Original subtitles

PART I: BLOSSOMS

March 1701

Every spring the Shogun sends greetings to the Emperor in Kyoto.

In reply the Emperor sends envoys to the Shogun's castle in Edo.

OKITSU

Quiet Be quiet

The envoys are leaving Show your respect

We pray for your success

We await your speedy return

Such a strain having nobles here

Yes, and no tips A loss for us

Imperial envoys Too bad They're assigned to our inn

Don't take it out on your clothes

Fold them up

Yes, yes Too bad being an adopted son-in-law

What's that?

Talking to myself

Master of this inn, but without an heir I'm nothing

Complaining?

Becuase I'm master of this inn great men talk to me

I hear the latest news I guess it depends how look at it

Master, a crowd wants the bath water the nobles used

To drink?

No, to wash themselves They believe it prevents illness

Give it to them And get me a masseur

My shoulders are so sore

People see nobles as gods, but in reality

In reality they're broke

Say, did you lend him the money?

Look

What's this?

For the loan I gave him

A terrible hand

EDO

Make way

The Shogun's dog

The August Dog is passing

RESCUE STRAYS HARM TO DOGS PUNISHABLE BY DEATH

You are the Shogun's favorite My gift may not be worthy of you

It is small, but a rare one from a foreign land

With this I feel I hold the power over the world in my hands

I am glad it has found favor in your eyes, my lord

The imperial envoys arrive soon

All is ready to welcome them

I can rest easy with you in charge Kira

Have Asano and Dat� sent greetings?

Yes, two bolts of silk from Dat� Dried bonito, I think, from Asano

What? Asano is now in charge of Reception Only bonito from him?

But surely to you, as Grand Master of Ceremonies, he's been generous?

No, I've received nothing from him

How strange

A post like Reception is the key to a lord's success

Yes

It's how we recognize his ability

Especially Asano

His vast estates have grown; he's added salt farms He's very rich

Yes, yes, quite so

You've also started salt farms?

Ours can't be compared with his

So recently I sent most politely to request his help

But he flatly refused

Refused?

He said it was the former lord's secret formula

So he couldn't tell even me

And after I had sent gifts, too

Now he needs you to help him

Even the score

He was free to refuse me, but it is my official duty to teach him

There are many ways to teach Make sure he learns his lesson

Time to go to the Castle, my lord

At this hour?

Actually, I'm going to bring the Shogun here

You see, he visits me sometimes

For a reason

Feast your eyes

Truly delightful

I've kept you waiting

I'm on my way What fun

The Shogun loves both learning and ladies

What he wants, he is determined to get

Our ranks differ, but we are alike

Without a desire for money and women, life has no value

With lust and greed as my values, I intend to live a long life

Lord Yanagisawa even offered his own wife to the Shogun

She agreed to it

That is how he rose to his post

Now there is nothing he cannot do

Tomi, are you listening?

Please live a long and greedy life

What?

Our son has been adopted by the mighty U�sugi Clan

You have become Grand Master of Ceremonies

You are related to Lord Yanagisawa

What more could you want? I don't understand

Why be satisfied with that? I'm only getting started

Pardon

Tachu?

There was a messenger from Dat�

Again?

And then one came from Asano

Oh? What did he bring? Where is it?

Is this all the head of Reception sends me?

Tachu, Lord Dat� is only assisting Lord Asano

Yet he sends this fine Kaga silk

Two boxes of a hundred gold pieces, and paintings by Shinyu Kano

Asano is mocking me That's all I can think

So it seems

Tachu, when I sent you to ask about the salt farms

We did our utmost--a European vase and two hundred gold pieces

But he returned them

And now, when he needs my advice, he sends one paltry roll of silk

Chamberlain

Gengoemon, you're so rushed

I just heard that we sent Lord Kira much less than Dat� did

Yes I've heard

Do something

Fujii is with out lord about it

A word, my lord

Lord Dat� gave Kira

Dat� has his way, I have mine

But

I don't like bribery I hate it

It's the cause of corruption in the government, isn't it?

As long as he teaches me

I will honor Lord Kira, and treat him with due respect

Thank you for your concern But I will do as I see fit

Have you been here long?

A little while

You always stop when you see me

Tomorrow I must leave for Denso Mansion

Until the envoys go back?

Yes, we must converse with them at night as well

It's my duty and can't be helped

A brief separation

We can't even talk to each other

Don't say such sad things

Play the koto for me every day at this time

I know I'll hear it wherever I am

I will, with all my heart Please carry out your duty safely

Yes Kuranosuk� wrote me a letter from home

He too is concerned

With his letter and your music, I'll do well at my duties

What? Asano's chronic illness has flared up?

He knew I was coming to inspect

Yes, but suddenly

Suddenly what? He didn't want to see me, so he is ill?

Of course not

Can he carry out his duties?

I feel better

Lady Asano's medicine helped

Tell Lord Kira I will join him

Lord Asano, no one can take your place in this important role

Are you aware of that?

I had a sudden attack today

That is no excuse

To fall ill at such a time is a grave error It is negligence

Forgive me

That was my official opinion

But I am here unofficially today Take good care of yourself

I feel better now

Thanks to the medicine from from your lovely wife?

Show me around then

Everything seems in order

A gorgeous screen by Yusho Worthy of your famous clan

Yes, even I, Grand Master of Ceremonies, find no fault here

I am unworthy of your praise

Please tell me where I may be lacking in the future

Very well, I will teach you some of what I know

Yes, I humbly ask you

In a position of this kind, gifts are of the utmost importance

Head of Reception means head of gift-giving Understand?

