1
00:00:13,972 --> 00:00:18,268
Never speak of what you see or hear
inside the Ōoku to anyone,
2
00:00:18,351 --> 00:00:22,856
not least to your parents or siblings.
- From The Ōoku Code
3
00:00:24,065 --> 00:00:26,067
[birdsong]
4
00:00:29,279 --> 00:00:32,032
[child] Sadakichi!
Wait, where are you going?
5
00:00:32,115 --> 00:00:34,075
A secret spot for my eyes only!
6
00:00:34,159 --> 00:00:36,119
You watch yourself, Sadakichi!
7
00:00:36,202 --> 00:00:38,830
The wilderness is no place
for a lone child!
8
00:00:38,913 --> 00:00:41,416
[woman] Return home
before the sun sets, all right?
9
00:00:41,499 --> 00:00:43,209
[Sadakichi] Don't worry, I will!
10
00:00:44,419 --> 00:00:47,839
That child! Playing doesn't
help him learn to work the fields.
11
00:00:57,807 --> 00:01:01,269
[laughs] I found it! It's an otsugatake!
12
00:01:01,352 --> 00:01:03,354
The very first mushroom of the season!
13
00:01:03,438 --> 00:01:06,441
They say that eating the first find
will prolong your life.
14
00:01:06,524 --> 00:01:08,943
So I'll make sure my ma eats it. [sniffs]
15
00:01:09,444 --> 00:01:11,112
- [rustling]
- [gasps] Who's there?
16
00:01:12,197 --> 00:01:13,448
[clicking and rustling]
17
00:01:14,699 --> 00:01:16,618
[snuffling]
18
00:01:18,703 --> 00:01:19,871
Oh!
19
00:01:20,789 --> 00:01:21,789
Oh!
20
00:01:24,209 --> 00:01:25,627
[growling]
21
00:01:25,710 --> 00:01:27,128
[whimpering]
22
00:01:29,464 --> 00:01:31,216
Sadakichi!
23
00:01:32,759 --> 00:01:35,303
[narrator] As Sadakichi drew
his last breath,
24
00:01:35,386 --> 00:01:39,432
abnormalities began cropping up through
the village in the days that followed.
25
00:01:41,768 --> 00:01:43,978
[groaning]
26
00:01:46,564 --> 00:01:48,024
- Hey, Pa?
- Hmm?
27
00:01:48,108 --> 00:01:50,527
I feel terribly weak, and I'm burning up.
28
00:01:50,610 --> 00:01:53,488
First, Otokichi,
the eldest brother of Sadakichi,
29
00:01:53,571 --> 00:01:56,533
came down with a high fever
of unknown cause.
30
00:01:57,367 --> 00:02:01,204
Shortly after,
red pustules spread over his entire body.
31
00:02:01,788 --> 00:02:03,289
Four days later, he died.
32
00:02:03,998 --> 00:02:07,252
Two days afterward, the second son,
Matasuke, passed away.
33
00:02:07,836 --> 00:02:10,839
Their father, Otomatsu,
contracted it six days later.
34
00:02:11,381 --> 00:02:15,176
Sadakichi's mother, Seki,
and his little sister Tei were spared,
35
00:02:15,260 --> 00:02:17,345
but Seki knew what was happening.
36
00:02:17,887 --> 00:02:21,057
The god of the mountain must have
punished Sadakichi with a plague,
37
00:02:21,141 --> 00:02:22,851
and her son brought it
back to the village.
38
00:02:22,934 --> 00:02:23,934
[whimpers]
39
00:02:24,477 --> 00:02:27,230
The plague rapidly spread
to the neighboring village.
40
00:02:27,730 --> 00:02:30,316
Shortly after,
it swept to the village beyond.
41
00:02:31,192 --> 00:02:35,947
Only the men, and the young men at that,
were affected by this terrible disease.
42
00:02:36,030 --> 00:02:38,658
Eight out of every ten perished in agony.
43
00:02:39,325 --> 00:02:41,744
In a few years, this plague
from a mountain village
44
00:02:41,828 --> 00:02:43,746
spread to all of the Kanto region.
45
00:02:44,622 --> 00:02:46,875
It continued its devastation westward.
46
00:02:47,375 --> 00:02:50,253
And, as there were no means
to combat this disease,
47
00:02:50,336 --> 00:02:53,464
the population of men
declined at a frightening rate.
48
00:02:56,426 --> 00:02:59,721
The plague came to be known
as "red-face smallpox,"
49
00:02:59,804 --> 00:03:01,556
and took root in the country.
50
00:03:01,639 --> 00:03:02,849
DEITY OF RED-FACE SMALLPOX
51
00:03:04,058 --> 00:03:05,852
[dramatic music]
52
00:03:05,935 --> 00:03:09,230
After nearly 80 years
of ravaging the country,
53
00:03:09,314 --> 00:03:13,943
the population of men slowly
stabilized at one-fourth that of women.
54
00:03:14,444 --> 00:03:18,448
Women became the labor force
in every aspect of daily society.
55
00:03:19,157 --> 00:03:22,368
All trades and occupations
passed from mother to daughter.
56
00:03:22,452 --> 00:03:24,746
The institution of marriage collapsed.
57
00:03:25,455 --> 00:03:28,583
Instead, women paid for men
in the pleasure district
58
00:03:28,666 --> 00:03:30,919
if they had any desire to bear children.
59
00:03:31,461 --> 00:03:35,215
Getting your own husband became a symbol
of privileged status,
60
00:03:35,298 --> 00:03:38,885
reserved only for samurai,
rich merchants, and village headmen.
61
00:03:38,968 --> 00:03:42,305
I can't believe it! It sounds like
I'll actually be able to get a husband!
62
00:03:42,388 --> 00:03:44,974
- [giggles]
- You're so lucky, I wish I could have one!
63
00:03:45,475 --> 00:03:48,728
Ever since the reign
of the third shogun Iemitsu,
64
00:03:48,811 --> 00:03:51,814
women have inherited
the powerful position of shogun.
65
00:03:55,026 --> 00:03:58,112
Due to the bureaucratization
of the samurai society,
66
00:03:58,196 --> 00:04:02,700
inverting the roles previously
held by men to women was a simple feat.
67
00:04:04,994 --> 00:04:06,412
[jingling]
68
00:04:07,997 --> 00:04:12,418
Our liege has arrived! She will grace us
with her presence for a morning audience!
69
00:04:17,674 --> 00:04:21,886
[man] Bow in reverence!
Her Highness has arrived!
70
00:04:21,970 --> 00:04:23,972
[dramatic music intensifies]
71
00:04:39,821 --> 00:04:41,614
In a time of male scarcity,
72
00:04:41,698 --> 00:04:44,742
only the ruler of the land
and supreme leader of the country
73
00:04:44,826 --> 00:04:46,744
was allowed the highest luxury...
74
00:04:46,828 --> 00:04:47,828
Men.
75
00:04:48,496 --> 00:04:53,251
Inside the castle was a palace, wherein
3,000 young, beautiful men lived,
76
00:04:53,334 --> 00:04:56,212
all of which were
off-limits to any other woman.
77
00:04:56,296 --> 00:04:59,757
The Inner Chambers, or the Ōoku.
78
00:05:02,635 --> 00:05:08,224
ŌOKU: THE INNER CHAMBERS
79
00:05:08,308 --> 00:05:09,434
[man] Get out my way!
80
00:05:09,517 --> 00:05:13,062
It is now the reign
of the seventh shogun, Ietsugu.
81
00:05:13,146 --> 00:05:14,230
EDO: APRIL, 1716
82
00:05:14,314 --> 00:05:16,232
[men grunting, wood clattering]
83
00:05:16,316 --> 00:05:18,985
[yells] I... I yield!
84
00:05:19,068 --> 00:05:21,988
I surrender, Yunoshin.
I give up, so have mercy!
85
00:05:22,071 --> 00:05:22,989
Come on now!
86
00:05:23,072 --> 00:05:26,242
Mitamura-san, I know
you dropped your wooden sword on purpose.
87
00:05:26,326 --> 00:05:27,994
I have no doubt you could keep going.
88
00:05:28,077 --> 00:05:29,287
- Ready?
- [yelps]
89
00:05:29,370 --> 00:05:30,747
- Just let me lose!
- [laughter]
90
00:05:30,830 --> 00:05:32,808
- [woman] I believe that's enough, sir.
- [all] Huh?
91
00:05:32,832 --> 00:05:37,253
Not everyone wants to push themselves
so hard! Be careful not to fall ill.
92
00:05:37,337 --> 00:05:38,880
What was that, O-Nobu?
93
00:05:39,464 --> 00:05:41,632
Unless you have a reason
for me to stop, then I...
94
00:05:41,716 --> 00:05:44,260
- [Nobu sighs]
- [all] Hooray! Training's over!
95
00:05:46,929 --> 00:05:47,847
A shame.
96
00:05:47,930 --> 00:05:51,684
Mitamura-san has a good aptitude for
it. He just lacks the zeal. Or rather...
97
00:05:51,768 --> 00:05:52,768
[slurping] Mmm!
98
00:05:52,810 --> 00:05:55,146
He doesn't really take
swordsmanship seriously.
99
00:05:55,229 --> 00:05:56,731
Does that surprise you at all?
100
00:05:56,814 --> 00:05:58,858
We are far removed from a time of war.
101
00:05:58,941 --> 00:06:01,819
Now swordsmanship is
little more than a hobby for samurai.
102
00:06:01,903 --> 00:06:05,490
Is that so? You're likely sitting there
thinking I should dance or sing,
103
00:06:05,573 --> 00:06:08,076
since that'll make me
more popular with the ladies?
104
00:06:08,159 --> 00:06:09,160
Oh, no, not at all.
105
00:06:10,161 --> 00:06:13,164
Watching you practice there,
with a sword... I liked it.
106
00:06:15,249 --> 00:06:18,127
It... it's just that,
while men are stronger than women,
107
00:06:18,211 --> 00:06:20,129
your constitution is weaker than ours.
108
00:06:20,213 --> 00:06:22,632
I worry you might push yourself too hard
and get sick.
109
00:06:22,715 --> 00:06:24,967
[laughs] I guess I'm an exception, then.
110
00:06:25,051 --> 00:06:26,260
Mmm! Mmm.
111
00:06:26,844 --> 00:06:29,722
Even so, you are already popular.
112
00:06:31,265 --> 00:06:33,142
It happens all the time.
113
00:06:33,226 --> 00:06:35,937
I've seen women flock to you,
asking for your seed,
114
00:06:36,020 --> 00:06:38,189
and you haven't refused a single one.
115
00:06:38,272 --> 00:06:40,191
[gentle music]
116
00:06:40,274 --> 00:06:43,277
Even in this day and age,
you don't ask for payment.
117
00:06:43,361 --> 00:06:47,281
You know that's why they all come to me,
right? It's not that I'm popular. Mmm.
118
00:06:51,035 --> 00:06:52,954
You would say that, wouldn't you?
119
00:06:53,037 --> 00:06:56,999
With features such as yours, you could
have your pick of any woman you desired.
120
00:06:57,083 --> 00:06:59,419
Yet you only choose to help poor women.
121
00:06:59,502 --> 00:07:01,212
It is a great kindness.
122
00:07:03,631 --> 00:07:07,301
If my dear childhood friend had any wish
that I would bed her,
123
00:07:07,385 --> 00:07:08,719
I wouldn't mind it at all.
124
00:07:09,303 --> 00:07:10,303
Hmm...
125
00:07:15,852 --> 00:07:19,397
Enough of that! Such an option
is out of the question, as you know.
126
00:07:19,480 --> 00:07:21,315
[laughs] Course I do.
127
00:07:21,399 --> 00:07:24,360
The heiress of Tajima-ya,
the medicinal herb seller.
128
00:07:24,444 --> 00:07:27,363
Your only choice for a husband
is another well-to-do merchant.
129
00:07:27,447 --> 00:07:31,451
You can't be caught foolin' around with
the son of a poor hatamoto like myself.
130
00:07:34,662 --> 00:07:36,038
Listen, O-Nobu.
131
00:07:36,122 --> 00:07:40,251
Those women who come to me, they're not
sleeping with me out of love or affection.
132
00:07:40,334 --> 00:07:42,253
The only thing they want is a child.
133
00:07:42,336 --> 00:07:45,173
On their hands and knees,
they beg me with tears in their eyes.
134
00:07:45,256 --> 00:07:47,049
All because they want a purpose in life.
135
00:07:47,842 --> 00:07:51,137
How could I say no?
How could I not lend them my help?
136
00:07:53,347 --> 00:07:55,641
There's a name
for someone who acts like that.
137
00:07:56,142 --> 00:07:59,312
A womanizing lecher
who cannot keep it in his pants.
138
00:07:59,395 --> 00:08:01,564
- [gasps] Are... are you kidding me?
- Hmph!
139
00:08:01,647 --> 00:08:04,775
I'm doing this out of mercy
and compassion! I'm basically Buddha...
140
00:08:04,859 --> 00:08:07,570
- [Nobu] Mmm-mmm!
- [woman] Young master!
141
00:08:07,653 --> 00:08:09,572
[breathing heavily]
142
00:08:09,655 --> 00:08:11,699
Oh. It's O-Take-san.
143
00:08:11,782 --> 00:08:13,659
Nanny O-Take. Is somethin' wrong?
144
00:08:14,160 --> 00:08:17,079
[woman] Yunoshin! This is amazing!
145
00:08:17,163 --> 00:08:20,082
You have received
a fantastic marriage proposal!
146
00:08:22,168 --> 00:08:23,377
[wails] Why?
147
00:08:23,461 --> 00:08:24,837
- What's that attitude?
- Huh?
148
00:08:24,921 --> 00:08:27,673
When your mother tells you such a thing,
you are to react graciously
149
00:08:27,757 --> 00:08:31,093
and say, "Yes, Mother, thank you for
taking care of me," and do as I say.
150
00:08:31,928 --> 00:08:35,389
The offer is coming from Governor
Miura's daughter of the Hizen province,
151
00:08:35,473 --> 00:08:37,350
who commissions temples and shrines.
152
00:08:37,934 --> 00:08:39,685
You've already reached 19.
153
00:08:39,769 --> 00:08:42,772
A good match such as this one
will not come around twice.
154
00:08:42,855 --> 00:08:44,607
Do you object to the proposal?
155
00:08:44,690 --> 00:08:46,192
[sighs]
156
00:08:47,443 --> 00:08:49,195
It's not that I'm against it.
157
00:08:49,278 --> 00:08:50,613
I find it all dull...
158
00:08:50,696 --> 00:08:53,282
How you happen to "find it"
has no bearing on the matter!
159
00:08:53,366 --> 00:08:55,826
Your job is to marry
into a respectable family,
160
00:08:55,910 --> 00:08:58,162
where you are to produce
as many children as you can
161
00:08:58,246 --> 00:08:59,539
and be grateful for a good life!
162
00:08:59,622 --> 00:09:01,374
I'm not disagreeing with you, Mother.
163
00:09:01,457 --> 00:09:04,418
But shouldn't you look for a
decent husband for my older sister first?
164
00:09:04,502 --> 00:09:05,502
Gah!
165
00:09:06,295 --> 00:09:09,006
You need not concern yourself
with your sister's prospects.
166
00:09:09,090 --> 00:09:12,885
Finding Shino a suitable gentleman to
marry is a task I will handle in due time.
167
00:09:12,969 --> 00:09:15,388
- Even though we have no money?
- [parents gasp]
168
00:09:15,471 --> 00:09:18,891
Yunoshin, you don't need to worry
about what I'll do.
169
00:09:18,975 --> 00:09:22,562
A husband might be a stretch. Though I'm
sure we could pay someone for his seed...
170
00:09:22,645 --> 00:09:23,563
Shut your mouth!
171
00:09:23,646 --> 00:09:27,900
A daughter of a respectable vassal family
of the shogun should not say such things!
172
00:09:28,484 --> 00:09:30,987
- [both] Hmm?
- The only concerns you need care about
173
00:09:31,070 --> 00:09:32,780
are the ones regarding yourself.
174
00:09:32,863 --> 00:09:33,906
[Yunoshin] Mother.
175
00:09:34,490 --> 00:09:38,494
Long have I wanted to express
my sincerest gratitude to you.
176
00:09:38,578 --> 00:09:39,778
- [Shino] Hmm?
- [father gasps]
177
00:09:40,329 --> 00:09:43,040
[Yunoshin] When the son
of a poor samurai household becomes a man,
178
00:09:43,124 --> 00:09:44,724
it is all too common in this day and age
179
00:09:44,792 --> 00:09:47,587
to rent them to rich families
by the night to survive.
180
00:09:47,670 --> 00:09:49,171
So I am grateful to you.
181
00:09:49,255 --> 00:09:52,508
You, my mother,
never sold my body to anyone.
182
00:09:52,592 --> 00:09:53,926
Not a single time.
