Original subtitles

This movie participated in the 1968 Arts Festival

A DAIEI PRESENTATION

Sasabayashi Family

We've been living in Asahikawa for three months now.

Ichiro, how's your new school?

I like it, quite a lot.

As you should.

Hokuei JHS is a prestigious private school with good facilities, after all.

Daddy is also the one with the largest endowment from the board of directors.

Of course his son would be in a good mood.

But, dad, why do you have to move all the time?

Sapporo to Hakodate, Hakodate to Muroran,

Muroran to Otaru, and Otaru to Asahikawa.

We never stay in the same place for more than three years.

Just like the gypsies.

It's because your father is responsible

for various business all around Hokkaido.

So, we live in the most convenient city for the business that needs him the most.

That's fine for the parents, but the kids are the worst off.

We're always changing schools,

so I always end up breaking up halfway into my relationships.

You hate it, too, right, sister Namie?

I'm fine with it.

Of course you are.

After all, you are a carefree 28-year-old who does nothing all year round.

Do you envy me?

This is Sasabayashi's household.

Wait a moment, will you?

Ichiro, you have a call. From a Yuri Tsushima.

She has a beautiful voice. Is she your girlfriend?

No, we're just classmates.

It's me.

The park in front of my house?

Okay, I'll be right there.

Why did you call me here?

Actually, I'm quitting school at the end of this semester.

Why?

My father's a plasterer.

He doesn't have any work during the winter, so he's always taking bets.

He lost his gambling money this winter.

To pay off his debt, he even used money from his workplace.

And that was millions of Kanko Sasabayashi's money.

From my father's company?

If he gets in trouble with your father, he will never be able to work in Asahikawa.

That's why we are leaving this town.

I get it. I'll ask my father to do something about it.

Wait! I don't want you to misunderstand me.

I just wanted to talk to you about it.

It will be fine. My dad is a reasonable man.

Besides, today is Sunday, so he'll be at home all day.

Go home and wait for me. I'll give you a call later.

Sasabayashi!

Dad!

Dad, are you there?

Dad!

Sister Namie! Namie!

THE HOUSE OF WOODEN BLOCKS

Planning: Takahito Miwa Original Novel: Ayako Miura Screenplay: Ichiro Ikeda

Cinematography: Setsuo Kobayashi Sound: Takeo Suda Lighting: Choji Watanabe Art Direction: Tomoo Shimogawara

Music: Tadashi Yamauchi Editing: Tatsuji Nakashizu Ass. Director: Shu Sakiyama

CAST

Ayako Wakao Ken Ogata

Kayo Matsuo Eiko Azusa

Yoshihiro Uchida Hiroshi Shimada Michiko Araki Asao Uchida

Directed by: Yasuzo Masumura

Ichiro's not eating breakfast these days. What's wrong with him?

It's not just breakfast, he doesn't even show up for dinner, too.

I wonder what's going on with that girlfriend of his, Yuri Tsushima?

Namie, Ichiro is not that stupid.

He's my child, after all.

It's not like my son to fret over a girl.

I'm the one who inherited your audacity.

But that's okay.

I guess he's finally getting frustrated with his environment.

That's what we call progress, and something to be proud of.

Sorry for the wait, this is the Hokuei JHS line. Thank you for riding with us.

All right!

Oh my, hello. You're always so early.

Bread and milk.

What kind of bread will you have this morning?

Anything will do.

Cream bread is tasty!

Don't just say whatever you like, Kazuo.

That will do.

Thank you as always.

My change.

But you don't seem to like bread.

If you want, I can make you a rice ball next time?

I don't want it!

Good morning, Ms. Hisayo!

- Oh, hi. - Three Shinsei cigarette packs.

Three packs a day is too much, how about we make it just two?

No, just make it three.

- Here you have. - Oh, it's you, Sasabayashi.

What's going on? You're so early today.

Sasabayashi!

He's acting strange...

His name's Sasabayashi?

He's the son of Goichi Sasabayashi, who's the president of a number

of Hokkaido tourist agencies, hotels, buses and countless other companies.

He moved into my class this April from Otaru.

He's got good grades for the son of a rich man.

What was he doing here?

Ms. Hisayo!

What was Sasabayashi doing here?

He just bought milk and bread. That's all.

What do you want? Get lost!

I can't do that.

What?

This is where I always catch loaches.

You're an eyesore! Get out of here!

What happened?

He fell in the river.

I pulled him out and drained him.

Kazuo, are you all right?

I'm fine!

Thank you so much.

I don't know how to express my gratitude...

It's my fault for screaming at him. I'm very sorry!

See you!

See you!

Sasabayashi...

You've been turning your head away and not talking to me at all lately.

My dad said he couldn't help.

Don't worry about that. When I told my mother about it, she scolded me.

She said it's not a kid's business.

It's strange, right? My body is that of an adult, but yet she said I am still a child.

