Hey guys! Noah here, and we have another Shenmue related story to share with you today. This is the sad tale of Haru Hirata.

Our story takes place in Dobuita, Japan.

An elderly lady named Haru Hirata lives alone in a lonely tobacco store she runs all by herself.

She's struggling with old age, cannot afford to ever retire and can barely survive the harsh coldness of winter.

Haru is almost 80 years old and most of her friends and loved ones have all passed on. Leaving her completely alone and struggling with poverty.

Haru is upset that she may be spending Christmas alone again this year as all of her friends who are still alive will be spending it with their families.

Will Haru be forced to accept the fact that she will be alone forever?

This is The Lonely Winter of Haru Hirata.



The wind howled through the narrow streets of Dobuita, carrying with it a bitter chill that cut through the thickest of coats. Haru Hirata shivered as she made her way down the street, clutching her scarf tightly to her face. The tobacco store was only a few blocks away, but each step felt like a struggle against the biting cold.

As she reached the door to the store, Haru paused for a moment and took a deep breath. She had been running this little shop for over fifty years, ever since her husband had passed away. It was a lonely existence, especially in the winter months when most people preferred to stay indoors. But Haru was determined to keep going, even as age and arthritis made every task more difficult.

She pushed open the door and stepped inside, feeling an immediate sense of relief as warmth washed over her. The small space was filled with shelves lined with cigarettes and cigars, along with various snacks and drinks. A counter stood at the back of the room, where Haru spent most of her time.

Haru set about lighting the kerosene heater in the corner of the room, struggling to get it started with her stiff fingers. After several failed attempts, she let out a frustrated sigh and slumped into a chair behind the counter.

"I'm getting too old for this," she muttered to herself.

Just then, there was a knock on the door. Haru looked up in surprise as it swung open to reveal a young woman standing outside.

"Hello? Is anyone here?" she called out.

Haru quickly composed herself and stood up from her chair.

"Yes, I'm here," she said, making her way towards the door. "Can I help you?"

The woman smiled warmly as she stepped inside.

"I hope so," she replied. "I've been looking for somewhere to buy some cigarettes."

Haru gestured towards the shelves, a sense of relief washing over her.

"Well, you've come to the right place. Take your pick."

As the woman browsed the selection, Haru couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude. The winter months were always difficult for her business, and every sale counted.

After selecting a pack of cigarettes, the woman made her way to the counter. As Haru rang up the purchase, she couldn't help but notice a small Christmas tree pin on the woman's coat.

"Are you getting ready for Christmas?" she asked curiously.

The woman nodded, a smile playing at the corners of her lips.

"Yes, I love this time of year. Spending time with family and friends, exchanging gifts... it's all so magical."

Haru felt a pang of sadness as she thought about how different her own Christmas would be. Most of her friends had passed away or moved away to be closer to their families. She hadn't spent Christmas with anyone in years.

"It sounds lovely," she said wistfully.

The woman looked at Haru with concern in her eyes.

"Don't you have anyone to spend Christmas with?"

Haru shook her head sadly.

"No, not anymore. It's just me and this old shop."

The woman reached out and placed a hand on Haru's arm.

"That's such a shame. No one should have to spend Christmas alone."

Haru smiled gratefully at the kind gesture but didn't say anything. She was used to being alone by now; it was just part of getting older.

As the woman gathered up her things to leave, she paused for a moment and looked at Haru thoughtfully.

"You know," she said slowly, "my family is coming into town for Christmas this year. We're renting a big house nearby, and there will be plenty of food and company."

Haru's heart skipped a beat as hope surged through her veins.

"I couldn't possibly impose," she said hesitantly.

The woman shook her head, a determined look on her face.

"It's not an imposition at all. In fact, it would be my honor to have you join us for Christmas dinner."

Tears welled up in Haru's eyes as she looked at the woman with gratitude.

"That is the kindest offer I've ever received. Thank you so much."

The woman smiled warmly and reached out to give Haru a hug.

"You're welcome. Consider it my way of spreading a little Christmas magic."

As Haru stood there, wrapped in the warmth of the woman's embrace, she couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. Maybe this Christmas wouldn't be so lonely after all.