Answer me if you do

Yes

It is crucial to be generous to those you meet along the way

The word will spread, you will be well liked, your duties will ease

It's expensive, but it leads to success if you are careful

The more generous you are, the better the results

Understand?

What is this, Lord Asano?

Old mats in the room where you will receive imperial envoys?

Is this fulfilling your duties?

I have apprised you fully of all the requirements

Old mats will not do

But when I asked the other day, you said they needn't be changed

I said that?

You are joking

No You said it

An old man's memory slip?

Not in something so important Change them

But there's no time to change five hundred mats now

Still, I hear you are rich Maybe you can if you pay enough

But there is a way not to have to waste so much money

if you used your money wisely

Understand?

Anyway, this won't do

My lord, it sounds as if Kira will overlook the mats if we pay him

But you know the Kemmu Code expressly forbids bribery

It's supposed to stop corruption in the government

Kira is easy to bribe, but my integrity won't allow it

But in such an emergency

Your lord is an obstinate man Indulge my pride

My lord, please let me handle the changing of the mats

Gengo, can it be done?

If our clan's honor is at stake

You make it sound easy But five hundred mats by morning?

I'll do it if I have to enlist every mat maker in all Edo

Gengo, thank you

Pardon

I am Takebayashi, vassal of Asano Are you mat makers?

No? I'm sorry

We're mat makers

Mat makers? Keep calm

Refuse and you're dead

Refuse what?

Oh, yes Keep calm

I am Takebayashi My life depends on the favor I have to ask you

I understand But to send over all my hands on such short notice

But I am Gengo Otaka humbling myself before you I beg you

I'm sorry, but your humility is none of my affair

I see It can't be helped

I don't understand what

What are you doing?

Committing hara-kiri

What? Not here, please

So, you'll help us?

This is unfair

Our clan's honor is at stake

We won't make it at this rate

Too slow Too slow

Can't you do it faster?

What's happened to Yasubei Horib�?

He remembered another big mat maker and went for him

Must be Otokichi A drunk

Yasubei the drinker going after a drunken mat maker

Another round

Another big one

Nice cheery voice And orders a big one instead of singles

You understand drinkers

Isn't that right, neighbor?

You seem like a strong drinker

"Seem" is not the word

A bottomless pit Never full

My kind of man

And you?

Never lost a drinking match, so I never have to pay

I like that Shall we? I'll have to make you pay

A barrel of sak� here

Otokichi, at last I found you

Horib�, you're just in time for our drinking match

Not now, please I need your help

On my honor as a man of Edo, I'll help after this match

No, come with me now

No you don't

We're about to drink our way to a fast friendship

You can't take my drinking partner

I'm very sorry, but

Your name, sir

I am Gemba Tawaraboshi, masterless samurai

Teacher of the Hozoin lance

Will you finish by dawn?

Please Leave mats to mat makers

But I'm worried

Worry about Horib� He took my place against a strong adversary

Dawn already

One more drinking spot I'm not done in yet

I'll win You can't get me drunk

There must be some reason I can't

Could be

Hard work serving a lord But leave mats to mat makers

We did it All finished

All done

Did we do it?

Mats as far as the eye can see

We did it I'm so glad

Please bear with the rest and complete your duties, my lord

Yes You have upheld our name I can't thank you enough

Please instruct me

Do I receive the envoys at the top

Or at the bottom of the steps?

Are the envoys to be greeted at the top steps or the bottom?

Once more

Do I receive the envoys at the

Why are you asking this so late?

Forgive me Please instruct me

Do as you please

You dislike receiving my advice

I have no answer for you

Lord Asano

I am sorry for you

Lord Wakisaka

I heard Listen

Any mistake you make would reflect on Kira He'll tell you

Be calm and composed when he does

Thank you

Your duties end tomorrow

Until then close your eyes, cover up your ears and play dumb

Play dumb?

The smallest upset could make your vassals homeless

Please be cautious, Lord Asano

Lord Asano, wrong place

Get to your place

Quickly Facing Lord Dat�

MARCH 14 THE SHOGUN ENTERTAINS THE ENVOYS WITH A NOH PLAY

Oh, I'm so sleepy

What if we doze off at the play?

Then I'll do this

An hour till the ceremony Please take your ease

You understand?

You're late, Lord Asano

I'm sorry

I've studied this

Lord Dat�, are the elders' instructions clear to you?

Make no mistakes

Lord Kira, may I see that?

Lord Kira

Since you don't like instructions, Lord Asano, you needn't see it

Then I cannot carry out my duties Please let me see it

If I fail, I will be punished

Unless I see the instructions, I won't know

Lord Kira

Lord Asano

It wasn't instructions It was only fire warnings and such

But Lord Dat�

Lord Kira is just being unpleasant

Yes, unpleasant Why only to me, day after day?

Come, it's almost time to meet the envoys

One moment, Lord Dat�

Lord Kira

Lord Asano

Lady Keishoin wishes to thank the envoys

Please inform me when the ceremony ends

Most certainly

Oh, if you have a request, please ask me

He knows nothing

Lord Kira

What do you want?

Please show me the instructions

How tiresome I said no

Why not?

What a face You'll be late meeting the envoys

What are you doing? Let go

Asano

Watch yourself This is the Shogun's Castle

Draw your sword here and your clan is doomed You know that?

Whatwhat are you doing?

Apologizing? Then I'll listen

I lost my temper I was rude Please forgive me

You admit you acted like a country lord, you backwoods baron

You don't like being called that?

You're ignorant, yet you scowl I can't stand the sight of you

Kira, you

Have mercy

Remember where you are

One more stab

You're inside the Castle Your clan will be ruined Calm down

Lord Asano drew his sword

A doctor Lord Kira is injured

Wretch

Defiling my crest with blood

I begI beg your pardon

Closer

Where are the envoys?

