Mononoke Movie: Paper Umbrella (2024) Movie Script
I'm finally here.
The oku
I'll take your offerings for the Birth
Celebratory Ceremony. Form a line.
The oku is off-limits to men. Women
cannot enter without a pass either.
Is this the oku? Oh
my! This is so exciting!
Thank you!
Thank goodness! They've kept their shape.
Know what they are?
I don't, but I'm sure they
are something delicious.
They're rice balls with magnolia leaf miso.
They smell good.
Would you like one?
What?
My grandmother gave me plenty
to bring for everyone at the oku.
I'm here to work at the
oku. My name is Kame.
I shall also begin work at
the oku today. I'm Asa.
Simply irresistible
The smell of burnt miso
and magnolia leaves
Uh you can try one too if you'd like.
I appreciate that.
Hey!
You two over there. Lady
Asa and Lady Kame, right?
Wow, you're both as
beautiful as the rumors say.
I look forward to working with you.
Nice to meet you!
The long journey must have been
tough. I'm Sakashita, a palace guard.
As a guard of the oku, I
watch over this Nanatsu Gate.
Alright then, let me take your luggage.
Thank you.
However, this is all I have,
so I can carry it myself.
Is that so! Lady Kame, you on the
other hand appear to have a lot of luggage.
Master Sakashita, please try
one of my grandmother's rice balls.
Oh, what a fragrant smell!
Shall I prepare a special
love potion for you?
Whoa! Who the heck are you?
Just a humble Medicine Seller.
I sell various goods, including love potions from
England that can enchant any woman in an instant.
I don't need such a thing!
There's something suspicious about
you. What's with your outfit, anyway?
Lady Asa, Lady Kame. You need
to stay away from guys like this.
Nothing good will come of it.
Alright, tell me the
rest when we next meet.
You're a funny guy! See you!
Hiramoto, this is the
oku. Behave yourself.
Hang on a second, Saburomaru. I sense the presence
of beautiful women. Don't those two look great?
Enough already! If you keep messing
around, I'll throw away your pass!
Don't be so uptight. Let's enjoy ourselves.
Show me your passes, just to be safe.
What? Where is it
Senior maids Madam Awashima and Madam
Mugitani are waiting for you beyond the gate.
First impressions are
everything. Good luck.
I shall go introduce myself right away.
Master Sakashita, don't
forget to eat your rice ball!
Thanks!
Hey, you!
Do you require that love potion?
Someone like you has
no place here at the oku.
This is a place reserved exclusively
for the women gathered for His Majesty.
This Nanatsu Gate is as far as you can go. If you attempt to pass
through here without permission, you will be beheaded immediately.
See you later, Medicine Seller!
And I don't need any love potions!
Huh?
One, two
THE PHANTOM IN THE RAIN
How do you do?
How do you do?
Madam Awashima, the head housemaid.
I'm Mugitani, the housemaid.
My name is Asa.
My name is Kame.
I look forward to working with you.
Please, drink. This is the water of The
Water Goddess that watches over us.
All women who live at the oku
drink this water every morning.
All manner of misfortunes
Thus, under the protection of The Water Goddess,
we are always prepared to produce a successor.
Sins and impurities
Next, offer your most cherished belongings
that you've brought from home to this well.
Throw away the person you were until now.
The person I was until now
Throw away?
We must, since we're to
become property of His Majesty.
It'll be okay.
We must offer both our
hearts and our bodies.
Exactly.
They're only things.
Y-You're right!
Okay then
These are rice balls that
my grandmother gave me.
I thought you could all share them but
Now then, I'd say this
has deepened your resolve.
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
You won't be able to perform your duties
if you cling onto so many cherished items.
Excuse me! But must we throw away our cherished
things in order to perform our duties?
My, you certainly do
speak your mind, don't you?
I've practiced writing since an early age.
My father has instructed me to continue my studies, since I was granted
the opportunity to enter the oku in recognition of my accomplishments.
