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These are the user uploaded subtitles that are being translated: 1 00:00:00,500 --> 00:00:11,930 The Toho Co Ltd Presents 2 00:00:12,620 --> 00:00:16,370 A Toho / Mifune Productions Presentation 3 00:00:17,340 --> 00:00:21,250 There are a total of thirty-six gates into Edo Castle. 4 00:00:21,420 --> 00:00:23,530 Eighteen of these cross the Outer Moat. 5 00:00:23,660 --> 00:00:25,530 The other eighteen cross the Inner Moat. 6 00:00:25,900 --> 00:00:30,090 In essence, they are the bottlenecks that control access to the Castle. 7 00:00:30,380 --> 00:00:31,970 The Daimyo enter the Castle through one of the gates... 8 00:00:32,140 --> 00:00:33,730 ...usually the one closest to their Edo mansions. 9 00:00:33,860 --> 00:00:36,650 Thus, each Daimyo has chosen one entrance as his favourite. 10 00:00:36,860 --> 00:00:39,370 The Lord of the Hikone Domain, and Great Elder of the Shogunate... 11 00:00:39,500 --> 00:00:41,610 ...Li "Kamonnokami" Naosuke... 12 00:00:41,780 --> 00:00:44,730 ...always enters through the Sakurada Gate. 13 00:00:56,980 --> 00:00:58,850 A hemp symbol in a circle...? 14 00:00:59,100 --> 00:01:03,450 That's Sir Satake lzuminokami from Nihonmatsu in Ooshuu. 15 00:01:03,900 --> 00:01:07,130 Sir Satake of Nihonmatsu in Ooshuu? I see. I see... 16 00:01:10,540 --> 00:01:15,050 Well, it's almost 8:30... The entourages using the Sakurada Gate should... 17 00:01:15,260 --> 00:01:18,050 Yes, sir. That's about it for now. 18 00:01:19,380 --> 00:01:22,740 - Here you go, sir. - Thank you. 19 00:01:22,740 --> 00:01:24,730 It's cold this morning. 20 00:01:24,980 --> 00:01:27,540 Well, Edo Castle blanketted in snow is a sight to see. 21 00:01:27,660 --> 00:01:30,330 Besides, for unemployed ronin like us... 22 00:01:30,500 --> 00:01:34,730 ...the opportunity to witness the Daimyo processions is a true delight. 23 00:01:34,980 --> 00:01:38,730 I hope that your wish to become an officer will come true soon. 24 00:01:59,700 --> 00:02:03,610 Today, Li Naosuke did not arrive at the Castle. 25 00:02:06,340 --> 00:02:09,650 By command of Commander Hoshino Kenmotsu... 26 00:02:09,860 --> 00:02:13,330 ...we retreat from the Sakurada Gate for the time being. 27 00:02:13,540 --> 00:02:17,290 It is the morning of February 17th, 1860... Nine in the morning. 28 00:02:19,380 --> 00:02:22,450 The 32 men who retreated from the Sakurada Gate... 29 00:02:22,620 --> 00:02:26,160 ...gather at Sagamiya, in Shinagawa. 30 00:02:26,340 --> 00:02:29,880 Sagamiya is a large teahouse suitable for meetings... 31 00:02:30,020 --> 00:02:32,850 ...and is listed in the "Edo Illustrated Map of Famous Places." 32 00:02:33,100 --> 00:02:36,410 Today is February 17th. 33 00:02:36,580 --> 00:02:39,170 It's our understanding that the Shogun's household and the high officials... 34 00:02:39,300 --> 00:02:42,010 ...will be holding a "Ongusoku lwai no Gi" armor ceremony... 35 00:02:42,180 --> 00:02:46,570 ...before Shogun lemochi's excursion to the countryside. 36 00:02:46,980 --> 00:02:52,100 Great Elder Li Naosuke had no reason not to show up at the Castle! 37 00:02:55,860 --> 00:02:57,970 Our plan was... 38 00:02:58,140 --> 00:03:02,530 ...elaborately developed, with the utmost care, so that it would be top secret. 39 00:03:02,660 --> 00:03:07,170 As such... it is unthinkable that there was an accidental disclosure... 40 00:03:07,340 --> 00:03:12,090 ...that would allow the House of Li to learn of our intentions! 41 00:03:12,300 --> 00:03:16,050 There must be a traitor among us. 42 00:03:16,220 --> 00:03:18,970 It's the only explanation that I can think of. 43 00:03:24,300 --> 00:03:28,050 We have been infiltrated by someone working for the House of li. 44 00:03:49,580 --> 00:03:55,730 Samurai Assassin 45 00:03:56,300 --> 00:03:58,890 Produced by Tanaka Tomoyuki 46 00:03:59,060 --> 00:04:01,570 Screenplay: Hashimoto Shinobu Based on the book "Samurai Nippon" by Gunji Jiromasa 47 00:04:01,780 --> 00:04:06,800 Photography: Murai Hiroshi Art Design: Akune lwao Music: Sato Masaru Mixing: ShimonagaHisashi 48 00:04:07,060 --> 00:04:12,130 Asst. Director: Yamamoto Yuzuuo Editing: Kuroiwa Yoshitami Fight Choreography: Kuze Ryu 49 00:04:12,340 --> 00:04:14,210 Starring: 50 00:04:14,380 --> 00:04:16,890 Mifune Toshiro 51 00:04:17,100 --> 00:04:20,250 Kobayashi Keiju - Aratama Michiyo lto Yunosuke 52 00:04:20,420 --> 00:04:24,250 Tono Eijiro - Ebara Tatsuyoshi Nakamaru Tadao - Yachigusa Kaoru 53 00:04:24,460 --> 00:04:28,970 Sugimura Haruko - Tamura Nami Otsuji Shiro - Inaba Yoshio Hirata Akihiko 54 00:04:29,140 --> 00:04:35,530 Amamoto Hideyo - Sawamura lkio Togin Chotaro - Ogawa Yasuzo Nihei Masaya - Kurosawa Toshio Tajima Yoshifumi - Ichikawa Koraizo 55 00:04:35,700 --> 00:04:43,280 Kirino Hiro-o - Yamamoto Yasushi Mukai Jun-ichiro - Iwamoto Koji Kusakawa Naoya - Tsutsumi Yasuhisa Hidaka Yurie - Tokita Fujio - Hasegawa Hiroshi 56 00:04:43,540 --> 00:04:47,970 Terashima Mitsugu - Shimura Takashi Fujita Susumu - Nakamura Shikaku Ichikawa Chusha - Kita Nagama Housei Kan 57 00:04:48,140 --> 00:04:50,650 Matsumoto Koshiro 58 00:04:50,860 --> 00:04:54,610 Directed by Okamoto Kihachi 59 00:04:54,940 --> 00:04:56,570 It's eleven in the morning. 60 00:04:56,740 --> 00:05:01,860 The meeting at Sagamiya ends. Three men choose to remain. 61 00:05:10,180 --> 00:05:12,690 So, it seems that... there's a traitor in our midst. 62 00:05:14,180 --> 00:05:16,970 Don't worry. It's nothing but the Chief's absurd speculation. 63 00:05:17,180 --> 00:05:19,770 Don't you worry. I have faith in us. 64 00:05:19,860 --> 00:05:22,130 I have more faith in your Jigen-lchi Style, Sir Tsuru... 65 00:05:22,300 --> 00:05:24,680 ...than I do in our leader's maneuverings. 66 00:05:24,900 --> 00:05:29,690 Right... Without any solid evidence, he's already talking about a "traitor"! 67 00:05:29,860 --> 00:05:33,610 We're supposed to be comrades, our lives all pledged to the same cause. 68 00:05:34,820 --> 00:05:38,860 - Come back again. - Thank you very much. 69 00:05:38,860 --> 00:05:42,170 - Please come again. - Sir, the baggage... Here you go, sir. 70 00:05:42,380 --> 00:05:45,010 What's wrong? 71 00:05:54,060 --> 00:05:56,850 I apologise for the disarray, sir... 72 00:05:58,940 --> 00:06:01,100 - I'm sorry to barge in like this... - Sir? 73 00:06:01,100 --> 00:06:06,120 - May I ask who you are? - Sir, I may not look like it, but... 74 00:06:06,340 --> 00:06:10,090 ...thanks to our generous patrons, I am the manager of Sagamiya. 75 00:06:20,420 --> 00:06:23,860 - What do they call you? - Sir? 76 00:06:23,860 --> 00:06:25,820 Your name. 77 00:06:25,820 --> 00:06:28,570 Sir, my name is Okiku. 78 00:06:29,140 --> 00:06:31,210 Okiku?! 79 00:06:31,620 --> 00:06:34,250 There's no doubt that he's a ronin, originally from Bishuu? 80 00:06:34,460 --> 00:06:41,650 Well, at least that's what he claims. Nobody has confirmed it yet. 81 00:06:41,860 --> 00:06:44,770 So, he lives in a mud hut by the Kamakura riverbed... 82 00:06:44,940 --> 00:06:47,610 ...works as a bouncer... a hired bodyguard... and extorts and blackmails? 83 00:06:47,780 --> 00:06:51,010 - He's a ruffian, indeed! - Yes, sir. 84 00:06:51,260 --> 00:06:54,730 Perhaps I got carried away about increasing our manpower. 85 00:06:54,900 --> 00:06:57,610 Seems I've hired someone we ought to suspect. 86 00:07:01,740 --> 00:07:05,650 Niiro isn't the only man we ought to watch. There's another suspect. 87 00:07:07,860 --> 00:07:10,370 Nobody important. One Kurihara Einosuke. 88 00:07:10,540 --> 00:07:14,690 He used to work for Matsudaira Sahyonosuke, the Yada Clan Chief in Joshu. 89 00:07:14,940 --> 00:07:18,810 I see... Matsudaira Sahyonosuke and Li Naosuke are... 90 00:07:18,980 --> 00:07:22,970 ...very close friends. That's a very obvious connection. 91 00:07:23,300 --> 00:07:27,610 Besides, it's... unusual that he's friends with Niiro. 92 00:07:27,820 --> 00:07:31,410 Sir Hoshino... Why not eliminate these two from our group, right now? 93 00:07:31,620 --> 00:07:34,410 No, wait... We can't possibly do that. 94 00:07:35,500 --> 00:07:37,410 These two... 95 00:07:37,540 --> 00:07:40,250 ...have become well acquainted with our other men... 96 00:07:40,340 --> 00:07:43,450 ...and many are undoubtedly loyal to them. 97 00:07:43,580 --> 00:07:47,010 It would be different, if they chose to leave on their own... 98 00:07:47,180 --> 00:07:52,690 ...but if we discharge them, it might send the wrong message to the men. 99 00:07:52,860 --> 00:07:56,090 Besides, these two... are no average swordsmen. 100 00:07:56,220 --> 00:07:58,650 So, they'll be very useful to us, if the need arises. 101 00:07:58,860 --> 00:08:01,130 But, if we don't do something... 102 00:08:01,340 --> 00:08:04,570 Go check their homes and backgrounds. Report on their activities in detail. 103 00:08:04,700 --> 00:08:07,730 And, if either turns out to be an infiltrator working for Li... 104 00:08:07,900 --> 00:08:09,970 ...or, if there's any reason for us to suspect them... 105 00:08:10,140 --> 00:08:12,930 ...then we'll slay them without mercy! 106 00:08:14,020 --> 00:08:16,320 The sooner we find out, the better. 107 00:08:16,500 --> 00:08:19,250 If we've been infiltrated by Li's agents... 108 00:08:19,420 --> 00:08:23,120 ...who knows how he'll strike against us, and when. 109 00:08:23,300 --> 00:08:26,370 We're dealing with the one they call the "Demon of Hikone", after all. 110 00:08:26,540 --> 00:08:31,610 He who instigated the vicious and merciless Ansei Purge. 111 00:08:32,500 --> 00:08:37,330 Well? So, what next? 112 00:08:37,540 --> 00:08:40,530 When will we attempt to carry out our mission again? 113 00:08:40,740 --> 00:08:43,120 As the saying goes, "Walls have ears, doors have eyes." 114 00:08:43,500 --> 00:08:45,610 Sir? 115 00:08:45,820 --> 00:08:48,570 It's not that I suspect you as well. 116 00:08:48,700 --> 00:08:52,290 But, only I should know the actual date for now. 117 00:08:52,460 --> 00:08:53,770 Yes. 118 00:08:53,900 --> 00:08:58,290 But, for the time being, let me tell you this... 119 00:08:58,460 --> 00:09:00,650 We won't be waiting for long. 120 00:09:01,820 --> 00:09:05,410 The date of the next attack has been decided upon. 121 00:09:05,540 --> 00:09:10,810 However, aside from Chief Hoshino Kenmotsu, nobody knows when... 122 00:09:10,980 --> 00:09:13,810 ...except that it will be in the very near future. 123 00:09:24,060 --> 00:09:25,810 So, you're telling me that... 124 00:09:26,060 --> 00:09:28,250 ...the suspects were gathered near the Inner Moat? 125 00:09:28,620 --> 00:09:32,890 Correct, sir. I estimate there were about thirty ronin, mostly of Mito origin. 126 00:09:33,100 --> 00:09:35,330 How were you able to determine that they were from Mito? 127 00:09:35,540 --> 00:09:36,850 Someone close to them must have... 128 00:09:37,020 --> 00:09:38,730 ...allowed an "exchange of information" to occur. 129 00:09:38,900 --> 00:09:42,010 That's the only plausible explanation. 130 00:09:42,100 --> 00:09:45,250 If we continue to let these rebels have their way... 131 00:09:45,380 --> 00:09:47,290 ...who knows what undesirable consequences await us? 132 00:09:47,460 --> 00:09:50,410 - We should strike at them now. - No... 133 00:09:50,500 --> 00:09:52,290 Sir? 134 00:09:52,460 --> 00:09:56,000 The Ansei Purge... was a bit harsh, in hindsight. 135 00:09:56,140 --> 00:09:58,570 That being the case, wouldn't we be repeating that error... 136 00:09:58,740 --> 00:10:00,370 ...if we attack them, based only on a suspicion? 137 00:10:00,620 --> 00:10:02,410 No, sir, it's not just a suspicion. 138 00:10:02,700 --> 00:10:05,260 Until they've actually done something, it's no more than a suspicion, isn't it? 139 00:10:05,460 --> 00:10:09,290 In that case, your processions must be more heavily guarded! 140 00:10:10,820 --> 00:10:15,530 The foundations of the Tokugawa Shogunate... aren't that weak! 141 00:10:27,500 --> 00:10:32,090 I didn't cancel my trip to the Castle today because of your concerns. 142 00:10:32,260 --> 00:10:36,090 I did it so I could meet the messenger who arrived this morning... 143 00:10:36,260 --> 00:10:39,450 ...and hear from him the current situation in Kyoto and Osaka. 144 00:10:39,580 --> 00:10:44,250 The Great Elder, assaulted by ronin, in broad daylight? 145 00:10:45,780 --> 00:10:48,730 How in the world could such a absurd thing happen? 146 00:10:48,860 --> 00:10:52,010 For 300 years, the authority and spirit of the Tokugawa have endured. 147 00:10:52,140 --> 00:10:53,850 It will never be so weak as to succumb to something as ludicrous as that! 148 00:11:00,860 --> 00:11:03,010 It sure feels like spring today! 149 00:11:03,220 --> 00:11:07,650 Sure does. It's already February 20th. So the good weather is no surprise. 150 00:11:07,780 --> 00:11:09,610 There must be a lot of visitors coming to Edo. 151 00:11:09,820 --> 00:11:12,610 We've a lot to be thankful for. 152 00:11:12,780 --> 00:11:15,340 By the way... have you found an appointment yet, or...? 153 00:11:15,540 --> 00:11:20,010 Well... nothing ever goes as one would hope. 154 00:11:21,500 --> 00:11:22,330 That must be Elder li, right? 155 00:11:22,580 --> 00:11:26,930 Yes. It's time for him to leave the Castle. 156 00:11:27,140 --> 00:11:29,290 Anytime you see him, he looks like a man full of vigor. 157 00:11:29,540 --> 00:11:34,050 Surely. He's the strong right hand of the Shogun, after all. 158 00:11:34,180 --> 00:11:38,370 If it weren't for him, our business wouldn't be prospering as it is. 159 00:11:38,500 --> 00:11:39,930 I have much to thank him for. 160 00:11:40,140 --> 00:11:43,890 As always, leading the procession of men are... 161 00:11:44,020 --> 00:11:48,370 ...Nishikawa Chuuzaemon and about thirty of his aides. 162 00:11:48,540 --> 00:11:52,210 With their guards, they totalled approximately sixty in all. 163 00:11:52,420 --> 00:11:56,010 The procession, and the number of men, hasn't changed. 