Luckily, they didn't hear

I see

Everything went as planned But the Elders are meeting now

Why? The rules are clear Keep to the rules

Calm down Calm down

The trouble is between Lord Kira and Lord Asano No one else

We are to investigate the motives behind this incident

I will now question you formally

When you wounded Lord Kira you were of course mentally deranged?

No, I was not

If you were, you will be absolved of any crime

You were deranged, were you not?

Not at all

I regret with all my heart that I drew my sword in the Castle

Please punish me

You must have had a reason, and a wish to explain

Do not hesitate to tell us

I forbid him to explain

Why? For what reason?

We did not come to hear excuses

But, Lord Kondo

If he was not mentally deranged, he is a criminal

Our responsibility ends there

Lord Asano

I am sorry Sorry only that Kira escaped

Sister

I have just heard

How could he do such a thing?

The Asano Clan is doomed

As his brother, I'll suffer too

Our parents back in Hiroshima, and your parents too

Up until this moment, I was happy

But what my brother has done makes me bitter

Lord Daigaku, will Lord Kira live?

I don't know

What will they do to Lord Asano?

I have heard nothing yet

I must know as soon as possible

Lord Daigaku, have pity

Pardon

A messenger reports that our lord is in Lord Tamura's custody

Lord Dat�

You must feel relieved that your duties are over

Yes, but I am disturbed over that unexpected incident

Have you heard about Kira?

No, not yet

They let him go home without a reprimand, to see to his wounds

Lord Dat�, do you think it's fair?

I do not

What about Lord Asano?

He wasn't allowed a word in his own defense

They turned him over to Lord Tamura with orders to commit hara-kiri

Late cherry blossoms, Lord Asano

Especially lovely when they fall

Soon the moon will rise

Farewell on such a spring evening must be painful

Isn't it, Lord Asano?

Tell me if you have any messages for your clan at home

I have nothing to say

But my people will wonder when they hear of this day

Enough talk All is prepared

"Sadder than blossoms swept off by the wind

"A life torn away in the fullness of spring"

I'm afraid So afraid

But the injury is so slight

Fortunately

But he is of advanced age Anything could happen

Hyobu, I married into the U�sugi family

But I will risk my new riches to save my father

Let me be a dutiful son no matter what happens

Tsunanori Tsunanori

Help me

I haven't had my fill of wealth or women yet

And, thankfully, no one has censured me

I want to live much longer

I'll do anything for it

If I'm called a coward, I'm proud to be one

Help me Help me

I'm counting on you

MARCH 15, 1701

COURIERS SPEED FROM EDO TO LORD ASANO'S CASTLE

They're coming

MARCH 16

MARCH 17

MARCH 18

Osei Osei

Take care of her I am Sampei Kayano of Lord Asano's clan

We are on an emergency errand Forgive us Forgive us

THE ASANO CLAN CASTLE IN AKO

Father

Everyone here?

How is the town?

Very quiet

Wondering whether you will fight or surrender the castle

We must decide that now

I had hoped to live out my days uneventfully

A useless soldier in peacetime

Quiet, please

The time for debate is over

Let me sum up the arguments

The choice is either to fight or to try to rebuild our clan

That has been decided

Oh? Which?

Our lives belong to our late lord

We can't surrender the castle We've decided to die fighting

You agree to that?

Of course

All agreed?

Anyone with other ideas, step out

No one?

Okano

We are ready to die

But has Kira died of the wound our lord inflicted?

If so, we have no excuse for anger

Your ideas would change too

Is he dead, Chamberlain Ono?

No, I think it's only a rumor

Have you become reluctant to die?

What? I am Kurobei One, samurai I have given my word

I would like your advice

Yes, ask me

The problem is

I am responsible for the treasury

We still have about 7,000 gold pieces left

But our clan has issued 12,000 gold pieces in paper currency

We are 5,000 short

But we have given loans, and there is money we have not collected yet

If we collect, we will cover it

I'm relieved to hear that

It doesn't matter to us, since we are going to fight and die

But our paper money is used by merchants, fisherman and farmers

It will disgrace our dead lord if we don't redeem it

Quite true

I would like permission to collect loans and taxes

I want to do this before we fight

Yes Please hurry

Lord Wakisaka is on his way to Takatori Pass with 3,000 men

He will take over our castle

Please redeem the currency before that happens

THE ARMY OF LORD WAKISAKA

Say, girls

A real bargain

Who cares? I'm clearing out

Me too Armies are coming from all over to surround Ako

You should run too

I believe only those loyal to our clan are here

I wish to tell you my intentions

Isn't our plan clear already?

Don't we die defending the castle?

My thinking has changed somewhat

It's easy enough to die fighting

But we have a larger responsibility as vassals of Asano

What?

What happened was our lord's fault

So our task is to restore the Asano Clan

We must entreat the Shogun to let Lord Daigaku succeed our lord

I believe this must be our course of action Do you all agree?

No That would be a betrayal of our loyalty

Chamberlain

Remember our lord's last words?

He said his people would wonder when they heard of his death

Why should we bow to injustice?

I understand But I won't change my mind

Isn't that Kazuemon Fuwa?

Kazuemon

Kazuemon Fuwa

Terrible, isn't it?

We've just returned from Edo

Then you haven't heard they're going to die defending the castle?

It's been decided?

I'm just a masterless samurai now

But I rushed over to defend the walls, at least, for my dead lord

Look I'm poor, but I still have my armor, and my lance isn't rusty

How dare Ono run off with the clan treasury

I suspected him, but chose to hope

I was too trusting

From now on I'll doubt everyone

Emoshichi Yato is outside and wishes to see you

I can't

I told him that

Give my regards and send him away

What about the paper money?