183
00:09:54,635 --> 00:09:58,264
I am truly grateful
for the protection you gave me.
184
00:10:03,311 --> 00:10:07,690
And this is why I would ask that you allow
me to repay that kindness in turn, Mother.
185
00:10:07,773 --> 00:10:09,233
[all gasp]
186
00:10:09,317 --> 00:10:12,403
There is an option
that will provide a greater reward
187
00:10:12,486 --> 00:10:14,238
than marrying to become a husband.
188
00:10:15,072 --> 00:10:16,449
You're not saying...
189
00:10:17,158 --> 00:10:18,200
Hmph!
190
00:10:18,784 --> 00:10:20,578
To serve at the Ōoku.
191
00:10:20,661 --> 00:10:23,372
The Inner Chamber of Edo Castle,
under our shogun.
192
00:10:23,456 --> 00:10:26,042
It is said that 3,000
beautiful men serve her
193
00:10:26,125 --> 00:10:28,044
where no other woman may enter its halls.
194
00:10:28,127 --> 00:10:31,964
So I ask your permission that I be allowed
to enter service at the Ōoku.
195
00:10:32,048 --> 00:10:34,216
- [all gasp]
- At the Ōoku?
196
00:10:34,842 --> 00:10:37,511
If I work in the Ōoku,
you would have one less mouth to feed,
197
00:10:37,595 --> 00:10:39,889
as well as the compensation
for my service.
198
00:10:39,972 --> 00:10:41,557
I could send the money home.
199
00:10:42,058 --> 00:10:45,227
Then it would be simple
for my dear sister to have a husband.
200
00:10:46,062 --> 00:10:50,232
Please, I humbly beg of you.
Allow my wish to be granted.
201
00:10:50,316 --> 00:10:51,442
[Shino sighs]
202
00:10:51,525 --> 00:10:53,235
Yunoshin, I...
203
00:10:53,819 --> 00:10:57,990
'Cause I kind of already asked my uncle
in Akasaka to put a word in for me.
204
00:10:58,074 --> 00:10:59,992
- [laughs]
- [Mother growls]
205
00:11:02,078 --> 00:11:04,080
[cicadas chirping]
206
00:11:07,083 --> 00:11:08,751
[poignant music]
207
00:11:10,086 --> 00:11:12,254
So it's true you're going to the Ōoku...
208
00:11:12,338 --> 00:11:14,006
I'm rather dashing, aren't I?
209
00:11:14,924 --> 00:11:16,342
You truly are going.
210
00:11:17,385 --> 00:11:19,261
I've heard that upon entering service,
211
00:11:19,345 --> 00:11:21,514
you will sooner die
than be able to leave again.
212
00:11:22,390 --> 00:11:23,265
Hmm.
213
00:11:23,349 --> 00:11:24,767
You got that right.
214
00:11:24,850 --> 00:11:28,104
I intend to advance through the ranks
and serve for the rest of my life.
215
00:11:28,187 --> 00:11:29,855
Know how women aren't allowed in there?
216
00:11:29,939 --> 00:11:32,608
I can only imagine how refreshing it'll be
not to stick around
217
00:11:32,692 --> 00:11:35,403
and deal with noisy women
like you and Mother all the time.
218
00:11:35,486 --> 00:11:37,363
I see! So you're just a scoundrel
219
00:11:37,446 --> 00:11:40,908
who wants to wear beautiful robes
and live in the lap of luxury, is that it?
220
00:11:40,991 --> 00:11:44,286
Of course that isn't it.
It's hard to see you every day...
221
00:11:44,370 --> 00:11:45,871
[gasps] Huh?
222
00:11:47,123 --> 00:11:48,958
...knowing the divide between us.
223
00:11:49,458 --> 00:11:52,294
Because we don't live in a world
where you and I could be together.
224
00:11:52,378 --> 00:11:53,504
[gasps]
225
00:11:59,885 --> 00:12:01,095
[gasps]
226
00:12:01,178 --> 00:12:02,596
[poignant music swells]
227
00:12:02,680 --> 00:12:04,640
[whimpering]
228
00:12:07,476 --> 00:12:08,811
[sobs]
229
00:12:19,572 --> 00:12:20,823
Find happiness.
230
00:12:20,906 --> 00:12:21,906
[gasps]
231
00:12:28,330 --> 00:12:29,331
[sobs]
232
00:12:33,753 --> 00:12:35,629
[weeping]
233
00:12:38,215 --> 00:12:40,176
[wails] Yunoshin!
234
00:12:41,552 --> 00:12:43,554
[birdsong]
235
00:12:46,807 --> 00:12:50,644
So these are the men's quarters
of Edo Castle. Wow.
236
00:12:58,235 --> 00:13:00,780
Today, I begin as a Page
in the Inner Chambers.
237
00:13:00,863 --> 00:13:02,990
My name is Mizuno Yunoshin. Sir.
238
00:13:03,073 --> 00:13:05,868
I am Matsushima,
a Groom of the Bedchamber.
239
00:13:05,951 --> 00:13:09,497
We have received a letter
of recommendation from your Uncle Mikumo.
240
00:13:10,289 --> 00:13:11,373
Follow me.
241
00:13:13,083 --> 00:13:15,878
- [tinkling]
- [thinks] Wow...
242
00:13:15,961 --> 00:13:18,881
Seems as though rumors of
the Ōoku Grooms were true.
243
00:13:18,964 --> 00:13:20,883
That's a good-looking man.
244
00:13:20,966 --> 00:13:25,638
Rumors have circulated that
the Ōoku is home to 3,000 beautiful men,
245
00:13:25,721 --> 00:13:28,891
but in reality, the number of men
who serve here at Edo Castle
246
00:13:28,974 --> 00:13:30,851
doesn't even come close to 800.
247
00:13:31,977 --> 00:13:35,481
There are primarily two groups
that divide up that 800 sum.
248
00:13:35,564 --> 00:13:39,026
Those who are considered omemie,
or worthy of Her Highness's sight,
249
00:13:39,109 --> 00:13:40,236
and those who are not.
250
00:13:40,319 --> 00:13:42,738
From that division, there are ranks.
251
00:13:43,823 --> 00:13:47,243
[Yunoshin] Whether I look to the right,
or look to the left...
252
00:13:47,827 --> 00:13:50,746
everywhere, men, men, men.
253
00:13:51,831 --> 00:13:54,208
I've never seen so many in one place.
254
00:13:54,291 --> 00:13:55,543
[Matsushima grunts]
255
00:13:55,626 --> 00:13:56,752
- Huh?
- My hem.
256
00:13:57,336 --> 00:13:59,547
Oh! I beg your pardon, sir.
257
00:14:00,589 --> 00:14:03,801
Know this.
Among these men who serve in the Ōoku,
258
00:14:03,884 --> 00:14:07,096
there is one who holds more power
than the rest of us combined.
259
00:14:07,179 --> 00:14:11,225
And he is the Senior Chamberlain.
His name is Master Fujinami.
260
00:14:11,851 --> 00:14:15,688
The Senior Chamberlains are in charge
of every aspect, great and small,
261
00:14:15,771 --> 00:14:17,523
that happen within the Ōoku.
262
00:14:17,606 --> 00:14:20,025
Master Fujinami supersedes us all.
263
00:14:20,109 --> 00:14:21,527
That's intense!
264
00:14:21,610 --> 00:14:24,613
Guess being the Senior Chamberlain
would be a pretty difficult position.
265
00:14:24,697 --> 00:14:27,032
Especially for someone who's so elderly.
266
00:14:27,116 --> 00:14:29,994
Senior Chamberlain is nothing but a title.
267
00:14:30,077 --> 00:14:32,538
Master Fujinami is still in his 40s!
268
00:14:32,621 --> 00:14:33,831
The fault is mine.
269
00:14:33,914 --> 00:14:37,751
Although I suppose that means that
the Senior Councilors aren't all grannies?
270
00:14:37,835 --> 00:14:40,045
[groans] Regardless,
271
00:14:40,629 --> 00:14:44,592
a Page is beneath omemie rank, but it is
still the highest among the unworthy.
272
00:14:44,675 --> 00:14:47,052
Only sons of hatamoto
are allowed to work here.
273
00:14:47,636 --> 00:14:49,972
- You should remember that.
- Yes, sir!
274
00:14:50,514 --> 00:14:54,226
Also, you shall henceforth be called
by your surname, Mizuno.
275
00:14:54,310 --> 00:14:55,394
[gasps]
276
00:14:55,477 --> 00:14:57,813
From this moment on,
you are strictly forbidden
277
00:14:57,897 --> 00:15:00,816
from speaking of anything
you experience in the Ōoku.
278
00:15:00,900 --> 00:15:04,111
If your tongue slips, your head will fly.
279
00:15:04,194 --> 00:15:05,905
- Remember that.
- [gasps]
280
00:15:07,406 --> 00:15:09,408
[buzz of conversation]
281
00:15:12,411 --> 00:15:13,954
[man 1] Did you see that?
282
00:15:14,038 --> 00:15:15,331
Good day to you all!
283
00:15:15,414 --> 00:15:16,332
[all] Hmm?
284
00:15:16,415 --> 00:15:20,085
My name is Mizuno, and I'll be
joining you here in the Pages' Quarters.
285
00:15:20,169 --> 00:15:21,587
A pleasure to meet you.
286
00:15:22,254 --> 00:15:23,714
[laughter]
287
00:15:31,430 --> 00:15:32,723
Hey, newcomer.
288
00:15:32,806 --> 00:15:35,726
Please allow me to teach you
the intricacies of this place.
289
00:15:36,310 --> 00:15:38,979
The very first thing you must do is
shave your legs.
290
00:15:39,063 --> 00:15:42,024
- To shave... my legs?
- Quite so.
291
00:15:42,107 --> 00:15:45,235
In the Ōoku, personal appearance is
of utmost import.
292
00:15:45,319 --> 00:15:48,656
Our current shogun is only a young maiden
at seven years old,
293
00:15:48,739 --> 00:15:51,700
and as such, she finds great disdain
among hairy men.
294
00:15:51,784 --> 00:15:55,037
Ah. That does makes sense.
This is the Inner Palace.
295
00:15:55,120 --> 00:15:56,288
- [man 2] He's joking.
- Huh?
296
00:15:56,372 --> 00:15:57,998
They're just making fun of you.
297
00:15:58,082 --> 00:16:00,376
- [gasps]
- Come now, Sugishita.
298
00:16:00,459 --> 00:16:03,504
Don't be a spoilsport!
You ruined the game far too early.
299
00:16:03,587 --> 00:16:07,424
What a shame! We were hoping to have
a show of him shaving every last hair.
300
00:16:07,508 --> 00:16:10,511
[man 3] It's always amusing
to toy with ignorant country hicks.
301
00:16:10,594 --> 00:16:13,597
I wager he must be
from a poor hatamoto household,
302
00:16:13,681 --> 00:16:16,558
pushed into service
so they had one less mouth to feed.
303
00:16:16,642 --> 00:16:18,769
The way he dresses all but screams it.
304
00:16:18,852 --> 00:16:21,772
His kimono resembles
that of a fetid sewer-rat!
305
00:16:21,855 --> 00:16:23,691
Not to mention his topknot...
306
00:16:23,774 --> 00:16:27,778
It's narrow, while his tonsure is
large and wide. How unbecoming!
307
00:16:27,861 --> 00:16:30,280
Attempting to hide
a receding hairline, hmm?
308
00:16:30,906 --> 00:16:33,033
- [grunts]
- [man gasps]
309
00:16:33,117 --> 00:16:36,537
What the hell? You really think
I'm the unbecoming one, buttface?
310
00:16:36,620 --> 00:16:39,665
Back in times of war,
real samurai tonsured their heads
311
00:16:39,748 --> 00:16:41,875
to keep them cool
underneath the iron helmets.
312
00:16:41,959 --> 00:16:44,545
The way I've styled my hair
is the mark of a samurai!
313
00:16:44,628 --> 00:16:45,796
But look at you!
314
00:16:45,879 --> 00:16:49,550
Wearing a topknot in the style of a young
man at your age lacks far more in taste!
315
00:16:49,633 --> 00:16:53,095
Before you go yammerin' about youth,
why don't you look in the mirror?
316
00:16:53,178 --> 00:16:56,056
[splutters] How dare you say such things?
317
00:16:56,140 --> 00:16:59,393
Hah! Just so you know,
my topknot is slender on purpose.
318
00:16:59,476 --> 00:17:02,271
Guess you're out of touch,
'cause this is the latest style in Edo.
319
00:17:02,354 --> 00:17:04,648
While my kimono might not
be the highest quality,
320
00:17:04,732 --> 00:17:08,193
everyone and their brother in the capital
are after this brownish-gray.
321
00:17:08,277 --> 00:17:10,446
So who's the unsophisticated one now?
322
00:17:10,529 --> 00:17:11,572
Gah!
323
00:17:11,655 --> 00:17:14,491
[growling] Rude!
324
00:17:15,200 --> 00:17:16,702
I shan't stand for this!
325
00:17:16,785 --> 00:17:18,078
Oh, you wanna go?
326
00:17:18,162 --> 00:17:19,747
No skin off my nose, so bring it!
327
00:17:19,830 --> 00:17:22,416
I think that's quite enough bickering,
you two.
328
00:17:22,499 --> 00:17:24,334
Our afternoon duties start soon.
329
00:17:24,418 --> 00:17:26,962
- Soejima. You are aware of the rules.
- [growls]
330
00:17:27,546 --> 00:17:30,799
Disputes from personal grudges
are strictly forbidden.
331
00:17:30,883 --> 00:17:32,009
What would happen
332
00:17:32,092 --> 00:17:36,180
if Master Kaburagi, the First Page,
happened to come upon a scene like this?
333
00:17:36,805 --> 00:17:37,931
[grumbles]
334
00:17:41,560 --> 00:17:43,854
If anyone should be tsking,
it definitely ain't you!
335
00:17:43,937 --> 00:17:46,857
[laughing] Come now.
You must also practice restraint.
336
00:17:46,940 --> 00:17:49,693
- Almost everyone starts out this way.
- [sighs]
337
00:17:49,777 --> 00:17:51,653
Oh. I beg your pardon.
338
00:17:51,737 --> 00:17:53,489
I have not introduced myself.
339
00:17:54,156 --> 00:17:56,533
Well, then. My name is Sugishita.
340
00:17:56,617 --> 00:17:59,912
I have served here in the Pages' Quarters
for around ten years.
341
00:18:00,913 --> 00:18:03,332
Come now, you should change. This way.
342
00:18:05,584 --> 00:18:09,171
Pages all wear the same
blue kimono and hakama shirt.
343
00:18:09,254 --> 00:18:10,798
No carrying swords.
344
00:18:11,590 --> 00:18:15,511
The only ones who are allowed
are those ranked as the worthy omemie,
345
00:18:15,594 --> 00:18:17,513
and the fire guards who are on patrol.
346
00:18:18,430 --> 00:18:22,434
Now, then. Our first task at hand is
to clean the apartments of the omemie.
347
00:18:22,976 --> 00:18:25,813
The aim is to finish before they return
from their own duties,
348
00:18:25,896 --> 00:18:27,523
so their rooms are ready.
349
00:18:27,606 --> 00:18:29,691
Afterward, we tend to their needs,
350
00:18:29,775 --> 00:18:32,444
such as bringing hot and cold water
to their chambers.
351
00:18:32,528 --> 00:18:35,531
Our duties include running errands
and handling odd jobs.
352
00:18:35,614 --> 00:18:37,533
[lively music]
353
00:18:42,579 --> 00:18:45,833
You mustn't use the feather duster
like a rag and beat it like that.
354
00:18:45,916 --> 00:18:48,335
Their personal belongings are kept
in these chambers.
355
00:18:48,418 --> 00:18:51,046
You wouldn't want to risk
knocking down or breaking anything.
356
00:18:51,130 --> 00:18:53,382
So you'll need to gently wipe
the dust away.
357
00:18:56,885 --> 00:18:58,762
Yes, hold it carefully.
358
00:18:59,263 --> 00:19:01,890
This is how we incense
the robes of our masters.
359
00:19:02,891 --> 00:19:03,891
Hmm?
360
00:19:05,394 --> 00:19:09,481
Goodness, these chambers are filled with
all kinds of cats, goldfish, and critters.
361
00:19:09,565 --> 00:19:11,441
You will say "honorable cat."
362
00:19:11,525 --> 00:19:12,901
- That's the rule.
- [meows]
363
00:19:12,985 --> 00:19:13,985
Hmm.
364
00:19:16,905 --> 00:19:19,491
Once the masters return to their chambers,
365
00:19:19,575 --> 00:19:21,577
it is time for them to have
their evening meals.
366
00:19:21,660 --> 00:19:24,580
You will bring their dinner
to a chamber as instructed.
