suzue
avoided his father stern glare, “Only the uneducated fear such things and believe in
pollution.” I know you are one of them father, part of the great ignorant population of
our island nation.
Satoshi shook his head, “Suzue, have you forgotten that those two peasants,
whom I wish to help, are from Satsuma? They were good workers and were with me for
years until you came home.”
The doctor finally faced his father, “I came back to Japan expecting to see a rich
and strong country. All I see is a capital flooded with peasants from the countryside.
Even the neighborhood for, eta, outcastes, has expanded. We can acquire replacements
easily.” He sneered, “I can smell the stench of poverty everywhere. Maybe we will find
people who will work for even less.”
“Servants are people not objects one can buy at a market. Even daimyo knew
they must be benevolent to their retainers and peasants to prevent rioting. It is difficult to
find honest workers whom we can trust.” He stared into his son’s eyes, “You still have
not told me why you have brought a dead child into the house Suzue. Answer me! Why
must you do such things?” The old man realized now that his son was from a different
world, too ‘sophisticated’ for his comprehension.
“I want to understand why people desire children and why parents love them.
Although I am a physician I have never delivered a child nor have I held an infant.
Studying a dead one is beneficial to me.” Otherwise I only see infants as tumors within
their mother’s bodies sapping away blood and vital needs of the host. Children drain the
resources of the parents not to speak of testing the patience of the mother and father.
Suzue lowered his voice, “My apologies father.” To make his atonement more believable
he even bowed. “I’ll ask the rickshaw driver Densuke to find new people for us. Until
then, I shall increase your allowance and give you the money I would otherwise give the
maid and gardener.”
Outraged the elderly samurai raised his voice, “My allowance? I am your father,
do not treat me like an employee or your retainer!”
- 123 -
Ono saw his father truly angry now. I must look like him when his eyes become
full of fire. You took me to see horrible things during the war and sent me away for many
years. Yet he calls himself my “father”? “I beg your forgiveness,” Suzue dropped his
gaze, “please forgive me.”
Satoshi wiped the sweat from his face as he watched Suzue leave. His little boy
was a now a man who preened each morning in front of the mirror, wore expensive suits
and filled his library with books written in a language he could not comprehend. Satoshi
finally admitted defeat. He had lost his Ryuichi when he sent him across the vast sea. All
he had now was Dr. Suzue Ono, “a man of talent”, who also wrote his name in reverse,
placing his name in front of his family line. The old samurai looked at his wife’s name
stand in the small shrine, “Wife I failed you. I lost our Ryuichi.”
Satoshi realized that he gave the departed servants all his money. Satoshi
regretted that when Suzue began to care for wealthy patients, he allowed his son to
convince him to sell the gardening business and retire. Now he depended entirely on
Suzue for everything. Satoshi’s old comrades frequently commented that they envied
him for having a son full of filial piety who looked after all his needs. Satoshi never
mentioned to his friends that he had to ask for money verbally first before Suzue would
present him with the promised stipend. Some days he felt like a beggar instead of a
parent.
Suzue sat at his desk and looked at the female infant floating in the cold glass
womb. He put his fingers on the large jar as if to smooth the delicate hairs on her head.
Even in death, the Japanese placed a higher value on their male infants and buried them
with dignity. The preparatory school received only discarded female babies. Suzue had
submitted his resume and application for employment but all he received in return was
permission to study a dead baby. He initially brought this specimen home to better
understand not why people desire children and why parents love them but to study
females. Even as infants they were very different.
He pulled the large glass jar towards his chest with both arms. Suzue cradled the
container in his arm like a mother holding a newborn. He looked at the little girl gently
floating left and right in the liquid. I cannot feel anything. It must be because she is not
- 124 -
mine, concluded the doctor. Ono put his face close to that of the dead infant like a father
admiring his progeny, where in the human heart does this selfless love come from? I
should ask father why he loves me. He does love me. I know it because he forgives me
for all the affronts I have committed against him.
At Johns Hopkins and the University of Pennsylvania he had never even dissected
the cadaver of a woman. It was prohibited. All students simply copied drawings of the
female anatomy. At his age, Suzue had only known men. The diseases carried by
women in the red-light district only further convinced him to keep his distance. Yet he
longed to try a woman. Not that a woman would be as beautiful as David, but he needed
to satisfy his curiosity. How would it feel like to stroke a woman’s womb with my flesh?
Are they as pleasurable as men?
The next day, Densuke, a strong young man stood by the front gate waiting to
take Suzue to meet a patient. The doctor vowed to find a better job in the University. It
exhausted him to treat patients with mental rather than physical afflictions. They need to
be told that they are happy or that the minor discomfort is now gone. How simple it is to
fool the mind and watch how the body follows. His job was done as soon as he brought
out his pocket watch, but to keep people from becoming suspicious he had to visit the
patient frequently as if he was treating them for a physical ailment.
“We need a young trustworthy female servant Densuke. Can you find one for the
household?” Suzue disliked how the young man was almost always shirtless and
exposed his cheery tattoos. Densuke’s skin is the color of brown wet clay how inferior,
thought the doctor, just like a negro47.
The rickshaw man nodded, “I’ll try my best sir.”
“Make sure she is pretty and clean.” Suzue placed his leather bag on the seat.
“Clean sir?”
Is he so stupid to not understand what I am implying? Ono sighed.
47
Remember this is still the 19th century. By the 1890s Social Darwinism hits full steam and Japan clamored to be
separate from other Asian countries, especially the defeated and humiliated China. Please see the writings of the
“enlightened” Fukuzawa Yukichi. Dark skinned Asians such as Indians and Southeast Asians were deemed lower than
the Japanese but still higher than those of African descent. During the Columbian Exposition of 1893 one would have
to attend the fair on “colored people’s day” if you are not Caucasian (It is not clear if the rule applied to Japanese who
were major players in this International Event).
- 125 -
Densuke did find a pure young woman for the estate that very night near his one
room home.
“Don’t touch me! Get away from me!” a small female crouched in an alley and
swatted at his hands.
The servant of the Ono estate tried to calm her, “I’m not going to hurt you. Are
you all right? Do you need help?”
After running away from a brothel in the Yoshiwara, Akemi was lost and alone
wandering the streets. The last thing she would expect is kindness from a half naked man
covered with pictures on his skin. She was weak from lack of food and water. The
country girl tried to stand, ready to run but her knees gave and Densuke grabbed her
elbow.
“What are you? Some yakuza? Tekiya? 48” Her eyes suspiciously examined the
tattoos which crawled down from the top of both his muscular arms.
“No. My name is Densuke.” He scratched his head of closely shaven hair, “I am
not one of those good-for-nothing yakuza. I am an honest worker. I just like tattoos.
Some customers think it is good luck to have a rickshaw puller with these designs.”
Akemi kept her hand on the wall and slowly walked away. This Densuke fellow is
one of the most attractive man I have ever seen. The tattoos only charmed her eyes more.
“Look, it is very dangerous to walk around at night in this area, why don’t you
come with me?” Densuke followed her slowly, “You can trust me.”
“Ha! You expect me to believe you? There are police…”
The large man insisted, “There are not enough police to be protect Tokyo. They
don’t care about us poor people. Please stay in my room tonight. I am an honorable
man.”
“So was my father.” Akemi was suddenly overcome with hoplessnes and cried in
her arm, “I love them so much but they sold me. If I go home they’ll throw me out.”
Densuke managed to coax her into his room, “You can sleep here and I’ll be right
outside the door.”
48
There were many classes and kinds of yakuza. Tekiya are generally peddlers.
- 126 -
“But there is only dirt out front and you won’t have any blankets.” She quickly
wiped her tears.
“I do not mind. As long as you are safe I’ll sleep on nails or even glass.”
Densuke had never seen such a woman like Akemi. She has such big soft expressive
eyes, “Don’t go.”
Akemi glanced at his honest face, “Just tonight then. I trust you.”
- 127 -
- 128 -
- 129 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO
Fujita Gorou started to walk home just two hours before sunrise with his good
friend Koga Tanji. On the one hand, Gorou liked working at night, just as he often did as
a member of the Shinsengumi in Kyoto. However, he slowly felt the invisible wall
emerge between him and his family. His wife and the boys lived in the sun while he
worked by the moonlight. I must ask for a different shift next month. They stopped by a
small makeshift restaurant which was serving day laborers who were about ready to
spread out in the city to various construction sites. They stood in line and watched the
butcher slice thin strips of pork. For these men, a hearty meal with red meat should be an
occasional treat but they needed it regularly to fuel their manual labor.
Gorou complained, “What is taking so long? I need to go home and get some
sleep.”
Koga looked at the butcher who stood by the head of a pig, “I bet it’s the knife.
He’s unprepared as usual.” It was always good to eat at a place which displayed the cow
or pig’s head, otherwise one wonders where the expensive meat really came from. The
butcher’s wife scolded her husband, “Is the knife giving you problems again?”
“Yes dear, it’s the pin. Still loose even after I fixed it.”
The round woman frowned, “That’s what you get for buying a used knife.” She
wiped her bloody hands on an apron.
“It was cheap dear, the seller said they fished it out of the Sumida River.”
The woman pinched her husband’s ear, “Well we rely on cutlery. Do not be
cheap! Amazing how it did not rust.”
“Someone probably dropped it in the water recently.”
Fujita hollered, “With all the money you make from us, you ought to buy a new
knife! Get a new handle for it!” He left the line and walked up the hill to his home
grouchy. Now he will have to survive on the soba, buckwheat noodles, his wife will
undoubtedly prepare. “See you at work on Monday, Koga.”
- 130 -
Gorou quietly entered the modest sized house and looked up at the awning above
the door. Good, the shelf I built under the birdnest is doing its job. The small wooden
structure will support the home of a pair of swallows had meticulously constructed.
Tokio had better not bother me about it anymore. These birds sure knew how to pick the
right sanctuary. Day in and day out Tokio would mention how horrible it would be if the
swallows had chicks and fell out of their nest. The birds thanked him the other day by
defecating on his uniform.
He walked past his sons’ bedroom and saw them sleeping soundly under a thick
blanket. Tokio’s snoring was a combination of soft mews and incoherent mumblings.
She was no doubt thinking about money, complaining about money, counting money or
waiting for his money in her dreams. Gorou wondered if the pleasure of having a family
was really the challenge of filling so many mouths and stomachs. Stomach. Tokio was
eating more than both boys combined as the delivery grew near. Mrs. Fujita was sleeping
her back. When she is this size, Tokio needs to be on her side thought Gorou. He slowly
tried to turn her over by rolling up the futon. She’s as heavy a boulder. Thud. The
samurai woman’s head had slipped off the small wooden pillow and onto the thin futon.
Her husband gently raised her head slightly to slip the rectangle under neck. Finally, she
was properly positioned. Tokio murmered, “baby,” and proceeded to roll onto her back
again. This is pointless thought Fujita and left the room exasperated even in sleep she
annoys me.
Gorou quietly removed his blue jacket and put on a comfortable kimono and sat in
the living room facing the tokonoma, alcove. Even in the darkness he still felt the need
to close his eyes. He was still disappointed that it took him three years to realize how
Akemi had really died. Few could grasp his sympathy for her so the veteran never
explained why the case troubled him.
~~~~~~~~~~
In the early 1870s many Aizu samurai families who had struggled during the long
exile in the frozen hell of the north immigrated to Tokyo in search of jobs. They all
settled close together, sharing kitchens and often living space. The immigrants, they say,
ate from the same pot of rice, drank bitter together and shared the same candlelight as
- 131 -
they recounted their past 49. He smiled at the strange memory of going to the new “estate”
of the Yamagawa family in the capital’s ghetto and being greeted by a boy wearing girl’s
clothing.
“Who are you?” Gorou tried not laugh.
“Shiba Goro sir. I’m visiting the Yamagawa family.”
“Ah, my name is Gorou too. But why are you wearing THAT?” Fujita pointed at
the purple fabric.
Yamagawa Hiroshi, the oldest son of the clan, came to the door a bit drunk, “The
kid has to wear Sutematsu’s clothes 50. We have nothing else for him. Shiba is going to a
military school soon but I think he is fond of my sister’s kimono. Right Shiba?”
The boy looked up at Gorou and smiled, “It keeps me warm. I like it.”
Hiroshi squeezed the boy’s shoulder, “I’ll pay you back soon kid, don’t worry.51”
Gorou glared at his friend, “Hiroshi you borrowed money from a child?”
“I was at the end of my rope.”
Fujita smoothed back his newly cut hair and whispered, “I hate to ask but, Hiroshi
do you have any rice to spare? Tokio is starving me.”
“Gorou! You criticize me for I borrowing for borrowing money from Shiba and
now you ask for rice,” Hiroshi chuckled, “You’ll have to go to Takahashi Hideo’s house.
Hideo’s mother is good at hording for her four sons. Get what you can and run while she
is distracted by the lamp Hideo bought her.” Yamagawa Hiroshi moved his arms as if he
was directing a battle with a war fan, “Just quickly grab what you can and leave before
she starts talking.”
“Forget it---I won’t deal with Hideo’s mother, she’ll tell my new wife52 I’ve been
complaining. I won’t hear the end of it. Do you have any meat to spare?”
49
Shiba Goro noted than in 1870 during the transport of prisoners to capital, “When I first set foot in Tokyo, I had been
a prisoner of war. My fellow captives and I had been herded into the city like a gang of beggers rounded up by police.
We had been put in a detention camp and spent each day in a state of humiliation.” (Shiba 113) Shiba actually lived
with the Yamakawa family for a while, but by the time Fujita Goro entered Tokyo I think Shiba may have moved out
already.
50
Shiba Goro’s words, “I was still wearing my soiled summer kimono. His [Yamakawa Hiroshi’s] mother and sister
took pity on me and looked through the clothes his younger sister Sutematsu had left behind when she went to the
United States to study. They chose a pale purple cotton kimono with a design at the hem…” (Shiba 118)
51
The Yamakawa family a family of senior retainers did in fact borrow money from Shiba Goro, a young boy at the
time. The situation was related in (Shiba 124)
52
Fujita Goro was formerly married to another Aizu samurai woman, Shinoda Yaso. They divorced.
- 132 -
“Nothing but some dry fish but it sure beats dog meat right Goro?” Hiroshi
elbowed the boy wearing his sister’s outfit.
Shiba Goro made a strange face, “Yamagawa-sama, I did eat a dog up north 53.
There was nothing for us.” The boy walked away. Hiroshi was embarassed by his poor
attempt at humor, “Well Gorou come in and I’ll have my mother give you some fish. I
wanted you to go to Takahashi’s place just so you can hear him speak54. He sounds just
like an Edokka 55 now.”
Fujita’s mind still fixed on the boy’s confession of eating dog meat. Gorou’s
heart skipped a beat when he remembered how up north he, a two-sword bearing warrior
and one of the most skilled in all of Japan 56, gathered vegetables during the brutal
banishment.
“Things are looking up for us Gorou,” Hiroshi, the eternal optimist smiled,
“Kenziro will graduate from Eeru University 57 next year. He will have a great job. Then
we can live off his salary!”
~~~~~~~~~~
When Gorou went to retrieve Akemi’s body and later found her home nearby, he
was sad to see that the young woman was living alone in a rented room, no different from
what he and his comrades used 58. She is just a small defenseless woman, just like the
53
Shiba Goro and his family survived on the meat of one dog for twenty days (Shiba 88-89). Aizu people staved off
famine best they could by defrosting rice gruel, collecting shellfish from the rocks and scavenging but many suffered
from beri beri or died of respiratory illnesses and parasites. Children such as Shiba became bald from malnutrition.
54
It was easy for Aizu people to be picked out from the rest of the crowd in the capital due to their “accent”. Both
Shiba Goro and the son of Matsudaira Katamori had to make a conscious effort to rid themselves of the accent.
55
Edokka or Tokyoite
56
According to popular lore, Okita Soujiro (Souji) (Okita Sōjirō Fujiwara no Harumasa) the captain of the first unit in
the Shinsengumi was admittedly one of the best swordsmen in Japan during the age of strife. Fujita Gorou, then under
the name of Saitou Hajime, captain of the third unit, was either very close in skill or equal to that of Okita.
57
Eeru University is in fact Yale University. “Eeru” is how the school is noted in Japanese texts and how it was
pronounced in the Meiji Era.
58
“I [Shiba Goro] headed straight for Kanzo-in Temple…where Yamakawa [Okura/Hiroshi, elder brother of Kenziro
and Sutematsu. He as the marriage go-between for Gorou and Tokio], former Aizu elder…had rented rooms. But I
could tell at a glance that he was living under straitened conditions. Besides his own family, he was taking care of
several students…” (Shiba 118) The rooms used were “row houses” notorious for flea infestations and the spread of
tuberculosis. I was shocked to learn how from the 1870s to 1880s, even major families like the Yamakawa often relied
entirely on the income of the couple of younger men who had good jobs to feed several people. For example, after
Yamakawa Sutematsu’s return to Japan in 1881, each of her brothers still had to use their income to support numerous
family members and the younger generation of Aizu people. SEE (Vassar Special Collections & Archives). Similarly,
the Takamine family, also from Aizu, relied on the oldest son for survival as well.
- 133 -
hundreds and thousands who came to the capital. He remembered the poor who lived in
the ghettos of Edo before the war, but after the restoration of the emperor, the population
of the city exploded with the unemployed, sick and needy beggers who were once
farmers attached to their feuds. Everyone became ants teeming into an already full nest.
Their children often approached men in uniform with open hands counting on regularly
paid government officials to be generous. By law, begging was prohibited. Yet how
could one scold a barefoot child?
The room was supported by beams which became the roads for the fat rodents
which scurried from household to household dropping their feces as they went. He noted
the few but clean kitchen utensils and sure enough the knife was missing. The suicide
note was on a low unpolished table used for eating and sewing. A large box, usually used
to hold kimono was instead full of trinkets, mostly broken and used, a hairpin and sewing
supplies. Trading knick knacks and broken appliances for other items was very common.
Nothing was wasted in Tokyo. Even left over food from army mess halls were sold to the
poor. Gorou ought to know. During his very early days as an officer of the Tokyo
Metropolitan Police Department, he was careful to change out of uniform to buy food at
such eateries. There was no way around saving every sen, a fraction of yen, to buy a
home. The stories of samurai pulling rickshaws 59, making umbrellas and selling insects
were all true. If former samurai were now peasants then the Fujitas, now classified as
heimin 60, commoners, had to fight hard from falling into a similar state.
~~~~~~~~~~
Gorou kept his eyes closed and turned the details of his investigation over and
over in his mind like a cook stirring a pot of dark soup, waiting for an ingredient to
emerge. The image of Akemi wrapped in a straw mat along the river seemed to him like
59
Samurai pulling rickshaws (quite common) was noted by the Meiji era’s famous female author Higuchi Ichiyo.
Incidentally, Higuchi was a neighbor of the Fujita family and mentions Mr. Fujita in her diary. Higuchi herself would
later fall on such hard times after her father’s suicide she had to sell her clothing on the street. SEE Danly, Robert
Lyons, 1947- In the shade of spring leaves : the life and writings of Higuchi Ichiyō, a woman of letters in Meiji
Japan. New York : W.W. Norton & Co., 1992. Hosoya Judayu a former retainer of Sendai-han had a daughter who had
to sell insects to get by. Insects were popular pets amongst children of the era. Many samurai engaged in paper related
industries such as umbrella making and selling their calligraphy.
60
Indeed, the Fujitas are classified as heimin (commoners) even though Saitou Hajime was formerly a hatamoto,
retainer, due to his affiliation with the Shinsengumi. However, Takagi Tokio was also from a well established samurai
family. Generally, classification is based on the husband’s background.
- 134 -
a stranded, cold mermaid. Fujita addressed the vision and told Akemi to find peace.
Please do not intrude on my thoughts now. I have no way of assuring you that he will be
caught. It is out of my hands now. Someone at the ‘yard’ is working on the case.
He frowned as he remembered the suspicious mark at the gate of the Ono estate.
The samurai lifted his left hand from his thigh and reached outwards in the darkness
mimicking his action the day he saw the weak and sick Tomoji. In disguise as the
shabbily dressed man, Fujita reached inside the gate and ran his hand along the wooden
pillar. What is this? A gash in the wood like the many sword scars I have seen in Kyoto
during the years of strife.
~~~~~~~~~~
1883 TOKYO
Ono Satoshi questioned the young rickshaw puller, “Densuke, is this girl Akemi
honest? I have very few possessions in this home but my son seems to own many
valuable things.”
“I think so master. She is a really wonderful cook too!”
Satoshi smiled, “Is she pretty?”
“Yes very,” Densuke smiled. The patriarch of the Ono family chuckled, “Ah I
see you want a help mate for the estate, an attractive helper. I understand, I was once a
young man too.”
The laborer was so embarrassed that his intent was so transparent he blushed and
fixed his eyes on the floor, “She’s not my woman. I just met her.”
Satoshi smiled at Densuke’s reaction, “But maybe she will be soon! After all she
has cooked for you already. This girl probably likes you. I can be your go-between if
you want to propose.”
Suzue was in the small garden holding a divided wooden box he had made for
two large mantises. Ono looked at the chrysanthemums Densuke had planted and the
flowers he transplanted into the soil. As a botanist, Suzue was familiar with various
methods to ensure the health of his plants, however Densuke’s flowers were more
colorful and their stems reached up higher than his blooms, thirsting for more sunlight.
- 135 -
Densuke is a peasant, he no doubt uses natural fertilizer. As the doctor gathered insects
to feed his pet insects he spied Akemi standing on the other side of the fence. The country
girl’s sweet features were humbled by her faded clothing. She would look elegant in dark
colors like red and black. He walked inside to tell his father that he approved of hiring
the girl.
The male insect hidden in its prison rotated its small head left to right trying to
peer at the outside world with its large eyes. The female stretched her long claws out
briefly before becoming perfectly still in its deceptively humble ‘praying’ position.
Satoshi, an avid gardener, had encouraged his son to release the small creatures so they
may do their job and capture pests. Suzue insisted on keeping them.
~~~~~~~~~~
Soon, Akemi applied her intelligence to managing the estate alone with the
assistance of Densuke who was also the gardener. Satoshi was less burdened by looking
after the house and mentioned to his son one day, “Suzue, I will go back to Satsuma and
attend to your mother’s grave.”
The doctor looked up from his book, a collection of the works by Edgar AllenPoe 61, “Very well father,” and handed his sire a large stack of bills, “have a safe
trip.”
Ryuichi was surprised that he did not have to lower himself and explicitly state
that he had no income and he needed money. Is he happy to see me leave? “Son, don’t
you wish to accompany me? You have yet to inform your mother that you have returned
to Japan.”
Suzue closed his book slowly, “Mother is dead and would be unable to hear or see
me father. Please spend a couple of weeks in the south, the warm weather will be good
for your health.”
“Suzue,” Satoshi said the name slowly as if it were a new word in his vocabulary,
“Suzue.”
61
Poe was one of several American and European authors who incorporated mesmerism into their works.
- 136 -
“Father, I am quite busy so if you have nothing further to say I’d like to resume
reading now.” He opened the book again in an attempt to dismiss the patriarch of the
family.
“Suzue!”
“I know the name is odd but I like it. It was bestowed to me by…”
“No. I was not referring to your name. I don’t care for ‘Suzue’.” Satoshi looked
at his wife’s shrine, “She wrapped you in cloth finer than anything she had ever worn.”
The learned man exhaled, “Who father?”
“Your mother!” What education has robbed you of the ability to honor your
mother? “Suzue, if you only knew how much your mother loved you. She protected you
because you were the only child who lived. All your brothers and sisters died early.
Your mother would even brush off ants and flies which would dare to crawl on your
skin.”
Suzue’s face was free of emotion. Satoshi realized the conversation was pointless,
“I’ll stay in the south for three weeks,” he walked to his small bedroom to begin packing,
“How I miss my Ryuichi. Where is he?”
Suzue pushed his book across his table. I wonder if senility strikes so suddenly all
the time? Three weeks is more than enough time to see Akemi in the right colors. The
doctor followed his father into the bedroom to help him pack and in the process make
amends. I am such a good son.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO
Gorou woke up when a heavy sensation settled on his chest. Indigestion? No.
Something else. Get off me cat. Tokio’s brown feline with black ears remained still on
his body.
“I need to go to work. Remove yourself immediately Akabeko!” The cat tilted its
head to the left and then the right, “that’s an order!”
- 137 -
Tokio came into the room, “It’s Saturday. As far as I know you don’t work this
weekend. Come Akabeko 62 , leave the all mighty master of the house alone.” The cat
twitched its big black ears, narrowed its eyes and refused to budge.
“Tokio move him off me.”
“Move Akabeko yourself. I hate carrying him, he’s too fat. Probably spent his
early years prowling around at night eating outside of the house somewhat like a human I
know.”
Fujita mumbled, “He scratched my face the last time I touched him. I had to tell
the men at the station…”
The daughter of Takagi family smiled, “Oh what do you tell your friends?”
“That when we,” Gorou turned his head only slightly so as to not provoke the
animal on his body to attack, “When we…you know,” he grinned slightly.
“What do you mean by ‘you know’,” Tokio scowled.
The patriarch of the Fujita family asserted, “ When we…you know…you get
really aggressive.” Gorou shaped his hands on the tatami mats like claws and scratched it
for effect.
Did my husband just wink at me? Tokio’s eyes widened to an incredible size,
“You are so foul Gorou!”
“It’s true Tokio! You are full of fire during those moments.”
Akabeko heard his mistress exclaim. The cat stretched out its claws towards the
man’s face and hissed.
Gorou rolled over and the sack of fur fell off unceremoniously, “Tokio I’m going
to the sword shop.”
