Isawa Nosuriko was a beautiful young maiden who was engaged to Doji Kuwanan on the day of his gempukku. The night before their wedding however she hung herself in her chamber, leaving no note or reason. Kuwanan however believed the fault lay with Matsu Hiroru, his bitter rival from training with the Lion Clan. Hiroru had never relented in his advances towards the girl. Hiroru had begun the romantic liasion with Norusiko as a mission ordered by Akodo Kage. Hiroru was shocked by her death and confronted his master, fleeing after the event.