Original subtitles

Submitted to the 1978 Arts Festival

TOEI COMPANY LTD.

270 years ago. The Genroku Period.

Under the dictatorship of the 5th Shogun, Tsunayoshi,

the Tokugawa Shogunate was at its pinnacle of unprecedented supremacy.

The assets of 48 feudal lords had been seized...

stripping 30,004 samurai of all of their possessions.

Still, not a single soul sought revenge against the powerful shogunate.

And, on this day, March 14, 1702,

in the presence of the Emperor's envoy,

Tsunayoshi was presented with the Imperial Sword.

FALL OF AKO CASTLE (AKO-JO DANZETSU) (SWORDS OF VENGEANCE)

A Production of Toei Company, Ltd.

Produced by Tan Takaiwa Goro Kusakabe

Tatsuo Honda Keizo Mimura

Written by Koji Takada

Cinematography by Hanjiro Nakazawa

Art Direction by Norimichi Iikawa

Lighting Designer Haruo Nakayama

Edited by Isamu Ichida Music by Toshiaki Tsushima

STARRING

Kinnosuke Yorozuya

Shinichi "Sonny" Chiba

Hiroki Matsukata

Teruhiko Saigo

Tsunehiko Watase

Masaomi Kondo

Mieko Harada

Kensaku Morita Ryo Tamura

Tetsuro Tamba

Go Wakabayashi Kyoko Enami

Mikio Narita Yoshi Kato Tatsuro Endo

Shoji Yasui Hideji Otaki

Takuya Fujioka Nobuo Kaneko

Shinsuke Ashida

Yoshiko Mita

Mariko Okada

Toshiro Mifune

Directed by Kinji Fukasaku

HALL OF PINES, EDO CASTLE

That'll be all.

Lord Asano.

- Kajikawa. - Sir?

What were you and Asano speaking of?

Sir. We were discussing my meeting with the Emperor's envoy...

on behalf of Lord Tsunayoshi's mother following the presentation...

of the Imperial Sword.

I see.

If it is on behalf of our lord's mother, I shall serve as intermediary.

But, sir, Lord Asano has already committed to serving as intermediary.

- Asano? - Yes, sir.

That won't do! He doesn't know a thing!

Asano, don't...

I wonder, how much did he pay to acquire this role?

Does he have a bad memory? Or is it just that he's not observant?

Even during the ceremonies today, he had us holding our breaths,

praying that he wouldn't embarrass himself.

Lord Tsunayoshi will be making his appearance shortly!

The forecastle has been cleared!

He will be appearing shortly!

Kajikawa, are we clear?

You cannot rely on Asano.

I want to be clear on that.

If there are any oversights when it comes to our lord's mother,

the damage will be irreparable.

Kira! Die, you bastard!

Feel the wrath of my anger!

Lord Asano, you mustn't! You are in the castle!

Let go! Let go of me!

Kira, you bastard! Come here!

Lord Kira! Lord Kira!

Let go of me! Let go!

Somebody has drawn his sword!

A sword?

Calm down! Calm down!

Calm! Stay calm!

Lord Asano, I implore you! Please compose yourself!

Take your hands off of me! I beg you!

It cannot be undone!

I, too, am the master of my own castle! I am aware of the consequences!

Let go! Please, let me go!

My lord!

What has happened to my master?

Is everyone safe?

I am Yasube Horibe, disciple of Lord Asano!

I demand to know if my master is safe!

Can anybody tell me if my master is safe?!

Calm down! Calm down!

Lord Takuminokami Asano has been charged with...

drawing his sword on Lord Kozukenosuke Kira!

- Where is my master?! - Be quiet!

A thorough investigation will take place within the castle shortly.

Neither of the two has been critically wounded.

I urge you not to jump to any conclusions!

Let me through!

I am Gengoemon Kataoka, disciple of Lord Asano!

Please let me see him! I demand to see my master!

What?

Asano drew his sword?

Yes, sire.

I am afraid it is true.

We are awaiting the results of an investigation.

In the meantime, a replacement for the intermediary must be appointed.

Who would you like to appoint?

- I'll leave that up to you. - Yes, sire.

What did that idiot do on this most important day?

Make sure Asano is severely punished!

There is no need for a trial! Punish him at once!

Yes, sire.

ASANO MANSION IN EDO

Daigaku, what is this urgent business?

Sister, a terrible thing has happened.

Tell me what has happened.

My brother drew his sword on Lord Kira inside the castle!

Our lord drew his sword?

- Are you certain this is true? - Yes, I'm afraid it is.

And, our lord, is he safe?

He is unhurt.

And Lord Kira? Did he die at the hands of our master?

I have not yet heard.

I thought it best to inform you of the little I already knew.

I cannot believe...

In your beloved brother's most desperate time,

how could you not check on the well-being of Lord Kira?

You have dishonored yourself.

I have no words to express my regret!

Sister...

I have no excuse.

Daigaku, you must return to Edo Castle at once...

and check on our master's situation as well as Lord Kira's well-being.

Then, send the news to Ako at once!

You need not worry about me.

By the order of the Shogun...

we have been appointed to investigate your actions on this day.

I am obligated to proceed on behalf of our lord.

I submit.

Asano, after being appointed intermediary for the Emperor's envoy,

you drew your sword on Kira, disregarding your being in the castle.

Explain yourself. Leave nothing out.

Yes, sir.

I was humiliated by a cascade of insults...

directed my way by Lord Kira which completely exhausted my patience.

I was unable to suppress my anger.

However, my acting out of spite...

and my disregard of my role and surroundings is shameful beyond belief.

I cannot find the words to express my deep regret to Lord Tsunayoshi.

And, what were these "insults" that exhausted your patience?

I no longer wish to comment on that.

Why not? It would be to your advantage if you did.

Anything that I say at this point...

will only sound like an excuse.

But...

But...

But what?

The tip...

The tip of my blade slashed only a few inches...

Those few inches have ruined me. For that I am completely remorseful.

I only wish...

I only wish I had been able to finish the job and take Kira's life!

I, too, am a warrior.

My own shortcomings...

My own shortcomings having failed me is something that I cannot bear.

Honestly, I do not have a clue as to why I am the object of his ill will.

It is nothing more than pure madness.

It's been known to show its ugly face

during the budding season of early spring.

What does he mean, he had a grudge against me?

What have I done to deserve such dishonor?

And, when Asano swung his sword at you

how did you defend yourself?

How, you ask?

I do not make a habit of fighting lunatics!

Twice a sword was swung at you.

Yet you did not attempt to draw yourself?

Of course not!

We are in our lord's home in the midst of a ceremony.

The thought of drawing my sword in the castle never crossed my mind.

Sir.

I have a message from Lord Tsunayoshi. He sends his sympathy to Lord Kira.

Lord Yanagisawa also requests that you resolve this issue quickly.

Thank you.

The results of the investigation have been reported to Lord Tsunayoshi.

His decision is as follows:

As for you, Kozukenosuke Kira.

You are commended for your mindfulness...

in not drawing your sword in defense within the castle

despite the vicious assault directed at you.

You are found free of guilt.

Feel free to stay as long as it takes for your wounds to heal...

before returning home.

