Original subtitles

A DAIEI PRESENTATION

LEGS

WOMAN

THE WOMAN WHO TOUCHED LEGS

Produced by: Masaichi Nagata

Planning by: Hiroaki Fuijii, Kon Ichikawa

Screenplay: Kon Ichikawa, Natto Wada

Cinematography: Hiroshi Murat

Sound: Kimio Tobita Lighting: Isamu Yoneyama

Art Direction: Shigeo Mano Music: Setsuo Tsukahara

CAST

Machiko Kyo

Eiji Funakoshi, Hajime Hana Haruko Sugimura

Bontaro Miake, Mantaro Ushio Jun Tatara, Jiro Tami ya

Shiro Otsuiji, Kyoko Enami Kumeko Urabe

Ko Sugita, Jerry Fujio Manabu Morita, Akira Natsuki

Eiichi Takamura, Kenichi Tani Jun Osanai, Hiroko Machida

Fujio Harumoto

Osamu Okawa, Nobuhiko Inoue Yoshiko Kusunoki, Hitoshi Ueki

Kei Tani Hiroshi Inuzuka

Directed by: Yasuzo Masumura

As [ suddenly glanced out the train window, I was struck by a strange feeling.

An unfamiliar landscape rushes past.

I should be on the limited express bound for Tokyo.

You could say I'm familiar with commuting on the Tokaido Line.

There shouldn't be any place with such scenery along the train line.

Feeling uneasy, I stood up, thinking I should ask the conductor.

I found the assistant conductor before the conductor,

but, no matter how much I called out to him, he didn't even flinch.

When [ leaned in closer,

the nauseating stench of a drunkard hit me.

I proceeded to the next passenger car to look for the conductor.

I'd prefer a smaller one.

- One that fits into the palm of my hand. - You demand so much!

Here, like this one?

- Hey. - Thank you!

- Can't you cut me a deal? - Huh?

In broad daylight, pistols were being sold on the train.

Even when I drew near, they didn't seem to care.

Right, there should be a railway police officer on the limited express train.

About the train running though unexpected places...

About people buying and selling handguns...

[ quickly started rattling on,

but the railway police officer gave me a sharp look and went,

"Shut up! Are you trying to jinx my game?” Then, drew his handgun and pointed it at me.

My throat went dry, and my knees were shaking.

The dining car was just like a bar. Banknotes were scattered on the counter like tissues.

[ Didn't want anything to do with this bunch.

So, I decided to go check out the engine room.

When [ finally got to the engine room, there was a gangster in there.

Do you understand?

Next time we reach a junction, make sure to turn left again.

Please give me a break...

Didn't we just take a left?

The train's schedule will be all messed up.

Don't waste your breath.

Or I'll shoot you.

You fool! If I die, who will run this train?

A measly 100.000 yen isn't enough for more than a single left turn.

All right, then! I'll give you another 300.000 yen.

If you can't trust the train driver when riding a train,

then who else are you supposed to trust?

My chest began to ache...

Where am [?

Is this not Japan? Is this not the country where I was born?

In Japan, such crimes have already become an everyday occurrence.

Criminal Japan. A terminal symptom of capitalism.

Consumption and desire.

In a world where money rules everything, it's only natural for things to end up like this.

Money, money, money... Without money you can't do anything.

Kill or be killed?

[ Have made up my mind.

[ Want what I want.

I pulled out my trusty Colt from beneath my shirt.

[ Shouted.

[ Shouted even more.

Hey, you. Hey!

Isn't this your wallet?

It's hot...

Delicious!

Where did they sell that railway lunch box?

This? This isn't a railway lunch box.

But...

A railway lunch box usually refers to the ones you buy through the window at a train stop.

But they made it so you can't do that on a limited express.

But...

On the limited express, it's a dining car waitress going around selling these.

Without these on the express, you'd have to go without food and drink until Tokyo.

But isn't the JNR supposed to be a public institution?

So, why let customers who skip their dining car vendor go hungry?

What are they even thinking?

Did they sell you the lunch box here?

Scholars, now is our moment!

- Did they pass through here? - What?

With the lunch boxes? That's right.

But since you were completely absorbed in the book...

I didn't notice.

What are you reading?

"Criminal Japan".

By Kosuke Gomi.

Kosuke Gomi writes even stuff like this? He sure is proficient!

It's Kosuke Gomu. Of course you'd read it as gomi.

What do you mean by that?

- You meant gomi as in trash, right? - You're such a fool!

I'm talking about the sword-fighting novelist, Kosuke Gomi.

I never heard of him.

I am a fan of Kosuke Gomu!

I respect him.

Gomu? I've never heard of him.

He's great for sure!

- Is that book interesting? - For sure!

Let me see it!

I'm on a really interesting part!

- Why don't you check the dining car? - They have food?

They might run out if you don't hurry. Keep going that way!

What is this? It's just a third-rate novel. Such low class. Disgusting!

Shoo!

Sensei, I understand your cautious concern very well,

but wouldn't it be better if you considered it in a more relaxed manner?

The editor-in-chief also emphasizes that you should write more comfortably.

He also mentioned he'll make special arrangements for the manuscript fee.

- I don't want money. - Huh?

What I want is free time.

I understand that.

But if someone like you steps in, even the magazines won't be able to ignore it.

I mean, your "Criminal Japan" novel is a hidden bestseller, after all.

The things I write are novels like "Criminal Japan".

A hidden bestseller that sells so well that no scholar acknowledges it.

No, I didn't mean it like that.

- I just... - I know. You're with Weekly Japon, right?

