Original subtitles

In the Battle of Sekigahara, 1600,

Shimazu Toshihiro who sided with the Toyotomi,

was defeated by Tokugawa Ieyasu.

However, among the defeated,

Shimazu was the only daimyo whose domain was left intact.

It was probably because Ieyasu feared...

the strength of the Shimazu who held the southern provinces.

Then, 251 years later, when Nariakira appeared,

the Shimazu's position had changed completely.

Nariakira was the head of the feudal lords vital...

to the restoration of the Tokugawa shogunate.

But his father, Narioki, was still in good health,

hoping that Hisamitsu, his son by his concubine Yura,

would be his heir.

Nariakira, a man with his eyes on the world,

clashes violently with Narioki, who takes a conservative stance.

National crisis and internal factionalism,

problems within and outside the clan,

await Nariakira, the new clan chief.

Tobu ga Gotoku

Episode 2: Arrival of the New Clan Chief

Screenplay: Osanai Mieko

Original Story: Shiba Ryotaro

Misic: Ichiyanagi Toshi

Original Subtitles: Network Japan, Inc.

Transcribed and Edited Subtitles: Kame Fansubs

Narrator: Kusano Daigo

Cast

Saigo Kichinosuke: NISHIDA TOSHIYUKI

Okubo Shosuke: KAGA TAKESHI

Ijuin Toshi: MINAMI KAHO

Kiku: TANAKA YOSHIKO

Saigo Masa: FUJI MANAMI

Oyama Katunosuke: KANIE KEIZO

Saigo Kichibei: SAKAGAMI JIRO

Saigo Kimi: OJI MICHIO

Saigo Ryuzaemon: HAMAMURA JUN

Shimazu Hisamitsu: TAKAHASHI HIDEKI

Shimazu Nariakira: KAYAMA YUZO

Producer: Yoshimura Fumitaka

Director: Hirayama Takeyuki

April 5, 1851

Open the gates!

Nariakira, 28th Lord of Satsuma,

who was eagerly awaited by the reformists,

arrived in May, 1851.

It was 18 months after the Takasaki Fiasco.

Older Brother, welcome back.

Arimura came for you many times.

Go quickly! Shosuke must be anxious to see you.

It's an all-night drinking party, right?

Take this with you.

Mother...

Kichijiro got it.

To celebrate, you can't go empty-handed tonight.

Thank you very much.

How about some sake?

Thank you very much.

Shosuke!

You'll be a free man tomorrow.

We're all here. Can't you look happier?

I was born with this face.

Have a drink.

That's fine!

Watch! Tomorrow, Lord Nariakira will order...

those evil retainers to slit their bellies.

Since he hasn't done anything yet,

the new lord can't be a decisive man.

Are you insulting Lord Nariakira?

Shosuke can't hold his liquor.

Ah, that smells delicious.

It tastes better with lots of green onions.

I'll get more if that's not enough.

Swipe a chicken and some potatoes, too.

We're celebrating.

Brother, Kichinosuke is here.

Oh, Kichinosuke.

You're late!

Never mind. Here, sit a spell.

Thank you for waiting.

Mother, Kichinosuke brought this.

Shosuke, congratulations.

What's to be happy about?

He's not a good drinker. He's drunk.

I'm not drunk.

Shosuke...

Shosuke...

Let Kichinosuke handle him.

Are you all right?

It makes me angry when they tell me...

that I've become churlish from the long confinement.

I can't be completely happy about it.

Although Lord Nariakira has returned,

my father is still in exile.

Sir Akayama won't come back to life either.

Don't talk like that.

Lord Nariakira will avenge him.

That's the kind of man he is.

Shimazu Hisanori and Hisataka will either be...

confined or ordered to commit seppuku.

Sir Saburo won't get off lightly for going along either.

What's the use if things don't change from now?

I understand.

Now that I am the head of the clan,

I am trying to be particularly attentive.

Since I cannot attend to everything personally,

I'll need my aides to work scrupulously and unselfishly.

I direct this especially to Shimazu Hisanori and Hisataka.

You were appointed by my father to take Zusho's place.

I hope you will serve me loyally...

in your capacity as councillors.

This is the time for government reforms.

First, we must improve the local administration.

If we have our people living in destitution,

not only are we unable to uphold the nation's laws,

we suffer the disgrace of not honoring our words.

