Original subtitles

IN THE PREVIOUS CHAPTER:

Early 1938. Continental China.

Nanking's National Revolutionary Army under Chiang Kai-shek's command

comprised of 400 thousand soldiers headed north towards Beijing

with the purpose of defeating Zhang Zuolin's military clique.

Meanwhile in Manchuria

Japanese Kwantung Army set camp charged with protecting the gains

made in the Second Sino-Japanese and Russo-Japanese War.

The Kwantung Army, following Tanaka's cabinet's line

had been waiting for the opportunity to invade Manchuria and Mongolia

and establish there the rule of the Japanese government.

Newly-established zaibatsu. The Godai family's salon.

In connection with the worsening situation in China, Mr Godai Yusuke in the presence of his elder son Eisuke

and his brother Kyosuke was explaining further strategy of the zaibatsu.

Kyosuke, who had recently returned from Manchuria

secretly established ties with the Kwantung Army.

Shunsuke, second son of the Godai family, met Shimegi Kohei.

Takuro, Kohei's elder brother, worked at the Godai family's enterprise

but after the raids of March 15

he was sent to prison.

Shunsuke joins forces with Kohei and poor artist Haiyama

more and more sympathizing with the workers' predicament

and current social problems.

The only person in the Godai family who understands Shunsuke is his sister Yukiko.

Yukiko falls in love with young impulsive officer, lieutenant Tsuge.

In Manchuria, the Kwantung Army carries out the assassination of Zhang Zuolin

with the aim of starting an invasion.

The anti-Japanese movement is growing in Manchuria.

Korean Xu Zailin whose family was killed by the Japanese military

for involvement in the Sam-il movement

and Cho Zuiho, bourgeois daughter of member of CPC's committee in Manchuria,

who is outraged by the acts of the Japanese invaders,

join the anti-Japanese movement.

Some of the Japanese are critical too.

Among them are Professor Hattori and Godai employee Takahata.

Following the orders of Colonel Seishiro and Lieutenant-colonel Ishiwara, September 18, 1931

the Kwantung Army blows up a train between Mukden and Lutaigo.

After this, an attack on Zhang Xueliang's forces begins.

This serves as the starting point of the Manchuria incident.

During the battle

Takuro, Kohei's elder brother, escapes from prison and joins the fight

only to die on the battlefield.

In 1932 the war breaks out in Shanghai.

Captain Tsuge Shintaro emerges on the Shanghai front.

More and more people get entangled

in the fire of war.

March 1, 1932

The state of Manchukuo is proclaimed.

The emperor of the Qing dynasty is overthrown.

Puyi heads the new Manchukuo government.

May 15 A coup is attempted in Japan

during which Prime Minister Inukai is shot by Navy officers.

November 12

Judge Ozaki from Tokyo District Court is arrested on political grounds.

This triggers a wave of resignations among judges.

January 30, 1933

Hitler's cabinet is formed in Germany.

February 24 A session of the League of Nations takes place.

Manchukuo is voted invalid.

Japan withdraws from the League of Nations.

May 10 Incident in Tokyo University.

Professor Takigawa is removed from his position on the basis of his leftist views.

As a sign of protest, all the professors of the law faculty resign.

July 11

The Shimpeitai attempts a coup.

December 25

Repressions sweep the Japanese Communist Party.

Five hundred people are arrested, among them Kenji Miyamoto.

March 1, 1934

Puyi, head of Manchukuo government, is proclaimed emperor.

November 20

Students of the Kwantung Army military academy attempt a coup.

February 28, 1935

Scholar Tatsukichi Minobe is criticized in parliament for his "emperor organ theory".

1935, MANCHURIA AROUND DANTOU

MEN AND WAR PART II

Fire!

Keep moving!

CHANG MIN BUK, ANTI-JAPANESE RAIDING PARTY

XU ZAILIN, ANTI-JAPANESE RAIDING PARTY

MARCH, TOKYO THE GODAI FAMILY RESIDENCE

Shunsuke, Mr Kohei! Tea is ready.

YORIKO, THE GODAI FAMILY'S SECOND DAUGHTER

SHUNSUKE, THE GODAI FAMILY'S SECOND SON

SHIMEGI KOHEI

Who's that?

Her name's Kuji. Kuji Atsuko.

But now her last name is Kano.

She's pretty.

But she looks like she's miserable.

I need to talk to you.

Why don't you go study? The Godai family is willing to finance that.

Do you have enough money for that?

Yes. So think about it.

You could go to school from here.

Although I don't think there's any knowledge in schools nowadays.

We're living in the times when a recognized scholar like Tatsukichi Minobe

is charged with insulting the Emperor simply for studying the Constitution.

Everything is restricted in schools now.

But entering a good school gives at least some guarantees.

Don't you want to have that?

I'm grateful for your generosity, but I don't want to inconvenience your family.

That's what I expected.

But because the company fired your brother, he was later killed in Manchuria.

We owe you.

You have an old-fashioned outlook.

I work in the mornings and in the evening I go to school.

I can't say that it's easy.

But I'll manage.

I can't say for sure.

But I feel like you're going down the same path as your late brother.

But don't be rash and put your life at risk.

I need to go.

But I've just brought you tea!

Are you in a hurry?

I'm sorry, but I'm meeting a friend.

- I'll accompany you to the station. - No need to.

I wanted to go buy a book. Wait for me!

Kohei!

What I've just told you about is Yoriko's idea.

It was her who convinced father.

Bye.

Wait!

Listen up!

Sano, Nabeyama, Mitamura

they all confessed. And they're important people in the party.

Even they admitted everything.

Why do you keep withholding information?!

You're just making it worse for yourself.

Get up!

I said get up!

I don't know anything and I have nothing to say.

HAIYAMA KOICHI

Who do you think you are painting your proletarian pictures?

Huh?

You think you tricked that fool from the zaibatsu

by selling him your painting for 100 yen?

Stop pretending you don't know anything.

One of Godai's sons told us about it.

I didn't ask him to buy it. He wanted to do it!

What's wrong about that?

Who did you give that money?!

No one. I spent it myself.

You scum!

Next time I'll make a painting of this room.

And depict a man who's being tortured.

And assholes who are laughing.

And neglecting their duties.

What a great painting that will be!

What did you say?!

SHIRO JINNAI

Well?

How are you feeling?

Piece of shit!

Still pretending you don't know anything?!

Scumbag!

Get up!

Jinnai!

How much do you make like this?

Who gives you money for the campaign and where do you send it?

I only helped one woman.

Fool!

How did a decent woman end up in your bed?

You can only afford prostitutes!

Picking up prostitutes isn't against the law.

Stop messing around with me!

I need you to answer all of my questions.

If you don't, you'll get beaten up so hard that you'll piss blood.

Do you know how Takiji Kobayashi died?

You do know, right?

If you get free, you can become a recognized writer.

Misogo Naoki, Masao Kume, Otokichi Mikami, Kyoji Shirai

They were the ones who started the fascist literary movement.

These are the times we're living in.

OTAKI, HEAD SERVANT OF THE GODAI FAMILY

Mr Shunsuke, should I call them?

Department chief and I have prepared the agenda.

As for Haiyama, he's unfortunately sick.

Is it serious?

No, don't worry.

We've postponed the meeting.

Thank you very much for your work.

This is for Mr Haiyama.

Could you give it to him?

Of course I will.

Can I open it?

Yes.

Get up!

Haiyama!

Are you alright, Mr Shunsuke?

- What's with Haiyama? - Mind your own business!

Haiyama is sick. Got it?

ICHIRO KANO

Huh?

ATSUKO KANO

Are you here to see me?

I went to the police department today.

It's a terrible place.

They hate people there.

As soon as I left, I decided to meet you.

You must be surprised?

I am.

But I had the feeling that we'd meet one day.

Have you seen my brother?

No, not after that time.

He still hasn't got married.

I don't know what's on your mind

but he's very worried about you.

I'm not worried about Eisuke anymore.

Thanks to you, Mr Shunsuke.

I still remember that night very vividly

when Eisuke told me about breaking up our engagement.

You told me then, "Forgive my brother."

You comforted me so well.

When my brother was your fiancé

I thought: It would be nice if they got married.

But now I think: It's good that it didn't happen.

I want you to be happy.

You're so young and so noble.

And I'm pathetic.

I'm small like a poppy seed and pathetic.

You've come to see me today.

Will you come again?

I will.

Anytime you want.

Maybe this Sunday?