“You need not tell me Gorou, I never make plans with you in mind.”
“Where are you taking the boys today?”
“To see Auntie Ibuka63, I need to talk to an older woman about the baby.”
Tokio left the house with her boys, Tsutomu and Tsuyoshi running ahead of her.
62
Akabeko are a paper mache folk craft which has become a symbol of Aizu. They are red cows which
move their head from side to side. Akabeko often have black horns/ears.
63
Ibuka Saku, the maternal aunt of Takamine Hideo, many years later would reveal to Tatsuo, the third son
of the Fujita family, that he was adopted out to the Numazawa family.
- 138 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1883 TOKYO
Suzue had just completed another session with an elderly female patient. Since he
charges his clients by the hour he allowed her to spend some time discussing her family
problems. Finally, when the doctor could take no more of the idle chatter he gently asked
her take a nap.
A large textile store beckoned him with its bright colored silks and hair
accessories. His hand was drawn to a roll of black silk covered with splashes of a red
flower pattern and seductive white lines implying incense smoke. I still need to get
Akemi’s measurements. This fabric would look so wonderful wrapped around David’s
thigh. Where are you Engelon? Are you well? Try as he might, David’s face would not
grace his memory.
“Can I help you sir?” An attractive woman with lips too full to be considered
beautiful by most Japanese approached him. She stood close to Suzue and smiled. Her
wandering eyes made it clear that she was interested in more than just selling fabric.
“Not right away miss. I’ll return when I have the numbers for a kimono.” His
eyes held hers. Ono was amused at how attractive he was to this woman. It’s a shame
that she is clearly not clean, otherwise he would consider bedding her.
He walked to a nearby park and basked on a bench, soaking in the sun. Ono made
sure to sit in the middle so he would not have to share the comfortable spot. He stretched
out his arms and crossed his ankles. The warm rays relaxed him, warming his muscles
however his ears picked up an irritating conversation nearby. A male and female voice
behind him filtered out from behind the thick brush.
“It’s all right if we do this. I love you.” Said a young man, “I love you with my
entire spirit.”
“You really do?”
“Yes.”
- 139 -
The conversation was followed by soft moans and whimpers. The couple soon
came out into the daylight holding hands and exchanging smiles. They enjoyed a simple
kiss, exchanging saliva thought Ono or more.
Ono closed his eyes only half way fearing that he would be lulled into a deep
sleep in a public setting. In front of Suzue was a mother adjusting her son’s sandals.
“See what mother is doing to your shoes Tsuyoshi?” The short statured woman
spoke kindly to her boy.
The woman stood up, “Now you do the same to your left shoe.” She watched as
the boy crouched to fix his sandal, “I showed you several times already so do not forget.”
It was not clear to the doctor if the heat from the sun was raising the temperature
in his body or if the scene was somehow affecting him. He remembered his father at
Aizu doing something similar.
Ryuichi looked up when his father dropped a pair of used but sturdy sandals
before him, “Put them on Ryuichi. Quickly. Your sandals will not last you much
longer.”
“You bought them?” Ryuichi looked up blinking his large eyes.
“No, they are from another samurai boy who will not need them anymore.”
Up until that time, the Ono boy had no idea that his father even noticed the
condition of his footwear. Do all parents have such keen eyes? Nature gives our species
such a strong instinct to care for their own blood.
The sun was hidden by a cloud and a shadow from a nearby tree covered the
doctor’s physique. His body cooled quickly in the sudden darkness. As the doctor
looked at the mother and her son he realized that their interaction had no affect on his
emotions after all. He was relieved to be in his usual state of mind. Suzue pressed the
back of his palm to his forehead. My skin is still at the right temperature, a bit chilly.
Good. I do not want to fall ill right before starting a new experiment.
- 140 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO
Gorou walked by his favorite food vendor and the butcher’s wife wiped her
bloody hands on a cloth, “Sir, my husband is still trying to fix the knife can you believe
it?”
“He’s cheap! You must scold him woman. I’ll stop by after work in a few days.
Do not make me wait otherwise I shall have the food inspector stop by to close your
shop.” He waved and kept walking. They probably think I’m joking.
Fujita arrived at a small sword shop which also traded and appraised blades.
Gorou took his regular seat in the store’s backroom.
Nobori, a man slightly older than Gorou greeted him, “Ah! Good to see a regular
face. I do dislike it when my favorite customers disappear. Years back I knew an older
gentleman whose eyes were as good as yours Gorou.”
“Oh? We should meet then.” The officer looked around for new weapons in the
room.
“Well he just stopped coming to the store long ago and I have no idea what
happened to him. He was a former Satsuma retainer. Really a good man and very keen
on trying to teach his son iaido 64 as well.”
“People come and go. Who knows where? One moment we breathe the next, our
existence it traceless.” He drummed his finger on the table, “I’m tired of conversations
with my friend Takahashi. He throws his money away on fakes. When I tell him that the
blades he buys have forged sword maker signatures on them it upsets him greatly.”
“He must be young right? If they are only a few years younger than us it is like
they are from a different world Gorou.”
“I agree!”
Nobori retied his long silver hair, “I had another customer come by around the
same time as the old samurai. He seemed like one of those modern western types. Very
64
Iaijutsu (Iaido) is the motion of the sword beginning at rest, in its sheath secure in the waistband,
unsheathed to counter, attack or defend and then returned to its state of rest.
- 141 -
striking appearance. But he knew nothing about swords. Remember that sword you
wanted a couple of years ago but your wife never gave you the money?”
“Ofcourse! You did not save it for me Nobori. I should put your head through a
screen for that!” Gorou laughed, “Go on, tell me about the sword I cannot collect
seriously, all the money goes to feed the boys. I only have two but there seems to be ten
stomachs between them.”
“This is an interesting story because now,” Nobori grinned, “the sword is back.”
“I’ll buy it then, I just need to get to my wife’s purse when she is sleeping.”
Nobori lowered his voice, “It’s damaged though so I’ll give you a deal.”
Fujita smoothed his moustache, “Damaged? We’ll see. You may have to give it
to me for free then. Do you have paperwork on the first buyer. You keep a copy of
receipts right? All flawed blades have a story.” Sword appraisal is just one of my skills.
Determining their history is my real passion.
The dealer lifted an eyebrow, “In my business, confidentiality is important. I
destroy receipts after a few months to be sure that pesky officers like you never use me as
a source in their investigations otherwise I’ll never have any customers!”
Fujita laughed. He had either become predictable or he reveals too much of
himself to close friends, “I want to see it.”
Gorou stopped smiling, “Now.”
~~~~~~~~~~
1883 TOKYO
Akemi was carefully slicing a piece of cow in the kitchen. Every motion of the
blade caused blood to seep out onto the wooden cutting board. She had to hurry.
Densuke ran home with this piece so it was fresh for the young Master.
“It is all right if each slice is not paper thin Akemi,” Suzue appeared behind the
servant.
She turned around, “Oh, it is much faster to cook if it is thinly sliced Master.”
- 142 -
“I have taught you to cook everything very thoroughly, but occasionally I like the
meat to be rare.” Suzue placed his thumb in the blood and smeared the bottom of
Akemi’s lip with the smelly liquid. Red suits her.
The girl widened her eyes in shock.
“You will help me bathe tonight.”
She tried to wipe the blood from her lip with the back of her hand. Suzue grabbed
her sleeve. “No, use your tongue.”
Akemi turned away and licked the bottom of her lip, “The new bath house does
not allow men and women to mingle.”
“Akemi, have you not noticed already that I do not go to public baths? I know
you watch me all the time. Come to my room after dinner.”
In the garden, Densuke gently watered the chrysanthemums. For such a brutish
looking man, the motions of his arms and fingers were oddly graceful. His own sweat
from a hard day’s toil glided down his wide back nurturing the colorful garden
permanently imprinted on his skin with ink. He gently set down the dark brown bucket
and pulled out a hairpin from his pocket. Densuke’s constant contact with Akemi planted
the seeds of affection in his simple heart. The honest man has allowed her to live in his
room this whole time as he slept outside like a loyal guard braving the elements and the
mosquitoes. In exchange for his generosity Akemi cooked, cleaned and smiled for him.
He was determined to win her affections. She must turn to me, I’m a good person.
“Take off your clothes.” Suzue smiled from the anticipation.
“Y-you wanted me to help you bathe master?”
“In a while. I need to examine you and take measurements so I can buy you a
special present.” Ono wrapped the tape around four of his fingers.
Akemi stripped slowly and crouched on the floor hugging her knees.
“I need you to stand. Don’t be afraid Akemi, I have only the best of intentions
towards you.”
He gently measured the width of her shoulders, arms, chest, waist, hips, legs and
recorded them in his notebook. Suzue was concerned. Akemi is so fair and plump in the
- 143 -
right places but she is not arousing me. Were he merely noting the numbers for a
kimono he would be done. Ono was trying to calculate her body mass. I’ll have to weigh
her some other time.
The young master of the house crouched and gently massaged the bones at
Akemi’s narrow ankle. He was amazed, women are so delicate. He kissed the back of
her knee, where the two blue-green veins ran parallel beneath the thin skin. Akemi
jumped and grabbed her kimono.
He blocked the exit of his room, “It’s all right if we do this. I love you.” The
doctor made his voice as soothing as possible.
The country girl looked into her master’s noble face and stated, “You love me.
Me?”
“Yes. I love you. I love you with my entire spirit.” Suzue looked into her eyes.
Suzue unbuttoned his shirt and watched Akemi’s reaction. Her cheeks were
becoming more flushed. She looked away and he grabbed her hands, placed them on his
hips and pants, “Take them off me.”
Akemi pulled away frightened.
Women are different. They are socialized to deny themselves. David was scared
as well. Suzue inhaled and commanded himself, do not compare this woman to David.
No one is equal to my angel.
Suzue shed his clothes stood naked before her.
He placed her hands on his chest, “Look at me.”
She shook slightly when he kissed her as gently as possible, crushing her small
body in his arms. Nothing. My body is not responding. Ono guided her small soft hands
down his abdomen, “Touch me.” Her neck smelled like cheap powder and sweat. I have
to buy her a better powder.
Akemi looked away but she allowed her hand to be pushed down to his manhood.
He sighed and pretended to be content, “Akemi, make me happy. Caress here.”
The young woman was still confused. He rubbed her neck and shoulders, “Do
this to love me back.”
She leaned in close and caressed his shaft, intrigued by the the reaction she was
getting. I understand, the more she responds, the more my body will reciprocate noted
- 144 -
Suzue. He pressed her back onto the soft bed and slowly buried his face in between her
round breasts, painting the area with his tongue. Suzue moved down her torso as he
kneaded her breasts. His breath caressed her sex.
“Stop” Akemi’s eyes fluttered open, “I, please stop…I just…this month.” She
wanted to hold his head between her hands but did not dare to.
Suzue sucked the inside of her pale thigh and pressed his face closer to the
sensitive flesh, attracted by a familiar scent, “How many days?” The smell of blood
made desire race throughout his body. Ono unconsciously licked the top of his outer lip
with just the tip of his tongue. His medical training would tell him that women in such a
state were foul and that their wombs were open but his instinct was suppressing his
judgment.
“I stopped yesterday, please, you must not...pollution.” She tried to get up from
the bed but he kept his body on her short legs, “I want to. Remember I love you Akemi.
I love you with my entire spirit. Don’t you love me?”
She blinked and nodded.
Ono began to devour Akemi slowly, his tongue savored each flavor and the
different texture of the outside and inside of her femininity. The trace of copper mixed in
with the nectar of Venus began to heighten Suzue’s senses. She was ready, waiting and
so was he.
He watched her face as he entered her slowly. Suzue wanted to drive into her
fiercely but the expressions from her face and the sounds from her small lips were so
fascinating to witness.
Akemi turned her head and bit the bottom of her lip when he was fully inside her.
Suzue moved faster as her body spasmed around his shaft. He squeezed Akemi’s
breast in his right hand and she whispered, “It hurts.”
“Do you want me to stop?” Ono looked into her eyes steadily.
“No, I love you too.”
She arched her body and held his muscular shoulders. Unlike the tightness of
David’s body, Akemi’s passage was slick and soft. A different sensation. Ono opened his
eyes and withdrew at the sudden realization, Akemi cannot take my seed. A woman of her
- 145 -
grade cannot carry my child. This was a risk. I’ve gone too far but his cock ached for
release. He groaned when he pulled out of the hot crevice of her body.
The master of the house released the servant and fell on his back, twisting the
sheets in his hand. Suzue clutched the based of his hot flesh, “Akemi, give me your
mouth. Finish me.” Watching the servant pleasuring him and drinking his release caused
Suzue to forget his original aim in taking her. Did I do this to enjoy a new experience or
to lose my mind? She’s driving me mad. Suzue tried to control his body. Instead he
moved his hips off the bed slightly, begging her not to stop. He growled. I need her. I
can’t control myself. My body needs a woman?
She collapsed on his hard abdomen gagging slightly and wiped her mouth. Ono
reached down and held her face, “Akemi do not soil the bed sheets. They are very
expensive. Be sure to swallow it all.” He closed his eyes and filled his lungs. The man
never felt so relaxed and content. Suzue heard her coughing. If I want to maintain
control over myself, Akemi will have to be a temporary vessel. This woman is dangerous.
She closed her eyes and slept peacefully. He whispered, “Akemi, do you want to be my
woman or my mouse?” The slumbering country girl did not answer. Good, a mouse is
less dangerous than a woman.
~~~~~~~~~~
In the morning, Densuke ran into the kitchen and saw Akemi wiping a porcelain
plate dry. The young master must eat off of strange containers thought Densuke he’s so
different and I am so plain.
“Akemi, look what I bought for you.” Densuke offered a hairpin, “It is used but
still pretty.”
The maid smiled, “It is very nice!” She turned around allowing him to put the pin
in her hair, “Thank you.”
“Will you marry me? I have no go-between so I must ask you like this. When the
old master returns he can make a formal request if you like.” The rickshaw puller looked
at Akemi’s white toes.
Akemi took a step back, “Marry? You? I need time to think.”
- 146 -
“Do you refuse me? Is it because you like the young master? He is too high for
you. I saw you and him last night.” As soon as Densuke blurted out those words he
regretted them.
“What?” Her eyes were wide with embarassment.
Densuke meekly replied, “You followed him into the bath house.” After you came
out of his bedroom.
She was angry that Densuke had spoken the truth, “Why were you watching us--me?”
“I came back from dumping the garbage. I wanted to escort you home as usual.
You must have forgotten, it’s dangerous for you to walk home so late at night.”
“Home? It’s your room, not my home,” she removed the hairpin, “Take it back
Densuke.” Akemi nearly stabbed his chest with the ornament, “I can find a new place to
live.” Densuke you poor oaf, I belong to the young master. You cannot court me!
“You can have it.” The gardiner’s eyes were soft from his sadness, “The young
master is very different from normal folks like us. He cannot love you.”
“Do not drag him down into our conversation.” Akemi narrowed her eyes, I have
always loved him and tolerated you out of necessity.
Akemi turned around to finish her work. Densuke wrapped his arms around her,
“I am good Akemi can’t you see?” The male servant kissed her cheek and let her go.
Akemi was overwhelmed with the smell of sweat and grime from her benefactor. The
young master smells like dry leaves. He is so much better than Densuke in every way.
She shrieked, “Densuke! Stop acting so low.” Akemi slammed her fist into his
chest.
“We are both low Akemi.”
Ono listened carefully to the conversation as he buttoned his vest. His eyes
widened, did that simpleton Densuke kiss her? Touch my little pet? Has he done more to
her without my knowing?!?
The tattooed man left the kitchen dejected and ashamed of his own actions.
Densuke leaned on the thick wooden beam at the entrance and watched the plants
in the garden shiver from a cool breeze. He glanced at the chrysantheumums he planted
- 147 -
earlier in the year. They are so bright! Yet the natural colors would not share their joy in
Densuke’s heart. Ono walked towards his servant and placed his hand above Densuke’s
head, “Today I want you to go and pick up the herbs at the druggist’s store.”
“Yes sir.” Densuke, shirtless as usual, walked down the street quickly. Suzue
found himself entranced by the servant’s graceful movements. His muscles and height
are in good porportion. A shame I’ve never seen him completely naked. Suzue stopped
himself. How can I possibly admire the physical beauty of such a low born person?
Ono brought out a small pencil and drew a line on the pillar marking the spot
where Densuke had placed his head against the wood.
I need to enjoy Akemi more. It would be repulsive if I shared the same vagina
with another man. Ono measured nearly two arm lengths down from the top of the line
and drew a line marking Densuke’s midsection. Densuke is very large but he will allow
me to practice what father has instructed me. He cringed at the possible image of the
rickshaw puller on top of his Akemi enjoying the same mouth, tongue, skin and heat.
Disgusting.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO
Gorou flipped up the sharp edge of the blade and examined it from different
angles, placing it horizontal to his eyes, then pointing the tip down away from himself.
Impossible to determine what could have possibly damaged it. What is clear is that it
impacted something hard, twice, at two points. Probably different occasions. A human
would not likely survive such a slash which could cause the metal to crack. Fujita’s eyes
reflected on the steel which was like hard water. From handling the sword he could not
sense its history, “Was the tsuka changed?” The handle holds the imprint of the wielder,
while the steel itself is the weapon’s independent spirit bestowed by gods through the
artist. “From the looks of the damage, this blade has killed.”
Nobori cleared his throat, “Yes, whoever found it probably replaced the handle. I
was about to remove the fittings and handle today. I have no doubt it has taken a life.”
“Who sold it back to you?”
- 148 -
“One of your own brought it to me Gorou. Someone from the police station said
that it’s from an insignificant case.”
“There is no such thing as an unimportant case Nobori.” He grabbed the
merchant’s kimono, nearly dragging him across the table. “Do you know how often I’ve
heard that? Just because nameless men and women end up dead in this corrupt city does
not mean they are insignificant.” I would have easily become an anonymous corpse in
the civil war as well. Many unimportant people died in those battles. The defeated are
always nameless. The victors names become immortal.
Nobori held up his hands to surrender, “He said that no one touched the file in
years and the papers said the body was in such bad shape they could not even identify it.
The sword was found nearby.”
“Give me the name of the officer.”
“I didn’t ask Gorou, I sell swords, not information.” Nobori cringed from Fujita’s
stare.
Fujita sheathed the blade and placed it in the long wooden box, “Who bought it
years ago?”
“The man I mentioned earlier. The young good looking one. He did not want a
receipt. He heard you and I talking in the backroom that day.”
~~~~~~~~~~
1883 TOKYO
Ono Suzue glanced at the various weapons in the store. It was a museum for
bygone days and testimony to the poverty many samurai faced. Their heirlooms were
now used to feed their families. Political systems change but basic need does not. What
was the value of large cutlery when they have been banned since 1876?
The doctor heard a deep voice from the back of the room, “This is an excellent
sword of the highest grade, but I cannot ask Tokio for money. I have to work for it.”
“Work for money you turned over from your pay? Funny!” Nobori jeered.
“Keep this blade, I’ll get the money somehow.”
The salesman agreed, “Don’t lose sleep over it. I’ll save it for you my friend.”
- 149 -
Gorou turned to look at his friend, “Believe me, the way Tokio makes me earn an
extra little bit for my allowance will keep me up all night.” Fujita finished his tea and left
through the back door.
Nobori returned to the front of the store carrying the sword. Why must these
young men dress so properly to shop? “Good day sir! How can I assist you?” He is tall
for a Japanese. Maybe New Nippon will even create different looking men and women
thought the shopkeeper.
“I’ll buy the blade that man was examining just now.”
“If you heard our conversation, you will know that it is now reserved until the
customer can return with payment.”
Suzue placed an entire month’s rent for the store on the counter, “I do not want a
receipt.”
Nobori tilted his head, “Sir I have other swords which may interest you more.”
“Not likely, I want a fine product,” which can cut through a mountain of a man.
If I cannot fell Densuke in one stroke he may overwhelm me. Suzue added more bills
onto the counter.
The long haired merchant widened his eyes, “Sold.”
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO
Gorou put the box under his arm, “I am reclaiming the blade.”
“What for? Gorou look I have a business to run.” Nobori became frustrated, “Be
reasonable you cannot investigate how this sword was used.”
“I may not be able to solve the case, but it is still from a crime that much I know.”
Fujita glanced around the store, “I’m keeping your little shop legal Nobori.” He left
without looking back, “Otherwise I can and will find a reason to have it closed.”
- 150 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1883 TOKYO
The two loyal and humble servants of the Ono estate tried to avoid looking at
each other for many days. Densuke noticed that Akemi was fidgety, her eyes were
sunken, “Akemi are you sick?”
“No,” she touched the inside of her elbow, “Not any more. The young master is
treating me for an illness.” Akemi was afraid of needles but she trusted her lover. If I do
not allow him to do whatever he wishes the young master will not love me---and he does,
with his entire spirit.
“Densuke did you remove the garbage from the front of the gate last night? I hate
that fat brown cat with the black ears.” Akemi placed her fingers at each side at the top
her head to mimick ears, “It drags out the leftover bits of meat the young master does not
eat.”
“Yes, and I’ll do so again tonight.”
The young male servant looked at the beautiful kimono she wore. All the bold
flowers accentuated her shapely and petite body. He would never be able to afford
something like that for her. The young master could give Akemi everything. Densuke
placed place his large hand gently on her shoulder.
“Densuke stop touching me.” Akemi swatted his hand.
“Akemi, marry me? I’m poor but I’ll take care of you.”
“No,” She looked away, “Stop asking! You are so stupid to keep trying.” Poor
Densuke does not understand I belong to a better man.
“Do you still have the hairpin Akemi?”
“Yes,” the girl squeaked.
Densuke tried to look into her eyes, “Please keep it! And stay as long as you like
in my room. I found another place to rent.”
Akemi looked at his colorful muscular body as he left the kitchen. The flowers on
his back seem to be blooming. She wanted to call out to him and thank him for being an
honorable man. The country girl wanted to apologize for her coldness but something
compelled her to stay quiet.
- 151 -
As the sun set in the distance, Suzue approached the wooden pillar. He focused
on the line which marked the midsection of Densuke and drew the sword from its place
of rest and slashed. Tiny slivers of wood flew from the impact, leaving a triangular scar
in the pillar. The deep line was like a claw mark of a strange beast. The old sword was
slightly damaged from hitting a tiny nail65 in the pillar. Father is a wonderful teacher.
That night, Suzue followed Densuke to a location where Tokyo’s garbage was
dumped and burned.
Densuke emptied the contents of the large basket onto a pile. The smell of dried
blood from the leftovers of the young master’s dinner drifted in the air. He was about to
leave the area when a shadow appeared.
“Young master? What are you doing here sir?” Densuke had never seen the
doctor in a kimono before or with a sword at his side for that matter. The sight was
strange to the servant.
“I would like to discuss Akemi with you Densuke.”
“Sir?”
“Are you interested in her? Or have you lost interest because you enjoyed her
body already Densuke? I have to know.”
The muscular man waved his hands frantically, “Oh no sir! I am a very honorable
man.” He whimpered a confession, “But I kissed her on the cheek. I could not help
myself. I would like to marry her and we can work together and send money to her
parents. They must think she works in a brothel still.”
The doctor panicked, “I asked you to get a clean woman to work at the estate!
Did Akemi ever work in a brothel?” Have I slept with a whore?!?
“No sir she ran away from that place. Akemi’s parents sold her.”
Ono relaxed after hearing the answer. My father is perceptive, he chose a very
honest worker for the estate. Honest to a fault.
“Please permit me to be forward this once master.”
65
Generally, Japanese architecture of that era relied on wooden nails. By the Meiji era, iron nails were
used more frequently but due to expense, their incorporation into structures was limited to absolute
necessity.
- 152 -
“What is it Densuke?”
“Will you please care for Akemi? She and I are uneducated folk—not like you.
We don’t have anyone in Tokyo. I think she is loyal to you. Only you.” Densuke looked
at his sandals. I cannot compare to you young master.
Suzue frowned. How do I care for someone? I shall not waste my time and care
for yet another person aside from my feeble father. “I will make Akemi’s life very
important to me.” And to the world, “Densuke, would you be so kind as to assist me
tonight?” He used his left hand to pull the sword scabbard forward and then down from
his waistband slightly. In the night, Densuke did not notice his young master adjusting
the weapon. He was only content that Akemi will be treasured by a rich and modern man.
If she gives him a son, he will continue to support her. Akemi will have an easy life.
“Certainly, just tell me what to do young master. Do you need me to escort you
home?”
“No you will not be walking me home Densuke. Just stand there.” The doctor
put his right hand on the sword’s handle. “As still as a pillar.” Suzue narrowed his eyes
slightly even though his night vision was very good. Just like the small nail in the pillar
at the entrance of the Ono estate, Densuke’s bottom rib damaged the fine sword.
Several days later, a group of untouchables picked through the small mountain of
trash looking for clothes and items they could use or resell. At first they thought
someone had left a large blanket covered with flowers under a sack of leaves. The
morbid discovery was reported to the police right away. However, in a city full of crime
one more body of a possible tattooed gangster was on the bottom of their list of
investigations. The scavengers covered the body with a tattered mat after swatting at the
small group of butterflies drawn to the flowers on Densuke’s skin. Many of the
untouchables’ sense of smell was dead to the foul odors of the city’s garbage, however all
of them noticed the inexplicable fragrance of spring blooms from the rapidly decaying
body.
When Ono Satoshi returned to Tokyo, burdened by a box full of small shiny
Satsuma oranges and dried goods, he was surprised to see Akemi in a beautiful kimono,
almost as luxurious as that of a geisha. Suzue must have taken Akemi to be his mistress.
- 153 -
Inappropriate! He should marry a woman of our class or seek a geisha for his needs.