367
00:19:24,663 --> 00:19:26,456
As the treasured son of a hatamoto,
368
00:19:26,540 --> 00:19:29,293
you might not be used to doing
all these menial tasks.
369
00:19:29,376 --> 00:19:32,421
But not all jobs in the Ōoku are pleasing
or glorious.
370
00:19:32,921 --> 00:19:35,883
Well, I actually came from a poor family.
371
00:19:35,966 --> 00:19:39,636
It's nothing to boast about, but I've done
bathhouse and sewage board work.
372
00:19:39,720 --> 00:19:43,098
Aside from selling my body to women,
I've done just about everything.
373
00:19:43,182 --> 00:19:45,350
This stuff is easy by comparison.
374
00:19:45,434 --> 00:19:46,560
[sighs]
375
00:19:48,103 --> 00:19:49,438
Master Matsushima.
376
00:19:49,521 --> 00:19:51,565
I have brought you this evening's meal.
377
00:19:59,406 --> 00:20:02,117
My dinner was delivered to me
quite some time ago.
378
00:20:04,703 --> 00:20:05,704
Hmm?
379
00:20:07,206 --> 00:20:08,373
Anything else?
380
00:20:08,457 --> 00:20:11,335
[stammers] Nothing, sir.
Please excuse my mistake.
381
00:20:12,961 --> 00:20:14,087
You fool!
382
00:20:14,171 --> 00:20:17,216
You were supposed to go to the third wing,
not the second wing!
383
00:20:17,299 --> 00:20:19,635
- I instructed Soejima to tell you where!
- [all chuckling]
384
00:20:19,718 --> 00:20:22,638
- Deliver this! Don't you dare dawdle!
- [thinks] So disgustingly petty!
385
00:20:26,725 --> 00:20:27,893
Aww!
386
00:20:28,602 --> 00:20:31,146
You better get going!
387
00:20:31,230 --> 00:20:32,397
[Mizuno yelps]
388
00:20:32,481 --> 00:20:35,484
If you weren't so slow,
we would all be done already!
389
00:20:35,567 --> 00:20:37,402
- [all laughing]
- How inconsiderate.
390
00:20:37,486 --> 00:20:39,404
[breathing shakily]
391
00:20:40,197 --> 00:20:41,406
Listen here.
392
00:20:41,490 --> 00:20:45,077
Doesn't it bring a tear to your eye
with just how petty you all are?
393
00:20:45,160 --> 00:20:46,745
No? Well, I'll help you with that...
394
00:20:46,828 --> 00:20:49,873
Mizuno, you should focus on
cleaning up this mess, first!
395
00:20:49,957 --> 00:20:53,919
I will take care of bringing a new tray
of dinner to the third wing in your stead.
396
00:20:54,002 --> 00:20:55,921
[cicadas chirping]
397
00:20:56,004 --> 00:20:58,298
Fire guards passing through!
398
00:20:59,091 --> 00:21:02,177
Fire guards are making the rounds!
399
00:21:02,261 --> 00:21:04,596
Be mindful and vigilant!
400
00:21:04,680 --> 00:21:07,182
Keep watch over your embers!
401
00:21:13,855 --> 00:21:14,855
[grunts]
402
00:21:15,274 --> 00:21:16,942
- What do you lot want?
- [all growl]
403
00:21:17,025 --> 00:21:18,193
Hold him down!
404
00:21:19,528 --> 00:21:20,904
[struggling]
405
00:21:20,988 --> 00:21:22,072
Uh-oh.
406
00:21:22,155 --> 00:21:24,908
You won't be able to wiggle away
with two men holding you down.
407
00:21:24,992 --> 00:21:26,159
[grunts]
408
00:21:26,243 --> 00:21:27,911
[thinks] They're gonna beat me!
409
00:21:30,706 --> 00:21:31,832
[gasps]
410
00:21:36,628 --> 00:21:37,546
Huh?
411
00:21:37,629 --> 00:21:41,300
Hmm! Your face is rather pleasant
to look at.
412
00:21:41,883 --> 00:21:46,054
Whenever there's a cheeky newcomer that
gets above himself, we teach him a lesson.
413
00:21:46,138 --> 00:21:48,557
A lesson where you'll play the woman.
414
00:21:48,640 --> 00:21:50,058
Do you understand?
415
00:21:52,269 --> 00:21:53,270
[gasps]
416
00:21:55,272 --> 00:21:57,858
He's so shocked,
it seems he's lost his voice.
417
00:21:57,941 --> 00:22:00,193
- [chuckles]
- Would the two of you stop hogging him?
418
00:22:00,277 --> 00:22:01,570
Let me have a turn...
419
00:22:06,408 --> 00:22:08,577
[groans] That's my tooth!
420
00:22:11,955 --> 00:22:13,332
[all gasp]
421
00:22:13,415 --> 00:22:14,875
Are you insane?
422
00:22:14,958 --> 00:22:16,668
Drawing a sword in the Ōoku is strictly...
423
00:22:16,752 --> 00:22:17,878
- [Mizuno] Shut up!
- [gasps]
424
00:22:18,712 --> 00:22:21,298
If seppuku is the punishment that I face,
425
00:22:21,381 --> 00:22:24,551
then I will send all of you
to your graves before I go to hell.
426
00:22:24,634 --> 00:22:26,053
This is a promise.
427
00:22:26,136 --> 00:22:28,388
If you ever try this on me again,
428
00:22:28,472 --> 00:22:31,475
I will cut the three of you down
without a second thought.
429
00:22:31,975 --> 00:22:33,602
[all whimpering]
430
00:22:33,685 --> 00:22:36,396
- [Page 1] What's going on?
- [Page 2] Who's talking at this hour?
431
00:22:36,480 --> 00:22:39,483
You heard me. Now get back
in your beds and lay down.
432
00:22:39,566 --> 00:22:40,984
[all whimpering]
433
00:22:49,868 --> 00:22:51,036
[groans]
434
00:22:52,454 --> 00:22:53,997
Oh, O-Nobu...
435
00:22:54,081 --> 00:22:57,542
I... I think I may have ended up
in a horrible place.
436
00:23:07,511 --> 00:23:10,180
[Sugishita] It is commonplace
in the Inner Chambers.
437
00:23:10,263 --> 00:23:12,307
I have bedded with men
more than once myself.
438
00:23:12,891 --> 00:23:14,393
- [gasps] What?
- [meowing]
439
00:23:15,560 --> 00:23:17,104
That is mind-blowing.
440
00:23:17,187 --> 00:23:20,315
In Edo, a man has enough on his plate
trying to meet women's needs!
441
00:23:20,399 --> 00:23:24,236
You go without sleeping with a woman
for a month, and it makes more sense.
442
00:23:24,319 --> 00:23:26,738
Soejima's entourage
are out of the question.
443
00:23:26,822 --> 00:23:29,783
But it's easy to be tempted,
when it's a beautiful youth.
444
00:23:29,866 --> 00:23:31,660
[thinks] This is insane...
445
00:23:31,743 --> 00:23:35,622
One step out of Edo Castle, and there are
multitudes of women wanting children
446
00:23:35,705 --> 00:23:37,416
but lack the seed to have one.
447
00:23:38,125 --> 00:23:40,794
They don't have enough
money for even a single night.
448
00:23:41,420 --> 00:23:44,631
- [woman] Ah, thank you so much!
- [Mizuno] Oh, no, no. You don't need to.
449
00:23:44,714 --> 00:23:48,844
You were the only person kind enough to
grant such a wish for a person like me.
450
00:23:48,927 --> 00:23:51,555
I know I'm far beyond my best years
at this point,
451
00:23:51,638 --> 00:23:53,765
but I want to put my ma at ease.
452
00:23:53,849 --> 00:23:56,601
I apologize for being
such an old bag of bones.
453
00:23:56,685 --> 00:23:58,395
Mmph. Here goes...
454
00:23:58,478 --> 00:24:01,106
- Oh! Wait, I can't do anything yet.
- Mmm?
455
00:24:01,189 --> 00:24:04,359
Is something wrong, O-Yae?
Was there something you needed to do?
456
00:24:04,443 --> 00:24:06,361
[gasps] Dear gods and Buddhas,
457
00:24:06,445 --> 00:24:09,239
please give me a child,
please give me a child...
458
00:24:09,322 --> 00:24:11,032
[echoing] ...please give me a child...
459
00:24:13,243 --> 00:24:16,037
[Sugishita] Our current shogun is
only seven years of age.
460
00:24:16,121 --> 00:24:18,206
Not to mention, the population in the Ōoku
461
00:24:18,290 --> 00:24:20,375
is reverse of the outside,
with men to spare.
462
00:24:20,959 --> 00:24:21,959
[Mizuno] Hmm.
463
00:24:22,419 --> 00:24:25,380
We have a lot in common
with that goldfish you saw earlier.
464
00:24:25,964 --> 00:24:26,964
What?
465
00:24:28,133 --> 00:24:29,968
Our lives are vain and wasteful.
466
00:24:30,469 --> 00:24:33,597
The Ōoku is the glass goldfish bowl
we will spend our days in.
467
00:24:33,680 --> 00:24:35,390
We are kept as pets.
468
00:24:35,474 --> 00:24:39,436
Locking these men away,
their seeds spilt, wasted.
469
00:24:39,519 --> 00:24:41,897
That deliberate wastefulness,
470
00:24:41,980 --> 00:24:43,732
that needless luxury,
471
00:24:44,232 --> 00:24:46,359
is it not proof of Her Highness's might?
472
00:24:46,443 --> 00:24:47,569
[Mizuno sighs]
473
00:24:48,904 --> 00:24:50,113
[thinks] O-Nobu...
474
00:24:51,281 --> 00:24:52,824
this place is...
475
00:24:58,246 --> 00:25:00,165
- [yelling]
- Hmm?
476
00:25:00,248 --> 00:25:02,250
[wooden swords clattering]
477
00:25:05,253 --> 00:25:06,253
You're open!
478
00:25:06,963 --> 00:25:07,964
Hardly!
479
00:25:09,257 --> 00:25:10,342
- Huh?
- Yaah!
480
00:25:12,302 --> 00:25:13,637
[groans]
481
00:25:13,720 --> 00:25:15,555
[thinks] Well, well...
482
00:25:15,639 --> 00:25:18,850
I expected to see a bunch of wimps
whacking swords around, but...
483
00:25:18,934 --> 00:25:20,143
[fighters struggling]
484
00:25:20,727 --> 00:25:21,895
- [man] Your thoughts?
- Hmm?
485
00:25:21,978 --> 00:25:25,023
[man] The pride of the Ōoku
holds full training every 12 days.
486
00:25:25,106 --> 00:25:26,650
Quite the swordsmen, are they not?
487
00:25:27,234 --> 00:25:28,234
[chuckles]
488
00:25:28,735 --> 00:25:29,653
Hey, Mizu...
489
00:25:29,736 --> 00:25:30,654
[gasps]
490
00:25:30,737 --> 00:25:32,155
[running and gasping]
491
00:25:32,781 --> 00:25:34,616
- Huh?
- [Sugishita] Sir! I apologize!
492
00:25:34,699 --> 00:25:36,284
Please pardon this discourtesy!
493
00:25:36,785 --> 00:25:41,498
No, no, I think it is commendable
to have an interest in the martial arts.
494
00:25:41,581 --> 00:25:44,042
You two are
Pages of the Inner Chambers, yes?
495
00:25:44,125 --> 00:25:45,794
- Names?
- Yes, sir!
496
00:25:45,877 --> 00:25:49,673
To my side is Mizuno,
and kneeling before you is Sugishita, sir!
497
00:25:49,756 --> 00:25:51,049
Mizuno...
498
00:25:51,132 --> 00:25:54,678
You must be the new Page of the Inner
Chambers that I've heard so much about.
499
00:25:55,428 --> 00:25:57,514
I've heard of your exploits.
500
00:25:57,597 --> 00:25:59,891
They say you got into a scuffle
against three others
501
00:25:59,975 --> 00:26:03,353
when they pressed upon you to perform
the newcomer's "duty of the night."
502
00:26:03,436 --> 00:26:06,815
And not only did you fight them off,
but you came out unscathed.
503
00:26:06,898 --> 00:26:08,441
Excellent indeed.
504
00:26:08,525 --> 00:26:09,693
M... my lord... I...
505
00:26:09,776 --> 00:26:11,444
Say, Mizuno.
506
00:26:11,528 --> 00:26:14,197
How would you like to cross swords
with someone at the dojo?
507
00:26:14,281 --> 00:26:17,033
My... my lord... The rules...
508
00:26:17,117 --> 00:26:18,410
[man] I'll allow it.
509
00:26:18,493 --> 00:26:21,204
Your interest tells me
you have considerable skill.
510
00:26:21,288 --> 00:26:22,455
Am I wrong?
511
00:26:22,539 --> 00:26:27,127
Consider this a request from Fujinami,
the Senior Chamberlain of the Ōoku.
512
00:26:27,210 --> 00:26:30,088
I would ask that whatever skill
you possess as a swordsman
513
00:26:30,171 --> 00:26:31,798
be shown here today.
514
00:26:35,594 --> 00:26:36,803
[gasps]
515
00:26:37,804 --> 00:26:39,055
[yells]
516
00:26:39,139 --> 00:26:42,309
That was Master Fujinami,
the Senior Chamberlain?
517
00:26:42,392 --> 00:26:43,852
[laughs]
518
00:26:43,935 --> 00:26:45,353
Indeed it was.
519
00:26:45,437 --> 00:26:47,230
Best of luck, Mizuno.
520
00:26:47,814 --> 00:26:49,316
[man 1] Where did this guy come from?
521
00:26:49,399 --> 00:26:51,943
[man 2] I hear he's the new
Page of the Inner Chamber.
522
00:26:52,027 --> 00:26:53,695
[man 1] Oh! It's Mizuno, right?
523
00:26:53,778 --> 00:26:55,778
I heard about his brawl
in the middle of the night!
524
00:26:55,822 --> 00:26:59,117
Well what I heard was that he hurled
all the men in the Page's Quarters
525
00:26:59,200 --> 00:27:00,785
across the room with his bare hands.
526
00:27:00,869 --> 00:27:03,121
But he's so beautiful,
you never would have guessed it.
527
00:27:03,204 --> 00:27:05,248
I suppose you can't
judge a book by its cover.
528
00:27:05,832 --> 00:27:08,872
[thinks] They're makin' the whole thing
sound like a bigger deal than it was.
529
00:27:09,336 --> 00:27:11,588
Who here is the most skilled?
530
00:27:11,671 --> 00:27:13,757
- Sir, I don't think that...
- I'll allow it.
531
00:27:13,840 --> 00:27:15,550
Hmm. Tsuruoka!
532
00:27:15,634 --> 00:27:17,260
- Face your opponent.
- [Tsuruoka] Sir!
533
00:27:17,344 --> 00:27:19,095
[all gasping]
534
00:27:19,846 --> 00:27:20,930
[man 1] No way...
535
00:27:21,848 --> 00:27:22,848
[gasps]
536
00:27:23,350 --> 00:27:25,769
[Mizuno] The young man
with Master Matsushima...
537
00:27:25,852 --> 00:27:27,771
[man 2] Master Tsuruoka is sparring him?
538
00:27:27,854 --> 00:27:31,399
[man 3] I heard he was strong,
but is Mizuno that strong?
539
00:27:31,941 --> 00:27:33,276
[dramatic music]
540
00:27:40,867 --> 00:27:43,787
[thinks] He didn't even look
at the opening I created for him.
541
00:27:44,371 --> 00:27:45,372
He's strong.
542
00:27:45,955 --> 00:27:48,083
His body is slight, but solid as steel.
543
00:27:48,833 --> 00:27:51,294
The only way to get that result is
daily practice.
544
00:27:52,420 --> 00:27:55,799
Look at that. He's still as a stone
with that sword above his head.
545
00:27:56,800 --> 00:27:57,926
All right, then!
546
00:28:02,764 --> 00:28:04,349
Hai-yah!
547
00:28:05,850 --> 00:28:07,227
I see.
548
00:28:07,310 --> 00:28:11,481
Glad to know looks and lineage aren't the
only things that are prized in this place.
549
00:28:12,565 --> 00:28:13,565
Oh!
550
00:28:21,825 --> 00:28:23,410
[panting]
551
00:28:27,872 --> 00:28:29,249
[panting]
552
00:28:39,008 --> 00:28:40,927
[both yelling]
553
00:28:42,262 --> 00:28:43,263
[gulps]
554
00:28:45,390 --> 00:28:46,725
[yelps]
555
00:28:47,892 --> 00:28:49,310
Mizuno is the winner!
556
00:28:50,395 --> 00:28:52,021
- [all murmuring]
- [gasping]
557
00:28:53,398 --> 00:28:54,816
Oh-ho!
558
00:28:54,899 --> 00:28:56,901
Master Tsuruoka was defeated!
559
00:28:57,402 --> 00:28:59,863
- [panting]
- [man 4] He's strong.