Yes, sir.

As for you, Takuminokami Asano.

Your blatant disregard of your surroundings...

in selfishly drawing your sword is absolutely inexcusable.

You are hereby sentenced to immediate death by hara-kiri...

at the home of Ukyodayu Tamura.

I submit.

Wait! Wait, I beg you!

Asano is the master of an affluent rice producing clan.

A sentence of death handed down so quickly seems rash.

How dare you! This is the order of the Shogun!

I am aware, sir.

But there are two parties involved here.

It is our obligation to conduct a further investigation.

Moreover, Kira, the other party,

should also be subject to some form of punishment for his behavior.

You are out of line, Okado!

Our lord has spoken! The verdict is final!

Members of the council,

with all due respect, please hear me out.

In my initial interview of Asano,

he conducted himself in a gentle manner,

leading me to believe that he is not insane.

And, according to the samurai code established in the Kamakura Period,

if there is a fight among two people, both parties are to be punished.

This verdict is completely one-sided. It blurs the path of righteousness.

The results of your investigation show that Kira didn't reach for his sword.

Therefore, this particular incident cannot be viewed as a fight.

A fight between warriors is a matter of kill or be killed.

Seeing a warrior intent on killing an enemy,

it is natural to draw one's sword.

On the other hand,

if you declare that Kira's behavior is acceptable,

you are allowing cowardly samurai

to roam the streets with their heads held high.

You are addressing your superiors!

Your insubordination will not be tolerated!

I am an official who investigates the truth.

If righteousness is compromised,

even by order of the Shogun, our integrity is compromised.

I strenuously urge the council to allow further investigation.

With all sincerity.

Lord Yanagisawa, what is your opinion?

Okado's opinion seems to be not completely void of merit.

Ultimately, it is a matter of our young associate's incompetence.

You call it youth and incompetence?

Those who work for the Tokugawa Shogunate,

must realize that our lord's word is final and just.

We must never forget that.

With all due respect, the Shogun is human.

He is not immune to making mistakes.

Shut your mouth!

It is not possible for our lord to make a mistake!

I shall address this council once and for all.

I order you to carry out the verdict as it has been explained to you.

Yes, sir.

If you please, sirs.

One Gengoemon Kataoka, a disciple of Asano,

has asked to see his master one last time.

How shall I handle him?

Hm, I don't...

No, we are obligated to consider the feelings of Asano's disciples.

I, Dempachiro Okado,

will show my compassion and allow this meeting.

Yes, sir.

My lord!

Oh...

My lord!

Thank you for coming.

I would have liked to have time to explain what happened,

but, as it turns out, there will be no opportunity for that.

Sir, it is time.

If I told you what happened today,

I am sure that you would feel that I betrayed you.

I'm sorry...

Toda.

My lady?

Has the time come?

Yes, my lady.

You may begin.

Yes, my lady.

AKO CASTLE IN BANSHU Nobody within the Asano Clan

was yet aware of the turn of events in Edo.

700 kilometers separate Edo and Ako.

Even for the non-stop express palanquins of the time,

the trip still took four days.

Dear,

you should be getting ready soon.

Uh-huh.

You do not want to offend anybody by showing up late for the wedding.

I know.

Father!

Father, an express palanquin has just arrived from Edo.

What? An express palanquin?

The couriers should be arriving at the front gate presently.

Wait.

- When did the couriers leave Edo? - I believe they said on the 14th.

The 14th?

What is the matter?

Chikara, take this package to Hashimoto's home.

Yes, sir.

- To the castle. Get me ready. - Yes, sir.

- Ihei! - Sir?

I thought all you knew was how to cook for our master,

but apparently you were also adept at finding a suitor for your daughter.

I, Kurobe Ono, am thoroughly impressed!

You, sir, are too kind. Please, have a drink.

Your new son-in-law here, he's going to become a great man one day.

I guess having a pretty daughter has its advantages!

Your wife in heaven must be very happy.

I'm sure.

Hold it, hold it!

That sound...

It's the castle's drum! Let's go!

The peace of Ako was instantly disrupted.

And, a few hours later...

a second palanquin brought the earth shattering news.

- Left, right. Left, right... - They're here! They're here!

Well done, men!

Hara, you must be exhausted!

Hara!

Is this Ako Castle? Are you certain this is our castle?

Get a hold of yourself! This is Ako!

Where is the Chief Councilor?

- Is the Chief Councilor... - He is awaiting your arrival.

Chief Councilor...

Soemon...

Good work.

So, what do you have for me?

Our Lord...

Come on, man! Out with it!

Yes, sir.

Our Lord Asano, on the eve of the 14th, at the home of Ukyodayu Tamura,

was sentenced to immediate death by hara-kiri!

Hara-kiri?

It was also ordered that all of Lord Asano's assets...

be handed over to the Shogunate and the Asano name be abolished!

Abolished?

The mansion in Edo must be vacated immediately.

His widow was ordered to cut her hair and take the new name Yozein.

She has already returned to her parental home!

How in hell could this have happened?!

And, how is Lord Kira doing?

He sustained only a small cut...

and escaped all punishment.

Escaped...

all punishment?

Yes, sir.

What kind of sentence is that? How could it be so one-sided?

Quiet!

This is not the place for subordinates to voice their naive opinions!

Stand up! Everyone, stand up!

Please, sir!

You are absolutely right. But, sir, this is extremely important to all of us.

Please give us some latitude!

And...

did he leave a will?

Yes, sir.

I, Gengoemon Kataoka, was finally able to see our master.

"I would have liked to explain what happened...

"but there was simply no opportunity.

"I suppose you will think that I have betrayed you.

"I'm sorry," he said...

He said...

that he was "sorry"?

Yes, sir.

And, what else?

On this, he wrote his final poem.

"Invited by the wind,

"like a withered flower...

"I become...

"but a trace of spring."

"I become...

"but a trace of spring"...

Soemon. Good work.

You may retire and rest yourself.

- Somebody give him a hand. - Yes, sir.

Come with us, sir.

My lord...

Oishi, we must act at once.

At a time like this, the townspeople could riot.

Please give your orders immediately.

My orders?

Such as closing off routes to the castle...

or reinforcing troops. To stop any disturbance.

If we were to do that, it would cause even more unrest.

Why?

I would like to ask all of you to cash in all of your paychecks.

Our paychecks?

Chief Councilor, this is not the time to worry about money.

In a crisis like this, the first thing the townspeople worry about is money.

It is important, first and foremost, to ease that anxiety.

- Okajima. - Sir?

You are the accountant. Get things moving at once.

Yes, sir.

Chief Councilor.

Sir, with all due respect, what will happen to this castle?

If the Asano family name is abolished and all its assets are seized,

will the castle also be taken away?

Sir, do you intend to stand by and allow that to happen?

Impossible! This castle has always been home only to the brave.

We will not stand by and let that happen!

Sir, please give us your orders. Barricade the castle!

Barricade the castle!

Hold it! Don't be stupid! Calm yourselves!

Sir, your opinion, if you would.

With regard to that,

I cannot make a decision yet.

Why is that, sir?

