Original subtitles

At the end of the 19th century...

...a number of developed European countries invaded China.

In the 33rd year of Meiji (1900)...

...a local resistance, the Boxers, rioted in Shandong province...

...and that movement grew and spread out from Tensing to Peking.

They besieged and attacked the embassies of the countries that invaded China.

So, Britain, the U.S., France Russia, Germany, Italy, Austria

...and Japan sent troops to China to defend their embassies.

After the Boxer Rebellion was settled...

...all the troops returned home, including the Japanese.

However, the Russian troops remained at the chief ports of Manchuria.

And, moreover, they deployed more of their armed forces.

They seemed to be trying to take over Manchuria.

Japan protested to Russia about their retaining troops in Manchuria.

However, in the end, negotiations were stalled.

After that, Russia ignored Japan's diplomacy.

Battle in the Sea of Japan

If Manchuria and Korea were occupied by Russia...

...Japan's safety would be threatened.

. . On the 100th anniversary of Japan's empire...

January 12, 1904 . On the 100th anniversary of Japan's empire...

January 12, 1904 . .

January 12, 1904 ...hurriedly, a series of meetings were held by the Emperor's advisory council.

. ...hurriedly, a series of meetings were held by the Emperor's advisory council.

The situation is about to get worse. The moment of truth has come.

We will need your decision quickly, your Highness.

I believe that we have no choice but to declare war against Russia.

Even if it costs our lives, we must be ready for that.

Prince Hirobumi Ito No Japanese would want to just wait for Russia to defeat us.

Prince Hirobumi Ito No Japanese would want to just wait for Russia to defeat us.

Field Marshal Aritomo Yamagata . I agree, your Highness.

Field Marshal Aritomo Yamagata . I agree, your Highness.

Field Marshal Aritomo Yamagata . .

Field Marshal Aritomo Yamagata We cannot expect Russia to be trustworthy anymore.

. We cannot expect Russia to be trustworthy anymore.

If we don't make a move now, we will lose the chance to do anything.

They have a population of 400 million people...

...and, if they use their open-war policy...

...10 to 20 million soldiers could be ready at anytime.

In addition, their naval strength is also vast.

The Asian division of their troops alone is as large as our entire military.

If they send all the troops they have, it would be twice our number.

We have to be truly determined.

Count Kaoru Inoue . Yes, indeed.

Count Kaoru Inoue . Yes, indeed.

However, we can make our nation aware of the situation.

And we can look for help from other powerful countries.

Then, we do what we have to do.

I will attempt to contact the Russian Emperor again.

It will only be a displeasure both for Russia and Japan to sever our relationship.

You, too, must again seek their reply.

Should we conclude today's meeting now, your Highness?

Yes.

Yamamoto...

Yes, sir.

Why did you make Togo the commander of naval forces?

Heihachiro Togo is a very worthy man.

Oh, is he?

I have found that he has an invincible fighting spirit and an amazing ability to focus.

Plus, he is discreet and has nerves of steel.

Russia never answered Japan's diplomatic calls.

Japan is a county comprised of a number of islands...

...so naval supremacy is most important.

Needless to say, our Navy must be strong.

In order to dominate the sea, we have to take the initiative...

We have to strike first.

Prince Ito...

Our Navy's been ready for this for a long time.

Prince Ito.

What do you think about the people's mindset?

Sound and very spirited.

After our war with China...

Because of Russia, France and Germany's brazen intervention...

We lost the Liaodong Peninsula, which we gained with so much blood of our people.

This is something we Japanese will never forget.

Are you reminding me of that intervention?

The desire for vengeance has been waiting...

...in every Japanese mind since then.

Especially in your mind.

Right after the intervention...

...the Navy demanded two million yen for their budget...

...while the nation's entire budget was 800,000.

Don't you see?

At that time, the reason we had to fight was...

...because of our lack of naval strength.

Enough.

I never know when you stop your speech once you start.

Prince Ito...

It would be all right for the Navy to make an immediate strike, wouldn't it?

Prince Ito, we will defeat them in one fell swoop.

Are you sure that you can carry this out?

Yes, Prince Ito, I am sure.

February 5th

Now it's time for war...

Sasebo Naval Port

Flagship Mikasa

So, the Baltic Fleet is now in the Baltic Sea?

Yes.

If the war starts, they would make their way north.

They will come from the Atlantic Ocean via the Mediterranean Sea...

...through the Suez Canal to the Indian Ocean and finally to Japan.

But, since Great Britain and Japan are on good terms...

I don't suppose that the Baltic fleet could pass through the Suez Canal so easily.

Then...

They would have to detour around Cape Town.

Well, that's nearly impossible for a massive fleet like the Baltic Fleet.

I would say it's god's blessing that...

...the Russian fleets are split into the European and Asian squadrons.

Even the Asian squadron is split into two smaller units; Port Arthur and Vladivostok.

Yes...

The initial objective for us to achieve...

...would be to try to annihilate the Asian squadrons.

The strategy is to capture Chemulpo Bay in Korea...

...and safely transport our military supplies via the Korean Strait.

Admiral Kataoka, take this task with your 3rd Fleet.

Then, what about the 2nd fleet?

Admiral Kamimura, there are plenty of other missions.

Well, that's true.

I'll be looking forward to those.

Russian Naval Conference room, Port Arthur

It was the day of the Santa Maria Celebration.

Commanders of the Navy were invited by Vice Admiral Stark.

Admiral, we have urgent information...

The Japanese fleet has sailed into Chemulpo Bay with three transport ships...

...and their soldiers are moving in.

What!?

That night, the Japanese 3rd Fleet sailed into Chemulpo Bay.

They ordered the anchored Russian ships, Varyag and Korietz, to leave.

And then, Japanese ships waiting outside the port attacked those Russian ships.

February 9th, off Port Arthur Meanwhile, the Japanese main fleet discovered a Russian fleet off Port Arthur.

. Meanwhile, the Japanese main fleet discovered a Russian fleet off Port Arthur.

They engaged the Russian fleet and inflicted massive damage.

A Russian battleship, the Petropavlovsk, was damaged, along with four other ships.

But the Japanese ships were under fire from Russian artillery...

...and those that were attacked suffered considerable damage.

Off Chemulpo Bay

We were hit here, too?

Three hits from astern.

Admiral...

We've had many accusations for leaving the battlefield...

...immediately after the Port Arthur Fortress began to cover their fleet.