164 00:11:56,180 --> 00:11:58,770 It's said that there's a spy among the men... 165 00:11:58,940 --> 00:12:00,660 ...but, could it really be true? 166 00:12:00,660 --> 00:12:02,410 Mito Mansion ...but, could it really be true? 167 00:12:02,580 --> 00:12:06,090 To investigate Niiro Tsuruchiyo's abode, a meeting is held... 168 00:12:06,220 --> 00:12:09,810 ...between Inada Juzo and two other men. It is February 21st. 169 00:12:10,220 --> 00:12:12,680 His home is a dishevelled and bare hut built out of mud... 170 00:12:12,900 --> 00:12:15,690 ...by the Kanda-Kamakura riverbed, in a little-traveled area. 171 00:12:24,100 --> 00:12:25,930 What does he do to earn his three meals a day? 172 00:12:26,140 --> 00:12:29,290 - Sir? - What does he do for living? 173 00:12:29,500 --> 00:12:34,050 Sir, from what I can gather, he doesn't have a steady job. 174 00:12:34,220 --> 00:12:35,530 If one could call it an occupation... 175 00:12:35,700 --> 00:12:39,050 ...he bodyguards for Bizenya Tatsukichi, an employment agent in Fujimi Village. 176 00:12:39,300 --> 00:12:43,290 We know that a monster like you is working here! 177 00:12:43,500 --> 00:12:47,250 We'd like to save face... but, no, not for this pittance! 178 00:12:48,860 --> 00:12:51,130 So, it's a pittance. What're you gonna do about it? 179 00:12:51,340 --> 00:12:54,130 This is what I'll do! 180 00:12:57,740 --> 00:12:59,970 Go back where you came from, you pest! 181 00:13:00,140 --> 00:13:02,930 Or we'll break your arm right off! 182 00:13:36,740 --> 00:13:38,850 So, he's quite capable. 183 00:13:39,020 --> 00:13:41,210 And seems to be an extremely dangerous bodyguard at that. 184 00:13:41,660 --> 00:13:43,770 Surely, sir. 185 00:13:43,900 --> 00:13:48,330 Still, I doubt he can afford to eat three times a day on what Bizenya pays. 186 00:13:48,460 --> 00:13:51,410 Certainly, he couldn't afford the booze that he loves. 187 00:13:51,580 --> 00:13:54,970 So, he referees matches, and raids gambling houses and dojo. 188 00:13:55,140 --> 00:13:58,610 He's more or less a blackmailer. 189 00:13:58,700 --> 00:14:02,130 He'll do anything but steal and murder, so he can indulge in wine and women. 190 00:14:02,380 --> 00:14:03,770 What about family ties? 191 00:14:03,980 --> 00:14:10,370 Sir, there was his mother... but she passed away five years ago. 192 00:14:10,580 --> 00:14:13,570 - Mother died five years ago, eh? - Yes, sir. 193 00:14:14,700 --> 00:14:18,810 So... how did this monster become one of us? 194 00:14:19,020 --> 00:14:21,690 Sir... what happened was... 195 00:14:43,900 --> 00:14:46,460 - May you rest in peace... - Your deaths won't be forgotten! 196 00:14:46,460 --> 00:14:49,330 We swear we'll behead "Red Devil" li! 197 00:16:22,860 --> 00:16:25,690 Run for it! Follow me! 198 00:16:41,060 --> 00:16:44,930 - You're all with the House of Mito, right? - Yes, sir. 199 00:16:48,300 --> 00:16:52,330 A foot-soldier: 10-koku and 3 retainers. 200 00:16:52,500 --> 00:16:56,490 An aide to the Commissioner of Shrines: 3-ryo and 2 retainers. 201 00:16:56,660 --> 00:17:00,970 An aide to a District Commissioner: 7-koku and 2 retainers. 202 00:17:01,820 --> 00:17:05,210 You're nothing but a bunch of superfluous lackeys. 203 00:17:05,380 --> 00:17:07,250 I was hoping that at least one of you was an Elder's son... 204 00:17:07,420 --> 00:17:09,690 ...or the son of a troop leader... 205 00:17:09,780 --> 00:17:12,010 ...I guess I was wrong. - Sir? 206 00:17:12,260 --> 00:17:15,450 So the reason Tsuruchiyo helped them was because... 207 00:17:15,580 --> 00:17:18,610 ...if one of them turned out to be an important figure... 208 00:17:18,780 --> 00:17:20,650 ...he could extort a large sum of money? 209 00:17:20,860 --> 00:17:23,160 No... that wasn't it... 210 00:17:23,500 --> 00:17:27,610 "Built with utmost care..." but the Ecchuu Loincloth, upon completion, falls apart. 211 00:17:27,820 --> 00:17:29,170 Huh? 212 00:17:29,420 --> 00:17:33,570 Well, you see... If one of you were somebody significant, then... 213 00:17:33,700 --> 00:17:35,610 ...I could've asked for a reward for saving you. 214 00:17:35,780 --> 00:17:40,570 I could've used that chance to obtain a position, but... 215 00:17:40,700 --> 00:17:44,090 The Ecchuu Loincloth must've fallen apart! 216 00:17:46,220 --> 00:17:52,090 Well... as we are of low rank, we really don't have any way to thank you. 217 00:17:52,860 --> 00:17:55,530 No matter how much searching you do around Edo... 218 00:17:55,660 --> 00:17:59,010 ...it's impossible to stumble upon a truly sweet opportunity. 219 00:17:59,140 --> 00:18:01,490 So you see, from now on... 220 00:18:01,660 --> 00:18:04,970 ...if you aren't a high-ranking officer somewhere... you're doomed. 221 00:18:05,140 --> 00:18:09,450 But... you're such a swordsman that any Daimyo house would want you. 222 00:18:09,700 --> 00:18:14,330 Don't be ridiculous. You're all men with meagre positions in life... 223 00:18:14,420 --> 00:18:18,970 ...but you still don't know the hardships of being a ronin. 224 00:18:19,060 --> 00:18:23,770 You have no idea to what extremes I've sunk... I've done everything I can. 225 00:18:23,940 --> 00:18:27,170 Skills alone won't get you anywhere. 226 00:18:27,380 --> 00:18:30,920 - I wonder if what you're saying is true. - By the way, fellows... 227 00:18:31,180 --> 00:18:35,330 ...you were saying some rather serious things back there in Nihonbashi. 228 00:18:35,460 --> 00:18:40,010 About beheading Elder li, or something to that effect. 229 00:18:40,180 --> 00:18:43,530 But, you know... that's pretty interesting. 230 00:18:43,700 --> 00:18:45,810 Certainly interesting, if you're really serious about doing it. 231 00:18:46,220 --> 00:18:48,930 Sir, what you're saying is very odd. 232 00:18:49,100 --> 00:18:51,170 Still, you wouldn't have saved us... 233 00:18:51,340 --> 00:18:53,370 ...if you didn't resent Elder li's arbitrary conduct. 234 00:18:53,580 --> 00:18:56,650 I've got nothing to do with him, no connections whatsoever! 235 00:18:56,820 --> 00:18:59,010 I hold no grudge against him, nor am I indebted to him. 236 00:18:59,180 --> 00:19:02,010 - He's a complete stranger to me. - No, that can't be so! 237 00:19:02,220 --> 00:19:06,850 Otherwise, why help? If you got caught, you'd be in prison along with us! 238 00:19:07,060 --> 00:19:09,890 You bunch of rockheads! 239 00:19:11,180 --> 00:19:14,930 Sure, Li Naosuke is indeed the "Red Devil"... 240 00:19:15,060 --> 00:19:17,130 ...from your viewpoint as men of Mito. 241 00:19:17,300 --> 00:19:21,130 But it's different, for someone like me, who's got no connection to him. 242 00:19:21,300 --> 00:19:24,490 The reason there's been a lot of political crap these last few years... 243 00:19:24,620 --> 00:19:27,370 ...is because the Tokugawa and their allies are scheming... 244 00:19:27,500 --> 00:19:33,130 ...about who'll be the next Shogun, that is. Isn't that so? 245 00:19:34,060 --> 00:19:38,530 The House of Mito wants Nariaki's son, Yoshinobu, to be the next Shogun. 246 00:19:38,660 --> 00:19:42,010 And, you want Nariaki to live in the Castle's Nishinomaru Quarters... 247 00:19:42,180 --> 00:19:44,740 ...so that he can rule the nation. - B... But... 248 00:19:45,060 --> 00:19:48,760 Listen to me until I'm done! 249 00:19:48,940 --> 00:19:52,330 Everything seemed to be set, then he stepped forward to oppose you. 250 00:19:52,500 --> 00:19:55,410 That was Li Naosuke, the Lord of Hikone. 251 00:19:55,540 --> 00:19:58,450 He used his post as the Great Elder to bring to... 252 00:19:58,580 --> 00:20:01,970 ...Edo Castle a 13-year old, one Yoshitomi, from the House of Kii... 253 00:20:02,100 --> 00:20:06,290 ...and basically made him the 14th Shogun, lemochi. 254 00:20:06,460 --> 00:20:09,690 The infuriated, uncalmable Mito faction allied with... 255 00:20:09,860 --> 00:20:13,290 ...clans from Satsuma and Choshuu who shared the same feelings of outrage... 256 00:20:13,420 --> 00:20:15,130 ...and won the support of officials in Kyoto... 257 00:20:15,220 --> 00:20:17,130 ...who then brought the matter to the attention of the Emperor. 258 00:20:17,300 --> 00:20:19,600 Once the Emperor learned of this... he declared that... 259 00:20:19,780 --> 00:20:24,850 ...the Shogunate, that is, Li Naosuke's achievement, was far from desirable. 260 00:20:25,020 --> 00:20:29,210 And so, it was Li Naosuke's turn to be most imperially enraged. 261 00:20:29,380 --> 00:20:31,940 He discharged the officials that worked for the Emperor... 262 00:20:32,060 --> 00:20:34,360 ...and arrested men from Mito and Satsuma... 263 00:20:34,500 --> 00:20:38,280 ...sent them to prison, beheaded them, and so forth. 264 00:20:39,420 --> 00:20:42,250 This was the so-called "Ansei Purge." 265 00:20:42,380 --> 00:20:44,250 Well? Did I get any of it wrong? 266 00:20:48,180 --> 00:20:52,770 Indeed. There's truth in what you've said, sir. 267 00:20:52,940 --> 00:20:56,250 But, there's something important that you've overlooked. 268 00:20:56,460 --> 00:20:58,250 Say what?! 269 00:20:58,420 --> 00:21:01,050 Consider Shogun lemochi, only 14-years old, of the House of Kii. 270 00:21:01,140 --> 00:21:03,850 The question is, can he save Japan from the crisis it faces?! 271 00:21:03,980 --> 00:21:06,570 From the North comes Russia, from the East, America. 272 00:21:06,700 --> 00:21:09,000 From the West come England and France. 273 00:21:09,180 --> 00:21:12,290 Should He make one little error, what'll happen to Japan then?! 274 00:21:12,420 --> 00:21:14,490 We must destroy Li Naosuke, the Devil, immediately... 275 00:21:14,620 --> 00:21:17,290 ...and make the Glorious Hitotsubashi Yoshinobu Shogun. 276 00:21:17,460 --> 00:21:19,170 We must rebuild the Shogunate as quickly as possible, or... 277 00:21:19,300 --> 00:21:20,890 ...we'll be allowing the Emperor to be disgraced as well! 278 00:21:21,140 --> 00:21:23,810 We aren't just concerned about who will be the next Shogun... 279 00:21:24,060 --> 00:21:26,850 That's enough. 280 00:21:29,220 --> 00:21:31,010 Imperialists, Anti-Shogunate or whatever... 281 00:21:31,140 --> 00:21:35,290 ...it does me no good to listen to lame arguments like these. 282 00:21:35,460 --> 00:21:39,850 What matters is whether... you truly intend to kill Naosuke... 283 00:21:40,020 --> 00:21:42,250 ...or are you just all talk? 284 00:21:46,060 --> 00:21:50,330 If you're planning to do it, then count me in. 285 00:21:50,500 --> 00:21:53,250 Li Naosuke's head is easily worth a thousand ryo. 286 00:21:53,420 --> 00:21:57,490 I'll do my best, demonstrate my skill... and then I'll have his head! 287 00:21:58,820 --> 00:22:02,090 That way, Mito, Satsuma, or Choshuu... one of them... 288 00:22:02,260 --> 00:22:05,050 ...will want to engage me, at a high price. 289 00:22:05,180 --> 00:22:08,010 That much is true, without a doubt! 290 00:22:09,860 --> 00:22:12,530 So... sir, what is your name? 291 00:22:12,740 --> 00:22:15,450 Huh? 292 00:22:15,580 --> 00:22:18,970 Niiro Tsuruchiyo. Formerly of Bishuu clan, now a ronin. 293 00:22:21,220 --> 00:22:23,520 So, he joined us because... 294 00:22:23,700 --> 00:22:27,610 ...he wants to become a legitimate samurai... Just that? 295 00:22:27,820 --> 00:22:32,410 Correct, sir. During our mission, he will do his best for the cause... 296 00:22:32,580 --> 00:22:35,170 ...and after we succeed, he'll request that the Mito, or another clan... 297 00:22:35,300 --> 00:22:37,490 ...grant him a position. 298 00:22:37,620 --> 00:22:39,450 That is his only motivation, sir. 299 00:22:39,700 --> 00:22:46,040 At sunset that day, Hagiiwara Matasaburo reports on... 300 00:22:46,220 --> 00:22:49,290 ...the living conditions of Kurihara Einosuke, the other suspect. 301 00:22:51,860 --> 00:22:53,450 Thank you for your hard work. 302 00:22:53,660 --> 00:22:55,930 Sir, Kurihara Einosuke's home is situated in... 303 00:22:56,140 --> 00:23:00,170 ...Honjo-Koume, where liege vassals and rich merchants maintain second homes. 304 00:23:00,380 --> 00:23:02,450 Oh? Honjo-Koume? 305 00:23:19,820 --> 00:23:21,890 Kurihara was once a retainer in the employ of... 306 00:23:22,060 --> 00:23:23,970 ...Matsudaira Sahyonosuke, the chief of the Yada clan in Joshu... 307 00:23:24,100 --> 00:23:26,330 ...and his stipend was more than 300-koku. 308 00:23:26,580 --> 00:23:28,650 300-koku? He must've been an important man. 309 00:23:30,660 --> 00:23:33,570 As close to his Clan Lord as Kurihara was... 310 00:23:33,740 --> 00:23:36,250 ...as important as he was... 311 00:23:36,420 --> 00:23:40,410 ...why did he leave his clan, become a ronin, and join us? 312 00:23:40,660 --> 00:23:42,730 That, sir, we don't know for sure... 313 00:23:42,900 --> 00:23:45,570 ...but according to Yamamoto, a close confidante of his... 314 00:23:45,700 --> 00:23:48,050 ...Kurihara is an exceptional, avid scholar, who... 315 00:23:48,220 --> 00:23:50,850 ...is well-read in Western philosophy. - Oh? 316 00:23:51,060 --> 00:23:53,010 Based on his studies, he strongly believes that... 317 00:23:53,180 --> 00:23:57,450 ...unless Elder Li is destroyed, Japan will not see the dawn of a new era. 318 00:23:57,700 --> 00:23:59,450 Uh-huh... 319 00:23:59,620 --> 00:24:05,050 His scholarly studies lead him to believe that the death of Li is imperative? 320 00:24:05,260 --> 00:24:07,410 That, sir, is what Yamamoto has told me. 321 00:24:07,580 --> 00:24:08,970 Uh-huh. 322 00:24:09,140 --> 00:24:10,850 By the way, this Kurihara... 323 00:24:10,980 --> 00:24:14,130 ...as he is no longer an aide to his Clan Lord... 324 00:24:14,260 --> 00:24:16,250 ...how, then, can he afford to live in such a noteworthy mansion? 325 00:24:16,540 --> 00:24:19,130 Sir, as for that... 326 00:24:19,300 --> 00:24:23,930 ...his wife, Mitsu, happens to be the daughter of Kagaya Seibei... 327 00:24:24,100 --> 00:24:25,690 ...a shipping agent in Shinmachi, near Shiba Shiodome Bridge. 328 00:24:25,860 --> 00:24:28,240 The mansion is Seibei's second home. 329 00:24:31,260 --> 00:24:35,210 Thus, Kurihara's leisurely lifestyle in the mansion... 330 00:24:35,380 --> 00:24:38,170 ...is not, I believe, grounds to suspect anything. 331 00:24:55,500 --> 00:24:58,370 And so, Kurihara Einosuke can spend his days focusing his mind... 332 00:24:58,540 --> 00:25:02,080 ...on scholarship... and swordmanship. 333 00:25:02,420 --> 00:25:06,650 I can well appreciate that he's absorbed in his studies... 334 00:25:06,820 --> 00:25:08,570 ...but, "swordmanship?" 