There are 300 samurai here. Figure in their family members,

and the number of those affected is 3,000.

I cannot decide their fate so hastily.

However, I will tell you this:

Everything that we do from here on out,

will be scrutinized throughout all of Japan.

Whether we live or we die,

I, Kuranosuke Oishi, hope that whatever we do,

we do not become the laughingstock of the country!

Our lord, moments away from his death,

said he was... "sorry."

It was our master's final thought, I'm sure.

News of the dissolution of the Ako soon made its way to the townspeople

causing extensive panic.

Calm down! Calm down!

Your paychecks are good! There is nothing to worry about!

There is plenty to go around! Get in line and wait your turn!

If you don't settle down, you'll have to deal with my sword!

I said to get in line, you fools!

There's plenty! Don't panic!

Calm yourselves! Get in line!

In addition, rumors of Oishi and his men...

barricading the castle had begun to spread,

as former Asano clansmen and their relatives...

stormed the gate of Ako Castle demanding work.

I am Tokubei, a former disciple.

I would like to speak with the Chief Councilor!

The Chief Councilor is extremely busy at the moment!

Everybody, please be calm!

I am a former disciple of our master. I'm here to offer my services!

Me, too! Tell the Chief Councilor we're here!

- Chief Councilor! - He is too busy to see anyone!

Please leave the premises!

I beg you, please go home!

Hey!

Fuwa! Aren't you Kazuemon Fuwa?

You came, too?

Unbelievable! Those bastards in there won't even give us a chance to help!

They're all good-for-nothing bureaucrats!

Hey, where are you going?

This will take a while. All this fuss is making me hungry.

Out of the way! Out of the way!

I am Mondo Ueda, Chief Councilor of Geishu.

My master, Lord Akinokami, has sent me on his behalf.

I demand that you open the gate. Open it! Open it!

Oishi.

I assume you read the letter from Lord Akinokami.

Yes, sir.

If there is any disturbance from the disciples of Ako,

the entire Asano family, its servants and their families...

will be punished severely.

I assume this was made clear in the letter from my master.

Yes, sir.

Then what is this defiance in giving up the castle to the Shogunate?

Explain to me why Omura has told me...

that you alone are resisting this takeover.

There is a reason that I cannot relinquish the castle submissively.

What is this reason?

I believe the verdict handed down for my master was one-sided and unjust.

How dare you!

The verdict was one-sided and unjust.

That it is the collective opinion of our clan...

and the reason we refuse to hand over the castle so easily.

We believe our actions are just.

You fools!

If Lord Asano had not gone mad, none of this would ever have happened!

It was his decision, Oishi!

Regardless, all future decisions of the Ako Clan...

will be made collectively by its disciples.

With all due respect, for the time being, we will not require your direction.

Are you saying that you are ready to take on the world alone?

Are you insane?

Do you intend to barricade this castle with only a few hundred men?

You will not last a single day!

You'll be branded as lunatics, just like your master!

You will become the laughingstock of the country!

With all due respect, the Asano family has ruled this castle since it was built.

It was built by the people of Ako. It is the product of our sweat and blood.

If the Shogunate so chooses, although we know we are outmatched,

we will go down with our castle.

We believe that is the true samurai spirit.

That's it, Oishi!

If that is your position then consider our ties severed!

When the time comes, I shall be first in line to take your life!

You can count on it! Don't bother! As of today we are enemies!

We'll see ourselves out!

Oishi!

What are you thinking?

Right now, our concern is to get Lord Daigaku ready to take over.

We cannot afford to upset our allies.

I beg you, sir.

Please announce that we will relinquish the castle immediately.

If we do that, the Shogunate will surely be merciful!

If we barricade the castle and fight, not only your men and their families,

but the entire town, thousands, will be subject to the wrath of the Shogun!

To tell you the truth, that is what is troubling me the most.

Do any of you have any good ideas?

Let's get to the point. The worst thing to do is to barricade the castle.

Relinquishing it would be best for all. Well, even that may not be enough...

We may need to ask the Shogun to allow Lord Daigaku...

to take over the Asano name.

Even if it costs us our lives, it is our duty to our master.

Follow our master to the grave.

Interesting... There was that road, wasn't there?

No, no, no! You needn't come to that conclusion so quickly!

I only meant that giving up our lives is one way, not the only way, to be heard!

There's no need to take our own lives!

Let's not make any foolish decisions.

Your input has been most helpful. Excuse me.

Wait, uh... No, let me... Don't...

Ono!

What in the hell were you thinking?

What if he decides to "follow our master to the grave"?

Shut up!

I'm through! You guys decide!

- Wait! Wait, Ono! - Ono!

- Hurry! Hurry! - Yes, sir.

- Just leave that chest! - Yes, sir.

I'll only need the durable sik kimonos.

You got it? Make it quick.

- You didn't forget anything did you? - No, sir. Everything is here.

- You forgot my grandchild! - I'm terribly sorry.

- What are you doing? - Father!

Did you arrange for a boat?

Okuno and Okabayashi fled with their families a few moments ago.

- What did you say? - And there is not a single boat left!

- Unbelievable! Those cowards! - What should we do?

Idiot! If we can't get a boat, use a wagon!

Hurry up!

Minister.

- Who the hell invited you in here? - Minister, are you fleeing?

I'm not fleeing. I'm just sick of Oishi's madness.

- Madness? - That's right.

Oishi is a complete lunatic!

Talking about barricading the castle and giving up our lives...

I won't sacrifice my beautiful grand- children and family for that madman!

You men should also leave. Now, out of my way.

Minister! You said there was a mistake in my ledger...

during the last accounting audit.

Indeed, 300-ryo in cash is missing.

300-ryo? I have no idea...

- Open up that safe! - It wasn't me!

It's got to be Okuno or Okabayashi. Seize them. They can't have gone far.

- I ordered you to open up that safe! - You insolent bastard!

Do you actually believe I could do such a despicable thing?

How dare you!

You dirty bastard! I'll take care of you!

Get out of my way!

Come here!

Calm down! Calm down!

Get out of my way!

Okajima, wait!

Hashimoto!

Did you see Ono?

- There's something more urgent. - What is it?

My father-in-law committed hara-kiri.

What?

Father!

He followed our lord to the grave.

He left his master a meal...

So hasty...

Mid-April. Armies led by Lords Awaji...

and Higonokami made their way to the border of Ako

to relay the order that the castle be relinquished by the 19th.

Hey, Fuwa!

It's too late! Ako Castle is about to fall!

Those cowards are taking about not barricading and committing hara-kiri!

- Hara-kiri? - Yeah. They say it's the last resort.

There's nothing we can do. I can't take it anymore!

I'm going to rid myself of these swords and become a farmer!

- You should pack up and leave, too. - Farewell.

Sir Fuwa?

I am Oishi's son, Chikara.

May I have a minute of your time?

How do you know my name?

My father told me. He said you were the top swordsman of our clan.

That you were banished by Lord Asano for killing a man.

It was youthful enthusiasm.

Could you teach me the etiquette of hara-kiri?

I'm ashamed to say that I don't know it.

Chikara, how old are you?

Fourteen, sir.

Fourteen...

I'm ready.