What a nasty look! That's so unlike you.

Sasabayashi!

Were you shy about paying for it?

I used to want to read those things, too, when I was a student.

I'm more concerned about the guys that aren't taking an interest in this.

I'm glad it was me who found it. I'll take this back to the bookshop.

How about we have a cup of tea around here?

Spare me the lecture.

Leo!

Good boy, good boy...

Oh, that hurts!

Leo!

Leo... Oh, Leo...

Oh wow, it's so rare to find you home.

Knock first before entering!

You've been acting so weird lately. Why aren't you eating with us?

I can't eat here. The food is terrible.

The ramen or the oyakodon outside are way better.

You don't look well and you've lost weight. You're going to die soon.

I don't care if I die. It'd be better than living here.

What are you talking about? This is a perfect, luxurious house.

You'll be punished if you complain.

Shut up! Get out!

I can't do that. We are siblings after all, right?

Be honest with me! Something's wrong, isn't it?

Come on, Ichiro!

I will tell you, then. What in the world is Namie?

Namie is our sister...

She's not my sister!

If she was, she wouldn't be cuddling with dad like they're married.

That's not what parents do with their kids!

It could be incest.

I'm serious!

What are they if not parent and child? What are they?

Who knows? I wonder.

A mistress! I'm sure she's his mistress!

Sister Namie is dad's mistress!

Don't you think so, Midori?

That seems to be a very good deduction.

Dad's a terrible man. He's a beast.

This is a beast's house!

Even mom is full of crap.

She's just his mistress, and she makes us call her sister.

So, what should we do?

You're aware of it, too, sister, and yet you keep your mouth shut.

That's right.

You don't care about this?

I do care.

Tell me what you think!

Adults are adults and children are children.

I made up my own world, and shut myself inside it.

If they can't protect themselves from the dirty adults,

the children in this house can't live on.

Don't try to fool me! You actually approve their relationship.

If you're really mad at them,

why don't you kick that woman out to keep this house clean?

Do you think daddy will listen to a child's opinion?

He would just scoff at you.

Ichiro, forget about the adults.

Don't be a fool and ruin your own life because of your parents' sins.

You shut up, sister. You're on their side.

You're filthy. I hate you!

You're the one who's twisted and filthy.

Oh, I'm filthy all right. That's because I'm my father's son.

You spoiled child! Are you blaming your parents for your filthiness now?

Ichiro, if you're going to be filthy, why not be even filthier than your parents?

All right. I'll show them.

I'll take Namie off our dad's hands.

Cut it out. You can't do anything.

She's a beast-like woman. And I'm the son of a beast.

We're perfect for each other.

Who's there?

What were you doing, the two of you?

We were doing a performance rating on the people in this house.

And what's my rating?

80 points out of 100.

How generous of you.

And what would you give me, Ichiro?

Obviously, 100 points. You are praiseworthy, after all.

Thanks.

I hoped for a 100 score even if it's a lie.

Since I had never gotten one when I was a child.

Where are you going?

To study. I'm still a senior in high school, after all.

Next year, I'm going to college.

Don't make me laugh.

You just play the guitar all the time.

Your teacher... specializes in math, right?

Maybe I should ask him to tutor me.

That would be a waste of time. Because women are stupid.

Do you intend to despise women now?

Your future wife will be a woman, you know?

I hate women. Except for you, sister Namie.

Ichiro, you really like me?

Yeah.

That makes me happy.

I'm sorry to bother you.

Madam.

Welcome!

How's the boy's condition?

He's in bed with a little fever, but I think he'll be fine.

I want to see him.

Go ahead, Kazuo will be glad.

I'm sorry I got angry at you last time.

If your family allows it, could you stay for dinner? I would like to treat you.

I don't need my family's permission.

What would you like?

Anything is okay.

Leave it to me, then.

What should I cook, I wonder?

Madam, only you and the little boy live here?

That's right.

I wish I had a father.

You're better off without one.

Having a mother is more than enough.

He's a very lonely boy.

I'm sure he'd be happy if you visited him from time to time.

I'll come! I prefer this place over my home.

Why is that? You have a fine house, don't you?

It looks fine on the outside, but it's terrible on the inside.

Everyone's a beast... It's almost like hell.

Compared to that, here is heaven.

You are kind, madam, and your son is adorable. It's the exact opposite.

Hi!

It's teacher Sugiura. I'll be with you in a moment.

He's a frequent visitor, isn't he?

Since he lives nearby, he always visits on his way to and from school.

For what?

He adores Kazuo, so he comes to see him.

Teacher, you haven't had dinner yet? Do you want to eat here?

I'd appreciate it, but you are a single mother. I worry about people's opinions.

I think tonight will be fine. We have another guest.

Who?

Sasabayashi from your class.

Where is he?

He left from the back door.

The back door?

I wonder what happened?

It's because I'm here. He's probably embarrassed.