On the other hand, he was relieved to see proof his son was a typical man with a natural
drive. “Where is Densuke?”
Suzue bowed, “Welcome home father, Densuke stopped coming to work. He
may have taken a long rest.”
Satoshi frowned, “He was so reliable. Well that means there are more oranges for
us then I suppose.” The elder Ono always thought he was a good judge of character.
Poor Densuke must be heart broken that Akemi is now Suzue’s woman.
Akemi helped carry the packages and the three returned to the estate. Satoshi
related to his son how he had visited the Ise Grand Shrine in Mie Prefecture, purified
himself and rekindled his relationship with the Nishino family there.
“Do you remember the Nishino clan Ryuichi?”
“I answer to Suzue father, please keep that in mind. Yes the Nishino guard the Ise
Shrine do they not?”
Satoshi nodded, “Yes my friend’s boy, Buntaro is growing quickly and very
devoted to the occupation of protecting the deity.” Suzue was not really paying attention
to what his father was saying, he was observing how men on the street were watching his
pretty mouse Akemi.
The patriarch was glad to be home and noted how orderly and clean everything
was. He stopped to pick up what seemed to be a small toy made of straw on the edge of
the patio. It was the dried bodies of two mantises. The male was in the act of mounting
the female. Both of their heads were missing.
~~~~~~~~~~
Without Densuke to help do many of the chores, Akemi had to work very hard.
The young woman swept and polished the floors thoroughly everyday however she was
- 154 -
struck with the severe dizziness which occurred often after she refused to let the master
give her medicine. Akemi leaned against a wooden beam and hugged herself as a sudden
chill possessed her. The beautiful doll of the Ono estate closed her eyes and tried to catch
her breath. I am always so weak now. During her rest, Akemi did not notice that the old
master had returned from donating oranges at a nearby temple. He slipped and fell. She
rushed to his side as he got up from the floor, “Akemi I’m all right. Have Suzue see me
as soon as he is home.”
She can tell from his face that he was in great pain. Every step the aged warrior
made took all his effort. They walked close to the wall so he could support himself.
Akemi helped him to his bed.
~~~~~~~~~~
Why must parents burden their offspring? Many animals raise their brood and
abandon them at the right age. Reptiles like snakes hatch from their eggs nearly self
sufficient. Humans are the weakest species, yet we rule the world. Ono examined his
most important patient and brought out the measuring tape.
“Suzue why must you do that?”
“Out of curiousity father,” I want to see how I compare to you. Perhaps when you
were younger we were the same height. Other than a mild physical resemblance, I can
hardly believe you sired me, “I do this with all my patients. We modern doctors make
note of everything.”
Satoshi looked at the tape his son placed between his toes and stretched up to the
top of his head. “Measurements. Man is measured by his learning, his status, wealth and
even his looks,” Satoshi glanced at Suzue, “there is one more characteristic equally
important to a man’s honor Suzue. It is something which cannot be measured at all.”
Suzue was writing numbers in his notebook, “What is it?”
“Love.”
“Ah I see.” Old age does ravage the mind and commands the mouth to spew
nonsense. I hope never to suffer in a similar way. The physician pretended to be
attentive to his father’s words, “I assumed loyalty to one’s lord was important.”
“Loyalty is very important yet so is love for one’s progeny. I cannot sleep well
knowing that my only son is unaware that his parents cherish him.” Satoshi could not
- 155 -
read his son’s immaculate face. It was a wonderfully harmonious face with skin as
flawless as that of a famous courtesan, deep black brows, long intelligent eyes, graceful
nose and lips always curled slightly in a smile. The face was like a jade mask, a treasure,
so wonderful to behold in any light.
“I criticized you before I left Tokyo because it seemed that you do not honor your
mother. Once a woman brings a son into the world, she is to be revered even in death. I
could not sleep well during my time at Satsuma-han, afraid that you forgot her. Before I
left, I told her that you are now a good adult and that she should be proud.”
The doctor closed his book and adjusted the pillow underneath his father’s head,
“Father, all my patient’s sleep well. Don’t worry.” Suzue placed his hands over his
father’s wrinkled arm and massaged it slightly. I must compare his skin to my other aged
patients and determine exactly when the body becomes so unattractive, when the skin
becomes leathery, when muscles becomes soft and the bones so brittle.
Satoshi closed his eyes, if I am to be measured by the accomplishments of my only
heir, then perhaps I shall die a great man. He slept peacefully as his good son squeezed
his arm. Suzue is a good and affectionate son.
Satoshi did not trouble his heir long. The doctor gave the Satsuma samurai
permanent rest shortly before the arrival of Kawano Tomoji the pet rabbit.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO
Gorou was going to return the blade to the police station when he stopped to
glance at the food vendor. “Idiot butcher is still fussing with that knife,” He clenched his
teeth and slammed the box with the sword down on the counter, “Give it to me.” Gorou
wrested the small knife from the shocked vendor’s hand, “No matter how many times
you fix the pin the blade will still shift. You need a new handle altogether. The problem
is the wood. Do you understand!?!” He glared at the man. As Fujita held the knife, a
cold sensation crawled up his arm and he looked at his own shaking hand. Pain. Anger.
This feeling is not from the butcher. Who owned this knife?
- 156 -
~~~~~~~~~
1886 GERMANY
Dr. Odeon pressed the golden watch to his ear as he lay in a luxurious bed. The
soothing tick, tick, tick lulled him to sleep without trouble tonight. Adolph von Beyer’s 66
medicine is working. He may be wrong about indigo being the most beautiful color. Red
is the most precious and lovely of hues, but his skills as a chemist are unsurpassed. I
must have slept four hours yesterday. Robert enjoyed one of his favorite dreams of
Akemi and how she made a special dinner for him one last time….
~~~~~~~~~~
1883 TOKYO
Akemi was arranging the dishes carefully and soaked the chopsticks and
silverware in boiling hot water, as the master of the house had taught her so many times.
The woman felt a tingling at the back of her neck. She turned and faced Suzue, “Yes
sir?”
“Akemi, would you please make dinner for me?”
“What would you like to have sir?”
“My favorite remember?”
The young woman wanted to leave the estate but the recent letter from her parents
asking for more money kept her bound in this occupation. Even after Suzue had stopped
administering what he called “medicine” she was still afraid of him. Occasionally her
hands shook and she felt ill but none of the traditional doctors knew what was wrong.
She did. The man responsible was standing before her now.
“Master, there is no red meat, I’ll have to go buy some. Maybe the butcher has
closed for the day.”
Suzue placed his arms around her shoulders, “Akemi, I know where we can find
some.”
66
Johann Friedrich Wilhelm Adolf von Baeyer (1835-1917) is famous for synthesizing industrial grade indigo dye,
barbituic acid (used in surgery to knock out patients) and founding the the Baeyer Chemical Company.
- 157 -
The country girl left the sprawling estate with her keeper and walked into the
night towards her humble home.
“What is your favorite place in Tokyo, Akemi?”
“The river. Sumida River sir.” She grew increasingly frantic but her body
remained in control of Suzue, “Densuke and I lived there.” Akemi looked at the people
who walked past her. They glanced at how the young doctor held her shoulders. It was
very inappropriate behavior for a man and woman to walk in public that way! For such
a well dressed and elite looking man he should understand basic etiquette, the
commoners murmered.
Help! She tried to call out but her lips remained smiling. Akemi looked for a
familiar young man with flowers on his body. The mouse saw a young man, Help me!
He is going to hurt me! Her inward panic expressed itself as a slight grin to this rickshaw
puller, Densuke where are you? I need you! How foolish of me to have not loved
Densuke, he was kind and honorable.
Suzue looked at his pet mouse, “Show me where the fishermen haul up their nets.
I need to know where they do this regularly. I want them to catch something special
tomorrow morning.”
Akemi pointed into the murky water near her home, “Here. The net has been
sunk already for the evening. This old fisherman has a strange way of doing things.”
The doctor sniffed her neck. She smells so nice with the high grade powder I
gave to her, “As long as the net is sturdy it will be perfect. Good, now you can take me
to the rice warehouse. I need to weigh you for my notes. I’ll have to compare you with
bags of rice Akemi,” He touched her nose fondly. Some of my information is flawed
because I did not get this critical detail for my calculations.
Inside the small cramped room, Suzue walked towards the kimono box and
opened it, “Akemi where are the kimono I bought for you? There was a deep red kimono
with black flowers and a black one with red flowers. It took me some time to determine
the best pattern for you.”
“Forgive me master, I sold them to get money for my parents.”
- 158 -
Ryuichi placed the suicide letter on the table, the stationary store was closed so he
had to use paper from his desk, “You still love them? Densuke told me they sold you to
the red-light district.”
“They were hungry.” Akemi’s doe like eyes began to water and her long
eyelashes began to clump together, “I was sold because my younger siblings had nothing
to eat.”
“I have nothing to eat as well. Please go to the kitchen and start dinner.”
~~~~~~~~~~
Dr. Odeon pressed the side of his face into a pillow full of goose feathers and
smiled as he slept peacefully. His smooth bare chest rose and fell with every steady
breath. Robert kicked the silky covers away from his naked body and stretched out lazily.
~~~~~~~~~~
The sharp knife clattered slightly in its handle. Akemi’s hands were shaking as
she looked down on the old cutting board. Ono pulled up her sleeve and guided her left
arm down on the slab of wood forcing her to bend at the knee slightly so her arm would
lay completely flat, “You don’t have to slice thinly. Cut out as much meat as possible
tonight.” He tapped the inside of her elbow over the entry point of the needle, “Start
cutting here. It’s the best part. I’m very hungry.” The woman opened her mouth slightly
and her eyes glistened with tears.
“Akemi I am very hungry.” Suzue whispered in her ear.
The woman with no last name inhaled, stood up straight and turned to her master
slowly pointing the blade at his gut. It was the shirtless Densuke who was adorable and
loving. Not this reptile before me who is beautiful and wears a nice skin. Her hands
were still shaking. I can do this she told herself. Akemi! Fight! You have to! Wake up!
A strange whimper slipped out from between her slightly chattering teeth. Did you hurt
Densuke? He would never just disapper! Akemi wanted to yell the question but only a
strangled sound erupted from her throat.
Did she squeak ‘help’? Suzue nearly laughed. Then I will have to help her! Ono
rearranged her body and arms, “Akemi you love me that is why you will make dinner for
me. Do everything as usual.” He pulled up her left sleeve again, “The best part is there.
- 159 -
I’m very hungry tonight. Remember, I love you with my entire spirit. This is how you
love me back Akemi.” He looked at her steadily without blinking.
She nodded as tears began to fall from her eyes onto the cutting board, “Do you
wish me to boil it?”
“No that’s all right just place it on a dish. I’ll have it raw tonight.” Suzue
smoothed the bottom of her quivering lips with his thumb and looked into her eyes. He
saw his face in her large brown orbs.
She began to press the blade into the pale meat and did not stop even when the
blood gushed out onto the board and counter. Cow meat is usually not this bloody she
thought but kept cutting.
Ono looked at the meal laying on a flat plate normally used for simple meals like
sushi. He was tempted to try it. Ah but I am used to tasting Akemi already, her varied
flavors bore me. Ingesting more of her may be dangerous. Who knows what she harbors
in her blood? Yet her blood is the most delicious. His sex awakened at the sight of
Akemi’s blood on the lacquer plate. This is why Akemi and I must sever our relationship.
The experiment is over and her ability to control my body during mating is frightening.
Not even true mating, just the act dominates my intellect. Suzue looked at the woman.
She was leaning forward with her left arm still outstretched and soaking with the blood.
Her face was becoming pale.
The two stood facing the Sumida river.
“Akemi, throw the knife into the water. It is dirty now.”
She did.
When the mouse obediently jumped into the large net and in the river, the moon’s
reflection on the surface shattered. Suzue dropped the skin and muscle outside of the net
hoping it would draw the watery scavengers away from his mouse until morning. He
checked his pocket watch and returned home to the sleeping Kawano Tomoji, his new
precious creature.
- 160 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO
Gorou turned to the butcher, “Close the shop and buy a new blade.” How many
customers has this blade served, including myself? The kitchen knife from Akemi’s room
was missing. The officer put his hand over his gut. Fujita felt acid pouring into his empty
stomach. I have to stop thinking about this. This is making me sick. It cannot be.
He took the sword and knife towards the small Buddhist temple near his home.
Inside the sacred grounds he asked a withered priest, “Please conduct a funeral for them.”
Fujita placed the two polluted steel implements before the monk who assisted with these
cases and pressed his forehead to the ground. The monk nodded, “Do you have their
names?”
“I do not know…for sure. Maybe just one of them.” Gorou saw his reflection in
the shiny blades.
“Fujita-san are they your relatives or more nameless ones?”
“Nameless---as usual.” Fujita rubbed his arms.
The monk frowned, bringing his white eyebrows together, “You really have no
idea Gorou?” I can tell when you are lying.
“No, not for certain.” The officer put his hand over his mouth then held his
throat.
“Fujita-san, are you ill? Would you like some tea?”
“No please do not let me trouble you. I am not feeling well but because I do not
want to know who these victims were. It is best that I not eat or drink anything for a
while.” When was the last time I ate from that wretched vendor? That knife feeds so
many in the city. We are all tainted. He choked.
The monk pulled the items in closer, “Fujita-san if you need to leave, you may.
I’ll take care of them. They will not suffer any longer.”
Gorou bowed, “Thank you revered one.”
As the man with five names walked home he kept his eyes fixed on the floor, he
was humbled by the understanding that throughout all this time, his determination in this
case had been fed all along. He thought of the boy from Aizu, Shiba Goro from so many
- 161 -
years ago who admitted to subsisting on a canine and then the long lines of people who
waited for that knife to carve meat. How can I measure the extent of Ono’s crimes?
The monk carefully set the kitchen knife and sword on a low alter and prepared to
go and bathe before conducting the simple ceremony. Out of curiousity he glanced back
at the tainted steel and saw they were in fact brittle from rust and age. Did Fujita-san see
these damaged items as I do now?
- 162 -
- 163 -
Tinted Glasses
1886 THE DARK CONTINENT
Theodor Jaeger leveled his rifle at the darkness surrounding the camp, “Maddalen
you have to save yourself.” He heard a twig snap and turned around, “Fucker! Tyger!
Tyger! burning bright, In the forests of the night, 67” he shouted as if he were mad.
The slender woman also clutched a weapon, “Don’t be foolish Theodor shouting
Milton at it is ridiculous—and---You’re ruining my concentration.” She looked at her
husband’s now tan skin, his short beard and open shirt revealing his well-defined chest,
“I’ll never leave you. I have no regrets. We share everything remember?” Even our fate.
Jaeger hollered, “What immortal hand or eye Could frame thy fearful symmetry?
Come out you son of a bitch!”
“It’s not a tiger Theo. We don’t know what species it is.” Mrs. Jaeger’s eyes
darted about trying to detect the lurking menace, “Quiet!”
“If it was created by God, then I can kill it.” The large German man’s knuckles
and fingers ached as he held his weapon tightly, “I’ll skin it with my own hands, how
dare it devour our guides. Does it have any idea how expensive they were?”
The heels of the two hunter’s boots pressed into the dry dirt as they pushed their
backs against one another. Theodor Jaeger, the only son of the Beyer company’s most
powerful official breathed, “If we make it out of here. I want us to start a family just like
normal couples.”
“We are normal Theo. Shush.”
A low growl resembling thunder, rumbled in the distance.
“Not in all ways, Maddalen, but I love you still.”
Maddalen dashed to the fire and grabbed a lighted branch and tossed it towards
the menacing sound, “I also have two pistols on me and a knife Theo.”
“It won’t be enough. These rifles may not be enough. Did you see the size of the
one I killed?”
67
William Blake’s THE TYGER from Songs of Experience(1789)
- 164 -
Mrs. Jaeger returned to her husband’s side, “I can tell from the fangs that it’s only
a cub. It could be their baby. If the coloring of the adults are the same then it is neither
tiger nor lion.”
Theo took a deep breath, “No animal takes revenge on the death of its offspring.
It is their instinct to protect their young only.”
“These are not simple beasts Theo, you knew that since we started the hunt.”
Sweat crawled down the side of Maddalen’s face, “There has to be two. They’re mates.”
“Well they came to the camp on their own. I’ll show them that their boldness is a
mistake. I’ll feed the fuckers bullets.” Jaeger saw a movement out of the corner of his
eye and tried to step in front of his wife. He fired one round into the darkness,
“Nothing.”
Maddalen tried to catch her breath, her bosom rose and fell rapidly.
Neither of them saw the second creature leap from the brush. Amidst the
numerous shots and screams the young heirs of the Jaeger family had no chance to
admire the most beautiful and rarest animals they had ever seen.
The large cats’ eyes were deep violet and blue like the feathers of a peacock.
They had fangs as sharp as diamonds,
Claws honed by the smith in the underworld and
Metallic colored fur which shimmered like all the treasures of the earth.
~~~~~~~
1886 LONDON, ENGLAND METROPOLITAN POLICE DEPARTMENT
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION DIVISION, SCOTLAND YARD
The sign outside the office door simply said, “Anton Marquis” without denoting
rank, division or specialization with the department of Criminal Investigation Department
(CID). Even without clarity of his role, Anton was respected for his ability to get results.
His superiors never bother to have him explain how he was successful in handling such
difficult cases. Inside the small room full of books and papers was a heavy set man, a
retired former boxer, in a deep sleep. His loving wife Theresia held his bearded face with
both her elegant hands and tried to wake him. She whispered, “Anton, Anton you musn’t
- 165 -
doze at work dear.” He would not respond. But that was to be expected. Anton has been
agonizing over the case he received from the British Legation in Japan and spent many
nights in the room and focusing on the peculiar large fragrant wooden box on his table.
Under the box was a pile of papers describing the case, which seduced Marquis and kept
him from returning to his empty home.
She shook him again, “Dear, dear wake up.”
Mr. Marquis was still snoring and turned his back to her on the leather couch.
His eyelids quivered as he relived again a terrifying night from his past.
It was 1884 and Anton had just returned from his time in the royal expeditionary
force in Alexandria Egypt and received a low rank in the Metropolitan Police
Department. He worked nights disguised as a cabman, collecting information on the
streets. Although everyone was nervous about the bomb threat from the Fenians, Irish
Nationalists, no one bothered to remind the stocky cabby of the danger.
He drove the horses slowly to the CID curious to see if there was anyone about.
Perhaps I can invite a fellow for a drink. Anton instinctively turned to St. Stephen's
Tower to check on the time even though he could not see that far into the distance
through the darkness. The clock did not chime on the hour --- it must not even be 9 pm
yet. He walked slowly to the CID hoping that one day he would make Theresia proud by
working in this division .
Anton’s smile faded when the edifice began to unravel. It was as if the walls of
the building, shards of glass flew towards him slowly at first like flower petals carried by
the wind, followed by an incredible burst of air. Years of boxing trained him to quickly
bring his forewarms up to his face and neck. It saved his life but not his hearing. His
fellow officers rushed to his side calling his name. With every movement, Marquis’ body
crushed and ground the tiny blades of glass on the floor around him. His body was
pummeled by the exploding debris. He looked up confused and tilted his head side to
side trying to stop the loud hum in his left ear. Finally the tone stopped altogether but he
could still hear someone yelling in his right ear, “God have mercy, Anton don’t move--don’t”. The officer did not need to tell him. He could not budge at all---not for many
days.
- 166 -
Theresia looked at her husband’s face. His brows, hair and beard were peppered
with grey. Anton’s chiseled features were far from handsome. Even when Marquis
smiled, he looked fierce. He whimpered in his sleep. She knew the only way to wake up
him was to push him off the couch. So she mustered all her strength and rolled him off
the couch.
The officer rubbed his eyes and looked around “Theresia?” Gone. He crawled a
bit on the floor like a large clumsy bear before getting up to open the door, “Sir?” the
Chief of Police had been pounding on the door for several minutes.
“Marquis how many days have you spent here? Nevermind, don’t answer. I’m
here to tell you that we have secured funding for your travels. Do you have a country in
mind yet?” The Chief lifted his eyebrow at Marquis’ unkempt appearance.
“I sent a notice to all of Japan’s Legations in various countries asking for brief
resumes of the Nipponese living abroad---“
“And?”
Anton stifled a yawn, “I have not heard back from all of them yet. The Legations
were also asked to send the notice to universities and major companies which may
employ Nipponese. I do appreciate your efforts on my behalf however I cannot
determine the direction of the case yet.”
“Not on your behalf Marquis---but for the Jap Queen. It’ll be an interesting day
when they start demanding that they be treated like a western country.” He shook his
head, “They ought to know their place in the world. It’s ridiculous how we must take
orders from THEM” he grumbled, “But you do know how important this case is correct?
The reputation of the CID is at stake.”
Marquis nodded and patted the box on his table. The Chief sighed and left the
room, he better be as good as they say he is.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 GERMANY BEYER COMPANY LABORATORY & OFFICE
“Did you clean these instruments?” Ono Suzue stared at the young medical ward
attendant, “Well? Answer me.”
- 167 -
“Sir, I was told that was not necessary,” the thin young man looked at the doctor’s
feet.
“Who? Those doctors who still apply leeches to their patients and bleed them?
Never listen to those ridiculous fools and their outmoded science if you can call it that.
Soak those implements in boiling hot water, then in alcohol and let them dry on a tray.
Do not wipe them with a filthy cloth.” This was the second time this week his assistants
have deviated from his commands and took orders from senior researchers in the
company. If Suzue were alone with the young man he would be tempted to strike the
assistant across the face for nearly sabotaging the research.
Perhaps that’s what they want. Maybe they wish to discredit me? I have been here
in this frozen hell called Germany for all this time and they have yet to fully treat me as a
senior researcher and continue to scoff at the abundant evidence pointing to the existence
of bacteria. Of course, after the last culling of patients they have an excuse to destroy my
credibility.
He entered the large room full of beds and feeble puppets of flesh and blood. All
the patients ceased their conversations and looked up at him simultaneously. Each one
bore a weak pleasant smile and their eyes brimmed with trust, as they looked upon their
respected guardian the exotic Japanese healer named Dr. Robert Odeon.
Another attendant handed him a folder, “Doctor, this new group is very obedient
and all have taken their medication and food happily yesterday.”
“I would not expect otherwise.” Odeon skimmed the papers, “all my patients
place their complete faith in me.”
“The company received a request that Nipponese submit their resume to the
legation for documentation purposes. And Dr. Odeon, Mr. Jaeger is waiting for you
inside your office.” The attendant hastily departed and left Suzue wondering why the
company’s major stockholder wished to see him.
As Odeon quickly walked down the hall with the report he heard familiar hushed
voices of Griess and Fischer behind a partially opened door of another lab.
“Dr. Odeon the other day yelled at an assistant and threw the tray of utensils on
the floor when he suspected they were not sanitized.”
- 168 -
After some brief laughter another voice answered, “Let this be a lesson to all of us
vigorous men. He obviously cannot find a woman from his own kind and it causes him
to become frustrated. He can change his name to Robert but he cannot change his
oriental looks.” Fischer was careful to emphasize the word “frustrated”.
Suzue frowned. I am an attractive if not completely handsome man. Why, I even
occasionally thanked my ancestors for giving me such a beautiful and robust body. Ah
but I am not German. Ono ground his teeth as he listened to Griess and Fischer’s
comments.
“True, three years is a long time without one of those sing-song girls.”
“Gay-shaah, that’s what they are called” Griess exclaimed.
“Yes! Geisha. In any case I cannot imagine a German whore sleeping with him.”
The two men emerged from their lab as Odeon slipped into a shadow. They did not lock
their lab and he quietly entered. He walked past the cage of the purposefully starved and
diseased mice and opened the latch of a box housing a healthy group. Bright eyed and
agile rodents sniffed his fingers and a small light brown mouse, attracted by his scent,
hopped onto his palm.
If they wish to ridicule me and destroy my work then perhaps I shall amuse myself
with their precious creatures.
Suzue opened the door of his office to see an elderly man with a snowy
moustache and beard jump out of the comfortable chair.
Mr. Jaeger smiled, “It’s been a long time Robert! I hear that you lost one group
of patients. That was a real tragedy, but more importantly a waste of time. I’m counting
on you to be successful with this new flock to prove your point about the medication. I
completely agree with your assertions about bacteria and the havoc they can wreak on the
human system. I trust your work.”
Suzue bowed, “An honor to meet you again sir. Can I help you with anything?”
He brought the mouse out of his pocket, and placed it gently on his arm. It
scurried down onto table and stood on its high legs swaying back and forth to survey its
surroundings with its poor vision.
- 169 -
“Oh just here on a visit,” the wealthy Mr. Jaeger smiled at the inquisitive rodent,
“Odeon, I see you found yourself a friend. Careful you don’t lose her on your desk.”
“I will not,” Suzue grabbed a glass dome, which covered a small golden desk
clock and slammed it down on the mouse. The edge of the small but heavy container cut
off some of her tail and the animal jumped up protesting the pain and pushed against the
glass as its remaining bloody stub whipped around.
Jaeger winced at the sight, “I hope you don’t mind my saying this but I see you
almost as another son. An oriental son if I may say so. You have done incredible work
for Beyer and it is about time we promote you.”
Ono could hardly contain his enthusiasm as he sat down across the old man. The
young man had all the money he could want. What he needed was authority to expand
the research and get results fast.
Jaeger smoothed his short beard, “But before we discuss your career, I want to
speak to you as a father.”
It was difficult for me to deal with my own birth father and yet this elderly
German fool continues with this presumptuous tone. Ono smiled and kept up the façade
of interest.
