Original subtitles

At the end of the 19th century...

...a number of developed European countries invaded China.

In the 33rd year of Meiji (1900)...

...a local resistance called Giwadan rioted at the Santo province...

...and that movement grew and spread out from Tensing to Peking.

They besieged and attacked the embassies of the countries that invaded China.

So, soon Britain, the U.S., France, Russia, German, Italy, Austria...

...and Japan sent troops to China to defend their embassies.

After the Giwadan riot problem was settled...

...all the troops returned home, included the Japanese.

However, only the Russian troops remained at the chief ports of Manchu.

And moreover, they deployed more of their armed forces.

It was as if they were trying to take over Manchu.

We Japanese protested to Russia for retaining their troops in Manchu.

However in the end, negotiations were split.

Shortly after that, Russia began to ignore us.

Battle Of The Japan Sea

If Manchu and Korea were taken by Russia...

...our own safety would be threatened.

At this 100th anniversary of our empire...

January, 12th, 37th year of Meiji (1904) At this 100th anniversary of our empire...

January, 12th, 37th year of Meiji (1904)

January, 12th, 37th year of Meiji (1904) ...wasting no time, we had series of meetings.

...wasting no time, we had series of meetings.

The situation is about to get worse. The moment of truth has come.

We will need your decision quickly, your highness.

I believe that we have no choice but to bring forth a war against Russia.

Even if it costs our lives, we must ready for that.

No Japanese would want to wait around for Russia to take us down.

Hirohumi Ito No Japanese would want to wait around for Russia to take us down.

I agree, your highness.

Aratomo Yamagata I agree, your highness.

Aratomo Yamagata

Aratomo Yamagata We cannot expect Russia to be trustworthy anymore.

We cannot expect Russia to be trustworthy anymore.

If we don't make a move now, we will no longer be able to do anything.

They have a population of 400 million people...

...and, if they use their open-war policy...

...10 to 20 million soldiers would be ready by any time.

In addition, their naval strength is already enormous.

Only the Asian section of their troops is as huge as our entire millitary.

If they send all the troops they possess, it would be twice as large as ours.

We have to be truly determined.

Kaoru Inoue Yes, indeed.

Yes, indeed.

However, we can have our nation realize the situation we are in.

And we can look for help from other powerful countries.

Then, we perform what we have to do.

I will attempt to contact the Russian emperor again.

It will only be a displeasure both for Russia and Japan to sever our relationship.

You, too, must again seek their reply.

Should we conclude today's meeting now, your highness?

Yes.

Yamamoto...

Yes, sir.

Why did you switch the admiral of naval troops to Togo?

Heihachiro Togo is a very fortuned man.

Oh, is he?

I have found that he has an invincible fighting spirit and an amazing ability to focus.

Plus, he is discreet and nerves of steel.

Russia never answered Japan's diplomatic voice.

Japan is a country consists of a number of islands...

...so naval supremacy would be most important.

Needless to say, our navy must be strong.

In order to dominate the sea, we have to take the initiative...

We have to strike first.

Mr. Ito...

Our navy's been ready for this for so long.

Mr. Ito.

What do you think about how the people's mindset are?

Sound and very spirited.

After our war with China...

Because of Russia, France and Germany's daring intervention...

We lost the Liaodong peninsula, which we gained with so much blood of our people.

This is something we Japanese will never forget.

Are you reminding me of that intervention?

The desire of vengeance has been waiting...

...in every Japanese mind since then.

Especially in your mind.

Right after the intervention...

...the navy demanded 2 million yen for their budget...

...while the nation's entire budget was 800,000.

Don't you see?

At that time, the reason why we fight was...

...because of the lack of our naval strength.

Enough.

I never know when you stop your speech once you start.

Mr. Ito...

It would be all right for navy to make an immediate strike, wouldn't it?

Mr. Ito, we will defeat them in one fell swoop.

Are you sure that you can carry this out?

Yes, Mr. Ito, I am sure.

February, 5th

Now it's time for war...

Sasebo Naval Port

Flagship Mikasa

So, the Baltic Fleet is now in the Baltic Sea?

Yes.

If the war starts, they would take their way north.

They will come from the Atlantic Ocean via the Mediterranean Sea...

...through the Suez Canal to the Indian sea and finally to Japan.

But since Great Britain and Japan are on good terms...

I don't suppose that the Baltic fleet could pass through the Suez Canal so easily.

Then...

They would have detour through Cape Town.

Well, that's nearly impossible for a massive fleet like the Baltic Fleet.

I would say it's god's blessing that...

...the Russian fleets are split into the European and Asian squadrons.

Even that Asian squadron is split into two smaller units; Ryojun and Vladivostok.

Yes...

The initial subjective for us to achieve...

...would be try to annihilate the Asian squadrons.

The strategy is to capture Chinkai Bay...

...and safely transport our military supplies via the Korean Strait.

Mr. Kataoka, take this task with your 3rd fleet.

Then, what about the 2nd fleet?

Mr. Kamimura, there are plenty of other missions.

Well, that's true.

I'll be looking forward to those.

Russian Naval conference room, Ryojun

It was the day of Santa Maria Celebration.

Commanders of the Navy were invited by Lt. Admiral Stark.

Commander, we have urgent information:

The Japanese fleet has sailed into the Jensen Port with three transport ships...

...and their soldiers are moving in.

What!?

That night, the 2nd Japanese Fleet sailed into Port Jensen.

They ordered anchored Russian ships, Baliyark and Coleets, to pull away.

And then, awaiting Japanese ships routside of the port attacked those Russian ships.

February 9th, off Port Ryojun Meanwhile, the Japanese main fleet discovered a Russian fleet off the Ryojun Port.

Meanwhile, the Japanese main fleet discovered a Russian fleet off the Ryojun Port.

They engaged the Russian fleet and inflicted massive damage.

In this battle, a Russian battleship, Sesarwovich, and other three others were destroyed.

But Japanese ships were under fire from Russian artillery...

...and those that were attacked had suffered considerable damage.

Off Port Jensen

We were hit here too?

Three hits from the behind.

Admiral...

We've had many accusations for leaving the battlefield...

...immediately after the Ryojun Fortress began to cover their fleet.

Chief?

The navy won't fight against their forces on land.

I mean, we can't.

We must have our army fight and defeat the fortress at Ryojun.

But...

Staff Officer...

We have to fight against the Russian fleet that's twice as large as ours.

