Original subtitles

I finally made it.

There's the Ōoku.

I'll take your offerings here for the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.

Please form a line.

The Ōoku is off-limits to men.

And women can only enter if they possess a pass.

So that's the Ōoku, is it?

I'm so excited! I can hardly wait!

Ah!

Huh?

Thanks for your help.

Oh! Thank goodness. They didn't fall apart.

Huh?

Know what they are?

I'm afraid I don't, but they look like they're quite delicious.

Rice balls with magnolia leaf miso.

They smell good.

- Would you like one? - What?

My grandmother gave me these to hand out to everyone

as thanks to those looking after me at the Ōoku.

Mm.

I've come here to work. It's my first day.

My name's Kame.

I also begin work at the Ōoku today.

I'm Asa.

My, that is utterly irresistible, isn't it?

The smell of burnt miso

and magnolia leaves.

Well, try one. You're more than welcome.

I have plenty to share.

Thank you. I just might.

Hey! You two over there.

Lady Asa and Lady Kame.

Right?

Wow. You're both as beautiful as the rumors said you were.

I'm truly honored.

It's really nice to meet you.

The long journey must've been exhausting.

I'm Sakashita. I work here at the palace.

As a guard of the Ōoku,

my job is to watch over this here Nanatsu Gate.

Now let me take your luggage for you.

I appreciate the offer.

However, this is all I have, so I can manage.

You sure about that?

Lady Kame, you, on the other hand, seem to have a lot.

Master Sakashita,

these are yummy rice balls my grandmother made.

Won't you try one?

Oh dear! They sure do smell rather delectable, don't they?

Would you like me to prepare you a little love potion perhaps?

Ah! And who the heck might you be?

Me? Oh, I'm just a humble medicine seller, sir.

I sell various things, like a potion from England

that makes a girl fall for you, for example.

I don't need such a thing!

Something about you feels off.

Like, what's going on with this whole outfit anyway?

Just a word of advice.

You ladies need to stay away from scoundrels like him.

Nothing good will come of it.

All right.

Well, you'll just have to tell me the rest next time we meet.

You're a funny fellow.

Goodbye.

Would you stop that?

This is the Ōoku, Hiramoto. Please behave.

Hold on, Saburomaru.

I sense pretty ladies.

Oof. Those two are easy on the eyes, huh?

Enough already!

If you keep messing around and acting like a pig,

I'll throw your pass away!

Oh jeez. Stop being so uptight. While we're here, let's have some fun.

Show me your passes, just to be safe.

Huh? Oh, where is it?

Senior maidservants Madam Awashima and Madam Mugitani

will be waiting for you just beyond the gate.

Make a good first impression. Good luck to both of you.

I'll go introduce myself right away.

Thank you so much. And don't forget to enjoy your rice ball.

Yes, thank you very much!

Stop right there!

Will you be needing that love potion after all?

Nice try, but someone like you has no place here at the Ōoku.

It's reserved exclusively for the women gathered for His Majesty. No men allowed!

This Nanatsu Gate is as far as you can go.

And if you attempt to pass through here without permission,

you'll lose your head.

See you later, Medicine Seller!

And I don't need love potions!

One, two...

MONONOKE THE MOVIE: THE PHANTOM IN THE RAIN

How do you do?

How do you do?

Madam Awashima, the head housemaid.

And you can call me Mugitani.

I am the housemaid.

My name is Asa.

My name is Kame.

It's nice to meet you.

Now please take a drink.

This is the water of our benevolent Water Goddess,

who watches over us all.

All women who live here at the Ōoku

partake of this water every morning.

In doing so, under the protection of the Water Goddess,

we will always be prepared to produce a successor.

Hmm.

Now that that's complete,

you will gather your most cherished items that you've brought with you from home

and throw them into the well as your offering.

With it, you're discarding the person you were until this moment.

The person I was until...

Do I have to?

We must, since we're to become property of His Majesty.

- Exactly. - They're only things.

You're right!

Okay, then.

You see, these are rice balls that my grandmother gave to me.

I thought maybe you could all share them. We could pass them around, or maybe...

Oh, what are you...

Uh...

Excellent.

I'd say this sacrifice has only deepened your resolve.

Madam Utayama, how do you do?

Madam Utayama, how do you do?

- Madam Utayama, how do you do? - Hmm?

You won't be able to perform your expected duties properly

if your priorities are material.

- You'll see. - Excuse me.

Are we not able to cherish beloved items and our work at the same time?

Well, I must say,

you certainly do speak your mind, don't you?

I've loved words and practiced writing since an early age.

My father urged me to continue my studies here

since I was granted the opportunity to enter the Ōoku

in recognition of my accomplishments.

However, I have nothing I cherish so much that I cannot throw it away.

You have nothing that you cherish?

This was my grandmother's.

- She gave me this comb. - Kame.

- As a good luck charm. - Stop. You don't need to do this.

Hmm? But I really do.

I have to perform well at the Ōoku. I have to!

Hmm.