“And if you are somewhat like a son to me then may be you would help my real
son. You see, Theodor and his wife Maddalen were married just before you joined us
three years ago. Oddly, they have not been able to give me a grandchild, an heir to carry
on the honored Jaeger name. Instead they travel around Europe visiting relatives and
most recently returned from Africa.” The wealthy man tried to assess Ono’s reaction.
Suzue watched as the rodent stopped to struggle in its clear prison and collapsed
exhausted on the table’s surface. The delicate furry body shook with fear and finally
closed its eyes.
Robert Odeon looked up, “Is there a health issue Mr. Jaeger?” Is your Theodor
interested in Maddalen? The corner of his lip curled slightly.
“Robert you were born for this sacred profession. You read my mind! Now,
Maddalen has seen a physician and she is in prime health for childbearing. However,
Theodor would not be subjected to a medical exam and I was hoping you could help.”
Jaeger’s eyes brimmed with trust, like those of Ono’s patients in the room nearby.
- 170 -
“Certainly, simply give me the time and day Mr. Jaeger.”
“Splendid I knew you would understand. My stubborn boy did see you once on
that day we hired you. He remembers you quiet well. In any case, Theodor and
Maddalen will be in the city next week to attend the opera Cosi fan tutte by Mozart you
can join them. I’ll arrange for your ticket so you can meet them.”
Ono was disgusted at the thought of attending such entertainment. He frequently
needed time alone in the evening to try and induce the state of rest, “Opera?”
“Yes, it’s a charming story about animal magnetism, very enjoyable nonsense
Robert.” Jaeger stood to leave the room, “I’ll be attending a very important board
meeting next month and I assure you that your station in Beyer will rise quickly from
here on out.” His smile vanished when he glanced at the table. “Goodness! Robert the
mouse must have suffocated under the glass!”
Ono removed the clear dome and picked up the limp creature. He massaged its
little chest and revived it. The animal thanked him by biting him several times without
drawing blood.
The old man sighed with relief, “You are a miracle worker!”
Suzue opened the door for him, “I look forward to seeing your son, his wife and
watching this opera. I never knew Mozart included animal magnetism into his work.”
Jaeger turned to him, “I would never expect you to pay attention to the charlatan’s
art of mesmerism. A man in your profession would agree it has no place in science.”
“Absolutely not Mr. Jaeger, one must not confuse science with the devil’s work,”
Ono Suzue was glad that his day was turning out better than expected. After watching
the old man leave the building, he filled a needle with strychnine and injected it into the
mouse. He threw the creature into the box full of the hungry and sick vermin. The blood
from the wound would quickly incite an attack and swift cannibalism.
- 171 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO JAPAN
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION: MOMBUSHO
Izawa Shuji bowed to Nakanishi-sensei and Takahashi Hideo, “This is not the
day to publicly challenge Moriyama-sama. He had a very stressful morning.”
Ono’s former superior left the two men and entered the interior of the building.
“Hideo, isn’t Nakanishi the one involved in the case form three years ago?”
“Yes, he was pressured to leave the prepatory school and so he has worked as a
biology teacher at the Normal School since then.” Takahashi whispered to his friend,
“Izawa, what is troubling Moriyama?”
“He received a letter from Germany. It came in a black envelop with an
embossed red rose. It was very short and described his death” Izawa looked out at the
main gate and saw that some of the official carriages had begun to arrive.
Takahashi adjusted his glasses, “Oh how horrible, this must be a threat!”
Izawa shook his head, “No I think it was a warning. Unfortunately the letter is
unsigned and without a specific address. All we know is it is from Germany.”
The sound of hoof beats interrupted their secretive discussion. “Why are they
coming to this meeting?” Takahashi glanced at the unusual procession suspiciously.
“Well they have been planning this for a very long time. Some things will
become more official as time passes. Just wait and see.”
Takahashi became serious, “My friend and I would be very interested to see this
letter. We have Moriyama-san’s safety in mind.”
“Look, why don’t you greet the attendees and I’ll retrieve it.” Both Izawa and
Takahashi entered the building after the uniformed men.
- 172 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 GERMANY
Maddalen Jaeger purred into her husband’s ear, “That must be Dr. Odeon a
flawed specimen of the Asiaticus luridus,68” she smirked but kept her large hazel eyes on
Suzue who was standing at the entrance of the restaurant.
Theodor patted her gloved hand, “Your eyes are sharp as usual dear, he is a bit too
tall for his species but his face is alluring.”
“If you like him then I do too. In this light his features are very soft and elegant,”
Maddalen balanced a small piece of cake on the silver fork, “He is skilled in aping our
ways Theodor. Look how well he wears the suit.”
“He carries himself confidently, acting like he belongs in here. My instincts tell
me he is of good breeding probably of their warrior caste. I’ll bring him to our table
now.” Theodor, the heir of the Jaeger family moved towards Suzue. His dark brown
wavy hair, trimmed beard and moustache only heightened his refined sharp noble
features. Theodor Jaeger conducted himself like royalty so Suzue knew right away that
his future in the company depended on his success with this couple. He had to make
them happy.
“Dr. Odeon this minx here is my beloved mate Maddalen,” Theodor proudly
introduced the tall shapely beauty.
After the physician had gently kissed the top her Maddalen’s hand her fingers
brushed the side of his face quickly and even held his chin for a moment. Did Theodor
Jaeger see that breach of etiquette? Suzue was alarmed. Theodor seemed oblivious. In
fact he is still smiling.
She continued to pick at the cake, “Please excuse my rudeness, I always have
dessert for dinner Dr. Odeon. I was so famished I had to start before your arrival.
Theodor has already ordered your meal.”
Odeon placed the napkin on his lap and looked up, “Oh? Well thank you.”
68
Asiatisuc luridus (yellow Asian) is a term used by Carl Linnaeus in this work Systema naturae (1735)
- 173 -
A waiter placed a gold trimmed plate before him.
The younger Mr. Jaeger pointed towards the plate with a knife, “Dr. Odeon, fill
yourself and catch up to my Maddalen.”
“Please call me Robert.” Before the Japanese doctor could examine the plate his
senses were attacked by a disgusting scent. He turned the plate slightly and the large
grey mass of boneless flesh quivered over a bed of white rice.
“I have read that your kind consumes raw fish so I had it especially prepared for
you doctor,” Theodor watched his guest’s reaction carefully. Amusing. He must be
overwhelmed by my hospitality, “Each race must stay with their proper diet.”
“Yes, however….however.” Robert cut into the uncooked reeking meat and
placed it on his fork with some rice. Both Mr. and Mrs. Jaeger were smiling it him,
waiting for him to try the “Japanese” dish. He took the first bite. Rotten.
Odeon poured salt and pepper over the strange meal and kept eating. Chewing on
the repulsive food was too much so he began to swallow the carrion in an attempt to
prevent it from infecting his tongue. The rice was undercooked and the grains began to
dry his throat. More salt is needed. This dinner will make me ill.
“Theodor was trying his best to be thoughtful Robert. I hope this is adequate, it is
certainly better than what Theo and I had in Africa during our safari.” Maddalen grinned,
“Oh I nearly forgot. I brought these for you.” She placed jade chopsticks on the plate.
Dr. Odeon looked at the couple. Do they really wish for me to eat rice off a flat
dish with chopsticks? Am I a source of their entertainment? Suzue glared at the German
briefly.
Theodor caressed his chin, “Maddalen purchased those just for this occasion…”
The physician tried to pick at the repulsive meal. The chopsticks prevented him
from slicing the fish into manageable portions and his attempts to devour the meal
became increasingly clumsy. He tried to control his frustration as he stabbed at the flesh
and made little click, click noises as the smoky green chopsticks hit the plate.
Mrs. Jaeger pointed at a young man who walked by their table, “Theodor, I
absolutely love his suit, you must get one for me!”
“Shall I buy a new top hat for you too precious?” He intoned sarcastically.
- 174 -
“I would expect that. One must be fashionable to collect more delectable French
maids when we go to Paris.” She placed both hands on his cheeks and pinched them
playfully.
What are they talking about? Ono glanced at the pair. He sipped some of the red
wine Theodor had poured for him. Not enough. Odeon quickly drank another glass to
cleanse his palate.
He glanced at his Theodor, “Have you ordered anything for yourself?”
“Well I had a meal earlier and I could not finish as usual. I’m a bit unsatisfied but
I must not be a glutton for such pleasures.”
Maddalen licked the tip of her fork like a cat lapping at a dish of cream, “He had
me for dinner. Or he tried to. My Theodor can never finish.” Her husband laughed
loudly and squeezed her shoulders.
Odeon choked at the strange remark. Am I truly hearing these things? Mrs. Jaeger
moved her chair in close to him and dabbed the corner of Robert’s mouth with her
napkin.
“Look I’ve startled him Theodor!” She placed her hand on the doctor’s chest.
Robert glanced around the full restaurant. No one seems to have noticed the
couple’s behavior towards him. As the only Oriental in the luxurious room he should
have attracted some attention. It was if the Jaeger name and any association with it raised
him to another level or made him invisible.
Maddalen took the chopsticks from his hand, “Robert that is enough dinner for
you tonight.” Her hot breath caressed his neck.
Odeon looked across the table to her husband. Why does he not object to her
actions?
Theodor’s large eyes moved up the Oriental’s chest and finally fixed on the
intelligent and exotic visage. He will be such a wonderful trophy. Odeon is so very rare
and delicate. Not too delicate I hope. Theodor felt the building heat in his sex. The
doctor will please both Maddalen and I.
“Excuse me,” Odeon abruptly left the table to vomit from the foul meal and
equally repugnant hosts.
~~~~~~~~~~
- 175 -
1886 TOKYO JAPAN
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION: MOMBUSHO
Yamagata Aritomo, of Choshu-han, attempted to light his cigar repeatedly, “A
shame Okubo is not here. He always loved these boring gatherings.”
The Minister of Education, Moriyama, paced back and forth at the front of the
room, “Atleast he met death bravely. Okubo wrapped his documents in a cloth while he
was still in the carriage.”
“That’s not what I heard. He promised to give the attackers whatever they
wanted,” Yamagata sucked on the cigar, “There was no escape really, they hacked the
horse’s legs and cut Toshimichi’s head from forehead down past his eyes. 69” Aritomo
traced a line down his face with his gloved hand, “Those assassins were just angry that
Satsuma-han was in power nationally, and I don’t blame them. Satsuma is still enjoying
political eminence today”.70
Moriyama stared at the military man, “There is no more Satsuma-han and
Choshu-han Yamagata-san. There is only Japan.”
Aritomo laughed, “Feuds no longer exist. Not officially. You can say that the
physical borders disappear but the political reach has extended to Tokyo. Choshu-han
will always be here to keep Satsuma in check. Choshu exists within me and my men. I
will personally see to that, honored Minister.”
“It has been many years now since the war let us move on in a positive manner.”
The Minister of Education tried to open the meeting.
Yamagata, exacerbated his ulcers by drinking some alcohol71, “I always listen to
your progressive ideas as long as they do not involve Japanese men mating with western
69
Okubo Toshimichi was killed on May 14, 1878 “…at the height of his power…the strongest man in the
government.” (Iwata 255). See page 253 for different versions of the murder.
70
The assassins were motivated by “…the monopolization of power by Satsuma strongmen…He was murdered
because the opposition…were jealous of his arbitrary exercise of authority…Okubo’s murder set a precedent for
subsequent political assassinations of top government officials.” (Iwata 254) They may also have sought to avenge “the
death of Saigo [Takamori]…” (Iwata 254) Many of the assassins were connected to Toyama Mitsura who later went on
to the found the violent ultra-nationalist group Genyosha (BLACK OCEAN SOCIETY). SEE
http://www.shinsengumihq.com/unmaskmeijistateterror.html
71
Alcohol does not cause ulcers, however it does worsen the problem. Yamagata was an ulcer patient. SEE Hackett.
- 176 -
women,72” the entire room laughed. “They are too big for me! Your worst idea was to
have Japan abandon Japanese and write in barbarian script.” Many of the militarists
slapped the table and choked on their drinks as they recalled Moriyama’s past attempts at
“progress”.
While everyone was attentive to Moriyama’s ideas the participants were more
fearful of the small statured man sitting alone in the corner. He wheezed at the cigar
smoke and crinkled his nose at the smell of horse manure from the bottom of the leather
boots worn by the generals in the room.
“We are all in agreement that an education in morality is essential to the building
of our modern nation. All that is good flows from,” Moriyama bowed slightly to the
portrait of the Emperor, which hung high on the wall in the middle of the room.
“However, morality without discipline is dangerous. We must take our plan one step
further…”
Nakanishi-sensei had grown impatient. He was invited to present his proposed
biology curriculum, instead the meeting veered off course, “Moriyama-san there is
already mandatory military conscription 73. What more do you wish for? All of Japan’s
eligible young men must enter the service. And when they do join, you militarists call
them ‘dirt farmers’ with guns. Teachers give knowledge during the day and in the
evenings help military recruiters. What you speak of is simple loyalty to our Emperor
now that we no longer have our daimyos to serve.”
“Schools, especially the Normal Schools which train teachers ought to become
more militarized,” As Moriyama finished his words many of the military officials grunted
in agreement. “Teachers are even more influential than parents. If teachers become
soldiers then all of Japan will have what is close to a birthright of the samurai united
under one large domain. All citizens will have the nobility of the warrior.”
72
Mori Arinori, the Minister of Education at the time, like many, believed in eugenics. He believed that the Japanese
race could be improved by selectively mating with western women. Some of his ideas may have been derived from his
concern over the health and physique of Japanese children. He was an early advocate of physical education. Learn
more about Mori SEE Hall, Ivan Parker. Mori Arinori. Cambridge, Mass. : Harvard University Press, 1973.
73
“The first conscription law was enacted in 1870…the heaviest burden [was placed] on the lower classes…national
quotas could not be filled until 1873…it was not until after the Satsuma Rebellion of 1877 that Yamagata [Aritomo]
was able to organize a strong and effective army.” (Borton 85)
- 177 -
The man in the corner of the room began to cough uncontrollably. He covered his
mouth with a handkerchief, “Nakanishi-sensei, loyalty IS morality. Morality is now,
defined by our state legally as Shinto, the way of the gods, the way of the Tenno our
divine ruler. To be disloyal is to deviate from that which is good.”
The old anatomy teacher frowned. Takahashi placed his hand on the man’s arm to
stop him, “Please sensei, don’t do this. You do not know who that man is.”
“I humbly disagree sir,” Nakanishi addressed the sickly man, “From what I
know, morality is not loyalty. They are different. Makoto, loyalty, sincerity, can be used
in many ways both good and bad. Makoto is the deep feeling for a goal, a person, people,
a land or institution. Morality is what is right and wrong and can even sway the direction
of makoto if rationality is applied. Both are in the heart of samurai but the concepts are
unique from one another,” Nakanishi remained firm.
Yamagata Aritomo played with a colorful medal pinned to his uniform and looked
up, “Takahashi, will you allow this Nakanishi-sensei from your Normal School to
continue like this? Or shall I have one of my guards remove him?”
Takahashi Hideo pleaded with the old teacher but decided to address Yamagata
instead, “I will respectfully ask Nakanishi-sensei to stop when I disagree with his words.
All that he has stated so far is true. We once worked for a system devoted to the student
using the American educational system. Now there is a reversal from progress made to
place the emperor at the heart of everything. As I see it I think the future of education is
the cultivation of the mind 74. Now there is a priority to teach children that the emperor is
more important than their birth parents. Our Lord has become a father to the entire
nation.”
Moriyama, the Minister of Education, placed his hand on the map of Japan
hanging in the room, “The Emperor has always been the divine father of the land! Prior
to the war he merely granted governing powers to the Tokugawa. Of all people, one such
as you Takahashi, from dishonorable Aizu-han, should understand that a fragmented
Japan will result in only conflict and bloodshed. My plan is to prevent another tragedy.
74
Quoted from Takamine Hideo to Hermann Krusi in a personal letter dated June 16, 1878 Property of Oswego
SUNY (State University of New York at Oswego) Penfield Library Special Collections. Takamine Hideo, formerly the
page of daimyo Matsudaira Katamori, graduate of Oswego Normal School, was a prominent educator, administrator,
translator and art collector in the Meiji Era. He is noted for introducing Pestallozian thought to Japan and
practiced/supported women’s education (many figures of the era spouted rhetoric but did nothing).
- 178 -
There will be no more rebellions, no more criminals to the throne if we are united. You
must remember that education is not for the sake of the student but for the sake of the
state. 75 The state is the body of the emperor. To guard the state is to guard His Majesty.”
Moriyama suddenly felt old because he was repeating an unoriginal rationale. He was
reciting a reason he had once heard from a former enemy. I have become just like them
thought Moriyama. There was no denying that the influence of the younger officials,
Takahashi and Izawa both much younger than him was growing and in reality Moriyama
the former innovator was now a conservative.
Nakanishi pretended not to hear the Minister of Education and instead focused on
the unnamed man in the room, “I am a Christian. However, I teach science which does at
time oppose my beliefs. But I do so to show the path of thought to my students. What all
of you want to do is to have our students build a modern nation based on what is
irrational. Even your idea, that good flows from the Emperor, is in opposition to what
our ancestors believed. Good does not come from just His Majesty, but all of nature
which are are gifts from Amaterasu-ōmikami.76 Our forefathers ask for rain and a good
harvest from local gods—not the emperor.”
Yamagata Aritomo sipped some whisky from a small glass, “Irrational?” he
pointed to the old man, “Nakanishi-sensei the only one illogical here is you. Remember
that to enjoy your retirement, you must live to see your last day work.” He chuckled.
The feeble man in the corner of the room removed the handkerchief from his
mouth. There was a drop of blood on the small cloth but he was used to this condition.
“Nakanishi-sensei, all that is good does come from the Emperor 77, including the
Constitution, which will promulgated in a couple of years. I think your beliefs are
misdirected. In fact we are in agreement with each other. There is a difference in
expression that is all. Our plan is still mixed with Confucianism. So please sit down…”
75
A famous quote by Mori Arinori (conflict in dates are whether or not he said that 1888 or 1889). The quote may be
found in slightly different translations on the internet such as http://www.east-asianhistory.net/textbooks/MJ/ch6_main.htm and most texts on this influential Minister of Education. SEE Hall.
76
Confucianism and state sponsored Shintoism were “standardized” and deviated from local practices which existed
before 1868. For instance, many local Shinto gods were “revised” to be subordinate and united under the Emperor.
Although in feudal times many shrines were “connected” and some directly patronized by the Imperial family, the
Meiji Era ensured that all formally independent local gods fell in line. During the Meiji Era, Buddhism was suppressed
in favor of Shintoism. Amaterasu is the sun-goddess from whom the emperors claim descent.
77
“Inoue’s [Kowashi/Kouashi] educational theory [focused] on “kokutai-based education.” Kokutai was the nativist
ideology of Japan’s national polity that held the view that the emperor and the imperial ancestors were the almighty
centre of all things.” (Khan 219)
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Nakanishi was stunned, “This is not the Confucianism I was taught. It is one
which has been revised by Motoda Eifu78!” The sensei stopped when he realized
something, “Who are you?”
Takahashi shook his head, “Sensei you are making an egregious error. Please
remember that you represent the faculty of the Normal School. For my sake please rest a
little.”
“Then I resign.” Nakanishi looked at his superior at the Normal School,
“Takahashi-sensei, you are too young to realize how futile it is to seek compromise with
those who hold all the power. You will only betray yourself in the end. Even pliable
bamboo when forced to bend too often will eventually break.”
The man in the corner smiled, “To answer your question: I am Inoue Kouashi.79
And, no, I do not agree with Motoda Eifu and all his conservative ideas.”
Nakanishi-sensei was stunned, “Then how can you say that the Constitution is
from His divine hand? We all know you are writing it. You plan to announce that He
wrote it to the public don’t you? I have read about you in the newspapers. You have a
greater role than Ito Hirobumi, the Prime Minister80. All of you hide behind His Majesty
at all times. How dare you label your work as His! Can mortals write for a god?”
“Did Moses not write for your God?” Inoue Kouashi was more than familiar with
western culture and law. He intently studied his opponent, “I do not deny my role in its
ongoing composition. However I do not hide behind our Lord, I am merely expressing
78
Motoda Nagazane (Eifu) was a palace advisor and tutor to the Emperor. Both he and Inoue Kouashi (Kowashi)
were from the same school of thought, based in southern Japan (Kumamoto). Both later wrote the conservative
Imperial Rescript on Education which served to strengthen the undemocratic Constitution. “Motoda…preached a
National Doctrine and a National Ethic that amounted to a revised form of Confucianism.” (Motoyama 198)
79
Inoue Kouashi (Kowashi), was the most powerful man in Japan and yet the most secretive and understudied by
many scholars. Thoughout most of his life he was plagued by various illnesses and eventually tuberculosis. Although
the Ministry of Education was the most underfunded branch of the government, it was second in national influence to
the Army, thus Inoue assumed the role of Minister of Education after Mori Arinori’s death. Inoue was a pragmatist
who strengthened vocational training and suppressed descent with the infamous Teacher Gag Ordinance of 1893
(Motoyama 361). He wanted teachers to toe the line in terms of national politicy but prevented them from expressing
personal opinions which conflicted with the aims of the state.
80
Although the public believed that the Emperor wrote the Constitution, its primary author was Inoue Kouashi with
the assistance of Ito Hirobumi and Karl Friedrich Hermann Roessler. The Constitution was written in complete secrecy
over several years by people who later exploited the legal document for their own aims. “Motoda was rejoicing that
Ito [Hirobumi] had …taken to advocating a ‘Japanese kind’ of constitution.” (Motoyama 229). The document was a
hybrid Prussian and British mixture which undermined democracy and strengthened Imperial power which were
actually exercised by the Sat-cho oligarchy. SEE http://www.shinsengumihq.com/unmaskmeijigovconstitution.html
- 180 -
his Will. Nakanishi-sensei, for my own understanding, as a Christian do you bow to the
image of the Emperor? I would like to know.”
The room became tense.
“No, I cannot have another god before me. The Emperor is not a political figure
but a god. To worship him is against my Christian beliefs. However, I am still
Japanese.”
Yamagata Aritomo looked at Moriyama who had been quiet this whole time,
“Moriyama-san, do you see that even your teachers can breed disunity? If everyone must
bow to the Emperor then certainly teachers must first set the example.” He pointed at the
old man standing, “Nakanishi I warn you, the nail that stands up from the plank is to be
hammered down into place.”
Inoue coughed again, “Christians like you were tortured and killed by the
shogunate and now you oppose those of us who give you jobs. Ironic.”
Nakanishi pulled out the crucifex hanging from his neck, “You care not for
Christians. The army despises our religious schools because they cannot recruit there. I
have never once seen the government’s sincerity, you employ Christians for our western
knowledge only81! We are not treated equally as other Japanese.”
The author of the sacred constitution persisted, “Why do you continue like this?
You embarrass yourself. Every school, every government building will have His likeness
and you stand here and admit before us your utter disloyalty by placing your God above
Him.”
Nakanishi-sensei looked at the table, “I do not care about my career, or how you
define loyalty. I am bold because I have met a man whom we call ‘a man of talent’,
someone we supported financially to help our country. Instead he is nothing but a coldblooded monster. I cannot allow more men like him to be created. He was brilliant, but
incapable of exercising morality. If we simply give students skills and knowledge and
tell them that simple blind loyalty is GOOD then our country will be a breeding ground
for demons. Loyalty to the emperor is dangerous especially if his majesty is advised and
surrounded by corrupt mortals who hold the real power.”
81
Aside from Tokyo University (Tokyo Imperial University) which employed foreign Christians, the Tokyo Normal
School and also Tokyo Womens Normal School were both noted for employeeing Christians.
- 181 -
Several of the uniformed men snarled and slammed their fists on the table and
stood up. Had they been wearing their deadly samurai swords rather than decorative
French sabers, Nakanishi would have been cut down. He quietly left the room.
The last words uttered by his opponent Inoue Kouashi were, “Remember
Nakanishi-sensei, in Japan, democracy is simply patriotism. You must understand we
will not and cannot adopt fully the ways of the west.”
Fujita Gorou stood by the empty carriage of Inoue Kaoru, the Minister of Foreign
Affairs. He joked with one of the guards, “So would you like to trade lunches? My wife
has given me the same meal again today.” The other soldier shook his head, “Even I am
sick of your wife’s soba.”
Nakanishi-sensei, weary but inwardly happy walked into the courtyard and saw
his old friend. He achieved an early retirement but was able to fully express a majority
opinion of many liberal thinkers who did not have this valuable opportunity.
Gorou waved, “Sensei, I have not seen you in a long time! You were at the
meeting?”
“I spoke my mind and spilled my guts. I attained intellectual seppuku
honorably.” Nakanishi smiled at his own passionate expression.
Takahashi had followed the old teacher outside, “And now you have lost your job.
There is nothing I can do for you sensei. The Normal School is directly under the
supervision of Moriyama-san. All the militarists have forced Moriyama-san to accept
your verbal resignation just now.”
Fujita was outraged, “Nakanishi-sensei why did you throw away your job?
Teaching is your life.”
“It had to be done. That animal three years ago betrayed the sacred occupation of
teaching. He killed Kawano Tomoji, his own student, that poor woman Akemi and he
dragged me into it! Gorou only you and I fully understand this matter. We cannot help
the dead. But we must protect the living. The battle is no longer on the field as it was in
the old days. It is all on paper with policies which will shape the new generation. Ono
Suzue is the first of his kind. He is merely the first snake to hatch from a clutch of eggs.”
The old man’s voice was full of emotion today and Fujita took pity on his friend.