My... Anyway, I'll prepare the dinner.

Good morning! Good morning!

What's with this ruckus?

Teacher, there is something inside your locker.

Panties, bra and a slip.

These sure are flashy...

A female teacher probably got the wrong locker?

All right, I'll hang it in the staff room.

Sasabayashi, middle school sure is a time when you feel like playing pranks.

Last year, I lost a lot of money

when they delivered ten portions of sushi I didn't order.

Compared to that, this is still nothing.

Don't do that, you shouldn't throw stones.

I couldn't care less!

Ichiro, it's a lie that you like me.

- In reality, you hate me, right? - I like you!

In the past, you used to hug me, and bathe with me.

You always used to seek my attention.

But, recently, you just stare at me with those scary eyes.

I feel lonely!

That's just jealousy.

That's why I'm going to become a bride.

To where?

Taiwan.

I heard that the Taiwanese

are very warm-hearted and respectful towards the Japanese.

Taiwan is very far!

It's a four-hour flight from Haneda.

If it wasn't that close, I wouldn't go.

You really don't want to go, right?

That's right. But I have no other choice.

Stop that. Don't go to Taiwan as a bride. Stay with us instead!

Then, will we be friends like in the old times?

Yeah...

Really?

Sasabayashi!

Since today is Sunday, I've come for a home visit.

There's no one at home now. Go back!

He's so troublesome.

You must be Ichiro's...

I'm his older sister, Namie.

Please, come inside. My mother will see you.

Namie, leave your seat.

I have an important talk with the teacher.

Please, have a cold beer.

I'm fine, thank you.

Shall I get you a whiskey, then?

- Or would you prefer a brandy? - Actually, about Ichiro's grades...

They've been good ever since he transferred, but suddenly they went downhill.

His behavior is strange lately, and he doesn't eat at home apparently.

Is there a reason for that?

No, teacher, there's no reason. It must be what they call a "rebellious phase".

He's being very difficult and doesn't listen us, his parents, at all.

But just like measles,

he'll get over it eventually, so it's best to leave him alone for the time being.

Teacher, I'm Ichiro's older sister, Midori.

Nice to meet you.

I'm Sugiura.

Teacher, it's useless to ask my mom anything.

She's too busy going to tea ceremonies, buying rings and kimonos.

She doesn't think about her kids, at all.

Young girls these days are really troublesome.

They sure enjoy teasing their mothers.

My mom can put up with anything as long as she has money.

She thinks that, if she keeps her kids in the lap of luxury, they won't complain.

It's funny because she's holding a lecture on home education at the women's club.

Midori!

Besides, my mom's a very vain woman,

and she'd never let our flaws out of the house.

But I'm the complete opposite, I'm a bit of an exhibitionist.

Cut it out already.

I think I like you, teacher.

Will you teach me math?

No way! The teacher's too busy. He doesn't have time for that!

I'm a good student, smart and charming enough.

I stay away from tutoring pretty girls.

Oh my, you're such a coward.

Mom, why did that guy come over?

Don't call your teacher "that guy"!

What did you two talk about?

I hear that you're buying milk and bread for breakfast.

Stop with that kind of disgraceful behavior.

Oh, so that's what you talked about?

From now on, you'll eat at home!

All right. Mom, is it true that Namie is going to get married in Taiwan?

That's a bunch of nonsense. Who would take her?

Why do you say that? She's beautiful and kind, anyone would want her.

She's not kind. Her personality is completely different from her looks.

She's kinder than you!

Dear, forgive me. I had a miscarriage.

We already have two kids. You don't have to apologize.

Your health is more important now. You'll stay here for the time being.

By the way, this girl here...

She used to work in a bar in Noboribetsu, but she's only 15.

It's against the law, so I scolded the owner and took her in.

Why don't you let her help you with the housework?

That'd be good.

What kind of parents would let such a girl work at a bar?

She's apparently an orphan. Her drunkard uncle sold her off.

Poor girl...

How could you sleep with the housemaid?

I'm going back to my parents' home and you can't stop me.

I really expected you to be a reasonable person,

but you're just an ordinary woman, after all.

If you want to divorce, fine by me.

I'll take the kids with me.

I won't leave them in the hands of a father who acts like an animal.

Yes, I am an animal!

And animals bite you to death when you try to take their children.

I won't let you take Midori and Ichiro, I'll kill you.

But that is...!

I'll do it for real!

- I'll really kill you. - Let me go...

Toki, you are a very proud woman.

Do you really want the world to laugh at you for losing your husband to the housemaid?

Wouldn't you rather have their respect as the wife of Goichi Sasabayashi?

We'll have Namie be our daughter. The kids are still young.

They won't be able to tell.

No way! I can't trick them like that.

In exchange, I'll indulge you in luxury.

You can buy all the jewelry and clothes you want.

Good evening!

Oh, it's you.

I asked at the lodge, but they said you'd be on duty tonight.