I sense a form...

...has emerged.

You're all going to get soaked.

Ooh! M... Madam Utayama!

- I'm so sorry you had to witness this! - Hmm.

Hey, you two! What are you doing? Bow your head!

This is Madam Utayama, administrator of the Ōoku,

and by her side, Lady Botan, a concubine.

My, Madam Awashima,

this newcomer is actually very well-mannered

and not at all lacking in respect.

I apologize, madam!

She hasn't yet learned the correct mindset needed

to fulfill her duties.

On the contrary. I will dedicate my life to my duties.

The Ōoku is not a place

for self-actualization or personal fulfillment.

What do you mean by that, ma'am?

How dare you talk back to Madam Utayama!

Your personal goals are now secondary.

From this point on, the Ōoku is your identity.

Both you and I are here for that singular purpose.

As you come to fulfill that purpose,

you will eventually gain a higher perspective.

"A higher perspective"?

You shall realize, in time, the burden you carry today

will be a distant memory, small and insignificant.

You're so wise!

I shall also be sure to remember this sage counsel!

Madam Utayama, we should go.

We mustn't keep the gentlemen waiting.

Madam Mugitani, do try not to be too zealous if you can.

Of course, Lady Botan!

- Mr. Sakashita. - What?

Why are all these people gathered here?

You don't know of the Birth Celebratory Ceremony?

I simply smelled a money-making opportunity.

Ignorant.

One of the concubines, Lady Yukiko, has given birth to His Majesty's child.

This Birth Celebratory Ceremony is a celebration of that new life.

Correct me if I'm wrong.

Isn't the ceremony supposed to be held before the birth?

Look, that's because...

Well, you see, a lot has happened.

Madam Utayama will be arriving shortly!

Excuse me! Oh, please stop!

That's Madam Utayama's!

It's fine.

- I apologize for keeping you waiting. - Hmm.

My name is Saburomaru Tokita. This is Hiramoto Saga.

Don't worry. We haven't been waiting long.

Please explain to us

why the Birth Celebratory Ceremony was postponed two months ago.

I ask you leave everything to me.

We were sent over here because we clearly can't leave it to you.

The explanation is as stated in the report.

Simple lack of preparation isn't an explanation.

I already reported to Councilor Otomo regarding this matter

and was instructed to keep the handling of this situation

strictly within the Ōoku.

Councilor Otomo?

Correct. I'm Botan of the Otomo family.

I serve here as a concubine.

It's been rumored Lady Yukiko had a very difficult childbirth

and hasn't yet recovered.

So some believe that this is because the ceremony wasn't held

when it should have been.

If that was the case, that would...

...make you personally responsible.

Indeed. I hear your concerns.

That's precisely why we made the unorthodox decision

to postpone the event to a later date.

Madam Utayama, our duty is to oversee the Ōoku and...

The Ōoku belongs only to His Majesty!

You should learn your place.

Yes, I apologize.

But we've been sent by the shogunate to supervise

and ensure the Birth Celebratory Ceremony proceeds smoothly.

I imagine Councilor Otomo told you this already.

Of course he did.

However, I must ask you to refrain from making more vulgar,

inappropriate overtures towards our girls while you're here.

Remember, you're in the Ōoku, where men can't go.

I do not care whether you're here on official business or not.

Anyone who breaks the rules shall be punished, no matter who they are.

Very well.

Please make arrangements so we can fulfill our duties

starting tomorrow.

Understood.

Suma is thirsty, master.

You are not.

Kiyo is thirsty as well.

You are not.

Your Grace, Fuki is not thirsty.

- Matron. - Yes!

Your master is thirsty.

Lady Fuki again.

He's got his favorites. You should know that by now.

The Ōoku employs approximately 2,000 maidservants.

Your first duty will be cooking breakfast for everyone before sunrise.

Uh... uh... uh...

Uh, I... I'm so sorry!

First you'll be preparing meals for 50 people on the fourth side.

Once you're used to that, we'll increase it to 100.

One hundred?

Be sure to finish your breakfast before serving the others.

- Mm-hmm. - Yes. Understood, madam.

Asa, your writing is so neat.

Before "before sunrise"? I wonder what time that is.

I used to make breakfast for my neighbors every day.

I'm sure we'll be fine.

Um, I've actually never made breakfast before.

Lord Saburomaru is the younger brother of concubine Lady Fuki

and third son of the Tokita family.

That doesn't change anything.

We shall continue preparations for the ceremony.

The Tokita family is currently gaining momentum.

I would prefer to avoid fighting them and giving them any unnecessary leverage.

That's a problem neither of us want.

For both me as an Otomo

and you as someone under my family's protection.

Then perhaps we should let them feel as though they've done some work.

Your status here will be as maidservants.

Both of you will sleep in a second-floor room.

You are to serve Madam Awashima...

Whoa! Two thousand?

And yet, out of all of them, only eight girls will ever get the chance

to serve His Majesty as a concubine.

Take the initiative...