It is urgent that we practice simplicity...

and frugality to make our country prosper.

Lord Saburo, thank you for taking care of things in my absence.

Have a drink.

Thank you.

To get to the point,

I'd like to be excused from my position as Senior Councillor.

Oh, why is that?

Brother, now that you're back,

I'd like to go back Shigetomi and,

inexperienced as I am,

improve our domain as my part in your plans.

I see.

If the clan chief's brother sets an example,

the others will follow.

I appreciate that.

Yes.

That means we'll see little of each other like before.

That's right.

However, we are brothers with the same father.

Remember that well.

I'm home.

Welcome home.

Shosuke's here.

I'm sorry you had to wait.

You're very late.

We served him dinner, but he wouldn't touch it.

Thank you, but I'm not hungry.

Well. I'm famished.

May I have my tray brought here?

Oh, thank you.

Won't you join me?

Why?

Why hasn't Lord Nariakira issued orders for seppuku?

They're potatoes as usual, but go ahead and eat.

We are to assemble at the school tomorrow.

Whatever for?

I don't know.

I'll let you know as soon as I find out.

Try not to worry.

It's my nature to worry.

That's why you're skinny and have a weak stomach.

Kichinosuke, are you making fun of me?

If it bothers you, eat.

No thanks!

You're under house arrest because of loyalty.

You don't need to be ashamed of being poor.

I'm not ashamed.

Aren't you putting up a front now?

If you can eat somewhere else,

there's that much more for your mother and sisters.

You can't fight on an empty stomach.

Fight?

Are you thinking of a rebellion?

Even if he is my master, if there is injustice,

it's the warrior's way to protest by slitting his belly.

So stop your yammering and eat.

Let me convey Lord Nariakira's message.

Because of recent visits from foreign ships,

we must be prepared for war.

What we must remember at this time is that...

the unity of the people is more valuable than...

heaven-sent chances or natural advantages.

National unrest stems from individual discontent.

Discontent arises from a lack of access to rice and money.

If there is discord among the people,

we won't be able to resist the foreigners when they advance on us.

Therefore, we must behave with decorum,

condemn high-handedness in officials,

and not allow injustice or self-promotion.

We must work together for our country's prosperity...

Watch. At last, the heads of evil-doers will roll.

Lord Nariakira's policy will be "gen-ro-to-kai."

Gen-ro-to-kai? What's he talking about?

Gen-ro-to-kai means that everything is important...

in developing new policies.

Anyone with a good suggestion...

should feel free to submit it.

I'm so sorry.

Not at all.

Thank you.

Can anyone submit an opinion?

That's right. It means we have a voice.

No one has ever tried this before.

It's a boon all right, but it's still not fair.

What are you saying?

An important thing is missing.

I don't have that privilege...

because I'm still under house arrest.

Never mind. I'll write about that.

You write something, too. I'll submit it for you.

Kichinosuke...

We'll begin by telling him everything...

that has been on our minds.

Then if he doesn't like it,

we can slit our bellies.

All right.

A petition... To begin with,

I respectfully submit that those despots who...

misruled the clan until now be punished.

Yura and her confederates have committed iniquities...

for a number of years but have escaped punishment...

and retained their official positions.

This is contrary to the doctrine of punishment and reward...

and is the cause for corruption of public morality.

Such persons should be punished,

and those who served loyally should be commended.

Those who were exiled or confined as a result of this incident...

should be promptly recalled and pardoned.

Nariakira proceeded with a force of a burst dam...

in his urgency to develop people and country.

Are you taking out 5,000 koku of rice?

That's right.

We'll sell it below the price in town.

This rice was set aside by Sir Zusho,

the former finance magistrate, against an emergency.

This is an emergency.

Last year's rainstorms have driven rice prices sky high.

If the masses are hungry,

my orders for reform will fall on deaf ears.

Even if our stores are reduced,

as long as the people are well-fed and able to do their work,

they will be replenished.

Do you understand?

Then check on the retailers,

so the price of one koku doesn't exceed 13 kanmon.

But the market price is 20 kanmon.

I'm aware of that.

No one will be allowed to raise prices arbitrarily.

Furthermore, those who take advantage of their positons...

will be severely punished.

Nariakira also extended a helping hand to retainers...

who were in difficult circumstances.

He secured their livelihood by granting them cultivated land.

The Saigo family received...

3,000 tsubo of land on the outskirts of town.

