Original subtitles

A SHOCHIKU-HAIYUZA CO-PRODUCTION

A SHOCHIKU FILM

SPRING 1722

EDO - FUKAGAWA

BANDITS VS. SAMURAI SQUADRON

Screenplay by KANEO IKEGAMI

Original Story by SHOTARO IKENAMI

Cinematography by TADASHI SAKAI, MASAO KOSUGI

Music by MITSUAKI KANNO

Starring

TATSUYA NAKADAI

SOMEGORO ICHIKAWA

SHIMA IWASHITA

KEIKO MATSUZAKA

TERUHIKO AOI

HIROYUKI NAGATO

JO SHISHIDO HIDEO TAKAMATSU

ISAO NATSUYAGI MIKIO NARITA

JUNKO MIYASHITA SHOJI ISHIBASHI

MITSUKO BAISHO TAKASHI YAMAGUCHI

TETSURO TANBA TAKUZO KAWATANI

Directed by HIDEO GOSHA

A top sake dealer in Edo and this is all the money you've got?

Omiya,

we know you've got money stashed away somewhere.

I'd love to see Kumogiri's face when he finds we beat him to the cash.

So would I.

Like a kid whose candy was stolen!

That's for sure!

Hey, Kumogiri, we'll just help ourselves.

Omiya sure found a good hiding place.

Kill them without mercy if they resist!

Damn it!

ROKUNOSUKE OF THE KUMOGIRI GANG

Greedy bastards.

KICHIGORO, KUMOGIRI'S LIEUTENANT How dare they try to cheat us of money

we've spent three years planning to steal!

Hey, chief.

The police were slow out of the gate.

Hey! They're on the river!

That's Akatsuki's gang. Don't let 'em get away!

Boss...

everything went according to your orders.

What about Hoshiuemon?

He got his due for cheating us. He's like a rat in a trap.

I see.

Well done.

So you took the Koshu road from Shinshu at the beginning of the year

and arrived in Edo this month.

Is that correct?

Yes, sir, that is correct.

And where did you plan to go from here?

No particular destination.

- You just wander aimlessly? - Yes.

Then why did you stay here for over ten days?

- It was my heart's wish. - What the hell does that mean?

That's a difficult question to answer.

It's a wish one nurses in one's own heart,

not something one shares with others.

- You refuse to tell us? - Hold on.

This mortuary tablet says “Nun Kasei-in Hoso Nittei.”

This woman was your relative?

Forgive our rudeness.

No doubt about it - he used to be a samurai.

Shall we check his background?

Leave it. There's nothing suspicious here.

The Bureau of Arson and Theft,

commonly referred to as the Bureau,

was responsible in the early 18th century

for preventing fires, catching thieves, regulating gambling, and so on.

Its authority to police crime extended throughout Japan.

The officers of the Bureau

were drawn from a small number of the finest samurai in government.

These officers were given emergency authority

to investigate, apprehend, and punish

criminals of the realm.

About the Omiya case:

One of the three men we caught

said he could identify Kumogiri's men.

You must be speaking of Rikichi Komadera.

Let's give him clemency in return for acting as bait.

Tell him the terms, then let him go.

Yes, sir.

It's just that no matter what we do,

Kumogiri seems able to exploit our slightest error

as if he were some kind of demon.

Demon?

Nonsense.

We're human, and so is he.

Every supposed act of magic

has a secret behind it.

CHIYO, KUMOGIRI'S ACCOMPLICE

Lord Matsuya, please stop it.

Lord Matsuya...

Well, well...

They're back from their little tryst.

DENJIRO OF THE KUMOGIRI GANG

You're back.

Yes, we're back.

Koshuya, I see you've arrived too.

Yes, I got your message a while ago.

All right. We can talk in a little while.

Is there a room where she can change?

Yes, upstairs as usual.

Please, this way.

I hear you're very attached to her.

This is the sixth time we've met.

You really set me up with a fine woman.

I'm the top merchant in Nagoya in Owari,

yet she's got me in the palm of her hand.

All kidding aside, she's not like those ladies for hire.

Don't be absurd. I never said she was.

I knew from the start that she was different.

I only arranged this match because you're such a valued client.

To tell you the truth,

she's from a noble family.

Noble?

Tell me more. I didn't ask about her past at first.

I thought it would only be a one-night thing.

Well, it's like this.

Please have some.

It's true what they say, Chiyo,

about how you drive men crazy.

Please, just once...

let me taste your pleasures.

I'm begging you.

What do you take me for?

I don't do this for fun.

It's part of my job.

I was just joking.

You won't get off so easy when I tell the boss.

She's the young widow

of a court noble in Kyoto

who just recently passed away.

Because she was the second wife, the noble's relatives took the house.

Such things sometimes happen,

even to good people like her.

She has no family, no money.