335 00:25:08,860 --> 00:25:12,400 Yes, sir. In Okachi Village, in Shitaya, one Tachibana Isshinsai runs... 336 00:25:12,540 --> 00:25:15,370 ...a dojo, specialising in the Nen Style. 337 00:25:22,620 --> 00:25:25,650 Now, this Kurihara Einosuke, and Niiro Tsuruchiyo... 338 00:25:25,820 --> 00:25:28,010 ...I hear that the two are on very good terms. 339 00:25:28,220 --> 00:25:29,930 Yes, that's correct, sir. 340 00:25:30,140 --> 00:25:33,410 Their personalities and lifestyles make them complete opposites. 341 00:25:33,620 --> 00:25:37,730 How could they possibly get along so well...? How? 342 00:25:37,940 --> 00:25:39,890 Well, I wondered about that myself, sir. 343 00:25:40,060 --> 00:25:42,010 A comrade named Kojima Kaname ought to know the answer... 344 00:25:42,180 --> 00:25:44,450 ...as he's especially close to Niiro Tsuruchiyo. 345 00:25:44,580 --> 00:25:47,610 You should definitely hear what Kojima has to say, sir. 346 00:25:54,460 --> 00:25:57,730 - In December of last year, eh? - Yes, sir. 347 00:25:57,940 --> 00:25:59,970 It was close to the New Year. 348 00:26:00,140 --> 00:26:02,440 Having become uneasy about the advent of the New Year... 349 00:26:02,580 --> 00:26:04,730 ...Niiro headed to Tachibana Isshinsai's dojo in Okachi Village in Shitaya... 350 00:26:04,860 --> 00:26:07,370 ...after discussions with his fellow rogue ronin. 351 00:26:07,580 --> 00:26:11,650 - For what purpose? - Sir... it was for Dojo-harassment. 352 00:26:14,020 --> 00:26:16,130 Not good... 353 00:26:16,300 --> 00:26:18,130 Not good... 354 00:26:22,020 --> 00:26:23,970 That will be all. 355 00:26:24,180 --> 00:26:26,970 Wait! 356 00:26:29,780 --> 00:26:32,530 We've accommodated enough outside styles for today. Please leave. 357 00:26:32,740 --> 00:26:34,290 Impossible! 358 00:26:34,460 --> 00:26:37,490 Here I stand. 359 00:26:39,380 --> 00:26:44,290 I believe that... I've clearly demonstrated our strengths to your four friends. 360 00:26:45,260 --> 00:26:49,810 If you want to brag, you ought to wait until you've finished dueling with me. 361 00:26:50,940 --> 00:26:53,370 It seems I have no choice. Very well then, please prepare yourself. 362 00:26:53,620 --> 00:26:57,570 - I'm ready right now! - What?! 363 00:27:35,420 --> 00:27:39,570 'Twas... a long duel... that left us speechless with admiration... 364 00:27:39,740 --> 00:27:42,410 ...but, in the end... 365 00:27:42,540 --> 00:27:44,490 Their skills were perfectly matched, so... 366 00:27:44,620 --> 00:27:46,490 ...if they continued, the result would have been a simultaneous strike... 367 00:27:46,620 --> 00:27:50,970 ...and both would have suffered grievous injuries. 368 00:27:51,140 --> 00:27:54,370 So, the match was concluded. 369 00:27:54,620 --> 00:27:57,450 If I may so ask... that is Jigen-lchi-Style, isn't it? 370 00:27:58,340 --> 00:28:00,130 That is correct. 371 00:28:00,260 --> 00:28:04,130 Your Nen Style... seems rather useful. 372 00:28:04,300 --> 00:28:06,760 I haven't had this good of a workout in a while. 373 00:28:09,500 --> 00:28:11,930 After that, the two rapidly became close friends. 374 00:28:12,100 --> 00:28:16,530 Occasionally, Niiro would visit Kurihara's mansion in Honjo-Koume. 375 00:28:16,660 --> 00:28:19,410 Actually, I personally accompanied him once or twice. 376 00:28:28,900 --> 00:28:32,090 He laughed! He laughed! 377 00:28:32,220 --> 00:28:35,410 The son of Kurihara Einosuke... Eiichiro, eh? 378 00:28:35,580 --> 00:28:38,930 What a fine name it is! A fine name, indeed! 379 00:28:39,100 --> 00:28:43,170 Eiichiro... You're so lucky to have such wonderful parents! 380 00:28:43,380 --> 00:28:45,450 Sir Niiro, do you have children yet? 381 00:28:45,700 --> 00:28:48,890 Huh? I may not look like it, but I'm very much blessed! 382 00:28:49,060 --> 00:28:51,970 - Sir? - Twelve sons, twelve girls... 383 00:28:52,140 --> 00:28:56,170 - Twenty, in all! - Surely you're joking! 384 00:28:57,460 --> 00:29:01,080 Well, not only don't I have kids, but I don't even have a wife. 385 00:29:01,340 --> 00:29:05,530 I didn't realise... I'm sorry. 386 00:29:05,660 --> 00:29:08,690 How about your parents? Are they alive? 387 00:29:08,900 --> 00:29:11,770 I did have a mother, but she left this world five years ago. 388 00:29:11,980 --> 00:29:15,250 I'm so sorry. 389 00:29:15,460 --> 00:29:18,170 That old fool... I constantly gave her a hard time when she was alive. 390 00:29:18,380 --> 00:29:21,010 Sir? 391 00:29:21,220 --> 00:29:24,490 You see, I have no idea who my father is. 392 00:29:25,780 --> 00:29:29,400 - He doesn't know his father? - Correct, sir. 393 00:29:40,900 --> 00:29:42,290 By the way, Kojima... 394 00:29:42,420 --> 00:29:47,210 How could such a fatherless fellow... be a Bishuu ronin? Do you know? 395 00:29:47,460 --> 00:29:51,330 Sir Hoshino... I do not mean to be disrespectful to you, sir... 396 00:29:51,500 --> 00:29:54,530 ...but Niiro is not a spy for the House of li. 397 00:29:54,700 --> 00:29:57,050 That... I, Kojima Kaname, personally attest! 398 00:29:57,260 --> 00:30:00,090 If you can't determine the answer, then we'll have someone else find out. 399 00:30:00,300 --> 00:30:01,050 But, Sir Sumida... 400 00:30:01,260 --> 00:30:03,640 You were, after all, assigned the duty of watching the others... 401 00:30:03,820 --> 00:30:06,650 ...yet, you've not once passed on anything concerning Niiro! 402 00:30:06,820 --> 00:30:09,610 What exactly have you been doing every day?! 403 00:30:10,900 --> 00:30:13,930 Just what's Niiro been up to, since our last meeting?! 404 00:30:15,140 --> 00:30:17,890 Sir, the truth is that... 405 00:30:18,020 --> 00:30:20,890 ...well... lately... 406 00:30:21,020 --> 00:30:24,610 ...since the February 17th plan was called off... 407 00:30:24,740 --> 00:30:29,650 ...er... our comrades congregated at Sagamiya in Shinagawa... 408 00:30:29,820 --> 00:30:33,970 ...where we had an official meeting. - We know that already! 409 00:30:34,180 --> 00:30:36,890 Ever since then... Niiro has been staying at Sagamiya... 410 00:30:37,060 --> 00:30:39,620 ...and refuses to leave, no matter what we do! 411 00:30:39,940 --> 00:30:46,410 "Botamochi during the Bon Festival..." 412 00:30:46,540 --> 00:30:54,370 "Udon-noodles during the day..." 413 00:30:59,300 --> 00:31:01,290 Get Okiku! Okiku, I said! 414 00:31:01,540 --> 00:31:04,330 Here, now! Have some sake! 415 00:31:08,820 --> 00:31:14,250 I'm not staying here so I can look at your ugly gourd of a face! 416 00:31:14,420 --> 00:31:17,130 Get your boss! Get Okiku! 417 00:31:22,260 --> 00:31:25,410 Madam! How many days do we have to put up with him?! 418 00:31:25,580 --> 00:31:28,970 We gotta get him to go! I'm going to call in the Constabulary! 419 00:31:29,220 --> 00:31:32,810 But you know... 420 00:31:32,940 --> 00:31:36,250 ...if the Constabulary comes around, business will suffer. 421 00:31:36,500 --> 00:31:41,520 "Botamochi during the Bon Festival..." 422 00:31:41,700 --> 00:31:51,450 "Udon-noodles during the day..." 423 00:31:51,580 --> 00:32:00,320 "Have rice at night..." 424 00:32:00,580 --> 00:32:04,970 My... my... if it isn't the arrival of the Ocean Princess! 425 00:32:27,860 --> 00:32:30,700 - Sir Niiro... - What is it? 426 00:32:30,700 --> 00:32:33,130 You've been here far too long, sir. 427 00:32:33,380 --> 00:32:36,490 Your family must be worried about you. 428 00:32:36,660 --> 00:32:41,900 - Mind your own business! - I must say this, forgive my rudeness... 429 00:32:41,900 --> 00:32:42,810 Say what?! 430 00:32:43,060 --> 00:32:48,250 Because you arrived with my long-time patrons, the gentlemen of Mito... 431 00:32:48,420 --> 00:32:51,850 ...I realised that I couldn't possibly be impolite to you, until today. 432 00:32:51,980 --> 00:32:56,130 But... I ask that you settle your account for the time being... 433 00:32:56,220 --> 00:33:00,410 ...as financial matters need to be taken care of. 434 00:33:00,620 --> 00:33:03,450 So what if you need to take care of financial matters?! 435 00:33:03,700 --> 00:33:05,690 I'd like you to pay what you owe us, and... 436 00:33:05,820 --> 00:33:09,410 ...kindly ask that you return home for the time being. 437 00:33:09,540 --> 00:33:12,330 If our Sagamiya is to your liking, then... 438 00:33:12,500 --> 00:33:15,290 ...please come back again at a later date. 439 00:33:18,300 --> 00:33:21,090 Since you demand it of me, I will leave. 440 00:33:24,500 --> 00:33:27,970 But, let me tell you, lady... I've got no money! 441 00:33:29,020 --> 00:33:32,640 But... if you tell me that... 442 00:33:32,780 --> 00:33:34,650 ...you'll be in trouble if I don't pay... 443 00:33:34,780 --> 00:33:37,370 ...then I guarantee that I'll get the money... 444 00:33:37,460 --> 00:33:39,450 ...after I leave, that is. 445 00:33:40,340 --> 00:33:42,970 Please don't be concerned about the bill, sir. 446 00:33:43,060 --> 00:33:45,090 I merely ask that you leave. 447 00:33:47,500 --> 00:33:51,690 - You're so aloof... - Oh! Wh... What are you doing...? 448 00:33:57,420 --> 00:34:00,650 So aloof... 449 00:34:00,820 --> 00:34:04,520 Listen you, sooner or later... I will become... 450 00:34:04,660 --> 00:34:08,130 ...a full-fledged, two-sword retainer with four or five-hundred koku in income! 451 00:34:08,300 --> 00:34:13,240 When that happens, Okiku... I will come here, to make you my wife! 452 00:34:14,260 --> 00:34:16,210 Enough kidding around! 453 00:34:16,380 --> 00:34:18,170 If you don't stop, I will be forced to call in the Constables! 454 00:34:27,020 --> 00:34:31,090 Lady... how much do I owe ya? 455 00:34:31,300 --> 00:34:33,570 I don't care about that! 456 00:34:33,660 --> 00:34:36,450 However, I ask that you never come here again! 457 00:34:39,860 --> 00:34:43,250 As long as I pay, I'm a customer. 458 00:34:43,420 --> 00:34:49,450 No... perhaps it is you who owe me money, lady. 459 00:34:51,380 --> 00:34:57,210 Listen, Okiku... I've become like this... like a stray dog... because of you. 460 00:35:40,100 --> 00:35:44,410 Kisoya's 461 00:35:44,660 --> 00:35:47,810 Tell your boss, Masagoro. He'll understand. 462 00:35:47,940 --> 00:35:49,690 Tell him that Tsuruchiyo is here. 463 00:35:49,900 --> 00:35:52,010 "Sir Tsuruchiyo?" 464 00:35:54,660 --> 00:35:57,120 That's Niiro Tsuruchiyo! 465 00:36:07,620 --> 00:36:13,290 It's been five years, hasn't it? Since the last time I saw you. 466 00:36:13,540 --> 00:36:16,610 You look healthy, at least from what I can see. 467 00:36:16,860 --> 00:36:20,330 - Isn't that obvious? - But, it's so disgraceful... 468 00:36:20,540 --> 00:36:23,730 Your mother would be so saddened, if she were still alive. 469 00:36:23,980 --> 00:36:27,330 Stop talking about my mother! 470 00:36:27,460 --> 00:36:32,480 - I've come here to discuss money! - No, it cannot be. 471 00:36:35,060 --> 00:36:40,000 Kisoya... you and my mother were two of a kind. Don't try acting otherwise. 472 00:36:40,780 --> 00:36:46,130 Indeed, two of a kind... that was your mother and I. 473 00:36:46,300 --> 00:36:50,730 We sacrificed everything to help you become an honorable samurai. 474 00:36:50,900 --> 00:36:55,130 We encouraged you to excel in swordsmanship... and academics... 475 00:36:55,260 --> 00:36:58,250 My... And, look what happened... 476 00:36:58,500 --> 00:37:02,250 But, these five years that I've had to live alone... I've learned a lot. 477 00:37:04,380 --> 00:37:07,090 I left the path of the samurai once... 478 00:37:07,220 --> 00:37:10,250 ...but it made me realise how cold society can be. 479 00:37:10,420 --> 00:37:16,810 Anyway, these days, you either become a merchant like you and save money, or... 480 00:37:16,980 --> 00:37:21,010 ...become a respectable samurai and strut around! 481 00:37:21,140 --> 00:37:24,970 That is, if you've got any desire to live like a human being. 482 00:37:25,100 --> 00:37:27,450 But, I can't imagine being a merchant or craftsman. 483 00:37:27,660 --> 00:37:32,930 - Of course not! Not you! - There you go again, just like mother did! 484 00:37:33,100 --> 00:37:35,090 If there's really samurai blood in me, as you've always said... 485 00:37:35,220 --> 00:37:37,370 ...then why can't you tell me who my father is?! 486 00:37:40,940 --> 00:37:46,210 I'm not a kid anymore... It's no use trying to hide it! 487 00:37:46,380 --> 00:37:48,490 But, let me say this... 488 00:37:48,660 --> 00:37:53,680 ...l've had it... with living like a lone wolf! 489 00:37:53,860 --> 00:37:57,730 I'll... I'll become... 490 00:37:57,860 --> 00:38:01,370 ...a real, spear-carrying samurai. - Huh? 491 00:38:01,540 --> 00:38:08,130 I'll become more important than you or my mother ever was. 492 00:38:09,740 --> 00:38:11,730 I'm about to get involved in a fateful undertaking... 493 00:38:11,860 --> 00:38:15,370 ...not just that... it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! 494 00:38:15,540 --> 00:38:18,690 I'll keep on top of this opportunity... 495 00:38:18,820 --> 00:38:20,890 ...and I'll never let go of it, even if lightning strikes me! 496 00:38:21,140 --> 00:38:25,290 Sir Tsuruchiyo... what exactly are you referring to?! 497 00:38:25,500 --> 00:38:27,800 Forget it. Forget it... 498 00:38:27,940 --> 00:38:34,040 I'll tell you about it someday... when I return with four or five vassals in tow. 499 00:38:34,220 --> 00:38:38,090 Today's topic is money! 500 00:38:38,340 --> 00:38:40,130 10-ryo! 501 00:38:40,340 --> 00:38:42,410 - I must object, sir. - What? 502 00:38:42,620 --> 00:38:46,970 You say you've suffered greatly... but you don't know what suffering is! 503 00:38:47,140 --> 00:38:50,920 The reason you've become this way, Sir Tsuruchiyo, is because... 504 00:38:51,100 --> 00:38:54,640 ...we always pampered you, perhaps too much! 505 00:38:58,060 --> 00:39:00,130 Kisoya... so you're not going to give me money...? 506 00:39:00,340 --> 00:39:04,290 If that's not to your liking, then force open my safe yourself! 507 00:39:04,540 --> 00:39:07,650 You've not been to this mansion in five years... 508 00:39:07,820 --> 00:39:11,690 ...yet as soon as you do, look what happens! 509 00:39:11,820 --> 00:39:15,330 On top of it, you come up with some fantastic story... 