Chief?

The Navy won't fight against their forces on land.

I mean, we can't.

We must have our Army fight and defeat the fortress at Port Arthur.

But...

Staff Officer...

We have to fight against a Russian fleet that's twice as large as ours.

Twice as large...

Yes, the Baltic Fleet.

We cannot afford to have suffered damage from the Port Arthur fleet.

Our 2nd Fleet has been deployed to the Sea of Japan.

Have we heard anything from Kamimura?

Not yet, sir.

February 10th, north of the Japan Sea Russian ships Rossia, Rurik, and Gromoboi from Vladivostok...

. Russian ships Rossia, Rurik, and Gromoboi from Vladivostok...

...appeared in the Sea of Japan and attacked Japanese ships.

The Second Fleet To take care of this problem, Togo had...

. To take care of this problem, Togo had...

...Vice Admiral Kamimura in the armored cruiser Izumo, with three other armored cruisers...

...and two protected cruisers, knowing the full risk of dividing naval power.

However, at this time in the northern part of the Sea of Japan...

...it was very misty, with little visibility, so the 2nd Fleet wasn't able to engage the Russian ships.

In order to destroy them all...

...we have to lure them out of Port Arthur...

...but we've not been able to estimate the range of their artillery.

Now, in order to solve this problem...

Why not trap them inside the port, unable to leave?

To execute this plan...

...we need to sink a useless ship here and block the port...

Come in.

Sir.

I've just heard from Commander Arima.

We need you to explain the plan again.

Yes, Sir.

The width of the entrance of Port Arthur is 210 meters...

Yet, only the 91 meter wide channel in the center allows larger ships to pass through.

The deepest part of the port is 16 meters.

So if we sink a ship there, Russian ships could no longer enter or exit the port.

But, in order to execute this plan, we have to be exposed to Russian artillery.

Yes.

Basically this is a suicide mission, isn't it?

No, Sir. We've prepared thoroughly for it.

We plan for everyone to come back alive.

Can this plan succeed?

If not, we'll make attempts until we do succeed.

Commander Hirose...

Then we must make sure we succeed the first time around.

Yes, Sir!.

Chemulpo Bay

This is a really old ship.

Sir, do you want to use this one?

I heard that we have over 2000 volunteers for this operation.

That's more than enough, even if we make them go only once.

Will we perform this blockage operation several times?

It will be necessary to do it several times even if we are successful.

You were chosen for the second attempt, right Sugino?

Yes, Sir.

Commander?

Yes?

I heard that you spent a long time in Russia as a military attach�.

And that you like Russia.

Yes, I like Russia.

I have many Russian friends, too.

And yet, you can still fight against them?

I am fighting, as you can see.

Fighting is for my county, but friendship is still friendship.

There's a cat here.

I don't know if it lives here or is a stray...

But either way, we can't let it stay since we're going to sink this ship.

Yes sir. I'll catch it.

Torashivanovich....

Why did you choose a Russian name like that?

Well, I love the story "Transiberia" written by Gobori, so...

I've heard that you've read many different Russian books.

Not that many, but I like Pushkin and Tolstoy.

You are peculiar for a soldier.

Major Akashi...

Do you think one country can completely conquer another by the use of war?

What do you mean?

If Japan wins the war and achieves peace...

Wouldn't much Russian literature enter Japanese culture?

If so, why does the culture from the defeated country come into the winning country?

Doesn't that mean a country cannot completely conquer another country?

That's what I meant.

I don't know about that.

But I see that you're saying you want to survive.

I'm saying that I want to see a post-war world.

Yet, aren't soldiers supposed to die when a war takes place?

You told me that you met the Boss of Shimizu a long time ago, right?

Yes.

You told me that he said that in a fight, if an opponent moved even a tiny bit...

...he would yell and spring upon the opponent.

And, in a second, the fight would be over by those two moves.

Yes.

I think a war isn't much different from that.

I would die...

Commander?

Oh, you caught it.

Yes, but it's a little weak.

I see.

Major Akashi liked cats.

Major Akashi?

Major Akashi of the Army.

He was also at the Japanese Embassy in St. Petersburg.

Assigned to some kind of special mission.

I wonder how he's doing.

He's a very fascinating person.

February 20th

The first ship for the blockage operation was fired upon and sunk...

...by Russian artillery before it reached the destination.

The plan failed.

Admiral...

The first division of our Army has landed at Inchon.

Oh, so they have.

If our Army closes in on Port Arthur from the rear, we can cause them much damage.

But before that, we have to make sure that the enemy can't escape to Vladivostok.

By the way, the Russian fleet in Vladivostok is still freely dominating the Sea of Japan.

What is the 2nd Fleet doing?

Well, Kamimura's mission is very difficult.

Moreover, he doesn't have our Army's support.

Commander Hirose, what is it?

I came here to ask for your permission.

For what?

I swear we will successfully execute the operation this time...

So allow me to be aboard with them.

I swear we will carry it out this time.

Please.

March 27th

You're here.

What are you writing, Sir?

It says:

"Respected Russian soldiers...

"I'm Japanese Commander Takeo Hirose.

"We've come here twice already to block Port Arthur.

"We will continue so until the port is blocked."

Why did you write something like this?

Well, when peace comes...

The Russians may fish up this ship, the Fukui Maru, and my friends might read this.

You are talking about after Japan's victory, sir?

Yes.

I am now doing my damnedest for Japan's victory.

I wonder after the war, what kind of conversation my Russian friends and I would have?

Commander, aren't you prepared for death?

Fool!

We will return after the success of this operation.

We will come back alive.

Do not forget that.

Sugino, promise me that.

Yes, Sir!.

What? The Yakushi Maru!?

Stop the engine!

Drop the anchor!.

Sugino, go set off the fire.

Yes, Sir.

Get the boat ready!.

Everyone, to the boat!

Ensign Ishii!

Ensign Ugi!

Ensign Tsunami!

Ensign Hirano!

Ensign Yamamoto!

Ensign Kobayashi!

Ensign Hiramoto!

Ensign Matsushita!

Ensign Nakajo!

Ensign Tada!

Senior Chief Petty Officer Sugino?

Senior Chief Petty Officer Sugino?

Sugino!?

Is he not here!?

Commander?

Everyone stay here. I'll go back and look for him.

Sugino!

Sugino!

Sugino!

Commander, come back!

Come back on board, sir!.

