In general, anyone with some insight into Japan's current politics is aware of the feuds between Ii Naosuke and the Mito Domain.
As Aoto was pondering how to succinctly explain this somewhat complex issue to Mr. Chokata, a gentlemanly voice suddenly came from behind them:
"If you don't mind... I can help explain it."
"Mr. Yamanaka?" Aoto turned his head in surprise to see Yamanaka Keisuke sitting at the table behind him, turning his head to smile elegantly at them.
...
...
Aoto's table was a six-person table, with enough space for Yamanaka to join them.
After inviting Yamanaka to sit with them, Aoto immediately asked his gentlemanly old friend in surprise: "Mr. Yamanaka, what brings you here?"
"Encountered some bothersome matters recently," Yamanaka said lightly, "To relieve my gloom, I went to Yudashima Tenman Temple today to view the still-blooming white plum blossoms."
"I unintentionally got entranced, and by the time I snapped back to reality, it was already dark."