At this time, one man was brought to the castle...

without the shogunate's knowledge.

He was a fisherman from Tosa,

who had been cast adrift on the Pacific Ocean during a storm,

and rescued by an American whaling vessel.

This was John Manjiro, who returned to the Ryukyu Islands...

after an 11-year absence from his homeland.

I see, so this is a whaling ship.

It's quite large, isn't it?

You may reply directly to me.

Why have ships been coming so frequently to Ryukyu?

They want to establish a whaling station.

And then make it an American tributary state?

No, that country is very large and very unlike England.

How is America different?

America is a new nation where all sorts of people get along well.

It's a new country; yet it can send many ships here?

How can they?

Her people came from England, France, and other countries.

Everyone works as he chooses.

The harder one works, the more he gains.

That's why everyone works so hard.

If everyone gets along so well,

their ruler must be an exceptional person.

The leader is decided by ballot.

Ballot? What do you mean?

The man most qualified to rule is chosen.

By whom?

The baker, the shoemaker... anyone can cast a ballot.

How interesting.

Lord...

I'll let you stay at the Nishida town hall.

Make me a model of an American whaling ship.

We must not...

We brought him from Ryukyu in strictest secrecy.

Then, having him do that...

What will we do if the authorities find out?

I don't care.

Do it so they don't find out. Right, Manjiro?

Shosuke, have some more.

What a blessing that the prices have come down.

I'll have more then.

If our crops do well,

we can share some of our harvest with your family.

Thank you very much.

Kichinosuke...

Yes.

Ichiki, whom you met earlier, has asked for Koto's hand.

Are you talking about marriage?

Grandma and Mother agree that he's a fine prospect.

Ichiki is a fine young man.

Well, congratulations, Koto.

But, I...

Huh?

Is something wrong?

No...

Which brings us to, Kichinosuke...

marriage plans for you.

For me?

Her name is Toshi and she is from the Ijuin family.

She's perfect!

You know her?

Ijuin Kanehiro and I are schoolmates.

Toshi is Kanehiro's older sister, but I've never spoken to her.

Really! Right, brother?

Be a good grandson and present Grandfather...

with a great-grandchild soon.

Yes, ugh, I haven't even thought of marriage yet.

That's why your parents are suggesting it to you.

These things must be done in order.

Yes, unless you get married,

Koto won't feel right about marrying.

This is what's meant by two birds with one stone.

Two birds with one stone? Am I a bird?

Young men of Satsuma don't ask silly questions.

Ah ha, I'm so happy for you!

Congratulations, Grandfather.

I understand.

Kichinosuke, Grandpa says you'll make a dashing bridegroom.

I'm surprised to see Kichinosuke blushing...

He's really turning red.

Oh, my. Aren't you red?

Thanks, Gonbei.

What is it?

Oh, God of this shrine,

I'd planned a direct appeal to Lord Nariakira...

to have my father's sentence repealed,

but of late, I've changed my mind.

I, Okubo Shosuke, pray with all my heart that you will...

keep my father safe and see that he is pardoned soon.

Older brother...

If you can't make up your mind, why don't you meet Toshi?

Since Father and Mother chose her, it isn't necessary to see her.

Then you'll marry her?

I don't know.

Shosuke is still under house arrest,

and his father is still in exile.

I can't be happy when he's not.

You're still up?

I lost some time going out to inspect the armory today.

Try not to rush so much.

There is an accumulation of urgent matters.

Look at this.

Satsuma people take everything so seriously.

That's true.

Saigo Kichinosuke...

He has submitted a number of letters.

Saigo Kichinosuke, look for them.

It says he's an assistant district clerk.

He's expressed some down-to-earth views like,

"Many farmers take flight because of corrupt officials."

You must be tired.

Which ditch did you fall into today?

I climbed a tree.

Why did you do that?

A child climbed up and couldn't get down.

It was nice of you to help.

Oh, I thought I heard you. I've been waiting.

I'm sorry I'm late.

I was about to send someone for you.

Is there a problem?

Don't get excited.

Lord Nariakira has responded to your petition.

Huh?

Saigo Kichinosuke...

Accept it with care.

Kichinosuke...

Yes.

According to the person who brought it,

Lord Nariakira wrote that himself.

I've been waiting after washing and making myself clean.

Since it's in the lord's own hand, may I see it, too?