Speaking of Weekly Japon, isn't it the top-ranked of all the weeklies?

I'm just a third-rate novelist, you're on another level.

Sensei, please don't be sarcastic.

Sarcastic?

I can only speak the truth.

You guys are a refined bunch.

But my novel is a pipe dream. You think of it as a terrible exaggeration.

But that's the way things are in Japan today.

Japan is in an unbelievable state right now.

For example, look! It says "buffet” on the entrance of the dining car.

When I first saw it, I thought it said bathroom.

In the country of Japan, Japanese people are being led around

by words written in characters that they can read but cannot understand.

Isn't that absurd?

But that is the reality.

It's all about crime, sex, and gore.

We're like savages.

What's your problem?!

Are you Mr. Gomu?

I'm a big fan of yours. I respect you.

I only care about the truth, and the public knows it very well.

So, I'll just keep writing the truth.

But I'd really like some free time.

What's the use of a fee if I've got no time to spend it?

Money would be pointless, like tissue paper.

Hey, got anything else to eat?

Beer!

I don't need beer. I'd like some chicken thighs.

- Apparently, there's only roast chicken. - That's fine. You're paying, right?

By all means. Please, eat as much as you like! By all means.

Roast chicken.

How about making it a story about a beautiful pickpocket?

A beautiful pickpocket?

You're out of touch, buddy.

That's like folk tales. A pickpocket story nowadays would only gather mold.

Is there even such a thing as a beautiful pickpocket?

If you're beautiful, you'd never resort to that.

There are plenty of other ways to make a lavish living.

If there is a woman pickpocket out there,

it's either one who lacks the ability to make money off their looks or one of the grannies.

Excuse me for interrupting, but you're being prejudiced.

I believe that prejudice itself is the cause of war.

- I'm saying you're being prejudiced. - Sensei, don't mind him.

- There is a beautiful pickpocket out there. - Maybe in folk tales.

There is one!

I want to meet her, then.

- I'll let you meet her. - Where is she?

In Osaka.

Osaka? I was in Osaka until this morning, but I didn't get to see such a woman.

Actually, for all I know, she might be on this train.

- Since transportation is her specialty. - She's on this train? Isn't that dangerous?

I'm just saying it's a possibility.

Pickpockets, thieves, robbers, murderers... They're everywhere, even amongst us.

This guy's too conventional... You're single, right?

- Yeah. - So is he.

But single men tend to lack awareness when it comes to women.

They may put on airs, but on the inside they long to be admired.

Putting on fake eyelashes, applying eyeshadow,

and showing off one's curves is what makes a beauty.

It's only natural for young women to have curves.

But she's the most beautiful woman I've ever come across in my life.

I can't rely on that.

Please believe me.

Believe you? But I don't even know you.

Umeyama Police Station, Osaka Detective Happeita Kita

Oh, it got dirty...

Thank you very much. That won't be necessary.

- Is this yours? - Indeed.

Do you mind if I smoke?

- Go ahead. - Thank you.

Oh, sorry about this!

No, I don't mind it, I'll get used to it quickly. The smell is really nice.

You're such a kind person. They say travel is better with a companion,

but to be accompanied by a beautiful kind lady like yourself is truly delightful.

Where are you going?

I am...

This is who I am.

Tokyo Television Consultant Rokuemon Okada

If you ever come to Tokyo for leisure, I'd love the opportunity to show you around.

Thank you very much.

How about joining me for dinner?

I'm full right now.

Is that so?

Well then, if you'll excuse me for a moment.

Ouch!

My stocking got ripped. How mean!

Wait! Hold on there!

Big sister!

Hashiru, be careful.

You tore them again.

Forgive me!

I told you to be careful when kicking, since nylon stockings tear easily, didn't I?

It's just a play to get things started, anyway,

so all you have to do is stumble not kick into me for real.

How much do you think these stockings cost?

I'm so sorry, sister!

I'll work and pay you back eventually.

Work?

So vulgar. If you ever do such a thing,

I'll abandon you!

Please, sister, anything but that! I won't do that, I promise.

You better not. More importantly, best not to wander around too much.

Mr. Kita is here.

Mr. Kita?

I'm sure he's definitely here to chase after you.

But how did he know?

It's because landing a big fish means a pay raise.

What big fish? You?

- Obviously. - Really?

- Mr. Kita is probably in second-class, right? - Most likely.

Then, we should be able to take him out.

Take him out?

Sister!

You're so noisy!

This is my business, after all.

"This trip is not a usual trip”,

"so we have to be cautious”. That's what you said.

Missing such a chance would disgrace a pickpocket.

How shall we do this?

Sister, how about turning off that switch?

I'm bad with scientific stuff.

No matter what anyone says, our job is a ridiculous one.

You'll understand once you try it out yourself.

Even if we make arrests again and again, crimes keep on happening one after another.

Laws are necessary. Justice must be served, after all.

But we've reached a point where the power of the police alone just isn't enough.

It's tedious, you know. All it does is wear you out.

Are you going to Tokyo for work, or pleasure?

Since complaining is useless, we must push on like a carriage horse.

My boss keeps insisting I use my vacation days,

so I had no choice but to take a vacation.

My coworkers are struggling, especially with our staff shortage.

But if our boss says, "Rules are rules”, there's no use arguing.

But it sure is ridiculous, to get a vacation that you can't even afford.

The only thing they give us is a mere railway free pass.

So, I thought I'd go to Tokyo to check out that International Beauty Contest.

I should just quit being a policeman.

- Magazines are doing well, right? - Not really, though.

Say, Sensei, since he's on vacation, why not ask him about all kinds of stuff?