Sugino!!

Now go, leave!

Commander, were you able to find out what happened to Sugino?

I don't know...

I looked for him in the entire ship, but...

Commander, would you come back again to carry out this operation?

I'll come back until we succeed.

Commander?

Even after the second attempt...

...the enemy fleet easily sailed out from the port between the sunken ships.

Consequently, a third attempt was made...

...yet, it was again not quite successful.

Meanwhile, in the beginning of May...

The Japanese First Army crossed the Yalu River...

...and advanced towards Castle Ai-ho.

In the following days, the Second Army landed on the Liaodong Peninsula.

The Navy's 3rd Fleet, which was guarding the Second Army...

...experienced a series of strange incidences in the thick fog from May 12 - 17.

On May 12th, the torpedo boat, Tsuhotei, was sunk by a mine.

On the 15th, our armored cruiser, Kasuga, and protected cruiser, Yoshino, collided.

Consequently, the Yoshino sank.

And...

And?

Yes, Sir.

On the very same day...

The battleships, Hatsuse and Yashima, both struck mines and were sunk...

On the 17th, auxiliary vessel, Oshima, collided with the Akagi... then went down.

The destroyer, Akatsuki, hit a mine and sank.

Seven ships in six days.

We've lost one-third of our main fleet.

What a terrible fate, one after another...

Yes, Sir.

There's more.

And?

As a result, now the Russian Navy outnumbers us 6 to 4.

Understood.

Here is the established plan:

To defeat the Pacific squadrons of the Russian Navy, repair and re-supply all of our ships...

...then, face the Baltic Fleet.

That is absolutely right.

We weren't supposed to lose any of our ships until we faced the Baltic Fleet...

Yet, we have already had considerable losses.

If the Baltic Fleet shows up with the Vladivostok Fleet still striking about us...

...we are going to face the enemy fleets in our own front yard.

Come in.

Here is a telegram from the Army.

The Third Army, led by General Nogi, began landing at Dalian Bay, Sir.

Oh, they finally started.

Now it won't take long for them to get to Port Arthur.

The fall of Port Arthur is pending now.

No...

It won't go easy at all.

The garrison and the fortress at Port Arthur have taken advantage of the terrain.

That makes it much harder to defeat them.

General Nogi will have a difficult time there.

But, regardless, they have to conquer Port Arthur before the Baltic Fleet arrives.

Some people say that the Baltic Fleet won't even come at all.

The Baltic Fleet will come. They will definitely come.

If so, we will have a tough confrontation with our 2nd Fleet deployed in the Sea of Japan.

June 13th, The Sea of Genkai, The Second Fleet

Somehow, we can't capture them.

We do have information that Rurik and Gromoboi are attacking around here.

I guess we don't have any luck.

Staff Officer...

Do you want me to say what you are refraining from saying?

What is that, Sir?

What is Kamimura doing?

You have heard people saying I have betrayed Japan and made a deal with the Russians, right?

Officer Sato also has heard about it, haven't you?

Yes, Sir.

But no matter what people say, I have to wait until we spot the enemy...

...because if I leave the ship, I am no use.

The Army troopship, Hitachi Maru...

...fully loaded with 1095 soldiers of the 5th, 6th, & 7th Guards units...

...320 war horses and other important units of heavy weaponry.

. It left Shimonoseki with another transport, Sado Maru.

June 15th It left Shimonoseki with another transport, Sado Maru.

John Campbell, an Englishman,

...was the captain of the Hitachi Maru.

At 7:00 AM, when they reached the Sea of Genkai they heard sounds in the distance...

It was the Russian ships...

...Rossia, Gromoboi, and Rurik from Vladivostok firing at the troopship Izumi Maru.

Oh, that ship!

Port!

It's still following us!

We've spotted something, probably Russian ships.

Commander, I'm here with a report: we've found something ahead, most likely Russian ships.

What!?

Captain Yamamoto, get everyone ready, and fire back.

Yes sir.

Get ready and fire!

Oh, where is the captain!?

Campbell is British.

We must help him out of here!

I will go find him, sir.

Special edition! Special edition!

Hitachi Maru struck down!

What were the guard ships doing!?

That's right!

We cannot be more furious about the sinking of the Hitachi Maru.

The people of Japan are angered and our voice will reach Kamimura in the Sea of Japan.

All the anger of the people over this matter is aimed at Kamimura and his fleet patrolling the area.

I see.

Sinking the Hitachi Maru was all my fault, huh?

And that was the motivation for people to hurl rocks into my house.

But everything is okay.

My wife is a both-feet-on-the-ground type of woman, and loves me very much.

Don't worry, staff officer.

I understand that people are angry at me since I couldn't defeat the Vladivostok Fleet.

And just stay here.

Staff officer, how about a drink?

Not for me, sir.

All right. What about you men?

No, thank you, sir.

If you don't drink, just leave the room.

Everyone, go away!

Even though our situation here is tight enough to call Kamimura back, we cannot.

Kamimura has to beat the Vladivostok Fleet.

And he will.

But, sir.

Staff officer, we are soon going to have help from our Army units.

General Nogi will attack Port Arthur from the land.

Port Arthur, Japanese artillery battery

The Third Army on the front Line

Against Russian troops in a sturdy fortress with machine guns...

...hand grenades and artillery...

...Japanese troops were too exposed and lost over 16,000 soldiers.

Were the 1st and 2nd Divisions completely destroyed?

Yes, sir.

In addition, the night attack on the Orphan Hills failed as well.

General...

Because of our huge losses...

Captain Tsuchiya of the 11th Division has suggested a change to the plan in his letter.

Namely, any fortress is built sturdiest at the front.

We might want to change our standard strategy...

And think about a new strategy?

Yes, sir.

I disagree. No matter how invincible the fortress is...

The enemy can't supply necessary materials to the soldiers inside.

But it's possible for us.

The standard strategy is the best way.

But... if we keep losing so many soldiers...

General, you might...

The General shall not be a mere human!

Staff officer, what do you mean by that?

Captain Tsunoda...

It means that if General Nogi were only a person who worried about huge losses...

...we couldn't conquer Port Arthur.

General...

You have promised Admiral Togo...

...that you would conquer Port Arthur by August.

Major Yamaoka.

Yes.

Give my order to Captain Tsuchiya of the 11th Division...

Go charge with their full ability as we planned...

...without any second thoughts of getting annihilated.