The longest journey begins with the first step.

...the futons!

Understood, madam!

Mm-hmm.

It's the concubines. Stay alert.

Be sure to make way for them.

We are like decorative flowers

used to further enhance Lady Fuki's beauty.

They are so close, I could touch them!

His Majesty seems to have forgotten our existence

and only has eyes for Lady Fuki.

Are you listening to me?

I'm so sorry!

Here's hoping he'll pick us decorative flowers once in a while.

I wouldn't fret too much.

His Majesty first spoke to me when I was still a bud yet to bloom.

I'm sure your time will come too.

- Oh, Lady Fuki! - Mm.

How do you do?

Gosh, you're beautiful. So pretty.

Hmm. You must be new.

Yes, my lady! Kame. Nice to meet you.

How do you do?

Hmm?

Ah...

You done selling your snake oil or what?

Come on! We're closing!

Oil is not one of the goods that I sell.

I peddle in other things.

Aren't you drinking?

No. I'm not drinking till we finish our assignment.

A boring stick in the mud. That's what you are.

This may be more difficult than I initially thought.

What do you mean? All we have to do is look at pretty girls.

I could get used to this. Hmm.

The Ōoku is more than just a place for producing His Majesty's successor.

Yeah, yeah. I get that.

The shogunate and Ōoku are two sides of the same coin.

Power relations outside the Ōoku are maintained by the groundwork laid here.

Politics aside, if a successor isn't produced,

one might wonder if the Ōoku has another purpose.

Oh, sorry.

Didn't mean to imply anything about your big sister.

Our duty is just to oversee the ceremony,

but the higher-ups have their sights on Utayama.

Ugh, that old hag.

I don't like her.

I can assume why they didn't want their intentions

made apparent to the Ōoku.

If our experience with her was any indication,

I see why they wish to reduce her influence!

She thinks she runs the world.

Man, I can't stand that smug look on her face.

You got it rough as the third son of the Tokita family.

I mean, you only got this job thanks to Lady Fuki,

so you can't let her down.

You gotta make sure you deliver.

What happened two months ago to make them postpone the ceremony?

I know there was a reason.

Perhaps Madam Utayama has held power in the Ōoku for too long.

Hey.

Didn't that water smell disgusting?

Yeah.

As if it were almost rancid.

It makes me wonder

how Madam Awashima and the others drink it like it's nothing.

Time for fire check! Time for fire check!

Maybe they just deal with it 'cause they're doing it for His Majesty?

Oh.

I wish I could just skip all of this

and become a concubine like Lady Fuki already.

I must admit, she was very pretty.

When Lady Fuki passed by us today,

even Madam Mugitani's eyes lit up.

It's Lady Fuki!

Gosh, she's so pretty.

All concubines are pretty. You should know that by now.

Your eyes lit up too, didn't they?

This might sound strange,

but if I'm honest, I'd rather learn a skill

than be turned into some glamorous concubine.

My goal is to one day take on the role of official scribe.

Hmm.

The attention His Majesty's been directing

towards Lady Fuki lately has been, uh, rather intense.

Well, it makes sense.

Lady Yukiko did give birth to a girl.

I imagine Lady Fuki must be extremely talented at what she does.

Well, at this rate,

it's clear His Majesty's successor will be...

You seem like you would be good at pretty much anything you do.

Whereas, I'm not sure I'm really cut out for life at the Ōoku.

You and I can work as a team, so there's nothing to worry about.

Lady Yukiko hasn't been picked for some time.

Lady Fuki's influence only continues to grow.

And as for Lady Botan Otomo...

She doesn't seem all that interested in the night service.

Asa! Do you mean it?

You know, Asa, I gotta say.

- Huh? - I'm really glad that we met.

I am too.

We have an early start tomorrow. Let's get some sleep.

Hmm. Good night.

Good night.

DAY TWO

Hmm.

♪ All manner of misfortune ♪

♪ Sin and defilement ♪

♪ Purify ♪

♪ Cleanse ♪

♪ By the will of heaven... ♪

The Water Goddess has no interest in fire or smoke.

♪ Grant us good fortune... ♪

Hmm.

Madam Utayama.

How do you do?

How do you do?

The recently postponed Birth Celebratory Ceremony

is now three days away.

We're expecting many guests to attend the festivities.

There may only be a few days left, but that's no excuse for laxity.

Everyone shall remain focused and diligent.

Remember, women without a pass will also be denied entry!

I'll take your offerings for the Birth Celebratory Ceremony!

Form an orderly line!

It's far away. At least for now.

There'll be some personnel changes from the ceremony onwards.

The coordination of this Celebratory Ceremony

shall be entrusted to Awashima.

Awashima will heretofore switch from head housemaid to guest greeter.

From food and drink down to the decorations,

I expect you'll handle it all efficiently.

So every one of you will now fall under Awashima's command.

There will be over 100 participants at this Birth Celebratory Ceremony.

From seating to facilitating the flow of guest traffic,

every detail must be perfect.