As a specialist, he'll give you interesting writing material.

I'm not the kind of writer who needs a model to be able to write.

You sure are an arrogant one, aren't you? Who is this person?

Kosuke Gomu

Really?

I apologize for the rudeness.

Even at our station, your work is quite popular.

- Especially the Ittosai series. - Hey, you!

I heard you got your hair cut for a baseball related thing, so I didn't recognize you.

Your hair sure seems to grow fast!

Since you're a policeman, you can read, right?

Calm down and take a better look.

My name is not Gomi. It's Go-mu!

Written with the "mu"” from Namu Amida Butsu.

We often get confused and it's annoying. He's probably saying the same thing.

Oh, you're done eating already?

It was way too crowded.

Well, holding out for an hour or two longer, it's not like it's going to kill me.

You're such an amusing person.

Me? Is that so?

Hey, you! The one wearing a kimono!

Me?

- Sorry about that. - Sensei, I'll pick it up.

Hey, I don't care how important he might be to you,

but you should let him pick up what he knocked down himself.

I'm awfully sorry about this, Madam.

Hey, you shouldn't be saying rude things!

- Does this person look like a madam? - Huh?

Does she seem like my madam to you?

- | can't apologize enough for this... - Sensetl!

What an insolent man!

Sensei? What a joke!

- What are you doing? - Nothing, it's just that...

What's wrong?

Someone is touching me...

Oh no, come here!

Oh my...

This train uses the latest equipment, right?

Please, wait a moment, I have to sort out the telegrams before departure.

I'm not here about the telegrams. The lights weren't turning on earlier.

That's not possible. They're automatic.

Isn't this neglect of duty?

I will inspect it later.

Hey, you can't say it like that.

How about saying at least "sorry"?

I went out of my way to let you know.

I understand. We apologize for this.

It's startling when things suddenly go dark. It's inconvenient.

What's the point of inspecting after a theft happened?

Was there a theft? That's terrible!

I mean if it happens, a perfect chance for pickpockets.

- Were there any pickpockets? - Don't ask me. How would I know?

- I got robbed! - What?!

- A pickpocket? - My wallet was stolen!

You see, it happened just like I said.

Proper young men like that often turn out suspicious.

Today's pickpockets stay well-groomed!

Anyway, please come inside. Tell me everything in detail.

Did something happen?

I got pickpocketed.

Don't just tell the person in question.

What was stolen?

Take a look here. My wallet was swapped with this.

You shouldn't tell him that.

That's quite some skill.

However... I must excuse myself.

Excuse me, but could you please come in for a moment?

But what to do now, there's no railway police on board today.

But can't I at least get a break while on vacation?

Could you let go of my arms?

This is what they mean by "the audacity of a thief".

What do you mean vacation when you're just a pickpocket?

Who is a pickpocket?

That's not good.

You can't say things like that without proof.

Calm down.

Why are you holding him? It is a woman.

- Woman? - Woman?

- Do you have any idea who she is? - Who are you?

We're saved.

Excuse me, could you hear this person out?

Well, I'm on vacation, you see.

And we're out of my jurisdiction. So, please pardon me.

So, that woman was sitting next you?

She was.

- And did she hold onto you? - Well, I guess so...

Way to go!

- What kind of woman was she? - She was young and pretty.

- Did she have an atypical Japanese attitude? - Yes.

- About 25 or 26 years old? - Yes.

- Her height, 1.60 meters? - Yes, yes.

- Big eyes? - Yes.

- Pretty legs? - Yes.

Damn it! She was on this train, after all.

Can't be helped. Since she's a pickpocket from within my jurisdiction,

- I'll take on this case. - Thank you!

She's a pickpocket from Osaka. Did you think she's beautiful?

I'm a feminist, you know.

I'm not asking about you!

She's beautiful. There's no doubt!

Thanks a lot!

It's here!

It's here! I still have my wallet.

- She took the one with business cards. - Was anything important in it?

- No, just business cards. - That's not possible!

- She's not the type to make that mistake. - Oh, customer, first-class is this way!

Oh, forgive me!

Hey!

What is it?

I'm so sorry!

Is there something you need, young man?

I mistook you for someone else.

Don't make fun of me!

I'm really sorry!

You're quite something, too.

What?

You snatched that, didn't you?

No, I didn't! I was entrusted with it.

It's my sister's.

I know that.

Oh, I'm sorry!

Hello!

Hello.

What a coincidence to meet you here.

What a coincidence indeed.

You did a job in first-class, right?

- What are you talking about? - Stop feigning ignorance!

You're the only pickpocket who fits such criteria.

What criteria?

Young and tall.

Big eyes. A beauty with pretty legs.

That's an exaggeration...

Come with me now!

No, that's the wrong way!

Why would I ride first-class when I've been in second-class the whole time?

Then, show me your ticket.

Oh, I put it in my suitcase, and left it on the seat.

That sure is suspicious!

Excuse me, Mr. Detective.

But did you see me pickpocket?

No.

So, are you going to do a physical examination here?

No...

How arrogant of you, when you have no proof. Let me go!

But, you see...!

Ouch, that hurt...

It might leave a bruise, you know.

What do you like about me so much that you keep following me?

Don't be absurd!

I was on my way to Tokyo.

It's just a coincidence that we're on the same train.

Really? I also have a proper destination for this trip, you know.

Where are you heading?

Back to my hometown.

If I recall, your hometown was Atsugi in Kanagawa Prefecture, right?

- Right. - What are you going there for?

It's none of your business, Mr. Detective.

