Original subtitles

DAIEI FILMS, LTD

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Twice in the 13th century, during the Kamakura period,

in the Bun-ei and Koan Epochs,

The 'Genko no eki' Mongol invasions

threatened Japan's very survival.

In addition, continuous natural disasters throughout the country,

brought about political corruption as well as religious unrest.

A feeling of hopelessness gripped the nation.

That was when Nichiren, a patriotic Buddhist priest,

published his treatise, the 'Rissho-Ankoku Theory' for peace.

It sounded a warning bell to people who had been living in lethargy.

This movie is about Nichiren's passion to save the nation and the people,

as well as solving the nation's unprecedented crises.

Based on true historical events, this is a story which must be told.

(Nichiren to Moko Daishurai) NICHIREN & THE GREAT MONGOL INVASION

Produced by NAGATA Masaichi

Planning by TSUJI Hisakazu SAITA Takeo Screenplay by WATANABE Kunio

Cinematography by WATANABE Takashi Sound Recordist OHTANI Iwao Music by YAMADA Eiichi

Narration OHMA Hiroyuki Art Direction by KAMISATO Yoshizo Lighting by ITO Sadakazu

Special Effects Filming IMAI Hiroshi TUKIJI Shibasaburo HOMMA Seikan

Cast

HASEGAWA Kazuo

ICHIKAWA Raizo KATSU Shintaro HAYASHI Naritoshi AWASHIMA Chikage KANO Junko

NAKAMURA Ganjiro SHIMADA Ryuzo CHIBA Toshio FUNAKI Yoichi MIAKE Bontaro KAGAWA Ryosuke

SUGIYAMA Masasaku SHIMURA Takashi

HARA Shiro DATE Saburo GODAI Sentaro

TAKAZI Jun HIDARI Bokuzen ISHIGURO Tatsuya

Translation by Kumiko Ishii

Script adaptation by Merlin David

Authoring by John Gainfort

Directed by WATANABE Kunio

Oh, I've been looking for you!

High Priest Roji-sama is waiting for us. We've got to go.

Rencho came home for the first time in 12 years.

He's been observing a fast. And it's his last day.

I would like to stay here tonight. I can't be any closer though.

You can see him tomorrow. He's praying. Don't disturb him.

For 17 years Rencho dedicated himself to Buddhism.

He toured Mt. Ei and went on a journey around the country.

He then returned home to Awa Province,

to establish a Buddhist sect in Kiyozumi Temple.

He began preliminary practice. Day seven.

I could immediately tell Rencho has become a strong man.

I'm glad he's my successor.

Thank you, but it was the result of your blessing.

Truly, I am blessed with an exceptional child.

Listen, you two.

It's an honor to welcome Rencho as successor of Kiyozumi Temple.

We should highly be praised.

Truly, Rencho must be fortunate.

Also, tomorrow I will see him make his debut.

- I'm just speechless. - That's right.

People in our area will all gather at Nanmendo (South Hall) tomorrow.

They'll surely cheer Rencho's preaching.

"Namu-Amida-Butsu". (Mantra of Jodo-Shinshu)

Rencho! Rencho!

Fasting is over. It's dawn. Where did he go?

Rencho...!

From today on, I will be the pillar of Japan!

I will be the eyes of Japan!

I will be our nation's ship of state!

"Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo" (mantra of Nichiren Buddhism)

"Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo"

Hey!

Rencho has completed incredible training at Mt. Hiei.

He'll deliver a sermon at Eizan.

Everybody! Let's go to Kiyozumi Temple to hear it!

I heard he's become a great Buddhist Priest.

Come on! Come on! People!

Come on! Come on! People! YEAR 5 OF KENCHO EPOCH (1253) APRIL 28

YEAR 5 OF KENCHO EPOCH (1253) APRIL 28

It's an honor. Come on! YEAR 5 OF KENCHO EPOCH (1253) APRIL 28

It's an honor. Come on!

Current Buddhist teachings are wrong. But that wrong teaching is in practice.

Therefore, our society is in a state of confusion.

In order to recover from it and achieve a true peace,

we have to re-establish foundations.

In other words,

we have to listen to Shakuson's last scripture

'Hoke-kyo' (Lotus Sutra). Nothing else!

In fact, the wrong teaching had been applied instead of the true teaching,

and misfortunes have gotten worse.

Jodo-nenbutsu (Jodo Buddha) says the Lotus Sutra

is worthless and that it should be disregarded.

We have to proclaim that Jodo causes eternal suffering in hell!

Cut it out! Lousy Priest!

Nenbutsu leading to hell? Don't even joke about it!

That's enough!

Oh my goodness!

- Knock it off! - Knock it off!

No, I won't!

Cut the crap, Lousy Priest!

Who would speak the truth if I didn't?

If I, Rencho, shut my mouth, the country would be destroyed.

- Don't flatter yourself! - Back off!-Quiet!

Shakuson predicted 2000 years ago in the Lotus Sutra,

that his followers would be persecuted in every way.

Cut the crap! - Enough!-Shut up!

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo..!

What in the world is that?

I've never heard it.

Say, "Namu-Amida-Butsu."

Please listen to Shakuson's teaching!

- Knock it off! - Knock it off!

I'll kill you!

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo..!

Hey! Bring Rencho!

I'll kill him with my sword!

Bring him here! Come on!

Just a minute, please!

Since Rencho was 12 years old, I raised him as if he was my son.

He must be... insane.

I will discipline him.

So please forgive him... - No way. No!

He uttered a Buddhist prayer I'm not familiar with.

He preached to insult Nenbutsu..! That's not permissible!

What would you do if the Kamakura Palace heard about it?

Come on! Bring him here!

But if I may say something, Rencho has entered the priesthood.

Please don't kill him.

Also, if blood was shed on Mt. Rei, you would be disgraced.

Very well..!

Kick Rencho out of the mountain today!

Kick him out at any cost!

Rencho, what's wrong with you?

I have to avoid seeing people. Rencho!

How can you stay so calm?

Don't you even care?

For the past 18 years during your priesthood,

I've never forgotten about you.

Neither did I this morning.

I looked forward to seeing you make your debut.

Never have I thought about such a terrible thing.

Mother!

Shame on you! Thankless fellow!

Kiyozumi Temple, which is known as a renowned Nenbutsu temple,

was stigmatized. I was too.

But High Priest!

If I may say something, Kiyozumi Temple

will become the origin of Hokekyo. It will never be destroyed.

Don't you get too confident!

It's terrible! We will no longer be master and disciple.

Leave the mountain quickly! Otherwise, samurai will kill you!

Will Rencho be killed?

Don't hesitate!

As soon as you find Rencho, kill him!

Sir!-Sir!-Sir! - Sir!-Sir!-Sir!

Rencho-sama took the back roads and left.

Crazy Rencho... My joy and hope have gone to waste.

I'm devastated.

High Priest!

Quite a few things Rencho said today made sense to me.