However, I have nothing I cherish
so much that I cannot throw it away.
You have nothing that you cherish?
This was from my grandmother! She gave me this
comb. She said to keep it as a good-luck charm.
Kame!
Stop! You needn't do this.
I must.
I have to do well at the oku.
A Form has emerged.
You'll get wet.
M-Madam Utayama!
I'm sorry you had to witness this!
You there! What are you
doing! Lower your head.
This is Madam Utayama, administrator
of the oku, and Lady Botan, a concubine!
Madam Awashima, this newcomer
is certainly well-mannered, isn't she?
I apologize! It seems she lacks the
proper mindset to perform her duties.
I am prepared to dedicate
my life to my duties.
The oku is not a place
for you to fulfill your desires.
What could you possibly mean?
How dare you talk back to Madam Utayama!
Rather than insisting on your own way, dedicate yourself
to the oku. Both you and I are here for that purpose.
As you fulfill your role, you
will gain a higher perspective.
A higher perspective
In time, you will realize that this
burden in your heart was insignificant.
I shall also remember this well!
Madam Utayama, let's go.
We mustn't keep the gentlemen waiting.
Madam Mugitani, try not to be too zealous.
Yes, Lady Botan!
Mr. Sakashita
What?
What is all this commotion about?
You came without even knowing
about the Birth Celebratory Ceremony?
I smelled an opportunity to make a profit.
Unbelievable Lady Yukiko, the consort,
has given birth to His Majesty's child.
This precious festival also serves
as a celebration of that event.
Isn't the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony held before the birth?
Hey! That's because
a lot happened, you see.
Madam Utayama will be arriving shortly!
Excuse me! Please stop!
That's Madam Utayama's
It's fine. I apologize
for keeping you waiting.
My name is Saburomaru
Tokita. This is Hiramoto Saga.
We only just arrived too.
We would like to know why the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony was postponed two months ago.
Please, leave everything to me.
We were called here because
we can't leave it to you.
It is as the report states.
Simple lack of preparation
doesn't explain this.
I reported this matter to Councilor Otomo and have
been instructed to keep things within the oku.
Councilor Otomo?
I come from the Otomo family, and I'm
serving here at the oku. My name is Botan.
It is said that Lady Yukiko had a very difficult
childbirth and is completely exhausted.
There are also those suggesting that this is because the Birth Celebratory Ceremony could
not be held two months ago. In other words, Madam Utayama, you are the one responsible.
I understand this. This is why, although unusual, we
have decided to hold the parade after the childbirth.
Our duty is to oversee the oku.
The oku belongs to His
Majesty. Know your place.
I apologize.
But we have been sent here from the shogunate to supervise and
ensure that the Birth Celebratory Ceremony proceeds smoothly.
You must have heard this
from Councilor Otomo as well.
Of course. However, I would like you to refrain from your vulgar
prying and from your excessive interactions with the maids of the oku.
This is the oku, where men
are usually forbidden to enter.
You may be doing your duty, but anyone who breaks
the rules shall be punished, no matter who they are.
Very well. Please make arrangements so that
we can fulfill our duties starting tomorrow.
Understood.
Suma is thirsty.
You are not.
Kiyo is also thirsty.
You are not.
Fuki is not thirsty.
Matron.
Your Majesty!
I am thirsty.
Lady Fuki, again.
His Majesty is rather fervent, isn't he?
The oku employs roughly 2,000 maids.
You are to prepare breakfast
for everyone before sunrise.
What!
S-Sorry!
First, you'll prepare meals for 50 people on the fourth side.
Once you're used to that, we'll increase it to 100 people.
100 people?
Be sure to finish your own breakfast first.
Understood.
Your writing is so neat, Asa!
Before "before sunrise"? I
wonder what time that is
I used to make breakfast for my neighbors
every day. I'm sure it'll be fine.
I've never even made breakfast before.
