Story 2

Kusuko: The Unconventional Charms of a Japanese Noblewoman

As I delve into the annals of history, I can't help but extend my gratitude for not having been born a humble peasant in ancient Japan—a sentiment that is only marginally surpassed by the notion of being born into royalty during those bygone times! 😂 The lives of nobility, it turns out, were quite the spectacle!

Enter Fujiwara Kusuko, a noblewoman of 9th-century Japan who bore the fruit of her union with a high-ranking nobleman—five offspring to be precise. On one fateful day, her daughter's destiny was intertwined with a prince, a scion of the 50th Emperor Kanmu.

As her daughter embarked on the journey to the Imperial Palace, young and in need of a helping hand, Kusuko decided to accompany her. Little did she know, her presence would spark an unexpected twist in the tale, for upon setting eyes on this royal procession, the prince swiftly found himself lovestruck... with the mother! 😂

Emperor Kanmu, understandably taken aback, swiftly intervened, decreeing that the star-crossed pair could no longer rendezvous.

But as fate would have it, with the passing of Kanmu and the ascension of the prince to become the 51st Emperor Heizei, a remarkable change occurred. Heizei, it seems, couldn't resist the undeniable allure of Kusuko, appointing her as his highest secretary and showering her with affection. Kusuko, one must surmise, possessed an enchantment that transcended age! 😂

At this juncture, Emperor Heizei was a spry 32, while Kusuko had gracefully entered her 40s. Yet, Kusuko's legend didn't cease here. It is conjectured that she skillfully wielded her influence over the Emperor, dipping her fingers into the turbulent pool of politics.

A brief but dramatic tussle unfolded between Heizei and his younger sibling Saga. Heizei, after relinquishing the throne to Saga, performed a U-turn, demanding the crown back. This abrupt about-face led to a confrontation in which Heizei tasted defeat and capitulated. In the wake of these tumultuous events, Kusuko chose to imbibe poison, bringing her story to a tragic close.

In hindsight, one can't help but appreciate the serenity of a peaceful existence. 😌

(And let us not forget the beautiful woodblock print by MAEDA Masao, capturing the essence of this captivating historical narrative!)

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The woodblock print is by MAEDA Masao (1904 - 1974).

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