Hey, Joken!

Don't say such a thing! You would go to hell.

No!

I'm just trying to say I heard a frightening truth in his preaching.

Enough! That's enough!

The reputation of the temple has been destroyed.

I could even go to hell... - No!

Rencho-sama said the temple would never be destroyed.

He may be right.

Father. Mother.

It was a long story, but you listened to it all,

and you let me tell it without interruption.

But did you understand me?

When I heard your sermon at South Hall, I thought you were insane.

I held my breath from fear and anxiety.

We wished for you to become high priest of Kiyozumi Temple.

Fervently, we've prayed for your success.

But are we wrong?

Yes, if you wish I became a priest who pleases the authorities.

As a Hokekyo follower, I will be persecuted and mocked in every way.

You would be the unhappiest parents.

However, I would be overwhelmed

with grief to think about that.

Rencho, you said earlier

that you would be the pillar of Japan,

as well as Japan's eyes,

and save all the people, didn't you?

Yes, I certainly did.

Uh-huh.

It was wrong to feel sad.

I listened to you and made a resolution.

I will not be saddened.

Rather, I have to have a feeling of honor.

Umegiku, how about you?

Um...Yeah.

I had been deeply saddened for a while.

But as I listened to you,

I've come to understand you.

You are perfectly right!

I am no longer saddened.

Rather, if you are persecuted, I will be too.

If you are killed, I am willing to be, too...!

For you are a savior,

a person for all of us in the world!

Mother! Father!

I couldn't be happier!

The more Rencho is persecuted,

the harder we have to pursue the teaching.

Rencho!

From today on, your father and mother will follow you.

I couldn't be more blessed.

Look!

A 'Ren' (Lotus flower) is blooming at night!

Strangely enough,

on February 16, when Rencho was born,

an unseasonable lotus flower bloomed in the pond.

Villagers were excited about it.

While lotus extends its roots in the muddy swamp,

it has beautiful flowers.

They remind me of you.

My parents!

From now on,

my name will be Nichiren.

Nichiren? - Right.

I will take care of the burden and despair of all people in the country.

Like the bright moon in the darkness, I must be 'Nichi' (the Sun) of the world.

Just like Ren, which mother has just talked about,

I will have to throw myself in the cloudy world

to preach the preciousness of eternal life.

So your name will be Nichiren (Day-light Lotus)...

I like it.

I would also like a Buddhist name, if you will.

Yes.

I will give each of you part of my name.

Mother, your name will be Myo-Ren.

Father, yours will be Myo-Nichi.

What do you think?

They certainly are beautiful names. - Hey, someone's here!

Oh, Jokan-dono!

Rencho-sama! It's good to see you!

So, I must have seen the wrong man.

Is anything wrong?

Yes, the villagers said that Jito-sama of Tojo's men caught you.

I got scared and ran all the way up here.

It's not safe any more.

What are you going to do?

Actually, I was going to say good-bye to you tonight.

If I leave the house tonight,

I don't know when I'll see you again.

I hate to see you off.

Please take care of yourself...

and save the people... All of them..!

KAMAKURA

For the last couple of years, we've been enduring disasters.

Yeah. The rice fields are dried up. We'll suffer a famine again.

Also, we have earthquakes.

Poor people always suffer, you know? - It's sad.

Do you know where Nichiren lives? He's a monk.

Nichiren?

Lots of monks live in Kamakura. So, I don't know.

Near Nagoshi Hill, I believe.

Oh, Nagoshi-no-Zaka!

You've never been to Kamakura before, right?

Well, it's not exactly there, but I know a monk in Matsu-ga-Dani (Pine Valley).

He's strange, you know.

Whenever fellow farmers get sick,

he comes immediately and takes care of them, you know?

Yoritsuna-dono is entertaining excessively, isn't he?

Farmers are suffering from a series of disasters,

but he doesn't seem to care.

Don't say too much.

He flatters Regent Shikken-dono, trying to get rid of us who oppose him.

What on earth is going on?

It seems he's teasing'Shirabyoshi' (Palace dancers) again.

Please forgive us!

Wait! Wait!

Wait, girls!

Help me, please!

You're in my way!

Stop it.

What? Get out! - Stop it...

Hey Monk! Which temple are you from?

The name of your temple!

Nenbutsu or Shingon..?

Neither of them.

What would you benefit from abusing women?

Hey, you!

Don't you know 'Shitsuji' (Steward) Taira Yoritsuna's Retainer, Echi Saburo?

We are here in Kamakura!

You don't know Echi no Saburo?

Thank you very much.

Go! Quickly!

Just a minute!

Aren't you Rencho-dono who has studied at Mt. Hiei?

Yes, I am Rencho.

Saké!

Come on! Drink up!

Get out of my way!

Out of my way!

Get out of my way..!

Saburo! What's wrong?

You're burning with rage.

Yoshino must have left you.

Well, a crazy monk intervened!

I was going to whip him!

But I didn't because Hiki and Shijo were watching...!

So they've both gone?

They always oppose you! They're just lousy Elders!

Dancers! Serve saké!

Tell Yoshino that she's just a woman and that

whether in this world or the next, a woman lives in hell.

How can you say that?

A Lord can also go to hell, right?

Shut up!

It's written in the sacred Buddhist scripture!

He's really angry.

Saké!

I studied at Mt. Hiei, too.

I once thought about the Buddhist teaching that divides into 8 to 10 sects.

I realized it would be the same as having two Suns.

I went to the Mt. Ei Headquarters, and asked the 'Hoin' (Chief Abbot).

But, he asked me if I was your follower, and I was reprimanded.

As I was disciplined,

I thought your 10-year training at Mt. Hiei must have been very hard.

After all, I decided to be on your side.

However, the Abbot found that out.

He cursed at me and said,

"Are you going to be a crazy monk who can't get along in the world?"

In fact, I heard about the incident at Kiyozumi's South Hall

on your first day of preaching. They say you ruined everything.

However, I was filled with emotion and found myself shaking!

I saw how you handled that samurai, Echi no Saburo a while ago.

I thought you must be the one I had been looking for,

and asked your name.

And there you are!

No one can be my teacher, but you!

Please be my teacher!

A Hokekyo preacher has a thorny path ahead of him.

In order to help people convert to Buddhism, he may have to risk his life.

The number of enemies is countless. It's like throwing eggs at a stone wall.

As a matter of fact, I'm prepared to die for Buddhism.

The past few days in Kamakura,

I've seen the corrupt government and monks.

I also saw desperate farmers and other people.

If nothing is done, the country would be destroyed.

You're the only person who can save the country.

Please consider my discipleship.

Joben!

From now on, your name will be Nissho.

So, my request has been approved!

My worry's gone.

Fear of possible death caused by preaching the Lotus Sutra

was not the reason I stayed in the cabin.

Rather, I was concerned about having no successor in such a case.

But now I have a follower.

It's you!

Thank you very much.

