Hana no Ato
After the Flowers.
Emperor Saga was the one
that adopted this custom.
Cherry blossom viewing.
was originally a custom, limited
to the elite of the Imperial Court.
Cherry blossoms along the river was
such a wonderful sight to behold.
Although sake was prohibited,
it was still pleasant.
Having lunch amidst the blossoms.
You'll hear people enjoying
with cheer and laughter.
Gives one comfort and tranquility.
However...
that is not all.
Blossoms not only mesmerizes
women and children.
But transcends hierarchy and
caste systems.
So that everyone can
appreciate it's full glory.
It is said that His Majesty once came to view
the blossoms dressed as an unknown warrior.
Looked for a bride amidst
the blossoming flowers.
Whether it's story holds any
truth is beyond me.
However as this rumor
became prevalent.
Whenever Cherry blossoms, families
insisted elegance in kimonos attire.
But my grandmother do
not care for such.
She was interested in
sword fighting craft.
She didn't care how
others view her much.
This is a story of more
than 50 years ago.
Lady Ito.
We'll settle down here.
Yes.
Lady Ito?
Lady Tusue is here.
You're here.
Yes. I'm here.
You can lay down here as well.
The cherry blossoms here
are wonderful in full bloom.
I'm afraid not.
With you here. Other men
might not approach.
What?
News have spread.
That you were victorious
in Hagai dojo.
The dojo is now infamous.
Because none of the
men can beat you.
I see.
Like the saying goes for anyone who's
had an achievement in martial arts.
You are a difficult person
to get near to.
I'll say my farewell then.
She is so realistic.
Regardless that you're sisters.
We'll never find another
similar relative like her.
Well. As the eldest daughter
of the Clan elder.
I guess it's inevitable.
Well, it's time we return.
Why are we leaving so early?
If we were to leave late.
There's gonna be a crowd
returning to the city,
Your father will not approve
of us returning late.
C'mon.
Yes.
Most unfortunate.
The blooms are only fleeting.
Excuse me?
Forgive me if I am wrong.
Are you the daughter of
Clan Elder Mr. Terai?
Yes.
I'm from Hagai Dojo.
I've heard of your abilities.
Unfortunate that I was
unable to attend.
Oh! Are you Eguchi ?
I am Eguchi, Magoshiro.
Pity I had missed the chance.
So do I.
I've hear that you have
excellent sword skills.
No.
I have learned a lot myself.
I consider myself lucky to have won.
You're too modest.
I would like the opportunity to
have a friendly duel with you.
I would like the chance
to learn from you.
Lady Ito. It's time.
I'm sorry to have
taken your time.
Until the next time.
Til the next time then.
You shouldn't talk to him.
You know nothing of him.
And he looks of a lower caste.
I'm not sure.
Eguchi is the top swordsman
of the Hagai Dojo.
When father took me to
look at him practice.
No one could beat him.
No matter.
Even if you were just talking
about sword play.
You still have to be aware of
who you converse with in public.
Don't over react, Osa.
Anyway, we just talked
about swordplay.
In any case,
Don't tell mom about this.
She'll be unhappy,
if she learns about this.
Osa? Please keep this to yourself.
Is this a tale of young love?
Take a guess.
Unrequited love.
A love story unlike another.
That's full of sweet joy.
We can say that the heart
suffers bitter in love.
Listen carefully to what
I am about to reveal.
- With a little sesame.
- Yes.
- Are they finishing work?
- Yes.
Lady Ito's home!
- That is all.
- Yes.
Sorry for being late.
Welcome home.
How was this year's
cherry blossoms?
Very beautiful. Just
like last year.
I see.
Father?
Come in.
What is it?
I have a request.
Eguchi have requested
for a friendly duel.
Eguchi?
Eguchi, Magoshiro from
Hagai Dojo.
I happened to run into
him a few days ago.
When I was viewing
the cherry blossoms.
Heard Lady Sai's betrothed
to the Shiraiyino family.
At last it's our turn.
Is that so.
Marriages are all arranged.
Speaking of.
When's Saisuke returning from Edo?
Soon...
The Abbot's here.
Tomorrow.
Eguchi will come over tomorrow.
Eguchi?
Prepare yourself.
Yes.
Excuse me? I'm Eguchi, Magoshiro!
You're early?
Yes. Is this inappropriate?
Are you in a rush?
No. I'm not in any urgency.
I've long heard of
the Clan Elders' home.
Thought I'll come early for a tour.
Hope I'm not being too intrusive.