She used to be my client, so I took her in.

I see.

Actually, the reason I asked...

was because she asked me to take care of her.

That would be such a bother! Besides, you're only here on a trip.

Not at all.

If someone loves you deeply,

taking care of her is no trouble.

So you'll take her with you to Nagoya?

JIHEI OF THE KUMOGIRI GANG

The palanquin is ready.

Thank you.

Yes, that's what I'll do.

I'm single.

I can do as I please.

I want her to become my...

you know.

Please, don't kid around.

Why would a man my age joke about such things?

Anyway, we'll discuss it fully later.

Well, then, I'll see you off.

Did he leave?

Hey, I'm asking you.

Did he leave yet or not?

Yeah, he left.

Don't get too hot on her.

Look who's talking.

Don't get carried away is all I'm saying.

Who the hell do you think you are?

Shit!

While I've been wasting time on you, Chiyo walked into a trap!

Bastard. Kiss my ass.

Hey, wait!

Isn't that Roku?

Yeah, he's calling us.

Stop and wait for him.

Son of a bitch!

Who the hell are you?

Kill him!

Uncover his face!

Chiyo, the boss said we can't go killing people before a job.

We'll say I killed him.

Old man, it was me who killed him.

I'm the one who killed him.

You'll get reprimanded for this.

At least that way I'll get to see the boss.

Don't worry about it so much.

You can go back. - What about you?

Forget it. Your boat is cursed.

Roku, let's go.

SUBASHIRI OF THE KUMOGIRI GANG

Are you Kuranosuke Tsuji?

I see. I was looking forward to meeting him today.

It's a pity.

But tell him that in three months, the successor of the Owari clan,

Shojumaru, will have his coming-of-age ceremony.

Make sure you tell him.

I understand.

I will do so without fail.

And tell him I'd like to see him at the ceremony.

Sir!

You forgot this. - Thank you.

A traveler mustn't forget his spare sandals.

Chiyo, I met with the boss last night.

He said for you to be patient.

He's worried about you.

I can tell.

You'll be leaving for Owari soon.

No doubt you'll see him then.

Roku.

You're a man too.

And if you understand a woman's feelings,

then you're a grown-up man at that.

A storm is coming.

Take this.

Roku, you're such a sweetheart.

Careful! You almost killed me!

Nobody on the second floor!

They're very clever.

I was afraid this would happen.

They seem to have gotten wind of us.

- Damn it! - Gone without a trace.

His name means “clouds and fog,” and he's got us in a fog this time!

Idiot! Praising the enemy at a time like this!

The Bureau is nothing to mess with.

If Okada hadn't warned us, they would have scooped us up.

Give him some money as thanks.

Understood.

As for Rokunosuke,

what should be his punishment

for killing that guy?

I'll think about it.

In the meantime, tell Okada to lie low.

Our luck hasn't been so good recently.

I'll go to the temple at Horinouchi to pray.

You really intend to go?

Well... maybe.

I understand.

What about our next target: Musashiya?

On that count, we're ready and awaiting your orders.

I went there again today.

I pretended to be Koshu the merchant.

Hey, speak of the devil - it's Koshu.

SHICHIMATSU OF THE KUMOGIRI GANG

- Head clerk, good to see you. - Welcome back.

KAMEZO OF THE KUMOGIRI GANG How's work?

Having a tough time, actually.

Chofu Castle still hasn't paid for last year's oil.

That's an outrage.

I've been in this business for years and never heard of such a thing.

They've put me in a real spot.

By the way, where's your boss?

In the back with the masseur, Tominoichi.

Looks like he'll spend tonight with a new girl.

It's the master's wish, my dear.

I understand how you feel.

But you need the money, don't you?

Think about it, all right?

It's not easy being head maid, is it?

It's nothing, really.

I've been taking care of the boss since I first moved in.

The safe is under the altar. I've got the keys.

A widower this rich is too much trouble to take care of.

You should have him remarry.

MATSU OF THE KUMOGIRI GANG What about you?

Time for you to get married as well, no?

Everything is ready.

We'll visit the temple tonight.

Maki.

I'm in here.

Goodness, you're early today.

Is that bad?

Not now.

There's someone here. - What?

My lord, I'm sorry for coming during the day.

You got away pretty quickly the other day.

From the notorious Bureau, yes.

Around them you're either quick or dead.

I came to thank you.

One day I'll buy her a tea shop with that.

I'm glad you two are on such good terms.

Just be careful of your colleagues.

My colleagues?

Those guys are nothing.

I'm a seasoned veteran, and yet I'm constantly overlooked.

That greenhorn Shikibu Abe

just promoted his protégé Tobei Yamada,

while I'm still stuck doing paperwork.

How dare they treat me like that! Why just the other day -

Now, now, stop that.

I should be leaving.