Mugitani shall be promoted to head housemaid

so she can take over Awashima's former duties.

To do this, she needs a mentor familiar with the power dynamics

amongst important shogunate officials and various lords.

So Concubine Otomo will guide her in this endeavor.

Mugitani, be sure to learn proper etiquette from Otomo.

Yes, ma'am!

And although she only just arrived yesterday,

I have something to ask of Asa too.

Huh?

She will serve as a personal guide

for Saburomaru Tokita and Hiramoto Saga,

inspectors from the shogunate.

Although unprecedented...

...I will assign Asa the rank of housemaid.

Gentlemen, do you have anything to say?

Wow, Asa. Well done.

My name is Saburomaru Tokita.

Lady Asa, we'll try not to be a burden.

"Tokita"? Could he be related to Lady Fuki?

Madam Mugitani, I'll need some one-on-one guidance from you later.

Although usually off-limits to men, they have come to the Ōoku

to see to it that the preparations for the Birth Celebratory Ceremony

do not fall short.

Asa, make sure to attend to our gentlemen friends properly

so they understand

nothing occurs here that requires supervision.

This is the Ōoku!

Everyone, serve it with your mind, body, and soul!

To your positions now.

As you wish, ma'am.

Hmm.

I wonder if Lady Asa and Lady Kame are doing all right in there?

From your first impression of them, how would you guess they're doing?

What do you think?

I'm sure Lady Asa is fine, but I'm worried about Lady Kame.

Girls that are too kind often don't make it out in the real world.

Yet the girls who do somehow make it through

sometimes are so changed by it

that the next time you see them, it's as if they're a different person.

- Asa! - Hmm?

Hey, there you are.

- I've been hard at work... - Kame.

...studying up on how things are done here.

I can help you guide those two.

It's fine. I can perform my own duties afterward.

- Mm... - What do you say?

All right, then. Sure.

There was another girl recently

that completely changed after her experience, just like I said.

Know where she might be today?

Story is she left the Ōoku, went back to her hometown.

So you heard.

And did you happen to hear a name as well

for this girl?

What are you...

Why am I even telling this stuff to someone like you?

The night chamber lies over there, up ahead.

To think I'm standing in the place Lady Fuki passed yesterday

on her way to perform night service.

Oh, I wanna be her!

This has been very insightful.

You have my gratitude.

There are so many interesting things here to learn about.

Lady Asa, how long has it been since you first came to the Ōoku?

Hmm?

Oh, nice work, Kame. I'm impressed how much you know.

Yeah, well...

The rice ball for the ceremony will be pulled around the Ōoku

and end up here,

where the official scribe will finish proceedings by inscribing...

Saburomaru, so which one of them is your type, huh?

We're on the job. Knock it off.

Don't get so embarrassed.

Sh!

The purification salt should have arrived by now.

The weather has caused a delay.

I'm thinking of securing a substitute from a nearby wholesaler to be safe.

No. Why don't you have Asa do it?

Lady Asa?

Hey, Kame!

Awashima, how many years have you been at the Ōoku?

- Working's made me hungry. - It's been six.

I have made it a personal practice

to entrust those with the will and ability a heavier burden.

That goes for you and her.

But to move up to housemaid on her first day at the Ōoku...

- Even in Kitagawa's time... - Madam Awashima, take a look.

From reading this, you certainly wouldn't think she was new here.

Lady Asa composed this.

We all desire the same things.

We want to be recognized,

to be loved,

and, of course, to feel important.

Hmm.

These are needs that one, unfortunately,

cannot satisfy on their own.

Those around us expected to fulfill these needs

are also our main competition for those same limited resources,

the same love and attention.

I promise... I will do better.

I just wanted to talk with you. Oh.

Hmm.

Man, this might just be the longest day of my entire life,

and I... huh?

So this is a private room, huh?

Oh, I hope I get one of my own real soon!

It's amazing in here, Asa.

You might be the only person to ever get an official position

on their first day of work.

Madam Utayama chose me for this role. I have to work hard.

Okay, I'll leave you to it.

Huh? You're going already?

Yeah, I just wanted a quick look at the private rooms.

I'm a mere maidservant. I have futons and stuff to tend to.

Oh. Well... I'll see you tomorrow, all right?

Yeah! Tomorrow. See you.

Huh?

The umbrella's gone.

My apologies.

You see, I left that doll here.

I forgot it...

...when I changed rooms.

Hmm? Oh.

Were you the last occupant of this room?

That's right.

My name is Kitagawa.

Lady Kitagawa, I'm Asa. It's an honor...

Oh. Come now. Don't be so formal.

I hope this isn't nosy, but your kimono...

I'm assuming that means you're the official scribe?

My dear, such hierarchies really only exist within the Ōoku's walls.

When I was a little girl,

I visited the Ōoku with my father, and I was transfixed.

Enthralled.

The Birth Celebratory Ceremony was mesmerizing.

And, well...

...I've dreamed of working at the Ōoku ever since that day.