I want to perform it honorably so as to not shame my father.

Well, obviously, I've never done it myself...

The thing is to not think about it too much.

It is much easier for us men to die, than it is to eat and live.

Sorry...

Did you call for me, sir?

It's finished.

It's beautiful!

Ono kept pestering me to draw it,

but he seems to have disappeared. What am I to do?

What is Chikara up to?

He's getting ready.

He's becoming more and more of a man each day.

Much more of an adult than I.

Is this really the end? Must we really bid farewell?

I don't know.

It's been a long time, sir.

Chikara, what are you doing here?

My father brought me. It's nice to see you again, sir.

- You are? - I am Emoshichi Yato.

I came on behalf of my sick father. It is my first visit to the castle.

How old are you?

Sixteen, sir.

We are all grateful for your contribution.

You may go.

Horibe!

Back from Edo?

Yeah. We heard the castle was being barricaded, so we rushed back.

- What is going on? - Let me explain.

- What? Following our master? - That can't be!

Yasubei!

What is going on, sir?

It's been decided by the Chief Councilor.

I don't know if I approve, but I won't disgrace myself here.

Well, well...

Look who's here.

Welcome home.

You must be exhausted, but they're about to get started.

- Please take your seats. - This way.

We are ready, sir.

Those who are in agreement

are present and accounted for. There are 56 men total.

Everyone, please raise your heads.

Please raise your heads.

Since our master's death, of his 300 disciples,

some have chosen to flee while others have disappeared,

leaving us with the number you see before you today.

In this time of peace,

the decision to sacrifice one's own life for the sake of revenge...

on the part of 56 men is by no means negligible.

The reason that you have all been summoned...

is our decision to commit hara-kiri and follow our master to the grave.

A moment, sir.

Pardon my disrespect.

I have something to say before you go on.

The five of us who returned from Edo today,

did not return to disembowel ourselves.

I can understand following our master to the grave,

but the fact that Kira, the perpetrator of this atrocity, is still alive...

What do you all think of that?

That is our objection.

When our master was taken from us on the 14th,

we made the decision to take Kira's life at all costs...

and avenge the death of our lord!

Therefore, we cannot participate in this plan.

We bid you all farewell and will be returning to Edo presently!

Excuse us.

Please wait!

Chief Councilor, I feel the same as these men.

Please excuse my selfishness,

but I will also withdraw from this plan and head to Edo! Excuse me.

Hold it right there!

Your spirit is truly admirable, but it doesn't excuse your insolence!

Cool your heads...

and listen to everything the Chief Councilor has to say.

Now. Allow me to tell you where I stand.

Our lord's regrettable fate and the abolishment of his name

is due solely to the malice of Kozukenosuke Kira.

That said, Kira is the focus of our revenge.

Letting Kira live is the greatest dishonor we can do to our master.

Then, what shall we do?

The reason I brought up "following our master to the grave,"

was to weed out those who do not have the honor to go through with it.

Our sole target is Kozukenosuke Kira! Kira's head on a stake!

So the plan is revenge? Revenge?

For you to go through with this, you must understand what is at stake.

Kira himself will not be our only foe.

The Uesugi Clan will most certainly not stand for it.

And it won't stop there.

The Shogunate itself, which handed down the one-sided verdict, will also...

- The Shogunate? - Shogunate?

That's right. Punishment for this action will not end with our deaths.

Retaliation against the Shogunate and its decisions will brand us as outlaws...

even if we are undeserving of that title. Our fates, of course, will be sealed.

But it will not stop there.

Our extended families will be sentenced to imprisonment...

followed by beheading and hanging.

You must all be fully aware of these consequences!

The abolishment of his name.

I don't have to tell you how regretful our master must have been.

I, Oishi,

have decided to risk everything and retaliate against the Shogun!

Gentlemen... do I have your support?

You need not ask me, sir!

I'm with you, Councilor!

- We're with you! - We're with you!

We're with you!

I thank you all wholeheartedly for your support.

Now that we have reached a decision,

until the time comes to carry out this plan,

I ask that you keep it confidential.

I also ask that you leave everything to me.

Here and now, sign your name on the oath and seal it with your blood.

Understood.

We'll leave everything to you, Chief Councilor.

What do you say, men?

- Let's do it! - Let's do it!

JUNE 1703

YANAGISAWA MANSION IN EDO

How did it go?

Lord Yanagisawa is a very strict man, just as advertised.

It will not be easy to convince him.

I see.

Kuranosuke Oishi. This way, sir.

This is a gift from Oishi.

At ease. Raise your head.

As to your request for the younger brother of Takuminokami, Daigaku,

assuming the Asano name,

Lord Tsunayoshi has made a special exception to allow for this inheritance.

He will make it official shortly.

You should feel grateful that the pain you endured...

after relinquishing your castle has produced this result.

Indeed, I am humbled at this opportunity.

On behalf of Daigaku, I extend my most sincere gratitude to our lord.

It has yet to be decided which land will be awarded to Daigaku,

but you should be thankful that the family name will live on.

Be patient until that decision is made.

Yes, sir.

That will be all. You are dismissed.

What is the problem?

With all due respect, there is one more request on the docket.

What is the decision about reopening the investigation...

regarding Lord Kira's actions?

Oh, that.

We have retired Kira.

I am already aware of that.

What is his punishment?

Enough!

His punishment is retirement. That will suffice.

If that is the case, I'm afraid I must decline your offer...

regarding Daigaku's inheritance of the family name.

What did you say?

Even if you offered us the best land and an absurd amount of money,

as long as Lord Kira is alive, Daigaku will be dishonoring his brother.

Oishi!

Do not do this to me.

Greed will get you nowhere.

Take what you can get.

I urgently request that you reopen the investigation regarding Lord Kira.

- Get out! - I beg you, sir.

- Insolent bastard! - I beg you. Reopen the investigation.

Out! Out! Out!

What is your impression of Oishi?

He seems to be a very kind man. More so than I had imagined.

I wouldn't count on that.

He's as stubborn as a mule.

In this time of peace he is willing to sacrifice his own life...

when there is obviously no need to. It's all part of his plan.

But it seems to me that he has waited too long.

If he plans to avenge the death of his master as rumored,

why would he bother to request that the Asano name be passed on?

That's just it.

Oishi is trying to prove that he is right.

He is willing to resort to violence in order to prove his righteousness.

And?

In his mind, avenging his master's death by killing Kira is not the ultimate goal.

He wants to prove to the people that the Shogun was wrong.

His first attack on the Shogunate

was the official request to reopen the investigation.

His next attack on us will be eliminating Kira.

Lord Yanagisawa.

Is it be possible to delay Daigaku's inheritance of the Asano name?

The longer we make them wait, the more likely Oishi's plan will fall apart.

Let's do this instead, Zusho. Let's send Lord Kira to Yonezawa.

To his home castle?

Right. Even Oishi cannot get to Kira if he's at Yonezawa Castle.

Tell Uesugi to make it so.

UESUGI MANSION IN EDO That's a great idea.

Send my father to Yonezawa.

Zusho...

make the proper arrangements.

With all due respect, sir, you mustn't do that.

I mustn't?