I'll be out of touch for a while. Take care.

Out of touch?

The boss wants me to pray with him at the temple in Horinouchi tonight

to exorcise our bad luck.

You know, that elusive Kumogiri guy -

I'd like to see his face one day. - Listen to me:

I heard a description of him.

I heard he's a runt like you. - What do you mean, “runt”?

- A short little guy. - You don't know what you're talking about.

You got it all wrong.

Kumogiri's as handsome as a Kabuki star.

You mean just like me!

What're you talking about? You look like a baboon.

You guys are talking nonsense.

Go ahead.

Boss, it's done.

Let's go.

Boss, what's the matter?

Ah, the masseur. He's blind.

Boss.

We're in a hurry.

Please wait.

What is it?

I left behind my late mother's comb box.

Forget it. We're going.

Boss! Nobody saw my face.

I can make up an excuse if I get caught.

What should we do?

Don't slip up.

We'll be waiting at the usual place.

I'll be there without fail.

I still can't figure out who's been leaking information.

Don't lose hope, Tobei. There's an explanation for everything.

Listen carefully, everyone.

There's always a secret behind every seeming act of magic.

I'll show you that secret right now:

Okada.

Come here!

You dog!

Here's Kumogiri's secret.

My lord!

Shall I kill him?

No, best to make an example of him.

Watch him try to survive as a samurai in disgrace.

What happened to his mistress?

Kumogiri got to her.

What?

Throw this eyesore out the gate!

Get up, you dog!

Worthless rat!

Masazo.

You're sure this letter was delivered by one of Kumogiri's men?

Yes, sir. I'm sorry.

His name was Kumagoro Subashiri.

I'm sorry I didn't arrest him.

It doesn't matter.

“We will hand over Maki

in exchange for Matsu.

The following are our conditions:

The exchange will be carried out

by only one person from each side.

It will take place at Koami, near the Edo Bridge,

at the Ogiyu public baths.

At 4:00 in the afternoon,

the two women will be sent into the bath."

Would the holders of kimono tags A6 and C9 please report to the front?

Your companions are waiting.

A6 and C9,

your companions are here.

What's taking you so long?

They're waiting for you out front.

A6 and C9!

Hurry the hell up! Stupid twits!

Each woman

will get into a separate palanquin.

Yours will be in front of the bathhouse.

Ours will be across the street.

The men from either side

are strictly bound not to interfere.

Roku and Chiyo have arrived!

Welcome back.

Boss, sorry we're late.

It's been a long time, Chiyo.

I hope you've been well.

She deserves your praise, boss.

Thanks to her,

Matsuya is now our puppet.

Is that right?

Well, have a seat.

Boss,

shall we start now that everyone is here?

Yes, let's begin.

Denjiro, keep watch outside.

Now then,

as for Matsu's recent blunder...

I will overlook it.

But -

Boss, I was prepared for my punishment.

You can make up for it on the next job.

Isn't that right, Matsu?

But, boss, I -

Matsu!

Are we understood?

Now then, everyone,

drink up and listen closely.

The average person says

stealing is the easiest way to get rich,

but there's a 1000-ryo bounty on my head

that says differently.

Even if you give up the world

and sacrifice yourself

in single-minded devotion to the art of theft,

usually only one future awaits you in our profession:

hanging dead from a tree, your name forgotten to the world.

We've been lucky enough

to ply our trade unhindered for ten years,

and the name Kumogiri

has become known across the land.

We have enough money for all of you

to live out your days in comfort.

I have thus decided

that our next job in Owari-Nagoya

will be our last.

Bearing that in mind, I would like all of you

one last time -

one last time -

to work together as one.

Boss...

when you say “one last time” -

I mean to be done with theft for good.

The name Kumogiri will not be heard again.

That's what I have decided.

But even after we stop,

the world won't believe it.

They'll say we'll return one day,

that one day we'll start thieving again.

They won't be able to sleep at night:

neither those smug with power

nor those who grow rich under their protection.

Long after we're gone,

they'll still be talking about us, cowering in fear.

That will be our parting trick

when the final curtain falls.

Any objections?

Everyone's in agreement.

We entrust you with our lives...

and will do exactly as you say.

So you understand me?

I thank you.

I've come alone, as we agreed.

What is it you wish to sell me?

Nizaemon Kumogiri's true identity.

Not a bad proposition.

However, I won't sell it for money.

Who are you?

If you won't tell me,

these negotiations will go nowhere.

I'm the masseur who got mixed up in the Musashiya incident.

And as the masseur who was there...

what can you tell me?

I saw who Kumogiri really is, even with these eyes that don't see.

You... saw?

Ten years ago...

I was a captain in the Owari clan.

My name was Sajuro Tomizuka.

At that time

a sudden misfortune tore through the peace and quiet of our clan.