I remember it so vividly.

I was fascinated by the official scribe, who wielded her brush so powerfully,

surrounded by the beautiful dancing princesses.

I was the one who was to fulfill that role

in the recent Birth Celebratory Ceremony that was postponed.

Yes. I heard it was suddenly canceled for some reason.

That's right.

This brush is magnificent.

Why don't you apply for the role of official scribe?

I couldn't possibly.

I'm still not ready. Not at all.

I'd like to talk with you again.

When we meet, forget hierarchies and formalities.

I appreciate it.

In the meantime, look after that doll for me?

- Huh? - I'll come back to see her again too.

Take care.

- Rest well. - I will.

Lady Kitagawa!

Have a good nigh... night.

DAY THREE

Hmm.

♪ All manner of misfortune... ♪

Come on, Kame, wake up.

I'm so sorry.

I rely on you for everything.

Makes me feel needed.

♪ Cleanse ♪

Huh?

♪ By the will of heaven... ♪

- Let's go! - Okay!

Hi, Papa!

Huh?!

There's my good girls.

What is this? What is going on here?

I thought I told you to finish this yesterday.

What happened? Did you forget?

Um...

No, it's not that.

Uh... Oh, I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'll do it quickly now!

You think you can start now? They'll never dry!

That's why you were supposed to finish all this yesterday!

You can't just decide to do it today.

Besides, you have other work today

you haven't done yet either.

How sloppy.

Don't you feel embarrassed winging it like this?

Is something the matter?

She... she's not finished!

Your friend! She hasn't completed her duties!

My deepest apologies.

Huh? Oh!

I should have made sure.

I'm afraid that's not enough.

What about the purification salt I asked for yesterday?

I bet you haven't sorted that out, Lady Asa.

I did.

I sent someone to retrieve it right after receiving your instructions.

It arrived in this morning's early delivery.

Well, will you look at that? Lady Asa can do her job!

And then there's you! That's not even the worst of it.

Lady Kame didn't even wake up to prepare breakfast this morning.

What do you make of that?

Don't blame her for that.

I never asked her for her help. It's my fault it wasn't done.

This was a duty that you had assigned for two people to complete,

but I thought I could do it alone.

I apologize. It was a mistake on my part.

So, in other words,

it sounds like the only thing you're capable of

is wasting your time flirting with men!

How could you say that?

Yesterday, you shirked duties to flirt,

and today, you're oversleeping!

Are you just incredibly lazy, promiscuous, incompetent, or all of the above?!

- If you saw the... - Oh, my, my, my!

- Am I being too mean? Should I be nicer? - That's not what I meant.

- What did you mean? - That's quite enough of that!

Now then, Lady Kame,

gather your belongings and head straight to Madam Mugitani's room.

You will get a more thorough lesson

on exactly what your duties entail.

Madam Mugitani.

Please behave in a manner befitting of an Ōoku maidservant.

Let me show her how. It was my responsibility.

My, my.

You're willing to take on the responsibility

of instructing Lady Kame, after becoming a housemaid?

Yes, ma'am.

If that is to be my duty, then I humbly accept it.

I promise!

I... I'll be careful from now on!

I'll work hard!

- I don't think so! - I'm sorry!

I'll be the one to see to it this foolish girl learns her lesson.

- I'm sorry! - Kame...

Such beautiful hands.

From what I gather,

two months ago, there was a maidservant who quickly fell ill and left the Ōoku.

Also, it seems no one here is aware

of the reason for the ceremony postponement.

Should we get the shogunate to look into this situation?

This really is a fascinating device! What does it do?

That item is a scale.

A scale? Uh, but how?

How does it... Or wh... what does it weigh?

The distance between.

Between what?

Between that... which cannot be seen by humans.

It would seem that you have no real intention

of doing any hard work here.

It's obvious to anyone with eyes to see.

I swear to you, I'm trying my best.

I... I am.

But I have a hard time waking up in the morning.

I... I try to remember all my instructions but always end up forgetting.

I don't do as well as the others.

I know that.

I always feel like I'm ten steps behind.

Then why did you even come to the Ōoku?

Why are you here? Answer me!

Hmm.

Huh?

Hmm.

I've dealt with your kind.

You think you can get away with anything simply because you've got a pretty face!

Just another ambitious harlot aiming to shack up with His Majesty!

That's not true.

Hmm?

Finally!

- No! Stop! Give it back! - Stop grabbing onto me!

If you really plan to dedicate yourself to the Ōoku and work hard,

then you won't need all this!

I told you, cross this line,

and you'll lose that precious head of yours!

Ah!

The mononoke.

It's here.

Wait! Hold on!

Ah! This is an emergency! Emergency!

Further in?

Hey! You can't go... in... What the...

- What happened? - My kaleidoscope.

Master Sakashita!

- Where's the intruder? - Huh?

- Madam Awashima! - Huh?

- So it's up there. - No! Don't leave me!

Madam Awashima!

Said she heard an awful scream that sounded like Madam Mugitani.