- 182 -
“Nakanishi, Ono is defective. Maybe he was born this way. He had to have been
too young for the war. So you cannot really say he is a creation of this new era.” Fujita
patted Nakanishi’s shoulder, “Ono Suzue studied in America, just like Takahashi and my
friend Yamagawa. Those two have odd thoughts as well. Perhaps all those strange ideas
and things he saw destroyed his mind?”
Izawa joined the group, “And here it is the myseterious letter from Germany.”
Takahashi snatched it out of Izawa’s hand and waved it in front of Fujita and
Nakanishi, “I know that I dismissed the connection between the Beyer Company
documents and Ono’s whereabouts that night. But remember Gorou, you told us that
Sutematsu noted how attached Ono was to Moriyama-san.”
“It is not a threat, but a warning. This person cares for Moriyama-san,” Izawa
concluded, “This must be a result of a bond between them. It took me a long time to find
it because Moriyama filed it himself today with a folder full of very old material. There
was a large stack of essays and letters and even a striking portrait of him in pencil.”
Gorou held up his hand, “Stop Izawa-sensei. What was the name on those
letters?”
“There were two names: Ryuichi and Ono ---“
Nakanishi-sensei’s hand shook slightly when he held the small paper, “His
victims will be avenged surely. This is Ono’s handwriting. I have not doubt---how can I
forget the letter he left for us?”
Fujita leaned against the carriage, “There is no address. At least, we can say he is
in Germany. We must send this detail to the man at the Yard.” He watched as Nakanishi
and Takahashi left the grounds. Nakanishi was still energetically advising his younger
superior, “Japan’s educational system is like the textile plant I visited. You put in some
pure cotton, like innocent children, and the machines rip them apart and transform them
into something different. Never put your career ahead of the real danger Takahashi.”
From the second floor of the state building, Moriyama Arinori looked down upon
the group of men in the courtyard. Arinori did not know why they were obsessed over
this enigmatic correspondence and why one of Inoue Kaoru’s bodyguards had to look
into his personal matters. He tossed Ono Suzue’s old letters on his desk. The boy’s, no,
man’s depiction of me when I was still young and idealistic was flawless. He looked
- 183 -
through the most recent letters from 1883. Ono had invited Moriyama to his home, asked
to meet with him and nothing short of begged to renew their relationship. Arinori never
replied to any of these written pleas, afraid that Okubo’s insinuating comments during the
Iwakura mission may have been correct. Did Suzue write the letter out of malice and
anger because I ignored his letters years ago? It still does not make any sense. Why
does he wish to frighten or warn me this way? He gathered the stack of papers to burn
them at home in the fireplace. Just as Suzue may have seen me in a certain light, I may
have been too blind to have appraised him accurately. I even disregarded the rumors
that Suzue was connected to that student Kawano Tomoji and the Rokumeikan scandal.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 GERMANY
The shrill singing, colorful costumes and exciting music intrigued Dr. Odeon
because it seemed completely pointless. Since his youth in America, he developed an
unabashed love of western civilization. Yet it was moments like which gave him some
doubt about the enlightenment of foreigners. He was still weak from emptying his
stomach but now he was fully absorbed in this opera. The magnet of the charcter
Despina, a disguised doctor, uses to draw out poison was invented by Mesmer of Vienna.
Odeon was seated in between Mr. And Mrs. Jaeger who constantly whispered summaries
and translations. He leaned forward to look down on the stage from the balcony to see
the obvious mockery of Mesmer’s82 practice.
“How dull. Father said this would be silly. It isn’t even funny! We should
have dragged Dr. Odeon to London to see Gilbert & Sullivans’s The Mikado83 instead.”
He began to sing with his deep sonorous voice, “If you want to know who we are, We are
gentlemen of Japan, On many a vase and jar--On many a screen and fan.84”
82
“Mesmer remained a friend of the Mozarts…Wolfgang put a direct reference of the doctor into…Cosi fan
tutte…Despina disguised as a doctor draws a huge magnet from under her robe…which signifies the flow of animal
magnetism from the magnet along the patient’s nerves to the stricken areas of their anatomy.” (Buranelli 56-57).
83
The operetta THE MIKADO opened in London and became an instant hit. More importantly, the satirical work
ended up becoming the “face” for all Asian peoples. Although Gilbert, the author would later deny his intent to insult
the Japanese, he had earlier defended its accuracy. His consultant was Algernon Mitford who was the Secretary at the
British Legation in Tokyo. SEE http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Mikado
84
lyrics from THE MIKADO Act I, Scene I by William S. Gilbert
- 184 -
Odeon tried not to glare at Theodor’s rudeness I am trying to watch an opera
and he is singing lyrics to an operetta. Fool.
Mrs. Jaeger answered her husband, “We figure in lively paint, Our attitude's
queer and quaint, You're wrong if you think it ain't, oh!”
Theodor reached behind Odeon to tap his wife on the shoulder, “Maddalen, I
saw Alina below. I’ll go pay my dear cousin a visit.”
Theodor left the balcony and Maddalen leaned on the Japanese slightly, “Alina is
a ravishing young woman with the most brightest copper colored hair you have ever seen.
I would love to introduce her to you except she is terrified of Orientals.”
Odeon tried to move away from Mrs. Jaeger in his chair. She was trying to get
close again. “Why? That is completely irrational. Most Japanese are very civilized,
however I cannot vouch for the Chinese, Coreans or the dark Orientals.”
Maddalen placed her right hand on his knee and slid it up his thigh slowly. Her
hand and nails became claws and she dug them into the fabric of his pants. Dr. Odeon
gently returned Mrs. Jaeger’s wandering hand to her lap, “The one she met in Japan was
hardly civilized. A beast really. She was wounded in your land of the cherry blossoms
and bears physical and mental scars. In any case she becomes a bundle of frayed nerves
when she sees one of your kind.”
My kind. I am to treat Mr. and Mrs. Jaeger who at every opportunity points out
my supposed inferiority? “Mrs. Jaeger I do know a way of treating such patients who
develop irrational fears. It is all in the mind you see. I would be more than happy---“
“Doctor, this girl is damaged beyond repair really. Do not bother.” She placed
her chin on his shoulder. Odeon glanced downward to see the top of her milky white
breasts. Was she the type to scream or try to stay quiet if I bit her nipples? Akemi always
pursed her lips when I tugged at her skin with my teeth. He repressed the urge to imagine
the rest of her naked, under him. Maddalen was no doubt more physically attractive than
his little mouse Akemi.
During the intermission the theatre was illuminated and many members of the
audience strolled about or chatted. Theodor placed his hands on his cousin’s shoulders.
She jumped out of her seat, “Theodor! I was going to wait for you and Maddalen
- 185 -
outside. You found me first!” Alina was cheery as usual when she was not gripped by
anxiety.
“Alina have you overcome your fear of Asian men? We can see if you have made
progress. I would like to show one to you. He is a fine looking specimen,” He pointed
towards the balcony above her.
The young woman stood up to get a better view of the Jaeger’s exotic guest. She
sucked in her breath, “The-Theodor, my god, it’s him.” Her hands shook slightly and the
blood escaped from her charming features.
“Alina? Are you all right? Whatever are you talking about?” Jaeger put his arm
around her shoulders gently and eased her back down into the seat.
“The man at the Deer Cry Pavilion in Tokyo.” She pressed her hand to the middle
of her chest, “He did this to me.” When Alina saw her cousin lift an eyebrow she begged
him to listen, “You have to believe me Theodor. He’s dangerous.”
Jaeger shook his head, “Remember my dear you saw a Chinaman in London and
threw a fit. Stop your nonsense. Calm down. The second act is about to begin. I hope it
is much better than the first.”
Throughout the rest of the show, Alina kept both her hands over her lace-covered
chest.
Dr. Odeon leaned against the wall of the carriage. Mozart’s opera about sexual
adventures was not worth his time. It is just like westerners to mate with anyone they find
disparaged Odeon how could they find this entertaining? Robert needed to get home
quickly to take Beyer’s miraculous sleep inducing medicine. At this rate he would
acquire some rest near dawn. Maddalen was still in the opera house meeting Alina.
Theodor climbed into the carriage, “Women! They always have the energy to chatter. I
reminded my little fox that we must take you home doctor.”
“I had a pleasant evening Theodor. The opera was wonderful. Have you been
informed that your father asked me to conduct a physical exam for you?”
“Ofcourse, father is so concerned about Maddalen and I. We are both very
healthy. The issue is that we are so happy as it is. We want to enjoy each other first,”
Theodor smiled mischievously, “however there have been a few complications.”
- 186 -
“Complications? Please explain, your privacy will be well guarded.”
Theodor held up his hand, “In good time doctor. A couple of weeks from now,
Maddalen and I will be visiting our country estate to enjoy the weather. Do you hunt
doctor?”
Robert had his hand over his pocket watch, “With a gun?”
“Ofcourse, how else would you hunt?” Theodor laughed, “Do you Japanese still
use bow and arrow? I do occasionally for some variety.”
“I have never hunted for game with a rifle. It must be very efficient, and certainly
different from my past experiences.”
The German drawled, “You must relate your adventures to us doctor Odeon.”
Robert flipped his pocket watch open and close, “We should set aside the time for
that Theodor.”
Mrs. Jaeger slipped her arm around Alina’s waist as they walked to the coatroom.
Maddalen gave a large bill to the attendant, “Be sure that no one disturbs us.”
The opera house employee shook his head, “I’m afraid I cannot accommodate you
madam, all the attendees are leaving and they need their coats and hats.”
Maddalen tugged on his collar, “Do you know who I am? If I so desire, I can
have my husband buy this opera house just so I can have the pleasure of personally firing
you—you insect. Tell everyone else to wait.”
She pulled the Alina inside the room and placed her in front of a large mirror.
Maddalen held her husband’s cousin tightly from behind and kissed the girl’s neck, “Now
what has frightened you tonight? Theodor says you are terrified of our rare trophy.
Robert does have a striking appearance but he is really very harmless.”
Alina tried to turn her head, which allowed Maddalen to seize the chance and
nibble on the girl’s lower lip. Alina pushed the older woman away, “Please stop I will be
marrying my fiancée in London within a few days. I feel guilty about my past with
you…”
“Guilty? You are still a virgin even after all our play together three years ago.”
Maddalen hefted the doll’s small round breasts in her paws, “How soon you forget that it
- 187 -
was I who distracted you from your injury. You would be in an asylum if it were not for
my ministrations. Now tell me what is burdening your fragile little mind?”
“Your guest was at the Deer Cry Pavilion. He was the one who attacked me. I am
certain!”
Maddalen put her hand on her hips, “That is an outrageous accusation.”
Alina became shrill, “Fine, you do not have to believe me. As soon as I am in
London I will go straight to Scotland Yard.” Her eyes were wet with tears, “I know I
have been unwell at times…”
“Hysterical, Alina, simply out of your mind.” Mrs. Jaeger placed her face next to
Alina’s and pronounced each word clearly and slowly.
“But I do remember him. I actually wanted to dance with the young he was with
that night,” Alina looked into the mirror and placed her hand over the scar on her chest.
Maddalen tried to appeal to the girl’s common sense, “I do not think they have
any jurisdiction over a crime committed in Japan.”
“I will try anyways!”
Odeon looked at Mr. Jaeger and saw a phenomenon, eye-shine, which only occurs
in certain animals like wolves and predatory felines in the darkness. Robert stopped
breathing, his eyes are like fire opals. Jaeger moved his head slightly as he saw Maddalen
approach the carriage. The blue green light from his eyes dissipated instantly. The
doctor spent the entire trip home pondering the impossibility of that moment when
Jaeger’s eyes were illuminated.
~~~~~~~~~
1886 LONDON, ENGLAND METROPOLITAN POLICE DEPARTMENT
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION DIVISION, SCOTLAND YARD
Anton stuffed a biscuit into his mouth, allowing the crumbs to fall on his lap as he
read the cablegram sarcastically, “Wonderful so I know he is in Germany. Very helpful.”
- 188 -
He was not even done chewing the first biscuit when he inhaled the second, “Perhaps it is
because these Nipponese live on such small islands that they do not realize how big
Germany really is.”
“Ruining your apetite again I see?” Theresia kissed him, “Clean up dear,
someone is coming.”
The Met’s special agent quickly straightened up his desk and hid the tin of
biscuits. His superior arrived at his door with a beautiful young woman, “Marquis, Ms.
Alina Jaeger gave me an account of what happened to her in Japan years ago. It matches
with the case you are now managing.”
Anton barely had a chance to invite her inside when she blurted out all the details
he needed to know. She tearfully begged him, “You must protect my cousin, Theodor
and his wife Maddalen! They do not believe a word of my story. I told them that their
Japanese friend is HIM.”
The young woman seemed to lost control of her emotions and the Chief escorted
her out of the office, “Marquis, you can leave for Germany in a few days.”
Marquis quickly looked up the address of the Beyer Company in Germany in the
directory the Met kept of all major institutions on the continent.
Anton gathered up his files and put on his hat, “Theresia care to go shopping with
me for some clothes and supplies?”
“Knowing your taste in fashion I must go with your for your own good,” she took
his arm and the loving couple left the police department together.
~~~~~~~~~
1886 GERMANY
BEYER COMPANY LABORATORY & OFFICE
Dr. Robert Odeon started a new file for Mr. Theodor Jaeger. He filled out the
general form quickly as anxiety began to grow in the back of his mind what if I cannot
determine the cause for his inability to impregnate Maddalen? The Japanese doctor
turned around when he heard Jaeger stripping, “Theodor that will be…” he stopped
breathing when he saw the German’s body, “unnecessary right now.” Suzue adjusted the
- 189 -
small mirror at his table so he can watch Theodor as he tried to finish the file. The doctor
tried to calm himself but his urges were overwhelming his sense of control. In the mirror,
Robert saw Theodor’s muscular chest and large strong arms. How can Maddalen not be
attracted him? Jaeger sat down on the couch and looked right into the mirror and smiled.
Suzue became angry when he realized that the two other scientists were right, it has been
a long time. Neither Akemi nor Tomoji really satisfied him like David. Suzue was
starving.
“Doctor?” Theodor kept his eyes on the mirror.
Robert smiled, “Sorry I was thinking about how to approach this subject. You see
even after I graduated from Johns Hopkins and spent some time at the University of
Pennsylvania I never really studied---“
Jaeger approached the Japanese man and drawled, “Fertility?” His large green
eyes dilated, “Virility?”
“Yes, it is still a taboo subject in my culture and in much of the world I’m afraid.”
Robert stood up. Theodor was a couple of inches taller and much more well built. The
closer he came, the more Odeon wanted to taste the man.
“I assure you that both Maddalen and I are healthy and active. We are also
confident that you can help us start a family.” Theodor kept moving until the dark haired
man was against his desk.
“Can you explain?”
“If you come to our rural estate, I’ll be more than happy to unveil our proposition.
Our business is better conducted there beyond prying eyes.”
“Theodor, I’m not clear on what you are trying to convey. Perhaps I should
consult with Maddalen’s physician.”
Jaeger smiled again, his eyes were intense, “Our problem is not physical but
rather the issue is of attraction.”
Robert can smell Jaeger’s lust, sense his body heat. Robert was about to reach up
and touch Theodor’s neck when the German pushed his hard body against his own.
Jaeger held the doctor’s collar as his tongue thrust inside those shapely lips and hot
mouth.
- 190 -
Odeon tilted his head to deepen his kiss but Theodor held his lower lip with his
teeth and growled, “Do not move.” Robert’s heart was racing, how dare he order me?
The doctor’s hands wandered up the wide chest as the other held the back of Jaeger’s
neck. Robert moved tilted his head slightly to continue the moment but Jaeger kept his
teeth clamped on his lips. Odeon barely made out the words, “Do not touch me. Put
your hands behind you on the table.” Odeon was surprised that his body was following
someone else’s command.
“Good,” Jaeger began his assault again, this time slowly, scorching Robert’s
mouth and throat as he moved downward. When Jaeger roughly massaged his awakening
manhood, Odeon closed his eyes and moaned, he was conquered by lust. He is more
powerful than Akemi.
Theodor guided Robert to the low couch.
What does he think he’s doing? He grabbed the German’s wrist, trying to force
him to let go of his jacket and shirt. Jaeger was stronger and pushed him down onto the
couch. Why am I allowing this? Odeon tried to focus but his eyes closed when his patient
began to suck his neck and whispered, “You’ll have to wait a bit longer Robert. Wait.”
Odeon looked up at Jaeger and moved his face up, begging for another kiss. Theodor
taunted his trophy by refusing and slowly moved down the prone man’s torso and placed
his chin just above Odeon’s cock which was straining againts the fabric of his pants.
“As much as I want to fuck you right now, I must ask that you to wait.”
Robert struggled to get up and reverse the role, “We’ll see who will be fucking
whom,” but Theodor laughed and used his weight to keep the man under him, “I’m just
playing doctor.” Jaeger moved up Robert’s body again like a lion with an antelope
between it’s paws, his erection ground into his prey’s hips, “It was always a bad habit of
mine since childhood to play with my food.”
Odeon tried to wrap his hands around the man’s throat but found himself
massaging the lightly tanned shoulder muscles, “Don’t speak to me that way again--ever.” The friction of their sexes rubbing against one another slowly through the fabric
made the doctor sigh with pleasure.
Jaeger licked Odeon’s ear lobe and whispered, “You will not be the one giving
the orders.”
- 191 -
The Japanese man was still panting, fire and frustration filled his eyes when
Jaeger ran his hands through the black hair, “Good Robert, be a good samurai.” The
German rubbed his callous hand along the side of his samurai’s smooth face.
Jaeger put on his shirt and left the office.
Beyer’s young research scientist rushed to his table and shredded Theodor’s file.
He was angry at himself for surrendering control to everything. Everything.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 LONDON
Marquis was almost ready to leave for Germany. As was his custom he carefully
wrapped a gift, a piece of souvenir papyrus from his days in Egypt and sent it to his target
ahead of time. He had a good cover worked out and a letter from the Chief which he was
to give to the police in that country but he needed one more item before his departure.
The agent put on a pair of dark spectacles, “How do I look Theresia?”
Mrs. Marquis turned up her nose, “Like a blind man, especially if you go about
with a walking stick.”
Anton put on a pair of light blue tinted spectacles instead, “How are these?”
“Now you look just like a fool!”
“Theresia, this is for the job.” He held up a finger as if to scold a child, “Try not
to be so critical otherwise I may leave your bag of toiletries here in London.”
Mrs. Marquis pouted and glared, “You will not do such a thing Anton! If you do
you will have to buy me a new set of cosmetics in Germany.”
Anton chuckled, “As if you still need make up.” Theresia does not need makeup,
she is completely beautiful in the state that she is now but she is deeply attached to the
luxuries of the world.
The clerk at the back of the store heard a male voice and came out to meet the
lone customer. He looked around, “Can I help you sir?”
“I would like to buy this pair of glasses, please.” The Met agent began to count
out the bills.
Theresia hissed in his ear, “If you buy them I will not speak to you Anton!”
- 192 -
“We’ll see how long that will last dear.”
The clerk wrote out a receipt, “Sir? Did you need anything else?”
“Thank you.” Marquis now had to visit his favorite bakery to pick up a tin of
buttery biscuits.
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 GERMANY
There was incessant chatter at the lab about the visitor from London Hospital.
They say he will represent the financial branch of the prestigious institution and
determine if a partnership with the Beyer Company was viable. The President of Beyer
and Mr. Jaeger put all their faith in Dr. Odeon to receive Mr. Marquis. The elder Jaeger
whispered to him, “Robert, as important as this is to our company I hope that you do find
the time to work on…the other project,” He gave a large flat envelope from Mr. Anton
Marquis to the Japanese doctor, “my family.”
“I have not forgotten at all. The matter is very sensitive so I will try to gain their
trust when I accompany them to their rural estate in a few days.” Odeon reassured the
worried man.
“Dr. Odeon have you submitted your resume to the Japanese officials yet? It is
important that you do so.”
Robert looked at the floor, “I have not had the time yet Mr. Jaeger. The truth is I
stay aloof from my own countrymen because I failed in one of my aspirations in Japan. It
was a personal tragedy,” he looked away, “Anything from my homeland brings back
painful memories.” Odeon assumed a sad, convincing countenance.
Jaeger placed his hand on Odeon’s shoulder, “Don’t worry Robert, you will
always have a place here with us. You are an Oriental Aryan 85.”
85
The racial superiority of Aryans was already very much a part of mindset of many Germans/Prussians by
the late 1880s and 1890s. Interestingly, Japan was either compared to Great Britain or Prussia specifically
as “Prussians of the East”. The term was “Prussians of the East”. The parallel emerged due to the similar
degrees of industriousness of the Japanese and Prussians.
- 193 -
The researcher returned home and drew a hot bath, scalding for most people, but
just right for him. He walked around the carpeted living room in his cotton robe
restlessly trying to plan the next few days when the cycle of tests would come to an end,
this person from London will arrive and then he had to depart with the Jaegers. Suzue
picked up the small silver box on his desk and rubbed his thumb over the mouse on the
lid. He flipped open the elegant case. The interior of the small case was lined with velvet
and protected the slide of Akemi’s liver. He held the small piece of glass up to the lamp.
It was still in pristine condition, a real achievement of medical craftsmanship performed
in a less than ideal situation. He opened the desk drawer and tossed the case inside.
Ono pulled out a worn notebook full of Kawano Tomoji’s inaccurate drawings
and notes. Like any good teacher, Suzue had carefully went through the entire book to
circle and correct all the mistakes. He turned to his favorite page. Tomoji had lovingly
sketched his elegant sensei standing in front of a chalkboard. My rabbit should have been
an artist he mused. Aside from some clothes and money, these two items were all that
Suzue brought with him from Japan three years ago. With a sharp pair of scissors he
slowly opened Mr. Marquis’ letter and found a present, beautiful but cheap. It was
perfect to place in the bathroom. When the steam eventually entered the frame and ruined
it he could dispose of the gift without regret. The little bright colors on the Egyptian
papyrus danced in the dim light in the room. It seemed to tell a story of some sort.
Suzue poured peppermint oil and Dead Sea salt into the water. He eased himself
into the very large and deep bathtub. It was like a large bed or coffin. He spent a small
fortune on the tub, but it was certainly more safe to use this method for the weeks when
he was especially busy and could not risk going to work late from over sleeping or
without sleeping at all. Although he trusted President Beyer’s concoction completely he
was wary of its addictive effects. The intensely hot liquid relaxed his muscles and cleared
his thoughts. I feel like the female infant in the jar. Peaceful. My body temperature is
rising. Yes.
After several moments underwater, Ono slowly emerged, allowing just his eyes to
look over the top of the water, through the steam and at the papyrus, which he had framed
and hung on the wall. A handsome golden skinned Pharaoh stood on a raft holding a
spear. The weapon was pointed down towards the head of a large crocodile. Above the
- 194 -
scene was a large sun extending its purifying golden rays with small hands and fingers.
The sun was so high above the hunt scene and so beautiful, just like David. Suzue
winced. He could not even remember David’s face. While his nearly infallible memory
could easily recall most events in his life, it was if Engelon had never existed. What
robbed him of the ability to remember that love? How foolish for the king to not realize
that the animal can overturn the flimsy boat. Perhaps he cannot see through the water?
Even with the spear so close to the head of the beast, it was clear the reptile had the
advantage. Suzue combed his hair with his fingers and tasted the water before slipping
beneath the surface again. So much work to do and now I have to deal with Theodor and
his consort Maddalen. He will regret taunting me.
~~~~~~~~~
1886 GERMANY
BEYER COMPANY LABORATORY & OFFICE
Anton Marquis was given a very detailed and dull tour of the Bayer laboratories,
by Griess, during the first day of his visit. The scientists themselves seemed to be like
farm animals hidden in stalls and subject to internal competitiveness and pressure from
the administration. He ground his teeth. This is a waste of time.
“Here is the Jap doctor’s quarters,” Griess opened the door for Mr. Marquis, “You
see his office says ‘Odeon’ but he is just an Oriental pretending to be one of us.”
A scientist at the door beckoned to his friend, “I’ve figured out what killed our
rodents.”
“Fischer do you think it proves our suspicions?” Griess raised an eyebrow.
Fischer smiled, “Absolutely.”
Griess turned to Marquis who sat beside a young patient, “Would you mind if I
left you here momentarily?”
“Not at all, I would enjoy meeting with Beyer’s patients,” Anton took off his blue
glasses and smiled at the young boy in bed.
- 195 -
The sick people in the room were all pleasant and happy. Marquis waved to
them, “I hope that the possible partnership between Beyer and the Royal London Hospital
will alleviate your suffering.”
All the patients beamed and nodded at Anton’s simple but understandable
German.
The boy with golden hair placed his hand on the investigator’s wrist, “Sir, he
means well but he is incapable of…” the boy’s eyes became large as he gazed at Anton.
“Who is incapable?”
The youth’s blue eyes were brilliant crystals, “Of being good. He tries. I know
it.”
Two of the wall clocks, which hung at the opposite walls of the room, chimed and
all the patients placed their left arm over their stomachs and closed their eyes at the same
time. Anton stood up and looked around. The sudden silence was suffocating. All the
patients, male, seemed relaxed in their slumber. The boy spoke again, “Ask me now
while I’m still here.”
Marquis fixated on the synchronized ticking of the wooden clocks. Both
timekeepers were made of a deep brown wood highlighted by a brass ring around the
large faces.
“Sir?”
Anton looked at the thin boy and back at the two rows of beds against each wall.
“Sir, ask me anything I’ll try to help you. Hurry, I don’t have long.”
“Where are you people from?” He waved at the people in bed, “What does he
give you?”
“We are from all over Europe. The company goes to hospitals to find us. My
parents could not pay the medical bill so I was sent here. Dr. Odeon gives us something
to reduce the pain.” The boy seemed drowsy, “He only wants to help.”