Kuranosuke Tsuji, clan bookkeeper, was caught embezzling money.

Kuranosuke Tsuji, former bookkeeper,

for the crime of embezzling clan funds,

and furthermore not admitting to same,

is hereby sentenced, for shameless conduct unbecoming a samurai,

to take his own life through harakiri.

His family name will be terminated,

and his entire family

will be executed.

Signed, Tsugutomo Owari.

However,

Kuranosuke and his younger brother Iori

rebelled against the sentence.

They broke through the siege and fled.

Eight of us were selected to catch them.

We pursued them through the hills of Mount Bodai.

We risked our lives hunting our prey.

After several hours...

when I came back to my senses,

the brothers were gone.

Had I returned in that humiliated state, I'd have had to kill myself.

So I took two of my comrades' heads...

and pretended they belonged to the Tsuji brothers.

It was the only way.

The only way I could survive.

Seven of our best men were killed by these two?

I can offer no excuses.

Well, nothing can be done about it now.

You're the only one who knows about this?

Yes, the only one.

Excellent.

Bring those heads here.

Masseur,

I believe I understand what you want from me.

I will make that dream a reality.

But...

there is one condition.

I know.

Kumogiri Nizaemon's head.

You want his head.

OWARI CLAN JUDICIAL RECORD OF HEARINGS AND PUNISHMENTS

EDO CASTLE

Shikibu.

Although your repeated failures in both the Omiya and Musashiya cases

have been sharply criticized by the council of elders,

I believe your continued dedication to the Kumogiri investigation

is worthy of the highest praise.

But why?

Tell me, is there any chance of success?

There certainly is.

In fact, Nizaemon Kumogiri

is almost as good as caught.

I say this with certainty because I have an informant who can identify him.

Who?

A former samurai

of the Owari clan.

Ten years ago,

there was a grave disturbance in the clan over an embezzlement case.

I believe Kumogiri was involved,

and on the basis of this information,

a solution to the Kumogiri puzzle

is already in sight.

If you are that confident,

I have nothing more to say.

Except this:

You are a pain in the ass.

I'm responsible for the welfare of the entire country,

and you put my neck on the line just to catch one bandit!

My deepest apologies.

There must be a mistake!

Let me see the Bureau boss! - Shut up!

We're sending you to a penal colony. Be glad you're still alive.

Please, somebody help me!

Takase.

About this Owari-Nagoya investigation:

We still don't know when and where Kumogiri will make his move,

but we absolutely must stop him this time.

You realize you may have to face combat.

I'm prepared for that!

Our opponents are cruel criminals,

the most villainous gang in the country!

If those who break the law are cruel,

does that mean that all those who make and enforce the laws

are righteous and just?

For example -

and this is just an example.

Let's say you were suddenly accused of a crime you didn't commit.

You were ordered to commit harakiri, your family lineage was abolished

and your relatives executed.

What's more, the woman you loved was stolen from you.

What would you do?

If such a man defies the law

to avenge himself and his family -

In other words, if he does his duty as a man,

would you be willing to be the one

who brings him down?

That's all. You're excused.

Make sure you come back alive.

Yes, sir.

NAGOYA CAPITAL OF THE OWARI CLAN

Welcome back, sir.

Welcome back, sir.

This is where we wholesalers trade.

Kyoto, Osaka and Edo are represented, of course,

but people come all the way from Sendai and Hakata.

I'll bet we do ten times as much business as the retail stores.

Welcome back!

This is my store.

As you see, business is booming.

Welcome back, sir.

I'm glad you made it back safely.

Thanks for running things in my absence.

I'd like to introduce her to everyone.

Have them assemble in the back.

Yes, sir.

And this... is your room.

How adorable!

I hope you like them - because they're not leaving.

She is really stunning!

You think so too, eh?

Now listen, everyone.

This lady comes from a noble Kyoto family.

We've fallen in love and are now engaged to be married.

We will soon hold a private wedding.

So from this day forward,

treat her with the kindness and respect that befits my wife.

Everyone understand?

Once we're married, you must learn

about day-to-day business, household matters,

and the handling of finances.

Everybody will help her, right?

My name is Chiyo.

Though unworthy, I humbly ask for your favor.

SANJI OF THE KUMOGIRI GANG

Game! It's odd!

Hey, clerk!

Shall I lend you some chips? We gotta help each other out.

Thanks, but I'm outta luck tonight. I'm gonna call it quits.

What? You run when clouds and fog set in?

Goddamn sandals!

Matsuya's head clerk!

Or should I call you

Sanji Yamaneko of the Kumogiri gang?

You're with the Akatsuki gang.

That's right. Chief Fukuuemon Yagura.

We missed each other in Edo.

This is the first time we've actually met,

but I've known your face for a long time.