Inform Admiral Togo immediately.

Yes, Sir.

We've just heard from Colonel Akashi at the legation in Stockholm.

The Baltic Fleet was ready to leave as the Second Pacific Squadron.

However, their destination is still not clear.

Admiral, the Russian ships inside the port are attempting to break out of our blockade.

They have no choice but to fight their way, I guess.

Right, it's because General Nogi has started attacking from their rear.

Yes.

Admiral, I'm here to give the sortie order.

August 10th Admiral Togo led out only four battleships and two armored cruisers...

. eight protected cruisers, 18 destroyers and 30 torpedo boats...

...to face the entire Russian First Pacific Squadron...

...which was six battleships, four protected cruisers, and 14 destroyers.

Admiral Togo placed his ships between the Russians and Port Arthur to block their return.

But the Russian fleet was heading for Vladivostok.

The Japanese fleet steamed at full speed to catch up with the head of the Russian battle line...

It was 1743 hrs when they opened fire on the leading Russian ships.

From then until dusk, Togo's First Division and the six Russian battleships...

...fired on each other on almost even terms...

...with Mikasa and Tsesarevich receiving the brunt of the punishment.

A shell exploded on the bridge of the Tsesarevich, killing Admiral Vitgeft and the other officers...

...and locking the battleship's steering so it made a 180 degree turn.

With the Admiral dead and no one to give commands, some Russian ships followed the flagship...

so that the Russian battle line made a full circle and cut across itself...

The Russian fleet was in complete disarray...

...and gave up the attempt to reach Vladivostok.

So the Japanese fleet ended up chasing the Russian fleet back to Port Arthur.

Go! Go!

At full speed.

Onward!

What's the distance?

8500 meters. Gradually getting closer.

In the end, out of the more than ten major ships in the Russian fleet...

the flagship Tsesarevich was badly damaged and barely reached the German held port of Qingdao

The other Russian ships steamed back to Port Arthur.

The Japanese learned how difficult a stern chase can be.

And this experience was useful to the Japanese in later sea battles.

On October 15th, to the cheering of several thousand Russian people and Tsar Nicholas the Second...

the Baltic Fleet left the naval port of snowy Libau...

...as the Second Pacific Squadron, heading to the Far East.

The Baltic Fleet

Admiral Rozhestvensky was trusted by Nicholas II and well known as a capable commander.

Staff officer, when can we conquer Port Arthur?

How would I know?

But as long as Port Arthur is in Russia's hands, we can't move from here.

If the Baltic Fleet comes before Port Arthur falls, what will happen?

Do you think we can fight?

It's taking a long time to defeat Port Arthur.

They promised to complete the mission by August.

It is a difficult fight.

But Admiral, almost every single ship needs to be repaired...

We also need to give all our crews some rest.

What is the Army doing?

Are they thinking about the Navy at all?

Staff officer.

Let us send some of our gunnery units to the Army.

But we've already sent some...

Send as many as we can manage.

We cannot just let Nogi and his troops die.

Yes, Sir.

The White Sash Unit shall defeat the enemy base around the 4th cannon site at Mount Shoju.

Then advance to the Yokato and south upland...

...and if possible, capture Mount Hakugyoku. That is the mission.

At this fortress which the Russians think is invincible...

...we've been charging and losing a lot of our fellow soldiers.

Now...

...with your strong resolution...

I'm truly proud that this White Sash Unit was formed.

I assume that you are ready to not come back alive.

With your minds rock solid, I hope that you carry out the mission.

Now, let us turn around to the Imperial Palace.

Do you have a family?

Yes. Mother and a younger brother. Sir.

Did you tell them that you were chosen to this death squad?

Yes, sir. I mailed to them, sir. But...

What is it? What do you have on your mind?

Don't be reluctant to speak.

Yes, Sir.

My family is very poor.

My mother is sick, and my brother is still in third grade.

You were the only one to work?

Yes, Sir.

Therefore, beside my salary, I washed my fellows' shirts for a cent for each shirt...

...and saved every cent I made.

But we soldiers cannot send money to Japan.

That's banned by regulations.

But I hope I can send this money to my family.

If I don't, my family is going to be in trouble.

What is your rank?

Yes Sir, I am Junior Infantry, Maeyama Sankichi.

All right. Maeyama...

I'll take that money.

I promise that I will send this money to your mother.

Thank you very much, Sir. I appreciate it.

Sir, it's time to leave.

Yes.

White Sash Unit, prepare to depart!

Bid farewell to the General!

Bow!

Turn right!

Go!

We are fighting with our full ability now.

Yet, Port Arthur is still steady.

Highness, I suggest we change the commander of the Third Army.

Your Highness.

Do you believe in Nogi that strongly?

General, please!

They're aiming at you, General!

General, do you want to die?

Are you going to let the enemy kill you?

You dying won't change the situation, sir. Please stop.

General, we have Admiral Togo visiting.

He came from Dalian and he's waiting at headquarters.

General Nogi.

Hello.

General Nogi, I've heard that two of your sons have died in battle.

Yes. I hope they had honorable deaths for our country.

Please, Admiral Togo.

I assume that the Navy's in trouble...

...since we haven't taken Port Arthur yet.

Well, but it seems you are about to defeat them now.

I'm very sorry. I apologize.

No. I know that you've been doing your best.

We are thankful for that. Honestly.

Admiral Togo...

I've had so many soldiers die.

And yet, we haven't...

Not only here, we Navy have lost many lives too...

Everyone is willing to die for our country, but...

General Nogi, I hear the enemy's fortress is very stout.

May I see it?

Admiral, yourself?

Certainly.

I see.

It is as difficult as I heard.

Admiral Togo, I was told that those binoculars were made in Germany.

Yes. They are very high-quality. Here.

General Nogi, there are many ships sunk in the port.

Yes. That's because we've borrowed the Navy's cannon.

Well, cannon don't fire by themselves.

It's men who fire those cannon.

There are Army guns, too, right?

General Nogi, if the cannon hit a target perfectly, that's all man's credit.

Yes.

General Nogi, is there any message from you for your wife?

For Shizuko?

Yes. I'm relieved today to find the enemy's vessels sunk in the port.

I've decided to send our ships and crews back to Japan to let them have some rest.

I will also return to Japan for a short while with our flagship, Mikasa.

Everything will be fine.

General Nogi, I understand your trouble and weariness, but for our country...

I will count on you.