When you were two or three years old, you left Atsugi and came to Osaka.

Your father died soon after. Your mother also died when you were thirteen.

But, listen here, you're not the only one without parents.

Don't you have any intention of living properly? By having an honest job.

You don't have to be a stain on society.

Don't act so big just because you checked my family register.

Were our struggles recorded in the family register?

We're all human, after all. Everyone has their struggles.

So, you're saying everyone's father was suspected of being a spy?

A spy?

My father committed suicide.

My mother overworked herself to death.

She kept talking about that one thing right up until the moment she died.

"I really hope you will avenge this grudge of ours”, she said.

I'm going to get them with a bang!

Them?

My relatives in Atsugi.

With a loud bang!

You shouldn't do that!

I can't stand the thought of you becoming a murderer.

I'm begging you, please don't do it.

But, if you insist on doing it, then I'll do it.

That's right, I'll kill them for you! With a bang!

I never said anything about killing.

- But for a bang, it's gotta be dynamite. - Dynamite?

But isn't that thing dangerous?

- I'm going to hold a memorial service. - Memorial service?

I'll show everyone that Shiozawa's daughter,

Kiyose's village chief in Atsugi, lives respectably.

To the relatives who called us "traitors” and chased us out of Atsugi.

- A memorial service? - Yes!

A magnificent memorial service.

And how will you pay for it?

- With the money I earned. - When?

This whole time.

Weren't you in prison until three months ago, though?

After I got out...

Hold on a second.

That doesn't make any sense.

I told you I earned it, I didn't steal it.

If you have a complaint, get some evidence first.

Goodbye!

Let's see each other again in Osaka!

Mr. Kita is tracking you down.

I was cold sweating, worried that you might run into him.

- I did run into him. - You did?

Let's get out of here!

There's no need to panic over that small-time detective.

And stop showing up all the time. What if he thinks you're my partner?

But I am your partner.

No, you're not. You're just giving me a hand. I won't let you end up with a criminal record.

Because there's still hope for you.

- But... - No "buts"!

You're not cut out to be a pickpocket.

You'll stand out with that permanent surprised look and your clumsiness.

From your earlier job, all we got is just a bunch of business cards.

Business cards can also make you money.

You're supposed to be raising money for the memorial service.

Just make sure the memorial service money isn't stolen.

Don't be cheeky, Hashiru. I just mistook the right and left pockets.

There's nothing wrong with my skills.

All right, granny. Beyond this point, it's second-class cars.

Make sure you find the right seat this time.

- Yes, sir. - There's a train boy on this side, too.

- Please ask him to guide you. - Yes, sir...

Granny, do you need some help?

It must be hard for you.

Thank you, thank you.

I appreciate your kindness.

What happened?

They even told me I can't ride in first-class with these dirty clothes.

What on this tiny scrap of paper tells you whether it's first or second-class?

- This is a first-class ticket. - What?

- The train boy made a mistake. - That's not possible.

I definitely bought a second-class ticket.

When he checked the tickets, he likely mixed it up and gave this one back to you.

Now, take this ticket and confidently go back to the first-class car.

Thank you, thank you.

They say a slightly softer chair is more comfortable for older people.

How very kind of you.

Young man, you're such a fortunate person to have such a wonderful wife.

Wife? This woman is my wife?

Yes, you are lovely couple!

Honey, can you carry granny's luggage all the way to her seat?

Don't be absurd!

Thank you, thank you.

I never thought that, even among the young people on the train,

there would be such kind people as yourselves.

That makes me so happy...

Come on, quickly take her to her seat.

Thank you, I entrust my luggage to you.

Ladies and gentlemen, we are seeking the recipient of a telegram.

Mr. Toshio Tanaka, Mr. Toshio Tanaka, a telegram has arrived for you,

so please contact a crew member.

Thank you, thank you.

Hey!

Oh, it's you!

This seat wasn't this granny's.

- Was that woman sitting here? - Yes, that's right.

I see. Damn it!

Young man, where are you from?

What are you doing sitting in my seat?

All I can say is,

now that the journey from Osaka to Tokyo is nearing its end,

what's the point in bringing this up now?

Move!

- Where have you been all this time? - None of your business.

Why don't you return to your previous seat? This one's mine!

- Do you have the ticket for it? - Of course I do.

Let me see it.

Car No. 11, seat No. 17. It's the same as mine.

You're right, it's the same.

You see, it's written No. 11 here.

This is none of your business. You stay out of it!

Does this number look like eleven?

It does to me.

Seat No. 11 is here. It has been vacant all this time.

Thank you! My seat was over there. Anyway, the ones at the ticket counter

writing with very slim characters are what cause these situations.

Still, I'm the kind of person who follows the rules.

Here you go.

Come on, so it was her suitcase?

- So, this must be your sister, right? - No, you're mistaken.

I don't know this person.

Are you still planning to complain?

No, I'm sorry...

I'm going to borrow this book. I'll give it back when you get off.

What are you muttering about?

That person took my book.

What a strange guy! He even kept pestering you and stuff...

Ah, I know why that is. He just wanted to keep talking with me.

- Why is that? - Because I'm a beauty.

But what a coincidence.

For the ticket you pickpocketed from that granny to be for the seat next to mine.

Did you see me pickpocketing it?

No at all. When did you do it?

That was nothing.

It was wonderful!

Shush, he's back again.

Don't act so familiar.

I have a ticket, you know.

It definitely says second-class.

I do not appreciate a woman who is clumsy with her hands.

In that sense, I think highly of you.

You'll get good at sewing in no time.

Will you take me as your wife?

I'm saying, how about changing your line of work?