510 00:39:15,500 --> 00:39:18,210 "If I go to Kisoya's, I can get money, no matter what." 511 00:39:18,340 --> 00:39:20,850 You always behaved like a spoiled brat! You haven't changed a bit! 512 00:39:20,980 --> 00:39:23,890 I, Kisoya Masagoro, refuse to give you a single mon! 513 00:39:31,380 --> 00:39:36,090 If you're not going to pay... then I'll just have to ask my creditor to come here. 514 00:42:09,700 --> 00:42:13,450 I must say that what I saw today was splendid. 515 00:42:13,620 --> 00:42:16,650 Shichidayu Dances... Always a delight to see. 516 00:42:16,900 --> 00:42:18,970 When people say something is "out of this world", this is what they mean. 517 00:42:19,100 --> 00:42:20,970 They've all dedicated their lives to their craft. 518 00:42:21,100 --> 00:42:24,570 It's the excellence achieved only by those devoted to a single thing. 519 00:42:24,820 --> 00:42:25,980 However... 520 00:42:25,980 --> 00:42:26,850 Huh? 521 00:42:27,060 --> 00:42:29,410 Why did you choose an evocative piece as the "Kurozuka?" 522 00:42:29,580 --> 00:42:33,090 Well, as I would be watching the play with you, Sir Sahyonosuke... 523 00:42:33,260 --> 00:42:35,410 ...I thought that we ought to watch something joyous and gorgeous... 524 00:42:35,580 --> 00:42:39,280 ...but, it's disheartening that you see it only as an evocatory piece! 525 00:42:39,540 --> 00:42:43,850 If you put it that way, I must not say what I was about to say. 526 00:42:44,100 --> 00:42:48,690 No need for such formality. Please speak your mind. 527 00:42:49,540 --> 00:42:52,650 A unit of Mito's Tengu Faction has assembled... 528 00:42:52,820 --> 00:42:54,650 ...and they've filtered into our district. 529 00:42:54,940 --> 00:42:56,730 Yes, I'm aware of that. 530 00:42:56,940 --> 00:43:02,530 They pose as Mito vassals, and can use the Mito Mansion in Koishikawa. 531 00:43:02,660 --> 00:43:05,610 From this base, they've contacted Satsuma and Choshuu vassals... 532 00:43:05,780 --> 00:43:07,610 ...and together, they've been hatching various plots. 533 00:43:07,820 --> 00:43:11,740 - I am aware of that, too. - Things look to be coming to a head. 534 00:43:11,740 --> 00:43:17,450 - And, if so? - What if... your life were in danger? 535 00:43:17,700 --> 00:43:23,050 - That's totally ludicrous! - But... what if it were so? 536 00:43:23,300 --> 00:43:25,700 - No, it will not happen. - Why not? 537 00:43:25,700 --> 00:43:30,890 - Do you expect me to put it in words? - Tell me. Today, tell me everything. 538 00:43:32,220 --> 00:43:38,050 Our Fourteenth Shogun, lemochi... is how old as of this year? 539 00:43:38,260 --> 00:43:39,930 Fourteen years old. 540 00:43:40,140 --> 00:43:44,370 I am the Lord of Hikone, a Tokugawa-affiliated domain. 541 00:43:44,500 --> 00:43:47,450 I am the Li Family's 15th descendant: "Kamonnokami" Naosuke. 542 00:43:47,620 --> 00:43:50,080 And, to top it off, I'm the Great Elder of the Shogunate. 543 00:43:50,260 --> 00:43:51,890 It is no exaggeration to say... 544 00:43:52,020 --> 00:43:56,730 ...that the Tokugawa government cannot run without me. 545 00:43:57,780 --> 00:44:00,530 So, why would the men of Mito seek my life? 546 00:44:00,700 --> 00:44:02,850 At a time when we're faced with many national dilemmas... 547 00:44:03,020 --> 00:44:05,580 ...the Mito... one of the three Great Houses, wants me dead? 548 00:44:05,740 --> 00:44:08,040 It's ridiculous! 549 00:44:08,220 --> 00:44:10,330 If I were to die now, the Shogunate would crumble into dust! 550 00:44:12,500 --> 00:44:14,650 We are living in unstable times. 551 00:44:14,820 --> 00:44:17,410 Reforming the government by killing me?! 552 00:44:17,540 --> 00:44:20,370 It's nothing but a bad story, fabricated by fools! 553 00:44:20,580 --> 00:44:22,810 Should anybody dare to destroy me... 554 00:44:22,940 --> 00:44:26,330 ...the 300-year old Tokugawa government would fall. 555 00:44:26,460 --> 00:44:28,050 And that would mean... 556 00:44:28,260 --> 00:44:30,770 ...that the age of the samurai would be over! 557 00:44:36,740 --> 00:44:40,090 Concerning Niiro Tsuruchiyo's background... 558 00:44:40,260 --> 00:44:42,560 ...even though his real father's identity is unknown... 559 00:44:42,700 --> 00:44:47,410 ...the fact is, Niiro Soan, a Bishuu clan physician, acted as his father. 560 00:44:48,820 --> 00:44:51,120 So, this Niiro Soan, a physician to the Bishuu... 561 00:44:51,300 --> 00:44:54,090 ...with a fief of 10-koku, and two lackeys, is his adoptive father? 562 00:44:54,660 --> 00:44:59,730 That means... he's considered to be a Bishuu ronin? 563 00:44:59,940 --> 00:45:00,690 Certainly, sir. 564 00:45:00,940 --> 00:45:04,170 Ah, so he must've tried to get a position in Edo somewhere, but failed... 565 00:45:04,340 --> 00:45:06,410 ...so that explains why he's living like an outcast. 566 00:45:06,620 --> 00:45:09,410 Yes. I believe that's a plausible explanation, sir. 567 00:45:12,220 --> 00:45:15,970 Although I did suspect him, I don't think Niiro is the culprit anymore. 568 00:45:18,060 --> 00:45:20,250 - What's the matter?! - Allow me to report to you, sirs... 569 00:45:20,460 --> 00:45:23,290 We've unmasked the betrayers... spies associated with the li! 570 00:45:23,620 --> 00:45:25,530 What?! 571 00:46:39,660 --> 00:46:42,410 What?! It went to the mansion of Matsudaira Sahyonosuke?! 572 00:46:42,580 --> 00:46:45,140 Yes, sir. From the Akasaka Gate, to the right, then... 573 00:46:45,260 --> 00:46:47,370 ...further up Ushinaki Hill via Omote-Denma Village... 574 00:46:47,500 --> 00:46:49,570 ...then, down Yagen Hill... past the Shogunate Sentries' office. 575 00:46:49,740 --> 00:46:50,250 No doubt about it, sir. 576 00:46:50,500 --> 00:46:53,930 Matsudaira Sahyonosuke, the head of Joshu-Yada, has a mansion there. 577 00:46:54,180 --> 00:46:57,170 As it seemed rather peculiar, we investigated further. 578 00:46:57,340 --> 00:47:02,130 The woman in the palanquin was Lady Ochiyo, Matsudaira's concubine. 579 00:47:02,340 --> 00:47:05,730 Why would Matsudaira's concubine visit Kurihara?! 580 00:47:05,900 --> 00:47:08,090 Mitsu, Kurihara's wife, and this Lady Ochiyo happen to be... 581 00:47:08,260 --> 00:47:11,450 ...sisters, blood relatives! 582 00:47:11,580 --> 00:47:15,450 To check, we went to Shiodome, and checked with some shipping agents. 583 00:47:15,620 --> 00:47:18,930 One Kagaya Seibei had two daughters. The older is the Lady Ochiyo... 584 00:47:19,060 --> 00:47:21,520 ...concubine to Matsudaira Sahyonosuke, head of the Yada clan in Joshu. 585 00:47:21,660 --> 00:47:24,850 Her sister is the wife of Kurihara Einosuke, a close aide to Matsudaira! 586 00:47:24,980 --> 00:47:29,250 We have verified all of this, sirs! 587 00:47:29,420 --> 00:47:32,960 Our secrets have spread from Kurihara to Matsudaira Sahyonosuke. 588 00:47:33,100 --> 00:47:36,370 And, from Sahyonosuke to Li the "Kamonnokami?!" 589 00:47:36,540 --> 00:47:39,330 So that's how it is. 590 00:47:42,940 --> 00:47:46,250 Really... one can never tell about some people. 591 00:47:46,500 --> 00:47:49,210 Well, I for one have always believed that... 592 00:47:49,380 --> 00:47:52,090 ...it was rather odd that Kurihara joined us! 593 00:47:52,300 --> 00:47:55,130 So... how shall we deal with this? 594 00:48:29,300 --> 00:48:32,490 Niiro! 595 00:48:32,660 --> 00:48:35,450 Niiro! 596 00:48:41,260 --> 00:48:44,770 - What's up? - What do you mean, "what's up"?! 597 00:48:45,020 --> 00:48:47,970 I heard from Kojima Kaname that you're here all the time... 598 00:48:48,100 --> 00:48:50,210 ...so I became worried. 599 00:48:50,380 --> 00:48:53,410 Come on, Niiro. Let's go home. 600 00:48:53,540 --> 00:48:57,570 Don't worry about the bill... I've taken care of it. 601 00:48:57,780 --> 00:49:01,930 - What did you say?! - I've taken care of it, the whole thing. 602 00:49:02,140 --> 00:49:04,930 It's none of your concern. 603 00:49:07,100 --> 00:49:10,570 Madam Okiku took the money from you, then? 604 00:49:10,780 --> 00:49:13,130 No, I didn't see the Madam. 605 00:49:13,260 --> 00:49:15,640 I was told that she was visiting a lumberyard in Fuyuki Village, in Fukagawa. 606 00:49:15,820 --> 00:49:20,730 This struck me as somewhat strange, but... I paid the head clerk. 607 00:49:20,940 --> 00:49:26,330 Like I told you, you should've minded your own business! 608 00:49:26,460 --> 00:49:29,970 You don't pay the clerk! 609 00:49:30,100 --> 00:49:34,810 But, the fact that she went to the Fukagawa lumberyard is interesting... 610 00:49:34,940 --> 00:49:37,770 ...the fact that Okiku did that... 611 00:49:40,620 --> 00:49:44,050 Now, that makes me laugh! 612 00:49:56,940 --> 00:49:59,650 I am Okiku, the Madam of Sagamiya. 613 00:50:01,820 --> 00:50:05,730 Niiro requested that I send my clerk here... 614 00:50:05,900 --> 00:50:10,690 ...but the matter isn't settled yet, so I've come here in person. 615 00:50:10,860 --> 00:50:13,160 I'm sorry to interrupt your busy schedule. 616 00:50:13,820 --> 00:50:16,380 So, miss, you're the... You're from Sagamiya? 617 00:50:16,820 --> 00:50:19,610 Yes, sir. I am she who is called Madam Okiku. 618 00:50:20,900 --> 00:50:23,250 My goodness... 619 00:50:25,420 --> 00:50:30,490 Really... it's remarkable how there can be look-alikes in this world. 620 00:50:30,660 --> 00:50:32,810 When they say "be as alike as two split melons", they mean this! 621 00:50:33,060 --> 00:50:37,920 - "Two melons?" - No wonder Sir Niiro did what he did... 622 00:50:38,060 --> 00:50:40,210 No wonder... he couldn't have helped himself! 623 00:50:41,260 --> 00:50:44,960 Pardon me, but... what do you mean by that, sir? 624 00:50:46,700 --> 00:50:51,050 When I first met Sir Niiro, he also had... 625 00:50:51,180 --> 00:50:53,850 ...a surprised look on his face, like yours, sir... 626 00:50:54,020 --> 00:50:57,560 ...and wouldn't stop staring at me. 627 00:50:57,740 --> 00:50:59,970 I'm curious as to why... 628 00:51:00,100 --> 00:51:04,810 No... as long as I can collect what he owes, that's all it matters. 629 00:51:06,740 --> 00:51:10,770 But... something about this does bother me. 630 00:51:10,900 --> 00:51:13,730 If you don't mind, sir, please tell me. 631 00:51:20,620 --> 00:51:23,330 I'm sure that there must be a reason not to tell me... 632 00:51:23,420 --> 00:51:26,610 ...but, if I don't ask... then I'll regret it. 633 00:51:26,780 --> 00:51:33,690 No... if I may be blunt... it does feel somewhat ominous. 634 00:51:33,820 --> 00:51:35,850 If I may... 635 00:51:36,020 --> 00:51:38,810 ...if I may so ask, Mr. Kisoya... 636 00:51:41,500 --> 00:51:44,890 Well, sooner or later, I would've had to tell... 637 00:51:45,020 --> 00:51:47,370 ...you, of all people, at least. - Excuse me? 638 00:51:47,580 --> 00:51:51,330 There is too much of a resemblance... too much for mere strangers. 639 00:51:51,500 --> 00:51:54,370 As this may involve you in the future, please allow me to explain. 640 00:51:54,540 --> 00:51:59,480 But, remember... I am telling you this because you seem trustworthy. 641 00:51:59,660 --> 00:52:03,050 Please, never tell anyone. Not even Sir Niiro. 642 00:52:03,220 --> 00:52:04,770 Do you understand? 643 00:52:05,380 --> 00:52:09,490 Yes, sir. I'm not Okiku of Sagamiya for nothing... I know that much. 644 00:52:11,220 --> 00:52:15,730 The blood of a samurai family runs in Sir Niiro's veins. 645 00:52:15,860 --> 00:52:20,880 I cannot reveal their name, but they are of exceptional legacy and status. 646 00:52:21,500 --> 00:52:24,770 - Sir? - But, he is the son of a concubine... 647 00:52:24,980 --> 00:52:32,130 ...or rather, I should say, adolescent mistakes resulted in his birth. 648 00:52:33,540 --> 00:52:38,400 The woman... gave birth to him back in her home town. 649 00:52:38,580 --> 00:52:40,650 There was a reason for that. 650 00:52:40,780 --> 00:52:44,090 It was not possible for the son to be recognised by the father. 651 00:52:44,260 --> 00:52:49,570 It so happens that the woman's father and I were very close friends... 652 00:52:49,740 --> 00:52:52,370 ...so, recognising how sad the situation was... 653 00:52:52,540 --> 00:52:56,930 ...I chose to take young Niiro and his mother with me... 654 00:52:57,060 --> 00:52:58,890 ...and we proceeded to a certain place. 655 00:52:58,980 --> 00:53:02,050 It was the house of a physician, who worked for a major Daimyo. 656 00:53:02,220 --> 00:53:04,570 We went there so that the child could be adopted. 657 00:53:04,700 --> 00:53:07,260 Instead of growing up in a merchant's house like mine, it would be better... 658 00:53:07,380 --> 00:53:12,970 ...for him to be raised in the house of a physician with samurai connections. 659 00:53:13,140 --> 00:53:18,330 That was what we... the child's mother and I... concluded. 660 00:53:19,180 --> 00:53:23,130 But, when young Niiro turned 13, the physician was... 661 00:53:23,260 --> 00:53:25,290 ...transferred to a country fief within his Lord's domain... 662 00:53:25,460 --> 00:53:29,330 ...where, later, he contracted an illness and died. 663 00:53:29,540 --> 00:53:33,530 That happened when Sir Niiro was 22. 664 00:53:33,660 --> 00:53:38,250 However, he had no desire to succeed his physician "father". 665 00:53:38,420 --> 00:53:44,050 Together with his mother, he left for Edo, in search of me. 666 00:53:44,220 --> 00:53:46,290 He said that he had no intention of becoming a physician... 667 00:53:46,420 --> 00:53:50,090 ...but instead wanted to become a samurai of rank. 668 00:53:50,260 --> 00:53:53,250 I myself believe that nothing is impossible, at least in spirit... 669 00:53:53,420 --> 00:53:55,530 ...so, after discussing it with his mother... 670 00:53:55,660 --> 00:53:58,410 ...we let him study at a dojo in Ichigaya Yarai, under... 671 00:53:58,580 --> 00:54:01,850 ...Sir Todo Tatewaki, a master of the Jigen-lchi Style. 672 00:54:02,020 --> 00:54:05,130 As for academics, we sent him to Sir Miura Ansai's seminary... 673 00:54:05,300 --> 00:54:09,080 ...in Yanaka-Oiwakekata Village. 674 00:54:09,260 --> 00:54:11,330 For the next seven years... 675 00:54:11,500 --> 00:54:15,770 ...Sir Niiro was a young man, full of hope... 676 00:54:15,900 --> 00:54:19,090 ...who immersed himself in the worlds of academics and swordsmanship. 677 00:54:19,220 --> 00:54:22,970 His mother and I both looked forward to his success... 678 00:54:23,140 --> 00:54:25,850 ...and bright future, with pride in our hearts. 679 00:54:25,980 --> 00:54:32,080 This anticipation was not at all a dream... It was no fantasy. 