Yes. With your word, I can carry this out.

I will carry this out.

The Main Fleet had no choice but to go back to Japan for repairs, resupply...

...and rest before the Baltic Fleet showed up.

For that reason, Togo went to see Port Arthur...

But moreover, today, Nogi and Togo understood each other perfectly.

Captain, we were heavily damaged.

Yes, sir.

When I suppose if the cannon shells we used were made with Shimose gunpowder...

That ship would be sunk deep in the ocean right now.

The gunpowder would cause a fire, and collapse the upper structure...

...so consequently, the ship would have no ability to fight.

Is this the meaning of "the believer will be saved" saying that you use?

No, when I say "the believer will be saved"...

I mean "to be modest even after a victory in a battle."

It is?

Namely, it's the people who fight...

But there is a limit to human ability.

So, what I mean by that phrase is that modesty is needed to win a battle...

So...

Admiral...

At Libau port, the Russians are organizing the Third Pacific Squadron under Rear Admiral Nebogatov.

If that is true, their naval strength will be even more enormous.

Where did you hear that?

From Colonel Akashi in Stockholm, sir.

Stockholm

I think so.

If you're not ready for death, no one can ever take your job.

It's been a while.

Hirose, who said he would survive, has died already...

...and I'm here still alive.

Hirose once told me a story...

...which he heard from the Boss of Shimizu, that a fight is over in a moment;

Just to stare in the opponent's eyes, and if he moves, spring onto him.

That's it.

However, my job isn't quite like that.

I see that your job requires much endurance without being recognized.

Spying on the enemy's operations...

...and assisting revolutionary groups within Russia.

Increasing the opposition within Russia will work advantageously for Japan.

Colonel Akashi, isn't it comfortable to work here in Sweden?

Since the Swedes are in favor of the Japanese.

But I still need to go out to other areas of Europe in order to collect information.

For now, information on the Baltic Fleet.

Colonel Akashi...

Because of the alliance between Japan and Britain...

...Russian ships are unable to sail through the Suez Canal.

Hence...

They would have to go like this.

The passage after that, and how many days it takes for them to arrive in the East.

I imagine Admiral Togo is eager to know that information.

It's time. In case I don't come back, please take care of her.

The person with Akashi is Siriusk, from one of the Russian revolutionary groups.

Today, Siriusk provided Akashi much information about Kokasasu movement...

...and Poland's standby military.

Akashi in exchange gave money to Siriusk for Russian revolutionary politicians.

Siriusk introduced Akashi to a Russian officer, who needed money to free his wife.

Akashi decided to make a deal with this officer for information on the Baltic Fleet.

As I just said...

The Baltic Fleet is coming...

...which is a great opportunity for us.

Togo and I both think so, and we've waited a long time for this.

But, when and where will we confront the Baltic Fleet?

As for that matter...

We will gather as much information as we can, which we'll study and analyze thoroughly.

We will come up with the best plan.

Though, the enemy will do the same thing as thoroughly as we do.

So, we cannot be sure if they will do as we expect.

What if they outwit us?

We can do nothing then.

We can do nothing?

We need to leave that kind of anxiety out, otherwise our fleets won't work effectively.

Only we have immovable resolution.

Your Highness, we will shatter the Baltic fleet completely.

You were very bold, Admiral.

You said, "We will beat them" instead of "We can beat them".

Did I?

If you fail, you'll be "relieved of duty."

By the way, it is a problem that Port Arthur is still there.

I'm not worried about that.

What?

General Nogi will take care of that.

Fire! Fire!

203 Meter Hill

Celebrate! Port Arthur has fallen!

But the war wasn't over yet.

Paris

Really, Lenin did say that?

Yes.

The fall of Port Arthur would accelerate the downfall of the Russian empire, so this war is a big step.

Yes. So, Colonel Akashi, you do understand.

No, I don't.

Then, here.

I met Lenin in Geneva. I noticed that he had an urge to buy anything he wanted.

He said to himself that he was a spendthrift.

Really? He doesn't have money in his pocket.

He said, from time to time, his mother sent some money to him...

...and also he wanted to watch a musical with his mother in Moscow.

By the way, the money to buy the Shojugomanjo in Finland...

The Japanese government will pay you, instead.

Seriously?

Absolutely. When shall I give you the money?

Here, at 8 o'clock tonight.

I will bring two more comrades.

Understood.

But Colonel Akashi, Japan has to slow down in winning this war.

How come?

We are not yet ready for a revolution.

I see.

The revolutionary power in Russia is split into many groups.

You'd better start uniting into one.

And... make sure you give me as much information of the Baltic Fleet as you can.

Yes. I will.

Also, be careful not to be followed by the Russian military police.

I've heard that they are here in Paris too.

Yes. I'm sure I'm not followed.

He escaped through the window!

On February 14, 1905...

The Russian Second Pacific Squadron, led by Admiral Rozhestvensky...

...arrived at Nossi-be, a port in Madagascar, where they were joined by the...

Third Pacific Squadron, under Admiral Nebogatov.

Kuki Privy Counsel Adviser's Office Admiral Togo, the Baltic Fleet seems to be coming to the Pacific and will pass through the Soya channel...

. Admiral Togo, the Baltic Fleet seems to be coming to the Pacific and will pass through the Soya channel...

...to get to Vladivostok.

I heard in the Privy Counsel that the information is from Colonel Akashi in Paris.

What do you think, Admiral Togo?

My belief is different.

I don't think they'll make their way to the Soya channel.

But...

After such a long voyage, I believe their speed will be slowed due to their equipment failures...

...so it is doubtful that they will take a detour.

Besides, there is the matter of fuel.

Then, they're going to come through the Tsushima Straits?

Well, I guess you can't say anything now.

In the first place, it was said that the Baltic Fleet wouldn't come here to the other side of the world.

Nevertheless, I always believed that they would come.

We've figured out that it is feasible for them to come, according to the data we've studied.

According to the data.

Yes.

Admiral Togo...

If the Japanese fleet...

What?

I am reluctant to utter this, but...if...

I've never thought of losing.

That's when Japan will die.

How can I possibly think of it.

Greetings, sir.

Thanks for having me over.

Is it time to go?

Yes.

Hello.

I just put the money in.

I heard.

I don't know where you come from everyday.

Do you live around here?

Not so close by.

Have you gotten a letter from your daughter in the countryside?

Yes, ma'am.