No, this Sunday I can't.

Saturday morning my husband is going away until Wednesday.

So I can't.

THE GODAI COMPANY TOKYO HEAD OFFICE

EISUKE, THE GODAI FAMILY'S ELDEST SON

Let's get down to business.

How many of these leaflets are needed?

- One hundred thousand. - Alright.

That's 10 sen per leaflet. So 1,000 yen in total.

That doesn't suit you?

What do you think about "emperor organ theory"?

Is that why you're here?

Many people like you come here, people who oppose Tatsukichi Minobe's views.

I'm here only to make the deal.

And this leaflet is just a provocation then?

Who do you think you are?

I'm Godai Eisuke.

I'm well-known both among the military and among the right.

You probably have never heard about the Sakimori movement?

"The Godai company opposes the Showa Restoration"

We can't keep denying the problem connected with the Emperor's powers.

We have to state our position.

YUSUKE GODAI, HEAD OF THE GODAI FAMILY

What does the study of the Constitution have to do with company policies?

It's a trend of our times.

If you go against it, it might end badly.

On the one hand, there's the Imperial Way faction.

On the other - the Control faction.

It's unclear yet who's going to take power.

But it's definitely going to be major.

Both the Imperial Way faction and the Control faction

have old-school generals in charge, who manipulate the young.

All they care about is getting more people on their side.

They want to remove advisors, officials and zaibatsu representatives

and create a military cabinet.

But can they come up with the right program for it?

They're like a child who out of curiosity takes a watch apart and breaks it.

He can't put it back together again.

Because he's only a child.

So he ends up having to take it to the watchmaker.

And when a child starts playing with political reforms, it gets much more dangerous.

They don't know what they're doing.

Playing at least develops a child's intelligence.

And their plans are only going to drown the country in blood.

They can declare all kinds of slogans about the Emperor or the state

but what's the point if they don't know

how to manage the company called "country"?

YUKIKO, THE ELDEST DAUGHTER

Father!

An urgent letter from uncle in Manchuria.

Father, I support you.

But can brother head the Godai company alone?

I have my own vision of the company's development.

Mitsui and Mitsubishi are switching to the needs of the army.

Isn't it the time for us to adopt a new direction too?

Are you talking about the army or Manchuria?

Both.

I'm going to Manchuria soon.

And as for your idea, I think it's worth considering.

Yukiko!

You should get involved too.

Go to Manchuria together with father.

According to the latest reports, Captain Tsuge is in Manchuria now.

He's serving in the Kwantung Army.

And since Captain Tsuge

is on a special mission, he's not going to send you a letter.

There's no point waiting for one.

I have no interest in going to Manchuria.

You're finally here!

Why didn't you come yesterday?

I told you about Saturday. No, why did I let you in?

I told you not to come.

You must forget about me and stop this.

You're going to break my bones like this.

Let's sit.

Let's just talk, shall we?

Maybe you're hungry?

Or maybe you want to go out?

No. Let's stay here.

Did you tell your family where you were going?

No.

So they don't know where you are?

Should I call them?

In order to tell them that you have a criminal in your house?

Don't say that.

How much sugar? Is this enough?

There you go.

What are you thinking about?

That's not right.

Kuji.

That's not right, Mr Shunsuke.

Why is that?

Women of my age shouldn't be with such young men as you.

Age difference doesn't matter.

You have a bright future ahead. I'm just going to ruin it.

You're rejecting me because you consider me a child?

That's not true!

I'm a dirty woman.

I've been leading a life devoid of love

and I poisoned my body and soul.

Even if your heart is dirty, there are no pure people in the world!

Everyone else is even dirtier!

Thank you for your words, Mr Shunsuke.

I made a mistake.

Realizing I made a mistake by listening to your brother

I started to despise myself.

I'm so stupid...

I got married too soon.

And my life became unbearable.

All I wanted was to get married and lead a normal life.

I have to go.

Mr Shunsuke!

You can't be honest with yourself!

You keep repressing your feelings and contradicting yourself!

That's why you married Mr Kano.

And now, regretting and loathing yourself, what are you going to become?

What did you tell Atsuko?

Is anything wrong?

No, it's not about that.

But she's so upset after talking to you.

Did Mrs Kuji tell you anything?

Her last name is Kano now.

And she did. She said she can't see you anymore.

Well if she doesn't want to, that's fine.

Exactly.

And you shouldn't see her either.

She's not one of those who like drama.

It's time she started living the way she wants.

And what about you, sister?

Why aren't you going to Manchuria?

Why aren't you going to Tsuge, who you love so much?

You love him and he loves you.

Don't you care if it doesn't work out?

What you're saying is right.

But it's not all I care about.

If the man I love risks his life fighting for a noble cause

then I don't want my love to make it even tougher for him.

But if Tsuge risked his life not because of his duty

but simply because of his whim...

I'd leave everything and go to him.

MANCHURIA, SIPING

CAPTAIN TSUGE, SPECIAL MISSION

We've conducted a trial of phosgene.

Time of trial - 5 minutes.

The subject died of pneumonia.

We also conducted a trial with cyanic acid.

Now we're testing electric shock. Right now the power is about 1,000 V.

The next shock will be 5,000 V.

Are trials conducted on those who are sentenced to death?

All of them are communist scum, engaged in anti-Japanese activity.

Thank you.

What about biological trials in Hayinga?

We're going to conduct them soon.

We're trying to find a big enough site, over 600 square m.

There's one near Harbin, your new service location. Do you know it?

I don't know any details.

What I'd like to know is

biological trials in Hayinga and Dr Ishii's current ones,

do they have military application?

What are you saying?

We lack military power.

Could this help us gain advantage?

I think it's worth considering that.

Biological trials are none of your business.

I understand what you're saying.

But the trials have been arranged by the authorities.

Keep your opinion to yourself.

Understood.

MAY 2, 1935. 11:00 PM JAPANESE HOTEL IN TIANJIN

MURDER OF JOURNALIST CHUN PU, HEAD OF PRO-JAPANESE NEWSPAPER "STATE AUTHORITY"

A few hours later

MAY 3, 04:00 AM

MURDER OF JOURNALIST BAI YU CHUAN, HEAD OF PRO-JAPANESE NEWSPAPER "ZHENBAO"

In the Imperial Army, the murder of two people

on the Japanese territory considered a serious problem.

SHIGITA KOMAJIRO FROM THE GODAI COMPANY

After Chinese forces invaded Manchuria

chief of the Japanese Garrison Army demanded that general Yu Xuezhong resign as Hebei chairman.

The Kwantung Army demanded from the Kuomintang to withdraw from Hebei.

July 10, Hebei Military Committee chairman He Yingqin

signed an agreement with Yoshijiro Umezu, commander-in-chief of the Kwangtung Army.

It became known as the He-Umezu Agreement.

The Tianjin army cleared the way to Hebei.

The Kwantung Army started a draft in Chahar too.

"Chase away the Chinese troops from Chahar."

SANKO OTORI

"Let's build Japanese planes."

Special mission Commander Doihara is making ridiculous statements.

Why stir up conflict?

Apparently, a soldier has to do it in order to advance.

Only the commanders advance.

KYOSUKE GODAI, PRESIDENT OF THE GODAI COMPANY

Today, the number of those who seek information has increased.

Meanwhile, in Tianjin and Beijing the autonomy movement is thriving.

Everything is going according to plan.

Well...

I don't know.

Let's drink to knowing.

That murder of the head of a pro-Japanese paper...

It was Mr Shigita who put a contract on his head, wasn't it?

This man right here is going to tell us that.

He's just arrived from Harbin, where Shigita was.

RAITA OSHIO

Tell me...

Who from the Chinese side is involved in creating a pro-Japanese government in northern China?

And another one in Manchukuo?

Wu Peifu? Song Zheyuan? Or maybe Wang Kemin?

People of such high stature aren't involved yet.

Who then?

Well...

Share your thoughts, Mr Godai.

About?

Lowering tariffs after the Tanggu Truce

created a loophole in China's foreign trade.

If an autonomous government is created in northern China

secret trade can be legalized and expanded.

Am I right?

Raita!

You'll give the news from Shigita tomorrow.

And now you can go back.

HAKU EISHO

Are Kim Il-sung's troops Korean guerillas?

Kim Il-sung's military camps stretch from Nanang and Shandong

to Wangqing and Hunchun. And they're active.

I know that Feng Yuxiang is also leading the resistance, but where is he now?