So, I rushed over here immediately.

What do you want?

I have something important to discuss with you.

What's it about?

What if... my dad had a mistress and that she actually lives under the same roof?

Should I drive that mistress out, or should I run away from home?

Or should I teach my stupid father a lesson,

and give myself to a man and become a mistress myself?

Or, even better, just kill myself?

Is this the important matter you wanted to talk about?

You're so insensitive, teacher! Didn't you meet my sister Namie?

That person is a mistress.

She's my father's mistress.

In other words, my family lives with a mistress.

Is that so?

So, that's why Ichiro is so disturbed.

I found out when I was in primary school.

But you know how carefree he is, right?

And after finally noticing it, he is now struggling.

What a bad age to find that out...

But keep this a secret.

Since I get a lot of hush money every month from my mom for this.

It's okay. I'm tight-lipped.

And thanks to having a good-for-nothing father,

I've come to learn about both sides of the male animal.

And middle school teachers are among the worst.

They're quick to touch a female student's bottom or breasts,

but you're an exception, teacher.

A beautiful girl like me is seducing you, and you don't even hold my hand.

That makes me like you even more.

Sasabayashi, it's almost summer holiday.

I don't care about that.

You know about the summer camp from Lake Akan to Lake Kussharo, right?

Three days, two nights.

I have no interest in travels.

But I'd really like you to come.

Why?

My mother said it's the last camp in middle school and I should attend.

After that, we are leaving Asahikawa forever.

That's why I want you to come with me, Sasabayashi.

I don't want to!

Regarding the summer camp, have you made up your mind?

I'm sure that if you were to supervise the cooking, the food would be delicious,

and the students would be delighted.

I wonder if I can bring Kazuo?

Of course you can.

Usually, the teacher's family takes care of that, but I'm single,

and the friend I was counting on to come got ill.

I'll go, then. I'm sure Kazuo will be happy.

It's been so long since we both took a trip together.

Well, thank goodness! This is going to be a fun camping trip.

Madam, do you like that teacher?

I like most people.

Are you going to marry him?

No way, I would feel sorry for the teacher since I have Kazuo.

Don't get along with him, then. I hate that guy.

But he's a customer that buys cigarettes every day, you know.

I have to be friendly. Here.

So, you're being friendly with me because I'm a customer?

It's different in your case.

You are the one who saved Kazuo's life.

I like you, madam!

What were you talking about with him?

We decided to go to the summer camp, as well.

I'd be very happy if you could play with Kazuo while we're there.

You're also going, right, Ichiro?

Yeah...

You're not going to sing?

Ms. Hisayo, actually, I've been wanting to ask you something for a while.

When did Kazuo's father pass away?

Five years ago, shortly after Kazuo was born.

You chose him, so he must have been a fine man.

You didn't remarry because you can't forget about your late husband,

so you must've really loved him.

It's quite the opposite. It was so painful that I never intend to marry again.

If that's the case, I'd like to become a candidate.

I might be a 30-year-old bachelor, but my conduct is mostly irreproachable.

I'm confident I could make you happy.

And I believe that I can become a good father to Kazuo.

Would you marry me?

I don't think I'm the kind of woman who can be your wife.

Why do you say that? I'd like to know your reasoning.

I'm sure we'll have a chance to talk about it one day.

I feel good. Say, Sasabayashi, why don't you lie down?

Like this?

Close your eyes along with me.

Why?

Come on, just do it.

We'll never see each other again.

So what?

So, let me tell you something. I really love you, Sasabayashi.

Kiss me... Do anything with me.

This 3rd year of middle school will never come back.

I want us to make some happy memories.

No way, I can't do it.

- Hey, you, unload my stuff. - Sure.

Damn it! Why are they here?

Sasabayashi!

Teacher, hello!

I took your photo. A love scene.

Oh, it's Midori. She is Ichiro's sister.

Ichiro's sister?

Such a pretty lady. Who is she?

The madam running the milk store in front of our school.

That's where Ichiro gets his bread. I bet he's madly in love with her.

No way. There's a big age gap between them.

When it comes to men and women, age doesn't matter.

You like her, too, don't you?

But I hate her. Since she's my rival.

Why did you come here?

I came here with my dad to see the camp.

The mistress I've told you about is also here.

Say, isn't he a terrible father? He brings his concubine even here.

That's an awesome car.

Teacher Sugiura, I'm Sasabayashi.

I know it's embarrassing, but please give this to your students.

Chocolate, gum and caned juice.

Thanks for the meal, uncle.

You're a smart kid, aren't you? Up we go!

How old are you?

5 years old!

Oh my, you sure are heavy!

What a shock. I've never seen dad hold a child before in my life.

Hey, hey, don't say such mean things.

Now, excuse me. I'm on my way to work.

Teacher, I'm leaving for Sapporo tomorrow,

then Tokyo, Osaka and possibly Kyushu, as well.

