Satarō inherits the prominent Iida-ya merchant family, occupying a respected position in Edo's social hierarchy due to his status and noted attractiveness. His engagement to Okano follows social convention, yet his affections shift toward Okō, co-manager of the Izumo-ya rental shop with her brother Seiji. When Okō proposes, Satarō vanishes without explanation the same day, initiating years of absence that leave both relationships unresolved.

This disappearance intertwines with the theft of the Iida-ya's valuable "Suou" incense burner. Investigations later expose Okano as the orchestrator, who stole it to pressure Satarō into their engagement—an act born of desperation that inadvertently prolonged his absence. Okano eventually expresses regret for the theft and its consequences.

Satarō resurfaces in Edo, reuniting with family and reentering Okō and Seiji's circle. His return prompts another disappearance to a pawn shop, where he seeks a specific incense burner to offer Okō and renew engagement prospects. This attempt traps him and his uncle accidentally in a storehouse until their rescue.

During the rescue, Okō’s visible distress and prioritization of Seiji’s safety clarify her lack of romantic feelings for Satarō. Witnessing this, Satarō accepts her choice and formally ends his pursuit. His uncle compensates Okō and Seiji financially, enabling them to settle debts threatening their business.

Satarō’s arc centers on tensions between familial duty and personal desire. His initial disappearance avoids these pressures, while his return represents a final confrontation with unresolved emotions. The resolution sees him relinquishing his romantic entanglement after acknowledging Okō's decision.