Marquis shook him, “Wait, don’t go to sleep yet, what’s your name? Tell me
what Odeon and the company gives to you?”
The youth was breathing gently, “My name is David. I don’t know what they
give us in needles. It has no name. We all have it in our veins. Deal with the clocks first
Mr. Marquis. Clocks.”
- 196 -
Anton closed his eyes and heard the two time keepers. This must be how he does
it. The letters does mention a pocket watch given by… “David, David you have to tell me
more!” The investigator touched the youth’s shoulder but it was clear he was
unconscious. He stood on a low stool and adjusted one clock’s arms and made sure the
pendulum kept swinging left and right. I hope this works. The pattern must be broken.
As he opened the door to leave the two scientists Fischer and Griess met him at the door.
“You have your patients trained! They were all so friendly before going to
sleep,” Anton grinned going into a sleep too deep to be normal.
“Odeon cares for them. There are advantages in working with humans I suppose.
Griess and I work with rodents.” Fischer folded his arms, “The Jap would get more
money if he did not fail in his earlier research.”
Marquis touched the man’s arm, “The Royal London Hospital is not without its
own failures either. It probably is the source of our policy that we do not accept patients
we cannot cure. I assure you that relating Beyer’s problems to me will not affect our
possible partnership negatively. All of us are here to help people.”
Griess sneered, “The company culled a flock of his patients. The oriental believes
that bacteria killed his group. He blames everyone but himself. Why the Jap even said it
was all due to the lack of cleanliness and these small creatures which infect everything.”
“I see,” Anton pretended to understand, “Have you men experienced any
difficulties here? Perhaps if you are interested, I can propose to my superiors to invite
such esteemed researchers like yourself to work in London at a much, much higher pay of
course.”
The offer of wealth enticed the two Germans and loosened their tongues, “As long
as our work is beyond the reach of Odeon we’ll be content.”
Marquis asked to discuss the matter further in the company’s record room, “I
would never trust an Oriental to work at the Royal Hospital. Progress must be nurtured
in the West, not the East. These Orientals will only steal our work for their own
country.” He leaned in close to the two Germans, “So tell me what has he done?”
Anton was not particularly interested in their paranoid theory that Odeon would
poison their lab animals with strychnine, “All the scientists here can be suspects am I
correct? Anyone can access strychnine.”
- 197 -
“You see, today, I found the battered skeleton of one of our missing mice in the
hay! Someone threw her in their to be eaten.” Griess clenched his fists, “It ruined our
work.”
Fischer raised his voice, “But none would be so blatant about revenge and know
they can get away with it. Odeon is favored by Jaeger and Mr. Beyer the President.
Were it not for the other scientists and shareholders who asked that the Jap prove himself
first, Odeon would become a senior researcher by now.”
The investigator pretended to side with the men, “You have to be careful
gentlemen, we don’t want this Odeon to lead in all the progress. In fact I spoke to a
young blonde boy, David, who said that the doctor is really very skillful. We have to
sure that the Beyer Company or another German scientist takes the credit.”
Griess glanced at an equally confused Fischer, “Odeon does not currently have a
patient named David.”
“You may have met Jonathan. He’s a quiet lad with brown hair.” Fischer
affirmed.
Scotland Yard’s agent put his tinted glasses back on, “I must have misheard his
name perhaps. I can only hear from one ear. Well gentleman, I have an appointment
with the younger Mr. Jaeger, his wife Maddalen and Dr. Odeon this evening. Do either
of you happen to know his Japanese name? I find it comical he has a western name.”
“As do we Mr. Marquis. He never uses his Japanese name. In fact there is no
paperwork in Beyer with his real name on it. I do recall it starts with an ‘O’.”
Yes, confirmation! Marquis grinned. I’ll meet Ono for dinner. No point in
confronting him here when I need some more solid evidence. He thanked Griess and
Fischer and left the company one hour before Odeon arrived. I’ll come back later tonight
and break whatever spell Suzue has cast over these poor people. I cannot do anything
with so many people about.
~~~~~~~~~
Dr. Robert Odeon came to work late but still right on time to greet his subjects.
The handsome Japanese man was completely renewed by a full night’s rest.
Odeon opened the door of the large room holding his patients and noticed that the
patients to his left were already awake. Odd. He walked down the middle of the room
- 198 -
back and forth and watched their demeanor, soon the sick sleeping on his right began to
stir. Someone adjusted one of my clocks. One clock is progressing five minutes ahead of
time. Robert shook the boy still sleeping on his side, “Jonathan?” Subject 731’s86
body…is cold. He must have expired at least two hours ago. Odeon pushed the corpse
onto its back and drew the covers up over the brown haired boy. Robert adjusted the
clock to match his own pocket watch and asked his charges to rest again. How dare
someone ruin my schedule!
The researcher commanded his staff to come inside.
“Who adjusted the clock?” He pointed to the wall.
The nurses and attendants looked on the floor.
A frail worker whimpered, “No one sir, we all fulfilled our basic duties and left
before the designated rest period for the patients. I did see Griess take Mr. Marquis
around the building. He left Mr. Marquis in here briefly.”
“You should have prevented that bastard Griess from coming into this room. All
of you should be protecting my experiment!” Robert controlled his rage, “Subject 731
has been dead for some time and no one took note. He was a corpse before this Mr.
Marquis entered the room.”
An elderly nurse shook her head, “But Dr. Odeon you told us not to enter the
room until you have visited with the bedridden subjects after their rest. We follow your
orders exactly but you don’t let us administer care without your supervision.”
“This is not a hospital.” Robert closed his eyes and clenched his jaw, “You do not
‘care’ for them. You maintain them by feeding them and cleaning them. I need to keep
these people alive for a reason. However, you do have to note when someone dies!”
The male attendant was surprised that his superior was yelling and all the patients
were still asleep, “Sir, has their scheduled been altered today? Everyone is still asleep.”
“Don’t ask me questions! I’ll determine when they eat, sleep and awaken. Get
out! All of you get out!” Odeon shouted as the workers fled the room. His shaking hand
86
The number 731 is based on UNIT 731 probably one of the most researched and notorious war atrocity where live
humans were used as test subjects by Japan’s Imperial Army during the Second World War. Unit 731 was based in
Manchuria and other similar labs in China. The labs represent another example of inhumane “science” practiced
outside of the projects initiated by Nazi Germany. Researchers have also concluded that much of UNIT 731’s data
rarely resulted in anything useful to humankind (however frostbite and gunshot wound surgery data was later used
pragmatically).
- 199 -
clutched his dull pocket watch. Robert brought out a handkerchief and rubbed the
timekeeper Engelon had given to him so many years ago. I hardly had to polish it before.
Robert grew frustrated as he tried to recover the watch’s usual shine.
~~~~~~~~~
Ono waited for Mr. Marquis to emerge. He paced along the luxury hotel’s
counter and decided to ask the clerk, “I am here to escort Mr. Anton Marquis to dinner.
Is he upstairs in his room?” The hotel worker looked in his logbook and traced his finger
down the list of names. Suzue noticed the lone name “Mr. Marquis” listed on the paper.
The manager came to assist the clerk, “Ah, yes Mr. and Mrs. Marquis are in.”
Suzue was impatient, “Mr. and Mrs? I was informed that there was only Mr.
Marquis. The dinner arrangements have been prepared with only one guest in mind.”
The hotel employee looked as his superior, “Mr. Marquis is alone.”
His manager shook his head, “There are women’s toiletries in his room.”
Suzue turned to see a well-dressed older man wearing blue tinted glasses descend
the stairs carrying a top hat. I have seen his face before, “Mr. Marquis? I am Dr.
Odeon,” he extended his hand, “Will your spouse be accompanying us tonight?”
Marquis squeezed Odeon’s hand tightly, “Pleased to meet you.” Anton placed his
hat on as they left the lobby, “I never go anywhere alone usually. However, she is very
shy and does not wish to appear tonight.”
“I see.” Robert smiled pleasantly and tried to look into Mr. Marquis’ obscured
eyes.
~~~~~~~~~
Suzue was anxious. What are they going to feed me tonight? When the waiter
removed the silver cover, he breathed a sigh of relief to a roasted meat of some sort,
“Theodor what have you ordered for us tonight?”
“Rabbit my dear doctor.”
“Oh.” The last time I had Lagomorpha was three years ago.
Maddalen placed her napkin on her lap and stabbed at the pink meat on the plate.
Everyone looked at Anton who was almost done inhaling his food.
- 200 -
“Mr. Marquis I do cherish the Egyptian art you sent me, I read a bit about the
Crocodile headed god Sobek 87. I recall he guards the sciences, gives life and is very
feared. Sobek seems to encompass many principals.” The doctor waited for an answer,
“Sobek is the embodiment of transformation.”
“Yes, Sobek has good and bad qualities including the base reptilian conscience
and should always be suppressed,” Marquis wondered why Odeon was so interested,
“Although Sobek is a large water reptile, I suppose the ancient Egyptians still connect
him to snakes and with the ability to shed its skin and change.” Anton kept speaking with
his mouth full, “personally, I think he is more evil than good doctor.”
“Speaking of animals,” Theodor pushed a morsal around with his fork, coating it
with a brown sauce, “Mr. Marquis so have you seen the Elephant Man?”
If the Jaegers and the doctor could see Anton’s eyes behind the blue glass they
would see the slight panic.
“Ah yes I have met the sideshow freak.” Marquis sipped the beer he ordered in
place of the wine he should have had with the sumptuous meal. Anton wiped his mouth
with the back of his hand out of reflex.
“Patients are people and thus endowed with feeling. You should not call them
‘freaks’ even if it is the truth. I am very sensitive and caring to all under my charges.”
Ono adjusted his glasses, “My occupation is a mission of mercy. How is he doing as a
patient in your hospital?”
Anton picked at the vegetables with his fork, “Very well.”
The Japanese man smiled. Who are you Mr. Marquis? “Forgive me, I have a
poor memory. I do not even think Mr. Merrick is even a patient at the London Hospital
yet. I did read a report by the London Pathological Society last year about him.”
Maddalen gnawed on a bone, “I would think that such an important official such
as yourself , Mr. Marquis, would have known if this human, if you can call him that,
became a patient at the Royal London Hospital.”
Damn. Was I supposed to become an anatomist before assuming this cover?
Marquis covered his mouth before burping, “Well I am from the financial division so I
87
Thanks to Nefret Nubti for giving a complex definition of the god Sobek. The discussion here between Marquis and
Suzue is very basic and hardly comprehensive.
- 201 -
may not be fully as informed as I should be about the world of science. The truth is, it is
my sincere hope that we do admit him as a patient to the hospital---out of a sense of
charity.”
Mrs. Jaeger tilted her head, “But elephants are such noble and beautiful animals
why do humans call this disfigured man an animal?”
Anton shrugged, “His head is too large and misshapen.”
She dropped the bone on her plate and shook her head, “You humans are too cruel
to one another.”
Odeon found that just the smell of the undercooked rabbit was not to his liking.
His sense of smell was always very keen. I also smell deceit. He glanced up at the
bearded Englishman, “So Mr. Marquis tell me about your glasses. They are beautiful.
Why do you wear them indoors?”
Marquis looked around the table and Theodor could guess that the man was still
hungry and called a waiter to bring a dessert tray. Anton pointed at two slices of cake
and started to eat as he replied, “Well doctor, I wear them for the same purpose you wear
your spectacles.”
Suzue took of his glasses and carefully put them into his coat pocket, “May I see
them please?”
Anton handed them over and revealed his hawkish eyes.
The doctor tried on the dark glasses. I can still see everything around me.
However, no one can see my eyes though. Interesting.
Ono returned them to his guest. Marquis placed them back on his face
immediately, “Mr. and Mrs. Jaeger, I cannot thank you enough for this exquisite meal.
So allow me to entertain you with a story from my youth when I dealt with a reptilian
hypnotist when I was in Egypt years ago.”
Maddalen placed her chin on her hands, “Oh! Tell us! This sounds fascinating.”
“I was sleeping in a tent with the other sailors while we were on an excursion to
see the pyramids. In the early evening I felt something near my foot.”
“A cobra!” Maddalen leaned on the table, “Am I right?” her eyes dilated from
excitement.
- 202 -
“Shush, Maddalen and let Mr. Marquis finish his story,” Theodor sniffed his
wife’s neck.
Anton grinned, “It was a cobra indeed.” The undercover agent glanced at his
pocket watch quickly, “I hope it is not getting too late.”
The Japanese doctor laughed, “Maybe your pocket watch is too early Mr.
Marquis. Just like one of the clocks in my patients’ room?” He tried to look into
Anton’s eyes through the blue glass.
Scotland Yard’s best agent just smiled back at the physician. Perhaps I was too
aggressive in provoking him. I’ll have to determine a way to break his hold on those poor
puppets tonight if I can find a to sneak back into the lab. “Yes Dr. Odeon, five minutes
too early perhaps. Just like your clock.”
Suzue stood up, “I forgot to make arrangements for transportation back to the lab.
Mr. Beyer is preparing my prescription. Please continue your story Mr. Marquis. I’ll go
outside now and inform my driver to take you to your hotel Mr. Marquis. To repay Mr.
and Mrs. Jaeger’s kindness I will bring in my special gift.” Ono dashed out of the
restaurant.
“Well the large cobra,” Anton placed his elbow on the table and formed his hand
into the shape of a cobra’s hood, “was about to strike. Fortunately I was told by an
Egyptian not to look at its eyes, but to look at where its body meets the ground. That way
I’ll know when it will attack me. You know they say that it’s the eyes of the reptile is
what mesmerizes its prey. Their steady gaze due to the lack of eyelids is unnerving. ”
Theodor raised his eyebrow, “So what happened?”
“I dodged the first strike. Barely. He lodged his fangs into the cloth of my pants
and missed my skin. I was able to bring a machete down on its back.”
The young Mr. Jaeger grabbed his young wife’s arm, “That is certainly a unique
method Mr. Marquis. You see when I catch any snake I pin it down with my paws like
this,” he pressed Maddalen’s long white arm on the table with his hand, “and I bite its
head right off.” Jaeger sucked on his mate’s wrist and hand as she giggled from the
sensation, “Right off.”
Maybe the wine has gone to his head thought Marquis. “It is true that a bodiless
snake’s head can still bite.”
- 203 -
“Oh really?” Theodor looked up playfully.
“Yes, the Egyptian, who helped us, carefully buried the cobra’s head, although he
said burning it was safest.”
Outside of the restaurant, the Japanese doctor placed his hand on the driver’s
knee, “Do you remember where to take Mr. Marquis? We discussed this several times
today already.” Odeon looked at the driver.
“Yes sir, to the end of the road as fast as possible.”
“You have been a fine servant, thank you so very much.”
Ono returned to the table with a beautiful wooden box.
“Robert! You missed the most engaging story about avoiding a snake’s gaze,”
Maddalen made a circle with her fingers and looked through them.
“Well Mr. Marquis there are no snakes around here,” Suzue laughed, “But who
knows maybe you shall see one after trying this absinthe.”
“Oh! Made from Wormwood? I’ve seen the French drink it in northern Africa,”
Marquis adjusted his glasses.
Odeon looked at Anton suspiciously as he carefully brought out the small glass,
“Ladies first, let me prepare a glass for Maddalen.” He carefully set the dripper over the
top of the crystal after filling it part way with the alcohol.
All of the guests fixed their eyes on the water, which rhythmically dropped from
the melting ice into the absinthe.
Maddalen leaned on her husband’s shoulder and covered her mouth as she
yawned. Marquis folded his arms, what is he up to now?
Theodor growled, “This is taking too long. Just pour the cold water into the
absinthe and be done with it.”
The doctor tapped the glass with his nail, “No look how the water affects the
alcohol. The deep green of the absinthe is beautiful like smokey jade.”
Maddalen put her chin on the table lazily, a strange posture for a woman dressed
in all her finery, “Look Theodor, it’s beautiful!”
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“Yes that is part of the delight in drinking absinthe. Patience. Refinement.
Watch the drops of water.” Odeon smiled at the Jaeger couple.
Anton had enough, he really thinks he can influence the Jaegers? Marquis
smirked, grabbed the glass and poured the contents down his throat. He choked slightly,
“Doctor, I’m afraid you’ve been fooled. This is a very low quality absinthe. A very,
very low grade.”
“How so Mr. Marquis? I happen to have enjoyed a variety of alcohol in my youth
and I’m familiar with the very best quality.” Robert did not anticipate Marquis’ rudeness.
Strong stuff. Anton slammed his fist into his chest as he choked.
“You should have asked me if he put any substance in it Anton!” Theresia
whispered in her husband’s ear, “You also need to stay sober if we are to go back to the
lab and help Suzue’s patients!”
“Quiet.” Marquis was annoyed.
Theodor was amused by Anton’s attempt to keep down the alcohol, “Excuse me
Mr. Marquis?”
“Oh, I’m trying to stop myself from coughing,” The Londoner laughed, “Look at
the time! I must return to the hotel.”
As Maddalen entered the carriage she grabbed Robert and gave him a peck on the
cheek. Odeon could not pull away from her grasp fast enough.
“Doctor, please allow my wife to do anything which pleases her,” Theodor patted
the Japanese on the shoulder, “The company has set aside some time for you away from
the lab so you will be able to join us at the chateau in the countryside.”
Odeon shook his head, “I do not think that possible Theodor, the current cycle of
experiments is coming to an end and I must monitor my charges before leaving with
you.”
The Jaegers departed as Theodor managed to haul himself into the doctor’s
carriage. Just one cup of the absinthe and I can barely walk.
“It was a pleasure meeting you this evening Mr. Marquis---“ Odeon smiled to the
British man.
“Likewise doctor. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting with your patients. Seeing your
work made me think of a quote I read, ‘There exists with some individuals’ with a…
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‘power truly prodigious, of which I do not pretend to know the cause but of which I think
it my duty to say a word: first,...to use it without ostentation, without endeavouring to
produce astonishing effects but with simplicity, with prudence, and solely with a view to
do good...88 you embody the discretionary use of that…"
Odeon was trying to shove Anton into the car, “What power do you speak of Mr.
Marquis? I’m amazed by your ability to recall such a long quote.”
“You ought to know of the power I speak of doctor.”
Robert looked up at the driver who promptly spoke, “Yes sir, to the end of the
road as fast as possible.”
As the horses began to trot away from the restaurant, Theresia pressed her hands
and face against the glass to look at the doctor her husband was investigating.
The doctor was pleased that he had fulfilled his job of hosting Mr. Marquis
successfully not for the Beyer company ofcourse, but for sending off the guest in grand
style. I hope Anton enjoyed his last meal. He stepped back when he saw a glowing whisp
of smoke in the window of the carriage. Odeon rubbed his eyes, why am I seeing things
even though I have slept well? “Dr. Beyer is waiting for me to fetch the next
prescription.”
~~~~~~~~~~
“What you are suggesting is that I interrupt my experiment just so your son and
his wife will have a companion at their rural estate.” The founder of the company was
annoyed by the elderly Jaeger, but willing to be diplomatic to the wealthy man.
“I trust the doctor to assist with a health issue involving Theodor and Maddalen.”
Jaeger sighed, “How would having Robert go on leave affect your work Adolf?”
“Odeon is not only supervising a very important test in his department, he is part
of my own project. He is coming to get his dosage soon tonight. However, I just realized
a solution to this matter so don’t worry Jaeger. You may allwo your Theodor and his
wife drag the Oriental wherever they wish.”
88
Deleuze, J. P. F. (Joseph Philippe Francois), 1753-1835. Translated by Thomas C. Hartshorn. Practical
instruction in animal magnetism. Rev. ed. With an appendix of notes by the translator, and letters from
eminent physicians, and other, descriptive of cases in the United States. New York, Fowler and Wells Co.;
London, L.N. Fowler & Co. [1879]
- 206 -
Jaeger grasped his old friend’s hand, “Thank you. My boy believes the doctor can
help him and Maddalen.”
“How so Jaeger?” The accomplished chemist was curious.
“It is a personal matter Adolf.”
~~~~~~~~~~
“Anton! Anton!” Try as she might, Theresia could not rouse her man, “You have
to wake up now.” Lout! You know better than to drink.
She looked at the scenery rushing by and realized they had passed the hotel long
ago. Where is the driver taking us? The sound of the rapid hoofbeats was incredibly
loud. Theresia tried to embrace Anton but she had no energy to pull him out of the
stupor.
Theresia Marquis entered the dream mind of her husband. He was young again
and devastated by her death after he returned from Egypt. Anton looked down at a black
river from a low bridge trying to discern his reflection. She shook his arm, “You’d better
wake up now! We’re in trouble! Anton please.”
“Theresia!” He hugged her tightly, “I have not seen you for a long time. Your
voice is not enough for me. Your simple presence tortures me with denial.” Anton
started to cry in her neck, “You are my Isis who heals me in dreams.”
“Not now, this isn’t the time you have to wake up don’t stay here like this in your
mind. The carriage has past the hotel and the driver is taking us God know where---“
It was the sound of the screaming, large steed as its hooves flailed in the air which
woke up Anton. The car hurtled towards the rocks and dirt below a cliff.
~~~~~~~~~~
“My apologies for being late Dr. Beyer, I just sent off Mr. Marquis.” Odeon
eagerly looked at the package on the chemist’s desk.
“Good to hear that Dr. Odeon. Here is your last prescription. If the younger
Jaeger has not already informed you, I want you to know that I’ll take over your
experiment and your patients.” Beyer scratched the sparse silver hair above his ear.
“Absolutely not!” Odeon stepped back, “It has been my project all along. If my
patients survive then you will all have to admit that you have been mistaken in denying
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the existence of bacteria and that the medicine does work if the delivery method is
absolutely clean.”
The old man shook his head, “Odeon, do not forget your place in the company.
Ofcourse it is also in my best interest for your subjects to live as well. If you deny my
right to assume control of your patients then you are questioning my capabilities as a
scientist.”
“No, I have to see it through the end,” Robert was anger flashed in his dark eyes,
“This is my experiment. I designed all the factors and timeline and you are just a chemist
not a doctor! I just need a few more days.”
“You are an employee of my company,” He placed his palm on his chest, “All
experiments are the property of Beyer.”
The Japanese man shook his head and pointed at his superior, “If they die, it is
your fault. They are all in good condition now.”
“Except for the one boy, Jonathan, who expired.”
“No! He was already ill, there must be a reason. I will do an autopsy tomorrow!”
Beyer was firm, “You will spend the next morning preparing to travel with the
young Jaeger couple. Go and relax. You will not conduct an autopsy. It’s an order.”
Odeon glared back with rage, “I’ve done so much for the company. My proposal
for Beyer to produce and sell red dye in Japan will also give you handsome profits. I
have devoted myself to this lab and the betterment of medicine. You are denying me the
opportunity of attaining success.”
“And for that we will patent the red dye in your name doctor.”
“No need to do that! My name is never to be mentioned in Japan.”
The owner of the powerful company scratched his chin, be obedient my doctor.
Odeon grabbed the precious medicine and left the office.
Dr. Beyer yelled, “Enjoy your rest with the Jaegers. I’ll take care of the human
property in your lab.”
- 208 -
- 209 -
~~~~~~~~~~
Fortunately a policeman had noticed the tracks which led off the cobblestone road
into the dirt. He looked down and saw a smashed carriage. The driver’s head had burst
on a large rock like a large pumpkin. The horse violently thrashed about before it was
put down. More officers climbed down the cliff to help the man who was screaming in
pain.
When they took him to a nearby hospital, the Englishman, amazingly still
conscious managed to explain, “I am from Scotland Yard. Get me a mirror, leave me for
five minutes come back and…” He pointed to his crushed left arm, “cut it off.” Marquis
groaned.
The German doctor shook his head, “You will bleed to death, I must work on it
now.”
Anton clenched his teeth, “No, you have no anesthesia, give me a mirror. Do as I
say. Bring me your chief of police. Send the police to Beyer labs to help the people
there.”
After they brought in a shaving mirror and left the room, Anton tried to focus on
the mirror through the tears of pain which pooled in his eyes, “I need you to help.” He
gulped in some air.
In the small mirror, Theresia’s face appeared, “I’m here Anton don’t worry. I’ll
help you sleep.”
The physician cleaned the small handsaw and entered the room in less than five
minutes. The injured man seemed to be asleep. He must have fainted from lost of blood!
The doctor checked the British man’s eyes. They were not rolled back as they should be.
Yet he seems unconscious. The doctor knew he had no time to waste and quickly cut off
the man’s jacket and began working on the mangled limb.
~~~~~~~~~~
“I am completely surprised by your reaction doctor!” Maddalen placed a hand on
her hip, “I went to great lengths to acquire this native costume for you.”
The Japanese doctor ran his hand through his coal black hair and looked at the
contents of the box. The black kimono was designed for a man. The obi was proper as
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well but the pattern of red flower petals was clearly for a woman to wear. “I will not
degrade myself to wear that Mrs. Jaeger. The pattern does not suit a me.”
Theodor sniffed his drink, “Robert please humor us.”
Maddalen began to unbutton Odeon’s vest. Robert pushed aside her hand and
looked at Theodor, hoping to find the explanation as to why Jaeger would allow his wife
to behave like this.
Jaeger only smiled, “Doctor, Maddalen and I are people of,” He ran a finger
underneath his teeth, “unique taste. We were simply curious to see how you look in
Japanese attire. A harmless request won’t you agree?”
The physician snatched the kimono from the box and walked out of the room.
Maddalen hollered, “Please come back soon doctor!”