I wouldn't mind introducing you to a live-in dressmaking shop instead.

To use the money you worked so hard to earn and save

on a memorial service would be such a waste.

Why not use that money to open your own shop instead?

I will hold a memorial service!

Think carefully about it.

Revenge is completely outdated. It makes no sense for a modern person.

But it makes sense to me.

Besides, a memorial service is so old-fashioned.

Going bang-bang instead would be more satisfying.

But a priest's liturgy?

And that's not all. I'm going to prepare an amazing feast.

Even more so, there's no need to treat your enemies to a feast.

That's just how the world works.

You're free to be kind to the grannies, but pickpocketing them is wrong.

You are mistaken, I just felt sorry for her.

Is that so?

That's why I say being a policeman is pointless.

Even after exhausting all reason to bring you back onto the right path,

you're still playing innocent.

And because of absurd laws that say you can't arrest a pickpocket unless caught red-handed,

all I can do is stare at the pickpocket in front of me, and on top of that, they mock me...

Poor thing.

Anyway, I'm on vacation, and I've got nothing else to do, so I might as well stick by your side.

There's a chance I might catch you off guard.

Don't do that, please.

Being called a detective lover would ruin my “return home in triumph” plan.

Don't worry, I'm in plain clothes. Maybe we'll just say I'm your boyfriend.

Please, I'm begging you. Look!

Alami... Atami... We've arrived at Atami...

Ah, I dropped it.

I can't see it. Where did it go?

How much is it?

It's a 100 yen coin.

I'll find it.

Never mind.

It'd be a waste.

Oh, she ran away!

What's wrong?

Her!

- The train is leaving soon. - I know!

You'll miss it!

It can't be helped!

- Hey! - Watch out!

Your ticket...

It's gone... My wallet is gone!

Damn it...

She stole it...

Big sister Haruko, it's a pleasure to see you again after such a long time.

You've grown so much, Saya. Hashiru's also gotten quite tall.

When I picked you up, you were this tall and still adorable.

So, how's the economy doing in Osaka these days?

It's not good at all.

How about Tako, Chiko, and the boys?

Everyone scattered.

Ah, so this is not a business to be done long term, after all.

I'm planning of slowly quitting, too.

It's so noisy.

What is? The shooting practice?

- Isn't it nice that it's lively, though? - Are those live bullets?

Of course!

What a waste.

That helps keep you on your toes.

I sleep better when I take a nap while listening to this sound.

That's a terminal symptom of a capitalist society.

Saya, so you're finally planning to head into Atsugi?

With the world in such a state,

I thought it'd be best to do what I want.

Sister watches a lot of TV, so she knows a lot about world affairs.

Even after everything Dad did for them,

how could they spread all sorts of lies to the military police? They're not human.

That's just how the world is.

"Don't bite the hand that feeds you" doesn't work.

How much did you bring?

30.000.

- That's it? - It was hard just gathering this much.

When my sister gets extra money, she buys handbags, gets clothes made,

or treating us to noodles. And that's why my sister...

Stop calling her sister, it's weird!

Why not? Isn't it cute?

What is? Him? Not really.

This boy has a dream.

I want to become a Chinese noodle shop owner.

The noodles he makes are very delicious.

The noodle shop owner said he'd transfer the rights to me.

Where'll you get the money for that? I need to change.

You can do it in the kitchen.

I could buy it if I had 30.000 yen.

Are you guys still upstairs at the kamaboko shop?

- Only me. - And Saya?

She moved upstairs to the nearby greengrocer.

She didn't like that I started smelling like a man. But I feel lonely, though.

Saya?

It was the granny... Damn it!

That old hag pickpocketed me.

Pickpocketed? You?

Our memorial service money got pickpocketed, yes!

I warned you, though.

And I thought it was strange how she was clinging.

Stop it. I'm the one who feels like crying.

Stealing other people's money, some people sure are awful!

I lost hope in humanity.

Just recently, a newspaper reported

that a man whose company's money was stolen committed suicide.

I understand that sentiment.

But there's no need to die over it, right? You don't have to die.

Be careful!

Are you determined to commit suicide? Well, I'm not going to stop you,

but how about postponing it for one night? Wanna come and play with me?

Who said anything about dying? If you make baseless accusations, I'll call the police!

Hello? Hello?

What happened?

Why won't you let me die? I beg you, let me die!

You shouldn't say such silly things!

Ah, you were on the train...

It might be hard to save any money as a sewing machine and insurance salesperson,

but I can't bring myself to do anything strange either.

Well, I can't believe there's someone like you with such strong moral principles these days.

What a rare sight.

After saving everything even by skipping meals, and finally making it back home...

I too have been feeling stuck lately.

If crime, sex, and gore aren't taking me anywhere,

it's about time to change my approach. Your story is truly inspiring.

Say, could you please tell me more about it in detail?

That was all.

Come on, don't say such cold things.

You have to help me.

I have just decided

to be the person with the mission of giving this chaotic Japan a new sense of morality.

This is who I am.

You can probably tell, but my name is read as Gomu.

People often mistake me for Gomi.

Is the gentleman called Gomi also a teacher?

- Huh? - I'll be taking my leave now.

Wait... Please wait a moment.

Please take your time, you must be tired.

This is a place where you don't have to worry about a thing.

Because it's an inn that I use regularly for work.

I see, nevertheless... Thank you very much for your help.

I guess there's no other choice. I shall give you that money.

No, you don't have to.

- I could never... - How much was stolen?

100.000 yen.

100.000 yen?

That's quite a lot, isn't it?