Imagine my surprise, meeting you here, in Owari-Nagoya!

We're in the same line of work, so we might as well be pals, right?

That's definitely him.

I can't believe my luck...

running into a Kumogiri gang member!

Here you go.

That money you lost tonight - you embezzled it, right?

Use this to cover it up, and keep the extra for yourself.

Man, it's hot in here!

I don't want to remain indebted to you.

I'll just take one, and I'll pay it back for sure.

Kumogiri really screwed me good in Edo.

The cops took my best men

and ground them into the dirt like worms!

That's not my fault. I don't know anything.

Which is why you,

who don't know anything, should secretly tell me

where Matsuya's safe is, and where the keys are...

just as soon as you find out.

That'll be repayment enough.

No, I couldn't betray the boss like that.

Look here. Listen to me.

You've already betrayed him.

Well, look who's here.

If it isn't Matsuya's head clerk. Here for a good time?

Please stop.

You're hands are so rough.

Like the hands of a man I once knew.

Pour me some sake.

Her dad was my old partner in crime, Chushichi Tazugane.

We met by chance, and now she's in my gang.

When you finally make up your mind,

you can suck on her as much as you like.

After all, we're partners now, right?

Come on, drink.

They're in there! Don't let them get away!

Don't forget our meeting place.

You've been gambling too much recently.

Did someone catch you cheating and chase you off?

What happened?

There was a police raid just now in the pleasure quarters.

Two men and a woman got away.

And one of them was you!

I got cornered by Fukuuemon Yagura.

Fukuuemon?

And he knows you're Matsuya's head clerk?

Which means our plans could be blown wide open.

Chief, what should I do with him?

Please forgive me!

Sanji, the best way to show your remorse is to find that girl who escaped.

What'll it be?

Damn it! I can't remember her name!

Was it Machi - no, Maki!

You mean she's a Bureau spy?

Stupid shit! Just do what has to be done!

All right!

Matsu, make sure he follows through.

Subashiri, the boss is in Uzunoya. Tell him what happened.

If we don't shut Fukuuemon up, everything'll go up in smoke!

Maki?

This is what I do to men who try to take my girl.

What are you doing?

Die!

I don't want to die.

I don't want to die.

Beat and kick me all you want - I'm not talking!

How many times I gotta tell you? I want to see the head of the Bureau!

Shut your goddamn trap!

Just do it!

Do it! Do it! Do it!

You'll live to regret this!

He knows something.

I thought he was just bluffing to save himself...

but that kind of defiance is hard to fake.

How did it go?

Very well. I used the clan's public courier.

With urgent delivery, it should get there in two days.

If you don't believe me, write this down and send it too:

What do you guys want to know most?

Kumogiri's next target in Owari-Nagoya, right?

Well, I know what it is!

Subashiri, here's what you'll do:

Bribe the palanquin bearers.

Make sure they take our two targets

before they get to Hamamatsu.

You're good at that kind of thing.

The guard, Yanagi, is one of the Bureau's best swordsmen.

There's only one way to neutralize him:

Strike while he's in the palanquin.

Kumogiri...

who did you think you were fooling?

Out of my way!

Koshuya, with this gift I'd like

to bring our relationship to an end.

What do you mean?

Chiyo and I have decided

to be married very soon.

She will officially become my wife.

But if she meets you again,

it may be an unpleasant reminder of her former dependence on you.

Koshuya...

I'm no longer young, but I'm in love for the first time.

I'm not lying. It's absolutely true.

I see.

Chiyo's well-being is my greatest wish,

so if it will serve to help your marriage,

I will quietly withdraw.

I'm glad you understand.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Well, then,

tonight you'll see Chiyo for the last time.

How about some sushi?

May I take a look?

You're taking too many chances, trying to meet me like this.

It was hard getting in touch with you after Sanji got killed.

Then get somebody else to do it.

- Chiyo - - Enough.

What is it?

Denjiro has turned informer.

They don't know the exact details yet,

but the Bureau is taking it seriously, and they're on their way here.

The boss says we have to move fast.

The boss?

Is he in Nagoya already?

I don't know.

I just heard this from the chief.

If he's here, tell him the wedding will be in three days.

- Sorry to keep you waiting. - Oh, dear, it's you.

Don't just sit there looking.

If you want something, I'll buy it for you. - No, I don't want anything.

Always so fickle. Here, young man.

A little something for your trouble.

- This is too much. - Please take it and go.

Good job, everyone.

It appears that Chiyo is ready.

Very good.

You look splendid!

You are all excused.

Absolutely splendid.

Just as my employees said:

You look like a heavenly maiden.

A heavenly maiden!

That fragrance...

these breasts...

this body!

Truly a heavenly maiden.

I got myself a heavenly maiden.

I got myself...

a heavenly maiden.

Good morning, my lady.

Good morning.

