The intense heatwave blanketing the Japanese archipelago brought relentless sweltering temperatures even to the small rural village in the Tohoku region where the Tokine family lived. Tomori Tokine, a virtuous mother known throughout the local community, was raising her son alone and diligently carried out her daily chores, including wiping down the engawa porch. That day, she was performing her usual routine when her shy son, Masaru, approached from behind. Having withdrawn from school about half a year earlier, he had remained isolated from the outside world. Suddenly, hands reached out and groped her breasts. Startled, she pleaded, "No, Masaru... you mustn't," but her son did not stop. An unexpected touch that shook the mother's heart.