Tell me why?

Lord Yanagisawa is trying to make the Uesugi Clan the scapegoat.

If Lord Kira is sequestered at Yonezawa,

Uesugi will be criticized by the people for "hiding" a guilty man.

Furthermore, if anything bad happens at Yonezawa,

it could ultimately lead to the abolishment of the Uesugi name.

Are you saying that Lord Yanagisawa will betray me?

Lord Yanagisawa rose quickly through the ranks by merit, not blood.

He knows no master other than Lord Tsunayoshi.

He came in as a lowly outsider...

and reached his prestigious position serving only one master.

His loyalty is unconditional.

He will stop at nothing to protect the Shogun.

Then do this.

Send our best men from Edo to be with my father.

- You mustn't do that, either, sir. - Why not?

By indiscreetly sending Uesugi men to be with your father,

you would, in essence, be assuming responsibility if anything should happen.

Then...

Then what do you suggest I do?

The majority of Ako warriors...

are either old men past their primes or untested youths.

The only one that we have to concern ourselves with is Oishi.

Are you saying we should kill Oishi?

I ask that you leave everything to me.

Dear, what is going on?

Hatsu, rejoice! The time has come! Our prayers are about to be answered!

Then...

Kira is being transferred to his home castle today.

Okajima heard it from one of Kira's men.

I'm taking this to the temple and meeting Horibe and the others.

Has Oishi given his permission?

We've waited long enough!

We're doing it on our own!

But...

Father would be proud in heaven.

Hatsu, I cannot leave anything for our unborn child.

Sell this armor and use the money.

There are around 50 men.

There he is!

- Hey, is it alright? - Don't worry.

Her eyes and ears haven't been right in years.

Takebayashi and Akabane are positioned on top of that cliff.

Got it.

We will wait on the knoll in front of it.

Okuda and Okajima will fall in behind the procession.

The procession will come from the right. Fire when you see them.

That will be our cue to jump in.

Thank you, sir.

I have a lot of fish today. I've come to share some with you.

You are too kind.

- Sir? - Yes?

- Aren't you going to the temple? - What?

Ma'am, what's going on?

She has a tumor in her stomach. The prognosis is not good.

I pray she makes it to the day when we get our revenge.

Otaka!

What is it, Jujiro?

Hashimoto and Horibe have gone to the temple to ambush Kira!

What?

Hashimoto left with a rifle. His wife is worried and asked to me tell you.

So hasty...

They're coming!

They're coming!

Fire!

- What happened? - Kira's men! There's one more!

Yasubei, they're here!

- Out of my way! - Yasubei, don't be rash!

Out of my way!

Did you forget the Chief Councilor's orders?

Your selfish actions compromise everyone!

Yasubei, what are you doing?

- Move, or I'll kill you! - So be it! Go ahead!

What in the hell were you thinking?

Imbeciles! Have you no respect for your oath with the Chief Councilor?

Your thoughtlessness is disgusting!

If you had fired that rifle,

we would all have been apprehended by the authorities.

Otaka, I take it you had no trouble cleaning up the situation.

Yes, sir.

We buried the spies that were killed at the temple grounds.

Hara, how is Hashimoto doing?

Not very good. His wounds may heal, but he will forever be crippled.

Yasubei! This is all your fault!

Apologize to everyone at once!

Father, give me a moment.

Our actions were the product of careful thought and planning.

Although the end result was undoubtedly a disgrace,

I do not feel that it warrants an apology!

- Yasubei! - Listen to me!

I can't tell you how long we have planned for this day.

But the Chief Councilor's answer was always to wait.

I thought his coming to Edo would finally put things in motion,

but he won't even talk to us.

He sent a bribe to Yanagisawa...

and is consumed with talk of keeping the family name alive!

I can only assume that the Chief Councilor has had a change of heart.

Then we heard that Kira was being transferred to Yonezawa...

and decided it was our only chance to take his life!

That is called thoughtlessness!

No, I can relate to Horibe's impatience.

Kira is not getting any younger.

There is no telling how much longer he will live.

Not to mention those who could not handle being masterless...

and recanted their oaths.

True! Taking Kira's life as soon as possible is a desire we all share.

Gentlemen. Yoshida has arrived.

Yoshida, my deepest apologies for allowing this to happen under our guard.

What is the word from the Chief Councilor?

The Chief Councilor will be leaving Edo early tomorrow morning.

He said that he would like to return these oaths to you all for the time being.

- He what? - Return them?

The Chief Councilor has said that he would like to start with a blank slate.

He would like each man to decide whether to stay or to withdraw.

Why does he dishonor us in this way?

There may have been some isolated incidents of insubordination,

but our will to seek revenge is unchanged!

Enough! It's confirmed.

The Chief Councilor's had a change of heart. He is hoping our suffering...

and hatred will exhaust us and extinguish our will!

Listen to me!

The Chief Councilor also said that in light of this incident,

he doesn't want the help of lunatics!

- Lunatics? - That's right!

This past incident was nothing more than a fight instigated by hoodlums.

Simply taking Kira's life without going through the proper formalities...

will not constitute a retaliation against the Shogun.

That's not all. Our clan will be ridiculed as imbeciles led by an imbecile!

We will become the laughingstock of the country!

Life as a masterless warrior, it's tough.

It's frustrating, I know. But, it's not worth giving up your life!

Desperados, get out! Lunatics, get out!

That is the word of the Chief Councilor. That's all.

Wait, I beg you!

Yasubei, you really did it this time! You've angered the Chief Councilor!

Your actions have expelled us from Edo!

It's unavoidable. Perform hara-kiri as your apology!

I'll do it with you.

Don't be rash! Let's all discuss this thoughtfully and rationally.

Your apology to the Chief Councilor can come after that.

What do you say, Yasubei?

No. I am not entirely satisfied.

Sir Yoshida, I would like to meet with the Chief Councilor.

Please take me to him!

Do you see him? Ever since he arrived from Ako,

he visits our lord's grave every night.

I don't know what the purpose is,

but each time I see him there like that,

for some reason, it sends a chill down my spine.

There is a pharmacist named Iheiji...

who is staying at the Minoya Inn on Gojokiyamachi.

He will tell you who the target is.

They're all career criminals, but they're good with a sword.

You have nothing to worry about.

YAMASHINA, KYOTO

Left, right! Left, right! Left, right!

We're here, sir.

Welcome home.

- Were you good while I was away? - Yes.

Let's go!

How are you feeling?

I'm feeling much better now. Thank you for asking.

I had never experienced morning sickness until now.

Maybe I'm getting old...

It's the change of scenery. This summer is especially hot.

Take any necessary precautions.

I will.

I received this letter from my father in Toyo'oka.

I will get your bath ready.

Would you please read it and tell me what you think?

Sure.

Mother, Sir Fuwa has sent these gifts for the children.

My, how cute! Look!

- A cute doll! - I got a horse!

I'd like to take him his dinner now.

It's ready.

I read the letter.

It seems your father will be visiting soon.

My father wants to know what you are feeling in your heart.

When I visited my home the other day,

he asked me whether you were planning to seek revenge...

for the death of your master.