680 00:54:32,220 --> 00:54:36,050 I knew that Sir Niiro's real father, an important Shogunate official... 681 00:54:36,220 --> 00:54:41,290 ...also took an interest in his future. 682 00:54:41,420 --> 00:54:44,850 When the time came, when Sir Niiro could live on his own... 683 00:54:45,020 --> 00:54:48,930 ...on the day when he became a respectable, deserving man... 684 00:54:49,100 --> 00:54:54,490 ...we had secretly arranged for a very special event to occur. 685 00:54:54,660 --> 00:54:57,530 But... like they say, "Nothing ever goes as planned." 686 00:54:57,700 --> 00:54:59,490 An unexpected incident took place... 687 00:54:59,620 --> 00:55:03,530 ...one that drastically changed Sir Niiro's life. 688 00:55:04,620 --> 00:55:07,930 It was about a month before he was to receive what he had worked for... 689 00:55:08,100 --> 00:55:13,570 ...a Commendation for Completion of Studies at the Todo Dojo. 690 00:55:13,740 --> 00:55:16,730 In anticipation of this most commemorative event... 691 00:55:16,900 --> 00:55:19,530 ...to pray for his life-long blessing in swordsmanship... 692 00:55:19,660 --> 00:55:23,650 ...we visited Kashima Shrine, in Hitachi, where the Gods of War are sanctified. 693 00:55:23,900 --> 00:55:27,810 On the way back, we enjoyed a boat-ride in Itako. 694 00:55:29,580 --> 00:55:31,570 It's nothing but rice fields, every which way! 695 00:55:31,740 --> 00:55:34,570 "Oh, if only the Irises were in bloom!" Captain, we're bored to death! 696 00:55:34,820 --> 00:55:38,330 Hey! Take us somewhere! Anywhere! 697 00:55:42,860 --> 00:55:46,170 Excuse me, but seeing as we're travelling together, how about pouring me a drink? 698 00:55:46,420 --> 00:55:50,530 Both the lady and I are a bit seasick, not feeling all that well. 699 00:55:50,660 --> 00:55:53,490 I am sorry but we cannot serve you. 700 00:56:01,380 --> 00:56:05,450 It must be fate that has brought us together. Pour me a drink. 701 00:56:05,660 --> 00:56:08,650 It wouldn't be all that enjoyable if an old woman like me were to serve you. 702 00:56:08,820 --> 00:56:13,530 I believe that it's best if you drink such valuable sake amongst yourselves. 703 00:56:17,140 --> 00:56:20,890 You're too soft, fellow. Let me handle this! 704 00:56:24,460 --> 00:56:26,730 C'mon, just one drink! Pour me some! 705 00:56:27,220 --> 00:56:28,810 As I just told you... 706 00:56:29,140 --> 00:56:34,490 I'm not asking you, old Mushroom! I'm asking this wench, over here! 707 00:56:34,660 --> 00:56:38,250 Don't be so conceited! I ask you, just a drink! 708 00:56:39,900 --> 00:56:42,460 How dare you! Shit! 709 00:56:43,060 --> 00:56:46,730 - Sir! Y... You're being unreasonable! - Shut up! 710 00:56:49,220 --> 00:56:51,170 You young punk! 711 00:56:51,340 --> 00:56:53,690 Kill him! 712 00:56:57,620 --> 00:57:00,410 You bastard! 713 00:57:04,460 --> 00:57:07,250 Come back here! 714 00:57:09,740 --> 00:57:11,330 Just who was the lady that you speak of? 715 00:57:11,540 --> 00:57:13,840 She was of the House of Takatsukasa in Kyoto... 716 00:57:14,020 --> 00:57:18,610 ...the daughter of Sir Ichijo Narihisa, the 3rd-ranking General. 717 00:57:18,860 --> 00:57:20,650 Such an important person! 718 00:57:20,860 --> 00:57:26,490 On top of that, this "princess" was named "Kiku-hime". 719 00:57:27,340 --> 00:57:30,930 Oh, my... Even our names are the same! 720 00:57:32,540 --> 00:57:35,490 Indeed... Strange things can happen in this world. 721 00:57:35,980 --> 00:57:38,490 So... what happened after that? 722 00:57:41,740 --> 00:57:46,930 You may fool others... but you cannot deceive the eyes of this samurai! 723 00:57:47,100 --> 00:57:52,330 Who do you wait for... at Kanda Myojin Shrine, after the day's lessons?! 724 00:57:55,060 --> 00:57:58,930 You are still in training... yet you're lusting after women! 725 00:57:59,100 --> 00:58:01,090 How dare you let your mind stray from the sword?! 726 00:58:01,260 --> 00:58:03,890 Further carelessness won't be tolerated! 727 00:58:04,140 --> 00:58:07,810 Kiku-hime was to wed the eldest son of Miyamori Betto... 728 00:58:07,940 --> 00:58:11,720 ...a distinguished Shinto priest known throughout the Kanto region. 729 00:58:11,900 --> 00:58:16,730 As Sir Kii's auxiliary mansion was in Edo, near the Akasaka Gates... 730 00:58:16,900 --> 00:58:22,810 ...she often traveled there with her father, Sir Narihisa, all the way from Kyoto. 731 00:58:22,940 --> 00:58:26,130 Kiku-hime would leave the Kii Mansion just about every day... 732 00:58:26,260 --> 00:58:33,050 ...to visit Matsunaga Wafu's residence, to study Nagauta singing. 733 00:58:33,300 --> 00:58:36,970 For a lady of a famous family, she's rather spirited. 734 00:58:37,100 --> 00:58:40,880 Instead of requesting that the instructor visit her, she'd travel so she could... 735 00:58:41,060 --> 00:58:42,730 ...take lessons in the company of regular girls. 736 00:58:43,340 --> 00:58:47,090 It seems that you're visiting the Kanda Myojin Shrine all the time, Miss Ichijo. 737 00:58:47,300 --> 00:58:52,370 - Offering special prayers, perhaps? - No... I don't believe in gods or buddhas. 738 00:58:52,620 --> 00:58:54,770 Then, perhaps you're meeting someone special there? 739 00:58:54,940 --> 00:58:57,690 Yes... Someone special is waiting for me. 740 00:58:57,820 --> 00:59:00,650 If you'll excuse me... 741 00:59:00,980 --> 00:59:04,730 The relationship between the two grew stronger every day... 742 00:59:04,860 --> 00:59:08,450 ...but there was no way that such a thing could last for long. 743 00:59:08,620 --> 00:59:11,210 Soon, Sir Ichijo Narihisa came up with ways to... 744 00:59:11,380 --> 00:59:17,050 ...prevent Kiku-hime from leaving the Kii Mansion even for a minute. 745 00:59:17,180 --> 00:59:20,850 Then... nobody knows how Kiku-hime managed to do it... 746 00:59:21,020 --> 00:59:24,690 ...she somehow eluded her guards... and escaped from the mansion! 747 00:59:25,060 --> 00:59:27,010 What? 748 00:59:28,180 --> 00:59:30,170 You've run away, just to be here?! 749 00:59:30,660 --> 00:59:35,210 Yes... my father wishes me to marry... against my will. 750 00:59:35,340 --> 00:59:38,770 I had to be here, even if I had to run away! 751 00:59:38,900 --> 00:59:40,690 I care not for status! 752 00:59:42,660 --> 00:59:47,050 I thought that, if this is what Kiku-hime really wants, then... 753 00:59:47,220 --> 00:59:52,010 ...l'd offer to talk to Sir Ichijo, in hopes that the matter might be resolved... 754 00:59:52,180 --> 00:59:54,450 ...by offering him a solution to his problem. 755 00:59:54,580 --> 00:59:56,410 Why force apart two people in love? 756 00:59:56,540 --> 01:00:00,370 What if it causes them to plan to elope? 757 01:00:00,540 --> 01:00:03,410 Who knows what kind of nightmare it could become? 758 01:00:04,820 --> 01:00:08,770 So I imposed upon a merchant who frequented the Kii Mansion... 759 01:00:08,860 --> 01:00:11,090 ...and after much discussion... 760 01:00:11,220 --> 01:00:14,250 ...we were able to arrange a meeting with Sir Ichijo Narihisa... 761 01:00:14,420 --> 01:00:16,610 ...who was staying in the West Quarters of the Mansion. 762 01:00:17,900 --> 01:00:20,970 Kisoya... haven't you ever heard... 763 01:00:21,140 --> 01:00:24,050 ...people say that "lanterns and bells can never go together?" 764 01:00:24,300 --> 01:00:26,210 But, Sir Ichijo... 765 01:00:26,420 --> 01:00:28,650 Listen to me, Kisoya. 766 01:00:28,820 --> 01:00:33,570 The owner of this mansion, Sir Kii Yorihisa... 767 01:00:33,740 --> 01:00:37,850 ...happens to be the 3rd-ranking Provincial General. 768 01:00:37,980 --> 01:00:44,970 But, 3rd-ranking means... that they're at the same level as my House. 769 01:00:45,140 --> 01:00:47,330 That means, Kisoya... 770 01:00:47,460 --> 01:00:51,370 ...that unless he's the noble son of a Daimyo or something... 771 01:00:51,500 --> 01:00:56,210 ...discussing his marriage to a princess is just absurd, isn't it? 772 01:00:56,460 --> 01:00:58,890 "Unless he's the noble son of a Daimyo or something...?" 773 01:00:59,220 --> 01:01:01,600 - That's right. - T... The truth is that... 774 01:01:03,660 --> 01:01:06,970 What is it? 775 01:01:07,180 --> 01:01:09,330 No... It's nothing. 776 01:01:13,780 --> 01:01:17,210 "Unless he's the noble son of a Daimyo or something..." 777 01:01:17,420 --> 01:01:22,770 Considering the situation, I considered revealing Tsuruchiyo's lineage... 778 01:01:22,940 --> 01:01:25,500 ...but I just couldn't, not without asking you. 779 01:01:27,580 --> 01:01:30,890 Of course not. 780 01:01:31,060 --> 01:01:33,130 Even if marriage negotiations were entered into... 781 01:01:33,300 --> 01:01:37,850 ...who knows what problems of social standing might arise? 782 01:01:37,980 --> 01:01:40,690 Besides, until he becomes a worthy warrior... 783 01:01:40,860 --> 01:01:46,370 ...until he's mastered swordmanship, and we can be proud of him... 784 01:01:46,500 --> 01:01:48,770 ...until then, the truth must not be revealed. 785 01:01:48,940 --> 01:01:51,650 That was the promise we and His Highness made to each other. 786 01:01:51,820 --> 01:01:53,410 We're nowhere near that time! 787 01:01:53,660 --> 01:01:55,490 In the meantime... 788 01:01:55,620 --> 01:01:59,490 ...the marriage negotiations concerning Kiku-hime and Miyamori Betto's... 789 01:01:59,620 --> 01:02:02,130 ...eldest son continued to progress. 790 01:02:02,300 --> 01:02:07,930 But, Tsuruchiyo could not wrest Kiku-hime from his heart. 791 01:02:08,100 --> 01:02:12,770 Eventually, he marched straight into Sir Kii's mansion. 792 01:02:13,340 --> 01:02:14,100 What?! 793 01:02:14,100 --> 01:02:16,560 What you've just told me, and the manner in which you said it... 794 01:02:16,740 --> 01:02:20,520 ...I for one believe it's a bit impudent. 795 01:02:21,620 --> 01:02:25,240 But, sir, Kiku-hime clearly objects to marrying the son of Sir Miyamori. 796 01:02:25,500 --> 01:02:29,040 Whom my daughter will marry... is none of your concern. 797 01:02:29,180 --> 01:02:32,690 Of course, it is my daughter's life we're talking about... 798 01:02:32,820 --> 01:02:35,810 ...so I cannot say that I have not considered you. 799 01:02:35,940 --> 01:02:42,040 But, having done so, I have concerns, and so I simply cannot consent to it. 800 01:02:43,500 --> 01:02:49,680 Niiro Soan, the Bishuu clan physician, was merely a father figure to you. 801 01:02:49,860 --> 01:02:52,770 Actually, he's not your real father. 802 01:02:56,500 --> 01:03:00,120 That means you're but the son of some concubine... 803 01:03:00,220 --> 01:03:03,610 ...a man who doesn't know who his father is. 804 01:03:06,780 --> 01:03:12,880 How can I possibly give my precious daughter to someone so lowly? 805 01:03:14,540 --> 01:03:18,290 But, what if I return with my parents? What then?! 806 01:03:25,300 --> 01:03:31,450 That depends on what happens... when your parents and I talk. 807 01:03:32,940 --> 01:03:37,650 Kisoya... why won't you tell me the name of my father?! 808 01:03:39,060 --> 01:03:41,360 Hey! Why won't you tell me who my father is?! 809 01:03:47,900 --> 01:03:49,370 Why won't you tell me?! 810 01:03:49,540 --> 01:03:51,370 Why do you say that keeping it a secret is for own my good?! 811 01:03:51,540 --> 01:03:57,250 If you're doing it for my sake, then tell me! Tell me who my father is! 812 01:03:57,380 --> 01:04:01,160 Tell me! Mother! Tell me! 813 01:04:10,700 --> 01:04:14,480 Next! Who's next?! 814 01:04:43,220 --> 01:04:46,010 You friggin' brat! Brat! Twerp! 815 01:04:49,780 --> 01:04:52,450 You womanising, drunken crazy bastard! 816 01:04:52,620 --> 01:04:55,490 Forget about your Certificate! 817 01:04:55,620 --> 01:04:59,010 As of today, we're no longer teacher and student... you're expelled! 818 01:04:59,180 --> 01:05:01,560 You are to never step into this dojo ever again! 819 01:05:08,900 --> 01:05:13,780 "To become a samurai is to master the sword?!" To hell with it! 820 01:05:13,980 --> 01:05:16,690 "As of today, we're no longer teacher and student?!" That's for me to say! 821 01:05:22,020 --> 01:05:24,530 This world never works the way you want it to anyway! 822 01:05:24,700 --> 01:05:28,930 I, Niiro Tsuruchiyo, will live my life my own way! 823 01:05:40,140 --> 01:05:45,050 As of that day, Sir Tsuruchiyo... left this house as well. 824 01:05:49,740 --> 01:05:51,650 Oh, my... from that day on, he became... 825 01:05:51,820 --> 01:05:54,850 ...like a rolling stone, tumbling down a steep hill. 826 01:05:57,780 --> 01:06:00,930 Does that mean, Sir Tsuruchiyo is... 827 01:06:01,140 --> 01:06:06,850 ...dead, as far as we're concerned? 828 01:06:07,060 --> 01:06:08,890 That's correct, sir. 829 01:06:09,020 --> 01:06:11,810 He's no longer living in this world. 830 01:06:14,420 --> 01:06:18,530 Sir Nozaka... 831 01:06:18,700 --> 01:06:23,250 ...even if you should meet someone that resembles Tsuruchiyo in every way... 832 01:06:23,420 --> 01:06:29,050 ...he's no longer... Niiro Tsuruchiyo. 833 01:07:04,620 --> 01:07:07,490 What happened to Sir Tsuruchiyo over the next five years...? 834 01:07:07,660 --> 01:07:10,930 Well, you know very well just what happened... 835 01:07:12,220 --> 01:07:15,050 I understand now. 836 01:07:15,180 --> 01:07:17,740 Actually, I understand very well now. 837 01:07:17,820 --> 01:07:21,570 But, I'm not the Princess Kiku that you speak of. 838 01:07:23,580 --> 01:07:26,850 I cannot possibly do anything for Sir Niiro. 839 01:07:27,460 --> 01:07:31,050 No, you should not be so concerned. 840 01:07:31,180 --> 01:07:33,690 Still, no matter what foolish deeds he's done... 841 01:07:33,820 --> 01:07:37,170 ...if it can be repaid with money, then I, Kisoya, will... 842 01:07:37,340 --> 01:07:41,530 And, then... well, Okiku... 843 01:07:41,700 --> 01:07:44,160 If you ever get a chance to... 844 01:07:44,340 --> 01:07:46,690 ...I know he can be like a wolf sometimes, but... 845 01:07:46,820 --> 01:07:48,890 ...please say something kind once in a while, a "hello" would do. 846 01:07:49,340 --> 01:07:51,610 Yes, of course. 847 01:07:51,900 --> 01:07:55,130 One, two... 848 01:07:57,580 --> 01:08:00,370 Thank you for your patience! 