Twice as large...

Yes, the Baltic Fleet.

We cannot afford to have suffer damages from the Ryojun Fleet.

Our 2nd Fleet has been deployed to the Sea of Japan.

Have we heard anything from Kamimura?

Not yet so far, sir.

February 10th, north of the Japan Sea Russian ships Roshisha, Ryurick, and Grmboi from Vladivostok...

Russian ships Roshisha, Ryurick, and Grmboi from Vladivostok...

...appeared in the Sea of Japan and attacked Japanese ships.

The Second Fleet To take care of this problem,Togo had...

To take care of this problem,Togo had...

...Lt. Admiral Kamimura along with the battleship Izumo, five armored cruises...

...and two second-class cruisers, knowing the full risk of splitting naval power.

However, at this time in northern part of the Sea of Japan...

...it was very misty, with little visibility, so the 2nd Fleet wasn't able to engage them.

In order to destroy them all...

...we have to lure them out of Port Ryojun...

...but we've not be able to estimate the range of their artillery.

Now, in order to solve this problem...

Why not trap them inside the port, unable to leave?

To execute this plan...

...we need to sink a useless ship here and block the port...

Come in.

Sir.

I've just heard from Commander Arima.

We need you to explain the plan again.

Yes, Sir.

The length of the entrance of Port Ryujun is 270 meters...

Yet, only the length of 91 meter in the center allows larger ships to pass through.

The deepest part of the port is 16 meters.

So if we sink a ship there, Russian ships could no longer enter or exit at this port.

But in order to execute this plan, we have to be exposed to Russian artillery.

Yes.

Basically this is a suicide mission, isn't it?

No, Sir. We've prepared thoroughly for it.

We plan for everyone to come back alive.

Can this plan succeed?

If not, we'll make attempts until we do succeed.

Cmdr. Hirose...

Then we must make sure we succeed the first time around.

Yes, Sir!

Jensen Shore

This is a really old ship.

Sir, do you want to use this one?

I heard that we have over 2000 volunteers for this operation.

That's more than enough even if we make them go only once.

Will we perform this blockage operation several times?

It will be necessary to do it several times even if we are successful.

You were chosen for the second attempt, right Sugino?

Yes, Sir.

Commander?

Yes?

I heard that you had been to Russia as an officer for a long time.

And that you like Russia.

Yeah, I like Russia.

I have many Russian friends too.

And yet, you can still fight against them?

I am fighting as you can see.

Fighting is for my country, but friendship is still friendship.

There's a cat here.

I don't know if it lives here or is a stray...

But either way, we can't let it stay since we're going to sink this ship.

Yes sir. I'll go ahead and catch it.

Torashivanovich....

Why did you choose a Russian name like that?

Well, I love the story " Transibria" written by Gobori, so...

I heard that you've read so many different Russian books.

Not that many, but I like Pulshkin and Tolstoy.

You are peculiar as a soldier.

Mr. Akashi...

Do you think one country can completely conquer another by the use of war?

What do you mean?

If Japan wins the war and achieves peace...

Wouldn't many Russian literature enter Japanese culture?

If so, why does the culture from the defeated country come into the winning country?

Doesn't that mean a country cannot completely conquer another country?

That's what I meant.

I don't know about that.

But I see that you're saying you want to survive.

I'm saying that I want to see a post-war world.

Yet, aren't soldiers supposed to die when a war takes place?

You told me that you met the Boss of Shimizu long time ago, right?

Yes.

You told me that he said that in a fight, if opponent moved even a tiny bit...

...he would yell and spring upon the opponent.

And in a second, the fight would be over by those two moves.

Yes.

I think a war isn't much different from that.

I would die...

Commander?

Oh, you caught it.

Yes, but it's little weakened.

I see.

Major Akashi liked cats.

Major Akashi?

Major Akashi of the army.

He was also at the Japanese Embassy in Petersburg.

Assigned to some kind of special mission.

I wonder how he's doing.

He's a very fascinating person.

February, 20th

The first ship for the blockage operation was fired upon and sunk...

...by Russian artillery before it reached the destination.

The plan failed.

Admiral...

The first squadron of our army has landed on Jinan.

Oh, so they have.

If our army closes in on Ryojun from behind, we can cause them much damage.

But before that, we have to make sure that the enemy can't escape to Vladivostok.

By the way, the Russian fleet in Vladivostok is still freely dominating the Sea of Japan.

What is the 2nd Fleet doing?

Well, Kamimura's mission is considerably difficult.

Moreover, he doesn't have our army's support.

Cmdr. Hirose, what is it?

I came here to ask for your permission.

For what?

I will swear we will successfully execute the operation this time...

So allow me to be aboard with them.

I swear we will carry it out this time.

Please.

March, 27th

You're here.

What are you writing, Sir?

It says:

"Respected Russian soldiers...

"I'm Japanese Cmdr. Takeo Hirose.

"We've come here twice already to block this Port Ryojun.

"We will continue so until the port is blocked."

Why did you write something like this?

Well, when peace comes...

The Russians may fish up this ship, the Fukuimaru, and my friends might read this.

You are talking about after Japan's victory, sir?

Yes.

I am now doing my dumbest for Japan's victory.

I wonder after the war, what kind of conversation my Russian friends and I would have?

Cmdr., aren't you being prepared for death?

Fool!

We will return after the success of this operation.

We will come back alive.

Do not forget that.

Sugino, promise me that.

Yes, Sir!

What? The Yakushimaru!?

Stop the engine!

Drop the anchor!

Sugino, go set off the fire.

Yes, Sir.

Get the boat ready!

Everyone, to the boat!

Ensign Ishii!

Ensign Ugi!

Ensign Tsunami

Ensign Hirano!

Ensign Yamamoto!

Ensign Kobayashi!

Ensign Hiramoto!

Ensign Matsushita!

Ensign Nakajo!

Ensign Tada!

Senior Chief Petty Officer Sugino?

Senior Chief Petty Officer Sugino?

Sugino!?

Is he not here!?

Commander?

Everyone stay here. I'll go back and look for him.

Sugino!

Sugino!

Sugino!

Cmdr., come back!

Come back on the board, sir!

Sugino!!

Now go, leave!

Cmdr., were you able to find out what happened to Sugino?

I don't know...

I looked for him in the entire ship, but...

Cmdr., would you come back again to carry out this operation?

I'll come back until we succeed.