But before that. Let's
finish the duel.
Yes. Let's proceed to
the inner courtyard.
My father would be the judge.
Most honored.
Ready! Begin.
End of competition.
Marvelous.
As you now realize.
You still have much to learn.
No. She has done well.
Give Eguchi a tour
of our home.
Yes.
I will take my leave.
Yes.
Thank you for the
lesson today.
The honors mine.
Please hold for a while.
I've never had someone
appreciate my skills.
Beyond my femininity.
You must be feeling overwhelmed.
Towards Eguchi, Magoshiro.
Promise you'll never
see him again.
Lest you forget you
have been betrothed.
Yes.
Heard that Eguchi is also engaged.
Let's start practicing
the tea ceremony.
Let's start off with
napkin etiquette.
Is Saisuke not back yet?
Yes...
Hasn't it been 4 years?
I think so.
Hope he doesn't have
learning disabilities.
Stop saying such things.
Maybe he chose to stay in Edo.
Maybe...
He has gone to a
reputable private school.
Or something else
is holding him there.
Being a adult may not
make him a wise man.
Excuse me.
Please accept my apologies.
Due to the recent happenings.
Thus was unable to perform
ceremonial practice at home.
It's been some time since
we have acquainted.
A good move.
She has the Abbot eating
outta her hand.
She have her way with men.
- Heard that the marriage was hasten.
- What...
Lady Kayo made the
marriage proposal herself?
Yes.
Heard her father's health isn't well.
The family have placed a great
effort in the wedding.
Everythings settled.
Marrying into a family
she knows nothing of.
Didn't they communicate before.
No, they didn't.
About a year ago in small town,
in a tea house called Aoyagi.
Lady Kayo was seen colluding
with Lord Fujii, Kageyu.
Sneaking around in the
lateness of night.
- Well, she's already 15.
- No.
She won't know
if she won't try.
Lady Kayo.
Numerous men have fallen
for her looks and schemes.
I see.
I do pity Eguchi's family.
Eguchi?
Yes.
Heard Kayo's getting married
to the 3rd son, Eguchi.
Family's name is Magoshiro.
Do you know him?
No.
He must not have heard
rumors about Kayo's past.
Even heard that,
Lady Kayo's marriage with the Naito
family is for the sake of political influence.
For generations, Naito's family had the prestige of
taking charge of the lord's business and dealings.
And Eguchi's the head
swordsman of Nagai Dojo.
A marriage of convenience.
Even a fool knows.
How about this?
Texture and lining is
refine and elegant.
Yes, I see.
Then how about this?
It'll look extremely
pleasing on Eguchi.
Lady Ito's home!
- I'm home.
- You're late!
Eh?
Saisuke's back from the Edo.
What?
I'm home.
Welcome home.
Did Saisuke met up
with father?
Yes.
The two was able to sit
and talk a little.
How long did Saisuke
mention he was staying?
Back today.
He'll be returning to Edo then.
May I ask the reason?
Heard that he ran
into financial problems.
Seems that Master have
given him some money.
Must have been
embarrassed to see you.
New Year's morning and evening wear,
until the 7th day. Samurai attire.
Appropriate warrior's linen attire,
the night before the
eve of spring.
Official attire during visits,
linen attire.
Reserved for formal occasions.
Casual wear for same
month on the 24th.
Official attire during court visits...
Naito?
Your presence is needed.
Eguchi changed his name
to Naito Magoshiro.
Naito was quick to
climb the rungs.
I'm really envious.
Even the best sword.
Will one day end. Like
everything else in this world.
You are hereby informed.
We have again been given the
responsibility for the city's businesses.
To act as agent for the shogunate
and his imperial messengers.
As an officer that was to
behold throughout generations.
Bear this in mind in the
honor of the clan of Naito.
You are not to let disgrace
befall on this house.
Yes.
This is your new
lord. Kageyu Fujii.
Naito Magoshiro I assume?
Yes.
- Do your utmost.
- Yes.
News received a month ago,
from the Naito's clan.
The lord have made their decision.
Magoshiro is taking the clan name.
Then his engagement to Kayo
have to be brought forward.
This is what the lord wishes
under these circumstances.
Now Eguchi Magoshiro will
start his political life.
We have not had time to consider
whether he has become a true swordsman.
In the olden days, a true swordsman
have a true value in the society.
Are there anyone in the clan that
possesses remarkable swordsmanship.
But a man too obsessed
with swordsmanship.
Will never grace himself with a
proper official placement.
This is part of society and life.
For the political climate of the country.