On the Songhua River.

I believe guerillas should hide for now.

And gather more ammo and supplies.

Yang Jingyu's detachment is doing it well.

Alarm!

Mr Oshio, it's you.

You talk too much.

All you Chinese are like that.

Are you really an enemy spy?

If I report on you to the Kenpeitai, you'll be executed.

So what are we going to do?

If you want to report, go ahead.

Kuni-chan is so worried about you.

She's is worried even though you're not worth it.

You cause others only harm.

Even dogs love people.

Stop it!

- Spy! - Mr Haku!

Kuni-chan! Are you alright?

UMETANI KUNI

Mr Raita, stop it!

He's a bastard!

I see you've become best friends with this Chinese?

Yes, Mr Haku is my best friend!

What are you looking at? Back to work!

Mr Raita, why do you feel nothing but hate to others?

Why don't you make friends instead?

What is it?

Haku Eisho is a communist spy.

How did you establish that so quickly?

I heard him in the warehouse.

He was talking to one of the communists and said that guerillas should lay low.

Oshio!

You can't just go around labelling people spies like that.

MASANORI TAKAHATA

This man may be sentenced to death. What if you're wrong?

Serves him right.

Stop demeaning Chinese people.

You can tell us the details later. And now we have things to do.

Chief, I'll have a drink as a reward.

Whether he's a spy or not, I'll report to the Kenpeitai.

They'll be here soon.

Because I've already contacted them.

Boss!

That's not good.

Whatever I now say to the Kenpeitai, they won't believe it.

If the Kenpeitai comes here looking for communists, it's going to be a disaster.

I need to do something.

The fact that Haku is connected to Manchurian CPC is well-known.

I know how to evaluate information and sell it.

Instead of allowing information to be leaked

sometimes I leak some of it on purpose.

This way I confirm tips about communists.

But I don't see any reason to cover Haku anymore.

What are you talking about, boss?

How do you accuse someone of a serious crime without convincing evidence?

You do realize what the Kenpeitai are going to do to him if they catch him.

You're going to sentence him to death like that?

You talk too much.

Raita!

Follow Haku.

Why did you give up Haku?

The motto of Manchukuo is "Five Races Under One Union"!

Raita! Boss wants to see you. Go now.

Don't come home for now. Hide somewhere.

If you don't hurry up, in half an hour you'll be dead.

That's all I can tell you.

I understand.

If I hide, you won't have problems because of me, Mr Takahata?

At least I won't be killed. Now go.

Thank you.

This is the jade ring that mother sent from Shandong.

Please, give it to Kuni-chan.

We'll meet again.

Don't die in vain, Haku.

Who's Takahata?

You?

Come with us!

Takahata isn't here.

He's just left for his business trip.

And who are you?

Godai Kyosuke.

Head of Manchurian branch.

What happened?

Let me come with you.

You're going on a business trip too.

It's going to be long so start getting ready now.

Sorry for my manners. Follow me please.

Boss saved your ass.

While you're away, he'll try to negotiate with the Kenpeitai.

No.

He just found a way to use saving me for his benefit.

That's the kind of person he is.

HARBIN

According to the information we have, supplies will be sent in two or three days

from warehouses on the border between Manchuria and the USSR.

Do you know what kind of supplies they are?

LIANG ENSHENG

Mostly rifles.

IVANOV

And plenty of tactical assets.

Goodbye.

He's from the Japanese military mission.

Be very careful.

Good luck.

Wait!

Why don't we go to a hotel?

Sorry, not today.

Wait!

Cab!

Gocho Tanimura's police force still hasn't returned?

Urgent orders. They need to return now!

Tell second company Commander Goto.

Attention!

We have intel on illegal opium trade in Harbin.

I'll explain the details of the plan.

In the eastern part of China St and China town

as well in the south of Qiqihar St and north of Quigal St...

It's clear!

Those who blew up the supplies warehouse are sure to try to escape to China.

- Detain them! - Yes!

There's a cart!

Hold it!

What? There's a woman here.

Where are you heading?

Hello, officer.

CHO ZUIHO

I was with Lieutenant-colonel Oyama playing mahjong.

Sorry for this delay.

Alright. Move on.

Thank you.

Gee up.

Thank you.

Thanks to the warehouse map you provided

we managed to carry out the plan.

How's your arm? Are you going to be alright?

Don't worry about it.

Zuiho, lay low!

Hold it!

Hold it or I'll shoot!

Help yourselves.

Mukden, the biggest industrial city in Manchuria, is developing rapidly.

It seems like the Kwantung Army really doesn't like the idea of zaibatsu settling in Manchuria.

The capital of local companies is bigger than the Japanese ones, including mine.

CHO DAIFUKU

You're being modest.

Not at all. It's true.

Now is the right time to start cooperation for the mutual benefit.

No matter what the military say, I'll build my zaibatsu here.

CHO ENNEN

Companies that used the services of Manchukuo's central bank

Mitsui and Mitsubishi, made a loss of 2 million yen.

If we really buckle down, it'll take about one or two years.

Besides, given the current situation in society, it's not a good idea to create large zaibatsu.

And yet that's what you're going to do, Mr Godai?

What a stupid question!

You've created it already.

I'd like to seek help from local businessmen.

I know how knowledgeable you are about trade.

I have capital to develop technologies and install equipment.

Let's drink to the new society where five nations are united.

I'm a businessman first of all.

I don't reject political slogans, of course

but I don't believe they're a good basis for trade relations either.

In that case, what do you want from me?

My mine?

Yes.

That's going to be a problem.

This mine doesn't work with the Japanese anymore.

It's only to divert the army's attention.

Economic cooperation between Japan and Manchuria is the basis of Manchukuo's policy.

"Co-existence and cooperation of Japan and Manchuria",

"Economic cooperation between Japan and Manchuria."

Those are Manchukuo's slogans.

Let's drink to Mr Godai's health.

The meeting went fine.

If you beat up this old fool, he won't be so big-headed anymore.

All we need to do is wait for the right moment, and this mine will be confiscated by the army.

It's better to stop this.

If the military get involved, nothing good will come out of it.

It's like killing a goose that lays golden eggs.

Maybe it's time you changed your convictions?

It's not the best time to hate the military.

- Well, good night. - Sweet dreams.

Do you have a light?

Here you go.

Thank you.

What you're looking for isn't here anymore.

Late at night...

it was sent to this address.

Why are you giving this to me?

People who are involved in this trade, have a wrong understanding of history.

History itself is behind opium. And opium, in turn, moves history.

The Japanese learnt that from experience in Manchuria.

Thank you!

"WELCOME!"

TOGOSHI YUKI

Mama, here's the money.

Hey! What are you doing?

Are you from the special force? Leave! You're going to damage our reputation!

Help!

Agents are here!

Captain Tsuge, I presume?

Let me introduce myself. I'm Shigita from the Godai company.

The Godai company?

You must be very proud of having caught a military official trading opium.

But you'd better quit this.

Why don't we talk about it?

What do you say, captain?

Let's talk in the Kenpeitai office, Mr Shigita.

What are you doing? It's our room!

What the hell? There's nothing there!

- Stop it! - Out of the way!

Stop it! There's nothing here!

- Stop looking around! - Shut up!

Do you really think we're involved in illegal trade?

Do you think the military and the government would allow that?

Weird thinking.

The army and the government were the ones who found you out.

After the interrogation of Shigita and that woman everything will become clear.

Come in.

The Kenpeitai have just let me go.

I told you that you were wasting your time, captain.

In Manchuria only a sense of justice isn't enough.

An ordinary soldier like you without experience

can't even imagine how important opium trade is in Manchuria.

The purpose of the Manchurian incident was creating the state of Manchuria.

But what's Manchuria's future purpose?

One of its tasks is to protect Japan by being a buffer for the USSR.

The USSR is becoming more and more powerful.

The Kwantung Army headquarters is working on a military plan to fight the USSR.

And I don't doubt them, but there's one "if".

Here's what I mean.

What about the money?

Japan is engaged in defending Manchuria and maintaining order.

Manchukuo bears all the costs of that.

Exactly.

But...

Does the newly-formed Manchukuo have the money?

Are you saying opium trade pays for this?

Last year, Manchukuo's GDP was 64 million yen.

Opium trade accounts for a fifth of that.

But this figure refers to the monopoly

and not to illegal trade, right?

Do you know who ratted me out?

Do you want to know?

That Russian, Ivanov.