560
00:29:00,363 --> 00:29:03,283
You all right? I hope you're not hurt,
Master Tsuruoka
561
00:29:03,366 --> 00:29:04,826
Please forgive the intensity.
562
00:29:05,452 --> 00:29:07,954
Because your strength
far outmatched my own,
563
00:29:08,037 --> 00:29:10,206
I couldn't stop my wooden sword in time.
564
00:29:11,249 --> 00:29:12,834
I would also like to thank you.
565
00:29:13,501 --> 00:29:15,628
This is by far the happiest day
I've experienced
566
00:29:15,712 --> 00:29:18,339
since I entered into
studying the way of the sword.
567
00:29:19,048 --> 00:29:22,135
I never expected to see
a swordsman of your caliber here.
568
00:29:22,635 --> 00:29:24,721
- I felt like a rat biting a cat...
- Enough!
569
00:29:24,804 --> 00:29:25,805
Uh...
570
00:29:25,889 --> 00:29:26,723
[somber music]
571
00:29:26,806 --> 00:29:28,892
"A swordsman of your caliber"?
572
00:29:29,392 --> 00:29:31,227
Do not be full of yourself!
573
00:29:31,311 --> 00:29:33,730
No matter how good
or deft you are with swords,
574
00:29:33,813 --> 00:29:36,483
in the Ōoku,
our priorities are far different.
575
00:29:36,566 --> 00:29:40,528
It is better to have a beautiful face
and know the graces of social politics.
576
00:29:40,612 --> 00:29:44,073
[scoffs] In the competitions
that truly matter,
577
00:29:44,157 --> 00:29:46,326
I am far above you in every aspect!
578
00:29:46,409 --> 00:29:47,410
[Mizuno gasps]
579
00:29:47,994 --> 00:29:48,995
[thinks] O-Nobu.
580
00:29:49,996 --> 00:29:51,414
This place is grim.
581
00:29:52,582 --> 00:29:57,003
Even though it's filled with beautiful men
who are capable of incredible talents,
582
00:29:58,588 --> 00:30:00,256
their hearts are empty.
583
00:30:03,802 --> 00:30:05,762
What's with that dour expression?
584
00:30:06,346 --> 00:30:07,555
You've got it all wrong.
585
00:30:07,639 --> 00:30:09,808
I'm overjoyed with the results
from my bout.
586
00:30:09,891 --> 00:30:11,810
[chuckles] Guess I misread.
587
00:30:15,772 --> 00:30:20,193
My family is gokenin,
worth 30 bales of rice, which feeds three.
588
00:30:20,276 --> 00:30:23,238
That's the lowest stipend
there is among the gokenin.
589
00:30:23,321 --> 00:30:27,116
My parents never gave it a thought,
selling their son's body.
590
00:30:27,200 --> 00:30:30,370
I was forced to every single night
since I was 14 years old.
591
00:30:33,873 --> 00:30:34,707
[sighs]
592
00:30:34,791 --> 00:30:37,377
[Sugishita] When I was married off
at the age of 18,
593
00:30:37,460 --> 00:30:41,381
I was ecstatic, thinking that I was
finally able to get out of that hellhole.
594
00:30:41,881 --> 00:30:45,802
But in all the years we slept together,
we were never blessed with a child.
595
00:30:45,885 --> 00:30:49,722
I was eventually divorced, and
they had stopped feeding me in the end.
596
00:30:50,890 --> 00:30:52,892
Going home was out of the question,
597
00:30:52,976 --> 00:30:54,727
so I had no other place to go.
598
00:30:55,228 --> 00:31:00,275
I came here at 23. I began my service
as the lowest ranking houseboy.
599
00:31:02,902 --> 00:31:04,612
Grunt work was no issue.
600
00:31:04,696 --> 00:31:08,825
Even being violated by my superiors,
it was nothing new to me.
601
00:31:09,617 --> 00:31:10,785
[sighs]
602
00:31:11,411 --> 00:31:12,411
Listen, Mizuno.
603
00:31:13,580 --> 00:31:18,209
From your perspective, the Ōoku could seem
like a sick, twisted, rotten place,
604
00:31:18,293 --> 00:31:20,503
filled with those who feel broken.
605
00:31:20,587 --> 00:31:23,840
But there are those of us here
who have nowhere else we can live.
606
00:31:26,676 --> 00:31:29,721
[narrator] April 30th
in the sixth year of Shotoku.
607
00:31:29,804 --> 00:31:33,725
The seventh shogun Ietsugu
had been sickly for some time.
608
00:31:33,808 --> 00:31:36,853
Her condition turned critical,
and she passed away.
609
00:31:37,770 --> 00:31:40,356
It appears to have been decided
that our next shogun
610
00:31:40,440 --> 00:31:42,859
will be one Lord Yoshimune
from the Kii province.
611
00:31:44,652 --> 00:31:46,362
Say, Matsushima.
612
00:31:46,446 --> 00:31:48,907
Did you know that,
with our liege on her deathbed,
613
00:31:48,990 --> 00:31:52,577
Lord Yoshimune was the first of
the three branches of the Tokugawa house
614
00:31:52,660 --> 00:31:53,870
to attend to the castle?
615
00:31:54,454 --> 00:31:58,625
They say Lord Tsugutomo of Owari province,
her main rival,
616
00:31:58,708 --> 00:32:01,294
didn't even have her palanquin
ready for travel yet.
617
00:32:01,794 --> 00:32:04,964
From the whispers I've heard,
they used bribery.
618
00:32:05,048 --> 00:32:08,134
The Kii side approached
one of the chief retainers in Owari.
619
00:32:08,968 --> 00:32:14,223
Reports of our liege's critical condition
were intentionally delayed to their Lord.
620
00:32:14,307 --> 00:32:17,393
Hmph. Women are terrifying, aren't they?
621
00:32:17,477 --> 00:32:21,397
Regardless, Lord Yoshimune
is yet unmarried and is in good health.
622
00:32:21,940 --> 00:32:24,984
It surely will liven up here
for the first time in years.
623
00:32:25,068 --> 00:32:28,738
Although I do feel sorry for
whoever is chosen as her secret swain.
624
00:32:29,572 --> 00:32:32,241
The secret swain has a poor lot, indeed.
625
00:32:32,325 --> 00:32:35,036
Lord Yoshimune is a woman
of vigor and valantry,
626
00:32:35,119 --> 00:32:37,413
who herself has studied the martial arts.
627
00:32:37,997 --> 00:32:42,043
I'm sure she will not fancy a man who
is soft, no matter how beautiful he is...
628
00:32:42,126 --> 00:32:44,295
Oh! I was just struck with an idea.
629
00:32:44,379 --> 00:32:47,423
I've just met someone who I think
would be a most suitable swain.
630
00:32:48,174 --> 00:32:49,414
[narrator] On the first of May,
631
00:32:49,467 --> 00:32:52,845
the day after the young shogun Ietsugu
passed away,
632
00:32:52,929 --> 00:32:56,516
the reign of the eighth shogun,
Yoshimune, began.
633
00:32:58,101 --> 00:33:00,269
How do you fancy your
new robe, Your Highness?
634
00:33:00,353 --> 00:33:03,064
It is a "tuck-up" robe made
from black nerinuki fabric
635
00:33:03,147 --> 00:33:04,941
with a pattern of cintamani jewels.
636
00:33:05,024 --> 00:33:08,069
An uchikake over-robe is considered
a "tuck-up"?
637
00:33:08,152 --> 00:33:09,570
[servant] Yes, my liege.
638
00:33:09,654 --> 00:33:12,156
It is customary to call it so
in the Castle,
639
00:33:12,240 --> 00:33:14,701
because one tucks up the long hem to walk.
640
00:33:16,536 --> 00:33:17,662
It is beautiful.
641
00:33:18,746 --> 00:33:19,956
But, Manabe.
642
00:33:20,832 --> 00:33:24,335
I told you the other day that
I do not need lavish garments,
643
00:33:24,419 --> 00:33:28,673
as I have always worn plain cotton kimonos
back when I lived in the Kii province.
644
00:33:29,424 --> 00:33:31,300
Mmph. With all due respect,
645
00:33:31,384 --> 00:33:34,721
I trust I have followed your instruction
where your garments are concerned.
646
00:33:34,804 --> 00:33:37,932
You stated that you wished
for them to be kept simple, my liege.
647
00:33:38,016 --> 00:33:40,977
A black fabric with a few modest patterns.
648
00:33:41,060 --> 00:33:43,229
If I were to use anything
more simple than this,
649
00:33:43,312 --> 00:33:46,983
I fear it will tar my liege's prestige
as the supreme ruler of this domain.
650
00:33:47,817 --> 00:33:48,860
This is the capital.
651
00:33:48,943 --> 00:33:50,987
- Not the backwaters of Kii.
- Hmm.
652
00:33:53,906 --> 00:33:57,744
If that's how it must be,
I suppose the matter is settled.
653
00:33:57,827 --> 00:33:59,537
I am grateful you agree, Highness.
654
00:33:59,620 --> 00:34:02,498
You are dismissed.
Pack your things and leave by tonight.
655
00:34:02,582 --> 00:34:03,582
Huh?
656
00:34:04,083 --> 00:34:07,003
The shogunate faces
tremendous financial hardship.
657
00:34:07,086 --> 00:34:10,757
So if my priorities are to dress
myself in lavish garments as the ruler,
658
00:34:10,840 --> 00:34:14,302
all while tackling the task
of rebuilding the nation and its finances,
659
00:34:14,385 --> 00:34:19,098
those decisions would strike me as an act
only a lunatic would choose to carry out.
660
00:34:19,182 --> 00:34:23,519
And in ignoring my wishes, it seems
to me that you are one such lunatic.
661
00:34:23,603 --> 00:34:25,646
Surely a lunatic like that could never
662
00:34:25,730 --> 00:34:28,524
assume the great responsibility
of a privy councilor?
663
00:34:28,608 --> 00:34:30,526
Uh... [gasps]
664
00:34:31,611 --> 00:34:34,322
Did you not hear me?
I said you are dismissed!
665
00:34:34,405 --> 00:34:36,783
- Now, begone!
- [gasps] My liege!
666
00:34:38,242 --> 00:34:41,537
[woman] That was quite
the first impression, honorable Nobu...
667
00:34:41,621 --> 00:34:43,331
I mean, Your Highness.
668
00:34:43,414 --> 00:34:47,710
It was always my intention to dismiss
the privy councilors of my predecessor.
669
00:34:48,628 --> 00:34:52,215
Even so, I am no stranger
to contempt or disapproval.
670
00:34:52,298 --> 00:34:54,759
Originally, I was never
in line for succession,
671
00:34:54,842 --> 00:34:57,553
being that I was the third
daughter of the Lord of Kii.
672
00:34:57,637 --> 00:35:01,724
A few snide remarks and insinuations
could hardly raise my ire.
673
00:35:01,808 --> 00:35:03,184
[chuckles] Um...
674
00:35:03,267 --> 00:35:05,603
You plan to dismiss all the councilors?
675
00:35:05,686 --> 00:35:09,565
Were you also intending on abolishing
the post in its entirety, my liege?
676
00:35:09,649 --> 00:35:10,900
You guess correctly.
677
00:35:10,983 --> 00:35:13,319
And in the place of having
multiple Privy Councilors,
678
00:35:13,402 --> 00:35:16,072
I shall create a post
of a single intermediary.
679
00:35:16,155 --> 00:35:19,867
It is this person who will mediate
between the Senior Councilors and myself.
680
00:35:19,951 --> 00:35:23,579
Their primary concern will be dealing
with that troublesome lot in the Ōoku.
681
00:35:23,663 --> 00:35:26,791
Oh! That sounds like a difficult position!
682
00:35:26,874 --> 00:35:27,750
[laughs]
683
00:35:27,834 --> 00:35:32,004
If you think so, then it's hardly time to
be laughing, as it is your job, Hisamichi.
684
00:35:32,088 --> 00:35:35,591
Wait, you really think
that I should do it?
685
00:35:35,675 --> 00:35:36,843
Yes, I do.
686
00:35:36,926 --> 00:35:40,555
It's just, Your Highness, I may have
served you ever since we were little,
687
00:35:40,638 --> 00:35:42,557
and you know my loyalty for you.
688
00:35:42,640 --> 00:35:45,601
But that is a lofty position,
and I am merely a retainer.
689
00:35:45,685 --> 00:35:47,645
Knowing you for as long as I have
690
00:35:47,728 --> 00:35:50,439
has no bearing on why
I'm assigning you this post.
691
00:35:50,940 --> 00:35:54,110
I did so because I believe you
have what it takes to fill this role.
692
00:35:55,278 --> 00:35:57,196
Hear me, Kano Hisamichi.
693
00:35:57,905 --> 00:36:00,408
The only thing that changed is
where we are.
694
00:36:00,491 --> 00:36:04,495
Continue to serve me, and be my right
hand as you were in the Kii province.
695
00:36:05,705 --> 00:36:06,873
My liege.
696
00:36:07,707 --> 00:36:10,376
Although I'm afraid
the stipend will be meager,
697
00:36:10,459 --> 00:36:12,461
as we are facing financial crisis.
698
00:36:12,545 --> 00:36:14,881
- [laughs]
- [groans]
699
00:36:15,464 --> 00:36:16,632
[Fujinami] What was that?
700
00:36:16,716 --> 00:36:20,219
Are you truly telling me Her Highness
will not hold an audience in the Ōoku
701
00:36:20,303 --> 00:36:21,637
for a month at earliest?
702
00:36:21,721 --> 00:36:24,932
Her Highness will be extremely busy
with the affairs of the state,
703
00:36:25,016 --> 00:36:28,227
which is why she cannot visit
the Inner Chambers for some time.
704
00:36:28,311 --> 00:36:32,857
[sighs] Lord Kano, we are ten days
into Her Highness's reign as shogun,
705
00:36:32,940 --> 00:36:36,444
and that she has yet to hold a
general audience with the Inner Chambers
706
00:36:36,527 --> 00:36:39,030
is something I find
exceedingly outlandish.
707
00:36:39,113 --> 00:36:42,116
I understand,
but it is not her intention to abstain
708
00:36:42,200 --> 00:36:44,200
- from appearing here eventually, sir.
- [grumbles]
709
00:36:44,243 --> 00:36:45,703
I should think not!
710
00:36:45,786 --> 00:36:47,288
[thinks] Whoa! Scary.
711
00:36:47,371 --> 00:36:51,667
A man raising his voice when it's already
so deep and loud is unsettling.
712
00:36:51,751 --> 00:36:54,670
What is our liege thinking,
throwing tradition to the wind?
713
00:36:55,922 --> 00:36:58,174
Likely about the future of this nation.
714
00:36:58,257 --> 00:36:59,675
[gasps]
715
00:37:01,344 --> 00:37:02,470
[grumbles]
716
00:37:02,553 --> 00:37:04,180
[thinks] She's sharp as a knife.
717
00:37:05,264 --> 00:37:06,390
[Mizuno] What?
718
00:37:06,474 --> 00:37:08,226
My Lord says he wants me to be
719
00:37:09,268 --> 00:37:11,020
a Groom of the Bedchamber?
720
00:37:11,771 --> 00:37:13,689
Do you have objections?
721
00:37:13,773 --> 00:37:15,858
No! It would be my honor!
722
00:37:15,942 --> 00:37:16,942
But I...
723
00:37:16,984 --> 00:37:21,697
Your performance at the dojo the other
day... I must say, I was truly impressed.
724
00:37:23,991 --> 00:37:26,118
You defeated Tsuruoka fair and square.
725
00:37:26,202 --> 00:37:29,747
So it stands to reason that you'll be
promoted to a higher position than him,
726
00:37:29,830 --> 00:37:30,830
wouldn't you say?
727
00:37:31,249 --> 00:37:32,708
It's rather straightforward.
728
00:37:32,792 --> 00:37:36,295
[narrator] A Groom of the Bedchamber is
a personal attendant to the shogun,
729
00:37:36,379 --> 00:37:37,713
as well as a consort.
730
00:37:37,797 --> 00:37:40,925
From this rank,
men are presented to the shogun
731
00:37:41,008 --> 00:37:43,094
from which she will choose her concubine.
732
00:37:43,594 --> 00:37:47,306
Within the Ōoku, it is considered
a massive promotion.
733
00:37:47,390 --> 00:37:48,432
[Sugishita] Who knows?
734
00:37:48,516 --> 00:37:51,143
It could be that
Master Fujinami wants to push you
735
00:37:51,227 --> 00:37:54,188
as a potential candidate
for our new liege's concubine.
736
00:37:55,314 --> 00:37:57,525
I heard she is
accomplished in martial arts.
737
00:37:57,608 --> 00:37:59,944
She is said to be a strong woman of valor
738
00:38:00,027 --> 00:38:01,904
who fought a sumo wrestler and won.