If so, he wants me to bring the children to his home in Toyo'oka

where he can raise them as his own. He was very persistent.

Riku...

You should...

take the children and go to your father's home.

You're asking for a divorce?

I'll write a letter to your father to avoid misunderstandings.

Wait! I beg you!

I could not imagine living without you!

I'm sure the children feel the same way.

Even if my punishment for being your wife is to be beheaded,

I am prepared to make that sacrifice.

Riku.

Please understand that I, too, do not wish to part with you and the children.

But what has happened is solely between my master and me.

As your father stated in his letter,

it has nothing to do with our children and unborn child.

However...

you must leave Chikara behind.

Although he has yet to come of age, Chikara is heir to the Oishi family.

Please understand.

I will do...

...as you wish.

Chikara.

What in heaven's name has gotten into your father?

When he divorced your mother, we all assumed the time had come.

Instead, he's engulfed in debauchery.

At a time when everyone is suffering so much. I can't take it!

Have you heard the latest popular ditty?

Ako warriors, dull and empty-headed.

Their leader Oishi, dastard and empty-hearted!

Don't take this personally, Chikara.

It's just that...

it's getting harder and harder to read your father's mind.

I believe my father's debauchery to be a plan to throw off the enemy.

Stupid, stupid, stupid. Stupid!

The enemy has Zusho Irobe on their side. He is a master strategist.

There is no way he'd fall for that! Stupid!

Rumor has it your father and Lord Yanagisawa have a secret agreement.

What?

What is this rumor?

That soon, Lord Nagai,

one of Lord Yanagisawa's disciples, will take over Ako Castle

at which time Lords Daigaku and Oishi will become Nagai's subordinates.

Impossible!

Chikara!

Hasn't your father told you anything?

You must ask your father if this is true.

Sorry, but I can't do that! I beg you to believe in my father!

He has not had a change of heart!

Do you have proof?

You must believe him!

Chikara!

Ouch!

- Hold it! - What?

- Apologize! - Get lost!

- Apologize! - You little runt!

Get him! Get him!

Take this!

Ouch!

Get him! Get him!

Watch it! He's drawn his sword!

Chikara!

The authorities! The authorities are coming!

Let's get out of here!

Hold it right there!

What's the matter?

Father, do you or do you not intend to avenge the death of our master?

Please answer me truthfully! I am at my wit's end!

The bath is ready.

Chikara, stay out of this!

Are you hurt, sir?

Father...

Sir Fuwa! Sir Fuwa!

SEPTEMBER 1703

You called for me, my lord?

Zusho, my father has just told me that the Shogun is rejecting the request...

for Daigaku to inherit the Asano name.

Are you aware of this?

- Yes, sir. I have heard. - What is the reason?

I thought Daigaku was to be given the Shimotsuke Lordship.

Kuranosuke Oishi, during his meeting with Lord Yanagisawa,

seems to have rejected the Shogun's offer.

Oishi did what?

Zusho, what exactly is Oishi planning to do?

I cannot say for certain.

I hear that he is presently in Kyoto,

indulging himself with women and drink.

In Kyoto...

Then it shouldn't be difficult to eliminate him. Why haven't you?

How can the actions of one man dictate the destiny of the entire Uesugi clan?

Zusho, my father is right.

Take him out at once.

If Daigaku's inheritance of the Asano name has been rebuffed,

the Ako disciples may spring into action at any time.

I'll be staying here for a while.

Tsunanori, you don't look too well.

I'll hang around and keep you company.

Any objections?

This is beautiful.

The old woman made this in her condition?

Yes, sir.

She finished it the day before she passed away.

"This color will go well under the black crested kimono

"the men will wear when they get revenge."

Those were her final words.

No doubt she died regretting...

not being able to see you dressed in it, Gengoemon.

She kept saying how she wanted to over and over again.

How long does he intend to make us wait?

At this age, it's driving me insane thinking I might not make it to that day.

If that were to happen,

I wouldn't be able to face our master when I see him in heaven.

For every man who dies,

there is another waiting to be born.

Be patient.

There is nothing we can do but wait.

You have a visitor.

Oishi, it's been a long time.

Well, well. How have you been? Please, come in.

I'll be finished here in a minute.

I hate to disturb your fun,

but there is something of a favor I would like to ask of you.

When you handed over the castle, you sent the clan's money...

and Lord Yozein's personal belongings

to the Amagawa store in town for storage, I was told.

- Yes, I did. - I heard...

that some of my belongings were mistakenly mixed in and sent as well.

Maybe.

Not maybe! Definitely! I know it!

I've asked for them many times...

but I'm always told I cannot have them back without your consent.

I know my previous actions do not obligate you to give them back to me,

but life as a masterless samurai is harsh and on top of that,

I was recently blessed with a second grandchild.

I am in dire straits.

Please show compassion and have them returned to me.

- Sure, no problem. - What?

I'll send a letter to the Amagawa store.

Are you sure?

Thank you! Thank you very much!

How about a drink?

Don't mind if I do. No, give me the bigger one.

Thank you.

Please have a look. I pestered him to draw them for me.

- Oh, yeah? - This one, and that one, too.

He drew them all for me.

Beautiful. You haven't lost your touch.

Thanks to him, this room is called the Flower Room.

Sir Oishi, surrounding yourself with these "flowers" in the Flower Room, eh?

You are thriving as you always have. How I envy you...

- There! It's finished! - Let me see.

- What the hell is that? - Sir, what have you...

What do you think? Interesting, isn't it?

No, it isn't. It's disgusting.

He sometimes does things that are out of the ordinary.

Oishi, I thought that this debauchery was due to the madness...

caused by the divorce from your wife,

but all along you've been dreaming of taking Kira's head, haven't you?

Absolutely not! I just thought it would be a funny complement to the flowers.

I know you better! Don't try to fool me, Oishi.

Why do you lie to me? You've never painted pictures like this.

You were always a man who loved flowers and loved humankind.

A man who, more than anybody, appreciated the preciousness of life.

Look at yourself now. How could you have disgraced yourself so?

Look, Oishi,

the decision regarding Lord Daigaku will be made soon enough.

If Lord Daigaku's wish is granted, you must cease this talk of revenge.

Even if he isn't given a lot, with someone like you by his side,

he would be able to hire at least 50 or 100 men.

I myself am worth nothing when it comes to the sword,

but nobody is better with the abacus! Let me help you regain what you've lost.

What do you say? We owe it to the Asano Clan.

I am not a samurai without honor who doesn't know my obligations.

I think you're taking this painting done in jest a little too seriously.

To tell you the truth...

I'm sick and tired of all this talk of obligation and revenge.

Right now I have no intention of leaving these rural surroundings.

I ask that you allow me to enjoy this carefree lifestyle.

Pardon me. There is a visitor for Miss Uki.

Who is it?

The older gentleman who frequents...

I know, I know.

Oishi, don't run away from me. We're not through here. Hey!

On the 18th, Lord Daigaku was summoned by Lord Kato

and was told that the request to inherit the family name was denied.

Lord Daigaku's assets were seized...

and he was banished to his parental home in Hiroshima.

A sentence far more severe than we had hoped for.

With this, the Ako Asano name...

has been erased from history!

