All language subtitles for The.Fall.of.Ako.Castle.1978.WEBRip_Eng

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, Itd.

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, l'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.

l'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.

l'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.

"l'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,
l'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.
l'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 !

l'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 !
- l'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 ?

l'm not fleeing.
l'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 !

l'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 ?

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

Chikara,
how old are you ?

Fourteen, sir.

Fourteen...

l'm ready.

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

Well, obviously,
l'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 !

l'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

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,
l'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

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.

l'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.
l'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 ?

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

I had never experienced
morning sickness until now.

Maybe l'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 !

- l'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 !

l'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 !

l've asked for them many times

but l'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...

l'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 ?

l'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,
l'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.

l'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 ?
l'm looking for Kira !

Hurry !

- He's not here !
- Hurry !

What are you doing in there ?

Get out !

Hurry up !

l'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.

l've...

l'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.

l'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

- Takuminokami Asano,
- HOSAKAWA MANSION

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