849 01:08:03,300 --> 01:08:05,300 - Here you go, ma'am! - Welcome back, ma'am! 850 01:08:05,300 --> 01:08:08,650 - Is Sir Niiro in the "Paulownia Room?" - Oh! He's gone home, ma'am! 851 01:08:08,860 --> 01:08:11,650 "Gone home?" 852 01:08:17,740 --> 01:08:20,490 Madame, no more. No more, I'm fine. 853 01:08:20,660 --> 01:08:22,930 It's just ordinary home cooking, but did you like it? 854 01:08:23,140 --> 01:08:25,930 Very good! Very good indeed! 855 01:08:31,500 --> 01:08:36,440 Somehow... I feel at ease only when I'm at your place. 856 01:08:36,620 --> 01:08:37,840 It's intriguing. 857 01:08:38,100 --> 01:08:40,450 Well, how could someone like you be so out of control at Sagamiya? 858 01:08:40,780 --> 01:08:44,300 - Well, don't worry about that. - Sir Niiro, would you like more sake? 859 01:08:44,300 --> 01:08:46,250 No, I've had plenty already. 860 01:08:54,860 --> 01:08:58,130 But, you know... Wait... 861 01:08:58,220 --> 01:09:00,970 Well... I just can't understand something. 862 01:09:01,140 --> 01:09:04,760 - What is it? - Something about you. 863 01:09:04,980 --> 01:09:07,090 What don't you understand about me? 864 01:09:07,300 --> 01:09:11,170 Your life... It seems to me to be peacefulness itself. 865 01:09:11,300 --> 01:09:14,570 Why then... have you joined the cause? 866 01:09:14,860 --> 01:09:19,610 It should be obvious to you. My reason is the same as yours. 867 01:09:19,860 --> 01:09:22,370 No. You shouldn't joke about it. 868 01:09:22,500 --> 01:09:25,060 I'm different from you. 869 01:09:25,180 --> 01:09:28,290 If I don't do something, I'll either starve like a stray dog... 870 01:09:28,460 --> 01:09:31,450 ...or have to live like a bandit. 871 01:09:31,620 --> 01:09:36,770 "In order to stay dry, you've got to cross bridges, no matter how dangerous." 872 01:09:36,940 --> 01:09:40,450 On the other hand... your situation is completely different. 873 01:09:40,620 --> 01:09:44,090 You resigned from a comfortable 300-koku post as a Shogunate aide! 874 01:09:44,340 --> 01:09:48,850 My principles, you see... are contained in the books you see there. 875 01:09:53,300 --> 01:09:57,130 The world is fast changing around us. 876 01:09:57,260 --> 01:10:00,130 The 300-year old feudal government of the Shogunate... 877 01:10:00,300 --> 01:10:04,930 ...is doomed, thanks to the arrival of the American Black Ships at Shimoda. 878 01:10:05,100 --> 01:10:08,370 The world is moving in a new direction... 879 01:10:08,540 --> 01:10:11,810 ...and I want to help push it forward with all my might. 880 01:10:11,940 --> 01:10:15,580 - My feelings are the same as yours. - No, it's different. I... 881 01:10:15,580 --> 01:10:16,560 Well, listen! 882 01:10:16,780 --> 01:10:18,690 You're deliberately blinding yourself to what's really essential... 883 01:10:18,820 --> 01:10:21,610 ...and putting the blame on something else. 884 01:10:21,780 --> 01:10:28,040 We are both at the center of a vortex of revolutionary change. 885 01:10:28,180 --> 01:10:33,010 We're trapped in an unstoppable, enormous whirlpool... 886 01:10:33,140 --> 01:10:39,290 And, everyone is thinking... "I've got to do something." 887 01:10:39,620 --> 01:10:42,410 No, I'm not like that. 888 01:10:42,540 --> 01:10:46,770 For me, this is the surest, quickest way of becoming a noble samurai. 889 01:10:46,940 --> 01:10:51,850 In other words... I want to live more like a human being... And that's all. 890 01:10:54,740 --> 01:10:58,060 - What's the matter? - "Like a human being", you said? 891 01:10:58,060 --> 01:11:00,410 - Why, is that crazy? - No, it's not crazy. 892 01:11:00,620 --> 01:11:03,850 In essence, I feel the same way you do. 893 01:11:03,980 --> 01:11:08,530 However, what I am doing... I'm not doing just for myself... 894 01:11:08,700 --> 01:11:10,210 ...but, for the whole human race... 895 01:11:10,340 --> 01:11:15,090 ...so that everyone can live like human beings. That's all that I wish for. 896 01:11:16,060 --> 01:11:17,450 I don't understand... 897 01:11:17,580 --> 01:11:20,290 I don't understand it at all. 898 01:11:20,420 --> 01:11:23,090 There's only one thing that I understand... 899 01:11:23,980 --> 01:11:25,610 Huh? 900 01:11:25,820 --> 01:11:29,250 ...that you, Kurihara Einosuke, are a good man. That's all. 901 01:11:41,420 --> 01:11:45,730 Oh, Ma'am, please don't mind me. 902 01:11:45,860 --> 01:11:49,210 - By the way, where's young Eiichiro? - Oh, he's sound asleep. 903 01:11:49,420 --> 01:11:53,040 Ah, "Strong becomes a child that sleeps often", like they say, eh? 904 01:11:53,220 --> 01:11:55,210 Well, I'd better get going myself. 905 01:11:55,500 --> 01:12:00,090 Give yourself a break, Sir Niiro. Why don't you stay here tonight? 906 01:12:00,460 --> 01:12:03,170 No, I cannot do that. 907 01:12:03,340 --> 01:12:07,290 It might be a dishevelled hut, but for me, it's my one and only castle. 908 01:12:07,420 --> 01:12:09,880 By going home to my castle, I can sleep the way I want to... 909 01:12:10,020 --> 01:12:12,970 ...with my knees in my arms! 910 01:12:42,580 --> 01:12:45,370 Please excuse us for coming in while you were away. 911 01:12:53,660 --> 01:12:56,570 We would like to make a formal request of you, Niiro. 912 01:12:56,820 --> 01:12:59,530 - A request? - Correct. 913 01:12:59,700 --> 01:13:02,260 We'd like you to assassinate the traitor in our midst. 914 01:13:03,580 --> 01:13:07,280 A traitor?! Who is it? 915 01:13:07,580 --> 01:13:10,810 A former Yada clansman from Joshu, Kurihara Einosuke. 916 01:13:11,020 --> 01:13:13,810 What?! 917 01:13:15,180 --> 01:13:17,810 It can't be true! 918 01:13:17,980 --> 01:13:20,410 Besides, what evidence do you have?! 919 01:13:20,580 --> 01:13:25,370 As they say, "Before accusing, question seven times!" 920 01:13:26,020 --> 01:13:30,370 Actually, Niiro... to be honest, we suspected you too at first. 921 01:13:30,540 --> 01:13:33,170 But, we found that there were no grounds to suspect you... 922 01:13:33,340 --> 01:13:36,330 ...and that Kurihara Einosuke is the traitor. We apologise for this. 923 01:13:36,540 --> 01:13:39,810 Why do you say that Kurihara Einosuke is the traitor?! Explain! 924 01:13:40,020 --> 01:13:42,130 Are you familiar with his wife? 925 01:13:42,340 --> 01:13:44,930 Yes, I am. She is an admirable, wonderful wife. 926 01:13:45,140 --> 01:13:48,920 - What about her older sister? - Her sister? No, I don't know her. 927 01:13:49,180 --> 01:13:53,090 The sister of Kurihara's wife is named Chiyo... She is the Lady Ochiyo... 928 01:13:53,220 --> 01:13:55,810 ...a concubine of Matsudaira Sahyonosuke, Lord of the Yada clan in Joshu! 929 01:13:56,020 --> 01:13:58,730 - What?! - Upon learning this, we too were stunned. 930 01:13:58,900 --> 01:14:00,930 No... We were being too trusting. 931 01:14:01,100 --> 01:14:03,890 Niiro... Matsudaira Sahyonosuke and Kurihara could be... 932 01:14:04,060 --> 01:14:06,010 ...considered to be brothers-in-law. 933 01:14:06,140 --> 01:14:11,370 Lady Ochiyo has often visited Kurihara's mansion in Honjo-Koume. 934 01:14:11,540 --> 01:14:14,610 Thus, anything could... No... everything will, via Sahyonosuke... 935 01:14:14,740 --> 01:14:17,300 ...be relayed to Li Naosuke, the devil himself! 936 01:14:17,540 --> 01:14:18,970 But... 937 01:14:19,100 --> 01:14:22,530 ...that alone does not prove that Kurihara acted on Li's behalf! 938 01:14:22,740 --> 01:14:24,530 Niiro... 939 01:14:24,660 --> 01:14:31,330 ...are you saying, then, that you've never suspected Kurihara of anything, ever? 940 01:14:33,740 --> 01:14:36,650 He's not of Mito, Satsuma or Choshuu provinces. 941 01:14:36,820 --> 01:14:40,520 And... I don't mean to insult you... he's not an opportunist like you either. 942 01:14:40,700 --> 01:14:43,530 Matsudaira's close affiliation with the Shogun means they're close to li, too. 943 01:14:43,700 --> 01:14:46,530 Besides, Kurihara was a trusted aide of Matsudaira, the head of the Yada clan. 944 01:14:46,700 --> 01:14:50,290 - So why did he join us? - Well, that's because... It's because... 945 01:14:50,500 --> 01:14:54,490 Niiro... our decisive moment is just over the horizon. 946 01:14:54,620 --> 01:14:58,400 When we decide on the date, and carry out our mission... 947 01:14:58,580 --> 01:15:01,010 ...what will happen to us if li's men are forewarned? 948 01:15:01,140 --> 01:15:03,370 We'll be arrested for sure! 949 01:15:03,460 --> 01:15:06,290 And then we'll all be hung from the tops of trees! 950 01:15:08,460 --> 01:15:12,490 Anyone suspicious must be eliminated as fast as possible, no matter what. 951 01:15:13,660 --> 01:15:16,490 I refuse to do it... I cannot do it! 952 01:15:16,660 --> 01:15:18,210 Then, who will? 953 01:15:18,340 --> 01:15:20,900 Kurihara has mastered the secrets of the Nen Style... 954 01:15:21,020 --> 01:15:23,580 Even two or three of our comrades wouldn't stand a chance. 955 01:15:23,700 --> 01:15:25,410 Indeed, he'd cut them all down in an instant. 956 01:15:25,580 --> 01:15:30,370 And, if we send many men, it'll stir up a lot of trouble and attention. 957 01:15:30,540 --> 01:15:34,320 You, Niiro... You're the only one who can destroy Kurihara! 958 01:15:35,660 --> 01:15:39,410 Here's the plan. Kojima will tell him that, even though it's late... 959 01:15:39,580 --> 01:15:43,690 ...an emergency meeting will be held at Yamazakiya, by the Nihonbashi Bridge. 960 01:15:43,780 --> 01:15:47,970 You'll be waiting for Kurihara by the riverside, where people won't be around. 961 01:15:48,100 --> 01:15:51,250 There, you will slay him in one stroke. 962 01:15:51,500 --> 01:15:55,570 - But... - Fine. Well, that's too bad. 963 01:15:55,780 --> 01:15:59,530 There's not much more we can do to try and convince you. 964 01:15:59,660 --> 01:16:05,840 Niiro... effective immediately, you are to... 965 01:16:05,980 --> 01:16:08,540 ...leave our Elder Assassination Group! 966 01:16:09,500 --> 01:16:10,090 What did you say?! 967 01:16:10,300 --> 01:16:15,010 We were hoping that you were with us, and that we could count on you. 968 01:16:15,180 --> 01:16:18,930 But, if you can't be convinced, then... there's nothing to be done. Farewell. 969 01:16:20,260 --> 01:16:21,690 Wait! 970 01:16:21,860 --> 01:16:27,690 I pledge that... I'll serve you, and that I will destroy Li Naosuke! 971 01:16:28,380 --> 01:16:32,330 But, Kurihara Einosuke must be destroyed first. 972 01:16:32,420 --> 01:16:35,410 We can't possibly proceed with our plans, if... 973 01:16:35,580 --> 01:16:39,330 ...we have a viper at our breast! Farewell! 974 01:16:39,940 --> 01:16:42,690 Wait! 975 01:16:49,980 --> 01:16:54,090 Niiro... Then, will you... take care of Kurihara? 976 01:16:57,620 --> 01:16:59,920 Well, you'd prefer not to act alone, I'm sure. 977 01:17:00,100 --> 01:17:04,170 Don't worry. You'll have some help. Three good swordsmen, in fact. 978 01:17:04,380 --> 01:17:07,570 No, they'd only be a hindrance! I will kill him by myself! 979 01:17:16,180 --> 01:17:18,970 Who's there?! 980 01:17:22,300 --> 01:17:24,860 Why... it's you, Niiro! 981 01:17:29,140 --> 01:17:31,370 You heard about the meeting at Yamazakiya, right? 982 01:17:31,460 --> 01:17:32,890 Don't give me the wrong idea... 983 01:17:33,020 --> 01:17:36,640 Standing there like that, one might think you want to test your sword on flesh. 984 01:17:36,820 --> 01:17:39,610 Come on. Let's get going. 985 01:17:42,020 --> 01:17:44,250 But... how did you know that I was coming this way? 986 01:17:55,940 --> 01:17:59,770 Niiro... what's wrong? You don't seem like your usual self tonight... 987 01:18:05,860 --> 01:18:08,690 Niiro! Why?! 988 01:18:13,820 --> 01:18:15,890 Why?! 989 01:18:16,020 --> 01:18:18,850 Why?! Tell me why! 990 01:18:22,020 --> 01:18:24,650 Why! Why?! 991 01:18:24,820 --> 01:18:27,570 Why?! 992 01:18:30,940 --> 01:18:32,770 Niiro... 993 01:18:35,580 --> 01:18:37,650 Why me...? 994 01:18:38,820 --> 01:18:42,410 Why...?! 995 01:18:49,300 --> 01:19:13,050 "It's worthless to leave behind valuable things. 996 01:19:13,220 --> 01:19:26,930 "What's worth leaving behind is what's not valuable... Mother's... 997 01:19:28,300 --> 01:19:51,410 "...memories, imperceptible, intangible... 998 01:19:51,540 --> 01:20:05,480 "That is the reality of this ever-changing world." 999 01:20:32,580 --> 01:20:36,330 Oh? You're not having any? 1000 01:20:37,820 --> 01:20:41,570 Sir Niiro, how about a drink of hot sake? 1001 01:21:10,780 --> 01:21:12,820 Sir Niiro? 1002 01:21:12,820 --> 01:21:14,180 Quiet... 1003 01:21:14,180 --> 01:21:16,050 But, you shouldn't drink so much. 1004 01:21:16,540 --> 01:21:18,370 Be quiet! 1005 01:21:20,100 --> 01:21:24,370 Then, perhaps you should make that your last. 1006 01:21:24,540 --> 01:21:28,010 "The stomach is a part of the body also", as they say... You should be careful. 1007 01:21:36,220 --> 01:21:39,010 This is crazy! You shouldn't... 1008 01:21:40,780 --> 01:21:44,530 Ma'am, step outside! Excuse us. Please excuse us for a moment! 1009 01:21:49,060 --> 01:21:53,170 Niiro, something's come up! Something horribly unexpected! 1010 01:21:53,380 --> 01:21:55,840 What is it? Is our mission starting? 1011 01:21:56,060 --> 01:22:00,770 No, that's not it! Well, Niiro... we've found out who the real traitor was! 1012 01:22:00,900 --> 01:22:04,340 - K... Kurihara Einosuke was innocent! - What?! 1013 01:22:04,340 --> 01:22:05,480 It was all an awful mistake! 1014 01:22:05,660 --> 01:22:07,770 Kurihara didn't betray us. 1015 01:22:07,940 --> 01:22:09,250 The conspirator who spied for Li was... 1016 01:22:09,380 --> 01:22:11,410 ...without a doubt, Masui Sobei, the Staff Officer. 1017 01:22:11,580 --> 01:22:14,370 Sir Kenmotsu is conducting an inquiry back at the mansion! 1018 01:23:07,900 --> 01:23:10,690 Explain it! Explain! 1019 01:23:18,060 --> 01:23:20,650 Masui Sobei, a former Mito clansman... 1020 01:23:20,820 --> 01:23:23,890 ...who had been a warehouse clerk, of 80-koku income. 35 years old. 1021 01:23:24,020 --> 01:23:26,530 In early February, this year, the said individual... 1022 01:23:26,700 --> 01:23:29,490 ...covertly maintained a second residence in the hills of Kaminegishi... 1023 01:23:29,580 --> 01:23:31,290 ...into which, he installed a mistress. 1024 01:23:31,420 --> 01:23:33,720 The source of his funds came under suspicion. 1025 01:23:33,980 --> 01:23:39,170 Sir Kenmotsu ordered Seki Tetsunosuke to conduct an investigation... 