"NAM-MYOHO-RENGE-KYO"

What is the banner for?

I will leave for the preaching battlefield tomorrow.

Preaching battlefield?

Shingon and Nenbutsu temples in Kamakura,

as well as the Kamakura government.

They are all battlefields.

I will go there and preach on the street.

Do you go to towns to preach?

I've never heard of such a thing.

So what? There's nothing wrong with it.

For I don't own a temple,

the whole Kamakura can be considered as preaching ground.

I can preach at many places!

Places where I show the banner or where I preach

are all temples.

Would you please let me hold the banner?

You have to stay here for me.

I can't possibly think about your going without me.

In the event of an accident, what would you do?

That's why you have to stay here so as to be my successor.

Understand?

Hey, men! The monk who often comes to help us

is going to preach on the streetcorner.

Go listen to him!

He's helped us a lot.

Let's go!

We don't have two Suns and Moons!

We don't have two kings in the country!

The number of Shakuson's teaching is as many as 84,000!

However, there is only one pathway!

It's Hokekyo..!

As a Hokekyo follower, I've decided to save all the people!

That's why I'm standing here..!

I ask you to protect my master.

Can monks keep constructing magnificent temples?

Can they refrain from preaching to save people?

Is it fair that they are secure in gorgeous costumes?

No! That's not true Buddhism!

Monks should share everything with the people!

Nenbutsu, Shingon-shu and other sects misunderstood Buddhism.

They seem to spread their own problems in the world!

Nenbutsu is hell and Zen is evil!

Shut up! Shut up!

Do you speak evil of such temples as Rencho, Goraku, Jufuku?

Our lord is faithful to Nenbutsu..! How can you abuse it?

The rich and the poor are alike before Buddha!

Are you saying samurai and peasants are alike?

Monk! Don't you know the difference between hell and heaven?

You will surely go to hell when you die!

You have heaven and hell in this world!

As I have said earlier,

the government and others were busy building temples.

If they think they can go to heaven, they are dead wrong!

The Kamakura government is straight and honorable!

It's unforgivable to insult them!

Wrong!

Political turmoil is in the extreme.

How would you explain recent natural disasters, famines, and plagues?

People are starving and passing away!

Children are sold for their parents' sake! The world is a living hell!

However, Lord Hojo is busy with family conflict!

Samurai are expanding their properties!

Monks are supposed to save the world and help people!

But they are corrupt! It's completely absurd!

At this rate, the nation will be hit by multiple disasters!

Blood will be shed at Kamakura Palace. I have no doubt about it!

Cut it out!

Leave me alone.

I'm in charge of saving people!

Cut it out! Cut it out!

That's enough. That's enough.

He's a priest! Please don't get rough with him!

Step back, please..

Shonin-sama..! Welcome home!

Oh...!

Shonin..! You're wounded!

Let me treat the wound.

It's no big deal. Don't worry.

That reminds me of the body of the nation clasping its hands

in prayer toward heaven.

It's gorgeous and encouraging.

Shonin, you're just like Mt. Fuji over there.

Not quite.

I'm not like that yet.

However, I don't want Japan to be conquered by foreign countries.

I was very surprised when you joined the fray.

I wasn't aware of myself being in danger.

I listened to your preaching.

As I work at Kamakura Palace,

I completely agreed with what you had said.

Father! What's going on?

I've never seen a monk of that kind.

He was unforgettably impressive.

Which monk?

Was he from Kencho or Gokuraku temple?

No, neither.

His preaching was superb.

He could be a key national figure, rather than a monk.

What had surprised me even more...

was that when Echi no Saburo's retainers hit him, a palace dancer

joined the fray.

Oh my..! Did she really?

Yes.

I couldn't believe her spirit and gutsiness.

I have a question for you.

Are women truly devilish?

In Buddhism, there is no discrimination on the basis of sex.

The Kyomon scripture tells of a female Buddha.

If all mothers in the world are devils,

it would be a huge problem.

Is that true regardless of occupation?

Buddha is not interested in people's occupations.

Someone like you will truly become a Buddha.

What? Myself?

I would like to meet this monk.

We'll talk about that later.

Anyway, I received a letter from Kojiro-sama. He's in Hakata.

- Is everything okay with him? - Yes.

He wrote he would like to come back to Kamakura.

I bet he wants to see you.

By the way, the monk said today that foreigners might attack our country.

I'm a bit concerned.

Did he really say such a thing?

He also said...

the clans would again fight each other at Kamakura Palace.

Who on earth are you talking about?

'Shonin' (Master), Yoshino-dono went home, looking very satisfied.

Probably, some of the audience on the street appreciated your preaching today.

Don't you have soreness?

Nissho-dono!

I'm very concerned about Japan's future.

This is a draft I prepared for the Kamakura government.

Is this about one of seven disasters from the scripture?

I mean the invasion crisis?

"RISSHO-ANKOKU"THEORY (Righteousness and Pacification)

In the meantime,

the Mongols, a nomadic tribe of Asia, had a desire to conquer the world.

Specifically it was during the period between

Genghis Khan, the country's founder, and his grandson Kublai.

They had quickly conquered Asia and moved into Europe.

The border was extended to

the Arctic Ocean in the north, Red Sea in the south, and Volga in the west.

It was the largest country ever in the world.

The country was called Yuan.

It was said that wherever Mongols landed, people were killed and towns destroyed.

Not a single creature was left alive.

However, there was yet a country totally unharmed.

"GOVERNMENT"

He's sent his Rissho Ankoku Theory? Show it to me.

I can't believe Nichiren goes against the government again.

This past year, I was wondering why he hadn't preached on the street.

Now this!

A lot of monks including Priest Ryokan of Gokuraku Temple...

want to know why he is free!

They demand an explanation!

Right.

If Tokiyori-sama of Saimyo Temple and his son Tokimune-sama

had not gotten involved, he would have been killed already.

Oh, yes!

Why don't we show it to Shigetoki-sama of Gokuraku Temple?

He really hates Nichiren.

By the way, how is Yoshino doing?

Is she still Nichiren's believer?

In order to get a confession about Nichiren, I lashed her with a whip.

She's disappeared somewhere.

It's been almost 5 years since Nichiren started preaching.

How many followers do you think he has now?

Two or three hundred powerless peasants, and 12 or 13 samurai.

What bothers me is...

Shijo Hyobei and his family. They've become Nichiren's believers!

What? They have? - Yes.

Well, I'll have to do something about it.

Thank you very much Thank you very much:

'O-Shonin'-sama, other monks don't come to the poor complex.

Gonta can go to heaven.

While I'm here, I will go see your sick mother.

Has she been any better?

It's a blessing!

She is able to stand up.

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo.

- Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo - Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo.

Don't say it loudly.

You'll be arrested.

Some day, the prayer will be sung all over Japan.

Will it? Thank you very much!

Thank you very much! I hope it will be soon!

Oh, Yohachi!

'O-Shonin'-sama..!