She wrote that all the cows had been taken by the government...

...to be made into canned beef and shipped to soldiers.

But then your daughter can no longer be a farmer.

Exactly.

I guess people who make that canned beef would make good money out of it.

If I remember correctly, your daughter's husband was in the Army?

Yes. My daughter has two small children.

Ma'am, may I offer incense?

Sure. Please.

Ma'am, I hear that Admiral Togo is about to begin an enormous fight.

Yes. Rumor says that Russia's massive fleet is heading for Japan.

So then, there will be many, many more soldiers who die for this war like my son.

Thank you so much.

Ma'am, who is this man, who just offered incense for my son?

Well, he looked quite aged.

Kiku, wait for me!

He seemed to want to say something to you...

...but he couldn't because his heart aches.

Really?

A few days later, the Japanese Fleet gathered their ships at the Chinkai Naval Station and started training.

Good. Really good.

They trained for every situation, such as attacking, counterattacking, night fighting, firing torpedoes.

Every sailor learned all about his equipment.

Togo conducted this training himself.

They used about a year's worth of ammunition in this intense training.

Togo was there all the time, despite rain and wind, along with his lunch box.

This was the first time in Japanese history that an Admiral spent this much time for training.

First, we have to know the names of enemy ships.

Their damn names are so freakish and hard to remember.

The ship in this figure is the battleship called "Knyaz Suvorov".

Remember it as "Kuninooyajiswaro"...

Imagine your fathers saying "let's sit and have some drink".

Okay, say it.

"Kuninooyajiswaro".

Good.

This is the battleship, "Alexander III": "Akiresanta".

"Akiresanta".

This is the battleship "Borodino": "Borodero".

Russians always screw up.

"Borodero"

This is the battleship "Sissoi Veliky": "Usuipriki".

"Usuipriki"

This is the cruiser "Dmitri Donskoy"

"Gomitorikoroske".

This is another cruiser "Izumrud"

"Izumoruzo"

Good.

Frankly, my command will be...

"Aim at Akiresanta!

"Fire!" Do you understand?

Yes, I understand, sir.

Good, then let's go over it again.

What is this?

"Kuninooyajiswaro"

The Flagship "Knyaz Suvorov"

I've been doing a lot of thinking on this matter, and conclusively...

I think that going around to the Pacific and getting to the Soya Channel is the best plan.

If we take a route to the Pacific Ocean...

We ought to pass through the Tsugarul Channel with some firing and bombard the Japanese shore.

I think the best idea is that we should attack Taiwan at once and build a stronghold.

Then, slowly, travel on to Vladivostok.

Meanwhile, with Rear Admiral Kato as the new Chief of Staff...

...as the former officer, Shimamura, became the commander of the 2nd Fleet...

...the Japanese Main Fleet also has been having discussions about the Baltic Fleet.

Well, I've observed a variety of things since I was assigned as Chief of Staff here...

....but this Russian Admiral Rozhestvensky is quite experienced, especially in a war of attrition.

Yes, nonetheless, we haven't heard about the Baltic Fleet for a while.

Since Port Arthur has fallen, some say that the Baltic Fleet turned around and went back to Port Libau.

It would not be reasonable for them to come all the here here since their Port Arthur Fleet has been annihilated.

A couple of weeks ago, they tried to distract us with four fake cruisers right off the coast of Japan.

So, we can never know what they will do.

That's right.

But I get antsy when nothing happens for such a long time.

Is it done?

Long time no see.

Everybody's here. Did I interrupt a meeting?

No, it's just finished.

See you later.

I'm back from setting up 150 mines at Vladivostok.

Thank you.

You seem healthy.

Yes. After we beat the Rurik, with your help, my physical condition has gotten better too.

Please come with me.

Admiral Togo, you seem to be worried about something.

Do I look so?

Your belief that the Baltic Fleet will show up at the Tsushima Straits hasn't been shaken, has it?

No, it hasn't.

Both Soya and Tsugaru are covered by thick fog...

...so it's almost impossible for a large fleet to maneuver through there.

Besides there is a chance for their own ships to collide with one another.

That's true.

There is also the problem of fuel.

Plus, the Baltic Fleet is in a hurry, they won't take an unproductive detour.

My belief is based on all the possible studies.

It is in no way a long shot gamble.

Then, what's the matter?

It's the radio.

A radio?

Yes.

The Japanese radio is still not very stable.

So I'm concerned it won't work well when the Baltic Fleet shows up at the Tsushima Straits.

I see.

I guess anything can be a problem.

But I am quite fortunate.

Yes, unlike me.

Admiral Togo, you'll be all right.

Come in.

Admiral, we've just received a telegram from Colonel Akashi in Paris.

What's it about?

The route of the Baltic Fleet. According to Akashi, it all depends on Rozhestvensky's decision.

I see.

Then, there is no way they are going to come to Tsugaru. Definitely.

Admiral Nebogatov, we've sailed 18,000 nautical miles.

This is historical simply as a record voyage.

Let's avoid night time sailing from now on.

I despise Japanese torpedo boats.

The Japanese are very loyal and not afraid to die, but we have the blessing of the Tsar.

Once we win naval supremacy, it's our game.

The Japanese Fleets are nothing; we will smash them.

We will represent the glory of the Russian empire to the whole world.

Barbarians!

Togo's preparation for this sea war was flawless.

For example, he put six small ships with wooden cannon in the sea south of Taiwan.

They were decoys to deceive the Russians.

In addition, he placed many ships on watch in the sea.

And built about 300 observatories from Chishima to Okinawa, Taiwan, and Korea.

The Cape of Soya And ordered a non-stop watch.

. And ordered a non-stop watch.

The Cape of Erimo

The Cape of Inuboe

The Cape of Ashizuri

The Five Archipelagos of Tamanoura

. However, there was no word of finding the Baltic Fleet.

Nago, 0kinawa However, there was no word of finding the Baltic Fleet.

Nago, 0kinawa However, there was no word of finding the Baltic Fleet.

Yes.

What are you up to?

Admiral, it's already May 25th, and yet, we have no information about the Baltic Fleet

Since we lost track of them on May 14th at the Bay of Kamura.

The distance from the Bay of Kamura to the Tsushima Straits is only 1850 nautical miles.

I'm afraid that...

We are supposed to know by today when and where the Baltic Fleet is traveling.

So what?

Admiral, the data we've studied can be wrong...

and "Believers will be saved" is just to mean "rely on others' help", so...