He's a criminal. Works for Russian intelligence service.

It's spies like Ivanov that want to stop this trade.

You wouldn't mind getting that money yourself. You could use it.

Clean or dirty - money is money.

Where do you store the seized goods?

I can't tell you.

You were accepted in the Godai family, but you refused.

I thought you'd understand if I explained.

I've come to doubt methods the Godai company employs.

I see.

I thought that because we know each other, you'd listen to me.

But you didn't even try to understand what I was telling you.

I didn't want to ruin your successful career. But seems like I have no choice.

Move it!

Hello! Kenpeitai!

I want to speak to your chief. This is Tsuge.

HIROMICHI TAKEI, SECRETARY

Captain Tsuge is back in Tokyo.

Have you already met him?

Looks like you didn't know that.

That's weird. He started working in the headquarters a month ago.

What does it have to do with me?

Hello?

Ms Yukiko, it's for you.

- Who is it? - Mr Tsuge.

Tell him I'm not here.

Are you sure?

- Hello. - Wait!

Yukiko here.

This is Tsuge. Haven't talked to you in a while.

Because of my special assignment

I couldn't contact you. That's why I didn't call.

I've now completed my mission.

So I wanted to ask you if we could meet. Are you free tonight?

If you're not, it's fine. Tomorrow is OK too.

I can't meet you, I'm too busy.

Maybe next week? How about the 12th?

On the 12th at 12 PM. I'll be waiting in the Imperial Hotel lobby.

Shut up!

Why do you keep whining?

You don't even eat, you just beg for food.

I actually paid your parents a lot of money!

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL SABURO AIZAWA

Agricultural crisis has led to poor harvest and impoverishment.

Parents are selling their daughters and children are starving.

AUGUST 12, 1935 MINISTRY OF WAR, TOKYO

COLONEL KAIJI ISHIWARA

MILITARY OPERATIONS COMMANDER

MAJOR GENERAL NAGATA TETSUZAN

MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMANDER

August 12, 1935

Major General Nagata Tetsuzan, military affairs commander

was murdered in cold blood by Lieutenant-colonel Saburo Aizawa.

At the time, Major General Nagata

was head of the so-called Control Faction

while Lieutenant-colonel Aizawa was a supporter of the Imperial Way Faction.

This became known as the Aizawa Incident.

- Hello? This is Yukiko. Who's speaking? - It's Tsuge.

Mr Tsuge, I'm just getting ready.

Are you in the hotel? But we arranged for 12.

I'm sorry, but I won't be able to make it.

I can't tell you the reason now.

I think tomorrow is out of the question too.

Maybe you can make it the day after tomorrow or later?

I'd really like to see you.

Mr Tsuge, I think you're mistaken.

Do you think a woman can wait forever?

I'm sorry.

And Aizawa...

So the leader of the Imperial Way Faction, Jinzaburo Masaki, was fired as Inspector of General of Military Training

on the orders from head of the Control Faction, Nagata Tetsuzan?

Yes.

Young officers from the Imperial Way hated Nagata.

Sir, you have a visitor.

What are these officers doing now?

Among them there are those who consider themselves Aizawa's followers.

But right now they mostly hold views similar to those of authors like Kita Ikki and Nishida Zei.

I see. I'll figure something out.

Talk to you later.

Even though you promised, I didn't really expect you to come.

Don't be so shy. Have a seat.

I'm not a stranger to you.

I've just talked to a friend from the right wing.

I have many sources

but as far as I know, your husband is still in business?

How much does he need?

I don't know the details, but

He needs at least 300 thousand to stay afloat.

Interesting.

Why does a husband send his wife to fix his money problems?

But you seem to have nothing against it.

I have to admit, you've become prettier since you got married.

I'm even starting to have regrets.

Thank you.

What do you want?

I couldn't have thought you'd come to my brother.

You misunderstood. It's...

I know everything.

I heard my brother call you yesterday.

Be careful what you're saying, Shunsuke! Now isn't the right time.

How much does he want for his help?

Disgrace? Humiliation? Or...

Shunsuke, stop it!

First you fell in love with a married woman as a student

and now you're following people like a stray dog.

You're a disgrace to the Godai family!

- Who's this? - Me!

Leave.

Open the door, please!

I'm sorry for what I said earlier.

Open the door please!

I'm not going to either forgive you or bear a grudge.

Open up!

You've said enough.

Enough insults for one day.

Even if you don't open the door, I'll find a way to get in.

What can I do?

Alright...

Shame. I thought Shunsuke was here.

Do you have any business with him?

I wanted to borrow some books from him.

You can go upstairs and take them.

Mr Shunsuke told me

that if Mr Kohei comes, he can feel free to go upstairs.

Thank you.

Mr Kohei!

Come to my room.

- What are those books? - I found them in Shunsuke's bookcase.

I thought they were yours and hid them.

Did you tell anyone about them?

Of course not.

You thought I would compromise you?

Why did you ask Shunsuke not me?

Because it doesn't concern you, Yoriko.

Stay away from all this.

You haven't seen these books and know nothing about them.

Alright?

I'll do anything for you, Mr Kohei.

Don't say that.

You don't understand anything.

Because I'm a bourgeois girl?

No.

My rented room isn't safe, so I gave them to Shunsuke to keep.

But now the danger is over.

Understand one thing.

Right now Japan is engaged in a bloody war.

And the authorities are trying to repress those who are critical of it.

They are trying to nip these attitudes in the bud.

That's the time we're living in.

One day I'll tell you more about it

so that you could better understand it.

Of course!

I'd like to learn more about you!

DECEMBER 1935

Fall back!

Fall back!

I'll deal with them. Go!

We need to hurry.

People keep dying from cold and starvation.

Military and security units are to spread and go down the mountain.

The rest are to change their positions. We need to move quickly.

Every day we get more and more fatigued.

There are little girls and old people in this liberated village.

They're not as strong as the Japanese troops.

What if the enemy catches up with us?

The situation is getting more dangerous.

But let's try to avoid risks.

Let's get the supplies and...

Bullshit!

Instead of fighting the Japanese

you're suggesting sitting here and waiting for death?

I'm surprised to see a coward like you in the command!

Watch your mouth!

Be respectful of your associates.

I came here on the orders from Manchurian CPC.

And not to listen to your insults.

We need to decide.

Do we stay here or do we go down and find a new place to set camp?

But I warn you.

Even if you take Haku Eisho's side

the rest will still leave.

It's ridiculous!

Shut up!

We're not going to cooperate with cowards.

Stop it!

We need to make a decision.

Who is in favor of Xu Zailin's plan?

And who is against?

Commander! People are deserting.

What?!

You bastard!

Stop it!

Out of the way!

No!

You let them escape.

What if they sell us out to the enemy?

Stop it! Think about what you're doing!

You're traitors! You must be executed!

I don't think escaping should be punished by death.

But if you want to kill this kid and his parents, kill me too.

Fine. I'll shoot you too.

I won't let you.

A conflict between us is exactly what our enemy wants!

Now I know why you're against my plan.

That's because I'm Korean.

Not at all. We're allies.

Except I do much more dangerous work than you.

So why are you against me?

Because I'm Korean.

Why are you against punishing a traitor like Haku Eisho?

Because he's Chinese.

Go on, shoot, Korean.

Do it if you're so proud of where you come from.

Shoot me.

Min Buk! You, at least, understand me?

If you want to shoot then go ahead.

But first I want you to hear something.

North-eastern anti-Japanese coalition army

has issued a proclamation, addressed to all organizations on the Chinese territory.

Japan has been looting the north-east for four years now.

Four million of our fellow citizens have been suffering all this time.

The Japanese are burning down houses, raping women and carrying out mass arrests and slaughters.

No words can do justice to the suffering of our country.

For four years we've been fighting this bloody war

and sending troops abroad to take part in the anti-Japanese movement.

And yet not a single soldier has taken part in battle so far.

Brothers! We are the Chinese and we can't be defeated.

We all follow the same way regardless of where we live.

We have to forget old conflicts and stop the internecine war

for the sake of the Chinese people.

We have to point our guns towards our external enemy.

Enough!

While you're talking we'll march ahead.

We'll go down and head towards the Changbai Mountains.

Kim Il-sung's troops are going to unite with the anti-Japanese guerillas.

There Koreans are fighting side by side with other Koreans.

Stop it, Xu Zailin.

Such foolhardy nationalists like you

won't be accepted in Kim Il-sung's troops.