Why didn't you report it to the police?

No pickpocket would return stolen money to the police.

You might not get your money back even if you report it, but...

Rather than report something disgraceful as being pickpocketed, I'd rather die.

That's the great thing about you.

The mindset of blaming oneself before blaming anyone else.

I'd like to hear more like that from you.

How about it? Would you accept 70.0007

You're going to give me 70.000 yen?

Thank you.

I like how honest you are. How about it? Want to take a bath? It'll help you relax.

It's okay if I join you, right?

Yes, go ahead.

You're done already?

The bath was nice, it felt really good.

Please, take your time.

"Dakki no Ohyaku”, "Takahashi Oden", "Shiranami Onna"...

Nothing but thief stories!

I knew school teachers weren't anything special. Overstaying would be pointless.

Why are you getting dressed?

You're also done already?

I'm a quick bather.

Bathing goes quick, when I'm alone that is.

If you think of it as saving a human life, then it's worth the price.

Thank you. With this, I can show my filial piety.

Perfect timing, I just got my advance for a serialized novel.

Sensei, so you were a novel seller?

Novel seller?

I see, what an adorable way to put it.

Since you're probably tired tonight, maybe you can tell me your story while lying down.

What are you doing?!

Sensei, thank you very much! I'll never forget this for the rest of my life.

W-Wait! I won't force you to sleep.

So, you have to at least let me hear your story.

Ouch!

Come on, that's cruel! Isn't this basically stealing?

What a terrible world we live in.

Didn't even give me time to feel the pain. She's clearly led by crime, sex, and gore.

But didn't I properly sleep in your room after returning to the apartment?

You came home really late. I know that very well.

I had no idea.

You fell asleep right after eating udon,

and started snoring loudly.

Nothing happened, I tell you.

Who would give out 70.000 yen for nothing?

I just took a bath.

- See, I knew it. - I took it alone.

Saya, it looks like you didn't keep your word to me, after all.

Don't you remember the promise you made to me when I left Osaka three years ago?

There are all kinds of pickpockets,

but resorting to using your body is the lowest of the low, even among pickpockets.

What if you end up making that mistake?

Wouldn't that make you feel guilty toward your dead mother, like you always say?

Listen, for a pickpocket, it's best to keep your distance until it's time to act.

The secret is to do it without even touching the person's body.

And, since I lack the skill for that, I'm just sticking to shoplifting.

But I haven't defiled my body.

Your methods are too improper, stripping in front of a man?

Sorry to interrupt, but it's so hot I might get a sunstroke.

Can we rest in the shade over there?

We can't, because we must find my hometown.

Isn't your hometown here? Wasn't it Atsugi in Kanagawa?

- That's right. - Then, we're in the right place.

Big sister, stay strong!

We rode so many trains since morning and finally reached Atsugi.

There's no way a place like this is my hometown.

There's nothing here except planes flying around.

You know, the Kiyose Village in Atsugi,

has a beautiful stream flowing right through its middle.

It's a quaint village with about twenty to thirty farmhouses clustered together.

That's what Mom always said.

"Just asking me about it is enough to make me remember the scent of home", she said.

There was no airfield?

I did hear that the Navy's Kiyose Airfield was somewhere nearby, though.

Sister, so you don't know anything?

That's right, they did kick us out when I was a baby, after all.

Well, after 24 years, of course things are different.

Well, who knows.

We only moved here four years ago, after all.

So, I'm not really sure about the past.

When we came here, the economy was ridiculously good.

I even paid a high license fee to buy this shop,

but now it's not going well at all.

At this point, we've got nowhere else to go, anyway.

We don't know what to do.

If you're by yourself, I wouldn't mind lending you a room.

Please don't say weird things.

Her inappropriate behavior was already a problem, don't add to it.

No, I only...

I'm sorry for bothering you.

You were her mother? I apologize for that.

Mother? Me? That woman's? Absolutely not! I'm a maiden, you know!

May we use your store front for a moment?

What's wrong?

You can't go out right now.

Oh, hello, Mr. Detective.

My hunch was spot on! I knew if I went to Atsugi, I would run into you.

Fine, if you want to be by my side that much, then come with me.

Let's go!

- Just hand over my wallet. - Your wallet?

You know perfectly well that my wallet doesn't have much in it.

You just did it to cause me trouble, right? Well, you did, a lot.

Last night, I asked a friend at the MPD to pull some strings so I could stay at the police dorm.

Today, I had to borrow 500 yen to be here.

Feels good hearing me admit the trouble you caused, right?

Stop teasing and hand it over!

- That granny's got some impressive skill... - Huh?

Listen here.

I'd like you to keep this just between us, but, to be honest, I also got pickpocketed.

- Stop joking around! - But it's the truth!

You remember the granny on the train with her luggage wrapped up, right?

My head hurts...

I didn't come all this way to hear nonsense about a pickpocket getting stolen from.

Poor thing. How much did they steal?

- I'll lend it to you. - No, thanks!

- Really? Goodbye, then! - Hey!

- Don't you dare get in my way. Not today. - What do you mean?

Here I am, trying to settle my parents' grudge, and everyone keeps getting in my way!

Who is everyone?

- Have you finished the memorial service? - Far from it.

- I can't find my hometown. - Your hometown? Why?

Look, there's nothing but an airfield and airplanes.

- Have you tried asking around? - Yes.

- And? - They didn't know.

That's strange!

- Have you tried the police box? - The police box?

That would be the quickest way to find out about it.

Since I've worked at a police box before,

I know they're supposed to know everything about the residents in their area.

- There's no better place to ask. - I'm not going to a police box.