Cmdr.?

Even after the second attempt...

...the enemy fleet easily sailed out from the port between the sunken ships.

Consecutively, we made an attempt for the third time...

...yet, it was again not quite successful.

Meanwhile, in the beginning of May...

The First Japanese army unit crossed the Koryoku Sea...

...and advanced towards Castle Ho-oh.

In following days, the 2nd unit landed on the Liaodong Peninsula.

The 3rd fleet of navy, which was guarding the 2nd unit of army...

...committed a series of strange incidences in the thick fog from May 12 - 17.

On May 12th, the torpedo boat, Tsuhotei, was sunk by a mine.

On the 15th, our first-class cruise, Kasuga, and second-class Yoshino, colladed.

Consequently, the Yoshino sank.

And...

And?

Yes, Sir.

On the very same day...

Battleships, Hase and Yoshima, both struck mines, and were shipwrecked...

On 17th, auxiliary vessel, Oshima, collided with the Akagi... then went down.

The destroyer, Akatsuki, by hit a mine and sank.

Seven ships in six days.

We've lost one-third of our main fleet.

What a terrible fate, one after another...

Yes, Sir.

There's more.

And?

As a result, now the Russian navy outnumbers our us by 6 to 4.

Understood.

Here is the irremovable plan:

To defeat the Pacific squadrons of the Russian navy, repair and re-supply all of our ships...

...then, face the Baltic Fleet.

That is absolutely right.

Until we face the Baltic Fleet, we weren't supposed to lose any of our ships...

Yet, we already have had considerable damage.

If the Baltic Fleet shows up with the Vladivostok Fleet still striking about us...

...we are going to face the enemy fleets on our own frontyard.

Come in.

Here is a telegraph from the army.

The 3rd unit of army led by Admiral Nogi began landing from Dalian Bay, Sir.

Oh. They finally started.

Now it won't take long for them to get to Ryojun.

The fall of Ryojun is pending now.

No...

It won't go easy at all.

The garrison and the fortress at Ryojun are taking advantage of the terrain.

That makes it much harder to defeat them.

Admiral Nogi would have a difficult time there.

But regardless, we have to have them conquer Ryojun before the Baltic Fleet arrives.

Some people say that the Baltic Fleet won't even come at all, though.

The Baltic Fleet will come. They will definitely come.

If so, we will have a tough confrontation with our 2nd Fleet deployed in the Sea of Japan.

June, 13th. The Sea of Genkai. The Second Fleet

Somehow, we can't capture them.

We do have information that Gromboi and Ryuric are attacking us around here.

I guess we don't have luck.

Staff officer...

Do you want me to say what you are refraining to say?

What is it, Sir?

What is Kamimura doing?

You have heard people saying I have betrayed Japan and made a deal with Russians, right?

Officer Sato also has heard about it, haven't you?

Yes, Sir.

But no matter what people say, I have to wait until we spot the enemy...

...because if I leave the ship, I am no use.

The army troopship, Hitachimaru...

...fully loaded with 1095 soldiers of the 5th, 6th, & 7th guardsman units...

...320 war horses and other important units of heavy weaponry.

It left Port Ujina with the fishing ship, Sadomaru.

June, 15th It left Port Ujina with the fishing ship, Sadomaru.

Mr. John Campbell, a British man, intended to cooperate with Japan...

...and voluntarily became the captain of the Hitachimaru.

But, at 7:00 AM, when they reached the Sea of Genkai...

But in reality, it was that the Russian ships...

...Roshisha, Gromoboi, & Ryuric from Vladivostok Fleet firing at our troopship Izumimaru.

Oh, that ship!

Port!

It's still follwing us!

We've spotted something, probably Russian ships.

Commander, I'm here with a report: We've found something ahead, most likely Russian ships.

What!?

Captain Yamamoto, get everyone ready, and fire back.

Yes sir.

Get ready and fire!

Oh, where is the captain!?

Campbell is British.

We must help him out of here!

I will go find him, sir.

Special print! Special print!

Hitachimaru struck down!

What were the guard ships doing!?

That's right!

For the sunken Hitachimaru, we cannot possibly be more furious.

The consensus of Japan is ruffled and our voice will reached Kamimura in the Sea of Japan.

All the anger of people for this matter aimed at Kamimura and his fleet that was patrolling the area.

I see.

The sunken Hitachimaru was all my fault, huh?

And that was the motivation for people to hurl rocks into my house.

But everything is okay.

My wife is a foot-on-the-earth type of woman, and loves me so much.

Don't worry, staff officer.

I understand that people are angry at me since I couldn't defeat the Vladivostok Fleet.

And just stay here.

Staff officer, how about a drink?

Not for me, sir.

All right. What about you men?

No, thank you, sir.

If you don't drink, just leave the room.

Everyone, go away!

Even though our situation here is tight enough to call Kamimura back, we cannot.

Kamimura has to beat the Vladivostok Fleet.

And he will.

But, sir.

Staff officer, we are soon going to have help from our army squadrons.

Mr. Nogi will attack the Ryujun from the land.

Ryojun, Japanese cannon site

The Third Unit on the Front Line

Against the Russian troops in a sturdy fortress with the machine guns that Japanese had never seen...

...and a number of other effective heavy weapons...

...Japanese soldiers were too exposed and lost over 15,000 soldiers.

Were the first and second ground troops completely destroyed?

Yes, sir.

In addition, the night attack to Higashi Kourei at Mt. Anrei failed as well.

Military commander...

Because of our huge lose...

Captain Tsuchiya of the 11th division suggested to change the plan in his letter.

Namely, any fortress is built sturdiest at front.

We might want to change our standard strategy...

And think about a new strategy?

Yes, sir.

I disagree. No matter how invincible the fortress is...

The enemy can't supply necessary materials to the soldiers inside.

But it's possible for us.

The standard strategy is the best way.

But... if we keep losing many soldiers...

Commander, you might...

The Commander shall not be a mere human!

Staff officer, what do you mean by that?

Captain Tsunoda...

It means that if Commander Nogi were only a person who worry about a huge loss...

...we couldn't conquer Ryojun.

Commander...

You have promised to Admiral Togo...

...that you would conquer Ryojun by August.

Major Yamaoka.

Yes.

Give my order to Captain Tsuchiya of the 11th division...

Go charge with their full ability as we planned...

...without any second thoughts of getting annihilated.