Have you found the money and keys yet?

We just had the wedding.

He won't tell me this soon.

We'd better hurry.

Careful, my lady! It's dangerous over there.

May the boss be safe...

and when this job is finished,

may he and I be together.

What are you praying for?

For your health and prosperity.

Don't worry about me.

I've got tens of thousands - no, hundreds of thousands -

of gold ryo protecting me.

What exactly do you mean?

You're standing on top of my vast fortune.

My treasury...

is right under your feet.

Goodness!

There's a landing underneath the floorboards of the shrine.

The treasury is down there, behind a secret door.

In that case, you must be very careful with the keys to that door.

They must be hidden in a very safe place.

The keys are hidden very close to me.

Not only that,

but they are always on the move.

Nobody knows,

nobody can guess...

where those keys are hidden

except for me.

It's been a long time, Nizaemon Kumogiri.

Who are you?

The masseur at the oil shop you knocked off in Edo.

But more importantly, ten years ago -

Ten years ago?

I'm the one who let you get away, and that's why I -

I pass myself off as a masseur to hide from my pursuers.

But today is my lucky day.

Iori Tsuji!

You can't kill me here, can you?

This is the sacred Atsuta shrine.

Your former betrothed is outside, guarded by samurai.

You can't touch me. This time I've won.

This time I'm the winner.

This time I win!

Iori, we meet at last.

I would like you, as Kumogiri -

No, as my younger brother Iori -

to hear my request.

We've nursed this vendetta these ten years,

and now we have a rare opportunity

to avenge ourselves.

A rare opportunity?

That's right.

Right out there.

In ten days, Shojumaru will have his coming-of-age ceremony.

Everyone will be drunk from feasting

when Lord Tsugutomo Owari

retires to the Autumn Leaves residence

alone with his wife and child.

At most there will be 10 to 15 samurai guarding the residence.

The Autumn Leaves residence is right here.

As you know,

Owari Castle has a secret escape route for the lord's private use.

It runs across this lotus pond.

We can use it to gain easy entry into the castle.

The evening Tsugutomo retires to the Autumn Leaves residence

will be a heaven-sent opportunity, one that comes only once in a lifetime.

I've decided to die here on that day.

I've even seen it in my dreams over these past ten years.

Heaven and earth are finally working to our advantage.

Iori, please join with me,

and allow my death to become like the blossoming of a flower.

I beg of you!

Iori Tsuji died ten years ago in a sea of flames.

The man before you today comes and goes like the clouds and fog,

standing up against a corrupt regime.

He is the bandit Nizaemon Kumogiri.

For many years,

I have lived a life of infamy.

To sustain that life,

I have no choice but to refuse any and all requests.

You don't regret stooping to theft?

Regret?

What is there to regret?

A solitary outlaw who fights laws

meant only to protect the powerful

leads a free and adventurous life compared to those samurai

obsessed with ritual and rank.

No, I've enjoyed these ten years.

Then you have no ears to hear your brother's dying wish?

Iori! - I'm sorry.

I no longer even have eyes for lords or castles.

Or even for Shino, the girl I once loved.

Those things are nothing to me now but causes for regret.

In the end, your way of life and mine are at odds,

like front and back,

black and white.

I can say nothing more.

Your way of living

and my way of dying -

Which is right?

I can't say.

But I am no longer your brother,

and you are no longer mine!

I will go alone, even if it means failure.

I will do it by myself.

By myself.

Is my lady awake?

Has my husband left already?

Yes, he had some urgent business early this morning.

I see.

I'm going to sleep a bit longer.

You may go.

What do you think?

Is this the clerk you reported missing?

Yes, no doubt about it.

Could it have been a lovers' suicide?

Impossible. They were murdered.

You mean Kumogiri -

This one infiltrated the Matsuya household.

Kumogiri may still have others in there.

It might have been gambling trouble.

Any ideas, sir?

No.

None at all.

Jihei, please change these blinds.

Right away, please.

Tell the boss I'll have the keys by tomorrow night.

Are you sure?

I've run out of ideas.

They have to be here somewhere.

I just haven't figured out where yet.

Damn it! One day left. Somehow I must -

Chiyo, "somehow" won't satisfy the boss.

Have I ever failed yet?

I'm counting on you.

Yes, ma'am.

This secret path -

Matsuya doesn't know about it?

That much is certain.

I'm the only person Sakuzo told about it.

I don't even know how much money Lord Matsuya has,

much less where his treasury is or where he keeps his keys.

Only Lord Matsuya himself knows those things.

However, Lord Matsuya's father did once mention the tunnel to me.

So it's been there since his father's time.

Yes, sir.

The secret tunnel runs from here to there.

Tobei, well done.

Unfortunately, I was not successful

in finding the treasury.