739
00:38:02,405 --> 00:38:05,741
She what?
A woman defeated a male sumo wrestler?
740
00:38:07,576 --> 00:38:09,996
And I owe you a great debt of gratitude,
Mizuno.
741
00:38:10,621 --> 00:38:11,621
Gratitude?
742
00:38:11,664 --> 00:38:15,501
I have been ordered by Master Fujinami
to serve you as your personal attendant.
743
00:38:16,085 --> 00:38:17,920
From today on,
I will work in the Large Hall,
744
00:38:18,004 --> 00:38:20,381
one rank higher than the Pages' Quarters.
745
00:38:20,464 --> 00:38:23,342
I was fully prepared
to spend the rest of my days here.
746
00:38:24,218 --> 00:38:26,012
This is more than I could dream of.
747
00:38:26,804 --> 00:38:27,972
Thank you.
748
00:38:29,098 --> 00:38:32,018
Now, I ask that you would allow me
to carry your belongings
749
00:38:32,101 --> 00:38:33,519
to your new chamber, Master.
750
00:38:33,602 --> 00:38:34,603
[chuckles]
751
00:38:35,104 --> 00:38:36,564
[birdsong]
752
00:38:40,818 --> 00:38:42,278
[sighs]
753
00:38:44,405 --> 00:38:46,240
[Soejima] M... Master?
754
00:38:46,741 --> 00:38:48,200
- Hmm?
- [Soejima] I...
755
00:38:48,284 --> 00:38:50,536
I have come to serve you some tea.
756
00:38:51,829 --> 00:38:54,749
Yes of course, thank you.
You may come in.
757
00:38:56,125 --> 00:38:57,543
Thank you for allowing me in.
758
00:38:57,626 --> 00:38:58,711
Uh...
759
00:38:59,211 --> 00:39:00,463
[sighs]
760
00:39:03,466 --> 00:39:05,092
Right. Thanks for the tea.
761
00:39:05,176 --> 00:39:07,219
You can just leave the tray over there.
762
00:39:07,303 --> 00:39:08,554
[Soejima stammers] S... Sir?
763
00:39:08,637 --> 00:39:09,637
Hmm?
764
00:39:10,139 --> 00:39:15,311
I'd like to, um, express my utmost
congratulations for your promotion, sir.
765
00:39:15,394 --> 00:39:17,146
And... Well, about...
766
00:39:17,229 --> 00:39:21,317
It is in regards to my improper behavior
when I had bothered you the other night.
767
00:39:21,400 --> 00:39:22,818
I am so sorry.
768
00:39:23,402 --> 00:39:25,738
Yeah well, it's not a big deal,
so forget it.
769
00:39:25,821 --> 00:39:28,501
If you've finished with your errand,
you can go ahead and leave now.
770
00:39:28,574 --> 00:39:29,867
- Does that mean...
- Uh...
771
00:39:29,950 --> 00:39:34,205
Do you really? Has your Grace
truly forgiven my impudent behavior?
772
00:39:34,288 --> 00:39:35,915
Are you telling the truth?
773
00:39:35,998 --> 00:39:38,638
I said I did, didn't I? I promise
you are not going to be punished.
774
00:39:38,709 --> 00:39:39,835
Are you happy now?
775
00:39:39,919 --> 00:39:41,837
Heh! [chuckles]
776
00:39:41,921 --> 00:39:46,842
You know that color of your jacket, that
brownish-gray, looks very elegant on you.
777
00:39:46,926 --> 00:39:48,594
[sighs]
778
00:39:48,677 --> 00:39:51,180
I will leave the Master to his tea.
779
00:39:52,515 --> 00:39:54,225
[grunting]
780
00:39:57,311 --> 00:39:58,771
[panting]
781
00:40:02,066 --> 00:40:05,611
Everyone, this is the newest
member of your rank, Mizuno.
782
00:40:06,320 --> 00:40:07,988
Make yourselves acquainted.
783
00:40:08,072 --> 00:40:10,282
[Mizuno] I am still a novice
in these halls.
784
00:40:10,366 --> 00:40:12,993
Any guidance you would give
would be greatly appreciated.
785
00:40:13,077 --> 00:40:15,204
[narrator] There are seven
Grooms of the Bedchamber.
786
00:40:15,287 --> 00:40:19,291
All of them are young, handsome,
and accomplished, from good families.
787
00:40:19,375 --> 00:40:21,419
Among the lot of them, one stood out.
788
00:40:21,502 --> 00:40:22,628
My name is Kashiwagi.
789
00:40:22,711 --> 00:40:24,922
Kashiwagi distinguished himself
from the rest
790
00:40:25,005 --> 00:40:28,175
not only for his beauty,
but also his intellect.
791
00:40:28,717 --> 00:40:30,469
[gentle music]
792
00:40:31,720 --> 00:40:33,514
I am honored to make your acquaintance.
793
00:40:33,597 --> 00:40:37,518
My name is Kakizoe, and it is
a distinct pleasure to serve you, sir.
794
00:40:37,601 --> 00:40:40,187
I have been entrusted
to tailor your formal attire.
795
00:40:40,271 --> 00:40:41,147
Mmph...
796
00:40:41,230 --> 00:40:43,357
- Uh, what's the matter?
- I...
797
00:40:43,441 --> 00:40:44,733
I am delighted.
798
00:40:44,817 --> 00:40:48,863
There is not one person in the Ōoku
that doesn't admire you, Master Mizuno.
799
00:40:48,946 --> 00:40:52,575
In fact, we drew lots,
and I am here through unbelievable luck.
800
00:40:52,658 --> 00:40:55,161
- Ah, I'm so embarrassed, I could die!
- Uh...
801
00:40:56,078 --> 00:40:59,165
[Kakizoe] Now, which of these fabrics
do you prefer?
802
00:40:59,748 --> 00:41:01,542
If I may suggest, Master Mizuno,
803
00:41:01,625 --> 00:41:04,879
a strong color such as this
suits your complexion very well.
804
00:41:04,962 --> 00:41:08,674
Especially If the base color was
an indigo blue, or deep crimson...
805
00:41:10,134 --> 00:41:12,261
Not that. The black.
806
00:41:12,761 --> 00:41:14,180
You want black?
807
00:41:14,763 --> 00:41:17,600
Then, how about I create a design
that would fit the dark tone?
808
00:41:17,683 --> 00:41:21,187
A single, sweeping line of water
across the back in smoked silver thread.
809
00:41:21,270 --> 00:41:24,190
It would invoke a somber,
yet bold feeling on the black.
810
00:41:24,273 --> 00:41:27,193
Yeah, that sounds like a great idea.
I like it.
811
00:41:27,276 --> 00:41:29,028
[chuckles] I like it a lot!
812
00:41:29,111 --> 00:41:30,654
You've got pretty good taste.
813
00:41:30,738 --> 00:41:34,241
I'll leave the rest to you.
Do as you see fit, I trust you.
814
00:41:34,325 --> 00:41:35,784
[gasps] Of course!
815
00:41:35,868 --> 00:41:37,995
I promise I shall do my best, Master!
816
00:41:38,078 --> 00:41:40,789
- [light tinkling]
- [gasping]
817
00:41:40,873 --> 00:41:42,082
[man] Hey, now, Kakizoe!
818
00:41:42,166 --> 00:41:43,209
[gasps] Yes, sir!
819
00:41:43,292 --> 00:41:45,169
You should be moving your hands, you know!
820
00:41:45,252 --> 00:41:47,713
- Yes, sir! On it, right away!
- [grumbles]
821
00:41:48,464 --> 00:41:49,464
[Sugishita] Master.
822
00:41:50,799 --> 00:41:53,552
Your formal attire was supposed
to be ready today,
823
00:41:53,636 --> 00:41:56,138
but I was informed
it will be delayed for a while.
824
00:41:56,805 --> 00:41:59,391
Oh? I'm not too worried either way.
825
00:41:59,892 --> 00:42:01,143
But do you know what happened?
826
00:42:01,227 --> 00:42:04,063
[head tailor] Come on!
You still haven't found it yet?
827
00:42:04,146 --> 00:42:05,481
[Kakizoe] I am so sorry.
828
00:42:05,564 --> 00:42:06,982
I am so... Oh!
829
00:42:07,691 --> 00:42:09,026
Master Mizuno.
830
00:42:09,527 --> 00:42:12,905
Oh dear. So, is it true
that someone lost a needle?
831
00:42:13,822 --> 00:42:15,449
I am so, so sorry!
832
00:42:15,533 --> 00:42:18,577
If it wasn't lost,
your formal attire would be finished.
833
00:42:19,119 --> 00:42:20,287
That must be tough.
834
00:42:20,871 --> 00:42:22,665
I heard that when a needle is misplaced,
835
00:42:22,748 --> 00:42:25,788
the tailors aren't allowed to leave
the room until it's found, is that right?
836
00:42:25,834 --> 00:42:29,755
[sobs] It is all my fault, since I was
the one who misplaced the needle earlier...
837
00:42:30,548 --> 00:42:33,759
Now that the sun has already set,
it will be even harder to find.
838
00:42:33,842 --> 00:42:36,720
I feel so terrible for my fellow tailors...
839
00:42:36,804 --> 00:42:38,556
Is this how you've been looking for it?
840
00:42:38,639 --> 00:42:40,766
Everyone just looking around,
here and there?
841
00:42:41,433 --> 00:42:43,769
Well, yes. That would be correct, sir.
842
00:42:43,852 --> 00:42:46,313
Hmm. There is this one method
that could work.
843
00:42:46,397 --> 00:42:48,277
You'd have to humor me
and follow my directions.
844
00:42:48,357 --> 00:42:49,441
[gasps]
845
00:42:50,359 --> 00:42:53,362
Well, he told us to put all the furniture
on one side of the room
846
00:42:53,445 --> 00:42:55,322
and line up side-by-side
near the back wall...
847
00:42:55,406 --> 00:42:57,783
What is Master Mizuno
gonna tell us to do next?
848
00:42:57,866 --> 00:42:59,868
- Dunno.
- Listen up, everyone!
849
00:42:59,952 --> 00:43:03,956
Whenever you hear me beat this drum,
I want you all to scoot one pace forward.
850
00:43:04,039 --> 00:43:06,750
Then scan the area in front
of you closely for the needle!
851
00:43:07,876 --> 00:43:08,876
Forward!
852
00:43:12,798 --> 00:43:13,799
Forward!
853
00:43:16,885 --> 00:43:18,429
- [hits drum]
- Forward!
854
00:43:18,929 --> 00:43:19,929
[grunts]
855
00:43:21,890 --> 00:43:24,310
[thinks] Gah! There's no way this'll work...
856
00:43:25,394 --> 00:43:26,437
[Mizuno] Forward!
857
00:43:27,896 --> 00:43:29,273
- [hits drum]
- Forward!
858
00:43:31,317 --> 00:43:32,693
- Forward!
- Hm?
859
00:43:34,778 --> 00:43:36,572
- Oh!
- [gasps]
860
00:43:38,157 --> 00:43:39,259
- That's it!
- [all murmuring]
861
00:43:39,283 --> 00:43:41,577
Amazing! We searched all day long
and couldn't find it,
862
00:43:41,660 --> 00:43:43,370
then, just like that, there it is!
863
00:43:43,454 --> 00:43:45,581
[Kakizoe] I am beyond grateful,
Master Mizuno!
864
00:43:46,582 --> 00:43:48,375
I'm just happy to hear that you found it.
865
00:43:48,459 --> 00:43:50,836
I had a childhood friend
that was from a merchant family.
866
00:43:50,919 --> 00:43:53,589
This was the strategy they would use
for things they couldn't find.
867
00:43:53,672 --> 00:43:57,217
Thanks to you, we will be able
to sleep in our beds tonight.
868
00:43:57,301 --> 00:43:59,511
We are most grateful, Master Mizuno.
869
00:43:59,595 --> 00:44:00,596
Hmm?
870
00:44:00,679 --> 00:44:03,599
- [all] We are most grateful, Master!
- [chuckles]
871
00:44:03,682 --> 00:44:05,768
We gotta help each other out, ya know?
872
00:44:05,851 --> 00:44:08,270
There ain't nothin'
y'all need to thank me for.
873
00:44:08,354 --> 00:44:09,354
G'night!
874
00:44:09,688 --> 00:44:12,024
- "Ain't nothin' to thank me for. G'night!"
- Oh...
875
00:44:12,107 --> 00:44:15,235
Whew! Now that's what we call a man!
876
00:44:16,695 --> 00:44:20,115
I would never have guessed
that fellow is as interesting as he is.
877
00:44:20,824 --> 00:44:22,826
If the rumors hold any truth,
878
00:44:22,910 --> 00:44:25,996
his popularity is rapidly soaring
among the men.
879
00:44:26,538 --> 00:44:28,624
You sound unhappy, Kashiwagi.
880
00:44:29,708 --> 00:44:31,251
It's not that at all.
881
00:44:31,335 --> 00:44:34,505
It is merely that
my small mind is too mediocre
882
00:44:34,588 --> 00:44:37,257
to fathom your true intentions,
Master Fujinami.
883
00:44:37,758 --> 00:44:38,758
What is this?
884
00:44:38,801 --> 00:44:42,638
I had no idea that someone such as
yourself could ever look so uncertain.
885
00:44:44,473 --> 00:44:45,766
Try to calm your nerves.
886
00:44:45,849 --> 00:44:49,269
My intention to commend you
as the chief concubine for Lord Yoshimune
887
00:44:49,353 --> 00:44:50,938
is the same as it always was.
888
00:44:51,021 --> 00:44:52,815
There are machinations at work.
889
00:44:52,898 --> 00:44:55,943
- Just wait.
- Ah... Master, I...
890
00:44:56,026 --> 00:44:58,195
[thinks] Hmph, this old man...
891
00:44:58,696 --> 00:45:00,030
I'll keep my guard up.
892
00:45:00,739 --> 00:45:02,157
[birdsong]
893
00:45:02,241 --> 00:45:03,659
- [door opens]
- Oh...
894
00:45:03,742 --> 00:45:05,911
Oh, I hope you weren't waiting too long.
895
00:45:05,994 --> 00:45:08,414
M... Master Mizuno. Did I...
896
00:45:08,497 --> 00:45:12,418
Was the formal attire I tailored
not up to your expectations?
897
00:45:12,501 --> 00:45:15,087
No, it was quite the opposite, actually.
898
00:45:15,170 --> 00:45:16,672
I loved what you made so much,
899
00:45:16,755 --> 00:45:19,299
I wish I could wear it
and strut down the streets of Edo!
900
00:45:19,800 --> 00:45:21,969
Your needlework was careful
and meticulous,
901
00:45:22,052 --> 00:45:23,679
as expected from an Ōoku tailor.
902
00:45:23,762 --> 00:45:26,098
Oh! My master is too kind!
903
00:45:26,181 --> 00:45:28,851
That design is a classic
called "O-Man's favorite,"
904
00:45:28,934 --> 00:45:32,020
and it happened to pop into my head
the day you and I spoke.
905
00:45:32,104 --> 00:45:33,439
[trembling]
906
00:45:34,106 --> 00:45:36,191
- Hmm?
- Uh, nothing!
907
00:45:36,275 --> 00:45:40,946
O-Man once lived in the Ōoku.
He was a concubine of Lord Iemitsu.
908
00:45:41,530 --> 00:45:44,366
He was a man of exquisite taste,
from what I've heard.
909
00:45:45,200 --> 00:45:51,206
I bet that the two of you are alike
with how handsome you are, Master Mizuno.
910
00:45:51,290 --> 00:45:54,626
[laughs] You can cut that out, all right?
911
00:45:54,710 --> 00:45:57,588
Such brazen flattery
is not going to get you anywhere.
912
00:45:57,671 --> 00:45:59,840
All I wanted to do
is give you a small gift.
913
00:45:59,923 --> 00:46:01,842
It's just a tobacco pouch,
so don't sweat it.
914
00:46:01,925 --> 00:46:03,218
- Master Mizuno.
- Hmm?
915
00:46:03,302 --> 00:46:06,513
I... I do not... I do not need a gift.
916
00:46:06,597 --> 00:46:08,223
But... but if I could...
917
00:46:09,057 --> 00:46:10,225
If you could what?
918
00:46:10,309 --> 00:46:11,310
[gasps]
919
00:46:13,437 --> 00:46:14,938
A memory...
920
00:46:15,647 --> 00:46:17,316
[whimpers]
921
00:46:17,399 --> 00:46:19,735
Uh... Hmm...
922
00:46:21,820 --> 00:46:23,322
[thinks] Forgive me, O-Nobu.
923
00:46:24,948 --> 00:46:26,074
[gasps]
924
00:46:26,158 --> 00:46:28,160
[ringing sound]
925
00:46:28,744 --> 00:46:29,870
[gasps]
926
00:46:29,953 --> 00:46:32,664
I'm sorry,
this is all that I can give you.