Inform Admiral Togo immediately.

Yes, Sir.

We've just heard from Colonel Akashi at the legation in Stockholm.

The Baltic Fleet was ready to leave as the 2nd fleet of Pacific Ocean.

However, their destination is still not clear.

Admiral, the Russian ships inside the port attempt to break out of our siege.

It's because they have no choice but to fight their way, I guess.

Right, it's because Commander Nogi has started attacking from their behind.

Yes.

Admiral, I'm here to give the sortie order.

August 10th Admiral Togo led out only four battle ships and two armed cruisers...

Admiral Togo led out only four battle ships and two armed cruisers...

...to face the entire Russian Ryojun Fleet...

...which were six battle ships, two armed cruisers, and six cruisers.

This was the opening of a sea fight.

The Russian fleet was heading south-east in two lines.

Japanese fleet went from east to west and entered the battlefield...

...showing the sides of the ships to the enemy.

So that while the Russian fleet could only shoot from the chief cannons of the front two ships

Togo's fleet could utilize all the main cannons and half of the sub cannons of every ship.

That was Togo's diligent plan.

Togo tried to attract the enemy who was facing south east to the center of the battlefield...

...and turned Japanese ships 90 degree to the left all at once.

But the Russian ships kept going to the south east.

Although the Japanese fleet made full effort to catch them...

The Russian fleet was afraid to be caught and kept going south east...

...while constantly firing.

So the Japanese fleet ended up chasing the Russian fleet from their behind.

Go! Go!

At full speed.

Onward!

What's the distance?

8500 meters. Gradually getting closer.

In the end, out of the more than ten ships in the Russian fleet...

the flagship Szaruwhich was badly damaged and bearly reached to Qingdao...

Other survived ships came back to Ryojun.

The Japanese learned how difficult it could be to chase down a fleet that you couldn't catch.

And this experience helped a lot the Japanese in later sea battles.

On October 15th, in the cheering of several thousand Russian people and Nikolai the Second...

the Baltic fleet left the naval port of snowy Libau...

...as the 2nd fleet of Pacific Ocean, heading to the Far East.

The Baltic Fleet

Admiral Rozhestvensky was trusted by Nickolai II and well-known as a great commander.

Staff officer, when can we conquer Ryojun?

How would I know?

But as long as Ryojun is in Russia's hand, we can't move from here.

If the Baltic fleet comes before Ryojun falls, what will happen?

Do you think we can fight?

It's taking quite a long time to conquer Ryojun.

They had promised complete the mission by August.

It is a difficult fight.

But Admiral, almost every single ship needs to be repaired...

We also need to give all our crews some rest.

What is the army doing?

Are they thinking about the navy at all?

Staff officer.

Let us send some of our gunnery units to the army.

But we've already sent some...

Send as many as we can manage.

We cannot just let Nogi and his troops die.

Yes, Sir.

The White Sash Unit shall defeat the enemy base around the 4th cannon site at Mount Shoju.

Then advance to the Yokato and south upland...

...and if possible, capture the Mount Hakugyoku. That is the mission.

At this fortress which Russians think is invincible...

...we've been charging and losing a lot of our fellow soldiers.

Now...

...with your strong resolution...

I'm truly proud that this White Sash Unit was formed.

I assume that you are ready to not come back alive.

With your mind hard as rocks, I hope for you carry out the mission.

Now, let us turn around to the imperial Palace.

Do you have a family?

Yes. Mother and a younger brother. Sir.

Did you tell them that you were chosen to this death squad?

Yes, sir. I mailed to them, sir. But...

What is it? What do you have in your mind?

Don't be reluctant to speak.

Yes, Sir.

My family is really poor.

My mother is sick, and my brother is still in a third grade.

You were the only one to work?

Yes, Sir.

Therefore, beside my salary, I washed my fellows' shirts for a cent for each shirt...

...and saved every cent I made.

But we soldiers cannot send money to Japan.

That's banned by rule.

But I hope I can send this money to my family.

If I don't, my family is going to be in trouble.

What is your rank?

Yes Sir, I am Junior Infantry, Maeyama Sankichi.

All right. Maeyama...

I'll take that money.

I promise that I will send this money to your mother.

Thank you very much, Sir. I appreciate it.

Sir, it's time to leave.

Yes.

White Sash Unit, prepare to depart!

Bid farewell to the Commander!

Bow!

Turn right!

Go!

We are fighting with our full ability now.

Yet, Ryojun is still steady.

Highness, I suggest to change the commander of the 3rd squadron.

Your Highness.

Do you believe in Nogi that strongly?

Commander, please!

They're aiming at you, Commander!

Commander, do you want to die?

Are you going to let the enemy kill you?

You dying won't change the situation, sir. Please stop.

Commander, we have Admiral Togo visiting.

He came from Dailian and he's waiting at headquarters.

Mr. Nogi.

Hello.

Mr. Nogi, I've heard that two of your sons have died in battle.

Yes. I hope they had honorable death for our country.

Please, Mr. Togo.

I assume that the navy's in trouble...

...since we haven't taken Ryojun yet.

Well, but it seems to be about to defeat them now.

I'm very sorry. I apologize.

No. I know that you've been doing your best.

We are thankful for that. Honestly.

Mr. Togo...

I've had so many soldiers die.

And yet, we haven't...

Not only here, we navy have lost so many lives too...

Everyone is willing to die for the country, but...

Mr. Nogi, I heard the enemy's fortress is very stout.

May I see it?

Admiral, yourself?

Sure.

I see.

It is as difficult as I heard.

Mr. Togo, I heard that those binoculars were made in Germany.

Yes. These are very high-quality. Here.

Mr. Nogi, there are many ships sunk in the port.

Yes. That's because we've borrowed the navy's cannons.

Well, cannons don't fire automatically.

It's men who fire those cannons.

They are the army's guns too, right?

Mr. Nogi, if the cannon hit a target perfectly, that's all man's credit.

Yeah.

Mr. Nogi, is there any message from you for your wife?

For Shizuko?

Yes. I'm relieved today by finding enemy's vessels sunk in the port.

I've decided to send our ships and crew back to Japan to let them have some rest.

I will also return to Japan for a short while with our flagship Mikasa.

Everything will be fine.

Mr. Nogi, I understand your trouble and weariness, but for our country...

I will count on you.

Yes. With your word, I can carry this out.

I will carry this out.