Punitive force!

They're going to attack the base.

Let's go back.

Otherwise they'll all get killed.

It's too late.

We're too far now.

You're going to abandon your brothers?

Where are you going?

I don't want to be a traitor.

Don't be stupid.

We have to lay low.

Let's divert their attention.

Make them chase us.

Are you sure about that?

Follow me!

Quick!

Min Buk! Stay with me!

Save yourself.

Don't die on me.

Doctors will help you.

Min Buk! Stay with me...

Min Buk!

Answer me!

Min Buk!

Min Buk!

I shouldn't have let this happen.

These bastards killed you.

Forgive me.

I won't let you go anymore even if I have to starve to death.

Your motherland is that way...

We both...

came here from our faraway Korea.

We've always been together. We slept and woke up together.

We ate the same food and fought side by side.

Why did you have to die without me?

Next year flowers will grow here.

And I'll come to look at them.

Let pink flowers grow here.

Snow is everywhere now.

Everything looks the same.

But when I see pink flowers...

I'll understand that you're there.

Let pink flowers grow here.

INTERLUDE

FEBRUARY 26, 1936 EARLY MORNING

Second platoon, attack!

PRIME-MINISTER'S RESIDENCE MAIN ENTRANCE

Put the machine gun there!

Get in position.

SIDE ENTRANCE

February 26, 1936

On this day, officers from the Imperial Way Faction,

who supported the creation of a military government

headed by the Emperor,

rose up with the slogan

"Showa Restoration is the restoration of the state".

1,400 petty officers and soldiers

from 1st and 3rd infantry regiments and 3rd regiment of the guard

started attacking politicians who supported Prime Minister Keisuke Okada.

After attacking the Asahi Shimbun newspaper's office, they spread around the Prime Minister's residence.

Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal Saito Makoto,

Minister of Finance Takahashi Korekiyo

and Inspector General of Military Training Jotaro Watanabe were assassinated.

Grand Chamberlain Kantaro Suzuki was seriously wounded

and barely survived.

This event became known as the February 26 Incident.

ASSASSINATED: SAITO MAKOTO, TAKAHASHI KOREKIYO, JOTARO WATANABE

WOUNDED: KANTARO SUZUKI

Rebel forces assassinated top officials

hoping to overthrow the government and seize power using force.

Many soldiers come from poor peasant families.

That's why you can't build a strong army

- without giving financial aid to peasants. - And what will command do with this army?

They're going to send these peasants to die in war.

Your brother died in war and came back as ashes.

Commanders who started the war have never been under fire.

They've never slept in the mud. But came back triumphant, with medals and decorations.

And the Godai company is profiting off this war.

Kohei, I'm thinking of going to Manchuria after I finish school.

What for?

In order to be as far from Atsuko as possible?

Not only for that.

I'm fed up with the education restricted by the system.

I think it's no different from living in Tokyo and working for a corporation.

What if after I leave the corporation and start working in Manchuria

I discover new opportunities?

You're too self-assured.

Luxury brings unhappiness.

But living alone without anyone to ask for help

is so hard, you can't even imagine.

The war is getting closer.

I'm going to keep relying on myself only.

And I'm going to keep doing my best here, in Japan.

Long live the Emperor!

Long live Showa Restoration!

Long live the Emperor!

JULY 12 THE SAME YEAR, 15 PARTICIPANTS OF THE FEBRUARY 26 INCIDENT WERE EXECUTED

XINJIN

You agreed on 30 sen, so pay 30 sen.

I don't think the rickshaw would cheat.

Why beat him if you think the price is too high?

How dare you? Who are you anyway?

Why do you support this Chinese scum?

What did you say?!

Is all this fuss because of a few coins?

Pay at least 20 sen.

I won't pay him anything!

You think you don't have to pay simply because he's Manchurian?

Or maybe you don't have 20 sen on you?

What did you say? Do you know who I am?!

Alright.

By the way, what's your name?

You're responsible since you opened your mouth. Introduce yourself.

My name is Godai Shunsuke.

Godai Shunsuke...

We'll meet again someday.

The Japanese have no right to reproach anyone!

Kuni-chan!

Why are you barefoot?

I finally bought these shoes with my pocket money.

Great, Kuni-chan.

You left the company and entered the telegraphers' school, didn't you?

- Did dad tell you? - Yes.

You're going to catch a cold.

That cab driver didn't even thank you.

He didn't have to. I'm the same Japanese person as him.

Not at all, you're not like him at all!

Well maybe not.

In Manchuria the Japanese behave too arrogantly.

Besides Japan is at war with China.

Wasn't it the Chinese army that started the war in Shanghai?

That's what my school teacher and father say.

I don't think so.

The Japanese government is doing everything the army says now.

It's bound to get entangled in the war.

THE KWANTUNG ARMY OFFICER, PRINCIPAL MECHANICAL ENGINEER IN INNER MONGOLIA

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL RYUKICHI TANAKA

XINJIN AIRPORT

SECOND COMMANDER OF THE KWANTUNG ARMY LIEUTENANT-COLONEL AKIRA MUTO

Mr Godai!

I'd like to know about the military operation in Suiyuan.

I'm paying for it.

You get your information first-hand, as usual.

And this is...

I know him.

Former squadron-leader of the Kwantung Army, now chief of Manchurian aviation Mr Kawaida.

In the Suiyuan battle you commanded an air squadron.

You know everything!

Is the Kwantung Army departing?

A little while ago De Wang arrived in Xinjin. He was praised and upon returning to Mongolia, was promoted.

It's unacceptable for Inner Mongolia.

As far as I know

the Kwantung Army has crossed the border with Manchukuo and advanced towards Suiyuan

following the Emperor's orders.

And that means, the order needs to be distributed.

I don't think the Kwantung Army should be subordinated to De Wang's Manchurian army.

In order to keep the struggle of the Tianjin Army and the Kwantung Army for glory and influence under control

I gave my tacit consent to creating a factory in Suiyuan.

But if it's going to be necessary to finance a war as well, I don't think it will work out.

If this really happens, it might lead to serious consequences.

The Kwantung Army received a sponsor in the Jizhou government.

And after Jizhou's trade suddenly increased

it now drains industrial profits.

News from Godai straight from Manchuria?

Kyosuke insists on carrying out the Suiyuan operation.

But I'm against it.

Why is that?

If we continue to spread our influence in China

we'll have to face America and England who also have their interests there.

It's still not too late to use Manchuria

to increase the power of our country.

Don't you think so?

November 1936

The Kwantung Army carried out its plan to capture Suiyuan.

In January the same year, using the support of the Kwantung Army

De Wang ordered the Inner Mongolian army

to capture Hongort.

"No war with China!" "Hands off China!"

Run!

Is Mr Shimegi here?

Shimegi? He hasn't shown up at work for a few days.

Is he sick?

I don't know.

I'm sorry.

Hey, it's that girl that came recently!

Looks like Kohei hooked up with her.

Wait!

Did you want to find out about Shimegi? The police came asking about him recently.

You're here at last.

I have a cold.

What are you going to do?

What can I do?

No matter where I go, they'll find me.

But, Mr Kohei...

It wasn't in the papers but

a week ago there was a raid on the leftists.

I hate to admit it, but I'm trembling with fear now.

Our anti-war movement is still weak

but they see persecuting us as a way of maintaining peace.

Before this activity didn't used to be banned.

Liberal ideas are against the law now.

And war keeps getting worse.

Tell me what I have to do. I'll do anything!

Pretend that you don't care.

And forget about me.

That's the best thing to do.

I don't know how many months or years I have to do that.

You're saying that I have to pretend I don't care until I see you again?

You're telling me to forget you?

Actually, I had a dream.

I dreamed that one day I'd marry you.

But a dream is a dream.

Even if I get out of prison, I'll be immediately sent to the army.

And then to the battlefield.

There I'll die of a bullet or rot in the military prison.

No no! Don't say that!

I can't save you.

But I can wait for you however long it takes!

Don't worry about me.

The worst thing for me is causing you trouble.

Go back home.

How can I not worry?

- Should I ask father to help you? - Stop it! Don't say that!

What should I do then?

Brother said that they torture people in the police.

Don't worry.

No! No!

Let me accompany you.

- Come on! Come on! - Take it easy!

Come on!

KOREAN PAK

You two, hold on there!

There you go!

Rice!

Who wants hot water?

Who's thirsty here?

What an appetite!