927
00:46:33,165 --> 00:46:34,875
[gasps] Oh!
928
00:46:34,958 --> 00:46:37,127
Yes, sir. Uh, this was... [whimpers]
929
00:46:37,211 --> 00:46:39,505
I will treasure this
for the rest of my life!
930
00:46:41,256 --> 00:46:42,174
Hmm.
931
00:46:42,257 --> 00:46:44,676
[narrator] The first day
of the sixth month came.
932
00:46:44,760 --> 00:46:48,096
From the early dawn,
the Ōoku was bustling with activities.
933
00:46:48,180 --> 00:46:49,973
[dramatic music]
934
00:46:58,565 --> 00:47:01,109
It is done.
Your preparations are complete.
935
00:47:09,660 --> 00:47:11,662
- [Groom 1] Oh!
- [Groom 2] What's that guy doing?
936
00:47:12,454 --> 00:47:13,872
- Hm?
- [all gasping]
937
00:47:15,457 --> 00:47:18,585
I can't recall the last time
I saw such a simple design.
938
00:47:18,669 --> 00:47:22,881
[scoffs] The only pattern is on the back.
Just a single stream of flowing water.
939
00:47:22,965 --> 00:47:25,592
[thinks] You say that,
but not a single head has turned from him
940
00:47:25,676 --> 00:47:27,386
since he entered the room.
941
00:47:28,470 --> 00:47:31,431
The stark black in the sea
of brilliantly colored yuzen.
942
00:47:32,140 --> 00:47:33,809
It's a quiet, but bold look.
943
00:47:34,476 --> 00:47:36,061
[man] Our liege arrives!
944
00:47:36,144 --> 00:47:38,897
Her Highness shall enter the Ōoku
for the morning audience!
945
00:47:38,981 --> 00:47:40,899
[jingling]
946
00:47:40,983 --> 00:47:45,028
Bow your head in reverence!
Her Highness has arrived!
947
00:47:52,744 --> 00:47:56,665
[thinks] Good grief, what a gaudy bunch
of posturing peacocks they are.
948
00:47:57,291 --> 00:48:00,794
I despise these colorful costumes
that eat from our coffers.
949
00:48:00,878 --> 00:48:04,089
So many chests of gold, wasted on cloth.
950
00:48:05,007 --> 00:48:07,843
Curse these prodigal coin sponges!
951
00:48:07,926 --> 00:48:08,926
Ugh.
952
00:48:08,969 --> 00:48:12,431
This so called "tuck-up" is a nightmare
to maneuver around in.
953
00:48:13,724 --> 00:48:14,725
[gasps]
954
00:48:15,392 --> 00:48:17,060
- [Fujinami] Your Highness!
- [chuckles]
955
00:48:17,853 --> 00:48:20,606
Worry not. I am quite all right. Fujinami.
956
00:48:22,608 --> 00:48:26,069
Whoever decided to laugh
must have incredible nerves of steel.
957
00:48:26,153 --> 00:48:28,071
- Who was it?
- [gasps]
958
00:48:29,656 --> 00:48:31,450
- Uh...
- Mm-mmm!
959
00:48:34,703 --> 00:48:36,580
[Mizuno] Forgive me, Your Highness!
960
00:48:36,663 --> 00:48:37,581
[whimpers softly]
961
00:48:37,664 --> 00:48:38,582
[gasps]
962
00:48:38,665 --> 00:48:41,126
I offer you humble apologies, my liege.
963
00:48:41,209 --> 00:48:43,587
It was I who had the audacity
to laugh just now.
964
00:48:44,755 --> 00:48:48,050
Hmm. To the gentleman
in the black attire, then.
965
00:48:48,133 --> 00:48:49,593
You can lift your head.
966
00:48:50,177 --> 00:48:51,177
My liege!
967
00:48:51,678 --> 00:48:52,679
[Yoshimune] Higher!
968
00:48:53,430 --> 00:48:54,473
Well.
969
00:48:55,432 --> 00:48:57,517
Your eyes are clear and unafraid.
970
00:48:58,101 --> 00:49:00,854
I can see that you're a man
with some backbone to you.
971
00:49:02,230 --> 00:49:04,733
[narrator] If Yoshimune was
well-versed in fashion,
972
00:49:04,816 --> 00:49:07,653
she would have noticed that
Mizuno's flowing water design
973
00:49:07,736 --> 00:49:09,696
was stitched with painstaking care,
974
00:49:09,780 --> 00:49:12,741
and the thread it was embroidered with
was made of silver.
975
00:49:13,533 --> 00:49:14,368
Who are you?
976
00:49:14,451 --> 00:49:17,371
I am honored you asked, my liege.
My name is Mizuno.
977
00:49:17,454 --> 00:49:18,747
Mizuno.
978
00:49:19,331 --> 00:49:21,833
But Yoshimune did not notice any of it.
979
00:49:21,917 --> 00:49:23,877
She merely felt that Mizuno's garment
980
00:49:23,961 --> 00:49:26,922
was more simple
than those of the men surrounding him,
981
00:49:27,005 --> 00:49:29,383
and she found that to be pleasing.
982
00:49:29,967 --> 00:49:30,884
Fujinami.
983
00:49:30,968 --> 00:49:32,386
Uh, my liege?
984
00:49:32,970 --> 00:49:33,887
Hmm.
985
00:49:33,971 --> 00:49:36,056
[gasps] Uh, yes, Your Highness!
986
00:49:36,139 --> 00:49:39,476
We will see to it that your wishes
be arranged for, as you command.
987
00:49:40,852 --> 00:49:43,397
[thinks] Did... did I just...
988
00:49:55,242 --> 00:49:56,451
[chuckles]
989
00:49:57,244 --> 00:50:02,207
[Hisamichi] My liege, was there anything
that pleased you at the morning audience?
990
00:50:02,290 --> 00:50:03,417
There was.
991
00:50:03,500 --> 00:50:08,005
I suppose I am still
as hot-blooded as I used to be, Hisamichi.
992
00:50:08,088 --> 00:50:10,257
- Aah.
- [Yoshimune] Is something wrong?
993
00:50:10,757 --> 00:50:15,387
Oh! Well, my liege, while I still have yet
to familiarize myself
994
00:50:15,470 --> 00:50:18,265
with the practices
and inner workings of the Ōoku,
995
00:50:18,348 --> 00:50:21,351
I did hear that whoever
the first companion is
996
00:50:21,435 --> 00:50:23,478
that beds an unmarried shogun
997
00:50:23,562 --> 00:50:26,773
takes on a heavy title
called the "secret swain."
998
00:50:26,857 --> 00:50:31,028
And for this secret swain,
it is their final promotion.
999
00:50:31,862 --> 00:50:35,949
[Fujinami] As such, the secret swain must
willingly forfeit his life.
1000
00:50:36,867 --> 00:50:39,494
While this mantle is required
of the chosen one
1001
00:50:39,578 --> 00:50:42,998
to serve the very important function
of introducing the virgin shogun
1002
00:50:43,081 --> 00:50:45,542
into the ways of the bedchamber
for her reign,
1003
00:50:45,625 --> 00:50:49,171
He commits a great crime
of defiling Her Highness's purity,
1004
00:50:49,254 --> 00:50:51,298
while also injuring her honored body.
1005
00:50:51,882 --> 00:50:55,093
As such, you will be
beheaded in complete secrecy.
1006
00:50:55,177 --> 00:50:57,888
This has been
a sanctified custom of the Ōoku
1007
00:50:57,971 --> 00:51:02,142
ever since the honored Kasuga decreed it
during the reign of Lord Iemitsu.
1008
00:51:02,642 --> 00:51:06,271
Nevertheless,
to be chosen is a great honor.
1009
00:51:06,354 --> 00:51:11,151
Your family's stipend will be increased,
and they will also receive a generous sum
1010
00:51:11,234 --> 00:51:13,487
that will be paid
in condolences to them.
1011
00:51:14,279 --> 00:51:16,239
And how will my death be explained?
1012
00:51:16,323 --> 00:51:19,576
I can see my family asking about
the circumstances surrounding it.
1013
00:51:19,659 --> 00:51:21,244
That you fell ill.
1014
00:51:21,328 --> 00:51:23,663
Matters pertaining
to Her Highness's bedchamber
1015
00:51:23,747 --> 00:51:26,083
cannot be released to the general public.
1016
00:51:26,166 --> 00:51:28,335
No one can ever know, for any reason.
1017
00:51:31,588 --> 00:51:35,092
Fine. If it is as you say,
then I am fully satisfied.
1018
00:51:35,175 --> 00:51:38,345
I humbly accept
my final role within the Ōoku.
1019
00:51:38,428 --> 00:51:40,097
That's wonderful!
1020
00:51:40,180 --> 00:51:42,390
Your noble gallantry is duly noted.
1021
00:51:42,474 --> 00:51:43,600
Gallant, indeed!
1022
00:51:44,184 --> 00:51:47,229
[narrator] The rumors that Mizuno
was chosen to be the secret swain
1023
00:51:47,312 --> 00:51:50,690
had spread like wildfire through the Ōoku
by noon of that day.
1024
00:51:51,191 --> 00:51:54,736
Forfeit his... But... It's far too cruel.
Punished with death?
1025
00:51:54,820 --> 00:51:55,946
[all murmuring]
1026
00:51:56,029 --> 00:52:00,242
I don't understand. I've never even heard
of such a tradition in the first place.
1027
00:52:01,743 --> 00:52:04,246
So this is the result
of your machinations?
1028
00:52:04,830 --> 00:52:08,500
I told you there was no reason
for your nerves to be unsettled, didn't I?
1029
00:52:08,583 --> 00:52:11,837
Everything went smoother
than I ever imagined it could.
1030
00:52:12,420 --> 00:52:14,172
[Sugishita] It is barbaric!
1031
00:52:15,382 --> 00:52:18,510
This has been Master Fujinami's plan
since the beginning!
1032
00:52:18,593 --> 00:52:21,179
No, what happened at the morning audience,
1033
00:52:21,263 --> 00:52:24,516
I can't imagine that there was any way
he could have planned for that in advance.
1034
00:52:24,599 --> 00:52:25,892
But still!
1035
00:52:25,976 --> 00:52:30,021
Master Fujinami must have promoted you
because he knew this moment was coming!
1036
00:52:30,605 --> 00:52:32,774
That man is an egotistical villain!
1037
00:52:33,358 --> 00:52:35,277
It is an unreasonable request!
1038
00:52:35,861 --> 00:52:38,822
This decree, it is fundamentally absurd!
1039
00:52:38,905 --> 00:52:41,324
Lord Yoshimune might not be married.
1040
00:52:41,408 --> 00:52:44,703
But I cannot believe
she never bedded a man while in Kii...
1041
00:52:44,786 --> 00:52:47,539
That's enough! My soul will be clouded.
1042
00:52:47,622 --> 00:52:48,999
I beg you to stop.
1043
00:52:51,126 --> 00:52:52,169
[sighs]
1044
00:52:52,252 --> 00:52:53,336
[gasps]
1045
00:52:54,004 --> 00:52:55,297
Yes, Master.
1046
00:53:03,305 --> 00:53:04,181
Uh...
1047
00:53:04,264 --> 00:53:06,266
[gentle music]
1048
00:53:12,022 --> 00:53:13,315
[sobs]
1049
00:53:14,191 --> 00:53:17,319
[Mizuno thinks] O-Nobu, O-Nobu.
O-Nobu, O-Nobu!
1050
00:53:17,444 --> 00:53:22,032
[sighs] If I had known, I never would have
let you out of my arms that day.
1051
00:53:23,992 --> 00:53:28,371
I should have told you that I loved you.
That you were the only one in my heart.
1052
00:53:30,749 --> 00:53:33,210
I only ever felt your warmth
through your kimono.
1053
00:53:33,793 --> 00:53:36,087
Hardly enough to carry me to a cold grave.
1054
00:53:39,341 --> 00:53:40,508
O-Nobu...
1055
00:53:48,183 --> 00:53:51,603
[Fujinami] Her Highness shall enter
the chambers at nine o'clock.
1056
00:53:52,187 --> 00:53:56,316
In an adjoining room, Matsushima
and I will stand by for the proceedings,
1057
00:53:56,399 --> 00:53:58,568
and in the bedchamber,
a monk and Kashiwagi
1058
00:53:58,652 --> 00:54:00,111
will lie in each bed, next to you.
1059
00:54:01,029 --> 00:54:02,364
[sighs]
1060
00:54:02,447 --> 00:54:04,991
Good luck with your duty tonight.
1061
00:54:07,827 --> 00:54:09,537
[cicadas chirping]
1062
00:54:24,928 --> 00:54:26,638
Put yourself at ease.
1063
00:54:26,721 --> 00:54:28,139
You may raise your head.
1064
00:54:28,223 --> 00:54:29,349
My liege.
1065
00:54:30,684 --> 00:54:33,687
That being said,
we aren't the only ones present.
1066
00:54:33,770 --> 00:54:36,898
With others nearby,
I would imagine that bedding together
1067
00:54:36,982 --> 00:54:39,401
while four men listen to our every move
1068
00:54:39,484 --> 00:54:41,903
could hardly put anyone at ease,
now would it?
1069
00:54:44,489 --> 00:54:48,159
Even if that is the case, let us endeavor
to make the best of the night.
1070
00:54:48,243 --> 00:54:49,411
Let's start.
1071
00:54:50,161 --> 00:54:52,330
"My liege" feels a bit too dry.
1072
00:54:52,414 --> 00:54:55,166
I would prefer you use
my female name, Nobu.
1073
00:54:55,250 --> 00:54:56,293
[gasps]
1074
00:54:56,376 --> 00:54:58,670
Mizuno, what was your given name?
1075
00:55:00,046 --> 00:55:01,047
Yunoshin.
1076
00:55:01,548 --> 00:55:05,427
Mizuno Yunoshin is the original name
I was given by my parents.
1077
00:55:05,510 --> 00:55:08,179
Yunoshin, huh? Quite a fine name.
1078
00:55:08,263 --> 00:55:11,308
And how about your mother
and father, are they well?
1079
00:55:11,391 --> 00:55:15,353
Yes, so far as I am aware,
they are living quite well here in Edo.
1080
00:55:15,854 --> 00:55:20,191
I see. Then this will surely cause
great distress for your parents.
1081
00:55:21,568 --> 00:55:22,694
Yunoshin.
1082
00:55:23,278 --> 00:55:24,404
Yes.
1083
00:55:24,487 --> 00:55:28,074
This was all due to my unfamiliarity
with the customs of the Ōoku.
1084
00:55:28,158 --> 00:55:30,910
You have every reason
to regard me with contempt.
1085
00:55:30,994 --> 00:55:34,372
It is a terrible fate,
but someone had to take on this role.
1086
00:55:34,456 --> 00:55:35,456
[gasps]
1087
00:55:35,999 --> 00:55:39,544
It is an inhumane tradition. Forgive me.
1088
00:55:40,545 --> 00:55:42,422
[poignant music]
1089
00:55:43,631 --> 00:55:46,885
I am not worthy of such kind words,
Your Highness.
1090
00:55:48,011 --> 00:55:51,681
But... there is one thing
I would like to ask you.
1091
00:55:51,765 --> 00:55:54,059
Go on. You have my permission to ask.
1092
00:55:57,729 --> 00:55:58,813
O-Nobu.
1093
00:56:00,899 --> 00:56:04,778
Please, I beg of you,
I beseech you to grant me this one wish.
1094
00:56:04,861 --> 00:56:08,198
To call... to call my liege O-Nobu tonight!
1095
00:56:08,281 --> 00:56:09,281
[both gasp]
1096
00:56:11,785 --> 00:56:14,204
I know all of you can hear me,
so listen well!
1097
00:56:14,788 --> 00:56:18,666
While asking for a favor in the bedchamber
is forbidden in the Ōoku code,
1098
00:56:18,750 --> 00:56:22,003
what kind of shogun would I be
if I could not grant a small wish
1099
00:56:22,087 --> 00:56:24,214
of a man who is staring death in the face?
1100
00:56:24,297 --> 00:56:25,632
[Fujinami grunts]
1101
00:56:28,802 --> 00:56:31,179
All right. Yunoshin...
1102
00:56:31,805 --> 00:56:34,140
I have no doubt that something so trivial
1103
00:56:34,224 --> 00:56:36,726
could ever help you
cast your resentment aside,
1104
00:56:37,894 --> 00:56:40,647
so the least I can do is grant your wish.
1105
00:56:42,065 --> 00:56:43,358
[gasps]
1106
00:56:45,777 --> 00:56:47,487
[sobs] O-Nobu!
1107
00:56:57,914 --> 00:57:00,500
[Mizuno sighs]
1108
00:57:02,377 --> 00:57:04,003
[sighs] Where is Her Highness?
1109
00:57:04,587 --> 00:57:08,758
Her Majesty has commanded me to let you
sleep in peace until you feel so moved.