- I'll go with you. - No way! Not a chance! Absolutely not!

Hey!

Hey! Hey!

Poor sister! She ended up getting dragged off to the police box, after all.

It's Saya's fault to begin with.

This happens because she's too lenient with men.

You should be even more careful when your opponent is a detective.

I see. Looks like the numbers are decreasing gradually with each passing year.

There used to be a lot of families with the surname Shiozawa.

- But they gradually started moving out... - Do you know where they went?

There's no record of their destination, though.

What used to be just a Navy airfield,

after numerous expansions, became the vast airfield you see today.

So, there's no surprise some villages disappeared.

The villagers ended up scattering in all directions.

Well, if there's even a single Shiozawa still around,

they might know where everyone moved, since they're relatives.

I'd like to ask you a question. How do I get to Kiyose Village?

Lots of people are asking about Kiyose Village today.

Oh, hey! You're here? Phew!

- Sensei... - There's no need to be so scared.

The last night thing is in the past. It doesn't bother me at all I.

Did this woman do something to you last night?

Who are you? Have we met before?

-Well, I am... - That's right, we met on the train.

- You're that detective from Osaka. - Excuse me if I was rude!

- Well... - Hey, do you know this detective?

Ah, this is the woman from Osaka I was going to introduce, the beautiful pick...

He's an old acquaintance from Osaka. Oh my, I'm sorry about that.

We happened to meet here by chance, so he tagged along.

He is such a kind person.

Found it! There's still a household with the Shiozawa name.

I couldn't read it due to my predecessor's handwriting.

Sorry about that. Let me draw you a map, since it's quite a difficult place to find.

Sensei, what happened last night?

That's rude to ask. It's between a man and a woman, get a clue.

I don't know how you know each other,

and to say this right in front of the person herself is, you know...

But this is what you'd call a beauty.

Is your beautiful pickpocket as beautiful as she is?

Of course.

This woman is that beautiful pickpocket!

What?

Hold on!

What a cowardly man you are!

There's no need to take it this far just because you're jealous of her and me.

Look! She couldn't put up with the insult and ran off, didn't she?

Please, let go of me! All I did was tell you the truth.

She's just a beauty who got pickpocketed by a pickpocket.

She's the beautiful pickpocket.

What a slow-witted detective you are!

She's just a pickpocket's victim. Can a pickpocket even get pickpocketed?

The results of her hard efforts to get revenge on her heartless relatives...

I mean, money, of course, got stolen from her,

driving her to the edge, that's when I saved her from suicide.

The story seemed too neat, so I got suspicious, too.

But when I came here to check, there she was. So, it's a true story!

Her being a pickpocket is also a true story.

Wait! Hey!

- Is this the Shiozawa residence? -Yes, it is.

- Is your house the only Shiozawa house around? - Yes, that's right.

My name is Saya Shiozawa.

Oh, so you're also called Shiozawa?

My father's name is Monnosuke Shiozawa. Have you heard of him?

- Who knows? - He used to live around here.

- He was a relative, right? - That's right.

There sure used to be a lot of relatives around here.

You mean around Kiyose Village, right?

- Kiyose Village? - You don't know it?

If grandpa were still alive, he might've definitely known.

- But he died last year. - What was his name?

- His name was Sugizo. - Sugizo?

That's the guy from the branch family. I knew it.

So, this is a relative's.

This place is a total dump.

They're planning to build a golf course, and we've been told to move out.

My husband says we should stay here longer because the selling price is bad.

My husband is adopted, you see.

He works in city pollution control. What a clever man he is.

He's saying we're going to Tokyo after things are settled here.

Where did you come from?

- Osaka. - Osaka? Really?

People who left early sure came out better.

Osaka is a nice place, isn't it?

- Where have you been? - We looked for you everywhere.

The house and village where I was born were somewhere around that airfield, I guess.

Whoever I ask, no one seems to know anything about such a village.

It's history. It's the power of history.

Even without you taking revenge,

the village that drove out your family was driven out by history and disappeared.

Can revenge get more thorough than this? Even as a stranger, it feels satisfying to see.

Could such a terrible thing really happen? I don't have a hometown anymore.

Please, make that airplane noise stop!

I want to go somewhere quiet...

I don't know what to do anymore. Hey, Mr. Detective, let's go back to Osaka.

I want to go to prison, since it's so quiet there.

I really miss that place right now.

Have you ever been to prison?

Then, are you a pickpocket, like this detective says?

That's right.

Shut up!

I'll give you back the 70.000 yen, since I don't need it anymore.

70.000 yen?

When did you borrow that much money? And you, why lend it to her?

You can have it!

Really...

All right, then.

Come on, put me in prison.

No way!

Everyone carries their hometown in their heart.

And you just found out your hometown is gone.

As for me, I'm shocked to learn that your heart's hometown is prison.

You are a pitiful woman.

All I can do is pray you never go back to prison.

Farewell!

Didn't you get on the train to arrest me?

Wait.

Hold on!

I need a beautiful pickpocket.

Hey!

I'm against going to the MPD.

- Mr. Driver, stop! - Please, keep going!

If I go to the MPD, Mr. Kita will definitely be there.

- It's funny hearing you call a detective "Mr." - You like Mr. Kita, right?

Hashiru...

What's your plan after going to prison?

- I'm still thinking about it. - Thinking won't change anything.

I'm not going to stay young forever, either.

What would be the point in getting naked after turning 50 or 607

That's why I keep telling you to hone your skills.

Becoming a top pickpocket would be huge, there'd be no taxes to pay.

How old are you again?