Has it gone?

Is dangerou...

What's going on in...

Kame!

She's still breathing.

Was Lady Kame the only one here?

I believe Madam Mugitani was also in this room.

It's helpful that you're so calm.

Please tell me she's not...

No, she'll wake up any mo...

- It would seem... - Huh?

...that I didn't quite make it in time.

- You hear that rumbling sound? - What the heck is it?

Mugitani.

Trust me...

- ...this isn't the work of any human. - Huh?

- Who the devil are you? - Not the work of a human?

Oh, I'm just... a medicine seller.

You're guilty of intruding into the Ōoku

and willfully sowing disorder and chaos!

Put that away.

You're dealing with something that cannot be slain by that sword.

This is the work of a mononoke.

- A mono... - Noke?

The cause of all these apparitions.

- Apparitions? - No such things in the Ōoku!

- Please stand aside. - Ah!

Let me handle this mononoke.

The wet floor leaves the shape of a circle as it dries.

Which tells me... the name of this Ayakashi...

...before it became a mononoke...

- Hmm? - ...was Karakasa.

Madam Mugitani.

Do you... guys hear that?

I have acquired... its Form.

What are you talking about?

I cannot rid you of these apparitions if I do not first slay the mononoke.

The kaleidoscope...

However, a mononoke cannot be slain using any mere human weapon.

Huh?

This is one of the eight swords

representing Yin and Yang.

This one is named Kon.

A masterpiece from the realm of Shuga, entrusted to us 64 guardians.

It's known by another name.

The Sacred Sword!

Then why haven't you slain it with your sword if it's so powerful?

Certain conditions must be met in order to draw it.

- What are they? - It requires Form, Truth, and Reason.

Without these three elements,

I will not be able to draw the sword.

Truth is the way things appear.

Reason is the true motives

and passions that smolder beneath the surface here at the Ōoku.

So you're saying all you need to kill this mononoke

is to present the sword with these three elements?

That's correct.

But in order to present these three elements...

- Sakashita. - Ma'am!

- Please provide this man with a pass. - Madam Utayama?

I want you to destroy this thing you call "Karakasa."

Hmm.

You are not to speak a word of tonight's incident to anyone.

And until the ceremony is over,

if anyone asks of Mugitani, she's alive and well.

Huh?

Understood, Awashima?

Yes, madam. I understand.

Ladies and gentlemen of the room, to save the Ōoku, I shall require...

...that you share your Truths with me along with your Reasons.

DAY FOUR

♪ All manner of misfortune ♪

- ♪ Sin... ♪ - Huh?

♪ And defilement... ♪

♪ Purify... ♪

Is the water delicious, heavenly maiden?

No.

Out, Water Goddess.

♪ Grant us good fortune... ♪

All I ask is that you could please wait before dismissing Lady Kame.

Hmm.

There is no place for the weak

or those who cannot devote themselves entirely to the Ōoku.

Who these individuals are becomes clear within the first three days.

Hmm. Very well. I will let you deal with Lady Kame.

Uh...

Who's that guy?

A peddler from the Nanatsu Gate.

I have an important announcement.

Madam Mugitani has suddenly and unfortunately had to return home.

- What the... - Are you seeing this too?

She left early this morning and regrets that she couldn't say goodbye.

Look.

She who carries the heavy burden on her shoulders

will gain strength to climb the next step.

I would like to appoint Asa as head housemaid

and have her take over from Mugitani in her absence.

She's gonna be head housemaid?

Has this ever happened before?

Lady Asa.

Can you carry that burden?

Please, madam,

leave it to me.

That maidservant never actually made it home.

What are you saying?

That missing maidservant's name...

What on earth is a peddler doing in the Ōoku?

You're lucky you still have your head.

Why don't you ask Madam Utayama why I'm here?

Madam Utayama is a powerful political figure.

I'd like to reach that level of success.

A sword?

I'd like to ask you about a certain maidservant.

Does the water taste good?

Lady Kitagawa.

Sometimes, one must discard something cherished

so we can move forward.

I wonder, Lady Asa, what you will discard.

Everything I once had, I actually yearned to discard.

But some things must not be discarded.

Such a thing may not even be...

Tangible.

Once it's discarded, you'll dry up inside.

I guess I do have something I wish to protect from drying out.

That is why I must throw it away.

Lady Asa.

Mm.

I don't want to...

I don't want to meet with Madam Mugitani.

I can't do it.

You don't have to. You can work with me today.

Do you think you would enjoy that more?

You mean it?

Mm-hmm.

Someone must attend to the ceremony guests.

Do you think you're up to the task?

Madam Utayama, do not forget I am not your subordinate.

As an Otomo,

I'm here to balance the dynamics between the Ōoku and those on the outside.

A stern response.

Hmm?

Oh!

Oh!

Remember this.

We maidservants must never approach the night chamber.

Those are the rules of the Ōoku.

Is this guy a magician?

- What's happening? - Hmm.

Karakasa is nearby. I feel it.