1110
00:57:13,888 --> 00:57:15,265
Saburoza.
1111
00:57:15,348 --> 00:57:16,683
[Saburoza] My liege.
1112
00:57:17,851 --> 00:57:20,270
There is something I want you to tend to.
1113
00:57:21,187 --> 00:57:22,772
[narrator] Ten days later,
1114
00:57:23,857 --> 00:57:26,151
Mizuno's sentence
was carried out discreetly
1115
00:57:26,234 --> 00:57:28,778
in a secluded corner
of the castle grounds.
1116
00:57:28,862 --> 00:57:30,572
Please cover his face.
1117
00:57:32,240 --> 00:57:34,534
Are there any final words you wish to say?
1118
00:57:34,617 --> 00:57:37,120
No, no... There are none.
1119
00:57:38,872 --> 00:57:40,039
Very well.
1120
00:57:45,837 --> 00:57:48,006
[Mizuno thinks]
I can't even commit seppuku.
1121
00:57:49,215 --> 00:57:51,134
So this is how my life will end.
1122
00:57:51,217 --> 00:57:52,552
- [blow lands]
- [squelching]
1123
00:57:52,635 --> 00:57:53,970
[cawing]
1124
00:57:57,140 --> 00:57:59,934
[Yoshimune] And with the grave now filled,
you have died.
1125
00:58:00,018 --> 00:58:01,686
Huh? [gasps]
1126
00:58:02,270 --> 00:58:05,273
The Groom of the Bedchamber
named Mizuno from the Ōoku
1127
00:58:05,356 --> 00:58:07,275
has tragically died here today.
1128
00:58:07,775 --> 00:58:10,487
From this moment on,
you will have a new life.
1129
00:58:10,570 --> 00:58:14,824
You will take on a new name, and start
a new life as a completely different man.
1130
00:58:15,408 --> 00:58:18,578
Saburoza. You've done well. I thank you.
1131
00:58:18,661 --> 00:58:19,662
My liege.
1132
00:58:20,371 --> 00:58:22,665
[Yoshimune] This fellow is part
of the Oniwaban.
1133
00:58:22,749 --> 00:58:25,585
My secret investigator
who reports what goes on in the Ōoku.
1134
00:58:26,669 --> 00:58:28,338
You met in the Chamber of Robes.
1135
00:58:28,421 --> 00:58:29,631
[gasps]
1136
00:58:29,714 --> 00:58:33,801
He also told me of a young woman,
the daughter of Tajima-ya, the merchant.
1137
00:58:33,885 --> 00:58:35,303
O-Nobu, I believe it was?
1138
00:58:35,803 --> 00:58:39,390
Her parents have been in anguish
as she refuses to take a husband.
1139
00:58:40,517 --> 00:58:41,851
So, Yunoshin.
1140
00:58:41,935 --> 00:58:44,729
No, Shinkicki the tradesman.
1141
00:58:44,812 --> 00:58:47,398
How would you like
to do Tajima-ya a favor?
1142
00:58:47,941 --> 00:58:50,610
It would be a great help
if you could marry their daughter.
1143
00:58:51,236 --> 00:58:52,612
[gasps]
1144
00:58:54,447 --> 00:58:55,615
[gasps]
1145
00:58:56,199 --> 00:58:57,200
Mmm.
1146
00:59:01,454 --> 00:59:03,665
[sobs] My liege!
1147
00:59:04,958 --> 00:59:06,543
[romantic music]
1148
00:59:07,460 --> 00:59:11,005
Well, then?
Was my solution not very fair and wise?
1149
00:59:11,089 --> 00:59:13,591
If I am being honest, I am not impressed.
1150
00:59:13,675 --> 00:59:15,093
Although you are the shogun,
1151
00:59:15,176 --> 00:59:17,679
you should not use
the secret investigator services
1152
00:59:17,762 --> 00:59:19,347
to address such a small trifle.
1153
00:59:19,430 --> 00:59:21,266
While you may not be incorrect,
1154
00:59:21,349 --> 00:59:24,102
I don't think there is any harm
in having a bit of flexibility.
1155
00:59:24,185 --> 00:59:26,813
Regardless of how
the situation was handled,
1156
00:59:26,896 --> 00:59:30,108
the Ōoku is a terrible place,
more so than rumored.
1157
00:59:30,191 --> 00:59:33,778
Indeed. It is unthinkable
to treat the life of a young man
1158
00:59:33,861 --> 00:59:36,281
as if it were
simply a piece of garbage.
1159
00:59:36,364 --> 00:59:39,075
I will certainly see to it
that such heinous practices
1160
00:59:39,158 --> 00:59:41,119
will be abolished
during the time of my reign.
1161
00:59:41,911 --> 00:59:44,122
Men are already scarce enough
to begin with.
1162
00:59:44,205 --> 00:59:48,167
I find it abhorrent that their lives would
be wasted for such frivolous reasons!
1163
00:59:48,251 --> 00:59:51,129
- Right?
- We are in agreement about this.
1164
00:59:53,381 --> 00:59:55,466
I will have to make drastic cuts.
1165
00:59:55,550 --> 00:59:58,636
The Ōoku is very likely
to see the worst of it all.
1166
00:59:58,720 --> 01:00:01,139
MEDICINE MERCHANT TAJIMA-YA
1167
01:00:03,099 --> 01:00:04,309
Good day, sir.
1168
01:00:04,392 --> 01:00:06,644
Oh. Ohh!
1169
01:00:06,728 --> 01:00:07,728
[panting]
1170
01:00:07,770 --> 01:00:09,647
O-Nobu, O-Nobu!
1171
01:00:09,731 --> 01:00:11,149
Huh?
1172
01:00:12,734 --> 01:00:14,360
What's going on, Father?
1173
01:00:14,444 --> 01:00:17,572
I'm still suffering from my chronic
cramps, headache, stomachache and...
1174
01:00:17,655 --> 01:00:20,241
[scoffs] You're the daughter
of a medicinal herb trader!
1175
01:00:20,325 --> 01:00:22,452
- Stop that nonsense and come on!
- Um...
1176
01:00:23,995 --> 01:00:25,163
O-Nobu!
1177
01:00:25,788 --> 01:00:26,789
Huh?
1178
01:00:28,249 --> 01:00:30,668
Seriously, what is going on here? [gasps]
1179
01:00:34,255 --> 01:00:35,882
But how is it you're here?
1180
01:00:37,258 --> 01:00:40,178
Please accept my apologies,
but I can't tell you that.
1181
01:00:40,261 --> 01:00:45,099
However, I can tell you that I've always
been Shinkichi the tradesman,
1182
01:00:45,183 --> 01:00:49,270
and that you and I have known each other
since childhood, only to end up married.
1183
01:00:50,480 --> 01:00:52,398
[sobbing]
1184
01:00:57,362 --> 01:00:59,781
[narrator] The record of the Ōoku
on this day
1185
01:00:59,864 --> 01:01:03,368
only stated that a Groom of the Bedchamber
by the name of Mizuno
1186
01:01:03,451 --> 01:01:06,162
passed away due to a sudden illness.
1187
01:01:08,539 --> 01:01:10,708
[drumbeats]
1188
01:01:15,421 --> 01:01:17,674
I am in shock, Your Highness!
1189
01:01:17,757 --> 01:01:19,467
You look so grand and stern!
1190
01:01:19,550 --> 01:01:21,177
Hmm. I woke up this morning,
1191
01:01:21,260 --> 01:01:24,222
and before I knew it,
my attendants dressed me like this.
1192
01:01:24,305 --> 01:01:28,226
They say it is protocol for me to hold
audience with foreigners in the Ōoku
1193
01:01:28,309 --> 01:01:30,311
while dressed in ceremonial male attire.
1194
01:01:30,395 --> 01:01:31,562
So off I go.
1195
01:01:35,066 --> 01:01:36,651
[dramatic music]
1196
01:01:37,360 --> 01:01:41,781
[narrator] The Capitão, the head curator
of the Dutch trading house, later wrote,
1197
01:01:41,864 --> 01:01:46,577
"Upon arrival at Edo Castle,
I alone was ushered into the chamber."
1198
01:01:47,704 --> 01:01:51,332
"Unlike the European courts,
there are only men in the castle."
1199
01:01:51,833 --> 01:01:54,627
"Women must be kept elsewhere,
in separate quarters,
1200
01:01:54,711 --> 01:01:57,046
in the way they do in the Turkish palace."
1201
01:01:58,548 --> 01:02:00,174
[Fujinami] Enter, Dutch Capitão!
1202
01:02:02,260 --> 01:02:04,262
[man, in Dutch]
A question for the Opperhoofd.
1203
01:02:04,345 --> 01:02:05,513
Oh?
1204
01:02:08,474 --> 01:02:13,521
[in Dutch] We hear that there are
no women in your party.
1205
01:02:13,604 --> 01:02:14,604
Why?
1206
01:02:15,732 --> 01:02:18,276
[in Dutch] Well, you see,
that is because, uh...
1207
01:02:18,359 --> 01:02:20,027
Your Highness, with respect,
1208
01:02:20,111 --> 01:02:22,572
he previously mentioned
they cannot bring women with them
1209
01:02:22,655 --> 01:02:24,699
as the voyage is long and arduous.
1210
01:02:25,324 --> 01:02:27,034
- What do you mean by that?
- [gasps]
1211
01:02:27,118 --> 01:02:30,538
Do you mean to tell me
that all Dutch women are weak and sickly?
1212
01:02:30,621 --> 01:02:32,290
Uh, Your Highness!
1213
01:02:33,583 --> 01:02:35,626
Uh, send the foreigner out, right away!
1214
01:02:36,210 --> 01:02:37,545
And you, too!
1215
01:02:37,628 --> 01:02:40,798
How dare an interpreter receive words
directly from Her Highness
1216
01:02:40,882 --> 01:02:42,592
when he should merely translate?
1217
01:02:42,675 --> 01:02:45,303
Mmm. I humbly beg your forgiveness...
1218
01:02:45,386 --> 01:02:48,097
Your Highness,
in an audience with a foreigner,
1219
01:02:48,181 --> 01:02:51,184
protocol dictates that you are not
to address him directly.
1220
01:02:52,018 --> 01:02:54,187
- And why is that?
- I do not know!
1221
01:02:56,773 --> 01:02:58,107
[footsteps]
1222
01:02:58,191 --> 01:02:59,942
- [Yoshimune] Omitsu.
- My liege?
1223
01:03:02,612 --> 01:03:03,696
Hisamichi.
1224
01:03:04,280 --> 01:03:07,700
My liege?
Is something bothering you, Your Highness?
1225
01:03:10,578 --> 01:03:12,371
Omitsu and Hisamichi.
1226
01:03:12,455 --> 01:03:14,373
Both of these names refer to you.
1227
01:03:14,457 --> 01:03:16,584
Ever since my succession, yes.
1228
01:03:16,667 --> 01:03:18,961
The shogunate only accepts male names,
1229
01:03:19,045 --> 01:03:22,340
and as I became the head
of the Kano family, the law required one.
1230
01:03:22,423 --> 01:03:24,050
Why do you think that is?
1231
01:03:24,133 --> 01:03:25,259
Hmm?
1232
01:03:26,385 --> 01:03:30,973
Well, perhaps because
"The Governor of Totomi, Kano Omitsu,"
1233
01:03:31,057 --> 01:03:34,560
well, something about it sounds off,
or a bit silly, don't you think?
1234
01:03:36,395 --> 01:03:39,649
I wonder, is it truly
something as simple as that?
1235
01:03:40,358 --> 01:03:44,320
Somehow, the name "Hisamichi" sits well,
while "Omitsu" does not.
1236
01:03:44,403 --> 01:03:46,989
This is a symptom
where the root cause of the matter
1237
01:03:47,073 --> 01:03:50,827
lies in the fact that we somehow feel
that this is the way things should be.
1238
01:03:51,410 --> 01:03:52,829
My liege?
1239
01:03:52,912 --> 01:03:54,831
Oh, never mind.
1240
01:03:54,914 --> 01:03:55,998
It's nothing.
1241
01:03:56,082 --> 01:03:58,584
Pay these words no mind
as I speak to myself.
1242
01:03:58,668 --> 01:04:02,713
So I shall. I will only ever be
your hands and legs, Your Highness.
1243
01:04:03,297 --> 01:04:05,216
I move to your will in silence.
1244
01:04:05,299 --> 01:04:06,299
Hmm.
1245
01:04:06,759 --> 01:04:09,220
Hisamichi, you never fail to impress.
1246
01:04:09,303 --> 01:04:11,305
[both laughing]
1247
01:04:15,268 --> 01:04:18,229
Listen, everyone!
A garden audience has been called!
1248
01:04:18,312 --> 01:04:19,647
Master Fujinami!
1249
01:04:19,730 --> 01:04:23,234
The day after tomorrow,
our liege is to hold a garden audience.
1250
01:04:23,317 --> 01:04:24,485
[all] Wow...
1251
01:04:24,569 --> 01:04:27,530
I have been ordered to assemble
around 50 men of good looks,
1252
01:04:27,613 --> 01:04:29,991
who are younger than 35 years of age.
1253
01:04:30,700 --> 01:04:33,619
[narrator] The garden audience is
a ritual in the Ōoku,
1254
01:04:33,703 --> 01:04:36,205
where handsome men
are assembled in the garden.
1255
01:04:36,706 --> 01:04:41,502
It is there that the shogun chooses
a companion to take to her bedchamber.
1256
01:04:42,086 --> 01:04:44,547
[thinks] As the Senior Chamberlain
of the Ōoku,
1257
01:04:44,630 --> 01:04:47,425
this is where I show my skills! [chuckles]
1258
01:04:48,092 --> 01:04:51,262
[Fujinami] Quickly, relay the message
to all other chambers.
1259
01:04:51,345 --> 01:04:53,973
- [all] Sir!
- [Fujinami] We have not a moment to lose!
1260
01:04:55,600 --> 01:04:57,518
[birdsong]
1261
01:04:57,602 --> 01:04:58,519
[jingling]
1262
01:04:58,603 --> 01:05:03,524
[footman] Bow in reverence!
Her Highness has arrived!
1263
01:05:17,455 --> 01:05:19,707
We have awaited your arrival,
Your Highness.
1264
01:05:19,790 --> 01:05:22,418
The men you requested are
in the nearby garden.
1265
01:05:22,501 --> 01:05:26,339
I pray that you will inspect them
until your heart finds contentment.
1266
01:05:38,184 --> 01:05:39,393
[gasps]
1267
01:05:40,269 --> 01:05:41,604
Whoa.
1268
01:05:41,687 --> 01:05:43,564
[dramatic music]
1269
01:05:56,535 --> 01:05:58,412
So that's what he did.
1270
01:05:58,496 --> 01:06:01,457
They are all dressed
in the same black formal attire.
1271
01:06:01,540 --> 01:06:04,794
You have done well
in remembering what catches my eye.
1272
01:06:04,877 --> 01:06:07,213
A memory of when I spoke to Mizuno.
1273
01:06:08,005 --> 01:06:11,217
Indeed, the spirit
of simplicity and frugality
1274
01:06:11,300 --> 01:06:13,594
should be applied in the Ōoku as well.
1275
01:06:18,265 --> 01:06:22,645
That said, it is in this line of thinking
that I have gathered you all here today.
1276
01:06:23,145 --> 01:06:25,231
I hereby dismiss you from service.
1277
01:06:25,314 --> 01:06:26,482
[all gasp]
1278
01:06:26,565 --> 01:06:27,565
[gasps]
1279
01:06:28,067 --> 01:06:31,779
Listen well! The 50 men assembled here are
dismissed immediately,
1280
01:06:31,862 --> 01:06:34,281
and must depart the Ōoku by nightfall.
1281
01:06:34,365 --> 01:06:36,701
As you well know,
the shogunate cannot maintain
1282
01:06:36,784 --> 01:06:39,203
its current financial situation
for much longer.
1283
01:06:39,286 --> 01:06:42,498
Therefore, cutting costs
in the Inner Chambers was inevitable.
1284
01:06:42,581 --> 01:06:45,042
So, why would I choose
the group before me?
1285
01:06:45,126 --> 01:06:46,126
I'll tell you.
1286
01:06:46,585 --> 01:06:50,423
The 50 men who kneel before me are
all young and beautiful with many talents.
1287
01:06:50,506 --> 01:06:54,510
You'll have no problem finding good
prospects in marriage outside the castle.
1288
01:06:54,593 --> 01:06:57,555
- Uh... But, my liege...
- Tell me, Fujinami.
1289
01:06:57,638 --> 01:07:00,307
- Uh...
- Are we not in agreement on this?
1290
01:07:00,391 --> 01:07:03,602
That we are wasting the blosssoming beauty
of these young men in their prime
1291
01:07:03,686 --> 01:07:05,646
while they are in service of the Ōoku?