Goodbye!

You went all the way from Tokyo to Kyushu and these are your travel photos?

There's nothing but men's faces here.

I'm more interested in men than scenery. I've taken a photo of every face I've liked.

You never cease to shock me.

Why? I'm seriously thinking about marriage.

I don't want to be single forever like Namie.

I'll have a family by the time I'm 23.

I envy you.

A woman's happiness depends on the kind of person she lives with.

No matter how much money and power you have,

if he's a weirdo, you're screwed for life.

That's why I look at all kinds of men, to keep my eyes open.

Nevertheless, they all look like worthless men.

Looking to be a husband with their low salaries?

That sounds like too much work if you ask me.

What's with this picture?

Oh, you forgot? It's Ichiro's teacher.

Not him, I mean this woman.

This is the madam from Ichiro's favorite milk store.

She's one of the rare beauties around here.

Is that so? I get it now.

She's beautiful, for sure.

Daddy, don't think about starting anything weird, okay?

Since she's the mother of that kid you held. Too bad for you.

Daddy, what are you looking at?

That woman from the milk store.

I think she's someone who used to be my secretary in Otaru.

Oh, here she is!

I thought so. There's no doubt.

You're right, she looks just like her.

Then, that child might be mine.

You had an affair with this woman, too?

Just once.

I left her after that.

I don't believe you. I mean, she even had your baby.

I also find it strange, but it is the truth.

Do you still love her now?

Let's say I don't hate her.

More than me?

You fool, I've kept you for 13 years. There's no comparison.

Tomorrow, I'm going to Tokyo for a week, and tonight I'm going to treat you well.

Sex in a room next to my wife sure makes me excited.

Welcome.

Any chocolate is fine. Give me two dozen.

Thank you very much.

- Do you run this shop all by yourself? - I do.

Does your husband work somewhere else?

Is he a school teacher?

I don't have a husband.

You don't have a husband at home, but yet you have a kid. How strange.

He passed away.

A boy called Ichiro Sasabayashi comes here often, doesn't he?

Yes, he does.

For what purpose?

He gets along well with my kid. Kazuo is always happy when he comes.

You’re lying. You're the one who's happy.

Your kid is Goichi Sasabayashi's, isn't he?

No, he isn't.

Don't play dumb with me!

Excuse me, but what exactly is your relationship with Sasabayashi?

I'll tell you if you want to know.

I'm Goichi's woman.

I know what you're planning.

You want to make money by having Goichi recognize the kid, right?

You've got it all wrong.

I don't needy any money.

What's with that laugh? Don't be rude to a customer!

I know your real intentions.

You want to get back together with Goichi by winning Ichiro over, right?

Am I not right? Why don't you just confess?

I don't want to talk with you anymore. Please, go home.

You can't fool me.

Be sure to remember this.

As long as I'm here, you'll never get your way.

Mom, I caught five loaches.

Really? Good for you!

Hello, Ichiro.

Go home! This place is not for the likes of you!

Leave now!

Get out! And don't come back!

Why did you come here?

Why did you push me away today?

You know, because you are dad's mistress.

So, you knew?

Of course I do, don't take me for a fool.

Ichiro, do you despise me?

I can't even look at you!

You're lying. You really like me, don't you?

Get out! Get out or I'll push you away again.

I see...

If you want me to leave, I will.

I never had a home since I was born, anyway.

Like I care about that.

Ichiro, I'm an orphan.

I grew up being sold from bar to bar.

I was always beaten up and yelled at for breaking even a single plate.

They always told me to get out...

So what?

Daddy was the only one who treated me kindly.

I was so happy when I came here and I intended to become a good maid.

But, at some point, he started to...

I don't want to hear about it.

Say, Ichiro, to a child without parents, any kind of affection makes them happy.

So, I came to love daddy.

Does loving him makes me a bad woman?

Of course it does!

I wasn't a bad woman in the beginning, you know.

But I became one before I even knew it.

I started liking living in comfort.

And staying in this house, I slowly...

But I have to snap back.

Since everyone is suffering because of me.

I'm scared of the outside world.

I'll be bullied and beaten up again, and I'll have a bad time, of course I will.

But I guess that's my fate.

Isn't that right, Ichiro?

I like you. Give me a farewell kiss!

Kiss me! Then, I'll leave right away.

You don't want to do even that?

Do you despise me that much?

I see... Farewell.

All right, you can stay here.

It's my dad who's evil.

But I can't hate him. He saved my life, after all.

You're an idiot, sister! I don't care if he gets killed.

It's him who turned your life into a mess.

But if daddy hadn't picked me up,

my body would have been a plaything for a lot of men by now.

What are you saying? Dad is in the wrong!

It's not like that!

Of course it is!

You have such a good smell.

It smells like milk.

- And you smell like a lily flower. - Is that so?

What do you think of this dress?

- It looks quite good on you. - Is that so?