Karakasa?

I've got you now.

I'm beginning to wonder

if your aim is to endanger my position

by creating all of these problems.

Such neat handwriting.

I don't mean to!

After meeting Asa here at the Ōoku, I knew I was never gonna make it.

That I couldn't do things as well as she does,

that I'd never be able to measure up.

At this rate, I'll be forced to leave any day now.

That's why... I thought if I could catch His Majesty's eye...

Are you sabotaging me

because we made you throw away your grandmother's beloved comb?

- Huh? - Tell me the truth!

There is no mononoke, is there?

Hmm? What's a mononoke?

I'd wager you and Lady Asa hid Mugitani somewhere, didn't you?

Madam, I don't know what you're talking about. I...

Lady Asa put you up to everything, didn't she?

You think you can come here and do whatever you want

and shirk any responsibility you don't like?

There's nothing more cowardly!

You're a selfish, spoiled brat who doesn't belong here!

Is this a dream?

Just follow him!

Those eyes! So power-hungry!

Why do you favor her over me?

Tell me why, Madam Utayama!

I never wanted to throw it away!

Forgive me!

No! No!

It won't open!

Someone help me!

I'm sorry!

I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!

I'm sorry! I'm so...

I'll see to it

this foolish girl

learns her lesson.

The Medicine Seller and those two inspectors

are causing chaos.

How so?

- Saying there's a mononoke! - Hm.

- What is that? - Stay back!

Take her!

Hold on!

It's too late... for this one.

Transforming humans into rainwater?

You'll find Lady Kame by the earthen floor.

Huh?

Kame!

Two months ago,

a maidservant went missing from the Ōoku.

That maidservant was alleged to have been sent back home.

But then she disappeared off the face of the Earth,

and nobody knows where she went.

You need to tell us the truth.

Did Madam Mugitani really go home this morning?

The Birth Celebratory Ceremony

was postponed two months ago as well.

None of this is a coincidence, is it?

Not yet.

It's close.

Do you hear that sound?

Don't pry into matters that don't concern you.

I thought I told you it's been reported to Councilor Otomo.

Reveal to me... the name...

...of the missing maidservant.

- Lady Kitagawa is... - The former official scribe of the Ōoku...

...Lady Kitagawa!

I have acquired its Truth.

Lady Kitagawa is its Truth?

The mononoke.

It's here!

What is that?

What you're seeing is

the mononoke, Karakasa!

Forgive me!

This isn't the worst to come.

It hasn't attained its final form.

Once Karakasa materializes in this world, it will become unstoppable.

Awashima?

What in the world is happening here at the Ōoku?

- The show goes on! - What?

The ceremony will proceed as planned!

I can't handle it! This is all too scary!

Asa, don't let go of my hand till the sun comes up!

- Mm-hmm. - It's a promise!

If you let go, I won't speak to you again.

I promise I won't let go.

No matter what!

By the way, I talked to Lady Kitagawa.

Wait. Wait. Hold on.

What do you mean you talked to her?

I mustn't dry out.

What?

- That's what I learned. - Uh...

Thanks to Lady Kitagawa, I realized what was important,

what I should never throw away.

Well, that's great!

Mm-hmm.

- So what was it? - Uh...

The thing that's important to you.

I can't say.

Aw!

Come on! Tell me!

Tell me! Tell me! Tell me! Tell me! Come on! Please! Please, please, please!

Kame, there is something I want to tell you.

Hmm? What is it?

It's something really important.

THE DAY OF THE BIRTH CELEBRATORY CEREMONY

Please, I ask you not to get in our way.

I don't understand. What are you saying?

Madam Awashima passed away after the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.

But why?

A Birth Celebratory Ceremony seems like just a duty,

but it's a duty into which many have poured their entire heart and soul.

What are you saying? Can a duty be that important?

I should ask you the same thing.

Wasn't your real duty to find something to bring down Madam Utayama?

Lady Asa...

I'll send a messenger later.

Your duty shall have to wait until tomorrow.

We'll have no disturbances. I'll see to that myself.

No matter what it takes.

♪ Grant us good fortune... ♪

A little birdie told me you spoke with Lady Kitagawa?

Sorry to gossip, but I thought the medicine seller

might be able to protect you, Asa.

If we put our heads together,

we can determine the mononoke's Reason.

I likely won't be of much help. I don't know what happened to her.

But...

But what?

It's strange, but I think I'm starting

to truly understand Lady Kitagawa's feelings.

- Her feelings? - Huh?

Interesting.

I wish I could give you something more useful. I'm sorry.

It actually helps more than you think.

But the real mystery to solve is Madam Utayama.

- Why is she now pushing for the ceremony... - Good question.

...despite the Ōoku being plagued by apparitions?

This is the Ōoku.

There are times when one must suppress their own feelings for the sake of duty.

I discern whether or not a person can be entrusted with important roles here

based on whether or not they're capable of that.

Like for Lady Kitagawa.

That's right.

Which means the mononoke's next victim will be...