How's your sister?

She's walking again. Thank you.

Who said that prayer?

Who said it?

I said it.

I'm sure we'll get permission from Shigetoki-sama.

As soon as we get it, kill him tonight. Don't wait until tomorrow.

Yes, sir.

It's been two years since Nichiro came here.

What an innocent face he has!

Time surely flies.

It's been four years since I first met you.

You've put your heart into the 'Rissho-Ankoku' Theory.

As a result, you were able to submit it to the government.

I feel very relieved.

It's just 50 pages long. But I had to read the Buddhist scripture,

which consists of 7,046 volumes, five times.

'Rissho-Ankoku' Theory could be my life.

You have preached more than 100 sermons on the street.

In the beginning, I was very concerned about your safety.

However, the government has taken no action so far.

I will be taken prisoner soon.

Well, not only Shijo-dono, but also Yoshino-dono,

was said to be cross-examined excessively.

What?

You haven't caught that damned Nichiren yet?

No, because Lord Tokiyori

of Saimyo Temple said not to, because he's a priest.

Rubbish! I disagree!

Ankoku Theory is useless!

Masamura-dono, capture him right away!

You can even strike off his head if necessary.

But, we can't get permission from Lord Tokiyori!

Saimyo Temple? There's no need to hesitate!

Are you sure?

Don't make me repeat myself! - Sorry.

I heard someone at the door.

Hello, Yoshino-dono! What's the matter? It's late.

How are you?

Is O-Shonin-sama all right?

Yes, he's fine.

Hello, O-Shonin-sama..!

Yoshino-dono!

I had a sense of foreboding.

So I came.

But, I'm glad you are well!

Nissho! Go wake up Nichiro.

Why?

Nichiro! Nichiro!

Yes!

Shonin-sama..! I have some bad news!

No! No! Shijo-sama!

Yoshino-dono! Where is O-Shonin..?

Over there!

Master Monk..! - Shijo-dono!

Will I be arrested?

A night raid is plotted. About 100 of Yoritsuna's samurai have set off.

Please run away!

Shonin, run away!

Please run away!

Hey! Bring Nichiren!

I am a samurai, Shijo Hyobei.

Don't use violence!

If you get violent, you'll be severely punished!

Shut up!

I was ordered by the lord of Gokuraku Temple. Move it!

Hey! Set the house on fire!

Come on! Set the house on fire!

Hey! Set the house on fire!

Set the house on fire!

Hey! Go find Nichiren!

Go find Nichiren!

Yoshino-sama was captured!

What?

I hope she won't reveal Shonin-sama is hiding here. Let's go!

Why are you deaf and dumb?

Is Nichiren dead?

If he slipped through, where?

Where did you hide his fellow monks?

You must know where!

You won't get answers to those questions. - What?

What are you doing?

- Don't use violence! - Why not?!

She's his believer!

If you lash Nichiren's believers with a whip, you should lash me too.

Can you do it? - What?

Do it if you can!

You bastard!

Hey!

It's an earthquake!

Watch out!

Shonin..!

Master Monk..!

Shonin...! Wait, please!

Look! Look at the aftermath!

We don't have time.

Spread out and help the people over there.

It would be too dangerous for you.

Stay here, please.

We'll take care of it.

We don't have enough helpers!

Master Monk!

Shonin-sama..! - Shonin-sama..!

You're doing great You're doing great:

You'll be fine soon! You're doing great.

Hey! How's the town?

Nichiren is believed to have been seen.

What? He has? - That's right.

He may use the earthquake to preach!

Go get him! - Sir! -Sir! -Sir! -Sir!

Quickly!

Everybody. Keep it up!

Buddha is with you.

O-Shonin-sama..!

You're still alive!

Nichiren wouldn't die from that kind of thing. How are the injured?

O-Shonin-sama..!

Grandma was trapped under the fallen beam and died!

Please come! - Where?

Halt..! Nichiren!

You don't need this many people to arrest me!

Go help people!

Be quiet! Tie him up!

NICHIREN IS EXILED TO IZU ISLAND

Master Monk!

Master Monk!

Master Monk!

Nichiro!

Persecution is inevitable for promulgation of Hokekyo.

Yes... Yes.

Nichiro, stay with Nissho.

I'll always be in your heart.

Would you please let me come with you, Master!

Please!

Please!

If Master is killed, I will die with him!

Go to the devil!

What are you doing? He's just a child!

Violence isn't permissible!

Nichiro!

Don't you remember that you are a Hokekyo follower?

Yes!

Nichiro, some day I will be released from exile and I'll see you again.

Izu lies to the west while Kamakura is to the east.

When the Sun rises in the east, I will think of you in Kamakura.

Nichiro... When the Moon sets in the west,

think of me in Izu.

Do you understand, Nichiro?

Yes, I understand!

Get the boat under way!

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo.

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo.

- Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo - Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo

Hey, Boatman! - Yes?

How long will it take until the rock is washed by the waves?

Well, fairly soon.

The monk will be dead too.

What a poor thing.

Nichiro, does it hurt?

No.

It's nothing compared to O-Shonin-sama's suffering.

It's no big deal.

I'm very concerned about his safety...

He must be fine.

O-Shonin-sama must be smiling somewhere.

Beginning tonight, I look forward to speaking with the Moon.

Nichiro! How true!

Nichiro! You have to change cells. Get out of here!

Uncle!

Stay away from him! - Wait!

Leave them together. - Yes, sir!

What are you doing over there?

You will die!

Mother! - Yes?

I have company.

It's late. Who did you bring?

He was standing on 'Chopping-board Rock'.

His feet were already in the water.

On the rock shaped like a chopping-board?

He must have been very lucky to stay alive.

Monk, perhaps you are Nichiren, aren't you?

I am indeed Nichiren.

I was given the word just now to report back

as soon as we find you. - What?

Please drink up.

Nichiren was tough.

But flowers won't stop blooming when he dies.

He said Nenbutsu would suffer in hell, but he went to hell first.

Nichiren must be Buddha's enemy.

His cockiness wasn't corrected.

But he's dug his own grave. - Right.

What's wrong? - My Lord!

He's a monk of wonderful moral character!

Even ordered by chief of the local samurai, we can't turn him in, can we?

Let's ask him to run away, shall we?

We were able to hide him for 30 days.

But, now we're in trouble.

If I let him go, I would be killed.

But, how can we possibly feed him to the lions?

I can't do it!

Ohh. O-Shonin-sama..! Did you overhear us?

I really thank you

for your compassion and hospitality...

up until today.

Don't mention it! - It was nothing.

For this past month, I felt as if I've been

with my father... and mother whom I had left in Awa District.

I feel awestruck!

Please don't say that.

So long!

O-Shonin-sama..! Don't go!

If you went to the head of the local samurai, you would be killed!

I can't stand it!

Don't worry.

He isn't a pagan.

I shall pray that you will live long.

Master Monk.