Suzue walked to his bedroom and passed the many trophys in the hallway. Deer
horns, bears, and other game stood menacing for all eternity. Before he entered his room
he noticed one empty stand. I’ll humor them all right. Suzue’s mood softened when the
familiar textiles hugged his skin. The bearskin beneath his bare feet soothed Ono’s
nerves. He opened his suitcase. Unlocked. My work? Notebooks, and Dr. Beyer’s
medicine are gone! Ono went through the drawers in the room hoping that the servants
dared to move his belongings. Nothing. He inhaled quickly nearly gasping for air from
the panic. The Japanese tried to open the windows and noticed that the metal latches
were melted shut. Ono’s medical accoutrements, which could double as weapons, have
been stripped from him. All he had were his wits and uneasy intuition. Suzue adjusted
the obi around his waist as he looked in the mirror. I look strangely elegant. The Jaegers
must have keen eyes to have the ability to estimate my dimensions so well. He returned to
the waiting husband and wife.
~~~~~~~~~~
“What day is it? I need the police.” Anton blinked and tried to focus on the
figures looming above him, “Police must go to the Beyer Company. There are people at
the lab who need help.”
The doctor’s eyes wandered to the absent limb. Anton moved his left arm as if to
drape it across his stomache. He moaned with sorrow. His arm from the elbow down
removed. Marquis growled, “Beyer Company. Someone must go there now! Look in my
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jacket to see the letter from Scotland Yard, I’m an officer on a case.” Anton was
repulsed by his new physical state and the concentration required to communicate in
German was almost too much of a burden for his mind to process, “Oh god that bastard is
still lose!” The Met’s veteran investigator tried to get up but an officer pushed him back
down, “I read your letter. Sir you have been unconscious for nearly three days. I
understand your mission. We will help you but first you must understand the status of
the Beyer Company.”
“Status? Do you know about the people in the company?”
The senior police officer glanced at the doctor and back at Anton, “Ofcourse, they
are test subjects.”
Marquis was successful this time in leaving the pillow and sitting up, “No, people
they are people.”
His German counterpart shook his head, “They are property of Beyer
Pharmaceuticals.”
~~~~~~~~~~
“So lovely! Look Theodor, Odeon is transformed!” Maddalen pawed her
Japanese prize about his chest, “It is as if the kimono has given him a new skin.”
“Magnificent! You are splendid Ono Suzue.” Theodor smoothed his moustache.
Ono stared at his two hosts, “How do you know my name?”
The Jaeger couple smiled, their eyes became large and the saliva on their teeth
made their fangs shine, “Oh come now, we have access to all company records. We
know who you are and what you did in Japan.”
Theodor raised his brow, “Be at ease doctor and have dinner with us.”
Suzue touched the napkin to the side of his mouth, “Mr and Mrs Jaeger, I request
the return of my medicine.”
“You are so charming to try and strike up deals, even without any leverage,”
Maddalen’s eyes twinkled with amusement, “Theodor and I will take care of you don’t
worry.”
- 212 -
The large napkin obscured Suzue’s left hand which quickly slid the dinner knife
into the front of his obi, “How can I help the both of you?”
The female Jaeger put her hand on her mate’s arm, “To tell you the truth doctor,
we had a baby but she was killed.”
“Mr. Jaeger said that both of you are childless---“
Theodor laughed, “That old Jaeger is referring to his son and daughter-in-law.”
Then who are you people? Ono watched as the candlelight illuminated the
handsome and beautiful couple before him.
~~~~~~~~~~
The elder Jaeger slammed his hand on the table, “Outrageous! My son and
daughter-in-law have been back in Germany for weeks. How dare you come here
claiming that they have gone missing in Africa! I’ve spoken to them several times, took
meals with them. Many people have seen them with me.”
An unkempt man who was clearly made and dressed for the wild plains of Africa
leveled with the Beyer company’s wealthy stock holder, “Sir, we sent out a search party
for them after they decided to separate from our group and went into dangerous territory.
We found the partially eaten bodies of some of their guides but no remains of your son
and daughter in law. We looked and looked---“
“Get out of my office or I’ll have you dragged out!”
The experienced hunter walked out of the large building stunned by how his
goodwill was so rudely dismissed. As he trudged down the steps a group of policeman
ran past him.
“What has upset you Jaeger?” Adolf Beyer looked up from a log book.
Jaeger balled his hand into a fist, “Some ruffian had the nerve to tell me that my
boy and Maddalen never came back from Africa. Wipe that smile off your face!”
Beyer covered his chuckle, “Sorry, I’m in a wonderful mood Jaeger. You see,
I’ve always known that our medicine is effective and that bacteria is what caused other
illnesses to emerge. However, what is inaccurate is the dosage amount. The other night I
sent some agents to go through Odeon’s apartment and his logbook reveals the
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information I needed. I just determined the fatal amount as well by overdosing all the
patients…”
Loud knocks at the door interrupted his triumphant speech.
The large officers dragged Jaeger and Beyer to Odeon’s wing of the laboratory.
Anton Marquis had his back to the two German men as he stood in the empty
room full of neatly made beds, “Where is everyone? This room was full.”
“The experiment was completed recently and the bodies have been disposed of
after the examination of their livers,” Beyer spoke coolly, “Ah so our associate from the
London Hospital is nothing but an officer in disguise.”
Marquis turned around and looked over his dark glasses, “Just say your company
murdered these people.”
Beyer placed his hands behind his back, “Ridiculous. Dr. Odeon is to blame for
their deaths. He handled the entire experiment before leaving.”
The German chief of police commanded, “We must examine the bodies!”
“The bodies have been autopsied and cremated. I believe Odeon gave them all
fatal doses…”
Anton stood on a low stool and swatted at one of the clocks on the wall sending it
crashing to the floor. All the men in the room jumped at the sound and Marquis’ extreme
behavior. He ran to Beyer and grabbed the old scientist’s collar, “Where did he go?”
~~~~~~~~~~
Maddalen pressed her voluptuous body against Suzue. The doctor could not resist
fondling her firm heavy breasts as her husband watched from a chair, “My beloved you
are never so passionate with me.”
Mrs. Jaeger sucked Odeon’s lips as her hands tried to tug open his kimono, “You
know my preference Theo.”
Suzue reached back and adjusted the pillow underneath his head where he hid the
knife earlier. His lungs were burning for air but she would not allow him to pull out of
the kiss.
There was something feral about how the woman was dominating him, pinning
him to the bed. Maddalen growled to Theo, “Well Suzue is not like any man,” She
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looked at the lean body underneath, “Suzue is beautiful but still masculine and not rough
like you Theo.”
Theodor put out his cigar and massaged himself, “He is unique. That is why he
suits us both.”
Suzue helped Maddalen remove the Japanese clothing from his body, “What is
wrong with the two of you?”
“I prefer women,” Mrs. Jaeger loosened her hair and nipped at Suzue’s neck.
Theodor approached the bed, his large body cast a long shadow, “My taste is
inclined towards men. But we both want a family now to help deal with the sorrow of
losing our cub.” Jaeger watched his wife dig her nails into Suzue’s tone chest. Their
captive grimaced from the pain and tilted his head back.
“You arouse both of us with your features Suzue.” Theo put a knee on the large
bed and began unbuttoning his shirt.
~~~~~~~~~~
Anton and two officers kicked down the door to Odeon’s apartment. Inside the
lavish suite were books and items strewn all over the floor. It was ransacked. Marquis
thought about the Griess and Fischer the two paranoid scientists. This must be the
handywork of the company no doubt. Marquis reached for the waste bin and found
himself trying to use both hands. He became sick at every reminder that he was no
longer whole. Odeon had shredded the document from the Embassy requesting his
biography. There were scraps of paper with scribblings about a business venture
concerning red dye as well. Anton entered the bathroom and sniffed the air which was
heavy with salt and other scents he could not identify. There was a picture frame on the
floor. The papyrus he sent to the Japanese was altered. Suzue must have cut out the
image of the hunting pharaoh, only the large water reptile remained.
“I want you to box and seal everything carefully and store the items in my hotel
room. Place a guard there.” Anton looked at his eager assistants, “Remember this is an
important case for Germany too. Now we must bring to justice this Japanese who has
killed all the property of the Beyer company.” Marquis was disgusted to utter such a lie,
but he had no choice. The police were reluctant to investigate the company so to get their
- 215 -
cooperation Anton had to follow the “story” they had cooked up. In any case Ono still
had to be caught.
A third officer rushed into the room, “Sir, Jaeger finally told us where Ono went.
He went to the countryside with the young Jaeger couple. Some of the roads are damaged
from a rock slide but we should get there in two days.”
Anton polished his tinted glasses and wondered if he would still need them by the
time he could confront this killer.
~~~~~~~~~~
Maddalen’s lips curled into a smile as she eased her back on the large bed as the
dark haired man worshipped her breasts. Suzue glanced at her pleasure filled face as he
began to tease her nipples with his lips and teeth. She stroked his muscular shoulders,
“Theodor, see this is how it’s done.” Her husband was slowly peeling the clothes off his
firm body. Jaeger watched the entertwined naked bodies intently as his own desire
reached a peak. Suzue was intoxicated by her scent, I’ll finish them off after I fuck them
both he mused. He positioned himself between her legs when he felt a hand squeeze his
shoulder, “Suzue my precious do you think I want a mongrel child? Don’t even think of
mating with my woman.” Theodor reached under Suzue’s body and massaged the
engorged shaft.
Maddalen stared up into Suzue’s eyes, “I just need you to arouse my partner,
doctor. We are intent on preserving the purity of our species.”
Suzue closed his eyes at the sensation of Theodor’s tongue on his neck and
shoulder. The Japanese man moaned as he felt Jaeger’s bare chest and erect nipples
brush against his back. Theodor’s hands squeezed the firm ass as his fingers searched for
the hot entrance.
“Be gentle Theo!” Maddalen looked at her mate. She caressed Suzue’s now
sweat covered face.
“Say it Suzue,” Jaeger kept grinding his hips and cock against the restrained man.
“Fuck me---,” Suzue clenched his teeth as Jaeger tore into him. Prespiration
dripped onto Maddalen’s flush skin as Jaeger rocked against their beautiful plaything.
Ono’s hands twisted the bedsheets as the intense pain became more pleasurable. He
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leaned his face downward into the woman’s flawless neck. Maddalen massaged his
weeping cock and devoured his lips again muffling his cries. Each thrust was weakening
his resolve. Suzue tried to move his hand closer to the pillow. The sensation of another
man claiming him was clouding his mind. I want more of these two.
Mrs. Jaeger wriggled out from the doctor and watched the scene with fascination,
“Don’t you dare finish inside him Theo.” She laid on her side and played with her loose
tresses.
Her man turned to her and snarled, “You had your time with him already
Maddalen. He’s tight.” Theo shuddered as Suzue’s muscles tightened around the shaft.
“H-Harder,” Suzue gasped as the length plunged into his body, “yes.”
Maddalen enjoyed watching her husband losing control. Theo’s exertions
allowed her to observe his sinews and muscles flex under his skin. She saw something in
Suzue’s eyes. He’s reaching for something.
Theo grabbed Suzue’s wrist as the blade cut through the air and stopped it from
slashing his neck. Maddalen, in an instant, had pulled out a loaded gun from the dresser
and had it pointed at the captive’s forehead. Jaeger twisted the knife out of Suzue’s hand
and threw it across the room. “Your arrogance is drawn from your intelligence. But in
the end, you are nothing!” Theo pushed Suzue down on the bed, “Pathetic! Is that all
you can manage? A dinner knife against me?”
Maddalen’s face was eerily calm as she held the pistol.
Ono laughed, “Do you think I’m scared of dying? If you knew how I’ve been
living my entire life then you’d realize that I actually look forward to it.” Suzue pulled
the barrel closer to his forehead and taunted, “Do it! Shoot!”
Maddalen narrowed her eyes and returned the weapon to its resting place. “Theo,
hold him, I’ve never tasted a human before.”
It was impossible to struggle against Jaeger. Ono watched as the tigress held
down his legs and slowly played with his sex. Suzue parted his lips when she took him
inside her mouth and sucked his throbbing flesh. Mrs. Jaeger caressed his inner thigh as
she devoured him hungrily. Maddalen glanced at Suzue’s closed eyes and sunk her teeth
into his hip. His scream only aroused her more as she lapped up the blood. Theo began
to chew on Suzue’s neck and murmered to his woman, “I want you to do that for me
- 217 -
Maddalen. No biting though.” He looked into Suzue’s flushed face, “My woman wants
you. Let her.”
The captive felt the soft mouth torturing his arousal again and allowed her to
drink him.
Mrs. Jaeger dismissed their plaything, “Stay in your room until…you are needed.”
Suzue shrugged on the kimono, “I’ll comply with your wishes but I need my
medicine. I won’t be of much use to you if I cannot function properly.”
Theo stretched out on the bed calmly, “You are performing your role very well
right now,” he laughed, “After my mate is pregnant we’ll reward you with doctor
Beyer’s prescription.”
“You don’t understand, I have to take it according to schedule and report the
results to him constantly. It’s not for my benefit but for all people. I’m testing it don’t
you understand? We would have to wait and see if Maddalen misses her cycle to be sure
she is pregnant---but I need the medicine now.”
The Jaeger’s were unmoved.
“Listen to me, I am a Beyer Company test subject!” Suzue pointed at his chest.
Theodor pretended to yawn, “Perhaps you should grasp that Beyer means nothing
to us because we are not the Jaegers.”
Maddalen cooed, “Theo, hurry, I’m wet for you now.”
Inside his room, Suzue found that all his clothes were replaced with various
kimono of deep colors. His shoes were missing and in their place were Japanese sandals.
They mock me. I am some sort of doll to them. Ono squeezed his eyes shut as his mind
tried to cope with the situation. Instead of sorting through the events and realizing a way
out, all he could hear and see was in his own imagination. He saw the Jaeger’s
copulating. When they were done they conversed in a strange language of some sort
mixed with low growls as Theodor nuzzled his lover’s neck. They aren’t human. Suzue
clutched his head. I’ve gone mad. He grabbed a chair and flung it with all his might
towards the large window of his room.
- 218 -
“When I am pregnant we should go home right away to our territory,” Maddalen
looked up Theodor, “I want the cub to be brought up right. Raised on fresh killed prey.”
Jaeger put a hand on his wife’s belly, “I agree, I’ll not have our blood mature in
this barbaric environment! It can never be a true hunter in this disgusting world.”
They held each other close for a moment. Theodor groomed Maddalen’s arm
with his rough tongue and stopped at the sound of shattering glass. She sighed and ran
her hand up and down her man’s hard abdomen, “Our pet must be so desperate to escape
through the window.”
“Let him have some fresh air.”
~~~~~~~~~~
Anton put his right hand on the box he had set on the seat next to him. The case
lacked enough evidence but he was sure the company is already compiling “facts” against
Odeon. Nontheless it would give him the perfect excuse to use lethal force if the
opportunity presented itself.
“Dear won’t this mean that the company would be allowed to keep doing this to
people?” Theresia tugged her husband’s collar.
The Met’s detective nodded, “Yes, I can’t stop it. Did you see how the officer’s
cowered in the presence of Beyer? They had to apologize several times for barging into
his office and taking up his valuable time. I will probably be disciplined for breaking that
wall clock. It’s ridiculous how a company could manipulate even the law.”
“It’s aweful how hospitals have become butcher shops,” Theresia lamented.
“And doctors, killers,” Anton looked out the window at the thick forest at the side
of the road, “We won’t reach the estate until tomorrow morning.”
~~~~~~~~~~
The Jaegers disdained this new habitat of the human world. However, they were
fond of singing in the strange tongue. Their voices floated on the breeze and penetrated
the thick foliage.
Maddalen wore a tight hunting outfit and boots as she shouldered a rifle. Mrs.
Jaeger reveled in the beauty of her own voice:
- 219 -
“Ich schau dir ins Gesicht,
I look at your face,
Das vor mir steht,
which is before me,
Doch erkenn’ich dich nicht mehr.
Yet I no longer recognize you.
Wo bist du? Wo bist du,
Where are you? Where are you,
Von gestern, du?” 89
you from yesterday?
Suzue only felt secure in complete darkness so he ran deeper into the wilderness
ignoring the cuts and bruises on his arm. A sharp stone pierced the soft underside of his
feet and he yelped slightly. My sandal must’ve come loose. Frustration and anger forced
a tear from his eye Ah! Father, my father who loved me! He once gave me a pair of
sandals. He was shocked at the sudden flash of memory from his childhood. What is
that? A small creek would lead to a village or town! The murmering water was
interrupted by Theodor’s deep sonorous voice:
“Heute siehst du weider starr aus,
Today you appear stiff and paralysed,
Als ob du des andern Maske trugst” as if you wore the mask of another.
Ono stretched out his arms in front of him as if to grasp the reassuring sound of
water. It was here! But now I can’t hear the water! It didn’t matter that he was lost,
Suzue saw a large shadow prowling towards him. Its large paws barely made a sound.
Small round ears were flattened against a large fur covered head. A sliver of moonlight
was reflected in the beast’s watery multi-colored eyes and drops of saliva hung from its
bared fangs.
Maddalen stood by the large unearthly animal, “I would let you run farther
precious, but I’m not in the mood for a chase. I am so sluggish after dinner not to
mention a bit sore from Theo.” The forest was plunged into a sudden blackness as a
cloud blocked the heavenly soft glow. When Suzue’s eyes adjusted to the darkness he
could see Theodor standing naked beside his lover. Their eyes were ablaze.
89
WALTZ written by Toru Takemitsu. Lyrics by Tatsuji Iwabuchi
- 220 -
“Come along doctor, you should let us fully express our hospitality rather than
demonstrate our superior hunting skills.” Jaeger reasoned, “We can track your scent
easily.”
“I would never let go of such a delicious prey,” Maddalen approached Suzue.
They shoved him inside a windowless room with a few books and humble bed.
“Get some rest now,” Maddalen patted his head fondly and closed the door. Suzue paced
his new cell and inhaled the stale air. His body was full of adrenaline and his lungs were
still burning. The doctor’s eyes focused on the clock hanging above the dark fireplace.
Suzue expelled all the air from his lungs and slowly crumpled to the floor. He smoothed
his hand on the Persian rug and relaxed as his body began to shut down. Suzue tried to
stop himself from slipping away but his exhaustion weakened his ability to resist.
Gradually his heart beat matched the rhythm of the clock and slowed itself further and
further. I cannot fall asleep, I won’t wake up. No… he whimpered, father was always
there to save me from my nightmares.
~~~~~~~~~~
The carriage stopped suddenly. Anton leapt from the car and ran to the front.
“Fuck!” Marquis kicked the large tree trunk blocking the road, “We’ll never get there in
time!” The driver and officer shook their head, “The townsmen have not had a chance to
clear the roads.” The Met’s agent looked at the pink horizon as sunrise approached.
Snowflakes gathered on the tinted glasses. Marquis held the stem of the spectacles
between his teeth and rubbed his eyes, even the weather is against me.
~~~~~~~~~~
Maddalen hissed, “What? How can this happen!”
Theodor shook his head and looked into the wooden coffin the servants had
prepared. He gently slapped Suzue’s pale face, “He doesn’t seem dead. I would keep him
for a few days to be sure. If he begins to rot we’ll have a fine meal although I prefer
fresh meat.” Jaeger pressed his ear to Ono’s chest, “I can’t hear anything.”
- 221 -
Maddalen pushed him aside and sniffed along Suzue’s neck and tried to listen for
the sound of blood in his jugular vein, “The blood is not flowing…regularly. If it was, I
should detect it. My hearing is much better than yours Theo.”
Theo threw a deer skin on their Japanese trophy, “Then we should bury him and
dig him up on a later day. That way he will not be able to escape.”
Mrs. Jaeger poked her husband’s chest, “No, remember you promised me that
when we’re done with him we could send him to a taxidermist and put him on a stand!”
she stomped her foot for emphasis, “Humans do that to our kind!”
“Beloved, the taxidermists only work with animals not humans, now I’ve tried to
read books on that art but we do not have time to buy the turpentine and wire needed to
preserve him.” He scratched his chin, “You’ve become so spoiled in this human world.”
Theo put his arm around her waist.
She narrowed her eyes, “Humans are animals. How dare they see themselves as
superior!” Maddalen buried her face in Theo’s chest, “I wanted to see him sit like a
samurai in those colorful picture books on his haunches on that wood platform. He
would look so splendid. We can even buy him some swords! If you bury him then he
will suffocate underground you fool.”
“I don’t think it is wise to have a rotting body pollute the house Maddalen, we
don’t know how long we have to stay here,” Theo was being firm.
“Fine then bury him, but it is such a waste if he isn’t really dead,” She snarled.
Suzue’s eyelids opened halfway slightly and he saw the two creatures above him.
Oddly, a part of him still lusted after the wild uninhibited couple. It was his fear of them
that made his desire so uncontrollable. When he was with Akemi, he was afraid of losing
himself to such a low woman. Now he yearned to be claimed and used by the Jaegers.
Suzue’s heart rate was so sluggish that the blood in his veins only crawled. Even the
felines could not discern that he was hibernating. Some of the servants approached with
a lid. No! No! Ono screamed inside his mind but his lips would not move.
They buried the simple wooden box in a garden behind the mansion. In no time
at all the two attendants of the estate had completed their task.
“Theo, this has not happened to me before since---“ Maddalen whispered, “Since
our first one.” She licked her lips.
- 222 -
“You mean, you have become ravenous? Perhaps your womb is occupied.”
Jaeger lowered his voice as he watched the men pat the mound of dirt with their shovels.
The Germans pulled their jackets closer around their necks, “Sir, Madame, should we go
into town and report the death and buy supplies? I think there will be an early spring
snowstorm so we must travel now or risk being stranded here.”
The Jaegers were not listening to their attendants. Maddalen spoke in the
language only her kind could understand, “Have them dig Suzue up. I’m so hungry.
Perhaps I am already carrying a cub? Alive or not, his blood must be so sweet. I can’t
suppress this urge.”
Theodor smiled broadly as he emitted a throaty reply in their native words to his
life mate, “Too much trouble. It’s been too long since we had their flesh. Why dig up
the Oriental when we have two Germans before us? I’ll need the energy to fuck you
again to be sure we will have a family when we get home.” Maddalen nodded and her
eyes dilated as she focused on the prey before her, “And now we don’t need Suzue to
love each other in human bodies. We have learned so much from him.”
The estate servants had never seen their masters like this before. The Jaeger’s
growled, gnashed their teeth and approached the two helpless humans.
~~~~~~~~~~
“Get lanterns, hurry!” Anton yelled at the officer and driver as he ran towards the
Jaeger mansion. It was almost sunset and the sudden snow-storm had slowed their
journey. Icy winds fogged the tinted glasses perched on Marquis’ nose. The front door
was unlocked and he ran inside with a pistol in hand. The master bedroom had been
plundered, jewelry cases were empty. Another room was stocked with Japanese garb.
Anton ran down stairs and met his assistant who covered his mouth as he tried to speak,
“Oh god, I found a maid in the kitchen. Her entrails have been dragged out.”
Marquis shoved the officer aside and dashed to the back of the estate alarmed that
his target may have killed the Jaegers and fled. The thick pure white snow obscured two
mounds in the garden. Anton smoothed away the wintery onslaught and nearly jumped
back from the sight of a partially eaten human. Wolves? Suzue would not do this. He’s a
doctor not a cannibal. The blood and body were nearly frozen but clearly the kill was
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made the same day. Another corpse with its legs ripped off still clutched a shovel. They
were working? Burying something maybe.
The German officer brought out a lantern to the garden which allowed Anton a
chance to wander across the landscape. His foot sank slightly into the ground,
“Someone, bring me the box from the carriage.”
Suzue was not asleep. He could not slumber without Dr. Beyer’s medicine. They
all betrayed me. They are the animals! They ruined my noble goals. A frozen tear was
fixed on the side of the doctor’s face. Beyer has taken my experiment my hopes and
dreams. All my plans have failed! Ono barely needed to breath in the box. The sound of
metal hitting the lid gave him the incentive of trying to fully open his eyes, but alas his
efforts failed. A light illuminated his dark world.
“Bastard!” Anton spat.
“I’m here Mr. Marquis, there is no need for profanity. Surely you do not expect
me to escape.”
The investigator clutched his ear and widened his eyes, “You’re still alive!”
Marquis grabbed Suzue’s collar and lifted the body slightly. He dropped Ono when he
realized that the corpse was stiff. The back of Suzue’s head hit the uncushioned casket.
“Don’t do that again please. It’s very rude of you. I can speak to you like this
only when I am in this state.”
“I’ll be the one asking questions! What did you do to the Jaegers?”
The German officer watched as Anton glared and yelled at the dead Oriental
laying in the coffin. Why is Mr. Marquis doing this?
“I did nothing to the Jaegers. I have no idea where they are. The Jaegers put me
here.”
Anton pushed the glasses up his nose, “I know what happened in Japan and
everything about your life. You’ll answer for your crimes and what you did to me.”
Marquis unconsciously tried to raise his left arm.
“If I could laugh at your condition I would Mr. Marquis. But that would be very
unprofessional of a doctor like me to do so. You still wear those glasses. You really are
afraid of me Mr. Marquis. You need not be so cautious. I cannot even open my eyes
fully.” Suzue spoke in Anton’s mind again, “You should be more concerned about your
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condition. Who has been keeping you company? I saw something in the carriage with
you that night.”
“My wife Theresia.”
“Ah, she is dead. You must have entranced yourself to constantly see her. How
amazing that you live day by day as a sleepwalker just to see a ghost! My, my Mr.
Marquis is a master of mesmerism.”
Anton and the German officer pulled the body out of the hole and laid it on the
snow.
The corpse whispered again, “You and I are both operators of rare abilities. You
must note this truth I will reveal to you.”
Marquis held an ax in his right hand, “What?”
