Osaki ni Shitsurei Shiyasu

Inspired by Banzuiin Chobei, this song portrays the final day of the legendary machi-yakko leader as remembered through Japanese storytelling and kabuki tradition.
He knows the invitation may be a trap, yet he refuses to run.
It is not that he has no fear of death.
He simply cannot live with himself if survival means abandoning his principles.
At dusk, Chobei leaves Hanakawado behind and walks alone toward Mizuno's residence.
The familiar streets of Edo, the glow of lanterns, the smell of sake-
everything remains the same, even as he quietly walks toward a place from which he may never return.
"A man lives only once, but his name may live forever."
This is not a song about strength or victory.
It is about loyalty, dignity, and choosing to remain true to yourself until the very end.
And with one final phrase-
"Osaki ni shitsurei shiyasu."
"I'll be going ahead."