Water! Bring some water!

Not that kind... water for purification.

What you say in your petitions are right.

I am aware of those who are passing bitter days on lonely isles,

sentenced for their part in the Takasaki Fiasco.

However, if I were to grant them pardons now,

it would be tantamount to informing the world...

of my father's errors.

If I am to be a dutiful son, I cannot do what you ask.

But, I have not forgotten them...

"When the time is right,

"they will be pardoned and recalled a few at a time."

"In the future, should you become aware of other things,

"feel free to submit your views. Nariakira"

Father!

Sir Akayama would have been pleased.

Our lord is truly a wise ruler.

You'll never find another like him anywhere.

Well done, Kichinosuke.

Father...

Lay him down.

Kichinosuke, serve our lord honestly...

even if it means your demise.

Yes!

Kichinosuke...

Now do you understand?

The lord has not forgotten your father.

Lord Nariakira said he'll pardon... and recall a few at a time.

Please let no harm befall my father until then.

Shosuke...

How did you know I'd be here?

Kichinosuke told me.

Don't worry, I won't squeal.

Thanks.

By the way, about Kichinosuke's marriage...

Oh, what's been happening?

Absolutely nothing.

Shosuke, I'd appreciate any ideas.

Ichiki Shonojo is a fine young man.

Is something bothering you?

No.

What's holding you back?

You can tell me anything.

Koto.

I'm worried about Grandfather.

You don't need to worry about Grandfather.

As Father said, a great-grandchild will be the best...

medicine for prolonging Grandfather's life.

It will soon be the season for weaving...

and preparing bean paste. If I were to leave...

No need to worry about that, either.

Does that mean you'll be getting married?

Let's get you taken care of first.

It's a good match. You must become happy.

You've looked after the younger ones.

You must not feel bad about leaving us.

He's coming!

He's coming!

What's going on?

Not so loud!

- Isn't he here yet? - Not yet.

What's he doing at an important time like this?

What's wrong?

Nothing.

Is someone after you to repay a debt?

Or, is it girl trouble?

Sister...

I'll do what I can to help you.

If you have a problem, tell me.

Oh, Kichijiro.

I've something important to tell you.

Shall we go?

Sister, wait here. I'll be right back.

Brother...

Wait, Kichijiro!

What's going on?

Why, you're...

Excuse me for the other day.

I'm Ijuin Kanehiro's elder sister.

You're Ijuin...

Toshi is my name.

Closer... Closer...

We were both told to wait here,

but if we're seen like this,

it won't be good for your reputation.

I'll turn that way.

Are they holding hands?

No, they're looking in opposite directions.

This is frustrating!

If only Shosuke were here.

He's under house arrest.

He can't walk about in broad daylight.

Okay, we've got to do something.

Who are you?

Oh, why it's Kichinosuke...

You sly dog, what a place for a tryst.

A tryst? What are you saying?

You're still holding her.

I can't ignore that remark.

I can't let you mar a young girl's reputation.

Then why don't you marry her?

You planned this!

I hope you will be very happy.

I wish you the same.

I wanted you to have a nice trousseau...

Shonojo said I only needed to bring myself.

Are you sweet on him already?

Yusuke...

What do you think of our Zoushikan?

It's a training school for nurturing samurai,

so they can deepen their studies...

and train their bodies and souls.

That's correct.

Learning about universal logic...

and understanding the basic principles of things.

If you don't understand what is going on in the world,

you cannot contribute or help Japan.

So I'm thinking of sending some samurai to Edo...

if they want to help Japan.

Tell my vassals what I've said...

and have them send in an application.

Nariakira's epoch making notice...

gave vassals hope and energy.

Oh, this makes me so excited!

The time has come, Kichinosuke.

You've always said you wanted...

to go to Edo or Nagasaki to study.

Yes, I want to go to Edo to study about the world.

But, I can't go because I'm in confinement.

And, I just got engaged.

You can always postpone or break the engagement.

- No, I can't do that. - Why not?

That will shame the Injuin family.

In that case...

My parents made the arrangements.

I don't want to hear your excuses.

Well...

Kichinosuke...

We are Sakurajima!

We are not always patient. Sometimes we explode!

Let yourself explode!

Okay, shall we fly to Sakurajima?

Or, we will end up just saying it.

No...

Then, cry or fly!

Cry or fly!

Let's go get it!

To be continued.