Give this to him when he wakes up.

He looks so pure.

Shonin-sama is probably with him in his dream.

Your follower Nissho is distantly related to me.

He's always asked me to convert to Hokekyo.

I.. won't.. live much.. longer.

It's so nice to meet you.

I see.

You will surely recover from your illness.

Renounce worldly desires, and believe in the Lotus Sutra.

Let me pray for you.

Am I brought back to life?

I can't believe it! I can't believe it!

Shonin.. Shonin-sama...!

O-Shonin-sama...!

He's dead.

Quiet! That's unseemly behavior!

I heard the Gokuraku's lord got sick due to arrogance.

Prayers don't seem to even help.

Gokuraku's lord has reportedly died!

I heard he died scowling.

I wonder where Nichiren is.

He was sentenced to exile and is now on Izu Island.

Release him from exile.

Are you going to release Nichiren?

I certainly am.

I can't believe you'd release that crazy monk.

You know you're not the decision maker.

Mother, I am a joint signer.

Arrange for his release immediately! - Sir.

Uncle! What did they tell you?

Nichiro! O-Shonin-sama will be released!

Are you happy?

Yes!

Hagie-dono!

Are you a believer of Nichiren who is in exile in Izu?

I don't understand why you ask such a thing.

You'll soon marry my son.

Therefore, I'm concerned.

When it comes to Shonin-sama, you really get upset.

Why don't you make an appointment to meet him?

No, I'm not in the position to do it.

Kingo! Where is Kingo?

Father, what happened?

Shonin-sama will be released.

We have to go greet him.

Oh! Will Shonin-sama really be released?

That's right.

I must run to tell my brother!

Hyobei, wait!

I need to talk to you! Wait!

What is it?

We agree on all things except one.

When it comes to Nichiren,

how can you behave as if you were not a government official?

Can't you purposely refrain from Nichiren's business?

That's absurd!

Nenbutsu and other sects are servile to the government.

Gokuraku, Saimyo, and Kencho Temples all flatter the power elite.

They are keeping busy with construction of temples.

They don't care about common people and farmers.

Hyobei!

Restrain yourself!

Then why do monks...

of various sects conspire to kill Nichiren?

That would be the end of the world!

Conflicts get bigger and bigger inside the government.

The lord's family also got involved and are negligent

about their duty of governing the country.

If they have money to build temples,

why don't they help common people, who are suffering from natural disasters?

You, too, are a government official, aren't you?

You must be concerned about its policy.

But when you see the lord or Yoritsuna-dono, you never give advice!

Nichiren alone risks his life.

He makes requests to the government and monks of other sects,

asking them to reflect on what they have done.

Don't you understand it?

Nichiren must have obtained knowledge...

through a tremendous amount of ascetic training.

But he denounces other sects.

He demands the whole country,

including its surrounding seas, should surrender to Hokekyo.

That's an extreme statement.

We as government officials simply can't agree with it!

I see. That makes sense.

The reason why I'm his follower is not only Buddhism,

but also his patriotic passion!

It's a mere guess, but I think...

Shonin truly wishes destruction as well as reflection of other sects.

Without him, the fall of monks would be even worse.

Do you still want to give me advice?

Get a boat!

We go greet the Master Monk..! - Sir! -Sir!

O-Shonin-sama...!

O-Shonin-sama....!

O-Shonin-sama! O-Shonin-sama::!

Master Monk!

Everybody!

It's good to see you again!

- Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo. - Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo.

A few years later, precursors of invasion were detected,

just as Nichiren had predicted. However, would it really happen?

Year 5 of Bunei Era (1268) in Hakata, Chikuzen District.

I've never seen ships that big.

I hope nothing bad happens.

They are warships, aren't they?

In other words,

if Japan and Mongolia don't establish a friendship,

they might take action. Is that what you're saying?

Mongolia is said to have defeated various countries far beyond the sea.

It says Goryeo (Korea), a country near Japan, has also surrendered.

Are you asking us to do the same?

No, no. It doesn't say so, but that is what it means.

What?

Be quiet!

At any rate, we have to discuss the issue with the Kamakura government.

Hiki Kojiro, go to Kamakura with two of my retainers.

Sir!

At the Kamakura government,

Hojo Tokimune has recently been appointed as Regent.

As Nichiren predicted, family unity was abruptly disrupted.

What's going on?

Lord, your brother Tokisuke has plotted a rebellion in Kyoto, Rokugen.

He did?

I can't believe it.

It prompted another rebellion, right here in Kamakura.

By whom?

Shijo Hyobei and his family, Uesugi, Kamijo and Taira Michihira.

- What? Has Shijo risen in revolt? - Yes.

Lord, I heard that your brother has incited rebellion.

Is it confirmed?

Hiki-dono, go kill Shijo Hyobei!

What? Has Shijo Hyobei plotted a rebellion?

That's just not possible! - Shut up!

We have evidence.

Hiki-dono, kill Shijo as soon as possible!

Are you asking me to kill Hyobei?

You can't? If you disobey,

you will be regarded as would-be rebel.

Prepare for the fight!

Hey, Shijo Hyobei! Open the gate!

Open the gate!

The government is attacking us without reason.

I can't take it!

I'll kill them all with my sword!

Wait!

Take Hagie and get out of here.

No! I'm prepared to die alongside you in battle!

No good!

If you died, who could maintain the Shijo family's innocence?

Go to Shonin quickly..!

Open the gate!

Go quickly! - Father!

You should at least run to Shonin.

If I did, Shonin would be caught as a rebel as well.

Go to Shonin..! Quickly!

But...

Go! Unfilial Son!

Father!

Where is Shijo Hyobei?

Find Shijo Hyobei!

Halt! You are Shijo Hyobei, a rebel!

Stop it!

He committed Hara-kiri.

Don't you have samurai empathy?

Shame on you!

Men! Go find Kingo and Hagie! Hey!

Hyobei! It's me... Hiki!

I was going to help you run away. But I arrived a little too late.

Hiki, please take care of my kids.

You haven't plotted a rebellion, have you?

Absolutely not!

It's because I'm Nichiren's follower.

I was accused after advising Yoritsuna-dono...

I promise that I will clear your family's name!

Fights between immediate family members.

Bloodshed... in the... Hojo Family.

That's what Shonin had predicted...

It's unspeakably cruel.

I didn't imagine that Shonin-sama's prediction

of a family conflict would claim Shijo-dono as the victim.

Where? Where are you going?

I'm going to Shijo's residence.

Don't, please!

If you did,

you would be mistaken for a rebel and get captured.

Please respect the will of my father!

Please!

10 DAYS AFTER THE INCIDENT

Hello, Kojiro!

It's nice to see you again!

Father, it's nice to see you, too.

It's been a couple of years. What are you doing there?

Come inside!

As a matter of fact, I have an urgent letter to deliver.

I have to go to the palace now.

Did you bring some news from Hakata?

A Mongol messenger has come to Hakata!

