Norimoto Isaoka emerged from Sugamo Prison after World War II to ascend as Secretary-General of Japan's long-dominant Liberal Democratic Party. He embodied the entrenched political establishment, prioritizing power retention through extensive networks of corruption and backroom deals. His leadership extended over the "70 Association," a cross-party coalition of older politicians dedicated to preserving their influence.

Isaoka perceived Chiaki Asami's reformist agenda, especially the proposal to amend Japan's pacifist Constitution (Article 9), as a direct threat to the existing power structure. Fearing increased public engagement from such a debate could shatter his party's control, he actively worked to suppress the amendment and block Asami's rise. He undermined opponents by leveraging financial scandals and exploiting personal affairs, utilizing deep connections within political and criminal circles, including ties to figures like Chairman Kawazu of the Domonkai yakuza syndicate.

Isaoka maintained a longstanding adversarial relationship with Asami, distrusting his ambition and perceiving him as a threat to the status quo. Despite his efforts, Isaoka ultimately resigned without reclaiming power. This decision came from realizing his own vision for Japan had become outdated against the transformative changes championed by the younger generation, implicitly allowing the protagonists' goals to advance.