Shunkan/Kikaigashima : PhotoStory

A messenger is traveling to an island where three rebels have been banished. He carries a letter of pardon that will allow two of them to return to the capital.

Shunkan, a high priest, is among those exiled on Kikaigashima Island in southern Satsuma (Kagoshima).

Shunkan pours out some valley water for his fellow exiles, Fujiwara no Naritsune and Taira no Yasuyori. He calls it is sake.

He misses the splendid life he lived in the capital. He tries a dance, but his spirits are low.

When the messenger arrives, the exiles are filled with joy. But Shunkan’s name is not on the letter of pardon.

He is to be left on the solitary island. As if waking from a nightmare, Shunkan throws aside the letter, overcome with grief.

It is time for the boat to leave. Shunkan, who has come along, clings to the sleeve of Yasunori.

His fellows board the boat. Shunkan hangs onto the mooring rope, but it is cut and ends up in a heap on the shore.

With shouts and tears, they leave Shunkan behind. The ship heads off into the distance.