Staff Officer, We have no choice but to wait.

The Baltic Fleet hasn't disappeared from the sea.

I am not going to change my belief yet.

I understand. I'm sorry to doubt you.

Kato, wait.

I know what you have on your mind.

On May 19th, we received information from the trading ships that were attacked by the Baltic Fleet.

Isn't that so?

Yes, sir.

From that point, you suppose that the Baltic Fleet has gone north to the Tsugaru Straits...

...or through the southwest archipelago and gotten to the Tsushima Straits...

...don't you?

Regardless...

You think that the Baltic Fleet has already reached Vladivostok without being noticed...

...by observatories, whether through the Sea of Japan or the Tsugaru Straits in the dark at night.

You all think so. Isn't that right!?

Admiral.

What is it?

I've never seen you like this.

What?

You, so upset...

Only you. Only you've seen me like this.

Kato, I want you to take this to the captain of each ship.

Yes, sir.

Admiral!?

Why don't you read it out loud?

Now.

Yes, sir.

By May 28th, if the Russian Fleet hasn't appeared...

...all ships will sail immediately at full speed to the Tsugaru Straits.

Admiral, if this really happens, what's going to happen to the Japanese Fleet...

What's going to happen to... Japan?

Are you asking me to say it?

Admiral.

But, in any case, we must do our utmost.

Yes. I will carry this to all ships.

What is the effective day of the order, sir?

I will decide in the next few days.

May 26

Admiral Rozhestvensky ordered the course set to North 50 degrees East.

He rejected other officers' suggestions and decided to make his way through the Tsushima Straits.

The shortest route to Vladivostok.

Hey, what the hell is that?

Is that a haze or clouds?

Where?

Hey, those are ships!

A lot of battleships!

Yeah, they look to me like a number of battleships too, but...

The enemy!.

The enemy!.

Hey, let's go tell the officer at Miyako Island!

All right, let's go!

So, we have huge Russian ships...

...passing right by our island in the northeast direction.

Could it be some kind of mistake?

Well, according to these fishermen here, it's a fact.

But we don't have the means to inform the government.

The closest telegraph office is on Ishigaki Island.

And we have to get there as soon as possible.

It's a long way.

That's right.

It's nice weather today, but the waves are rough.

I know. But we have to send out a boat with some crew.

We don't know if we can get to Ishigaki within 24 hours, or the Russians might find the boat...

...so we have to send the fastest boat on this island.

This is the most urgent matter in Japan now.

Everybody knows that, right?

Who are you?

I'm going to row a boat.

What a curiosity.

I haven't asked for volunteers, yet.

What, are you volunteers, too?

I'm going too.

Wait. This is too many.

The boat can only bear five people.

Hey, why don't you drop this?

You've just gotten married, and she already has a baby in her belly.

So what!? I'm going.

Daring!

What did you come up here for?!

You can't stop me. You can't stop me. Go back.

Stop that! Why are you crying!?

Because I'm happy.

What?

You volunteered to go, so I let you go. It's your decision.

I've never been more proud of you than now.

Really?

I have a wonderful husband.

And I'll tell our baby that his father was very brave.

These brave young men rowed 28 hours non-stop.

. Meanwhile, Shinano Maru was patrolling 30 nautical miles northwest of the Five Island Archipelagos...

2:45AM on the 27th Meanwhile, Shinano Maru was patrolling 30 nautical miles northwest of the Five Island Archipelagos...

...in latitude 33 degrees 10' and longitude E 128 degrees 10'.

Captain, I see something like a light.

Captain, the light seems to be sending a signal to us.

What does it mean...

That's a hospital-ship

They forgot to put their running lights out.

Captain, they mistake us for one of their own ships, so they are sending a signal

Let's deceive them. Turn the ship to port.

Turn the ship to port.

Captain! There!

Captain, that's the Baltic Fleet.

We must radio-telegraph this.

Get closer!.

I don't care if it's dangerous. We must find out where they are heading.

Move at full speed.

Move at full speed!

Ishigaki Island

The telegram from Miyako Island arrived one hour later than that from the Shinano Maru.

I read the telegram.

"Enemy is in square 203", the Shinano Maru.

The Shinano Maru.

Yes, sir.

The Baltic Fleet seems to be heading to the Strait.

I see...

All fleets sortie.

May 27, 6:34 AM, Chinkai Naval Station

After finding the enemy fleet, the Japanese fleets immediately sortied to engage the enemy. There was a clear sky but the waves were high.

The Baltic fleet turned to North 23 degrees East at 12 nautical miles north of Iki.

And headed straight toward Vladivostok.

It was the memorial day of the accession of Nicholas II.

Um... The Admiral's sword is a problem.

It'll wreck the magnetic compass.

But it's the "Ichimonji Yoshifusa" a gift directly from the Crown Prince...

...and he cherishes it as a keepsake.

And it's the day of the key battle.

I wouldn't want to say "Sir, it's a problem".

It's okay, sir.

All we need from the compass is to know the direction of the enemy.

After that, I'll make do with my eyes.

Really, you don't need a compass any longer.

Captain, do you think we can beat half of the enemy?

That's a huge success, if we can beat half of them.

Though, we will lose our half too.

That's right.

What are you talking about, you two?

The Baltic fleet will be obliterated.

We must destroy them totally.

Yes, sir.

Report for the Admiral! The enemy fleet spotted ahead!

Action stations! Action stations!

Everyone, do not leave your place!

The Empire's fate depends on the result of this battle, let every man do his utmost duty.

It was on May 27th, at 1:55.

Admiral, please get into the conning tower.

No, I can't observe well from there.

Admiral, we have to make sure you are safe.

Please go to the tower.

No, here is fine. Here is fine.

But there is no bullet shield here.

Admiral, you're too important.

You men are more important.

You are young, so we need you to serve our country for a long time.

You should get into the tower. I'll stay here.

At this point, the distance from the enemy ships was 8000 meters.

When everyone was waiting for the order to fire...

Captain, left rudder.

Left rudder?

Left rudder!.

Left rudder!.

Admiral Togo ordered the fleet to turn across the course of the Russians, "crossing the T"...

...showing the broadsides of the ships to the enemy.

So that while the Russian fleet could only shoot the forward main guns of the leading ships...

Togo's fleet could use all their main guns and half of the secondary batteries of every ship.