Tell the men at Kamigata to assemble at Juami in Maruyama at once.

Yes, sir.

Oishi.

Oishi.

Oishi!

- Somebody's been murdered! - Murder!

Hurry! Hurry!

- Yamayoshi! - Sir!

- Congratulations, you've killed him! - Idiot! I killed the wrong man!

Hashimoto!

Hashimoto!

Hashimoto!

Please, wake up.

Listen to me. The Chief Councilor has come to Edo.

He arrived at an inn in Kawasaki last night.

He wants everyone to assemble tonight. Please, get ready.

Hashimoto!

Hashimoto, did you hear me? The Chief Councilor is here!

- So what? - Huh?

I'm sleepy! Leave me alone.

Your wife. Where is your wife?

- Out making money. - Where?

In Fukagawa.

She's selling her body in Fukagawa.

A prostitute?

She had to. We've accumulated so much debt these past six months.

Hashimoto! You call yourself a man?

How can you make your wife sell her body?

Is getting drunk that important to you?

Shut up!

She's my wife. It's my decision if I want her to sell her or kill her.

I don't answer to you! Get out!

Hashimoto!

You're out of control!

Pick yourself up!

Not only for your wife, but for your child, too!

I beg you!

Get out! Get out!

Get out!

- Get out! - Hashimoto!

Get out!

Hashimoto.

I am...

Lord Kira's attendant,

Heihachiro Kobayashi.

I saw one of your Ako comrades burst out of here...

with a severe look on his face.

Was there an emergency of some sort?

There are 50-ryo here.

If you know the whereabouts of Oishi, would you mind indulging me?

Rest assured I would never reveal who told me.

It would be in your best interest...

to take your wife and child and leave Edo immediately.

Kill me now!

My body may be crippled but my mind is still sound.

I will not betray my comrades. Not even in death!

No need for that.

I now know that Oishi is in Edo.

No... Wait!

Wait! Wait!

Wait!

The Chief Councilor is here!

Chief Councilor!

- Chief Councilor! - Chief Councilor!

- How have you been, sir? - Chief Councilor!

- Chief Councilor! - Chief Councilor!

- Chief Councilor! - You look well, sir!

Men, I'm sorry to have kept you waiting.

Lord Daigaku has been sentenced. There is but one thing left for us to do.

It is up to us to right the wrong of the Shogunate.

It is time for us to avenge the death of our lord and ease his pain.

I, Oishi, shall lead you in this quest!

Has there been news from Kyoto?

Is Kumi...

behaving herself?

She's the same.

Hatsu...

- Let's leave Edo. - What?

- We will never get revenge. - That can't be!

I have money. Look!

- Where did you get... - I'll go tell the owner.

Please wait!

Please tell me where you got such a large amount of cash.

It doesn't matter where.

Yes, it does. Dear, did you...

That's right. I got it from one of Kira's men.

I can't believe it! You must give it back at once!

Don't worry. I haven't betrayed my comrades.

Hatsu,

don't you want to be with our daughter?

- How dare you ask me such a thing? - Hatsu...

I beg you,

if you feel even an ounce of pity for me, give this money...

Give this money back at once.

I beg you! Right now!

Dear!

Dear...

Kira is presently at the Uesugi mansion in Sakurada.

He has hidden himself there, claiming to be taking care of Lord Uesugi.

Security has been heightened since Lord Daigaku's sentencing.

They are probably expecting us to raid the Kira mansion.

And the floor plan of the mansion?

At present, all we have is an old floor plan we got from a former resident.

Kira's men have made quite a few modifications to secure the place.

Reinforced gates, hidden passageways and the like. It is now a fortress.

First, we must create an accurate floor plan.

Next, we must find out for certain...

on which day and at what time Kira will be at his mansion.

KIRA MANSION

Intruder!

My lord!

Get them!

Guards!

Hurry up!

They're in the Tsuchiya mansion.

- Get them! - Yes, sir.

Hold it!

Put out the light.

My lord!

Let me guess.

A request from Kira to search our mansion, right?

Yes, sir.

- Deny it! - Sir?

Tell them that intruders did indeed escape into our grounds...

and that they were killed without interrogation.

Yes, sir.

Master, Lord Kira's end-of-the-year tea ceremony is soon.

Yes, I, too, have been invited.

Is that ceremony to be held at the Kira mansion?

It is.

- Will Lord Kira be in attendance? - Of course, he is the host.

When is it?

Actually, I wanted to borrow your tools...

to create an accessory for my tea collection.

We should avoid the day of the tea ceremony.

I have been told that the tea ceremony will take place on the 14th.

Pardon me, aren't you Otaka?

Kikaku, do you know Yotsuya?

He resembled one of my haiku cronies from long ago.

Who is that?

He was an Ako samurai named Otaka.

I heard a rumor that he came to Edo after their castle fell.

Thank you. Come again.

Ma'am, pardon my rudeness.

We cannot find Hashimoto.

The raid has been set for tomorrow night.

Then...

We must let Hashimoto know at once.

- I know where he may be. - Where?

Two or three days ago, a barmaid of Kawabata's came to collect money.

Her name was Osen.

- I'll look for him. - I'll go, too.

What the hell do you want?

- Get out of here! - What are you doing?

- I said get out! - Ouch!

Dear, rejoice!

The raid has been set for tomorrow night.

Come home and get ready!

Raid?

Hurry, let's go!

It's too late!

The only things I want are more drink and the money you bring home.

Dear... How dare you say such things!

Foolish woman!

You are no longer the wife of a samurai!

Get over it already!

Hashimoto!

How can you say that to your wife!

It's none of your business! Leave us.

No! I will take you with me. Your wife deserves better!

So that's it.

You have a thing for my wife.

How could you...

Alright, let's see what you've got.

If you kill me, my wife is all yours.

Hashimoto!

Dear...

Hashimoto, stop!

What the...

Dear...

Forgive me.

- How could you? - Out of my way!

She is...

my wife.

Jujiro.

Take a good look at what's happened to us.

If we had acted a year,

even six months earlier, none of this would have happened.

Tell Oishi for me...

...that I resent him for this.

Hashimoto, no!

Hashimoto!

Hashimoto!

DECEMBER 14, 1703

What's this?

It is the teacup that you have always wanted.

The brand is White Snow, apropos the weather we're having.

- For me? - Yes, sir.

Why the change of heart?

I asked you for this twice before. You turned me down both times.

Think of it as the whim of an erratic tea master.

I see.

Your generosity will not be forgotten.

- Who is it? - It's Jujiro Hazama.

- Jujiro, you're late. - You had us worried.

- Whose child is that? - Chief Councilor?

He's upstairs.

- Jujiro... - Brother.

Jujiro, whose child is this?

It's Hashimoto's daughter.

- What? - Hashimoto has withdrawn.

No!

Chief Councilor, Hashimoto was ill.

He took his wife's life...

...and then his own, honorably,

saying that he'd see us on the other side!

Is that so?

- Chief Councilor! - Jujiro!

Give me the child.

There, there.

I'll have my wife raise her.

She's always wanted a daughter.

There, there.

Now get ready. You don't have much time!