I'm so happy.

You are a bad person, sister.

How so?

Because you simultaneously... with both me and my dad...

You're so silly. You're the only one I like, Ichiro.

Otherwise, why would I cuddle with you

every night until morning for the past week?

But, tonight, when dad comes back home, l bet you'll...

What's so funny?

I can't believe you, Ichiro.

If you distrust me so much, why don't you just keep watch of the hallway overnight?

To see if I go to the room next to daddy's.

You'll go, of course you will.

I won't be going anywhere. I can promise you that.

If you betray me, I don't know what I'll do.

All right.

But you know, Ichiro, you're the most suspicious here.

How so?

You like the milk store lady, the one called Hisayo, don't you?

Yes...

Have you ever held her like this?

No way!

Which one do you like the most? Who's the most beautiful?

You're both beautiful!

Madam is very kind, though.

What about me?

You're sort of... scary.

You should stop seeing her.

Why?

Because you'll surely come to regret it one day.

- Give me this knife, please. - Sure.

What a rare sight. To see Ichiro at home. What's going on?

He's finally grown up after his rebellious phase.

The only thing that has grown up is his body. He started giving girls weird looks.

And he's even dared to grow a mustache.

Shut up!

Sister Namie, are you here?

Where'd she go?

Sister!

Oh, my, you're here.

Damn it, I didn't know you had this trick up your sleeve.

You mean, this? This, you see...

Your mom had it made.

To fool the public eye.

My mom?

Moving all year round is also to avoid the public eye.

If there's any signs of my cover being blown, we immediately move to another city.

It's all your mother's idea.

I don't care about any of that. Sister!

You've betrayed me and slept with dad, didn't you? You damn liar!

What other choice do I have? I also don't want to be his plaything anymore.

If I refuse, he'll kill me.

Don't try to fool me!

Daddy is a frightening person.

Even running away from this house would be futile.

He'll find you and get you half-killed.

Stop lying! You just want to stick as close to him as possible, right?

Why would I?

Why would I want this kind of life?

I can't get married, and I'm not allowed to have fun with boyfriends.

I'm always cooped up in this house. It's exactly like a prison.

You're so noisy!

Do you want to kill me?

Very well, go ahead and kill me!

If it makes you feel any better...

Someday, somebody's going to kill me, anyway.

Come on, kill me!

What's the matter with you? Can't you kill me?

If you're not doing anything, get out!

Damn it!

Ichiro, what are you doing?

This is the room of daddy's concubine.

Hurry up and leave!

And you should stop trying to seduce Ichiro, too.

Seducing him?

You're overreacting, I'm just taking a little something from Hisayo.

He's just a 15-year-old kid. Don't treat him like a toy.

But I turned him into a full-fledged adult. You should be thankful for that.

Shame on you. If you ever lay a hand on him again, I'll never forgive you.

You've got to be kidding me. It's him who you should stop.

If I would've come out of daddy's room, he would have killed me.

If you were killed, you brought that upon yourself.

- Since you messed this family up. - Sorry to say it, but it's not my fault.

You should be blaming daddy instead.

He's nothing but a beast.

But whoever plays with a beast is also a beast themselves.

So, Ichiro must also be a beast. Since he gladly slept with me.

I guess he's just like his daddy. It's no surprise, really.

- And you're the same, Midori. - Oh! How so?

Aren't you chasing after men all year round?

How come you don't know what you're doing?

- It's not like I'm a concubine. - That's old thinking.

What's wrong with being a concubine?

These days, there are plenty of young ladies

who fall in love with married men and destroy their families.

What are you talking about? You just fancy money.

You can't stop living in the lap of luxury.

Midori, you never know how you will end up either.

You might end up as concubine number four.

You don't have to worry. I'm nothing like you.

But what if you were forcibly raped like I was?

I'll kill myself.

You really are old-fashioned.

If I were you, I'd let dad be dad and Ichiro be Ichiro.

I'd get along with both of them.

That's ridiculous.

Ichiro.

I can't believe you're infatuated with such a woman. You are still a child.

- I'm not a child. - Yes, you are!

Your heart and body are all over the place.

Your heart loves Ms. Hisayo, but your body loves this woman.

A real adult loves only one proper woman with both heart and body.

Dad's woman is the worst. She's like a rotten tomato.

I'm telling you in case you don't know, but I'm not daddy's only woman.

There's another one.

Who?

Ms. Hisayo. Ichiro's favorite.

What did you say?!

That child whom you adore so much, the one called Kazuo...

That's daddy's child.

Congratulations! You now have an adorable younger brother.

That's a bunch of lies!

You can beat me up all you want. But facts are facts.

If you doubt me so much, try asking Hisayo.

Shut up!

Thank you for the kindness of teaching me all these lessons.

You are welcome.

I'll make sure to repay you this kindness.

I can't wait. I expect a lot.

Teacher, I'm sorry to bother you on duty, but can Kazuo stay at school tonight?