The Main Fleet had no choice but to go back to Japan for repairs, resupplying...

...and rest before the Baltic fleet shows up.

For that reason, Togo went to see Ryojun...

But moreover, today, Nogi and Togo understood each other perfectly.

Captain, we were heavily damaged.

Yes, sir.

When I suppose if the cannonballs we used were made with Shimose gunpowder...

That ship would have been sunk deep in the ocean right now.

The gunpowder would cause a fire, and collapse the upper structure...

...so consequently, the ship would have no ability to fight.

Is this the meaning of " the believer will be saved" saying that you use?

No, when I say " the believer will be saved"...

I mean " to be modest even after a victory in a battle."

It is?

Namely, it's the people who fight...

But there is a limit in human ability.

So, what I mean by that phrase is that modesty is needed to win a battle...

So...

Admiral...

At Libau port, the Russians are organizing the 3rd fleet with Captain Nebogatov.

If that is true, their naval strength will be even more enormous.

Where did you hear that from?

From Colonel Akashi in Stockholm, sir.

Stockholm

I think so.

If you're not ready for death, no one can ever take yourjob.

It's been a while.

Hirose, who said he would survive, has died already...

...and I'm here still alive.

Hirose once told me a story...

...which he heard from the Boss of Shimizu, that a fight is over in a moment;

Just to stare in opponent's eyes, and if he moves, just spring onto him.

That's it.

However, my job isn't quite like that.

I see that yourjob requires much endurance without being recognized.

Spying on enemy's operations...

...and assist revolutionary groups within Russia.

Enlarging the defying power within Russia will work advantageously for Japan.

Mr. Akashi, isn't it comfortable to work here in Sweden?

Since Swedes are in favor of the Japanese.

But I still need to go out to other areas of Europe in order to collect information.

For now, information on the Baltic Fleet.

Mr. Akashi...

Because of the alliance between Japan and Britain...

...Russian ships are unable to sail through the Suez Canal.

Hence...

They would have to go like this.

The passage after that, and how many days it takes for them to arrive in East.

I imagine Mr. Togo is so eager to know that information.

It's time. In case I don't come back, please take care of her.

The person with Akashi is Siriusk, from one of the Russian revolutionary groups.

Today, Siriusk provided Akashi much information about Kokasasu movement...

...and Poland's standby military.

Akashi in exchange gave money to Siriusk for Russian revolutionary politicians.

Siriusk introduced Akashi to a Russian officer, who needed money to free his wife.

Akashi decided to make a deal with this officer for information on the Baltic Fleet.

As I just said...

The Baltic Fleet is coming...

...which is a great opportunity for us.

Togo and I both mutually think so, and we've waited a long time for this.

But, when and where will we confront the Baltic Fleet?

As for that matter...

We will gather as much information as we can, then we'll study and determine thoroughly.

We will come up with the best plan.

Though, the enemy will do the same thing thoroughly as we do.

So we cannot be sure if they do as we expect.

What if they outwit us?

We can do nothing then.

We can do nothing?

We need to leave that kind of anxiety out, otherwise our fleets won't work effectively.

Only we have immovable resolution.

Your Highness, we will shatter the Baltic fleet altogether.

You were very daring, Admiral.

You said, " We will beat them", instead of " We can beat them".

Did I?

If you fail, you'll be "relived of duty."

By the way, it is a trouble that Ryojun is still there.

I'm not worry about that.

What?

Mr. Nogi will take care of that.

Fire! Fire!

203 Plateaus

Celebrate! Ryojun has fallen!

But the war wasn't over yet.

Paris

Really, Lenin did say that?

Yes.

The fall of Ryojun would accelerate the downfall of the Russian empire, so this war is a big step.

Yes. So, Mr. Akashi, you do understand.

No, I don't.

Then, here.

I met Lenin at Jenev. I noticed that he had an urge to buy anything he wanted.

He said to himself that he was a spendthrift.

Really? He doesn't have money in his pocket.

He said, from time to time, his mother sent some money to him...

...and also he wanted to watch a musical with his mother in Moscow.

By the way, the money to buy the Shojugomanjo in Finland...

The Japanese government will pay for you instead.

Seriously?

Absolutely. When shall I give you the money?

Here, at 8 o'clock tonight.

I will bring two more fellow workers.

Understood.

But Mr. Akashi, Japan has to slow down to win this war.

How come?

We are not yet ready for a revolution.

I see.

The revolutionary power in Russia is split in many groups.

You'd better start uniting into one.

And... make sure you give me as much information of the Baltic fleet.

Yes. I will.

Also, be careful not to be followed by the Russian military police.

I've heard that they are here in Paris too.

Yes. I'm sure I'm not followed.

He escaped from the window!

On February 14, 1938...

The Russian 2nd fleet, led by Admiral Rozhestubensky...

...joined with the later-departed ships at the Nossi-be port of Madagascar.

Meanwhile, Admiral Nebogatoff of the 3rd fleet also left the port Libau.

Kuki Privy Counsel Adviser's Office Mr. Togo, the Baltic Fleet seems to have come over the Pacific Ocean and pass the Soya channel...

Mr. Togo, the Baltic Fleet seems to have come over the Pacific Ocean and pass the Soya channel...

...then get to the Vladivostok.

I heard in the Privy Counsel that the information is from Col. Akashi in Paris.

What do you think, Mr. Togo?

My belief is different.

I don't think they'll make their way to Soya channel.

But...

After a long sailing, I believe their seaway is slowed due to their equipped firearms...

...so it is doubtful that they take a detour.

Besides there is the matter of fuel.

Then, they're going to come to the Tsushima Straits?

Well, I guess you can't mention anything now.

In the first place, it was said that the Baltic fleet wouldn't come here to the other side of the world.

Nevertheless, I always believed that they would come.

We've figured out that it is feasible for them to come, according to the data we've studied.

According to the data.

Yes.

Mr. Togo...

If the Japanese fleet...

What?

I am reluctant to utter this but...if...

I've never thought of losing.

That's when Japan will die.

How can I possibly think of it.

Greeting sir.

Thanks for having me over.

Is it time to go?

Yes.

Hello.

I just put the money in.

I heard.

I don't know where you come from everyday.

Do you live around here?

Not so close by.

Have you gotten a letter from your daughter in the countryside?

Yes, ma'am.

She wrote that all the cows had been taken by the government...

...will soon be made into canned beef and shipped to soldiers.