That's all right. If you pursue it too far, Matsuya will find out...

and Kumogiri won't be able to make his move.

Under no circumstances can Matsuya learn of our investigation.

What about Kumogiri's other people on the inside?

They are no doubt under cover

and very close to Matsuya himself.

You left so early this morning.

The magistrate summoned me.

Sankichi was murdered.

Sankichi the head clerk?

That reminds me, Chiyo.

Let's go to my villa in Saya early in the morning.

What do you say?

But the merchants are all going to Owari castle tonight

for Shojumaru's coming-of-age ceremony.

How can we leave for the villa tomorrow?

The most important thing is your safety.

I don't want you involved in any unpleasantness.

Come. Let's go to the villa.

Say yes, won't you?

I have no idea about these things,

but if you say so.

Good. It's decided then.

Hear that? Your master and his whims!

He seems very fond of you.

The keys are hidden very close to me.

How are you feeling today?

How are you?

Not only that, but they are always on the move.

Chief.

Here they come.

Boss!

All right everyone, time to go.

Chiyo, you really came through this time.

Wait!

Boss, what's wrong?

This is very strange.

Something's not right.

The frogs.

They've stopped croaking.

Boss!

We're in deep -

Don't panic!

We're -

We can escape through the tunnel.

Don't panic, you understand?

Roku, hurry!

Roku, what are you doing?

Chiyo!

Chiyo!

Boss, take the tunnel!

It's the only way out!

Get away, quick!

Boss, hurry!

Roku!

Boss!

Chiyo!

Go on!

Get out of here!

Roku!

Run.

Save yourselves!

Chiyo!

Let's go!

Chiyo.

Chiyo, come on!

Boss.

Boss, that way's no good.

All right. Wake everyone up.

Chiyo, which way to the moat?

Fire! There's a fire!

Everyone wake up! Fire!

This way to the back entrance.

Subashiri, look after Chiyo!

- Boss! - Go with him!

Wait for me at Juzen Temple in Yamashina in Kyoto.

Juzen Temple in Yamashina. Understood?

Go!

- Chiyo! - Chiyo, go!

- Boss! - Go!

Boss!

Go!

Go, Chiyo!

Go.

Go!

Chiyo!

Chiyo, hurry!

Subashiri, take care of the boss!

Look after him, I beg of you!

Subashiri, look out for him!

The time has come to do or die.

So we meet again!

I'll show you what this “dog” is made of!

I'll show you!

Boss, hurry!

I'm not a dog...

I'm a samurai!

My lord!

They've fled to the base of the cliff!

Let's go!

This has proven to be...

the worst purchase I could ever make!

A message from the magistrate:

no clues as to Kumogiri's whereabouts.

Damn it.

And we almost had him too.

In any event, there's a strange old man here to see you.

He won't give his name, but he claims to know something about Kumogiri.

Suspects arrested:

chief lieutenant Kichigoro Kinezumi,

Matsu Kurozuka,

Shichimatsu Daikukozo,

and three other low-ranking gang members.

Suspects killed during arrest:

Rokunosuke Ingakozo and 16 others.

Suspects still at large:

gang leader Nizaemon Kumogiri,

Chiyo Nanabake,

Kumagoro Subashiri,

Jihei Sendo.

Is this summary correct?

Entirely correct, sir.

We once met at an inn in Edo, did we not?

That's correct.

I apologize for my rudeness at the time.

Why are you here today?

I'm here because -

I'm here because...

I'm the one you're looking for.

I'm Nizaemon Kumogiri.

You say you're Kumogiri.

Are you absolutely certain?

I am!

I swear by the gods of heaven and earth

that I am none other.

My friends:

You have served me well these many years.

I thank you...

from the bottom...

of my heart.

And we thank you.

- Tie him up! - No.

He turned himself in. No ropes are needed.

Nizaemon Kumogiri.

Yes, sir.

Before we arrest you,

I'd like to ask you one thing.

I'd like to know how you feel at this moment.

I guess you could say I feel

like bamboo that has broken under the weight of the snow,

only to know for the first time its own freedom.

In life I had no reason for living,

but in death I find a reason for dying.

I feel I've found at long last

the right place to die.

When you die,

the name Kumogiri will die with you.

But I promise that I, Shikibu Abe...

will personally discharge the duty...

of giving you an honorable death.

My deepest thanks.

I sent for Kumogiri's effects from Owari

as mementos of this case.

Despite all his thievery,

he certainly lived modestly.

These items reveal his true nature.

So, you said you had a request?

Oh, yes. Indeed.

The details are contained therein.

You're requesting

to be relieved of duty?

I thank you for your understanding

and humbly request your approval.

You've just executed a bandit who'd thrown our country into chaos.

Tomorrow you're to be decorated for outstanding service.

Why do you wish to resign?

Go on. Tell me.

There's no particular reason.