STUDENT SHIMAZU

I've been here for a month, and still can't get used to it.

It's not exactly tasty.

But you have to put something in your stomach.

You can't survive otherwise.

Who was that?

Pak, the truck driver.

He's been in prison so many times that he now helps the staff.

Any news from the outside world?

Japan has signed a pact with Germany.

Finally the government joined forces with Hitler.

And what's happening in Spain?

Germany and Italy have sent their troops to support Franco's army.

The Popular Front army is fighting fiercely in Madrid.

Both in Asia and in Europe

the fire of war keeps burning brighter and brighter.

What are you talking about over there?

Shimazu! Interrogation time.

Don't worry, leave this to me.

- Good luck. - Move your ass!

Hey!

Wake up.

The interrogation was a real battle.

If I didn't know the answer or couldn't say who the enemy was, they beat me.

If it goes on like this, I'll crack.

I'm starting to give up already.

You have a fever!

I'm alright. Don't worry. Go to sleep.

Guard! Shimazu has a temperature!

We need water and a towel!

Shut up!

It's against the rules.

- Guard! - What?

Don't be so tough. I'm asking you too.

Wait till tomorrow. Then he can go to the doctor.

Then let me go to the toilet.

- Hey! - Guard!

Can I drink some water?

Thank you.

"Long live Japan without the imperial rule!" "The Emperor must be overthrown!"

Enough. Go to sleep.

Thank you.

Is there Mr Ayukawa from Nissan in the plan of Manchuria joint enterprise?

The army and the Manchurian government also want him in business.

It probably contradicts the plans of the Manchurian railroads

if Nissan takes on the development of heavy industry in Manchuria.

It's better to prevent this from happening before the official announcement.

It might work.

Thank you for the offer but no.

Yoriko has come to ask me for something, that's rare!

So what is it? Fire away.

Mr Kohei's been arrested. Please help him.

I see...

Shimegi is very determined.

I don't know what he was arrested for

but I think it's better if the court deals with it.

How can you say that, father?

What if Shunsuke got arrested, would you say the same thing?

Probably.

If Shunsuke or Shimegi break the law, I'll do everything I can.

But I won't go against the law myself.

I'll think about the order in the company first.

And Shimegi apparently thought about destruction.

Yoriko, why do you want to save Shimegi?

He's alone, miserable and in a very difficult situation.

For a man, a difficult situation is not something to bargain about.

You're so compassionate because of your young age.

But you can't be like that your whole life.

I'm already 18. I can take responsibility for my actions.

Mr Kohei is a kind and proud man.

But you know that yourself!

Have a seat.

According to radical left youth

the revolution isn't near.

And our company isn't getting old so quickly.

Shimegi was a nice guy.

But he chose the wrong way, and now he has to suffer the consequences.

When did you join the readers' club?

I didn't.

Some tea?

Yes please.

Thank you.

When did you join the readers' club?

I didn't!

Others told us everything!

We have all the information we need on you.

Have you read Korehito Kurahara?

I have.

- Hiroshi Nagata? Jun Tosaka? - Both of them too.

Looks like you're reading only useless literature.

Is it illegal to read books that are available on sale?

Fool!

Talk!

Where did you get these books?

- I didn't get them. - You bastard!

Who are your accomplices?

I don't have any.

If you say so. And what about the monarchy?

Don't tell me you haven't heard about that either.

You better talk!

Now!

The monarchy didn't bring me any good!

So your group is against the monarchy?

Talk, bastard!

- No, it's not. - Liar!

- Kill me! - Talk!

- Talk! - Kill me!

Confess!

Look! If you don't tell us everything, the same will happen to you!

You've had enough for today. Go back to your cell and think.

Behaving arrogantly will only make it worse for yourself.

I'm not arrogant and I'm not hiding anything.

I'm not a thief to be interrogated like this!

You bastard!

Get up. I'll take you to your cell.

Shimazu is sick, so take care of him.

If you don't confess, they'll kill you!

Did you do well?

Just fine.

How are you feeling?

I'm holding on.

A Korean communist is an even worse enemy for them.

A communist and on top of that an advocate of independence of Korea.

That's why they torture me even harder.

But you're in a difficult situation yourself.

You will leave prison and go straight to the army.

How do you take part in a war when you have class conscience?

Shut up! What time do you think it is?!

If I have to die

I want to die in Korea.

Do you have family?

No, they all died

during the Great Kanto earthquake

by the hands of the Japanese police.

I won't let you die, Pak.

Unless you're back in Korea, I won't let them kill you.

XINJIN THE KWANTUNG ARMY HEADQUARTERS

I'm not only commander of military operations,

I'm also Minister of the Army and Deputy General Secretary.

That's why I flew from Tokyo yesterday.

On what matter?

According to the second code of principles of relations with northern China

the Chinese government, with ministries in

Hebei, Chahar, Beipei and Tianjin

is going to conduct an anti-communist, pro-Japanese and pro-Manchurian policy.

The rest of the forces will be assigned to the pro-Soviet strategy.

Those are the main considerations.

Conflicts in Inner Mongolia, provoked by the Kwantung Army

CHIEF OF STAFF REAR ADMIRAL SEISHIRO ITAGAKI

are aggravating anti-Japanese sentiments in China.

DEPUTY CHIEF OF STAFF COLONEL HITOSHI IMAMURA

This may lead to disastrous consequences.

Provoking China while our defence against the USSR is still weak

is very undesirable, according to the headquarters.

That's why the Kwantung Army needs to put an end

to disturbances in Inner Mongolia immediately.

Both chiefs share that opinion.

Even though, as you say

both chiefs think so

it doesn't mean that you support this opinion, am I right?

What are you saying?

I've sent many telegrams signed by me

where I condemned what's going on in Inner Mongolia.

Both chiefs follow regulations from the headquarters

that's why they sent me here.

I'm surprised.

During the Mukden Incident, Mr Ishihara

together with Rear Admiral Itagaki acted as he saw fit, contrary to the headquarters' regulations.

You were one of those behind the incident, weren't you?

What Mr Ishihara did during the Mukden Incident

we consider a great example of decision-making.

We couldn't even think that after our praise you'd do something to be criticized for.

Did officer Muto really say that?

Still, what's your personal opinion about the headquarters?

My opinion is exactly the same.

Do you really not have your own position?

We have to gain military power by conducting military operations.

Mr Godai from Tokyo agrees with me.

My brother?

He clearly said that the invasion of China should stop.

That's my brother. And I have my own opinion on that.

Good evening!

Mr Godai, you have a letter from Tokyo.

- Thank you. - And here's your key.

Hello.

May I help you?

Nice room.

It must have a lot of sunlight during the day.

Who told you I was here?

It wasn't easy to find this place.

My house in Tokyo isn't easy to find either

but you managed to do that too.

Mr Kano?

Exactly. I'm Atsuko's husband. Ichiro Kano.

Do you get letters from Atsuko?

No.

Shame...

How can she not write the only person in the world who understands her?

Learning Russian?

I'm traveling all the time

but unfortunately my Russian is pretty bad.

What I do know well is that you come to my house regularly.

The woman I'm seeing I know not as Atsuko Kano.

But as Atsuko Kuji.

What are you trying to say?

That you groped not Ichiro Kano's wife

but some woman named Atsuko who has nothing to do with the Kano family?

That's how you explain your actions?

You're pathetic!

How can you think so badly about your wife?

Is that all you wanted to say?

Were you expecting admiration for speaking about your wife's infidelity with such calm?

My words must have hurt you a lot since you're so angry.

Ah, almost forgot.

I'm thinking of inviting Atsuko here.

Because of work I'm going to stay here for a while before returning to Japan.

I'm still thinking about where to take her.

I think this is a good place.

Today I'm going to send her a telegram.

She's not used to traveling, so I'm expecting her arrival in about seven or ten days.

When she arrives

I might be in Beiping.

And if I'm not here

maybe you'll take care of her.

If I have your permission, then let's do it like this.

A man like you is no match for Atsuko!

"Go by boat to Dalian. Hurry up. I'll wait for you on the pier."

A typical telegram from Shunsuke.

What are you going to do?

Tell me, what's really on your mind?

When unhappy people seek advice from someone

they've actually already made their decision.

When you asked me for advice

you knew that I wasn't going to dissuade you.

Didn't you?

When Shunsuke came up with various reasons

to leave the Godai corporation and go to Manchuria

I assumed that a moment like this might come.

During these 29 years

I've never done what I wanted.