It's better to forego the pursuit of swordsmanship.
What exactly is the way
of the warrior (Bushido)?
Dilemma.
How long have father
been in Edo?
Because his clothings
looks aged.
The clan demanded his attention.
So it's been 2 to 3 years.
During that time mother
must've been lonely.
Leaving for Edo soon
after the marriage.
Father did of course end his pugilistic
road. Discharging his loyalty to the country.
Your father did his part
as the dutiful father.
Your father was eagerly anticipating
the day that you were born.
Your father rushed back
from town.
When he found out that
you're a girl.
His face froze.
I can never forget.
Til today, I can still
remember his look.
The essence of swordsmanship is something
politicians will never understand.
This is not a subject that
can be easily argued.
No.
The Code of Bushido doesn't
mean giving up a career in Edo.
Only teachers like
yourself can.
I didn't distance myself from country
service because I wanted to.
Just the opposite.
As the 2nd son who
isn't an achiever.
Not getting an official
placement.
But depending instead
on family's wealth.
Well, sword fighting for me is
more like an escape.
If I were given a chance
like Magoshiro.
I would have chosen
a political career.
You wouldn't understand.
End of lesson!
Magoshiro? Let's have a go at it.
No. I have matters
to attend to.
I'll take my leave.
These are my recommendations.
Hondai Shinogeo!?
Yes!
Kudira Genjiro!?
Yes!
Nakanura Heima!?
Yes!
Kato Azo!?
Yes!
Akio Tangei!?
Yes!
Shumaki!?
Shumaki Jingobear!?
Yes!
Sakiguchi Tarohaimo!?
Yes!
Thank you very much.
The old are impatient, no?
You did well. On
your 1st day.
This is wonderful.
I'm not talking about
his family's background.
I know.
You're smitten with the Mizuno.
Yes...
I was here with Lady
Kayo before.
I guess we won't be
coming here anymore.
When she marries. It would no longer
be convenient to come to baths.
You're right.
Everything's coming to an end.
Unfortunate.
Eh?
I'm going in for a dip.
Alright.
Lady Kayo?
And Fujii, Kageyu...
Let's go.
Lady Ito's home.
I came back late
It's wonderful that
you're back.
What?
Quick. Change up.
Excuse me.
Glad that you're here.
Another bowl!
Welcome back.
You're Lady Ito.
Safe return.
Yes! It's been awhile.
I've only reached Katagiri this
morning from the Edo.
It's been 5 years.
You have turned into a
great beauty.
According to our parents.
We will be married this
coming spring.
I had this specially made.
A gift for when
you get married.
There will a time
when this is of use.
Thank you, father.
An order was passed down from
the government a few days ago.
A request for monetary assistance
for the Tonegawa flood project.
This is extremely important
for the clan.
Cornered by the opposition.
I'm forced.
As you have already known.
With the compensatory,
Therefore.
Understand that I am unable to
refuse without damaging my esteem.
As we are unable to come
forth with more money.
Lord Abemoto must not be
implicated in this oversight.
We need the help of
Lord Anzai, Shimano.
With his aid. We can get
out of this impasse.
We need you to deliver
this proposal to him.
Forward.
For such an important task. I had
my doubts about your abilities.
But you were highly recommended
by Lord Fujii, Kageyu.
Deliver Lord Abemoto's letter.
Have them accept the proposal.
Put an end to this.
When you're in Edo.
Put your heart into this.
Yes.
Lord Fujii?
When you are in the palace.
Say the fault is yours alone and
shame is upon you.
Yes.
Keep your wits about
you in Edo.
Tread lightly but push it
through among praises.
Amidst manners and etiquette.
What will my title
of address be?
Second in rank.
Forward.
Another bowl please?
Lady Ito.
Your husband to be has
really good appetite.
There's still time before the wedding.
He's been eating like this
for three consecutive days.
Everyone feels happy that
his appetite is good.
Ogata, Shiro and myself drink
together often in Edo.
- Right!?
- Yes.
He has often taken care
of me while I was in Edo.
The duty is now yours.
Right. Thank you so much.
Don't mention it.
It's late.
Hey! It's still early.
You don't need to
return to Edo for duty.
Your home do not possess
wonderful wine as these.
You're right...
- More wine if you please.
- Yes.
Saisuke?
You married a good wife.
What are you talking about?
We're not married yet.
You're cute.
Lady Ito's home.
In regards to Anzai, Lord Shimano.
With great admiration and pride,
respectively I plead.
This being oversight on myself.