The farmers have let us redeem it at only 60% of face value

Many of them are more loyal than samurai

Anything left for vassals?

If we don't fight we can divide our reserve of war funds

Still here?

He won't leave till he sees you

The chamberlain is busy, so tell me what you want

I am Emoshichi, son of Chosuke, the bookkeeper

Father is ill

He is unable to present himself to show his loyalty He suffers

So, inexperienced as I am, I came to take his place

I understand But you are not of age Stay home and be a good son

Father's rank is low Is that why?

No, it isn't

But Matsunojo's under age

He is Chamberlain Oishi's son

Loyalty is loyalty, chamberlain's son or bookkeeper's

I should have been born a chamberlain's son too

With so many opinions we can't resolve this

So if you are throwing in your lot with me

Sign your name in blood

Proceed regardless of your rank

Oishi says they'll surrender, but they're reinforcing the castle

So it's war?

We are surrendering, but we must repair unsightly damage

Only 61 signatures It's a hard thing to ask

In desperate times, it's every man for himself

Oishi got men to sign in blood

What for? He's surrendering

Maybe to calm the hot-heads

It may be a trick Go back to Edo and report to Chamberlain Chisaka

Traitors

Lord Uesugi's spies That's who spread rumors of Kira's death

Now we know Kira is still alive

How?

Hyobu Chisaka is Lord Uesugi's famous chamberlain

He's spying to see if we seek revenge

Horib�, don't tell this to anyone Keep it your secret

Hurry to Edo Find out what Kira and Lord Uesugi are up to

Yes, without fail

LORD WAKISAKA'S CAMP

I think Ako will fight

I can't believe they'll surrender tomorrow

Please look

Seems to be more than paper

Paper holds the castle's history Vast amounts of paper

Now I can surrender it with an easy mind

I am Chamberlain Kuranosuk� Oishi

I respectfully surrender the castle

I am Lord Wakisaka, appointed to take charge

I will guide you, my lord

I've heard you're a very able man

The care you have taken in handing over this castle impresses me

I was prepared for battle

But it enhances my reputation to be able to avoid it

I owe it to you

You are kind

But you must have a reason for handing it over so readily

Tell me I'll keep your secret

There is none Those were my orders

A battle might have spilled innocent blood

Please, tell me your real intent

I was your lord's friend in Edo

I know that from his letters

Lord Asano broke the Shogun's rules but he upheld the samurai code

He risked his clan to stop corruption

Please don't speak of that

My late lord was responsible for what happened

As his vassals, we plan to appeal to the Shogun to restore his clan

We have sworn our allegiance

Please help us by adding your entreaty to ours

A vassal's way to repay his lord?

Yes

Truly?

My lord left a last poem

"Sadder than blossoms swept off by the wind

"A life torn away in the fullness of spring"

Was he sad to die young, or is his poem about his resentment?

No, it shows his deep concern for his vassals

I'm sorry

They surrendered the castle to set up Lord Daigaku

What about Oishi?

He's moved to Yamashina

Thank you

Go soon and check up on Oishi

Restoring the clan?

Do you believe that, Ikkaku?

Revenge

Yes, the real reason Oishi gave up the castle was to get Kira's head

I'm glad to see you well, my lord

Yes, I hope to live to a hundred

The reason I studied to become Grand Master of Ceremonies

Was to avoid the samurai duty to die at the slightest provocation

Samurai all look very stupid to me

I too am a samurai

Well, there are different kinds of samurai

I depend on you, Hyobu, to protect me from Asano's stupid samurai

My lord has ordered me to do so

My son, who is now heir to the Uesugi clan, is very loyal to me

But my wife is a heartless woman

Afraid I'd be criticized, she went back to her parents

And left me all alone

Hyobu, I'm counting on you

I'm afraid You must help me

How was that? It's called "Tossing up bales"

What's in the bales?

Dirt Heavier than rice

So how much will Lord Uesugi pay for me?

OISHI'S HOME IN YAMASHINA

Kichiemon

Mother Kichiemon Terasaka's here

You're a big boy now

I'm very glad you've come

We have few visitors since moving here; the children miss company

I'm sorry I meant to come sooner

I came today because it's the anniversary of Lord Asano's death

You're very kind

How time flies A year has passed

Yes I'm used to a hard life, but it must be difficult for you

Be my horse Hurry

Yes, yes Out at the gate

I'll be waiting

Where is Chamberlain Oishi?

It's odd, but he's been staying in the tea houses

He hasn't been home for some time

Has he forgotten what day this is?

No, he told me to offer flowers and cakes to our late lord today

Matsunojo, copying his father, has gone fishing today

Fishing on our lord's anniversary?

They are both alike

Which tea house?

In Fushimi, Shumoku-cho

Is it Sasaya?

My sister is working there

What? Okaru?

Okaru

Sampei

You're late

I came as fast as I could This work is so hard

Haven't seen each other for 3 days

I missed you

Is your work so hard?

I forget it all when I'm with you

Forgive me, Okaru

If it weren't for that incident, we'd be married

My samurai duty prevents it now

Why were you born a samurai?

Why?

What fun You are quite a fellow

Your praise overwhelms me

You're no commoner, are you?

"I have soiled my lofty name and besmirched my family fame"

Be serious What happened to others may happen to you

Scolding me? Insolent fellow Catch him and make him drink

A punishment I welcome

I'll gladly drink it

I've been assigned to your room My name is Okaru

Uki seems tired Please lay out his bed so that he may sleep

Are you the courtesan Ukigumo?

Then may I see Chamberlain Oishi?

Wrong room?