Just leave me alone.

I may not look it, but I'm still a maiden in my prime.

I haven't sunk so low as to sell myself.

If I'd known, I'd have bought Hashiru's noodle-shop rights.

- It's okay, sister. - I'm really disappointed.

For over twenty years,

I've only been thinking about revenge day and night, you know?

All for nothing.

That's a lie. Just recently, you sulked for ten days over a bad perm.

Ma'am, this is the MPD.

Yesterday's traffic accidents: 11 deaths, 212 injured

Mr. Kita.

- Sensei, it's you again? - I'd like you to release Saya Shiozawa.

- She got arrested? - Didn't you arrest her?

I didn't see her again!

Don't say such mean things. I desperately need a beautiful pickpocket.

The magazine's deadline is near,

and, without her, my reputation will be ruined.

- You're using her as a model? - That's right. Help me, I beg you!

Didn't you brag that you don't need a model when writing your novels?

My art depends on the circumstances.

So, you're not chasing that woman because you like her, right?

Aren't you the one who's in love with her?

- Me? With a pickpocket? - Let me tell you,

the only way to save a woman like that is to become her husband.

Husband? That would be a problem!

If I were to marry her, I'd have to quit the police force.

There's no such official rule, though, but in reality, that's what happens.

- So, how should I handle her? - See, I knew it.

You're even worrying about how to handle her now.

What's wrong with falling in love with her? What's wrong with marrying a pickpocket?

Isn't that much better than using a pitiful woman as a model

just to make money for cheap whiskey, like you're doing?

You say such mean things.

If you'll excuse me, I have business with the Commercial Affairs office.

Wait! Let me see her. Please, I beg you!

- I honestly have no idea. - Hey, you! Hey!

I hail from the Kanto Region.

Though, as you know, Kanto is vast.

Kanto runs along the Tokaido with the Chichibu Mountains facing Mount Fuji.

The Tama River flows east, and at dusk, Choan Temple appears across Musashino.

I was born in Atsugi by the Sagami River, raised to the morning bell.

- This lady wishes to see someone. - Please, be quiet.

Standing before you is but a humble person.

With this humble body, I present myself. I wish you great happiness and seek your favor.

My family name is Shiozawa, my given name is Saya, also known as Big Sister.

No matter where I find myself,

I'm always a nuisance to you and your companions.

1 kindly ask for your continued support,

and request that you make the necessary arrangements for my plea.

- That was impressive. - So, who did you come here to see?

It's this person.

- She was arrested, after all. - I didn't know.

I don't know her either. She's a bit crazy, isn't she?

When I asked for you, he went, "Who are you?", so I introduced myself.

- Come on, arrest me. - You are such a fool!

- Can my words not reach you? - Arresting me would be a favor.

Huh? Make sure you arrest them.

And stop calling about every little thing, it's not like we're lovers.

- Huh? Okay, I get it. - Say.

Arrest me. I told you I'm a pickpocket.

You're a bit crazy, aren't you?

She's not crazy. She's a full-fledged pickpocket from Osaka.

- And who are you? - A Osaka's Umeyama Police Station's

pickpocket-hunting detective.

There are 3.000 pickpockets in Tokyo alone.

We can't take Osaka ones. Since you're a detective from Osaka, take her back.

I'm on vacation. I don't want to get involved in any criminal cases.

How can you say that?

Don't you know there's a policeman shortage? Take her back with you!

That's an arrogant way to make a request. Who are you?

Me? I'm Superintendent Koizumi.

- Take her back with you. - Yes, Detective Kita will take her into custody.

Since this is official business, I'll need travel expenses.

- Don't you have a free pass? - I meant the lunch box cost.

That's a commercial officer's job. I'm a superintendent.

It was very helpful to hear such informative things.

But there's one thing I'd like to ask.

Can a pickpocket be arrested even if not caught red-handed?

If they admit to being a one, they can be arrested, of course.

Confessions are unreliable, especially when it comes to pickpockets.

That's right. How much? About 500 should be enough.

You get out already. You're distracting me.

Excuse me! Who are you? I can't have you loiter around as you please.

Me?

Oh, it was you, Mr. Gomu? Sorry about that.

I'm a fan of your novels!

It's the first time an intellectual like you has said that to me.

The world truly seems to be led by crime, gore, and sex.

By the way, are you turning a profit?

Money means nothing, I only want free time.

Oh my, I'm so grateful for your help the other day.

- This granny... - A pickpocket.

A sly fox with 29 previous offenses.

Sorry, I apologize.

Don't follow me! You'll get me in trouble!

I'm not ready to quit being a policeman yet.

Yippee!

- So, how much time will I get? - Well, about a year, I'd say.

- What will you do after getting out? - What do you think I should do?

I'm not ready to quit being a policeman yet.

Why would you quit?

Hey, you! You tore my stockings!

Ouch, that hurt!

Don't get in my way!

I'm sorry. Big sister Haruko sends her regards as well.

Quch... That hurt...

- We do bump into that person a lot. - He sure has an unforgettable face.

Oh my!

"The Female Pickpocket Who Lost Her Hometown", by Kosuke Gomu

"The Female Pickpocket Who Lost Her Hometown”, by Kosuke Gomu The nerve on him! I didn't even get a model fee.

The nerve on him! I didn't even get a model fee.

I shouldn't have given him that money back. Maybe I should charge him.

- Don't accept any money from this guy! - I'm not!

- It's a rightful claim, right? - I told you not to accept it!

Why not?

Because!

Why not?

Just because!

THE END

Subtitles by: bLoodZ and kagetsuhisoka