But if I had to give a reason,

I'd say it's now my turn to stand judgment.

Your turn to stand judgment?

He was human, and so am I.

I believe he and I must bow together before the judgment of heaven.

So you've discovered Kumogiri committed his crimes

partly out of anger at corruption in our regime.

But, Shikibu -

I can say no more.

You may leave.

Wait.

Dispose of these articles as you see fit.

As of today, Kumogiri will no longer be listed as a thief

in the official records.

That is my parting gift to you.

Pardon us.

NIZAEMON KUMOGIRI AND FOUR OF HIS GANG

WERE PARADED THROUGH TOWN BEFORE BEING EXECUTED.

It can't be. It makes no sense.

No matter what, we must do as instructed and hurry ahead.

It can't be.

Chiyo!

Do you really think our boss was executed?

Well...

the authorities put up that notice and paraded them through town.

They can't be lying about that.

I don't believe it.

Our boss can't be dead.

He's definitely alive.

He must be alive somewhere.

Chiyo!

Until I know for sure...

I can't go to Kyoto.

Are you saying you want to go back to Owari?

You'd be returning to certain death!

Chiyo!

Boss.

Thanks for going.

Kichigoro and Shichimatsu...

and Matsu -

They're all gone.

Kichigoro signaled to me with his eyes...

that I was to look after you.

And then that man who died for you -

No doubt about it: He was the man we saw at Joshin Temple.

He closed his eyes

and was at peace.

He even smiled a bit.

I see.

So they're all gone.

But, boss...

you still have me.

Subashiri...

will you follow me wherever I lead?

I will follow you anywhere.

It's really raining hard.

- Shojumaru. - Yes, Father.

Now that the ceremony is concluded,

there's something I want to tell you.

You are the heir to the Owari clan, so listen very carefully.

Years ago

this palace was on the verge of ruin.

They call us “The Clan of Myriad Jewels,”

but at the time we suffered a string of disasters...

and our coffers were empty.

But there was one fool among us

who didn't realize what was happening.

That fool was me.

The shogunate was in disarray.

The sixth shogun, Ienobu, had been ill

and had died after only two years on the throne.

No successor had been chosen.

But, Master, as head of the Owari-Tokugawa clan,

you ruled the most prominent family in the Tokugawa line.

Your wish to assume power was only natural.

Be that as it may,

our finances made it impossible.

I tried to bribe the council of elders, the ministers, the shogun's women

and the imperial court, all to win the throne over my rival, Lord Kishu.

In doing so, I bankrupted the clan.

As the commoners say, we were up to our ears in debt.

And yet Lord Kishu became shogun?

Yes, but I have no regrets about that.

What I regret are the hardships I caused these people here

who were responsible for our finances.

They made great sacrifices,

not only to repay our debts,

but also...

to save the honor of the Owari clan.

Thank you, my lord.

Your kind words have made all our pain of ten years ago

evaporate from memory.

I share this sentiment!

- As do I! - And I!

I beg to differ.

Don't you recognize me?

How could you forget?

A face...

that has haunted your nightmares for ten years

is not something you forget.

Who are you?

Here is my face.

My lord,

how very long it's been.

I am your former bookkeeper,

Kuranosuke Tsuji!

Kuranosuke Tsuji.

You were free to aspire to the throne.

Those born to high office are also free

to use the clan's money as they please.

But you...

out of selfish ambition and a desire to save face,

settled your debt to moneylenders

by accusing an innocent man of embezzlement

and crushing his family like worms.

How do you answer for such an atrocity?

Well, I suppose

if a lord deceived by his retainers still counts as a lord,

then retainers who destroy their comrades in hopes of advancement

still count as retainers.

You all disgust me! You are nothing but beasts!

Ten years ago...

my house was burned down.

I lost my mother, wife and child.

I escaped alone.

But this time, I will follow you all to hell!

Mother!

Iori!

Shino.

Out of the way!

Please wait!

Shino...

I don't care anymore that you betrayed me.

But you must step aside!

You don't understand!

You don't understand!

That is your son!

He's your son!

I never lost hope

that you might still be alive,

and when we met again,

I wanted to show you your grown son.

That was all I lived for.

That was all -

That's all I ever wanted.

Close the doors.

What she just told you...

will never leave this room.

If it does, our clan will fall into chaos.

Iku.

Or should I say “Shino”?

You must die here and now.

Die!

Boss!

Boss, there's a way out the back!

Hurry!

Boss, hurry!

There's no time to waste!

Iori!

Shino, get up!

Get in!

Iori!

Shino!

Iori!

Boss, quick, get in the boat!

Boss!

Throw your torches!

Subashiri!

AUTUMN 1722

NIZAEMON KUMOGIRI - DIED 1722 DEDICATED BY SHIKIBU ABE

THE END