Chamberlain Oishi? My name is Kiken Murakami

No, no I'm Kyuemon Ikeda You've got the wrong man

Here you are This is my room He's the one who made the mistake

Wait An assumed name I know who you are

You women We must talk Get out

You too

Oh, no She's my special one Forgive me Let's go

Oishino, Ikeda Do you realize today is Lord Asano's death day?

Let's see

Don't pretend

Even we outsiders know this day How can you fondle women and drink?

Scolded for drinking with my own money

Your own money? Be quiet

You borrowed 600 ryo from Lady Asano when you gave up the castle

Steward Ochiai told me

Was it for this purpose?

Tricking the enemy is noble, but you go too far in this debauchery

How can you succeed like this?

Tell me how you really feel

Samurai from everywhere are looking to you

Please tell me your real thoughts

You

No violence You will be ridiculed

He's not what I'd heard

Has money corrupted him so badly?

I have no more illusions

Has he left?

Pretending to sleep?

I hate self-righteous men I love brothels

His name means "Great Stone", but he's less than a pebble

A cowardly samurai

I've been here five days He's still away

They say a man who strays in old age is harder to cure

Please stop Let father alone

I'm sorry

But your brother and sisters are so young I feel sorry for them

Be my horse

All right, a bucking horse

Sampei Kayano?

Yes

No mistake?

You killed an old woman last year

Are you Saburoji Kaiga?

Yes, I've been looking for you

I found your offering for Mother

Think that's compensation?

Draw I will avenge my mother Your sedan killed her

Wait

Wait, wait

Are you going to kill me too now?

Where are the children?

Gone walking with Kichiemon

His coming is a great help I'm too tired to play with them

You're away so much, they miss you

Riku, I seem to have become this Kyuemon Ikeda person lately

Sampei? What a nice surprise Come in

I have a favor to ask

My samurai honor requires that I die

I see

Our lord had to commit hara-kiri for his samurai pride

Now you will die for samurai honor?

I must, but I signed my name in blood to join you

Please take my name off the list

I understand

One more favor

Since I must die, please tell me your real intentions

Real intentions?

Yes, your real intentions

My dissolute life is to deceive the shogunate

We can prove our loyalty only by restoring the Asano Clan

You know I'm going to my death, will you still lie to me?

Our lord, goaded beyond endurance, knowingly sacrificed his clan

They made him die like a criminal

I believe in you, Chamberlain

I'm going to die Please tell me the truth

Sampei, I have formed the habit of doubting people

I couldn't make up my mind Up till this moment I have wavered

But your words have decided me

Then?

I will defy the shogunate

Chamberlain

You have my word

Saboruji? Come in, it's open

You brought seconds?

That wasn't necessary

Sampei It's time Come out

You're it Come to the clapping

I caught you

Hara and Onodera? Did you pay my bill here for me?

Yes

I see Then let's drink

The money man's here He'll buy you whatever you want

Sampei Kayano committed hara-kiri

I see

What's wrong?

Nothing I just heard that my pet sparrow died

Sparrow?

Oh, yes Let's hold a wake for it tonight

I'll be the chief abbot You play the samisen and pray

"This then I cannot miss

"We'll borrow these like this

"And have her hold this so

"With a finger thus, you know

"And now, how is this sparrow?

"Very good, so very good

"And now it is the Abbot's turn

"For the sparrow of Kayano he'll incense burn

"Guiding him among the dark souls below

"O Merciful Buddha, on him blessings bestow

"Very good, so very good"

Uki's crying Uki's crying

You caught me? My tearslook, they're this

Let's hold the sparrow's wake

Cry, all of you, cry Cry

The Shogun has banished Lord Daigaku to Hiroshima for life

We must hurry Kira's rank is high, but his holdings small

But the great Uesugi Clan is behind him

If we 61 who signed the pact are united, we have nothing to fear

Revenge is easy Finding the right way is hard

Go to Edo at once and inform our people there

I will organize around Kyoto But be very careful

Our purpose is not just beheading Kira

As samurai be ready to sacrifice yourselves for your honor

Kira's spy?

I'm sorry Please forgive me

SAMPEI KAYANO, d APRIL 11, 1702

What a fine, fresh day

Sampei loved these flowers

He did? Then he must be glad

But can he see them?

Of course he can

The living see only what's in front of them; the dead see all

Is it true, Sampei?

Okaru, when I go to Edo with the Chamberlain, you'll be all alone

What will you do?

We knew that from the first, didn't we? I'm prepared

Don't be rash

Sampei used to beg me

To live as long as I could, and take care of his grave

I guess we won't meet again?

I've spent all my money I'll have to sell my house

The end of a dissolute life Don't tell anyone for a while

I understand

I'm divorcing my wife

So she can take the children to her home and escape my reputation

Your poor family

We're off to Tajima

Goodbye

Take care

It's hard to leave even this house, since it's become home

Yes, I'm leaving it soon myself

We'll be going then

Please take care of yourself

Do you think I'm cruel, Matsunojo?

I've told your mother nothing

I trust her, but I feel a couple needs no words

As your wife, she must understand

But even so, I think she would have liked you to tell her

Her heart must be heavy now

But she left without complaint

She didn't cry, though she must have wanted to

She'll probably cry her heart out back home

No Mother will never cry as long as she lives

Right Your mother is gentle, but strong

Would you like to follow her?

Why?

I'm asking if you're ready to die

I joined of my own free will

I want justice, not fame or luxury There's only one road for me

END OF PART I: BLOSSOMS

PART II: SNOW

I saw it all The bridge collapsed

It happened so suddenly

The men were forced laborers

A lot died Hard luck

Anyway, that stone is for Lord Yanagisawa

And then?

I don't know

Get back

That lance teacher?