1292
01:07:05,730 --> 01:07:09,025
Are they not doomed
to wither away behind castle walls?
1293
01:07:09,608 --> 01:07:10,901
Listen, all of you.
1294
01:07:10,985 --> 01:07:14,905
I want you to find a good family to marry
into while you're young and beautiful,
1295
01:07:14,989 --> 01:07:17,867
so that you may live a happy life
in your hometowns.
1296
01:07:18,409 --> 01:07:21,537
That you all should find happiness
is my sincerest wish.
1297
01:07:22,163 --> 01:07:23,163
Thank you.
1298
01:07:24,290 --> 01:07:26,542
Ah... Uh, but, please, my liege!
1299
01:07:26,625 --> 01:07:28,794
Please! My liege!
1300
01:07:28,878 --> 01:07:30,171
[gasps]
1301
01:07:31,130 --> 01:07:33,132
[gasping and sobbing]
1302
01:07:34,133 --> 01:07:36,260
K... Kashiwagi...
1303
01:07:36,927 --> 01:07:39,805
How did... how did it come to this?
1304
01:07:40,514 --> 01:07:41,682
So I lost.
1305
01:07:42,475 --> 01:07:44,643
You have bested us, Lord Yoshimune.
1306
01:07:45,144 --> 01:07:48,731
She is a far more cunning adversary
than any of us gave her credit for.
1307
01:07:49,648 --> 01:07:50,775
[laughing]
1308
01:07:52,651 --> 01:07:54,570
- [Fujinami] Lord Kano!
- [Hisamichi] No!
1309
01:07:54,653 --> 01:07:55,571
[gasps]
1310
01:07:55,654 --> 01:07:58,407
Oh! Master Fujinami, please calm yourself...
1311
01:07:58,491 --> 01:08:00,785
You have made a fool out of me!
1312
01:08:00,868 --> 01:08:03,829
Downsizing the courtiers in the Ōoku
is out of the question!
1313
01:08:03,913 --> 01:08:06,707
I believe it is high time
that Lord Yoshimune be told
1314
01:08:06,791 --> 01:08:09,085
to stop ignoring
the conventions of the Ōoku!
1315
01:08:09,668 --> 01:08:12,296
- Oh! [whimpers]
- Woman.
1316
01:08:12,379 --> 01:08:15,091
You country bumpkins are
getting ahead of yourselves.
1317
01:08:15,174 --> 01:08:17,968
Not once since its founding during
the reign of Tokugawa
1318
01:08:18,052 --> 01:08:20,554
has the shogunate dared
to meddle in the affairs of the state
1319
01:08:20,638 --> 01:08:23,766
and found a happy ending whenever
they found themselves in opposition
1320
01:08:23,849 --> 01:08:25,142
to those of us in the Ōoku!
1321
01:08:25,226 --> 01:08:26,226
Got it?
1322
01:08:28,521 --> 01:08:33,400
[sighs] You know, now that you broach
the subject of traditional conventions,
1323
01:08:33,484 --> 01:08:35,277
I remember one such convention is
1324
01:08:35,361 --> 01:08:37,905
to dismiss those
who served the previous shogun
1325
01:08:37,988 --> 01:08:40,074
and replace every single one of them.
1326
01:08:40,157 --> 01:08:43,619
From the highest courtiers to
the lowest houseboy, and all in between.
1327
01:08:43,702 --> 01:08:44,870
[gasps] Ah!
1328
01:08:45,538 --> 01:08:47,873
And that, Senior Chamberlain,
1329
01:08:47,957 --> 01:08:50,209
would include your honorable self.
1330
01:08:50,292 --> 01:08:51,710
[whimpers]
1331
01:08:51,794 --> 01:08:54,463
However, out of her kind consideration,
1332
01:08:54,547 --> 01:08:57,174
Her Highness has allowed you
to stay in the Ōoku
1333
01:08:57,258 --> 01:08:59,176
as an exception to that convention.
1334
01:08:59,844 --> 01:09:03,722
As a man of cunning and experience,
I am sure you are able
1335
01:09:03,806 --> 01:09:06,851
to deduce the intentions
Her Highness has behind that choice
1336
01:09:06,934 --> 01:09:09,895
far more readily
than a country bumpkin like myself.
1337
01:09:10,688 --> 01:09:12,106
[Fujinami gasps]
1338
01:09:15,359 --> 01:09:16,569
Huh?
1339
01:09:17,236 --> 01:09:20,573
"The intentions Her Highness has
behind that choi..." Oh!
1340
01:09:21,157 --> 01:09:23,701
Dismissing those 50 courtiers from service
1341
01:09:23,784 --> 01:09:27,204
was leveraged against
the continuation of your position here.
1342
01:09:27,288 --> 01:09:28,288
[spluttering]
1343
01:09:28,330 --> 01:09:30,666
Really, this worked in your favor.
1344
01:09:34,587 --> 01:09:38,215
[Hisamichi] Those who remain in the Ōoku
may not be particularly young,
1345
01:09:38,299 --> 01:09:41,010
but they are well trained
in carrying out their duties,
1346
01:09:41,093 --> 01:09:43,470
and they seem unmoved
by the recent changes.
1347
01:09:43,554 --> 01:09:45,723
Concerning the new edict for attire,
1348
01:09:45,806 --> 01:09:47,726
there are very few complaints
against your orders
1349
01:09:47,808 --> 01:09:50,311
to make the formal attire
with plain fabrics,
1350
01:09:50,394 --> 01:09:53,022
now that the number of young men
has decreased.
1351
01:09:53,105 --> 01:09:56,233
That so? Good. I am glad to hear it.
1352
01:09:56,817 --> 01:10:01,071
Yet another male name listed in here,
and it says he has a wife, as well.
1353
01:10:01,155 --> 01:10:02,948
I don't understand.
1354
01:10:03,032 --> 01:10:04,658
Um, my liege?
1355
01:10:04,742 --> 01:10:05,993
Yes, what is it?
1356
01:10:06,076 --> 01:10:09,747
The day is half passed, so perhaps
you should change robes, Your Highness?
1357
01:10:09,830 --> 01:10:11,957
Changing attire is
something I would have done
1358
01:10:12,041 --> 01:10:15,002
had I not been busy
from the moment I awoke this morning.
1359
01:10:15,085 --> 01:10:18,589
I have already had a successful meeting
with Senior Councilor Tsuchiya Masanao
1360
01:10:18,672 --> 01:10:19,757
in my present state.
1361
01:10:20,507 --> 01:10:23,636
[narrator] Yoshimune spent most of her
time on the affairs of the state,
1362
01:10:23,719 --> 01:10:26,889
and her indifference to appearance
often came as a shock.
1363
01:10:27,723 --> 01:10:32,770
Yoshimune also did not appreciate overly
elaborate ceremonies for her bedchamber.
1364
01:10:33,646 --> 01:10:35,147
[yelps]
1365
01:10:36,607 --> 01:10:39,026
A woman? Oh! Your Highness!
1366
01:10:39,109 --> 01:10:40,027
Your name?
1367
01:10:40,110 --> 01:10:42,154
Uh... Unokichi...
1368
01:10:42,238 --> 01:10:46,283
Unokichi.
I have precious little time this morning.
1369
01:10:46,367 --> 01:10:48,535
- So, quiet.
- [mumbles]
1370
01:10:48,619 --> 01:10:52,539
[woman] Bow in reverence.
Her Highness has arrived!
1371
01:10:52,623 --> 01:10:53,623
[Hisamichi] Hmm?
1372
01:10:56,752 --> 01:10:58,045
A leaf?
1373
01:10:58,128 --> 01:11:00,047
[wistful music]
1374
01:11:03,884 --> 01:11:04,802
[gasps]
1375
01:11:04,885 --> 01:11:06,470
[grunting]
1376
01:11:09,223 --> 01:11:10,223
Gah!
1377
01:11:11,350 --> 01:11:13,978
Oh. Your... Your Highness?
1378
01:11:14,728 --> 01:11:16,772
Be quiet. Hmm?
1379
01:11:17,273 --> 01:11:19,191
- [gasps]
- What's going on here?
1380
01:11:19,275 --> 01:11:21,735
You're both fit and incredibly handsome!
1381
01:11:21,819 --> 01:11:22,819
Huh?
1382
01:11:23,153 --> 01:11:25,072
What's your name? Tell me your rank.
1383
01:11:25,155 --> 01:11:26,155
[gasps]
1384
01:11:26,198 --> 01:11:28,826
My name is Sugishita,
serving in the Large Hall.
1385
01:11:28,909 --> 01:11:32,246
Sugishita? Good fortune I found you, then.
1386
01:11:32,329 --> 01:11:34,581
You are dismissed from service
as of today.
1387
01:11:34,665 --> 01:11:37,042
- Await instructions in your quarters.
- [gasps]
1388
01:11:37,126 --> 01:11:41,755
Your Highness, with all due respect,
I have served faithfully for many years.
1389
01:11:41,839 --> 01:11:45,384
The Ōoku is my last chance
of a home remaining in this world.
1390
01:11:45,467 --> 01:11:48,554
As such, I have already reached
the age of 35,
1391
01:11:48,637 --> 01:11:50,347
and due to the Ōoku code,
1392
01:11:50,431 --> 01:11:53,309
I am prohibited from being
your companion, my liege.
1393
01:11:53,392 --> 01:11:55,060
I beg for your mercy.
1394
01:12:00,232 --> 01:12:01,232
Uh...
1395
01:12:03,527 --> 01:12:06,280
Well, then. Your name was Sugishita?
1396
01:12:07,031 --> 01:12:10,284
Sorry. To trouble you was not my intent.
1397
01:12:12,286 --> 01:12:13,620
[narrator] After their encounter,
1398
01:12:13,704 --> 01:12:16,749
Sugishita was promoted
to Groom of the Bedchamber
1399
01:12:16,832 --> 01:12:19,126
to serve as Yoshimune's
personal attendant.
1400
01:12:19,877 --> 01:12:22,004
[Sugishita] Master Murase...
1401
01:12:22,087 --> 01:12:23,797
You mean, the Chief Scribe?
1402
01:12:24,298 --> 01:12:27,551
[narrator] The Chief Scribe is in charge
of writing documents and missives
1403
01:12:27,634 --> 01:12:29,553
addressed to the Outer Chambers
and beyond,
1404
01:12:29,636 --> 01:12:32,723
as well as recording
the daily events in the Ōoku.
1405
01:12:34,516 --> 01:12:36,935
Hmm. From what I've heard thus far,
1406
01:12:37,019 --> 01:12:40,356
he has served as a Scribe since
he was appointed a long time ago.
1407
01:12:40,439 --> 01:12:43,359
The Honorable Kasuga assigned him
the post in the Ōoku,
1408
01:12:43,442 --> 01:12:46,403
where he has remained
throughout the reigns of my predecessors.
1409
01:12:46,487 --> 01:12:49,281
Yes, that is in line
with what I have heard as well.
1410
01:12:49,782 --> 01:12:50,616
He is...
1411
01:12:50,699 --> 01:12:54,536
[Yoshimune] I wish to meet with him,
as I have a question that needs answering.
1412
01:12:56,121 --> 01:12:57,164
Yes.
1413
01:12:57,247 --> 01:13:02,419
It's just... Master Murase is quite elderly,
as he is currently at the age of 97.
1414
01:13:02,503 --> 01:13:04,963
He is normally sequestered away
in his chambers,
1415
01:13:05,047 --> 01:13:07,800
and as such, I know not
when last he was seen, my liege.
1416
01:13:07,883 --> 01:13:11,303
Hmm. All the more reason
I should meet with him soon.
1417
01:13:11,387 --> 01:13:13,055
[crickets buzzing]
1418
01:13:15,307 --> 01:13:16,392
Here, Your Highness.
1419
01:13:31,532 --> 01:13:33,951
[man] Pa... pardon me. Master Murase?
1420
01:13:34,034 --> 01:13:35,202
[Murase] Hmm?
1421
01:13:35,285 --> 01:13:37,204
[man] Her Highness is here to see you.
1422
01:13:41,041 --> 01:13:43,961
Oh... Well, now, this is interesting.
1423
01:13:51,677 --> 01:13:53,137
[Yoshimune] I have a request.
1424
01:13:55,055 --> 01:13:59,476
It it my wish to see the records of
the Ōoku that you keep safeguarded here.
1425
01:13:59,560 --> 01:14:02,896
I understand that these records are
only for the eyes of those
1426
01:14:02,980 --> 01:14:06,066
who dwell within the halls of the Ōoku
and the shogun herself.
1427
01:14:06,150 --> 01:14:08,902
[chuckles] It is as you say, my liege.
1428
01:14:08,986 --> 01:14:11,989
You are quite well versed
in the code of the Ōoku...
1429
01:14:12,072 --> 01:14:17,202
So, as the archive spans decades,
which period do you wish to view?
1430
01:14:17,286 --> 01:14:19,788
Every record
that was written by your hand.
1431
01:14:19,872 --> 01:14:23,000
All that the the Honored Kasuga
deemed worthy of writing.
1432
01:14:23,709 --> 01:14:25,627
[dramatic music]
1433
01:14:26,211 --> 01:14:29,173
The inscription of these archives
have been the work of your lifetime,
1434
01:14:29,256 --> 01:14:30,256
have they not?
1435
01:14:31,133 --> 01:14:35,137
And what, pray tell, leads
this recent curiosity, Your Highness?
1436
01:14:36,180 --> 01:14:38,182
When I was just a young child,
1437
01:14:38,265 --> 01:14:41,185
there was a deranged old man
who lived at the edge of the village
1438
01:14:41,268 --> 01:14:42,644
who would rant and rave.
1439
01:14:43,312 --> 01:14:47,649
He would say there used to be as many men
as there were women back in the old days.
1440
01:14:48,692 --> 01:14:51,278
Of course, no one believed his ramblings.
1441
01:14:51,361 --> 01:14:53,238
But there are times where I wonder.
1442
01:14:54,239 --> 01:14:58,660
I wonder if this is the way this country
has always been, ever since the beginning.
1443
01:14:59,995 --> 01:15:03,832
Why do you have to take a male name
if you succeed to the head of the family?
1444
01:15:04,416 --> 01:15:06,585
If you delve into the official records,
1445
01:15:06,668 --> 01:15:09,630
It would seem as though there
are only men in this country.
1446
01:15:10,255 --> 01:15:12,966
Thus presently,
this tradition makes it impossible
1447
01:15:13,050 --> 01:15:15,928
to create an accurate record
of the state of affairs.
1448
01:15:16,011 --> 01:15:21,183
I wish to abolish this custom
of changing names unnecessarily. But...
1449
01:15:21,266 --> 01:15:26,021
But what if there is some logic
behind the custom that requires it?
1450
01:15:32,277 --> 01:15:33,277
Hmm.
1451
01:15:33,779 --> 01:15:38,367
I have waited for a long time.
A very long time, indeed.
1452
01:15:38,867 --> 01:15:41,370
But no one has asked to come and see me
1453
01:15:41,453 --> 01:15:43,789
until you decided to visit me today,
my liege.
1454
01:15:43,872 --> 01:15:45,207
THE CHRONICLES OF THE DYING DAY
1455
01:15:45,791 --> 01:15:49,002
"The Chronicles of the Dying Day."
Has this always been its name?
1456
01:15:49,795 --> 01:15:51,964
The title was mandated by decree.
1457
01:15:52,047 --> 01:15:56,510
It was the Honored Kasuga
that gave the order,
1458
01:15:56,593 --> 01:15:59,471
the sentiment being
that this country shall fall.
1459
01:15:59,555 --> 01:16:03,475
This record was intended to serve
as a chronicle to its doomed fate.
1460
01:16:04,351 --> 01:16:08,105
You were here when he created the Ōoku
all those years ago, correct?
1461
01:16:08,188 --> 01:16:10,482
What sort of man was the Honored Kasuga?
1462
01:16:13,527 --> 01:16:16,196
The Honored Kasuga was no man, my liege.
1463
01:16:16,280 --> 01:16:18,865
The Honored Kasuga was a woman.
1464
01:16:20,576 --> 01:16:23,537
And as for the third shogun, Lord Iemitsu,
1465
01:16:23,620 --> 01:16:27,499
at his birth,
he was not a woman but a man.
1466
01:16:27,583 --> 01:16:28,625
Hmm.
1467
01:16:29,251 --> 01:16:30,502
Very well, then.
1468
01:16:31,587 --> 01:16:35,674
I expect that reading this record will
explain everything in minute detail.
1469
01:16:36,592 --> 01:16:40,846
THE CHRONICLES OF THE DYING DAY
1470
01:16:44,266 --> 01:16:46,018
[dramatic music]
1471
01:16:46,101 --> 01:16:47,894
THE CHRONICLES OF THE DYING DAY
1472
01:18:19,569 --> 01:18:23,115
THE CHRONICLES OF THE DYING DAY