What?

Mongolia? - Yes.

It's the biggest news in Hakata.

Brother! What's the matter?

Why is my family charged with a crime we've never committed?

We have to accept our fate.

I have to avenge my father's death!

Brother!

If you went now, the government would catch you!

Also, what are you going to say to Shonin-sama and the others

who are taking care of us so warmly?

Can you still accept Kojiro as your husband?

It's so unfortunate that his father Daigaku came to kill our father.

So, where are Kingo and Hagie-dono now?

I don't know.

They're probably near where Nichiren is.

Kojiro! You've got more important things to do.

Go to the palace!

We'll talk about it later.

Yes.

According to the letter,

if Mongolia and Japan didn't establish mutual friendship,

they might use force to attack Japan.

I think by mutual friendship they mean submission.

That's how they have dealt with other countries.

Regent, perhaps you misunderstood.

I think Mongolia is just asking for warm friendship.

What's your opinion, Masamura-dono?

I agree with Yoritsuna.

Even if they want to attack us, we are surrounded by the ocean.

It will be very difficult to send troops to Japan.

Are you saying I have unnecessary concern?

Daigaku, bring your son, Kojiro. - Sir.

No!

Kojiro is of too low a rank to be here... - Silence!

It's an emergency! - Sorry.

Hurry up! - Yes, sir.

Kojiro!

What did the Mongols' ships look like?

They were the biggest ships I had ever seen.

Actually, they were sailing ships with dozens of boats on the gunwale.

How many can a ship hold?

At least a couple of hundred!

What do you think about armed forces?

I have no idea about it.

Even if we approached on smaller boats, they never welcomed us on board!

What did they look like?

They were short.

But they had gimlet eyes and a menacing demeanor.

Good. You can go now. - Yes, sir.

Lord! I heard that Mongols are said to be extremely cruel.

Our country is still safe.

But other countries have reportedly been defeated one after another.

Don't worry.

I heard that Mongols are as religious as monks at Gokuraku and Kencho temples.

Wait! Buddhism has nothing to do with it!

They must be preparing to conquer Japan!

Set the messenger from Mongolia off!

Kojiro should stay in Kamakura for a while.

- Yes, Sir. - Yes, Sir.

I heard that a monk had talked about the possibility of invasion before.

Yes. His name is Nichiren.

You mean the monk who had been exiled to Izu?

I wonder if he had predicted this incident.

Nichiren is nothing more than insane. He's full of it!

No, he's not!

I've taken care of many prisoners.

But I'm so touched by Nissho and Nichiro's behavior!

Yadoya-shi!

It's absolutely unnecessary to talk about prisoners!

Nichiren has put the nation in confusion.

He took part in backstage wheeling and dealing to achieve leadership.

With a little bit of luck, he would join forces with Tokisuke-dono to rebel.

What? Is it true that he has joined forces with my brother?

Not exactly, because he's a wary old fox.

He doesn't come up to the front line.

He can't because he's a priest.

Kingo and Hagie, who are Shijo's children, are still missing.

Nichiren may be involved.

Yoritsuna! Why don't you arrest him if what you've said is true?

You've released him from Izu, haven't you?

I've predicted rebellions in the country, and I was right!

You must have seen and heard about the fight

between siblings and relatives of the Kamakura family.

However, the scripture says something even worse will happen!

In other words, we will be threatened with invasion.

Your parents, children, and siblings could be killed or enslaved.

What do you say to living and suffering under slavery?

To stop that from happening, all people, if you are Japanese,

have to unite and protect the country!

Recite the 'Lotus Sutra' with me!

Refrain from conceit and confusion!

It's time you opened your eyes to true Buddhism!

Mother! What can I do for you?

I heard that crazy Monk Nichiren...

had called your brother's rebellion punishment of heaven.

That's not all.

He says Nenbutsu lands in hell, Zen is a devil and Shingen is baseless.

He curses and swears.

If we don't get rid of him, the nation would be confused.

It could hurt your prestige.

In my humble opinion,

I can't arrest people for simply trying to spread their faith.

Can you stand one who curses at Nenbutsu like that?

Priest Honen did the similar thing to promulgate his faith.

He said to get rid of everything but Amida.

I'm going to see Shijo's son and daughter.

Why don't you go home? - Yes.

Nichiro!

Why don't you understand?

I'm your mother!

If you didn't deal with it, Nenbutsu followers would rise in rebellion!

You must be going through a difficult time.

Please be patient.

I can't thank you enough!

You come see us so frequently!

Whenever we see you,

we talk about how much it means.

You must be hungry.

Eat this. I hope you feel strong.

Thank you very much!

Who is it?

Oh, you were standing at the back,

listening to my sermon on the street.

That's correct.

I was following you, but lost track of you.

It's so nice to meet you.

What do you want?

Did you know that Mongol ships had docked in Hakata when you preached?

No, I know nothing about it.

Have they docked in Hakata?

That's why I came from Hakata.

I'd heard you preaching and was surprised.

I submitted the Rissho-Ankoku Theory

to the government a couple of years ago.

I've been concerned about it since then.

No kidding!

Did you utter a prediction back then?

I thank you for the information.

We are now at the brink of this country's destruction.

How can we avoid it?

You must have heard my preaching.

We have no choice!

Someone's here.

Wait! Hiki Kojiro!

Hello, Shijo!

When did you come back to Kamakura?

Shijo Kingo!

I didn't expect to see you here!

Shut up! I have to avenge my father! - Wait!

I can explain!

No. Say your prayers!

Stop it!

Stop it!

What do you benefit from killing your own?

Kingo-dono!

Is it the right thing for a Hokekyo follower to do?

You can resolve the conflict with words.

Please stop it!

Shonin-sama..! Please make an exception!

Kojiro! Come on!

Stop it! - Get out!

If you want to throw your life away, throw it in front of Hokekyo..!

Oh, Master!

What is it?

Your mother is here with Yoshino-sama.

My mother's here? She's an elderly woman!

Mother!

You came! Thank you for coming!

It's been such a long time.

You're getting old, aren't you?

I wanted to see you so badly.

I ran out of patience and was attended to by Yoshino-dono.

Yoshino-dono,

I couldn't be more grateful.

Your kind word is more than I deserve.

You perform your duty day and night as a Hokekyo priest.

Nothing makes me happier!

I should have visited you.

I am overwhelmed.

When I last saw you, I was on the verge of dying.

Your good deeds were what brought me back to life.

But, remember the incident in Komatsubara? Or the one at

'Chopping-board Rock' in Izu?

I'm so glad that you are still alive and well.

Mother, I will suffer more persecutions.

Don't be concerned.

I wish you to live a long life.

Oh, I've gotten really old and wanted to see you so badly.

But, I have no more regrets.

I will go home tomorrow.

Tomorrow? So soon?

Mother!

Kingo-dono!

Did you understand me completely?

With all that, I would like you to marry Hagie.