Madam, the apparitions might cease if you canceled the ceremony.

Like you did two months ago.

Is that what you think?

Madam Utayama...

I believe that it's our duty.

You're right.

The mononoke is scary!

What about the ceremony?

Are you joking? People have died. Surely it can't be held.

The Birth Celebratory Ceremony will still go ahead as planned.

That apparition did a number on her.

- In place of the late Madam Awashima... - She looked like a mummified monk.

Madam Awashima must have endured so much pain.

The day of the ceremony is upon us.

I ask of you... please give me your full cooperation.

Huh?

Hmm.

Let us bring honor to His Majesty...

- Gotta say, she's becoming pretty bold. - ...the consort and their child...

...by ensuring this ceremony proceeds...

- Very bold. - ...without a hitch.

Now let's commence the Birth Celebratory Ceremony!

Everyone, report to your positions!

Understood, ma'am.

One, two! Rice ball, make way!

Rice ball, make way!

Rice ball, make way! Rice ball!

Do you find anticipating the event lasts longer than the actual event?

The longer you do this,

you'll find that time stops for nothing and no one.

Doesn't seem fair that you can't participate.

It's fine.

That's life for those of us behind the scenes.

At least if I'm here, then when the mononoke...

I remember what you told me when we first met.

That as I went on, I would develop a higher perspective.

You were right, Madam Utayama.

Any suffering I endured before the Ōoku

now seems insignificant and so far away.

The perspective of those who stand above others...

...you learn what's important.

I saw a version of myself that wasn't fazed by anything.

Rice balls, make way!

However, something also kept me grounded,

in touch with my emotions.

That thing...

...was Lady Kame.

Speaking of, have you decided how to deal with her?

I instructed Lady Kame in writing that she must leave the Ōoku.

...wear a beautiful kimono, and show His Majesty...

You didn't let emotion sway you. You made the right decision.

And yet, I yearned for nothing more than to share meals with Kame.

And spend countless nights just staying up late,

giggling and talking to her.

I owe it to Lady Kitagawa.

To Kitagawa?

Anyone at all!

Madam Utayama!

Is the mononoke here?

I... I threw it away.

Medicine Seller!

If we don't slay it soon, it's over!

Tell me the Reason! If I'm not able to draw my sword, we're done for!

Madam Utayama!

What is it? What'd you throw away?

What?

We're out of time!

It's trying to get through to this side!

Tell me!

I need to know why Karakasa's after you!

I have no idea!

The ceiling!

Here I go!

Saburomaru. Where'd he go?

Uh...

I'm all dried out.

That's Lady Kitagawa?

Lady Kitagawa!

Kitagawa?

Nothing left.

Huh?

I'm all dried out.

So that's her. Lady Kitagawa.

And now Karakasa.

It's manifesting

in this world!

Huh?

When they forced me

to throw away my cherished possession,

I didn't hesitate.

If I cast it away,

I thought I'd become... a different person.

Madam Utayama showed me favor.

I steadily rose through the Ōoku's ranks.

There was another girl who entered the Ōoku at the same time.

She struggled to fit in and couldn't seem to do anything right.

I became increasingly irritated with her.

The day I was given an important role in the ceremony...

I told her to leave the Ōoku

so I'd have less to worry about... and could focus better on my duties.

Why, that's what I thought.

But

I was wrong.

I turned inward to discover what had changed within me...

...and realized... there was nothing left inside.

I was dried out.

Before I knew it,

I had lost the will to perform my duties.

So I lost my position.

And before long, I couldn't even leave my room.

My soul felt barren and parched.

I must have thrown part of it away.

Something important.

I had thrown it... in the well.

Huh?

No, look out!

Kame, don't let go...

Asa, hold on!

It'll be... all right!

I've got you!

Kitagawa?

Lady Kitagawa said to make sure...

that I never let myself dry out.

Does she hold a grudge?

No.

I don't believe Lady Kitagawa harbors a grudge

against anyone at all!

It is... my duty.

For the sake... of the Ōoku,

I will fulfill my duty!

It stinks.

The Reason

has been revealed.

I offer Form,

Truth, and Reason.

With these three things, my sword awakens!

Now, release yourself, Kon!

Releasing!

Karakasa.

Prepare to be cut down,

purified, and laid to rest.

This is not your world, mononoke.

Flash strike!

Forgive me.

Down we go!

- Is that the mononoke? - Hey!

Why don't we go together?

Guess what! I know what your important thing is now.

- I gotta go! - Uh... Huh?

All right, then.

I made it. I'll do my duty with honor.

Are you ready?

Ready!

Ready!

Ready!

Time for a new adventure.

Now I take my leave.

Hmm.

Medicine Seller!

Huh...

- Uh... - Hmm?

I sense it.

Its Form, though, is still unseen.

How wonderful. She's smiling.

Uh.

PART TWO

TO BE CONTINUED IN "THE ASHES OF RAGE"

THE PHANTOM IN THE RAIN

THE END