1026 01:23:39,340 --> 01:23:43,120 ...and Masui was observed meeting with a samurai near the Nihonbashi Bridge... 1027 01:23:43,300 --> 01:23:45,370 ...at the tea parlour "Hatsune" in Yanagi Village. 1028 01:23:45,500 --> 01:23:48,450 When Seki Tetsunosuke followed them... 1029 01:23:48,620 --> 01:23:51,850 ...he saw them enter a warehouse owned by Li Naosuke... 1030 01:23:52,020 --> 01:23:55,210 ...near Nihonbashi's southern, eighth district. 1031 01:23:55,340 --> 01:23:57,970 After obtaining the samurai's name from the gate guard... 1032 01:23:58,140 --> 01:24:00,890 ...it was revealed that he was Takigawa Genba, an assistant to a Jr. Elder. 1033 01:24:01,060 --> 01:24:05,970 After interrogating Masui about his connection to Takigawa Genba... 1034 01:24:06,100 --> 01:24:09,530 ...it was found that Genba worked for Li's vassal, Nagano Shuzen... 1035 01:24:09,700 --> 01:24:12,210 ...and he has been secretly talking to Masui for a long time. 1036 01:24:12,380 --> 01:24:17,400 On January 31st, he received 20-ryo, and a further 30 on February 21st... 1037 01:24:17,580 --> 01:24:21,770 ...totalling 50-ryo. Masui Sobei received these funds from Takigawa Genba. 1038 01:24:21,940 --> 01:24:25,130 He confessed to conspiring against us. 1039 01:24:25,260 --> 01:24:28,410 Thus, he is hereby sentenced to death. 1040 01:24:28,580 --> 01:24:32,120 Then... Kurihara Einosuke had... nothing to do with it?! 1041 01:24:32,300 --> 01:24:35,690 Niiro... You're such a simple-minded fellow. 1042 01:24:35,940 --> 01:24:36,690 What?! 1043 01:24:36,900 --> 01:24:40,850 You take things too seriously. You're too frank. 1044 01:24:41,020 --> 01:24:43,770 If you don't become a little more dispassionate... 1045 01:24:43,900 --> 01:24:46,280 ...you can't possibly destroy Elder li! 1046 01:24:46,500 --> 01:24:48,650 That has nothing to do with this! 1047 01:24:48,820 --> 01:24:50,850 Kurihara Einosuke was one of our comrades! 1048 01:24:51,020 --> 01:24:54,210 Also... he had a wife, and even an innocent child. 1049 01:25:00,140 --> 01:25:02,170 The blood of Elder Li... 1050 01:25:02,260 --> 01:25:05,490 ...and the blood of Kurihara Einosuke... what's the difference? 1051 01:25:05,660 --> 01:25:08,570 Sympathy has no place here! 1052 01:25:08,740 --> 01:25:10,690 From the start, this has been the nature of our mission. 1053 01:25:10,860 --> 01:25:15,170 We can't allow our enemies to wound us without reprisal. 1054 01:25:15,340 --> 01:25:18,250 Our hands must get dirty with blood, too. 1055 01:25:18,420 --> 01:25:20,650 Listen to me, Niiro! 1056 01:25:20,780 --> 01:25:24,480 You must become a little more cold-blooded. 1057 01:25:24,620 --> 01:25:28,730 - By the 3rd of March, for certain! - What?! 1058 01:25:28,940 --> 01:25:32,770 On March 3rd, in the center atrium of Edo Castle... 1059 01:25:32,940 --> 01:25:35,770 ...a Joumi Day Celebration, important to the Shogun's family, will take place. 1060 01:25:35,940 --> 01:25:39,370 In other words, the so-called "Peach Observance." 1061 01:25:39,500 --> 01:25:42,330 Without a doubt, Elder Li Naosuke will attend. 1062 01:25:44,900 --> 01:25:49,250 One traitor... and one suspected of being a traitor... 1063 01:25:49,420 --> 01:25:51,410 ...a total of two comrades have been eliminated. 1064 01:25:51,580 --> 01:25:53,370 Finally, our mission can commence! 1065 01:25:56,620 --> 01:26:00,290 - Get rid of him. - Yes, sir! 1066 01:26:02,060 --> 01:26:04,250 - Ichigoro... - Yes, sir. 1067 01:26:04,460 --> 01:26:09,170 Erase every single record concerning Kurihara Einosuke and Masui Sobei. 1068 01:26:09,340 --> 01:26:14,050 We must go down in history as devout men of principle. 1069 01:26:14,220 --> 01:26:17,010 There's absolutely no need to record anything about traitors. 1070 01:26:40,660 --> 01:26:45,290 The mission... was set for March 3rd. 1071 01:26:45,460 --> 01:26:50,970 March 3rd of the First Year of Man'en (1860). The "Peach Observance." 1072 01:27:02,820 --> 01:27:06,330 Tomorrow is the "Peach Observance." 1073 01:27:06,500 --> 01:27:09,810 Since I've come to Yokoyama Village, I thought I'd buy these while I'm here... 1074 01:27:20,060 --> 01:27:22,490 An Emperor Doll and an Empress Doll... 1075 01:27:22,780 --> 01:27:27,370 ...they look so peaceful together. 1076 01:27:27,500 --> 01:27:30,290 They're timelessly splendid whenever you look at them. 1077 01:27:32,060 --> 01:27:33,730 Ma'am... 1078 01:27:33,900 --> 01:27:38,610 ...many things happen along the road of life, don't they? 1079 01:27:40,060 --> 01:27:42,360 They certainly do. 1080 01:27:43,260 --> 01:27:49,330 How 'bout it... If I become a noble samurai with 2- or 300-koku in income... 1081 01:27:49,500 --> 01:27:52,730 ...why don't you become my wife? 1082 01:27:52,980 --> 01:27:57,370 But, I cannot possibly be apart from Sagamiya. 1083 01:27:59,020 --> 01:28:00,930 Even better, Sir Niiro... 1084 01:28:01,100 --> 01:28:05,290 ...why not say farewell to your dream of becoming some stuffy samurai? 1085 01:28:05,420 --> 01:28:09,250 - Why not come live with me? - No, I cannot do that. 1086 01:28:09,460 --> 01:28:13,240 But... you can't go on chasing a dream forever. 1087 01:28:14,060 --> 01:28:17,970 No, it's not a dream... It will soon be reality. 1088 01:28:18,180 --> 01:28:21,650 You can't live like that forever, Sir Niiro. 1089 01:28:21,820 --> 01:28:23,530 It may be a dream... 1090 01:28:23,660 --> 01:28:26,690 No, let's say it is a dream. At least, until it does come true. 1091 01:28:34,380 --> 01:28:37,130 But, Sir Nosaka... It can't be! 1092 01:28:37,340 --> 01:28:41,170 Well, I too think that it's impossible. 1093 01:28:41,300 --> 01:28:43,050 But, Kisoya... 1094 01:28:43,180 --> 01:28:46,650 You must be familiar with the Tengu Faction of the Mito clan? 1095 01:28:46,860 --> 01:28:51,930 - Yes. - A part of their group is in Edo, and... 1096 01:28:52,180 --> 01:28:55,960 ...we know for a fact that they're planning on carrying out an unfavourable scheme. 1097 01:28:56,180 --> 01:28:57,850 Yes... 1098 01:28:58,060 --> 01:29:01,410 Well, I'd like to believe otherwise, but... 1099 01:29:01,540 --> 01:29:06,660 ...what if what we fear does happen? 1100 01:29:07,380 --> 01:29:13,330 You see, the Lord seems to be concerned about the matter. 1101 01:29:13,460 --> 01:29:19,130 Although Tsuruchiyo's "death" was officially recorded... 1102 01:29:19,260 --> 01:29:25,770 ...the Lord has recently been asking about him... most emphatically. 1103 01:29:25,940 --> 01:29:30,650 The fearless Lord Himself... asking three times! 1104 01:29:32,740 --> 01:29:36,130 Now that we've come this far, he can't claim his official lineage. 1105 01:29:36,260 --> 01:29:38,610 Lf... even if it were only a glance... If our Lord could... 1106 01:29:39,020 --> 01:29:44,290 Yet, we cannot not let Sir Tsuruchiyo know anything. 1107 01:29:44,540 --> 01:29:49,810 This is such a shameful way of doing things... but we have no choice. 1108 01:30:09,420 --> 01:30:12,250 The feelings of the one and the only His Highness, Lord Li... 1109 01:30:12,340 --> 01:30:16,930 ...and your consideration and concerns, Sir Nosaka... 1110 01:30:17,060 --> 01:30:19,970 ...are completely understood, sir! Allow me, Kisoya, to see what can be done! 1111 01:30:22,260 --> 01:30:25,050 Welcome. 1112 01:30:26,660 --> 01:30:29,450 One, two... 1113 01:30:32,380 --> 01:30:35,770 - Welcome. - Oh! Thanks again for the other day. 1114 01:30:35,980 --> 01:30:38,180 - Is he here, by any chance? - You mean Sir Niiro? 1115 01:30:38,180 --> 01:30:39,140 Yes. 1116 01:30:39,140 --> 01:30:40,810 No, sir. 1117 01:30:40,940 --> 01:30:42,650 That's odd... 1118 01:30:42,860 --> 01:30:45,240 I went looking for him along the banks of the Kamakura, but he wasn't there. 1119 01:30:45,420 --> 01:30:48,690 - So I assumed he'd be here. - Oh, I see. 1120 01:30:48,860 --> 01:30:51,690 I did the same thing when I happened to be in Yokoyama this morning... 1121 01:30:52,020 --> 01:30:54,650 - And, what happened? - Well, he was in then. 1122 01:30:54,860 --> 01:30:57,160 I bothered him for a little while before coming home. 1123 01:30:57,460 --> 01:31:00,650 I see... I wonder where he could be...? 1124 01:31:00,980 --> 01:31:07,180 - Is this... an urgent matter, sir? - Well, it may be, it may not be... 1125 01:31:07,180 --> 01:31:11,130 - Well, then, please come in! Come in! - Yes! Thank you. 1126 01:31:21,780 --> 01:31:25,770 At times, he can be like a detached kite drifting away! Such a troublemaker! 1127 01:31:25,940 --> 01:31:29,010 Lt'd be nice if he'd walk in here while we're talking. 1128 01:31:29,220 --> 01:31:32,170 Oh, Sir Kisoya... didn't you say that it's an urgent matter? 1129 01:31:32,420 --> 01:31:35,210 Well, it's not exactly that urgent, but... 1130 01:31:36,580 --> 01:31:40,250 You see, a ship carrying some lumber will be arriving tonight from Kiso. 1131 01:31:40,380 --> 01:31:43,290 By evening, I must get going to take care of that... 1132 01:31:43,460 --> 01:31:47,160 ...so I thought it'd be nice if I could see him during the day, just for a moment. 1133 01:31:47,380 --> 01:31:50,690 I see. In that case, I will send my clerks to a place where he might be found. 1134 01:31:50,860 --> 01:31:53,970 Though, I cannot guarantee that he'll be there. 1135 01:31:54,220 --> 01:31:56,250 Oh, if I could impose on you to do that! 1136 01:31:56,380 --> 01:31:58,490 And... where might that be, if I may so ask? 1137 01:31:58,700 --> 01:32:00,650 The Mito Mansion in Koishigawa. 1138 01:32:00,860 --> 01:32:01,860 "The Mito?!" 1139 01:32:01,860 --> 01:32:06,290 The first time that he came here he was with Mito people, amongst others. 1140 01:32:06,460 --> 01:32:12,210 Since then, men from Mito are always coming here asking for Sir Niiro. 1141 01:32:12,340 --> 01:32:14,490 So, that's the only place that I can think of. 1142 01:32:14,700 --> 01:32:17,260 Sir Tsuruchiyo has been... associating with Mito men?! 1143 01:32:17,740 --> 01:32:21,330 Yes. They all seem to be on rather good terms with each other. 1144 01:32:22,980 --> 01:32:26,570 Well, at any rate, in that case, he might be back by now, so... 1145 01:32:26,740 --> 01:32:28,210 ...I shall head over to the Kamakura riverside now. 1146 01:32:28,380 --> 01:32:32,610 Besides, using a palanquin, I could be at the Mito Mansion in no time! 1147 01:32:58,540 --> 01:33:02,740 - Oh? Why, it's you, Okiku. - Sir Niiro hasn't been back yet? 1148 01:33:02,740 --> 01:33:04,530 It doesn't seem so... 1149 01:33:04,620 --> 01:33:07,410 What about the Mito Mansion? 1150 01:33:07,660 --> 01:33:10,450 It's not important enough to get me to go all that way. 1151 01:33:12,180 --> 01:33:15,010 Okiku... what brings you here? 1152 01:33:19,220 --> 01:33:20,740 Sir Kisoya... 1153 01:33:20,740 --> 01:33:21,690 Huh? 1154 01:33:29,940 --> 01:33:33,330 I... Okiku of Sagamiya... feel a bit of resentment! 1155 01:33:33,580 --> 01:33:34,450 Huh? 1156 01:33:34,660 --> 01:33:38,330 I sense that there is something about him that you're not telling me. 1157 01:33:38,500 --> 01:33:43,210 Even if you can't tell anyone else... I ask that you tell me, of all people! 1158 01:33:47,380 --> 01:33:51,690 I know it's rude for me... Okiku of Sagamiya... to say this, but... 1159 01:33:51,820 --> 01:33:53,650 ...it feels like you're not being frank with me. 1160 01:33:53,860 --> 01:33:56,850 Why, it's not whether or not I'm being frank... 1161 01:33:58,300 --> 01:34:03,210 It's just that, if I may be blunt... I have something on my mind. 1162 01:34:03,380 --> 01:34:06,850 But it's something that only I can be concerned about. 1163 01:34:06,980 --> 01:34:08,610 I don't know if it'll actually be a problem or not. 1164 01:34:08,860 --> 01:34:11,450 What is it... that you're concerned about? 1165 01:34:11,660 --> 01:34:17,090 You said that Sir Tsuruchiyo was quite friendly with the men of Mito. 1166 01:34:17,260 --> 01:34:19,820 When I heard that, I panicked. 1167 01:34:20,060 --> 01:34:23,570 Is there a problem with him associating with the Mito? 1168 01:34:23,740 --> 01:34:28,010 Okiku... you do know about the Tengu Faction of Mito? 1169 01:34:28,220 --> 01:34:32,130 Yes, well... that they caused a great commotion. I know that much. 1170 01:34:32,340 --> 01:34:37,460 Unscrupulous members of the faction have been sneaking into Edo. 1171 01:34:37,620 --> 01:34:39,890 That's the rumour that's going around. 1172 01:34:40,060 --> 01:34:45,490 Okiku... about the men Sir suruchiyo was with... 1173 01:34:45,660 --> 01:34:48,490 Are they new to Edo? 1174 01:34:48,700 --> 01:34:50,890 Now that you mention it... 1175 01:34:51,060 --> 01:34:55,130 ...l've seen some new faces... who, I'm told, were recently posted here. 1176 01:34:55,380 --> 01:34:56,520 "New faces?!" 1177 01:34:56,980 --> 01:34:59,170 Yes. Among my many Mito customers... 1178 01:34:59,260 --> 01:35:01,010 ...are new faces with Satsuma accents... 1179 01:35:01,140 --> 01:35:03,520 ...as well as some who seem to be from Choshuu. 1180 01:35:12,580 --> 01:35:16,250 Okiku, listen... About Sir Tsuruchiyo... 1181 01:35:16,420 --> 01:35:18,290 Have you noticed anything unusual about him recently? 1182 01:35:18,540 --> 01:35:21,530 No... Nothing particularly. 1183 01:35:21,700 --> 01:35:25,730 The other day... Well, when he came to visit me for the first time... 1184 01:35:25,860 --> 01:35:28,490 ...in five years, he told me something quite puzzling. 1185 01:35:28,620 --> 01:35:32,050 He said he'd soon become a noble samurai... or words to that effect. 1186 01:35:32,260 --> 01:35:35,620 - Oh, he told me that, too! - What?! 1187 01:35:35,620 --> 01:35:38,250 It was just this morning, in fact. 1188 01:35:38,460 --> 01:35:41,730 I thought that he must be dreaming, but... 1189 01:35:41,900 --> 01:35:44,690 ...he said that he would soon become a noble samurai. 1190 01:35:48,140 --> 01:35:50,930 Okiku... I'm afraid that he'll... 1191 01:35:52,940 --> 01:35:54,770 Huh...?! 1192 01:35:59,460 --> 01:36:02,290 Forgive me, Kurihara... 1193 01:36:04,020 --> 01:36:06,290 I'll... 1194 01:36:06,420 --> 01:36:08,800 I'll do it... 1195 01:36:08,980 --> 01:36:11,770 Finally, tomorrow morning... 1196 01:36:12,740 --> 01:36:15,090 For both of us, I shall strive to do my best! 1197 01:36:15,460 --> 01:36:17,290 If I may ask, Sir Kisoya... 