I've been lying to myself the whole time.

But at least once

I want to do the way I think is right.

Up until today, I'd been fighting with myself.

Should I go to Dalian?

I was engaged to Mr Eisuke once.

Because of the age difference with Shunsuke

I married Mr Kano.

But even though I convinced myself to do it

my heart belonged to Shunsuke.

Mrs Atsuko!

Do you know that in Manchuria, like in Japan, infidelity is considered a crime?

I do.

If your husband finds out

he might file a lawsuit against you and your lover.

DALIAN

Finally you're in Manchuria!

This time people are marching with banners!

They're jealous of the country people.

Here they're eager to please landowners.

They don't have to pay the rent on land

and they don't have to survive on radish anymore.

Great!

Well, here I am at last.

Thank you so much.

It's up to you.

Should I stay or leave?

Don't you know the answer?

I'm... only a burden.

It's too late to go back on this.

Now you're mine.

I'm really sorry...

We'll always have enough money to live on.

If my salary isn't enough

I can teach, translate from Russian.

- Maybe do something else too. - I can do something too.

Don't worry about that.

It's just...

What?

I think I'll be drafted.

Then I'll miss you a lot.

Anyways, for now we'll have a carefree life.

Yes. Let's go to Harbin.

Right.

- Do you have everything? - Yes.

I'm sorry I took so long.

- Hello. - Atsuko! It's me.

Finally I found out which hotel you're staying in.

Who is this?

It's better for you to return to Xinjin.

Why?

Kano is coming here.

I'll ask him to give me a divorce.

It's going to take some time. So wait.

- What are you talking about? - It has to be only the two of us.

I got so carried away with all this...

But it won't work like that.

Whatever happens, we have to stay strong!

I'm not afraid of accusations of infidelity

or what other people will say about us.

But if we live together like this

it will poison your life.

Nonsense!

He's not going to go to court.

Instead, every day

he's going to send some malicious people to us.

Because of me you'll have to fight with gangsters

and endure hardships. I can't take it.

Instead, I'd better spend time in Kano's house

where I'll think about you and comfort myself.

Mr Godai, if you think that I'm going to agree to divorce Atsuko

then you're mistaken.

I'll never divorce her.

Please lend me some money.

How much?

50 thousand yen.

In order to free that woman from her husband?

First you left the Godai corporation that you hated so much

and now you come to me asking for money and appealing to family ties.

What happened to the Shunsuke I knew?

- Don't you think it's inappropriate? - I do.

I have to decline your request.

If you told me your business fell through

I'd help you to get it up and running again.

But I'm not going to give money for affairs.

I understand.

Wait.

Take this.

But with one condition.

Go to Tianjin as one of Godai employees.

Beiping and Tianjin are in the center of the Hebei province.

Find out what the East Ji Autonomous Council managed to do there.

Kanebo is now part of Shanhaiguan, Toyobo - of Tashang

Mitsubishi - of Qinhuangdao, Toyo - of Guye.

Japanese corporations in Qingdao and Shanghai

are having troubles because of anti-Japanese sentiments.

The East Ji Autonomous Council is trying to maintain order.

Meet a man named Takahata in Tianjin.

Together find a good place for a textile factory.

Deal?

Give me the key.

Your girlfriend asked to give you this letter.

- Where did she go? - She said she was going to get on a 11:30 train.

Thank you.

I decided to follow Kano wherever he went.

I chose the way which will protect you from terrible people.

If you suffered because of me, I wouldn't be able to bear it.

I'm just happy that I'll die alone, without causing you trouble.

Every day I'm together with Kano, a little part of me will die.

And I will be thinking about you and missing you.

Atsuko, you're wrong. I won't let you kill yourself.

You arrived in Dalian to live. I won't let you die like this.

You arrived in Dalian to live!

Fast train Mukden - Xinjin is departing.

December 2, Inner Mongolian military government headed by the Kwantung Army

was defeated in the battle of Bailingmiao

by the Chinese army and was forced to fall back.

News about the victory of their troops inspired Chinese people

and anti-Japanese slogans became even more common.

VICINITIES OF XI'AN AND LIANGTUN

"Japanese soldiers - out of Suiyuan!"

"Put an end to internal strife!" "Chase away Japan together!"

"Let's fight Japan who's against the communist army!"

Meanwhile, Kuomintang's Chairman of the Military Affairs Commission Chiang Kai-shek

set out from the military base in Jiangxi.

Reaching northern Shaanxi, he united with the Chinese People's Liberation Army

which liberated the whole Gansu province.

They stopped in Huachi, near Xi'an in the Shaanxi province.

XI'AN, HEADQUARTERS OF ZHANG XUELIANG, COMMANDER OF THE NORTHEAST ARMY

DECEMBER 11, 10:00 PM MEETING OF COMMANDERS OF THE NORTHEAST AND THE NORTHWEST ARMY

Five years ago

after northeast fell

our state sovereignty was getting weaker day by day

and the territory of our country was shrinking.

This was a heavy burden for our people.

In these hard times, our commander Chiang Kai-shek

ZHANG XUELIANG

is like a warrior surrounded by enemies.

He's already losing popular support.

We have to repair the damage caused by his policy.

YANG HUCHENG, COMMANDER OF 17TH ARMY

December 12, dawn

We have to present Chiang Kai-shek with our demands

and force him to comply with them.

CAPTAIN SUN MING-JIU

All chiefs of Hebei military administration agreed

with certain demands to Chiang Kai-shek.

First, restructure the Nanking government, allow other parties

and defend our country together.

Next, stop the civil war.

Release all political prisoners.

Lift the ban on the popular patriotic movement.

I'm the ruler of China!

CHIANG KAI-SHEK

I'm your Supreme Commander!

You're also our prisoner.

DECEMBER 16

XI'AN AIRPORT

The Xi'an Incident rocked the whole world.

CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE MILITARY COMMISSION

ZHOU ENLAI

False rumors have been spreading about Chiang Kai-shek's health.

A few days later, Zhang Xueliang arrived by plane

YE JIANYING (CHIEF OF STAFF)

to the main CPC base.

From there, he returned to Xi'an with three CPC leaders.

NORTHWEST SOVIET DISTRICT GOVERNMENT CHIEF BO GU

Sworn enemies for ten years

representatives of the two sides

have met in Xi'an to negotiate.

Mr Hattori, is Chiang Kai-shek alive?

What does father say?

Father says the riot was orchestrated to make a deal.

That means if they agree, he won't get killed. If they don't, he will.

- Is that what he meant? - Probably.

TATSUO HATTORI, LECTURER OF MANCHURIA MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

What's the agreement about?

Rescuing the country from Japan.

Chiang Kai-shek wants to pacify the communist army.

But he doesn't want to fight against Japan.

The Chinese troops are now at the Suiyuan border.

But their intention is not to fight against the Kwantung Army.

Their intention is to surround the communist army.

Zhang Xueliang also received an order to pacify communists.

But instead of fighting their brothers, Zhang Xueliang's troops

decided to fight against the Japanese.

Ennen, what do you think?

But can Chiang Kai-shek preserve his authority after being captured by Zhang Xueliang?

Does he realize the seriousness of his situation?

He probably didn't accept their demands.

So Chiang Kai-shek is dead.

Or will be.

It's not the time to kill Chiang Kai-shek.

Even though Chiang Kai-shek isn't going to fight Japan

if he dies now, the history of China will go 10 years behind.

If Chiang Kai-shek is killed

China will fall apart and will be consumed by chaos.

Then we can't fight Japan anymore. We're at the end of our tether.

We won't be humiliated any longer!

Brother! We need to talk.

Excuse me.

I look at you

and I envy your vigorous patriotism.

Striving for the nation's honor and greatness

does not contradict patriotism in your case.

Sadly, it does in the case of the Japanese.

For the Japanese, patriotism is closely linked with war.

And war is by definition aggression towards another country.

We need to talk. In my room.

Excuse me, I have business in town.

Can I go with you?

I booked a hotel room in the name of a Japanese couple.

I need to talk to you. Come with me please.

Mr Hattori, have you heard

that last year the Kwantung Army's warehouse was blown up in Harbin?

- No. - A friend told me

that the Kenpeitai is looking for me as a suspect.

Were you involved?

I don't know how much longer I can keep pretending to be Japanese in this hotel.

But for now I think the most reasonable thing to do is to hide here.

This is suicide.

You can't even imagine how powerful the Japanese authorities are.