Naito Magoshiro would like to propose.
With all due respect, please
entertain my recourse.
Please accept.
I beg for your understanding.
Your name's Naito. Is it not?
Are you privy...
Of the burden of my
acceptance?
In regards to Anzai, Lord Shimano.
With great admiration and pride,
I am not saying this!
You march into my home
and serve this to me.
Have you pondered
upon your action?
This is the 1st time I have
received such a proposal.
Though for Edo this may not be.
Of course, I can accept the proposal.
But you have done a great disservice
bringing shame upon yourself.
No. The messenger has brought
blood upon himself.
Ito?
Yes?
Naito Magoshiro committed
suicide in Edo.
Forgive me if I am mistaken.
Are you the daughter of
clan elder Terai?
May I enter?
Yes.
Imagine my surprise.
When I learned Lady Ito
wish to see me.
And to meet in your room.
Would you please sit down.
Pain...!
Please do not misunderstand
the implication.
I just wanted to talk
to you, Saisuke.
Talk?
What about?
I'm all ears.
Eguchi. No.
Naito Magoshiro.
What?
About his suicide?
I want to learn the
truth behind.
Magoshiro's suicide.
From what I heard.
Magoshiro was rude by gaining
an audience with Lord Shimano.
So he chose to end his
life as atonement.
- Is this the truth?
- Huh?
Was he framed?
Framed!?
Naito Magoshiro set up?
What brings you
to this conclusion?
Magoshiro's wife. Lady Kayo
Have an unadmitted relationship
with another man.
Who is that man?
Fujii...
Kageyu?
I would ask you to.
Help me investigate this.
Is there something
to eat?
What?
Can't work if
I'm hungry.
- Food's ready.
- Yes!
Sorry to keep you waiting.
Naito could've decline, right?
No. He can never refuse.
Yes! Right away!
Why the urgency back
to Yokoyama?
Not surprising. Official business.
I see...
Don't worry.
I can still slip out
quietly at night .
- Really?
- Sorry to keep you waiting!
That was quick.
Sorry. Enjoy!
It seems that Magoshiro
have overstepped protocol.
Protocol?
This was already passed down.
Whomever stands in the way of
protocol is bound for death.
The order was sanctioned
by the clan.
Lord Abemoto did indeed
approved the proposal..
However.
It's a wonder why Magoshiro
was given the task.
Are they not going to
pursue this matter?
Wouldn't this reflect
badly on the clan?
Well, Lord Nagasaka are
said to be bedridden at home.
With heart problems.
The clan does seems
to be awfully quiet.
Seems that Magoshiro's atonement
is ignored. Even by the clan.
The Lord Abemoto shouldn't
have left this lying down.
However. It still bothers me
on why he chose this path.
Magoshiro was a
man of honor.
I'll accept accountability for the
offense that Magoshiro have done.
Please mete your punishment.
No.
Magoshiro broke protocol and
made a grave judgment.
And it's the Lord's decision
to allow Magoshiro to proceed.
Yes. But...
You were just doing your duty.
Anyway. Lord Shimano was the one
that demanded his atonement.
This will not reflect badly
on Lord Fujii at all.
Right.
You're too distressed.
Don't need to be.
However, if the matter
is not settled.
Magoshiro's case may
spiral out of control.
This will implicate the
Naito Clan as well.
I'm afraid they might
pursue this matter.
Understood.
Leave the Naito family to me.
I will rein them in.
Leave it to me.
Yes.
I heard they found Magoshiro's
suicide note.
He took full responsibilities
for his own actions.
Absolving the Clan and the Lords
of all blame and culpability.
He has conveniently
taken full blame.
Otherwise, chaos will ensue.
That's the end of it.
However, something
still puzzles me.
What is that?
Even If it's Magoshiro's 1st
time on this task.
Shouldn't he be briefed
thoroughly on protocol?
How can this
be overlooked?
It seems that someone
deliberately misled Magoshiro.
Fear not. I'll find out.
Enjoy your meal.
Magoshiro's wife is having an affair
with Lord Fujii, Kageyu ?
Hagai Dojo knows all about this.
Hey. What are you
going to do?
This is not something
that I can get into.
I can no longer
get involved.
This is getting too
complicated.
I can't help you anymore.
Thanks for all your help.
I'll investigate on my own.
It should be a boy.
Look! My face haven't
changed a lot.
Really?
If it's a boy.
Lady Ito can teach
him sword fighting.
I can't teach him to fight
with a bamboo sword.
There'll be lots of people
to do that.