1198 01:36:17,420 --> 01:36:21,250 ...what did you mean when you said you were concerned about something? 1199 01:36:21,420 --> 01:36:23,290 Sir Kisoya... 1200 01:36:23,540 --> 01:36:28,450 No, it's just my imagination! It can't possibly be for real! 1201 01:36:28,660 --> 01:36:32,360 I just... cannot make any sense of it all. 1202 01:36:32,500 --> 01:36:34,170 Just exactly what are you talking about? 1203 01:36:34,380 --> 01:36:35,600 Okiku, it's just a rumour. 1204 01:36:35,700 --> 01:36:39,450 Understand? It's just some rumour floating around. 1205 01:36:39,580 --> 01:36:43,970 A group, led by Mito men, along with Satsuma and Choshuu ronin... 1206 01:36:44,140 --> 01:36:45,970 ...plans to assassinate Honorable Elder Li... or something. 1207 01:36:46,540 --> 01:36:48,570 That is ridiculous! It can't possibly be true! 1208 01:36:48,700 --> 01:36:50,090 With the world in a state of turmoil... 1209 01:36:50,220 --> 01:36:54,450 ...unfounded rumours are bound to appear and be spread around. 1210 01:36:54,620 --> 01:36:57,490 But, if we paid attention to them all, we'd all die from worry. 1211 01:36:57,740 --> 01:37:01,330 Very true! I agree with you. I hope that's the case here. 1212 01:37:01,500 --> 01:37:04,170 But, what if... 1213 01:37:04,300 --> 01:37:08,450 - Just, what if... - I understand. 1214 01:37:08,700 --> 01:37:11,850 Sir Kisoya, your concern is that... what if Sir Tsuruchiyo... 1215 01:37:12,020 --> 01:37:15,210 ...becomes one of the conspirators. 1216 01:37:15,340 --> 01:37:17,290 These days, those wanting to become a samurai can do so by... 1217 01:37:17,460 --> 01:37:23,690 ...being of service to the clans of Mito, Satsuma, or even Choshuu. 1218 01:37:23,940 --> 01:37:26,850 Y... Yes... that's right. 1219 01:37:27,060 --> 01:37:29,890 But, what's so wrong with that, then? 1220 01:37:30,100 --> 01:37:30,940 What?! 1221 01:37:30,940 --> 01:37:33,320 What?! Sir Kisoya, I too cannot believe... 1222 01:37:33,540 --> 01:37:37,730 ...that such a thing could possibly happen right here in Edo. 1223 01:37:37,900 --> 01:37:42,920 But, if it were to happen, it wouldn't mean the end of the Tokugawa. 1224 01:37:43,100 --> 01:37:47,210 And if it happened, Sir Niiro would become an honorable figure. 1225 01:37:47,340 --> 01:37:49,490 It's so courageous... It's so like him... 1226 01:37:49,660 --> 01:37:51,850 ...to depend on nobody but himself. It's a goal worth pursuing. 1227 01:37:52,060 --> 01:37:55,760 No! It can't be allowed! Y... You can't be serious! It's ridiculous! 1228 01:37:56,020 --> 01:37:59,850 Nowhere in this world does the child kill the parent... It's absurd! 1229 01:38:01,980 --> 01:38:05,450 Okiku... the truth is that... 1230 01:38:05,620 --> 01:38:08,130 ...Sir Tsuruchiyo's real father is... 1231 01:38:08,300 --> 01:38:11,250 ...the Lord of Hikone, Himself! 1232 01:38:31,980 --> 01:38:35,520 So, anyway, Kojima... 1233 01:38:35,700 --> 01:38:39,290 ...Niiro is not aware of this yet? 1234 01:38:39,820 --> 01:38:41,850 Correct, sir. 1235 01:38:41,980 --> 01:38:45,290 As I informed you earlier, sir, in preparation for tomorrow... 1236 01:38:45,460 --> 01:38:48,610 ...I went to the Kamakura riverside to confirm our plans with him. 1237 01:38:48,740 --> 01:38:51,450 However, Niiro was nowhere to be found. 1238 01:38:51,580 --> 01:38:56,130 Just then, Kisoya Masagoro entered from the front, a bit hesitantly. 1239 01:38:56,260 --> 01:38:59,210 I immediately sought a place to hide. 1240 01:38:59,380 --> 01:39:02,690 A while ago, I reported that there seemed to be... 1241 01:39:02,820 --> 01:39:06,570 ...a mystery regarding the close relationship between Niiro and Kisoya. 1242 01:39:06,700 --> 01:39:09,370 I became somewhat curious about that, sir. 1243 01:39:09,500 --> 01:39:12,530 Before long, Okiku of Sagamiya arrived... 1244 01:39:12,660 --> 01:39:15,690 ...and they discussed the incredible story which I've just reported! 1245 01:39:15,860 --> 01:39:17,290 I knew that I had to report here as soon as possible, sir, but... 1246 01:39:17,460 --> 01:39:20,970 ...I couldn't move until after the two of them had left! 1247 01:39:21,100 --> 01:39:23,130 Also, the way they were talking... 1248 01:39:23,300 --> 01:39:26,920 ...leads me to believe they'll visit Niiro tomorrow, to tell him the truth. 1249 01:39:33,980 --> 01:39:36,770 Take care of it by tonight... 1250 01:39:39,780 --> 01:39:44,900 - Who shall we send? - We need our own men for tomorrow. 1251 01:39:45,100 --> 01:39:47,890 So, Sir Hoshino, perhaps you ought to contact our friends in the clan... 1252 01:39:48,060 --> 01:39:50,050 ...and ask them to dispatch people unrelated to tomorrow's events. 1253 01:39:50,300 --> 01:39:52,130 Uh-huh... 1254 01:39:52,300 --> 01:39:55,010 But, if many men are running around in the middle of the night... 1255 01:39:55,140 --> 01:39:57,930 ...the suspicions of the gate guards will surely be aroused. 1256 01:39:59,660 --> 01:40:03,090 Better to do it early in the morning... 1257 01:40:03,260 --> 01:40:05,210 ...using ten or so strong swordsmen. 1258 01:40:05,460 --> 01:40:08,250 Please make the necessary arrangements at once, sir! 1259 01:40:23,820 --> 01:40:26,730 Sir Niiro Masagoro 1260 01:40:32,100 --> 01:40:33,890 "This is a matter of great urgency." 1261 01:40:34,020 --> 01:40:38,250 "When you wake up in the morning... please come to Fukagawa." 1262 01:40:38,420 --> 01:40:41,610 "Please be sure to come." 1263 01:40:41,820 --> 01:40:44,280 It cannot be done. 1264 01:40:44,460 --> 01:40:46,760 Because, tomorrow, finally... will deliver the chance of a lifetime... 1265 01:40:46,940 --> 01:40:49,730 ...a major event, the outcome of which only heaven knows. 1266 01:40:59,740 --> 01:41:02,690 Oh? I'd expected that it would get chilly... 1267 01:41:02,820 --> 01:41:05,610 ...but this is really cold for the "Peach Observance." 1268 01:41:57,700 --> 01:42:00,610 If you're thieves, you must've had too much to drink! 1269 01:42:00,700 --> 01:42:03,050 Reveal your names! 1270 01:42:16,980 --> 01:42:21,410 Oh? You're all unfamiliar faces... 1271 01:42:21,580 --> 01:42:24,170 Which House are you from? State your names! 1272 01:42:29,940 --> 01:42:32,730 Damn you! 1273 01:42:39,580 --> 01:42:44,050 As scheduled, at 5.00am, the eighteen comrades gathered... 1274 01:42:44,220 --> 01:42:47,760 ...in front of Atago Shrine at the top of Mt. Atago. 1275 01:42:47,940 --> 01:42:51,930 Then, they went to the Sakuradamon Gates, and made themselves ready. 1276 01:42:52,060 --> 01:42:56,490 Sir Hoshino Kenmotsu, along with one man, assumed the vanguard. 1277 01:42:56,660 --> 01:42:58,690 They stationed themselves inside a nearby tea parlour. 1278 01:42:58,860 --> 01:43:02,610 Hagiwara Matasaburo and the six men of the First Unit, on the right... 1279 01:43:02,780 --> 01:43:05,340 ...took positions by a trench near the checkpoint. 1280 01:43:05,500 --> 01:43:10,050 The Main Unit, on the left, waited in front of Matsudaira Osuminokami's Mansion. 1281 01:43:10,180 --> 01:43:13,530 It consisted of Sir Sumida Keijiro, the Sub-Leader, and six others. 1282 01:43:13,660 --> 01:43:18,330 To the rear of the Main Unit were three men lead by Kadowaki Shozaemon. 1283 01:43:18,420 --> 01:43:20,690 They stationed themselves at the side of Uesugi Mansion. 1284 01:43:20,860 --> 01:43:24,090 The snow, which started falling the night before, showed no signs of abating. 1285 01:43:24,220 --> 01:43:26,850 Would the heavens bring us fortune... or misfortune? 1286 01:43:27,100 --> 01:43:30,130 It usually doesn't snow this much in the morning. 1287 01:43:30,380 --> 01:43:32,010 It's certainly rare during an occasion like the "Peach Observance." 1288 01:43:32,220 --> 01:43:35,970 It sure is. By the way... have you become an officer yet, or...? 1289 01:43:36,180 --> 01:43:39,880 No... Things don't seem to go my way. 1290 01:43:40,620 --> 01:43:42,530 But, soon my dreams will come true. 1291 01:43:42,900 --> 01:43:46,650 That's excellent, sir! I hope it happens soon! 1292 01:43:48,700 --> 01:43:50,060 7:30? 1293 01:43:50,060 --> 01:43:51,340 Yes, sir. 1294 01:43:51,340 --> 01:43:52,940 The entourage will come now? 1295 01:43:52,940 --> 01:43:53,770 Yes, sir. 1296 01:43:53,980 --> 01:43:57,890 As today is March 3rd, the procession celebrates the "Peach Observance." 1297 01:43:58,140 --> 01:43:58,530 Uh-huh. 1298 01:43:58,700 --> 01:44:02,930 But, with all this snow... the Daimyo must be having a hard time. 1299 01:44:03,180 --> 01:44:07,050 - Lady... I'll leave the money here. - Yes, thank you, sir. 1300 01:44:16,140 --> 01:44:18,520 Arrow ends and a circle means... 1301 01:44:18,660 --> 01:44:21,490 ...Sir Mori, Lord of Ecchuu. 1302 01:44:23,940 --> 01:44:25,490 Huh? 1303 01:44:56,940 --> 01:44:58,850 I'm glad I made it in time! 1304 01:44:59,020 --> 01:45:01,730 No... I'm sorry that I couldn't get here sooner. 1305 01:45:05,500 --> 01:45:09,970 I was assaulted this morning by nine assassins, hence the delay. 1306 01:45:10,140 --> 01:45:12,600 I'm afraid they might have been Li's men. 1307 01:45:12,700 --> 01:45:14,410 Are the other comrades all right? 1308 01:45:14,580 --> 01:45:17,040 So far so good. 1309 01:45:17,220 --> 01:45:19,130 However... 1310 01:45:19,220 --> 01:45:22,450 ...all the Choshuu men... and, except for Arimura Jizaemon... 1311 01:45:22,620 --> 01:45:26,090 ...all the Satsuma men... failed to show up. 1312 01:45:26,220 --> 01:45:30,970 As a result... we're slightly shorthanded... 1313 01:45:31,140 --> 01:45:34,570 ...and so I've been impatiently waiting for you to arrive. 1314 01:45:34,820 --> 01:45:38,010 My apologies. 1315 01:45:38,140 --> 01:45:39,930 Where should I place myself? 1316 01:45:40,140 --> 01:45:42,730 Just like we planned, you're with the First Unit, on the right. 1317 01:45:42,980 --> 01:45:44,610 To the right of the checkpoint? 1318 01:45:44,860 --> 01:45:46,690 Yeah. 1319 01:45:48,060 --> 01:45:50,850 I expect you to do your best. 1320 01:45:55,460 --> 01:45:58,970 Sir Kenmotsu... the assassins that I fought earlier... 1321 01:45:59,140 --> 01:46:01,210 ...they weren't sent by you, were they? 1322 01:46:01,860 --> 01:46:03,890 Don't be ridiculous. 1323 01:46:04,100 --> 01:46:06,400 A true ronin, a starving dog... 1324 01:46:06,580 --> 01:46:10,360 ...nobody can predict what he might do. 1325 01:46:10,540 --> 01:46:15,770 Besides... should the Mito fail to distinguish themselves... 1326 01:46:15,940 --> 01:46:18,530 ...certainly, you wouldn't want the world to know. 1327 01:46:18,660 --> 01:46:22,010 Might as well play it safe and kill him. 1328 01:46:22,140 --> 01:46:25,730 Now, that's a plan that Sir Hoshino, the cold-blooded one, might consider. 1329 01:46:25,980 --> 01:46:28,650 Here we are, critically shorthanded! 1330 01:46:28,820 --> 01:46:30,570 Niiro, how dare you accuse me! It's ridiculous! 1331 01:46:30,780 --> 01:46:36,170 Wait! Even if you try to leave me out, I won't let you! 1332 01:46:36,340 --> 01:46:39,650 I've long waited for this chance to gain renown, here at the Sakurada Gates! 1333 01:46:39,780 --> 01:46:45,130 With strength paramount... I'll take Li's head with my own hands! 1334 01:46:45,300 --> 01:46:48,370 I won't allow anyone to get in my way... be he friend or foe! 1335 01:46:49,100 --> 01:46:53,330 With you in such a frame of mind, we can all feel invincible. 1336 01:46:53,500 --> 01:46:55,730 Well, then... show me your prowess. Go and behead li! 1337 01:46:58,020 --> 01:47:00,850 Well, then... 1338 01:47:25,020 --> 01:47:28,250 Sir Niiro! 1339 01:47:28,420 --> 01:47:31,210 Sir Niiro! 1340 01:48:55,340 --> 01:48:58,090 Please, sirs! Sirs! I have a complaint against you! 1341 01:48:58,460 --> 01:49:00,840 - Insolent fool! Get out of the way! - I've a complaint against you! 1342 01:49:17,340 --> 01:49:19,720 Receiving Sir Hoshino Kenmotsu's signal... 1343 01:49:19,900 --> 01:49:22,410 ...the First Unit attacks the palanquin's vanguard. 1344 01:49:22,660 --> 01:49:25,450 Next, they engage the rearguard. 1345 01:49:32,660 --> 01:49:37,010 The Main Troop storms Li "Kamonnokami" Naosuke, head on. 1346 01:49:54,860 --> 01:49:57,650 Damn it! 1347 01:50:01,940 --> 01:50:04,730 Damn it! Damn it! 1348 01:50:04,860 --> 01:50:06,370 Damn it! 1349 01:50:46,580 --> 01:50:48,530 Damn it! 1350 01:51:09,740 --> 01:51:11,450 No, you fools! 1351 01:51:11,700 --> 01:51:15,090 Fools! The fools! 1352 01:51:23,700 --> 01:51:27,090 Fools! Idiots! 1353 01:52:10,340 --> 01:52:12,930 Let go! 1354 01:52:13,140 --> 01:52:15,970 Damn you! 1355 01:52:25,700 --> 01:52:27,530 Fool! 1356 01:52:45,220 --> 01:52:48,010 Open the gate! Open the gate! 1357 01:52:51,300 --> 01:52:52,970 Open the gate! 1358 01:54:25,620 --> 01:54:29,970 Fools! This means that Japan holds no future for the samurai! 1359 01:54:57,740 --> 01:55:00,690 Niiro Tsuruchiyo, a Bishuu ronin... 1360 01:55:00,820 --> 01:55:04,890 ...beheaded Elder Li Naosuke, not knowing that Li was his father. 1361 01:55:15,380 --> 01:55:18,890 However, by order of Sir Hoshino... 1362 01:55:18,980 --> 01:55:23,770 ...all records concerning Niiro were purged the night before. 1363 01:55:23,940 --> 01:55:29,690 Thus, Niiro Tsuruchiyo was never a member of our conspiracy. 1364 01:55:32,380 --> 01:55:37,290 However, the fact remains... that the one who took the head of Elder Li... 1365 01:55:37,460 --> 01:55:41,210 ...was, without a doubt, his own son... Niiro Tsuruchiyo, himself. 1366 01:55:41,500 --> 01:55:43,570 Look! 1367 01:55:43,740 --> 01:55:46,730 I won't let this head go for less than 200-koku! 1368 01:55:46,900 --> 01:55:49,810 No... even 300 would be a bargain! 1369 01:55:49,940 --> 01:55:51,730 Look! 1370 01:55:51,900 --> 01:55:54,130 Here's today's paramount achievement! 1371 01:55:54,260 --> 01:55:56,050 Elder Li's head is in the hands of... 1372 01:55:56,220 --> 01:56:00,170 ...a Bishuu ronin, Niiro Tsuruchiyo! 1373 01:56:02,340 --> 01:56:06,330 It was March 3rd, the first year of Man'en. 1374 01:56:06,500 --> 01:56:08,800 On the day we celebrate the "Peach Observance", it was unusual... 1375 01:56:08,980 --> 01:56:11,770 ...to see Edo cloaked in unrelenting snow. 1376 01:56:11,940 --> 01:56:15,690 Such were the events that transpired at the Sakurada Gates. 1377 01:56:34,860 --> 01:56:41,040 The End 121454