But then your daughter can no longer be a farmer.

Exactly.

I guess people who make those canned beef would make good money out of it.

If I remember correctly, your daughter's husband was in army?

Yes. My daughter has two little kids.

Ma'am, may I offer incense?

Sure. Please.

Ma'am, I heard that Mr. Togo is about to begin an enormous fight.

Yes. Rumor says that Russia's massive fleet is heading for Japan.

So then, there will be many many more soldiers who die for this war like my son.

Thank you so much.

Ma'am, how is this man, who just offered incense for my son?

Well, he looked quite aged.

Kiku, wait for me!

He seemed to want to say something to you...

...but he couldn't because his heart aches.

Really?

A few days later, the Japanese Fleet gathered their ships into Chinkai bay and started training.

Good. Really good.

They trained for every situation, such as attacking, counterattacking, night fighting, firing torpedoes.

Every sailor learned all about their equipment.

Togo conducted this training himself.

Subsequently, they had used about a year's worth of ammunition in this intense training.

Togo was there all the time despite rain and wind, along with his lunch box.

This was the first time in Japanese history that an Admiral spent this much time for training.

Firstly, we have to know the names of enemy ships.

Their damn names are so freakish and hard to remember.

The ships of this figure are the battleships called " Knijajiswaloff".

Remember it as " Kuninooyajiswaro"...

Imagine your fathers saying "let's sit and have some drink".

Okay, say it.

" Kuninooyajiswaro".

Good.

This is a battleship, " Alexander lll":" Akiresanta".

" Akiresanta".

This is a battleship " Borchino":" Borodero".

Russians always screw up.

" Borodero"

This is a battleship " Sebelski":" Usuipriki".

" Usuipriki"

This is a cruiser " Domitri Dofskoy"

" Gomitorikoroske".

This is another cruiser " Izmrude"

" Izumoruzo"

Good.

Frankly, my command will be...

" Aim at Akiresanta!

"Fire!" Do you understand?

Yes, I understand, sir.

Good, then let's go over again.

What is this?

" Kuninooyajiswaro"

The flagship "Swalov"

I've been doing a lot of thinking on this matter, and conclusively...

I think that going around the Pacific and getting to the Channel Soya is the best splan.

If we take a rout to the Pacific Ocean...

We ought to pass through the Channel Tsugaru with some firing and browbeat the Japanese shore.

I think, the best idea is that we should attack Taiwan at once and build a stronghold.

Then, slowly travel in to Vladivostok.

Meanwhile, with Major General Kato as the new staff officer...

...as the former officer Shimamura became the Commander of the 2nd fleet...

...the Japanese Main Fleet also has been having discussions about the Baltic Fleet.

Well, I've observed a variety of things since I was assigned as a staff officer here...

....but this Russian Captain Rozhestvensky is quite experienced, especially in a war of attrition.

Yeah, nonetheless, we haven't heard about the Baltic Fleet for a while.

Since Ryojun has fallen, some say that the Baltic Fleet turned around and went back to Port Libau.

It would not be reasonable for them to come all here since their Ryojun Fleet has been annihilated.

A couple of weeks ago, they tried to distract us with four fake cruisers right off the shore of Japan.

So, we can never know what they will do.

That's right.

But I get antsy when nothing happens for such a long time.

Is it done?

Long time no see.

Everybody's here. Did I interrupt a meeting?

No, it's just finished.

See you later.

I'm back from setting up 750 mines at Vladivostok.

Thank you.

You seem healthy.

Yes. After we beat the Ryuric with your help, my physical condition has gotten better too.

Please come with me.

Mr. Togo, you seem to be worried about something.

Do I look so?

Your belief that the Baltic Fleet will show up at the Tsushima straits hasn't been shaken, has it?

No, it hasn't.

Both Soya and Tsugaru are covered by thick fog...

...so it's almost impossible for a huge fleet to maneuver through there.

Besides there is a chance for their own ships to collide one another.

That's true.

There is also the problem of fuel.

Plus, the Baltic Fleet is in a hurry, they won't take an unproductive detour.

My belief is based on all the possible studies.

It is no way a long shot gamble.

Then, what's the matter?

It's the radio.

A radio?

Yes.

The Japanese radio is still not so stable.

So I'm concerned if it works well when the Baltic Fleet shows up at the Tsushima straits.

I see.

I guess anything can be a problem.

But I am quite fortunate.

Yeah, unlike me.

Mr. Togo, you'll be all right.

Come in.

Admiral, we've just received telegram from Colonel Akashi in Paris.

What's it about?

The rout of the Baltic Fleet. According to Akashi, it all depends on Rozhestvensky's decision.

I see.

Then, there is no way they are going to come to Tsugaru. Definitely.

Admiral Nebogatov, we've finally sailed 18,000 nautical miles.

This is historical simply as a voyage record.

Let's avoid night time sailing from now on.

I despise Japanese torpedo boats.

Japanese are very loyal and not afraid to die, but we have a blessing of our highness.

Once we win the naval supremacy, it's our game.

Japanese Fleets are nothing; we are going to smash them as once.

We are going to represent the glory of Russian empire to the whole world.

Barbarians!

Togo's preparation for this sea war was spotless.

For example, he put six little boats with wooden cannons appeared south sea of Taiwan.

They were decoys to deceive Russians.

In addition, he placed so many ships on watch in the sea.

And built about 300 observatories from Chishima to Okinawa, Taiwan, and Korea.

The Cape of Soya And ordered watch non-stop.

And ordered watch non-stop.

The Cape of Erimo

The Cape of Inuboe

The Cape of Ashizuri

The Five Archipelagos of Tamanoura

However, there was no word of finding the Baltic Fleet.

Nago, Okinawa However, there was no word of finding the Baltic Fleet.

However, there was no word of finding the Baltic Fleet.

Yes.

What are you up to?

Admiral, it's already May 25th, and yet, we have no information about Baltic Fleet

Since we lost track of them on May 14th at the Bay of Kamura.

The distance from the Bay of Kamura to the Tsushima straits is only 1850 nautical miles.

I'm afraid that...

We are supposed to know by today when and where the Baltic Fleet is traveling.

So what?

Admiral, the data we've studied can be wrong...

and " Believers will be saved" is just to mean " rely on others' help", so...

Staff Officer, We have no choice but to wait.

It's not that the Baltic Fleet disappeared from the sea.

I am not going to change my belief yet.