It appears Lord Saburomaru is the younger brother of Lady
Fuki, a concubine, and the third son of the Tokita family.
That doesn't change anything.
We shall quietly proceed with preparations for
the Birth Celebratory Ceremony, that's all.
The Tokita family is currently gaining momentum. I'd like to
avoid fighting them and giving them any unnecessary leverage.
That goes for me, a member of the Omoto family, and you, Madam
Utayama, someone under the protection of the Otomo family.
Perhaps we should let them feel
as though they've done some work.
The two of you will have the status of maidservant,
and you will sleep in a second floor room.
You are to serve Madam Awashima, the head
housemaid. Strive diligently in your duties.
2,000 maids
And yet only eight people get to
serve His Majesty as a concubine.
Yes, Ma'am. I shall do my best.
Take the initiative in tasks such as
cleaning and managing the futons.
The longest journey
begins with a single step.
Yes, Ma'am!
Right
It's the concubines. Be
sure to make way for them.
We are like decorative flowers
used to enhance Lady Fuki.
They're the concubines!
It appears His Majesty has interest
for nobody but Lady Fuki anymore.
Didn't you hear me!
S-Sorry!
I hope His Majesty is also inclined to pick
the decorative flowers once in a while too.
His Majesty first spoke to
me when I was still a bud.
I'm sure your time will come too.
L-Lady Fuki! How do you do?
H-How beautiful you are.
You must be new.
Yes My Lady! My name is Kame.
How do you do?
Are you setting up shop or
something? Come on, we're closing!
I'm not setting up shop, but I
can sell you all kinds of goods.
Aren't you drinking?
No. I've decided not to drink
until we finish our duties here.
A boring man.
That's what you are.
This task may be more
difficult than I thought.
All we have to do is look at pretty girls.
Quite the perk.
The oku is more than just a place
for producing His Majesty's successor.
I get that.
The shogunate and the oku are two sides of the same coin. Power
relations outside the oku are maintained by the groundwork laid here.
Never mind politics. If no successor is produced,
one might wonder what the purpose of the oku is.
Oh, I don't mean to
speak ill of your elder sister.
Our duty is to oversee the Birth Celebratory Ceremony,
but the aim of those outside the oku is Madam Utayama.
That old woman
I don't like her.
I now understand what they mean about their
intentions not getting through to the oku.
I suppose that's why they wish to
reduce Madam Utayama's influence.
I can't stand that look on her face,
as if she thinks she runs the world.
You sure have it tough as the
third son of the Tokita family.
You got this job thanks to Lady Fuki,
so you'll need to produce good results.
Why was the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony postponed two months ago?
There must be a reason.
Perhaps Madam Utayama has
held power in the oku for too long.
Hey, don't you think that water stunk?
Yeah It smelled rancid.
How do Madam Awashima and
the others drink it so nonchalantly?
Fire check! Fire check!
Maybe because they're
doing it for His Majesty
Oh, I wish I could become a
concubine like Lady Fuki already.
She was very pretty.
When we passed by Lady Fuki
today, Madam Mugitani's eyes lit up too.
It's Lady Fuki!
How pretty
All concubines are pretty.
Yours did too, right Asa?
As for me, I'd rather learn a skill,
than be a glamorous concubine.
Right now, my goal is to take
on the role of official scribe.
The intensity of His Majesty's
affection towards Lady Fuki as of late
ady Yukiko's child was
also a princess, you see.
Lady Fuki must be incredibly skillful.
At this rate, His Majesty's
successor will be
Asa, you seem like you'd
be good at anything you do.
I'm not sure I can
make it here at the oku.
You'll be fine. Let's work hard together.
Lady Yukiko hasn't been
picked for some time.
Lady Fuki's influence continues to grow.
As for Lady Botan Otomo
She doesn't seem
interested in the night service.
Asa!
I'm really glad I met you, Asa.
Me too.
We have an early start
tomorrow. Let's get some sleep.
