They comprised the "Tensho mission" to Europe. More then 400 years ago, four excellent boys were chosen as the deputies of Christian feudal lords and sent on a journey to Europe to meet Pope Gregory 13th and Phillip 2nd.

Mere boys of 13 or 14 at their departure, they returned 8 years and 5 months later as fine young men, filled with knowledge of European culture and technology and the teaching to Christ.

But the Shogun Hideyoshi had bannend Christianity, so their struggle was only just beginning. Each of them fought courageously ~ and suffered greatly ~ for the sake of their forbidden beliefs.

Mancio Ito, the leader of the four, became exhausted trying to win converts, and died while still young.

Martino Hara had achieved such great fame as an intellect that his work could not be kept hidden from the authorities, he met his lonely death in exile on the island of Macau.

Michael Chijiwa, discouraged about the prospects of Christianity taking root in Japan, eventually renounced his faith.

And Julian Nakaura, who outlived the rest, managed to continue his missionary work, overcoming countless obstacles, and eventually achieving martyrdom.