I understand. I'm sorry to doubt you.

Staff Officer, wait.

I know what you have in your mind.

May 19th, we received information from the trading ships that were attacked by the Baltic Fleet.

Isn't that so?

Yes, sir.

From that point, you suppose that the Baltic Fleet has gone north to the Tsugaru straits...

...or through the south-west archipelago and gotten to the Tsushima straits...

...don't you?

Regardless...

You think that the Baltic Fleet has already reached Vladivostok without being noticed...

...by observatories whether through the Japan sea or the Tsugaru straits in a dark at night.

You all think so. Isn't that right!?

Admiral.

What is it?

I've never seen you like that.

What?

You, so upset...

Only you. Only you've seen me like this.

Staff Officer, I want you to bring this to the captains of each ship.

Yes, sir.

Admiral!?

Why don't you read it out loud once?

Now.

Yes, sir.

By May 28th, if Russian Fleet doesn't show up...

...all the ships hurry your way to the Tsugaru straits.

Admiral, if this really happens, what's going to happen to the Japanese Fleet...

What's going to happen to... Japan?

Are you asking me to say it?

Admiral.

But in any case, we must do our utmost.

Yes. I will carry this to all ships.

When is the invocation day of the order, sir?

I will command in following days.

May 26

Admiral Rozhestvensky ordered the route to north 50 degrees east.

He rejected other officers' suggestions and decided to make his way through the Tsushima straits.

The shortest rout to Vladivostok.

Hey, what the hell is that?

Is that a haze or clouds?

Where?

Hey, those are ships!

A lot of battleships!

Yeah, they seem to me a number of battleships too, but...

The enemy!

The enemy!

Hey, let's go tell the officer at Island Miyako!

All right, let's go!

So, frankly, we have enormous Russian ships...

...passing right by our island to the direction of north-east.

Isn't that some kind of mistake?

Well, according to these fishermen here, this is a fact.

But we don't have the means to inform the government.

The closest telegram office is in Ishigaki Island.

And we have to get there as soon as possible.

It's a long way.

That's right.

It's nice weather today, but the waves are rough.

I know. But we have to send out a ship with some crew.

We don't know if we can get to Ishigaki within 24 hours, or the Russians might find the ship...

...so we have to send the fastest ship on this island.

This is the most urgent matter of Japan now.

Everybody knows that, right?

What are you?

I'm going to row a boat.

What a cursory.

I haven't asked for voluntaries yet.

What are you voluntaries too?

I'm going too.

Wait. This is too many.

The ship can only bear five people.

Hey, why don't you drop this?

You've just got married, and she already has a baby in her belly.

So what!? I'm going.

Darling!

What did you come up here for?!

You can't stop me. You can't stop me. Go back.

Stop that! Why are you crying!?

Because I'm happy.

What?

You volunteered to go, so I let you go. It's your decision.

I've never been more proud of you than now.

Really?

I have a wonderful husband.

And I'll tell our baby that his father was really brave.

These brave young guys rowed 28 hours non-stop.

Meanwhile, Shinanomaru was patrolling at 30 nautical miles north-west of the five island archipelagos...

2:45AM on 27th Meanwhile, Shinanomaru was patrolling at 30 nautical miles north-west of the five island archipelagos...

...in latitude 33 degrees 10' and longitude E 128 degrees 10'.

Captain, I see something like a flame.

Captain, the flame seems to be sending a signal to us.

What does it mean...

That's a hospital-ship

They forgot to put the flame out.

Captain, they mistake us as one of their own ships, so they are sending a signal

Let's deceive them. Stop the ship to the left.

Stop the ship to the left.

Captain! There!

Captain, that's the Baltic Fleet.

We must telegram this.

Get closer!

I don't care if it's dangerous. We must find out here they are heading.

Move at full speed.

Move at full spead!

Ishigaki Island

The telegraph from Miyako Island arrived one hour later than that of the Shinanomaru.

I read the telegraph.

We find the Baltic fleet at the point 4.5.6., the Shinanomaru.

The Shinanomaru.

Yes, sir.

The Baltic Fleet seems to be heading to the Suido.

I see...

All fleets sortie.

May 27, 6:34AM, Chinkai Bay

After finding the enemy fleet, the Japanese fleets immediately sortied, intending to strike them down. It's a clear sky but the waves are high today.

The Baltic fleet turned to north 23degrees east at the 12 nautical miles north from Iki.

And headed straight to the Vladivostok.

It was the memorial day of the accession of Nicholai II.

Um... The Admiral's sword is a problem.

It'll wreck the magnetic compass.

But it's the " Ichimonji Yoshifusa" given directly from Crown Prince...

...and he cherishes it as a keepsake.

And it's the day of the key battle.

I wouldn't want to say " Sir, it's a problem".

It's okay, sir.

All we need from the compass is to know the direction of the enemy.

After that, I'll do with my eyes.

Really, you don't need a compass any longer.

Captain, do you think we can beat the half of the enemy?

That's a huge success if we can beat the half of them.

Though, we will lose our half too.

That's about right.

What are you talking about, you two?

The Baltic fleet will be obliterated.

We must destroy them all together.

Yes, sir.

Report for the Admiral! The enemy fleet spotted ahead!

Everyone in place! Everyone in place!

Everyone, do not leave your place!

Whether your country flourishes or deteriorates all depends on this battle. Everyone must work hard.

It was on May 27th, at 1:55.

Admiral, please get in to the commanding tower.

No, I can't observe very well from there.

Admiral, we have to make sure you are safe.

Please go to the tower.

No, here is fine. Here is fine.

But there is no bullet shield here.

Admiral, you're too important.

You guys are more important.

You are young, so we need you to work for our country longer time.

You should get into the tower. I'll stay here.

At this point, the distance from the enemy ships was 8000 meters.

When everyone was waiting for the order to fire...

Captain, left rudder.

Left rudder?

Left rudder!

Left rudder!

This was the " Togo maneuver"...

...charging the head of the enemy fleet, receiving minimal damage while inflicting critical damage.

He knew from the lesson he learned from the opening sea battle...

...that it would be impossible to catch them again if he let them slip out at the present opportunity.

The enemy ships did not miss this opportunity and started firing at once.

Have the 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th fleets been in the planned position yet?

Yes, sir. As we planned, they got to the behind of the enemy fleet.

We haven't fired yet?

No, we haven't gotten the order from the Admiral yet.