There, there.

Jujiro! Get ready quickly.

I'm ready!

MESSAGE FROM THE DISCIPLES OF TAKUMINOKAMI ASANO.

- They're here! - Tell Lord Uesugi.

Yes, sir.

I'll show you how a true warrior fights!

Heave-ho! Heave-ho!

- What is going on? - Be calm!

This must be the raid of the Ako warriors.

Light the lanterns and stand them up against the fence.

Yes, sir.

Residents of the neighborhood, we are warriors of the Ako Clan.

We have descended on this mansion to avenge the death of our master.

Please forgive this annoyance.

It is unavoidable. We ask that you allow us to proceed.

Listen, men.

If any coward attempts to flee into our mansion, your orders are to kill him!

Even if it is Kira himself, show no mercy!

Yes, sir.

- You! - Spare me!

- Take out your candles! - Here!

Hurry up!

- Light them! - Yes, sir.

Outside! Take it outside!

Come here!

Stand down!

He's mine!

Fuwa! Are you alright?

It's his bedroom!

It's warm! He's not far! Find him!

Spears!

UESUGI MANSION IN EDO Get me my horse!

The gate! Open the gate!

My lord, you mustn't!

Zusho, get out of my way!

I'll kill all the Ako warriors myself and avenge the death of my father!

Get out of my way!

I will not! My lord, you will ruin the Uesugi name!

Shut your mouth! Which is more important, me or my name?

Your name, of course!

You bastard!

My lord, listen to me!

If I allow you to do this, all who serve the Uesugi clan

will suffer the same fate as those Ako warriors!

Where is he?

We searched the entire mansion, but he is nowhere to be found.

What are you doing? Search every inch until you find him!

Yes, sir.

It's almost sunrise.

- What the... - Jujiro!

What are you doing?

What do you think? I'm looking for Kira!

Hurry!

- He's not here! - Hurry!

What are you doing in there?

Get out!

Hurry up!

I'm trying!

- You stupid bastard! - Spare me!

Tell us where Kira is!

I don't know! Please spare me!

- Everyone, out! - Get out!

- It's not him. - Get out!

He's not here!

Kira, where are you?

You!

- Did you find him? - No.

What is it, Jujiro?

I heard a voice coming from within.

I've...

I've hit something!

Jujiro.

Pull it out!

Jujiro, blow the whistle! - Yes, sir!

It's the whistle!

The whistle!

- Did you hear it? - The whistle!

- Did you hear it? - I heard it!

The whistle! Hang on!

Are you Lord Kira?

Allow me to confirm your identity by examining the scar...

my master gave you.

You insolent bastard! Get out of here!

It's there!

Oishi, I am a high-ranking lord appointed by the Shogun!

Killing me will be seen as retaliation!

You will all be beheaded! Is that what you want?

Nothing you say can stop this.

Hip-hip-hooray!

My lady, are you awake?

What is it?

Just now, a Kichiemon Terasaka arrived with a message from Oishi.

He said that Oishi and his men, 47 in total,

raided the Kira mansion just before dawn...

...and successfully avenged the death of our master.

After which they made their way to Sengaku Temple

and presented the head of Lord Kira to our master's altar...

and reported their revenge to him.

My lady.

Please accept my sympathy.

Since his death, it has been a long...

...and arduous time for you.

I am appalled at myself.

Led astray by public rumors,

I allowed myself to resent our lord's men for not avenging his death.

One could say it was brought on by my grief for my husband,

but what a superficial woman I have become!

Still.

47 men...

The sacrifice of 47 men...

For the sake of only one man...

I cannot imagine how gratified...

...our lord must be in heaven.

As you have ordered, we have sent Oishi and his men

to the Hosakawa, Mori, Matsudaira and Mizuno mansions.

However, they are all aware of the consequences...

and are quietly awaiting a verdict.

Insolent scoundrels who retaliated against our lord they may be,

but their spirit in going through with what they deemed righteous

is truly commendable.

Furthermore, many lords, magistrates and commissioners of temples...

have appealed for mercy in the verdict.

I'm sure of it.

Lord Tsunayoshi has also expressed that mercy is in order.

That the existence of such loyal men during his reign pleases him greatly.

Lord Yanagisawa.

This time we must do what is absolutely righteous and ease their pain.

Well, well.

You are such kind-hearted men.

Have all of you forgotten Oishi's fury when he defiantly challenged us?

- What? - Think about it.

The Shogun is commander-in-chief of all samurai.

Tolerating their actions would mean questioning our lord's righteousness.

Then we must...

Therefore, the day we tolerate this sort of mad recklessness...

is the day righteousness is lost!

The Ako warriors sacrificed their lives...

as a way to challenge the Shogun's righteousness.

Their insolent defiance of our lord's order...

is a slap in the face to our lord and to the entire Shogunate!

Furthermore...

Masking their true intention with a revenge kill...

is punishable by death at the very least.

Oishi, that bastard...

It is truly a shame that such a great man...

had to be the disciple of such a lowly rural warlord.

FEBRUARY 4, 1704

HOSAKAWA MANSION Takuminokami Asano,

He was punished for his actions.

For his insolent lack of awareness of being in the castle.

Kozukenosuke Kira was found free of guilt.

That 46 Asano disciples,

in order to avenge the loss of their master,

took the life of Kira...

in complete disregard of the Shogun's orders is inexcusable.

By the order of the Shogun...

you are all sentenced to death by hara-kiri.

Now.

Allow me to give you a bit of confidential news.

For Kira's insolent actions in the castle,

the Kira family name is to be abolished and all its assets seized.

I have been told that this order...

is due to the Shogun's change of heart based on the loyalty you've shown...

and that he regrets the one-sided verdict...

that he handed down two years ago.

I assume this is to your satisfaction.

Our happiness is beyond words.

We now have nothing more to ask for.

Oh, a bush warbler.

It's a glorious day. How appropriate.

Yes, yes. A wonderful day to die. Even for an old man like me.

Yes, that's just it. Leave it to the Chief Councilor.

He doesn't like to leave anybody out!

Those sent to the other mansions...

must all be pleased as well.

MORI MANSION

MIZUNO MANSION

MATSUDAIRA MANSION

Everything is set.

Chikara Oishi, please come with me.

Yes, sir.

Chikara.

We will be joining you shortly.

Be brave.

Pardon me.

Your men have all finished!

Kuranosuke Oishi, please make your way here!

Your men.

They all performed honorably.

Be proud. It is due to your admirable guidance.

I am...

I am in awe.

You are too kind, but...

...regardless of rank, a warrior is a warrior.

What do you mean?

These great men.

They did not require guidance from a man as insignificant as I.

Rather, I am the one who was supported by them.

They are the ones who led me here today.

Looking back,

from the oldest of 78 to the youngest of just 15,

each and every one, all 46,

no, each and every man who gave up his life to achieve this goal

was truly...

...a great comrade.

Well, then. I am sure you are all tired of waiting.

It is time!

Today, the 47 Ako warriors rest peacefully...

at Sengaku Temple in Takanawa.

Though the people and their hearts may have changed over the years,

to this day, countless visitors congregate there to pay their respects.

THE END