Yes I'm from Edo too

We worked all night, and Lord Asano rewarded us well

I've heard that a hundred times

The point is all Edo's on his side

Yes, me too

But that Tawaraboshi is becoming Kira's bodyguard for money

Say what you want to say Speak up if you're angry

Talking behind my back

We weren't

Then I'll shut up A person can't say anything any more

Hello

It's been a long time

In service to a new lord, I hear

Look at me If I were, I'd pay my bill here

Wouldn't I?

Not yet?

Matsudaira, Nakagawa, Uesugi and Kira have all asked me

But won't pay enough

I'm proud of my good right arm

I'll wait till it's appreciated

Trusted my arm, the said

Quit joking An Edo carpenter, aren't you?

Are you serious? Building Kira's house, of all places?

Serious? It's half finished

You amaze me

Now, listen

Anyone home? Fresh rice Here's your rice

Thank you

Tired?

I'll make tea Wait

"This was Lord Kondo's house, and your father built it"

When I heard that I was speechless

A tradesman's easy Tell him he's good, he forgets it's Kira's house

And so I said I'd build it

But Father was a famous carpenter, wasn't he?

He was

I want to see who's better

So it doesn't matter to me that it's Kira's house

That's your excuse?

Well, I Look this is Father's blueprint

Leaving?

Yes

Want to go for an evening walk sometime?

Me?

Yes, if you'd like to

Please don't

I won't do anything I won't

Just this

Just doing this will give me a long life

I've brought new bodyguards Please look at them

Handaya Waku

Heihachiro Kobayashi

Never mind I can't remember names I am old

I'm counting on you to protect me

Ikkaku

Is the master lancer you mentioned among them?

No, Tawaraboshi couldn't

What? If it's money, ask Lord Uesugi

What, fifty bodyguards?

Yes Tachu says he'll increase the number to 200

Does he have that much power?

Since Chisaka fell ill, he's become a chamberlain He's in control now

200 is a big job

Thank you It must be unpleasant, but please help us

Your brother's coming with the Chamberlain soon

A woman cannot do battle, so I wish to be of use this way

At this new mansion in Honjo

A carpenter has been told to build secret passages and hiding places

Okano's trying to get the plans

Kujuro, were you a samurai?

Yes, but I hated it from childhood Always duty, loyalty

I wanted freedom, so I became a commoner

What about your parents?

They gave up and told me to marry and do as I please

Yes

Really?

I haven't asked her, but my mind's made up

Good, isn't it, that you found a nice girl?

Yes

I'd like to meet her

You can, any time

No, I don't want to

Shall we go home?

What sort of girl do you like?

Like you

Liar

Tell me the truth

It's true I love you

It's true I want you for my wife

You're both in love with my sister

But you've got a nerve asking me to choose between you

I told you so You said to try

So we tried and failed

I'll say

What are you complaining about?

Otsuya? Come here

You've been with the rice man?

Oh, you knew?

They told me They say you're in love with him

What a face Didn't I promise you could make your own choice?

Come say what you want outright

We've promised to get married

Well, well I envy you

Don't

Please be nice to Kujuro

Saying it with your back to me?

So you've done it

What?

It means I'd better not waste any time either

What's wrong, Okano?

I've never been so miserable

It's for the sake of justice

Deceiving an innocent girl

You didn't really fall for her, did you?

It'll be worse if you did

Either way, I'm jealous

Why don't girls ever fall for me?

But you're the only man I've ever loved

When I found you, I gave up drinking and gambling

I won't let you go Ever

I'll earn money, buy my freedom, and we'll get your master to agree

Yes We'll work hard and make a home

Listen

I'm not respectable But you'll take me?

I can't count the number of men I've known I told you, didn't I?

Don't leave me

Know what I prayed for?

Kira's palanquin

Now's our chance Hurry

Too many Going to Yanagisawa's about that fire Smart old fox

What about our men? Many are running out of patience

I've seen to that

You got carried away, but remember that we're all in this together

We're not just after Kira's head

You should know that

Do not act on impulse

Are you safe? There are many of Asano's men in Edo

I had to come when I heard that a fire had struck your home

No, no, it's made me richer

Something shining under the gifts of condolence?

The elders and lords all sent me trees and rare garden stones

I don't know why

Like some? Is your new home done?

Oh, it's you

Look, lend me the plans a few days

What for?

Kujuro wants to borrow it

Why would a rice shop man want it?

To boast that I'm the sister of the man who built this fine house

I see For my dear sister's sake

You will? Thank you

Yes, of course That's what I'd like to say, but I can't

Carpenters never show blueprints to anyone

It's a promise sealed in blood So it's no

But

No

I said no

Are you really in love with him?

What about him? Is he serious?

He's a samurai's son?

Wants his parents to see I'm an important carpenter?

So they won't look down on you?

Then I'll lend you my Komyoji Temple blueprint That's my

No, Kira's mansion

Say, he's a samurai's son? And he only wants the Kira blueprint?

Say, does he really love you? Does he?

Or does he just want those plans?

No, no He's not that sort

Think I'll go listen to a street storyteller

Anyway, you can't have the plans

Tawaraboshi's becoming Kira's bodyguard? Not likely

Can't tell Uesugi's paying

He's proud of his skill

Money may move him

If he is Kira's bodyguard, we'll have to get rid of him fast

Will you do it, Horib�?

Kujuro

A lovely visitor

Kujuro

I brought the plans

Thanks I'll get leave to go home tomorrow, and be back in three days

I struggled to get it for you

So please be back in three days

I'm sorry to cause you trouble

You know I'm Tawarboshi?

Alone, Yasubei?