Well.
Doesn't matter whether
it's a boy or girl.
It doesn't matter to me.
So long as the
baby's healthy.
May I enquire about
something?
Please, Please. Just let
me have a look.
Just once.
So Magoshiro knows about the
affair that Lady Kayo was having.
That seems to be the case.
Why...
Why then did Magoshiro
kept his silence?
If he didn't want
a divorce.
Why didn't he confront
Lord Fujii, Kageyu?
You don't understand.
The code of Bushido
disallows it.
Instead of spending life as
a low ranked Samurai.
He chose to keep his silence
to rise up the ranks.
As a man always have a
certain consciousness.
We are bound by duty
as well as society.
I know this because I
have 4 brothers before me.
Oh!
I'm not the same
as Magoshiro.
Really!
I know.
Magoshiro is after
all but a mere human.
It's only a matter of time,
before he gets into trouble.
Lord Fujii and Lady Kayo's affair.
Have been rumored
for some time now.
As you yourself know.
The affair's not well kept.
Not only does Magoshiro
knows.
But the Naito clan as well.
It's only a matter of time Magshiro
and Lord Fujii would feud.
As head of the Naito clan. He is
both bound and responsible.
That's the life of a warrior.
The Code of Bushido.
Code of Bushido.
Lord Fujii, Kageyu have so
far been successful in cloak.
If his affair becomes public.
Not only will his
position be threatened.
So will his life.
Which is why and therefore
Fujii's had risen to the
chief justice in power.
He knows protocol
better then anyone.
So it was a setup.
With the influence from
the Hagai Dojo.
Fujii used him as a pawn.
Through these few years. Lord Fujii
have been gaining in power.
Because he used bribery
to get his way.
Bribe?
Fujii secured his endorsement
for the next five years.
Through his monopoly
on the trade in Edo.
He is impregnable.
Don't you think he
should be responsible?
Fujii is also part of
the ruling caste.
Lord Fujii and his people
aren't to be trifled with.
Messing with them means
certain death.
No one dares.
Incorrigible.
This is how the
world works.
I want to see Fujii, Kageyu
brought to justice.
How do you think
we do that?
I'll help.
No. I'll do it alone.
Lord Fujii is also be regarded
as a great swordsman.
Though can't say the
same of his integrity.
May I ask?
What is the relationship between
Magoshiro and yourself?
None
Mere acquaintances.
Just mere... acquaintances?
I guessed it as much!
May I enter?
Signed Lady Ito.
Fujii, Kageyu?
I have been waiting.
Who are you?
I'm the daughter of
clan elder Terai.
Why would the daughter of
the clan elder accuse me.
Of infidelity.
What kind of game
are you playing?
No.
Did you not set a trap for Naito
and proceed to have him killed.
Isn't that right? Fujii?
What do you
intend to do?
Annihilate me!?
A mere woman
such as yourself?
My father have tutored
swordsmanship in schools.
So I have heard.
However.
We are not bamboo practicing.
Alone?
Yes.
I see.
Why is the daughter
of the clan elder.
Taking vengeance for a low
ranked samurai?
Eguchi Magoshiro saw my abilities
beyond that of a women.
What's the relationship
between you and Magoshiro?
Just mere acquaintances.
Enough!
Another half hour,
someone would be walking by here.
Stay off the beaten path.
Stay on the river.
Go through the jungle
and you're home.
Leave the rest to me.
Go on. Quickly.
Fujii was executed by
someone righteous.
Yes.
After years of living precariously.
Wonder who was the gallant?
I heard a letter of accusations
was left in his arms.
An immerse display of
strength and power.
However, to defeat 3 men.
And then close proximity
with a knife.
Superior swordsmanship.
Indeed.
Lady Ito?
Saisuke?
How's the arm?
Better.
It's been 10 days since
we've seen you.
Is everything alright?
Hmm?
I was here.
Huh?
Looking at the cherry
blossom in full bloom.
I'll be a bad host if I'm not there.
Let's go!
Long after this incident.
Saisuke inherited my father's name.
And your grandmother had seven
children including myself.
Yes, those are your
parent's friends.
Saisuke wouldn't help out
at home like other men.
But my father's clan rose
in the community.
Though he was known
as an simpleton.
It's the view of many that
simpletons gets to grow old.
What talent could there be.
Cherry blossoms are still
vivid in my mind.
But cherry blossom's
beauty are fleeting.
The sad thing is.
Because after my grandmother
passed on.
Your grandfather has never been
to another cherry blossom.