I think it'll be okay. But why?

Summer vacation will be over soon,

so I'm going to a wholesale store in Sapporo to stock up.

You seem to be awfully busy.

Madam!

What's going on with you, Ichiro?

Madam, is Kazuo my father's child?

No...

I knew it.

And you were the only one I trusted.

I thought you were the loveliest person in the entire world.

All women are deceitful!

I'm not deceitful...

Then, whose child is that?

He's my own child.

How can a woman have a child on her own? Madam...

I bet you laughed whenever you saw me playing with him.

I get it. I'll tell you the truth.

Please, listen to me, too, teacher.

For the first time... I'm going to talk about my past.

See? It's all lies.

Sasabayashi! Just listen quietly.

Five years ago...

I was living in Otaru and was working as Goichi Sasabayashi's secretary.

My father was a chief accountant for a certain company.

When one of his subordinates misappropriated 700.000 yen,

my father became neurotic while trying to fill that hole.

And my ill mother ended up in a critical state.

I was at a loss, and when I reached for Goichi Sasabayashi's help...

He told me he would give me a cheque if I went to his inn.

That evening, on top of being violently raped,

the cheque also became useless.

Darling! Darling!

Why did you have to die?

Darling!

When I returned home, I found out my father had committed suicide.

My mother died three days later from the shock.

Therefore, on that particular night,

a single instance was all it required for Kazuo to come into existence?

Yes, I didn't want to give birth, but the child was innocent. I couldn't kill him.

I gave birth while working as a maid at an inn in Obihiro.

Ms. Hisayo, you're a very serious and hard-working person just like your dad.

Once I gave birth, I found my own baby adorable and couldn't let him go.

To raise him up, I borrowed money from the innkeeper and opened up this store.

So, he's my brother, after all.

I'm sorry I kept this from you.

But I never meant to deceive you.

I just felt sorry for Kazuo, who grew up without a father,

so I wanted to have him, at least, feel the love of his real brother.

Madam, I'm not coming here anymore. I hate all my father's women.

You're wrong.

Ms. Hisayo is not Goichi's woman.

If she were his woman, he would have recognized Kazuo,

and gave him all the child support and property that he needed.

How is that any different? It's the exact same thing.

Ms. Hisayo lived with Kazuo all by herself, you know?

Can't you understand her pain and suffering?

Why would I understand that? You're a beast, too, madam!

I bet you were happy to be in my father's arms. You were laughing out loud, right?

Sasabayashi!

What's the matter with you? Why don't you shut up?

You fool!

Sasabayashi, be more honest with yourself.

You shouldn't become distorted just because of your bad father.

You should study harder if this makes you angry.

And become an honorable human being to make your parent feel ashamed.

Then, he will apologize for his mistakes.

Shut up!

What's up?

You fiend! You didn't only toy with Namie, but also Ms. Hisayo. You're an animal!

Ichiro, you're an adult now, it's about time you learn this.

Women are nothing but playthings to pass time with.

Only fools fall in love or get unsettled with them. Remember that.

You're a beast, as expected. I'm going to kill you!

Can you stab your own father? Over a mere woman?

I knew you couldn't do it.

Yes, but in exchange, I'll do something even worse.

I'll do something so bad, it'll be in the papers, causing you profound humiliation.

Hokuei Junior High School

He has such a cute face. It's hard to believe he's that guy's kid.

Who's there?

Kazuo!

Kazuo!

Fire at Hokuei JHS. Child Staying in the Night Duty Room got Burnt

Accidental Fire Caused by Teacher on Duty?

That teacher Sugiura is an idiot.

I can't believe he left the stove on and went outside. He should quit.

I donated a lot of money to a school that got burned down.

He sure is slacking. I can't believe he let a kid stay in the night duty room.

Do you think he has a thing going on with Hisayo?

You never know what teachers nowadays are up to behind our backs.

Daddy, you're not going to recognize that Kazuo as your child, right?

Of course not. I can't afford the child support and inheritance.

Besides, you never know what she did afterwards.

He might not even be my kid.

Are you sure?

Don't worry. It's my policy not to have children even if I were to have women.

Is that why you won't let me have one either?

It's different in your case.

You'd lose your youth once you become a parent, and your flavor would also drop.

Daddy.

No matter what kind of grandmother I become, I won't leave your side, got it?

I got it!

Ichiro.

What?

Arson is a serious crime, punishable by death.

That fire at the school last night. Was it your doing?

It wasn't me!

That's fine, then.

However, if it was you who did it, keep your mouth shut.

They don't have a shred of evidence. If this goes to court, we won't lose.

I'll spend every dime I have on lawyers to get you acquitted.

I told you it wasn't me!

I've been caught in the net of the law many times. But I never confessed.

That's why I'm now a proud owner of Hokkaido's tourism business.

You're my son. Don't make a mistake that will get you caught by the police.