I know you That mask's no good

I expected 5 or 6 men But then I might have had to die

Is that why you came alone?

You've fallen into my trap

What trap?

I'm not working for Uesugi

But I knew the rumor would bring you to my school to fight

Or to get me drunk and kill me

You came, as I thought

And now I know what I wanted to know

Don't talk nonsense

I attacked you for criticizing the Asano men

Is that right? I don't think so

Yasubei, when is it?

When is what?

Oh, that's right You can't talk

But I think of you as a friend

We'll have a farewell drink

Yasubei

Don't be suspicious of me

IMPERIAL ENVOY: MITSUTADA OBANA

Welcome

Steward Obana will stay the night

Show every respect

Forgive me Your arrival was not expected We will make ready

Thank you for staying with us

My journey is on behalf of Prince Seikanji

We are taking his offerings to Zojoji Temple

I see The Prince stayed at this inn last spring

Remember, when Lord Asano drew his sword in the Castle

Yes, of course

Were you accompanying him then?

You were? I'm the son-in-law here Sorry I was too busy to see to you

I have the list of offerings

As innkeeper, you have to report these things, don't you?

Please study it well

LORD ASANO'S CREST

Say, listen Get out, quick

What's wrong?

Otoki, don't get excited Don't sit down Where'd it go?

Who?

Not him, it Where is it? Where?

What?

You know, that

There'd have been advance warning if Steward Obana was coming

Say Officer Koga wishes to see him

No, Officer Koga

Why? I have doubts, so I'll check

If he's and imposter, you'll be an accomplice

No, it's no mistake He's Steward Obana

Well, you would know

Actually, checking was an excuse

I wanted to thank him for being so kind when he was here last year

Just let me in for a minute

No, he's not the same

What do you mean?

He's here on behalf of the Prince this time

He's in a high position, so you can't see him

Do you have proof?

Proof? The proof is this

Show due respect Bow

The Prince's own handwriting

Last year I asked him for some, to have as our household treasure

Today, I received this from Steward Obana This is your proof Study it

Yes, without a doubt

Hanbei, I thank you

Take this You may need it again at the Hakone guard post

You're strange today

No, what I did was right

Remember Otoki, our guest's name is Steward Obana Understand?

Yes, I've begun to believe it too

OYAMA-YA INN

What Okano got for us is priceless

A new storehouse with a passage underground out to a vacant lot

We must be careful here

Father

If those Dutchmen knew, would they think we're doing the right thing?

I see That's how you young people think

That's not all we think about

But our willingness to die for a just cause is the same as yours

Takada

Seems our time is approaching

I can't even go to Lord Kira's housewarming

I may not last out the year

Nonsense Cheer up and imitate Lord Kira a little

How is he?

Very fit Full of lusty vigor

I'm glad he's well, but be careful of his surroundings

I've seen to that with bodyguards and a fortified new house

In an emergency, there's a secret exit

I'm sure it won't be needed

I hope not

Well done, Otaka

Kira's opening his tea room on the 14ththe day our lord died

That's the day we must do it

What a racket They must be crazy

It must annoy you

Yes, but I can't complain to men of high standing

We're annoyed too Why don't they do something?

Who?

You know, Lord Asano's men Not only usall Edo is angry

What use is complaining?

Kuranosuk�, I'm glad you've come

I am glad to see you well

I wish I could say that, but everything has changed

My deepest sympathy, Lady Asano

Please have some

Thank you I will, if I may

Excellent sak� Warms you up inside

Poor hospitality, living as I do now

Um�, serve him more

Thank you

By the way, what brought you to Edo so suddenly?

Actually, I came to bid my lady farewell

Farewell?

It's not just me We've all been masterless samurai too long

We're tired of being so poor that we're nearly starving

But no lord will employ us

So I've decided to settle down in Yamashina and become a farmer

Chamberlain

Some of the men say we should go and avenge our lord

But it's only the voice of their desperation

Or their miserable attempt to succeed by attracting attention

Kuranosuk�

You really mean to retire to Yamashina?

Yes, my lady

How could your samurai spirit allow you to?

If I closed my eyes to reality and led a raid on Kira's mansion

I would have popular approval

But the world is not so simple

I understand

Till today I believed there were still true samurai among you

That is why I lived on in a world that holds no meaning for me

I must pray for my dead husband

I bid you farewell

Please wait, my lady

For the last time, may I offer incense at my lord's memorial?

No, you may not

I do not refuse for my own sake

The prayers of a person like you would not please our late lord

Chamberlain

What is my brother doing?

Junai Onodera

Is he giving up his sword also?

Yes, I believe so

It's too shocking Tell him I can no longer call him my brother

Yes, I will

Lady Asano scolded me, so I almost forgot this

It holds keepsakes from Lord Asano

They are too precious for a farmer so I'd better return them

Not today Tell her tomorrow when she's in a better mood

I will keep it

I won't see you off

Then you didn't know?

He doesn't come or write, so

I see But I told him to tell the customers Young men are unreliable

Kujuro went home

Ohand when is he coming back?

He isn't coming back any more

I see

The girl came, Okano

Okano Time to get ready

Will it stop snowing by nightfall?

Have you written to your mother?

What about?

Not to grieve too much, and to say prayers for us

That we are not dying over a personal grievance

And to forgive her undutiful son for leaving this world before her

If my own mother were alive, I think I'd have said the same thing

No, Father

I don't think I wrote my true feelings

I don't know how to express it, so it came out sounding ordinary

Father, I don't regret that my life is so short

But I wish I'd been able to write a letter that satisfied me

To have doubts until the moment we dieperhaps that's just human

I knew it

I knew you were no ordinary rice shop man

But a samurai of the Asano Clan

I've betrayed my friends by telling you My life ends tonight

I didn't want to die having lied to you

I'm glad You've repaid my love

I'm happy

Our last farewell Smile when you see me off

Let's have a drink There's still time, isn't there?

