Watamaro followed the Retired Emperor Heijo, was captured, and confined in Saejifu (Left Division of the Palace Guards), however, he was saved by the appeal of SAKANOUE no Tamuramaro for saving his life.
平城上皇に従い捕縛され左衛士府に禁固されるが、坂上田村麻呂の助命嘆願により一命を助けられる。