The enemy ships did not miss this opportunity and started firing at once.

Togo knew from the lesson he learned in the opening sea battle...

...that it would be impossible to catch them again if he let them slip away.

We haven't fired yet?

No, we haven't gotten the order from the Admiral yet.

But...

Probably when we get to positions nearer the enemy ships...

Not yet, sir?

Calm down. We'll receive the order to fire soon.

Yes, sir.

What's the distance from the enemy?

7500 meters!

Not yet?

Distance?

7000 meters.

Distance now

6400 meters.

It's time. Start firing!

2:10 PM

Fire!

2nd cannon ready!. - Fire!

Hurry and put out the fire.

Aim and fire at the Mikasa!

The barrage of the Baltic Fleet only made a number of high water splashes.

Eventually, they lost count of which water splash was which target, and couldn't adjust their sights.

Meanwhile, the Japanese ships were communicating by signals, informing each other's positions.

4-5-0

Distance 4500 meters, start firing.

Distance 4500 meters.

The 1st Fleet, turn left in succession.

The 1st Fleet, turn left in succession.

Command! The 1st Fleet, turn left in succession.

Left rudder!.

Admiral, are you still not going into the conning tower?

No.

Admiral! Are you all right?

If I'm to die, I'll die regardless of where I am.

The Japanese orders were for all ships to turn around...

...and block any Russian ship trying to escape to Vladivostok.

The range is too long! Make a correction!

The Baltic Fleet was using black gunpowder...

...after five or six salvos, they were covered in thick smoke and had to wait until it became clear to fire.

. they were covered in thick smoke and had to wait until it became clear to fire.

Hey, are you all right?

Some battleship is firing.

It's the Knyaz Suvorov!

Fire!

We got it!

The Five Archipelagos

What happened?

I went up to the deck to help wounded crewmen.

Help me. This gun is still working! Let's shoot!

Yes, sir!. aim at...

...the Oslyabya! Fire!

We got it!

The Alexander is next!

Fire!

Fire!

The Japanese Fleets' intense training paid off.

And the Shimose gun powder also had an enormous effect.

The Russian ships were in disarray from the Japanese ships' barrage.

The Oslyabya and Knyaz Suvorov were set ablaze and broke off the battle line.

The Oslyabya was sunk, and the Knyaz Suvorov attempted to flee.

The fierce battle lasted almost half an hour...

...both fleets were fighting in a tight area of 2400 - 2600 meters...

...and in the Japanese fleet, Asama became unable to remain in the battle.

You take command and conduct the battle.

Hurry the repairs!

Togo brought torpedo boats and destroyers for night battle...

...and gathered all other ships by Utsuyo Island.

Thirty three ships of the Baltic Fleet were either sunk or wrecked.

The battleships Nikolai I, Orel, Apraxin, and Senyavin were soon surrounded by the Japanese Fleet.

We surrender.

Admiral, they have surrendered.

That one is Nikolai I, which Nebogatov should be aboard.

I know.

Admiral, Nebogatov has surrendered.

Shall we stop firing?

Why not, sir?

We must show mercy. Please stop firing...

No. That ship hasn't surrendered yet.

But...

They haven't stopped the ship yet. It's still moving forward.

Stop the ship!

The Japanese Fleet lost only three torpedo boats, with 117 killed and 500 wounded.

They lost no other ships.

40 nautical miles southwest of Utsuyo Island Rozhestvensky was saved by the Russian destroyer Byedovy and survived.

. Rozhestvensky was saved by the Russian destroyer Byedovy and survived.

But the destroyer was eventually found by Japanese destroyers that were patrolling the area.

Admiral, we are being chased by Japanese destroyers, and we cannot possibly escape from them.

What should we do?

You should do what you think is right without considering me.

What will you do with it?

I'll use this to surrender.

Are you surrendering? No!

Have the engines stopped?

We are already in the custody of the Japanese destroyers Sazanami and Kagero...

And soon, the Japanese will come for you, sir.

This is Admiral Rozhestvensky.

He looks seriously injured. Can you tell me if we can move him?

No, we can't move him now.

He's bleeding badly, we have to take time and care for him here.

I see. Then I'll go back to the ship and send a radio-telegraph. Take care of the rest.

How long did it take for them to float all the way here?

I have no idea, but he arrived here by some kind of destiny or fate.

I don't think you wanted to come though...

Now everyone, please, to the temple.

He couldn't sleep well for a few days, but he's fine now.

He would like to see you, sir.

Here.

Oh, please don't. Please stay comfortable.

Admiral Togo.

We have received a reply from the Russian Emperor to the report that you sent.

Losing the battle was unfortunate.

But, thankfully, you have survived the battle, and I am honored by your loyalty. God shall bless you.

What is his condition?

His right shoulder has been fractured, and the bleeding from his forehead has been critical.

But he's getting better.

What about his meals?

For that, we have invited a Russian cook from Nagasaki.

I see. You've been doing quite a good job.

Admiral, he's saying that he's very grateful to you for sending the telegram.

And he's asking, how Admiral Nebogatov's doing?

Admiral Nebogatov is now in Kyoto, and he's quite fine.

I want you to tell him that...

Yes.

I am truly surprised by the skill and spirit of the Russians that sailed the largest fleet in the world 18,000 miles.

And I heard that the battleship Suvorov was ordered not to pull down the ship's flag...

...as long as they could fight.

That is exactly the same spirit that we Japanese have.

The Admiral says he's not at all ashamed of losing a battle against somebody like you.

I guess this is an inconvenient situation for you, but please rest here well and peacefully.

Thank you.

Admiral, here is a congratulatory gift from the Naval Minister, Yamamoto.

What beautiful flowers.

Prince Ito, the protruding nail will be hammered down.

If Japan becomes a substantially strong county and puts all Asian countries under control...

Would America or Britain be our next enemy?

It's America!

You think Japan will fight against America?

Yes I do.

Prince Ito, that's why from now on, we have to prepare for that time.

After the huge victory in the Battle in the Sea of Japan...

...he started casting his eyes down and slouching his body a bit...

...as if he were afraid of being seen or standing out.

It is the figure of a man who learned true fear while summoned to battle and achieving victory.

Now, what's overflowing in his heart is the fear of the fact that he won a battle...

...are the thoughts that war is dreadful, even to win.

A man, who's solely being afraid and solely did his job and who made history...

His name is Heihachiro Togo.

Translated by Koichiro