They conduct their investigations very thoroughly.

I understand.

But there's something I have to do.

I have to.

You're like a fish in the corf.

It's only a matter of time before the chef catches you.

I think it's safer to hide in Hong Kong for now.

I'll make an action plan for you.

- I won't run away. - Why not?

If this was peaceful time, I'd probably have fun now

because I'm a rich man's daughter.

But there's no peace now.

I was born and raised on the Chinese soil, which is being abused by foreigners now.

Where am I going to run?

My brave fellow citizens are being arrested and killed.

How can I hide in this secret place

spending money and waiting for the war to end?

You can continue doing what you do abroad.

I've made my decision. I'm not leaving.

I'm not running from these animals.

Sir...

I'm sorry that I involved you.

Where's Cho Zuiho?

I'm a doctor.

If you need medical help, I'll help you.

But I can't help you with anything else.

Who are you fooling?

Arrest Cho Daifuku!

If you want to do your duty, say where Zuiho is.

Or...

We'll take grandpa instead.

MUKDEN MANCHURIA MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

Over here, dear students!

Mr Hattori, do you like chestnuts?

Hot chestnuts!

Good price.

That man can be trusted.

Who are you talking about?

Don't worry. We're friends.

That seller across the street and me.

Tell her that danger is coming.

You have to leave the country within three days.

And there's something else.

Yesterday Chiang Kai-shek was released and returned to Nanking.

He had talks with CPC

and both sides agreed to put an end to their conflict

and create a united anti-Japanese front.

You can find out the details from a note in the chestnuts.

Let's have a drink to the creation of the united front.

This is a new period in Chinese history.

Even though I understand the reasons

I can't rejoice thinking about the war.

Let's drink to you avoiding persecution.

What are you going to do after they stop looking for you?

I thought about it...

I was considering joining the guerillas.

Joining the guerillas now is tantamount to death.

Soon territories where guerillas are operating will break off.

Peasants, separated from their land, will be sent to isolated settlements.

And this land will be occupied by Japanese colonists.

It might be temporary but

they have reinforced measures to counteract anti-Japanese guerillas.

Zuiho, let's talk in the room.

Hope I'm not disturbing you?

Hiding in the den of the enemy is smart.

But there are limits.

Soon the photo of Zuiho will be all over the hotel.

That will be the end.

Who do you think ratted out Zuiho?

Godai Kyosuke.

In order to get the mine that belongs to Cho Daifuku

he decided to label Cho's family as enemies of the state

and make the army confiscate the mine.

And what's your goal?

Give me Ms Zuiho for some time.

This way she will be able to escape from Manchuria.

In Hong Kong or anywhere else.

I'll do it for 10 thousand yen.

It's a small price for saving a life.

I barely know you. I've only seen you a few times.

- Leave. - Don't worry.

If I have started something, I'll finish it.

Do you think this is the right situation to tell me something like that?

You're in the net.

If you want to save yourself, you have to follow my instructions.

If you screw up, instead of an exciting job you'll fall.

You can't leave!

Don't worry.

Make up your mind.

If you do, Mr Hattori will have to say goodbye to Zuiho.

He'll just walk around town and then return home.

And then disappear from Mukden.

Agreed?

It will be as if Mr Hattori has never met us.

Who the hell are you?

I'm someone who knows how to break locks.

This are the basics of breaking into an apartment.

Get out.

If you have some business, approach me like an honest person.

I'll leave if you answer my question.

Where is Cho Zuiho?

You work for Godai.

Tell this to Godai Kyosuke.

Even though he conspired with the army to steal the mine

one day the Chinese people will take revenge on him.

Where's Zuiho? Tell me.

You said goodbye and then she disappeared.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Now leave.

Sleep on it.

Next time the knife will strike here.

I'm sorry. I'm sorry.

The 8:45 express train Xinjin-Harbin. Please prepare your tickets.

The 8:45 express train Xinjin-Harbin. Please prepare your tickets.

Come with us to the precinct.

Shame I can't go with you to Dalian.

Such a shame.

Hey! Move it!

Don't stop. There are many police around.

- Hold on. - What is it?

My shoelace.

We agreed that you will do as I say.

- Anything wrong? - No, everything's fine.

The 8:45 express train Xinjin-Harbin. Please prepare your tickets.

JULY 8, 1937, 05:30 AM VICINITY OF BEIJING, LUGOU BRIDGE

THE FENGTAI GARRISON OF THE JAPANESE ARMY

Early morning on July 8, 1937, the Fengtai garrison of the Japanese Army

opened fire at the Chinese army by the Lugou Bridge near Beijing.

The pretext for the attack was the fact that the night before

Chinese soldiers supposedly opened fire at Japanese soldiers that were training.

TOKYO ARMY HEADQUARTERS

Troops on the ground were given the headquarters' orders.

COLONEL KENSHIRO SHIBAYAMA

They have also received directives concerning possible plots.

MAJOR GENERAL KANJI ISHIWARA

When security of the country is at threat, we have to take precautions.

COLONEL TORASHIRO KAWABE

The central army is heading north.

COLONEL AKIRA MUTO

The only way to solve he current situation is by force!

At the same time as the Lugou Bridge Incident

COLONEL SHINICHI TANAKA

Chief of Operations Kanji Ishiwara

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL TANSHITSU TAKAHASHI

insisted on preparing for the war with the USSR

and went against the command

MAJOR SHINTARO TSUGE

which wished to limit the conflict

and was against sending troops to China.

Commander of the Tianjing army Hashimoto

rejected the necessity of sending troops to China.

He said the same about the central troops.

However...

JULY 11, 1937. DURING A MEETING THE CABINET OF MINISTERS DECIDED TO SEND THREE DIVISIONS FROM JAPAN

ON JULY 19 THE SAME YEAR, CHIANG KAI-SHEK GAVE A SPEECH ON MOUNT LU'AN AND DECLARED WAR AGAINST JAPAN

Our brave soldiers, who are going to fight dishonor and evil

are saluted across the whole country

Stop please.

Going to the frontline again?

Says who?

I thought we could talk somewhere quiet.

Are you going to get married?

I had a fiancée in Kanazawa.

What are you going to do if she says she wants to come back?

She said a woman can't wait forever.

Being a soldier I can't guarantee that she won't have to.

Are you angry with her?

No.

Do you want her on her knees?

No.

Should I give her a message?

Tell her to wait until the war is over.

And if she says she's not going to wait, well, there's nothing I can do.

I haven't made up my mind yet.

Now that the day of the service begins...

Should I go to the army? Or just return to prison?

Or should I run away?

In any case

we'll have to say goodbye.

You've just been released from prison, and now...

This is so cruel!

They didn't let me out of prison.

They just moved me from detention in prison

to detention in the army.

That makes me remember

what my brother told me the night before he was sent to the battlefield.

"Don't believe."

"Either men or women or ideas... before you figure everything out."

"This is the only way not to regret afterwards."

My brother, who didn't believe anyone except me

died on the frontline in Manchuria.

I still don't know whether what he said was right.

But I will say this.

He's free from suffering because people dear to him are miserable.

Am I misery for you?

As long as there are people like you in the world...

what way to choose is only up to you.

And I'll try to understand why you chose it.

I'll be glad if you just live.

Tonight I can be as late as I want.

Soon you'll leave.

Until that happens...

please prove to me that you're alive.

Now you're here.

But soon you'll leave.

When will you return to me?

And will you return at all?

The most important thing for us...

Why can't we do what we've decided by ourselves?

TIANJING

I got a message from my uncle in Xinjin.

He's asking me to come back and become an interpreter in the Kwantung Army.

That will help me to avoid having to serve.

Mr Takahata, what you're going to do?

Will they raise their weapons against the Chinese people?

When they come face to face on the battlefield, what should I do?

I...

"Rise up! Don't let them enslave our people!"

"Let's build the Great Wall with our blood!"

"The Chinese nation is in a predicament now."

"Let's rise up and fight!"

"Rise up! Unite and open fire at the enemy!"

"March on!"

FIGHT THE JAPANESE!

IMPERIAL ORDERS TO ALL TROOPS STATIONED IN CHINA TO PREPARE FOR BATTLE

July 27

Troops stationed in China received orders from the Emperor

to prepare for battle all over the country.

This is how the undeclared war started.

The Second Sino-Japanese War that started here

over the next 8 years spread over the whole Chinese territory.

DIRECTED BY SATSUO YAMAMOTO