But...

Probably when we get to the positions surrounding the enemy ships...

Not yet, sir?

Calm down. We'll receive the order to fire soon.

Yes, sir.

What's the distance from enemy?

7500 meters!

Not yet?

Distance?

7000 meters.

Distance now?

6400 meters.

It's time. Start firing!

2:10PM

Fire!

2nd cannon ready! - Fire!

Hurry and put out the fire.

Aim and fire at the Mikasa!

The barrage of the Baltic Fleet only made a number of high water splashes.

Eventually they lost count of which water splash was which target, and couldn't adjust the sight.

Meanwhile, the Japanese Fleets were communicating by signals, informing each other's position.

4-5-0

Distance 4500 meters, start firing.

Distance 4500 meters.

The 1st fleet, turn left at once.

The 1st fleet, turn left at once.

Command! The 1st fleet, turn left at once.

Left rudder!

Admiral, are you still not go into the commanding tower?

No.

Admiral! Are you all right?

Staff Officer, if I'm to die, I'll die regardless where I am.

The Japanese fleets ordered all the ships to turn around...

...and get in a way of any Russian ship trying to maneuver out to Vladivostok.

The range is too long! Set it accurately!

The Baltic Fleet was using the black gunpowder...

...after 5 or 6 shooting, they were covered in thick smoke and had to wait firing until it became clear.

They were covered in thick smoke and had to wait firing until it became clear.

Hey, are you all right?

Some battleship is firing.

It's the Kuninooyajiswaro!

Fire!

We got it!

The Five Archipelagos

What happened?

I went up to the deck and brought fatally injured crewmembers.

Help me. This cannon is still fine! Let's shoot!

Yes, sir! Aim at...

...the Osutobisha! Fire!

We got it!

The Akilesanta is the next!

Fire!

Fire!

The Japanese fleets' intense training paid off.

And the Shimose fire powder also had an enormous effect.

The Russian ships were in chaos by the barrage of the Japanese ships.

Osutobisha, Osurabia, retreated from the battle line first.

Then Kuninooyajiswaro, Kuiniajisworoff, caught a fatal fire.

It seemed that the battle was almost concluded after half an hour...

...both fleets were fighting in a tight area of 2400 - 2600 meters...

...and in the Japanese fleet, Asama became no longer able to remain in the battle.

You take over my position and conduct the ships.

Hurry the repairs!

Togo brought torpedo boats and destroyers for night battle...

...and gathered all other ships by Utsuryo Island.

Thirty three ships of the Baltic Fleet were either being sunken or wrecked.

Nicholai I, Alior, Ablakshn, Senjarvin, and Izmlude were soon surrounded by Japanese Fleets.

We surrender.

Admiral, they have surrendered.

That one is Nicholai I, which Nebogatov should be aboard.

I know.

Admiral, Nebogatov has surrendered.

Shall we stop firing?

Why not, sir?

We must show mercy. Please stop firing...

No. That ship hasn't surrendered yet.

But...

They haven't stopped the ship yet. It's still moving forward.

Stop the ship!

The Japanese Fleets had three torpedo boats sunken and 700 casualties.

Other than those, they didn't lose any other ships.

40 nautical miles south-west from Utsuryo Island Rozhestvensky was saved by the Russian destroyer Bedowy and survived.

Rozhestvensky was saved by the Russian destroyer Bedowy and survived.

But the destroyer eventually found by Japanese destroyers that were patrolling the area.

Admimral, we are being chased by Japanese destroyers, and we cannot possibly escape from them.

What should we do?

You should do what you think is right without considering me.

What will you do with it?

I'll use this to surrender.

Are you to surrender? No!

Have the engine stopped?

We are already under the custody of the Japanese destroyers Sazanami and Kagero...

And soon, Japanese will come for you, sir.

This is the Admiral Rojestbenski.

He looks fatally injured. Can you tell me if we can move him?

No, we can't move him now.

He's bleeding badly, we have to take time and care for him here.

I see. Then I'll get back to the ship and send a telegraph. Take care the rest.

How long did it take for them to float all the way here?

I have no idea, but he arrived here by some kind of destiny or fate.

I don't think you wanted to come though...

Now everyone, please to the temple.

Temporarily, he couldn't have sleep well for few days, but he's fine now.

He would like to see you, sir.

Here.

Oh, please don't. Please stay comfortable.

Admiral Togo.

We have received a reply from the Russian emperor for the report that you have sent.

The losing in the battle was unfortunate.

But thankfully you have survived the battle, and I am honored by your loyalty. God shall bless you.

How is his condition?

His right shoulder has been fractured, and the bleeding from his forehead has been critical.

But he's been getting better.

What about his meal?

For that matter, we have invited a Russian cook from Nagasaki.

I see. You've been doing quite a good job.

Admiral, he's saying that he's very thankful for you sending the telegraph.

And he's asking, how Admiral Nebogatov's doing?

General Nebogatov is now in Kyoto, and he's quite fine.

I want you to tell him that...

Yes.

I am truly surprised by the skill and spirit of the Russians that sailed hugest fleet in the world 18000 miles.

And I heard that the battleship Sworoff was told not to pull down the shipflag...

...as long as they could fight.

This is exactly the same spirit that we Japanese have.

The Admiral's said he's not ashamed of losing a battle against somebody like you at all.

I guess there are some inconvenient things for you, but please have a good rest here peacefully.

Thank you.

Admiral, here is a congratulatory gift from the Naval Minister, Yamamoto.

What beautiful flowers.

Mr. Ito, the protruding nail would be hammered down.

If Japan becomes a considerably strong country and puts all Asian countries under control...

Wouls America or Britain would be our next enemy?

It's America!

You think Japan will fight against America?

Yes I do.

Mr. Ito, that's why from now on, we have to prepare for the time.

After the huge victory of the Battle of Japan Sea...

...he started casting down and slouching his body a bit...

...which was as if he was afraid of being seen or standing out.

It is the figure of a man who learned the true fear while summoned to battle and achieving victory.

Now, what's overflowing in his heart is the fear of the fact that he won a battle...

...is the thoughts that a war is dreadful even to win.

A man, who's solely being afraid and solely did his job and who made history...

His name is Heihachiro Togo.

Translated by Koichiro Subtitled and Mastered by Cannibal King www.KuroTogakiGumi.com

Apologies for the incorrect millitary ranks and spellings of Russian names.