“At a certain level, we attain clairvoyance. This has happened to me twice.”
Anton turned to his assistant, “You can charge me with defiling a corpse later
officer but I have to do this. I have full authority to do this.” The German was alarmed
at the thought of what Marquis was about to do. He saw the investigator staring intently
at the dead Japanese man.
“Are you listening Mr. Marquis? Please pay attention. I saw you decapitate me
even when I was a boy. I have even seen my beloved mentor killed in my dreams.”
Marquis grimaced, “I’m afraid that I’ll have to cut this fantastic conversation
short doctor.”
“Be sure to strike between the vertabra Anton, it will be less messy that way.”
“Unfortunately, my knowledge of anatomy is very limited Suzue.”
Anton brought the axe down on the pale neck with all the strength he could
muster in one arm. Only a trickle of blood dripped from the detached head. Marquis
followed the instructions included the box. His mission was complete.
As the strong hand pulled up his head by the hair, Suzue had a few moments to
look at the world around him. He saw clouds, trees, snow. Ono rolled back his dark gem
like eyes forever. The German officer nearly screamed when he saw the dead body’s
right hand quiver slightly as if making an effort to reach for something.
Anton shook his head, your pocketwatch is beyond your grasp Suzue.
- 225 -
~~~~~~~~~~
1886 TOKYO
Fujita Gorou saw a stocky westerner balance a box wrapped in silk with one arm.
Fujita gestured to an assistant to help with the man’s luggage.
Anton tried to return the bow the tall Japanese man in uniform made. Gorou
relieved him of the heavy box and said, “Palace,” he forgot the greeting word in English
but atleast he was able to tell Marquis-san where they had to go.
Marquis was amazed how the Imperial place was really just a more large version
of the Japanese estates he had seen in Tokyo. There were many guards in uniform who
gave him suspicious looks. Anton wondered where all the women were hiding.
The Empress was dressed in western attire today and to her right sat her loyal
translator Yamagawa Sutematsu. The lady in waiting looked at Anton’s sleeve which
was pinned at his left shoulder.
The detective could see her curiosity, “I lost my arm while working on this case.
Suzue is…”
“He is vicious and full of venom. Yes, I know,” Sutematsu’s large eyes brimmed
with sympathy.
When Fujita began to unravel the brocade silk and worked on the box, the Queen
of Japan hid the lower half of her face with a fan. Sutematsu turned away.
Gorou placed opened the box which was outfitted on all sides with a wall of
charcoal between the wood to absorb any foul odor. The container was made of fragrant
sandalwood to cloak the rotting contents. Fujita rotated the front of the box to face him
and pulled down the side.
Anton himself was shocked to see the eagerness of the samurai to examine the
head.
Sutematsu asked, “Fujita-san, is it him?”
Gorou smiled, “Yes.” He took a strip of clothe and blindfolded the head, placed it
on a lacquer tray and held it before him reverently to the female ruler.
- 226 -
The Scotland Yard agent, out of morbid interest, looked. The head was pale but
in remarkably good condition. Although Suzue’s most striking feature, his eyes, were
obscured, the face was like a jade mask, a treasure, so wonderful to behold in any light.
Interestingly, the black hair had grown slightly longer, further softening the masculine
features.
The Empress seemed pleased, “Destroy it.”
Marquis was not particularly interested to see how the head was to be disposed of
but his Japanese counterpart wanted to make him part of the process. The papers,
notebooks and personal items which Anton had confiscated from Germany, as well the
box of material from the Ono estate, were tossed into a large furnace. Gorou placed the
head on a metal tray and made sure it faced outward and slid it into the blaze. Unlike
Marquis who placed a pair of colored glasses on his face, Fujita stared at Ono as the fire
began to consume its fuel. Flames soon singed the beautiful hair and flawless skin. Hot,
golden light burst through the nostrils and eyesockets, obliterating the blind fold. The
skin was eaten by the heat and a dark skull began to appear.
You still wear those glasses. You really are afraid of me Mr. Marquis.
Anton removed his tinted spectacles and flung them at the head.
Think of me kindly and often.
Fujita slammed the large metal door shut.
The two investigators looked at each other momentarily. Both were confused over
the other’s actions.
Anton was anticipating some stench to fill the room and he covered his face with
a handkerchief. Interestingly, the room smelled like nothing more than burning dried
leaves.
“Sir, you know Egyptians do the same thing with the head of cobras. They burn
them in a fire.” Anton walked alongside Gorou who could not understand a word he was
saying.
Theresia and her gruff husband enjoyed the rest of their stay in Japan, especially
since the Empress had rewarded the investigator with a small fortune and various gifts
which would allow him to have an early retirement from his job.
- 227 -
Fujita occasionally accompanied the British man about Tokyo, not because he
was a lively guide, but to observe the foreigners eccentricities. Marquis-san is fond of
buying women’s cosmetics. How odd. Western men probably degrade themselves by
purchasing many gifts for their wives. All I do is give Tokio my money and do as she
wishes only behind closed doors. These barbarians are so open with their affections.
Nontheless, Gorou respected the man for dispatching Ono. Occasionally he heard
Marquis-san speak to himself as well.
“Anton, I must have that hairpin with the silk cherry blossoms.” Theresia clung
to her man’s arm.
“Anything you wish.”
~~~~~~~~~~
Maddalen panted in the warm cave as her litter of cubs sucked her firm nipples.
They protested and piled on one another as they sought sustenance from their protective
mother.
Her golden eyes were greeted by the sight of her beloved, “I’m so hungry. You
took too long Theo!”
“I went to watch the new group of humans. There are many of them this time. If
they get to close to our territory we will have to hunt them.” Jaeger threw down the leg
of zebra before his mate. His fur changed from dark brown into deep violet to match the
cave’s interior.
Mrs. Jaeger tore into the flesh as her children kept feeding, “Their eyes will open
soon. I want their first solid meal to be human blood.”
Theo rolled on the dirt and stretched out his large claws in the air before laying
alongside his wife. He licked Maddalen’s face and ears, “Ofcourse.” He growled
proudly as a chubby spotted cub tumbled between his paws.
~~~~~~~~~~
- 228 -
1887 TOKYO
“I will give him the best of everything,” Numazawa Shichiro watched as Fujita
Tokio, his cousin, placed the baby boy in his wife’s arms.
Gorou nodded, “Yes, Tatsuo is your boy now.” Fujita was amazed how he still
saw in Shichiro, the teenager he met in the prisoner of war camp decades ago.
The Numazawa couple and Tokio sat before a monk who proceeded to bless the
child.
Fujita went to see his friend, the elderly monk, who handled special cases in the
garden at the side of temple, “Honored one, please dispose of this.” He placed the dull,
dead pocket watch in front of the ascetic.
“Why did you keep it for so long?”
The samurai watched Tokio hug Shichiro’s wife, “I was not sure who it belonged
to. If the watch is the possession of the first owner, a man named Engelon-san, or Ono
Suzue.”
“It belongs to no one. Ownership of anything is an illusion.”
Gorou smoothed his moustache and thought for a moment, “All items I have
given to you are from victims of crime and injustice. I think Engelon was the prey of…”
The wise man shook his head, “No that is not the impression I get from this item.
Not at all. However, even Ono and Engelon’s relationship is also…”
The man with five names smiled, “Yes I know, an illusion!”
~~~~~~~~~~
The hunters were pleased with the game they had killed.
“If we could find more of this species we’ll make a fortune selling their pelt.”
“It’s amazing how the fur changes color in the light. Positively unearthly.”
“Imagine how much money we could make if we caught a mated pair and had
them reproduce for us.”
- 229 -
They wiped the grime from their faces and swapped stories on how they had
cornered the young but incredibly large feline and shot it several times. A masculine
voice floated in the night air:
Behold the Lord High Executioner
A personage of noble rank and title-A dignified and potent officer,
Whose functions are particularly vital!
Defer, defer,
To the Lord High Executioner!90
“Did you hear that?” A hunter took off his hat and stood up.
The others began to look around, “I swore I heard someone sing something from
that operetta the Mikado.”
“Preposterous! This is Africa!”
A feminine voice carried a romantic tune:
The sun, whose rays
Are all ablaze
With ever-living glory 91
“Some nearby camp must be entertaining themselves,” the man placed his hand
on a rifle.
“We are the only group to venture in this territory. The others listened to those
superstitious villagers.”
Mr. and Mrs. Jaeger slowly circled the group. With very little effort, they exacted
revenge for the loss of yet another one of their children to barbaric humans and had a fine
feast. They had a lively conversation as they ate, “Theo don’t you find it strange that we
can still think like the Jaegers? I can remember everything from their lives.”
90
lyrics from THE MIKADO Act I by William S. Gilbert.
lyrics from THE MIKADO Act II by William S. Gilbert. The song refers to the flag of Japan and the majesty of the
Imperial line.
91
- 230 -
“I do not mind it much dear. Their songs and poems are entertaining enough.
Maddalen can have the innards from that fat one?”
“Ofcourse!” Maddalen tugged out a liver with her powerful jaws and dropped the
organ in front of her man, “I want you to keep up your energy.” She twitched her ear.
“Yes precious we must copulate tonight as humans.” Theo rubbed his bloody
muzzle and whiskers with a paw, “I love the sensation of their bodies.”
“Oh Theo you’ve become so good at it too!” Her large tongue teased the bottom
of a razor sharp fang.
~~~~~~~~~~
February 11, 1889 TOKYO
A Grand Event: The Promulgation of the Meiji Constitution
“Tokyo is in a state of indescribable excitement over the preparations for the
promulgation of the constitution…Triumphal arches everywhere, plans for illumination
and for processions. The great joke is that no one has the least idea of what the
constitution will contain!” (Baelz 81) 92
Without foreknowledge of how his ideas would outlive him nor how his
intentions would be further perverted by others, Moriyama Arinori stood before a mirror
in his residence and enjoyed a fleeting moment of pride. I have worked sincerely for the
betterment of Nippon. From the butchery of the civil war our land will emerge modern
and great just like the countries of the west.
On January 25th he was horrified to face a crowd of angry students at the Tokyo
University Engineering building. They hate me for raising tuition and telling them that
the fatal fire at the dorm was entirely their fault! What wounded the viscount deeply was
that the youths had chanted over and over again “You are behind the times! Behind
times! Minister!” The crowd had become so unruly that he had to leave the stage without
taking or answering their questions. The students were so blatant that police had to
92
Baelz, Erwin O. E. von, 1849-1913. Awakening Japan: the diary of a German doctor: Erwin Baelz, edited by
his son, Toku Baelz; translated from the German by Eden and Cedar Paul. New York, The Viking press, 1932.
- 231 -
disperse bands of young men who roamed the streets. The voices of the future generation
had injured him.
I have become a conservative, a machine made man with no spirit or innovation!
Even his former ally and secretary Izawa Shuji had verbally attacked him one night. I
had no choice but to dismiss him for utter disrespect. He and the rest of the younger men
are ingrates! We sent them abroad to study and bring back the treasures of knowledge.
Instead they second guess and question my leadership! Mori smoothed his grey beard.
Stability is important, more key than innovation or change. He looked at his polished
shoes sitting in a wooden box, I sacrifice my former youthful spirit to ensure that the land
is not infected by dissent. Moriyama sighed, politics brought out the darker aspects of his
nature. Perhaps I am more like Okubo-san than I realize.
His steward bowed at the entrance to his room, “Master, there is a young man
here to see you. He wanted to warn you that students wish to harm you during the
torchlight procession this evening.”
Moriyama thought of the strange letter he had received years ago from his
attractive protégé Ono Suzue and lamented the tragic life of the talented young man. I
can barely remember his charming young face. It was as if Suzue had never existed.
“Tell the man that I am too busy now. I have received such warnings before. I
appreciate his concern.”
Fujita Gorou had decided not to take the special shift today. Many experienced
officers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department were asked to provide security for
all the officials who would stand before the emperor, in their official costume, to
celebrate the important document. Fujita had consistently spoken to all of Moriyama’s
security personel and warned them to be ever vigilant, “That Zada Shigehide had better
be doing his job.” Gorou puffed on a cigar and immediately regretted staying home as he
heard Tokio talking to herself in the kitchen. I hope she does not realize that I had given
away all the uncooked soba. I cannot stand those noodles anymore.
- 232 -
The head servant was dissuading the young man as Moriyama descended the
stairs. He waited for the carriage to arrive as the youth slowly approached, “Moriyamasan, my name is Buntaro.”
The forty-one year old man nodded to Buntaro, “I cannot meet with you today, I
am about to depart for the palace.”
“Indeed, you are about to depart minister for the disrespect you showed at the Ise
Grand Shrine. On behalf of my family who has guarded the sacred grounds the deity you
disturbed that day, I punish you.”
Nishino Buntaro drew out a sharp kitchen knife from his sleeve and plunged it
into the Minister’s abdomen. The loyal servant ran in and tried to protect Moriyama. In
the end it took three sword slashes by Zada Shighide to finish the crazed visitor. The
Minister of Education, considered to be the bridge between feudalism and new Japan
crawled a bit in his own blood, painting a grotesque pattern in front of his home. He had
been spared the horrors of the Boshin War when swords carved through countless human
beings yet now he was mortally wounded by nothing more than a warped religious
fanatic93.
“Viscount Mori was not rendered unconscious by his wound, and messengers
were at once dispatched for doctors, but all the great physicians had gone to court and
all the little ones were out enjoying the holiday, and it was three hours before medical
aid could be obtained.” (Bacon 141-142)
Yamagawa Kenziro looked at the small red and white flags which hung about the
throne room. He was a keen analyst of the new economy and recalled how Beyer had
broken into the Japanese dye market earlier and for a time was the sole provider of the
bright red color. Now that its formula has been mimicked, the pharmaceutical company
had to develop more products to sell in Nippon. The perfect red circles were so beautiful
and uniform against the white clothe. They were all machine made ofcourse and flawless
symbols of industry and modernity. Kenziro turned around and glared at his friend
93
See Hall, Bacon and Baelz to learn the motivations of the murderer Nishino Buntaro. Hall proposes an
off-the wall theory that Mori Arinori had not intentionally disrespected a Shinto shrine, rather he had be
“set up”.
- 233 -
Takahashi who was oblivious that everyone could hear every word of the conversation he
was having with Izawa.
“You mean to tell me that Inoue Kouashi had supported a newspaper which
promoted his ideas and that he published letters under a pen name praising his own
policies?” Takahashi adjusted his glasses.
Izawa sensei nodded, “Oh yes! Isn’t it underhanded?”
“Amazing. Wait. I hope he never realizes that I was one of those who wrote in to
argue with him.”
“Did you use a pen name Takahashi?”
“Ofcourse, it is too dangerous to oppose such ideas using one’s real name.” He
smiled.
Yamagawa stared at Takahashi, hoping that such an obvious gesture would
silence the chatter. Instead, Takahashi smiled and waved at him, “Hello Kenziro!”
“The ceremony is about to start moron,” Kenziro lifted his eyebrow, “be quiet!”
“In front of the Emperor, somewhat to the left, were ranged the ministers of State
and the highest officials. Behind were the chief nobles…Immediately to the left of the
Emperor was the diplomatic corps. The gallery surrounding the hall had been opened to
the other high officials and to a number of foreigners. The Empress followed with the
princesses and the court ladies. The Empress wore a European dress, pink, with a train.
On either side of the throne a high dignitary now stepped forward…each of them with a
roll of parchment…The Emperor took the other document, opened it, and read it in a
loud voice voice…The whole business lasted about ten minutes. Meanwhile salutes were
being fired, and bells were being rung everywhere. The ceremony was dignified and
brilliant. The only trouble was that the throne-room…is coloured red, and was therefore
too dark.” (Baelz 81-82)
Everyone had bowed as the Emperor left the room. A dark shadow moved along
the walls and expanded itself like a large crow spreading its wings. Someone tapped
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Takahashi-sensei on the shoulder and whispered, “All personel in the field of education
will be provided with security for the next few days.”
“Why? I work at the Normal School, I’ve never needed bodyguards before.”
The uniformed officer looked around the shadowy room as his comrades spread
across the room to quietly inform the very important men of the talent who attended the
event, “Something aweful has befallen the Minister of Education we need to be
cautious.”
Yamagawa was carefully listening to the whispers circulating in the room but his
eyes remained fixed at the front as he tried to read the lips of Inoue Kouashi, the true
author of the constitution, discussing something with Kuroda Kiyotaka, the Prime
Minister.
“Tragic that this should happen now.” Kuroda shook his head.
Inoue, still cautious that he would begin coughing at any moment, kept a
handkerchief over his mouth, “Yes and the post of Minister of Education is so very
important.”
“Kuroda whispered, you want the job don’t you Inoue?”
“For the sake of Japan, yes.”
“During that time,” in which doctors were sought, “the poor man [Mori Arinori]
had lost so much blood that, although the wound was not of such a nature as to be
necessarily fatal, he died within twenty-four hours…His death was not announced
[publicly]…that the festivities of the day might not be interfered with; for here in Japan a
man cannot die legally…until the government gives him permission.” (Bacon 141-142)
“The Japanese constitution has been published. The amount of freedom it grants to the
people is remarkably small, and yet strangely enough, the newspapers have received it
with a chorus of approval…Although the constitution promised the widest possible
freedom of the press, within a month of the promulgation the government has found it
necessary to suspend publication of no less than five newspapers.” (Baelz 83-85)
- 235 -
Ono Suzue was the precursor of the more reknown psychologists of Tokyo
University who focused on parapsychology and mind control. While Ono had frequently
used his pocket watch, his voice and his eyes to persuade his subjects, the government
was by far more skillfull in transforming Japan into Imperial Japan.
"They have public meetings, and men with languagitis...hand out a wonderful flow of
words about the nation's glory, the greatness of its heroes, and the victories of the past.
The people are smitten and the mesmerism starts. The rulers and governors join in with
strong words about the 'duty to the Fatherland,' and the mesmerism increases. Bands and
orchestras play nothing but national airs, nothing else is acceptable...the shops for the
manufacture of war materials are working night and day---something doing. The
mesmerism is increasing fast. All the theatres have plays in keeping with the desires of
the people. Soldiers parade often and are received with great applause. Children drop
their usual games and drill and fight mimic battles. The nation is by this time drunk with
mesmerism, and goes to war. They fight until exhausted or the bankers call the game."
(Stilwell 19)
THE END
- 236 -
Author Notes
The Pet Rabbit
Dangers of hypnosis? Can people be induced to commit murder?
I used the information from that era, therefore it cannot be compared to modern day
scientific standards. The following information is from “operators” or practitioners of
mesmerism/hypnosis.
"Different dictionaries define it as the act of inducing an abnormal state of the nervous
system, in which the thoughts and acts of the person or persons are controlled by others."
(Stilwell 17)
"In the lethargic conditions, it is asserted that patients may be robbed or assaulted,
whereas in the other states, it is said that they may be induced to commit crimes, such as
forgery, larceny, or even murder...It must...be borne in mind that lethargy and lucid
lethargy...classes are relatively small." (Kingsbury 118)
"Liegeois...asserts that it is a comparatively easy matter to induce patients to commit
even murder." (Kingsbury 118)
"In many works upon Magnetism somnambulism has been represented as a state of
purity, in which man is superior to the passions, and would reject the slightest thought
which would wound decency or the moral sense...the principle generalized is absolutely
false." (Deleuze 251)
Sleep on the Sea
Needle
Yamagawa brought out a needle and approached the bed, “Don’t look Ume. Turn
around.”
- 237 -
The use of needles to revive people who are unconscious is in fact an old Chinese
remedy. I read this detail in both a book written in Thai and at another point in a book
written in English which covered medicine in the ancient world. The use of needles
under nails became a method of torture in WW2 by the Imperial Army in the Pacific
theatre. During the Victorian Era, there was a profound and logical fear of burying
people alive after they supposedly died. To prevent the error, doctors also pricked the
skin of cadavers with needles several times to ensure that they in fact had passed on.
The biography of Mark Twain also reveals that needles were used “stage”
hypnosis in the 19th century, “As a boy, Twain volunteered to be a hypnotic subject for a
stage hypnotist. The latter was apparently successful in inducing a deep trance, which
Twain in fact dissembled. At one point, Twain even tolerated people sticking needles
through his flesh; although this caused him excruciating pain, he successfully suppressed
all outward expressions of discomfort.” (Bowers 10) So convincing was the boy’s act
that he was “never able to convince his mother in later years that he had faked the whole
episode.” (Bowers 10).
Red on Black
The letters between Moriyama and Ono Suzue are based on Naibu Kanda writing to Mori
Arinori very often.
Select Bibliography
Bacon, Alice Mabel, 1858-1918. A Japanese Interior. Boston and New York,
Houghton, Mifflin and Company, 1893.
Baelz, Erwin O. E. von, 1849-1913. Awakening Japan: the diary of a German
doctor: Erwin Baelz, edited by his son, Toku Baelz; translated from the German by Eden
and Cedar Paul. New York, The Viking press, 1932.
Beer, John J. Coal Tar Dye Manufacture and the Origins of the Modern Industrial
Research Laboratory. Isis, Vol 49, No 2 (June 1958) pages 123-131.
Borton, Hugh. Japan’s Modern Century. New York: The Ronald Press Company,
1955.
- 238 -
Calman, Donald. The Nature and Origins of Japanese Imperialism: A
Reinterpretation of the Great Crisis of 1873. London: Routledge, 1992.
Cortazzi, Hugh. Dr. Willis in Japan, 1862-1877 : British medical pioneer. London ;
Dover, N.H. : Athlone Press, 1985.
Hackett, Roger F. Yamagata Aritomo in the rise of modern Japan, 1838-1922.
Cambridge, Harvard University Press, 1971.
Hall, Ivan Parker. Mori Arinori. Cambridge, Mass. : Harvard University Press, 1973.
Iwata, Masakazu. Okubo Toshimichi : the Bismarck of Japan.Berkeley : University of
California Press, 1964.
Khan, Yoshimitsu. Inoue Kowashi and the Dual Images of the Emperor of Japan. Pacific
Affairs, Vol. 71, No. 2 (Summer, 1998) pages 215-230.
Meyer-Thurow, Georg. The Industrialization of Invention: A Case Study from the
German Chemical Industry. Isis, Vol 73. No 3 (Sept 1982) pages 363-381.
Motoyama, Yukihiko. Proliferating Talent: Essays on Politics, Thought and
Education in the Meiji Era. Honolulu: University of Hawai’I, 1997.
Kuno, Akiko. Unexpected Destinations: The Poignant Story of Japan’s First Vassar
Graduate. Tokyo: Kodansha International, 1993.
Roach, Mary. Stiff : the curious lives of human cadavers. Penguin Books Ltd; New Ed
edition, 2004.
Setsuko Princess Chichibu. The Silver Drum: A Japanese Imperial Memoir.
England: Global Oriental, 1996.
Shiba, Goro. (translated by Teruko Craig) Remembering Aizu: The Testament of
Shiba Goro. University of Hawai’i Press: Honolulu, 1999.
Shimoda, Hiraku, PhD Dissertation. Between homeland and nation: Aizu in early
modern and modern Japan. HARVARD UNIVERSITY, 2005, 409 pages.
Steinhoff, Gerhard. Aspirin manual : basic principles and effects of the drug of the
century. Leverkusen, Germany : Bayer AG Consumer Care Business Group, c1998
Watanabe, Masao. The Japanese and Western Science. University of Pennsylvania
Press, 1991.
- 239 -
Wilder, Burt G. (Burt Green), 1841-1925. Anatomical technology as applied to the
domestic cat; an introduction to human, veterinary, and comparative anatomy.
New York, A.S. Barnes, 1886.
Wright, Diana E. Female Combatants and Japan’s Meiji Restoration: The Case of Aizu.
War in History. 2001 8 (4) 396-417.
Hypnotism, Animal Magnetism, Mesmerism or Animal Fascination
Bowers, Kenneth S. Hypnosis for the seriously curious. New York : Jason Aronson,
c1977.
Buranelli, Vincent. The Wizard from Vienna: Franz Anton Mesmer A biography of the
18th –century doctor who laid the foundation for modern psychiatry. New York: Coward,
1975.
Dods, John Bovee, 1795-1872. Six lectures on the philosophy of mesmerism
delivered in the Marlboro’ Chapel, Boston. Reported by a hearer. New York,
Fowlers and Wells, 1847. Vol. 3, no. 4, of a collection with binders’s title: Houdini
pamphlets; hypnotism.
Deleuze, J. P. F. (Joseph Philippe Francois), 1753-1835. Translated by Thomas C.
Hartshorn. Practical instruction in animal magnetism. Rev. ed. With an appendix of
notes by the translator, and letters from eminent physicians, and other, descriptive of
cases in the United States. New York, Fowler and Wells Co.; London, L.N. Fowler & Co.
[1879]
Estabrooks, George Hoben, 1895- . Hypnotism. New York, Dutton, 1957.
Hull, Clark Leonard, 1884-1952. Hypnosis and suggestibility; an experimental
approach. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1968. (Hull, interestingly was a
professor of Psychology at Yale University---if you recall Yale was one of the major
schools which took an interest in this field in the early 19th century)
Kingsbury, George Chadwick. The practice of hypnotic suggestion, being and
elementary handbook for the use of the medical profession. Bristol, Wright, 1891.
Stilwell, Arthur Edward, 1861-1928. Universal peace--war is mesmerism. New York,
The Bankers Pub. Co.; [etc., etc.] 1911.
Teste, Alphonse, b. 1814. A practical manual of animal magnetism ... with its
application to the treatment & care of diseases; tr. from the 2d ed. by D. Spillan.
London, Bailliere, 1843.
- 240 -

1- The following story contains scenes of graphic

Transcription

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