I am going to ask Lord Tokimune to restore the Shijo family's fortune.

Please be patient.

Please!

This will be the last time I see my mother in this world.

Why didn't you ask her to stay a little longer?

You'll know it soon.

Nichiren has sent us this letter again to protest!

This time, he has sent one to the lord, too.

It's ridiculous!

Their both his direct opinions about the government's rejection of his theory.

Truly, it's not worth reading.

Throw them away.

I know what I want to do.

Shonin-sama.

You said you would do something as a last resort.

But what is it?

By all possible means,

I have to meet Lord Tokimune-dono.

It would mean that you'll be killed.

There could be no better excuse for your capture in the eyes of

government officials as well as Monks with malice aforethought.

The situation in Kyushu allows no time to lose.

Would you please think about your duty as savior?

Won't you think of some other ideas?

I can't just watch the invasion.

If I didn't take action, who could save the people?

Brother!

Oh, Brother! - What's wrong?

Shonin-sama will be captured! - What?

Come on! Hurry! - Yes!

Quickly! - Yes!

We're in trouble! The entire house is surrounded by the enemy.

They've acted too quickly.

Traitors to our nation! Give up! Cheating monks!

Stay calm!

Don't you work for the government?

How can you call us traitors to the nation, or cheating monks?

I, Nichiren, am the pillar of Japan!

Hold on! Hold on!

What does it say in the scripture?

Well, it says those who are ignorant will speak ill of the 'Lotus Sutra'.

They will use force!

I am experiencing what Shakuson wrote 2000 years ago.

The scripture wasn't wrong!

Bastard!

Let's go! Let's go! Tie him up!

I'm glad my mother has already left.

Shiji-sama, surrender! - Damn you!

We have news.

Nichiren is said to have been taken into custody.

I see.

Tell them to interrogate him harshly. - Yes.

The investigation is over. Take Nichiren!

Wait a minute! Wait a minute!

You haven't even asked me a question.

You have silenced my tongue and that's it?

Wait a minute!

At this point, there's no need to hear anything from a crazy monk!

I'm sorry to hear that.

If Nichiren is not heard, the nation would be corrupted!

Stop!

- Wait! - Hold it!

Wait! Call the lord!

I have to see him!

Why do you predict the future and cause confusion?

How can you be disrespectful to the lord?

There is no person with sense in the government...

How did it go?

I've sentenced him to death.

I'd like to grind him to dust if I could.

Well done.

Did you give him a chance to speak?

Yes, I did in front of the Nenbutsu monks among others.

All his accounts were presumptuous harmful opinions about the nation.

Tokimune.

That's enough!

Carry out the execution quickly!

No, do not.

Yoritsuna, we have to obey the law.

No Buddhist priests have ever been sentenced to death.

Exile to Sado Island. Understood? - Sir!

Come closer!

Exile would be the official sentence.

At 'Hour of the Dragon'. Got it?

We will execute him at 'Tatsu' (Hour of the Dragon).

Don't cry!

At least, I would like to see him one more time!

Don't you remember our lessons?

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo..! Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo..!

Stop it! Stop it! Stop it!

Stop it..!

Hey!

O-Shonin-sama will be executed at 'Tatsu' (Hour of the Dragon).

Go say good-bye to Shonin.

Is it almost time for the execution?

But you must come back to the cell.

Go now!

Thank you very much! I will never forget it!

HACHIMAN TEMPLE

Don't get off. No! Get back on the horse!

'Hachiman Daibosatsu' (Bodhisattva)...!

If you are the God of Japan's security,

I would like to say a word as Japan's first Hokekyo follower.

I've done nothing wrong!

No one beside me can save the country.

However, I will be beheaded by the government at the 'Tatsu' hour!

Saving my life will result in saving the country.

If I may ask you a favor, please perform a miracle!

Resolve an unprecedented problem and give peace to the country!

'Tatsu' (Hour of the Dragon)

Master Monk!

Master Monk...!

At least, I'd like to say good-bye!

Master Monk!

Nichiro! Don't you remember our Izu promise?

I do!

Nichiren-dono! Although I can't disobey my superior,

it's hard for me to kill a monk who tries to really help the country.

If you stop cursing all the other Buddhist sects,

I will risk my life to save yours.

How's that?

Answer me?

I refuse.

Lord!

I'm Hiki Daigaku's son. My name is Kojiro.

What's the matter?

Do you know that Priest Nichiren will be executed tonight?

What? Will he be executed?

I can't believe it. I commanded exile!

No execution! Go now! - Yes!

It's time!

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo..! Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo..!

Damn it...!

Don't execute him! Don't execute him!

Regent Tokimune gave the command!

Don't execute him! He's to be exiled to Sado Island!

Nichiren should be in Sado any minute now.

I feel relieved.

To this day, no exiles have come back alive.

At any rate, it's ridiculous.

Tokimune has released Nissho and all the others!

Saburo! Come closer!

He's still scared from the incident at 'Hour of the Dragon'.

Lord!

I would like to resign my post.

What? What's the reason?

State the reason!

I repent all the sins I have committed.

Stupid!

Echi-dono! Echi-dono! - Stop it!

Dancers! Dance!

Why don't you dance?

What? Wicked Priest Nichiren is to arrive?

Hey! Listen!

It says a monk whose name is Nichiren will be here soon.

He is said to be the most wicked priest in Kamakura!

It says, "Kill him sometime in the future".

You don't have to kill him.

He's exiled to Tsukahara on Sado Island.

No one has come back alive from there.

While Shonin-sama's away,

we have to fill in his position as his fellow Hokekyo disciples,

no matter what.

The storm is coming.

Watch out! The boat may sink.

Hey! Lower the sail! Lower the sail!

It's because we're sailing with a monk with an evil reputation in Kamakura.

It's just terrible.

Namu-Amida-Buddha. Namu-Amida-Buddha.

Watch out! Watch out!

NAM-MYOHO-RENGE-KYO

Oh, my! NAM-MYOHO-RENGE-KYO

Oh, my!

Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo... Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo...

Oh! The wind is dropping! The wind is dropping!

Shonin-sama has helped us. Shonin-sama has helped us!

- Thank you very much! - Thank you very much!

Shijo Hyobei was an innocent victim? - Yes.

Why didn't you tell me the truth?

Without knowing the truth, I can't fulfill my duty as Regent

You failed me! - I'm sorry...

Your lordship!

When Yoritsuna-dono was alive,

we couldn't tell you anything directly except once when I appealed to you.

Stop it! Kojiro!

Sorry.

Due to my own error,

I killed a very good retainer of yours.

I apologize!

I'm sorry!

Stop it!

Your life is in my hand.

Stay in the government and make sure nothing is wrong!

Yes, sir.

Release Kingo and his sister right away,

and give them back their property.

Shijo's children!

You will be released! - What?

Did he realize we are innocent?

Of course, he did.

About your father, too.

Brother!

By the way, Shonin-sama's

suffering in Sado must be unimaginable.

