Love Under the Crucifix

Ogin and Ukon have been friends since childhood. Ukon introduces her to the Christian faith when she is sixteen. During a visit to Ogin's father's house, she confesses her love for him, but his upcoming marriage makes it impossible for them to be together.

Soon after the confession, Shintaro of the Mozuya family proposes to Ogin. She reluctantly accepts, guided by her mother's warning that refusing could bring consequences for her father. Ukon's silent lack of opposition weighs on her decision.

Two years pass and Shintaro accuses Ogin of still loving Ukon, while he himself cannot resist her. Around the same time, anti-Christian politics escalate and Ukon is sent into exile for his faith. The looming separation tests loyalties on all sides.

Ogin and Shintaro meet Ukon for one final farewell. Shintaro hopes to preserve a business relationship with Ukon despite the distance that will separate them. The scene underscores the personal cost of political persecution.

Shortly after the farewell, Ogin witnesses a young woman executed for refusing Hidetsugu's mistress demand. The execution shows the brutal moral compromises demanded by power. The woman faces her fate with quiet fulfilment.

During a tea ceremony at Hideyoshi's residence, Ishida approaches Shintaro and proposes a plan to block Ukon's rehabilitation and to prosecute both. The moment blends ritual grace with a looming political trap.

Ogin and Ukon are drawn into the arranged meeting but manage to escape before authorities can seize them. They take shelter in a farmer's hut as pursuit closes in.

In the farmer's hut, Ogin learns that Ukon's wife has died. They spend the night together, sharing a moment of solace amid danger and separation. The night deepens their complicated bond.

Returning to her husband, Ogin asks Shintaro for a divorce so she can pursue Ukon openly. The request reframes loyalties and beginnings of new paths.

Hideyoshi intends to claim Ogin as his mistress and invites her to his palace. She refuses, and he gives her two days to reconsider, threatening that she could cost her father's life if she resists.

Sen no Rikyu makes preparations to help Ogin escape to Ukon and even consider self-sacrifice. Before any escape can be attempted, the house is surrounded by soldiers.

Ogin resolves to take her own life and entrusts a maid with a fan bearing her farewell note for Ukon, who has taken refuge in Kaga. The farewell marks the ultimate separation between them.