If you become an ex-convict, your life is over.

I get it.

And also, Namie is my precious guest.

If you try anything funny with her, I won't let you get away with it.

Daddy, look at me closely.

Something's changed, hasn't it?

What has changed?

It looks like I'm going to have a baby.

Are you sure about that, Midori?

I showed it to the doctor and he said I'm seven months pregnant.

Who's the father?

I have no clue.

I met some guy when I went skiing this winter.

He suddenly sneaked into my room at night,

and he forced his way into my panties.

I get it. Anyway, you're getting an abortion.

I don't want to.

You fool! You're having a kid without even being married?

Then, how about Ms. Hisayo?

She did have your baby before getting married, after all.

I'm going to follow her footsteps.

That's a completely different matter!

So, you don't care what happens to strangers,

but your own daughter is important?

Don't argue with me! Go see a doctor with your mom.

I don't want to. Seven months is too late, anyway.

I have a baby twitching in my belly! It's so cute!

You idiot! Two months and seven months are the same. We can have a C-section.

At seven months, it's already a complete human being.

And telling me to kill it... Is that what a parent should be saying?

No wonder the kids of such a parent are lousy.

It would've been strange if they grew up to be decent beings.

Be quiet! Get an abortion, understand?

Ichiro, I heard what you told dad outside the door.

Did you... set Mr. Sugiura's night duty room on fire

to put the blame on him?

No!

He's resigning to answer for your crimes.

It's not fair of you to stand there and watch.

Your intention was to make our dad lose face, wasn't it?

Why don't you go to the police and come clean?

That'll rattle dad up, and straighten him up a little.

You're so noisy! Leave me alone!

I'm leaving this house. And I don't intend to return as long as Namie is here.

Of course I lied about being pregnant. I was just trying to scare dad.

You should follow my example and muster up your courage.

Ichiro, daddy is your enemy. You become a proper adult once you beat him.

Don't lose to him.

Goodbye!

Ms. Hisayo, I am so sorry.

Kazuo got burned because of my carelessness.

I don't believe you started that fire, teacher.

- I'm sure you're covering someone. - No.

I'm very careless sometimes.

I forgot to turn off the stove.

Do you really have to quit your job?

I've already submitted my resignation.

Actually, I lost my confidence.

So far, I've tried protecting Ichiro. Even hitting him has no effect.

I failed my job as a teacher. I plan to go to Tokyo for a while to self-reflect.

If I happen to regain my confidence, I'll be a teacher again.

And I'll ask you to marry me once more.

I like you even more now that you've told me about your past.

I'll be waiting for you.

I always dreaded marriage until now... because I was afraid of men.

I thought they'd all be like Goichi Sasabayashi.

That's terrible. Men come in all shapes and sizes.

Men like you exist in this world, teacher. I've only recently come to realize that.

And I won't be stubborn anymore about living as a single woman.

It caused a lot of trouble for those around me.

Sasabayashi!

Do you have something to say?

- I don't. - Well, I have!

This hat belongs to you, am I right?

I picked it up from the fire scene near the night duty room.

Take it.

That's not mine.

I'm giving it back, anyway.

Take it back.

You think I started the fire, don't you?

So, why don't you just say so?

You can go and tell the police. If you're mad for getting fired, hit me!

I don't want to. You're not a kid anymore. You're an adult.

You can take care of yourself now.

What do you want? You're only good at covering for other people's sins.

You've come all this way. Go see Kazuo.

You don't want to? The boy's waiting for you, so make him happy.

Come with me.

Kazuo, your brother is here.

Brother!

You don't have to worry, Ichiro. Fortunately, Kazuo's burns are minor.

After the treatment, he will be completely healed.

Well, I'll be on my way. I have a train to catch.

I'll take you to the front door.

Ichiro, do you mind staying by Kazuo's side for a while?

Yeah...

Thank you.

My fingers got stuck together from the burns. Don't they look weird?

Why won't you look at them?

Forgive me, it's all my fault.

Your real brother is me... Kazuo!

I'm sorry!

I can't believe Midori ran away from home.

What a bunch of pathetic children.

This is all because of your poor home-schooling.

You just let them play all year round.

Have you ever taken care of them seriously?

Do you think they'll live in this house forever?

I've done my best, in my own painful way.

Anyway, a mother who can't even bring up her own children is a failure.

You're the worst!

Hello? Is this the police?

I was the one who set fire to Hokuei Junior High School.

My name is Ichiro Sasabayashi.

That's right, I'm the son of Goichi. Arrest me immediately!

Ichiro...

You little...!

Dad, I'm going to tell the police everything.

Why I set the fire, and everything else going on in this house.

You fool!

I guess it was my fault all along.

This wouldn't have happened if I had left you back then.

This house is already falling apart.

It falls apart, brick by brick.

What have I been doing all this time?

You fool! Stop complaining.

Goodbye.

THE END