Who is it?

I'm Echi Saburo!

Echi?

What are you doing in here?

I had a terrible sense of guilt about all the sins I've committed.

I came to apologize.

Please forgive me! Please forgive me...!

Please...

Sorry! - Stop it..!

Don't die uselessly.

Will you forgive me? Will you?

It's not a matter of forgiveness.

You and I must be tied to each other by the providence of Buddha.

Thank you.

My eyes are finally open in a very true sense.

Whose skulls are they?

Some are sinners'.

Others are those of innocent people.

People's fates must be embedded in the skulls.

I brought them here as I found them.

I need to pray for their souls.

It's got to be the providence of Buddha also.

I'm so glad you are alive and well.

I will protect you, no matter what!

It's terribly cold. There's absolutely no heat.

When I got here, I had nothing to eat for seven days.

A man came to kill me.

However, he was converted to Hokekyo, and has been taking care of me.

I have to humble myself.

In Year 11 of the Bunei era (1274), as Nichiren warned, foreign invasion

finally became a reality.

One hundred thousand Mongol warships made an approach to Japan!

TSUSHIMA

All the others were killed.

Good work.

Try to have the enemy stay on the island as long as possible

so that people in Kyushu have time to prepare.

- Sir! -Sir! -Sir!

Please carry out revenge!

Shonin-sama..! What's troubling you?

I'm very concerned about the nation's future.

I hope nothing's wrong.

TO KAMAKURA

TO KAMAKURA

Victoriously, 100,000 Mongol warships came to the Hakata coast one after another.

You wouldn't believe how cruel Mongol warriors are!

They cut off people's noses, ears, and arms!

All our defense fighters were believed dead!

Mongol warriors seem to be much stronger than we thought.

Whether we give in to the Mongols or not depends on you!

Refrain from being selfish, and stand firm to protect Japan!

Right!-Right!-Right! - Right!-Right!-Right!

Go to the battlefield in Hakata, and slaughter the enemy!

Let's go! Let's go!

Let's leave for Hakata! - Let's go!

Release Nichiren!

Yes!

Thank you.

Will Shonin be released?

That's correct!

Hey, everybody!

Shonin-sama will be released!

He will be released!

O-Shonin-sama...! Nichiro-dono came to pick you up.

What?

Nichiro's here? - Yes!

Master Monk..!

Nichiro. Thank you for coming.

Yes!

You're set free! You are free!

Master Monk!

Shonin-sama..!

Congratulations!

NICHIREN GOES TO KAMAKURA

Due to my lack of awareness, I didn't foresee today's crisis.

Unfortunately, what you've predicted has come true.

I'm Deputy Shogun.

What can I do to meet the people's expectations?

Convert to Hokekyo.

It says 1000 'Cho' (2,000 acres) of land will be given to me as a gift.

However, I don't want to be blinded by materialistic desires to bow before

authority.

I just preach true Buddhism,

and pray for peace in the country.

Are you rejecting my gift?!

Wait!

I completely understood what you were trying to say!

I would like you to help us with this unprecedented crisis!

You are an authority on Buddhism, and I am on Japan!

And I need to protect the country now!

I don't mind dying if you could give me a favorable answer!

Please answer!

That truly is the spirit of Hokekyo, which saves the world

and brings peace in the nation.

Buddha's true intention is to aid the government,

protect the country, and save the people.

Twenty years ago, I swore to become the pillar of Japan.

Thank you.

"The tide at Chiku Sea, which extends to heaven, is black."

"People come from across the sea."

"Who are they?"

"They come from Mongolia."

"They come from Mongolia." HAKATA

"They come from Mongolia."

"They come from the north."

"From east to west, they gradually invade with success."

I'm glad you made it.

Yes, thank you. The enemy hasn't arrived yet.

But they are close. We may start fighting tomorrow.

Hello, Hiki. It's good to see you.

Time to fight!

I'm 92 years old. I'm still able.

My son is 70 years young. He's in his prime.

My grandson is not even 50 yet. He's just a kid.

My great grandson is 25 years old.

He is strong just like myself.

Our family has enough men to fight 50 or even 60 Mongols!

Mongols have arrived at the Shiga Coast!

What? They have?

Go fight! - Yes! -Yes! -Yes! -Yes!

PRAYER FOR THE ENEMY TO SURRENDER

Hey!

A fire broke out in Hakata!

Hakozaki is on fire, too!

It looks like we're in for a tough fight.

I don't know you, but hurry up and get away

before the Mongols come!

Monks! It's dangerous! Come! - Quickly!

Unfortunately, it's a hard battle.

I've never seen those flying objects.

The flying objects caused Hakata and Hakozaki to be burnt.

At this rate, we will be another Tsushima.

Let's go for a night raid.

Even to get one ship, let's do it!

"Mongols are coming."

"Even if the Mongols come,"

"I'm not afraid."

"I am afraid."

"Orders from the Kanto region."

"Over the mountain, go forward."

"Don't hesitate to kill the enemy."

"Attack the masts..."

"get on the enemy's ships!"

Ships are on fire!

Although our men attacked them, only two ships were destroyed.

Probably the rest of several hundred ships will come attack us tomorrow.

Form a human fence to die. We have no choice.

DAY 2

During the two-day battle,

we have somewhat prevented the enemy from landing.

But we've already lost almost one third of our men.

I think there's at least 100,000 men on the ships.

What can we do now?

I'm sorry.

If we had listened to Nichiren in the first place,

we could have handled the matter differently!

We just have to do our best to buy time!

According to Kamakura, reinforcements are to arrive!

It's a matter of days.

It won't be long before hordes of the enemy come ashore!

DAY 3

The enemy will not come ashore today,

but it is very likely they will tomorrow morning.

Hide all women and children in the mountain!

Iki Tsushima was disastrous.

We'll plan for another night raid tonight.

We have no choice. Let's just believe in providence!

You've got it! I'll come with you. - Yes!

Everybody! It's time we fight with our lives!

- Right!-Right!-Right!-Right!-Right! - Right!-Right!-Right!-Right!-Right!

Kojiro!

What? What's the matter with you?

Shonin-sama...!

Master Priest Nichiren came to visit! - What?

Shonin-sama...?

I saw him.

It had to be Shonin-sama.

He was with Nissho and Nichiro.

He was praying single-mindedly!

I don't want Japan to be another Tsushima.

I will protect the country even if I die!

Women and children! Go hide in the mountain!

No one should be in the village tomorrow morning!

Women and children must go to the mountain!

Those who are injured badly must go too!

Shinobu.

We will kill... at least one Mongol...

and join... you in heaven...!

We may have a storm.

Hey! The sky looks frightful.

I'm sure we'll have a big storm tonight!

Everybody...! - Hey! Look! The ships are sinking!

The Mongol invaders have all died!

Last night's typhoon killed 100,000 Mongol invaders!

Master! We thank you very much!

THE END