Yes

But when it's time, let me go

Promise you will

I know No matter how hard it is, when it's time I'll do this

Then go quickly, without a word

See, Otama, he came, didn't he?

She called me the god of poverty

I said no, customers will come in after me, so I'm the god of luck

See what I mean?

I went by your school

You did?

I see

Otama, hot sak�

You've found a new place to serve?

Yes

I see It's come

Good of you to tell me Let's drink the night out in farewell

No, I can't

We're friends, Yasubei Horib�

Drink and recite your heroic deeds

Not tonight Not tonight

I see

Come in

What did the doctor say?

Nothing serious, he said

It's not true, is it?

Tell me the truth

All right

It'll be 5 or 6 days till you can pull a noodle cart again

That long?

Don't worry Just stay in bed till you're well

I'll have my husband get your medicine

Hungry?

If you want something, do this Understand?

Only 39 men

They've stopped coming

Chamberlain, ifjust in case

What?

If they don't all come, we'll need to change the plan

And if someone who doesn't come

Say the rest

If Kira bribes someone, and he reports us

Stop it

If there were such a person?

It's obvious Police will swarm in

Quiet, please

Many unforeseen things may happen before we die

We all have parents, wives and children

And the time isn't up yet

But

Those who promised to come tonight have shared all our hardships

And they've stayed to the end

Should we doubt them now?

It's unworthy of us

It's a fine line between doubting them and regretting that we came

Let us have faith in the missing, and believe everything favors us

Let's wait quietly

Kira will stay the night after opening his tea ceremony room

Forty men including Otaka?

What's wrong, Horib�?

I feel restless

Quite a few are still missing Your son Yasubei too

He'll be here without fail

But why am I so jumpy? It's not like me

I wish they'd come Is it still snowing?

I'll see

I'd feel better if someone came

Tanaka, Nakamura and the Suzuki brothers have dropped out

At this hour? Why?

Doesn't say

They couldn't come themselves

But it says they'll keep silent

Being together gave them courage to drop out

Courage? They're afraid to die Is that courage?

It is a kind of courage

Think how much they suffered till writing this letter

It must be even harder for those who've dropped out without writing

What's the matter?

Help me I must be on time

They'll think I'm a low-born coward who ran away

What are you talking about?

Please tell them Kichiemon is sick He's ill, so

Where? Who?

I can't tell you that Not that

He's drunk Ignore him

Let's go

Another one

Sorry I'm late

Yasubei

Drinking at a time like this I was worried You fool

I'm going

What's wrong? Same thing over and over

I say I'm going and you shake your head

If you go, I'll report you

I'll tell them

That the Asano men are raiding Kira's mansion tonight

Will you still go?

I can't believe it

Be reasonable Let me go Please

No Kill me first

Or give up being a samurai And give me up

47 men have come

47 men To know what is right and to do it are two different things

But those who decided not to do it will suffer longer than we do

Hara

The plan is that

At the sound of the 4 o'clock drum we enter from front and rear gates

Be extremely careful of fire

No attacks on unarmed bystanders, or women and children

Our object is Kira

Whoever finds him, whistle

What's the meeting about?

Just get the numbers right

Here you are

Here it is

Intruder

I have just heard What was Kuranosuk�'s bundle?

A ledger

Ledger?

Yes, my lady, with accounts of all the money he borrowed from you

Some for our lord's tombstone and offerings

Some for travel expenses, for the needy, for weapons

He made up the deficits out of his own pocket

A letter too?

Yes He says, "Nothing was wasted It was all spent for tonight"

Then Kuranosuk�?

He didn't trust Um�, so he said nothing before leaving

I had no idea I'm so ashamed

I'm ashamed, yet happy

Our lord would also rejoice

"Nothing was wasted It was all spent for tonight"

"For tonight"

We, the vassals of Lord Asano, have come for Kira's head

Get up

Come out, everyone, a raid

Begging your pardon, we have come for Kira

As neighbors, you may try to send aid

But I speak for all of us in begging you not to help him

Well done

If Kira's men scale the wall, we'll drive them back

Thank you for your words

Go

Gone

Still warm Keep looking

Watch it Out of the way

Come out

Old man

Father

Yasubei, stay away

Are you hurt?

Fool You ruined my chance at glory

Kanzaki of Asano Clan

Shimuzu is my name

Go back No one passes

Who are you?

Gemba Tawaraboshi Nobody passes

Find him?

No

Mountain

River

Find him?

Not in the secret passage Search

Kira, where are you?

See him?

No Gone

Search

Gone Search

Escaped?

Gone Where is he hiding?

We'll be in trouble if it takes too long

Lord Uesugi or police will come

After all this

If that happens, we've vowed to commit hara-kiri all together

Even if we do, this will not have been in vain

If we can only find him before dawn

Can't you find him? No hope?

Let's gather the men here

I want to thank you again for your long suffering

We must discuss what to do next Please blow the whistle

The same scar

Wait

Yes

We meet for the first time We are the vassals of Lord Asano

We have come for your head

Please commit hara-kiri

I will not

Why should I?

I don't want to die

It can't be helped

Lord Kira, prepare to die

Tell me one thing

Were you just acting?

Or did you really like her a little?

I loved her

What?

I asked permission to come and tell her

Otsuya

Kujuro

Forgive me, Otsuya

Otsuya

47 of Lord Asano's former vassals raided Kira's residence

They went in armed

In flagrant disregard for the authorities, they beheaded Kira

For this deed, they were ordered to commit hara-kiri