Okay. Goodnight.
Goodnight.
DAY TWO
All manner of misfortunes
Sins and impurities
Purify
Cleanse
As heaven sees fit
The Water Goddess is not fond of fire.
Protect us
Grant us fortune
Madam Utayama.
How do you do?
How do you do?
The recently postponed Birth Celebratory
Ceremony is now three days away.
Many guests will arrive on the day.
There are only a few days left, but I want
everyone to stay focused and prepare diligently.
Women without a pass can't enter either!
I'll take your offerings for the Birth
Celebratory Ceremony! Form a line!
No men are to enter the oku!
Women without a pass can't enter either!
Is it still far off?
I shall now announce personnel changes to
coincide with the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
The coordination of this Birth Celebratory
Ceremony shall be entrusted to Awashima.
Awashima will switch from
head housemaid to guest greeter.
From decorations to arrangements for food and
drink, everything needs to be handled efficiently.
Everyone is to fall under
Awashima's command.
There will be over 100 participants
at this Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
From seating arrangements to guidance
upon leaving, there must be no oversights.
Mugitani shall be promoted from housemaid
to head housemaid to take on this duty.
In addition, Concubine Otomo, who is familiar with the power relations among
important shogunate officials and various lords, will act as a mentor for Mugitani.
Mugitani, be sure to learn
proper etiquette from Otomo.
Yes, Ma'am!
And although she just arrived yesterday,
I have something to ask of Asa too.
Huh?
She will serve as a guide for Saburomaru Tokita
and Hiramoto Saga, inspectors from the shogunate.
Although unusual, I will assign
Asa the rank of housemaid.
May I have a word from the two of you?
Well done, Asa!
My name is Saburomaru Tokita.
Lady Asa, I apologize
for any inconvenience.
Tokita? Could he be related to Lady Fuki?
I am Hiramoto Saga. Madam Mugitani, I'll be
relying on your personal guidance later on!
What's with his laid-back attitude?
They have come all the way to the oku, which is usually off-limits to men. The purpose of
their visit is to make sure preparations for the Birth Celebratory Ceremony do not fall short.
Asa, make sure to attend to them properly, so that they
understand there isn't anything requiring supervision.
This is the oku! Everyone,
devote yourselves to this oku!
Go to your positions immediately.
Yes, Ma'am.
I wonder if Lady Asa and
Lady Kame are doing well?
Mr. Sakashita, how would
you say those two are doing?
Lady Asa should be fine, but
I'm worried about Lady Kame.
Girls that are too kind
often face difficulties.
Yet the girls who do succeed sometimes change so much, that they
seem like completely different people when you next see them.
Asa!
I've been studying the ways of the oku
so hard. I can help you guide those two.
Kame
I'll perform my own duties afterward.
Umm
Okay?
It's a promise.
There was another girl
recently that completely changed.
Where is she now?
I heard she left the oku and
went back to her hometown.
You heard What was the name of this maid?
Why! Why must I tell someone like you?
The night chamber lies up ahead.
To think that Lady Fuki passed through here
yesterday on her way to perform night service
Oh my. How exciting!
This has been very insightful.
You have my gratitude.
There are so many interesting things here.
Lady Asa, how long has it been
since you first came to the oku?
Amazing, Kame. I'm surprised
at how much you know.
The rice cake for the Birth Celebratory Ceremony will be pulled around the oku and finally brought
here, where the official scribe will finish proceedings by inscribing the ceremonial character.
Saburomaru, which one is your type?
We're working now, cut it out.
Don't get so embarrassed.
Shh!
The purification salt
should have arrived by now.
The weather has caused a delay. I'm thinking of securing
a substitute from a nearby wholesaler, just to be safe.
Have Asa do it.
Lady Asa?
Kame!
Awashima, how many years has it
been since you came to the oku?
Working has made me hungry!
It has been six years.
Right, me too.
I have made it a practice to give those with
the will and ability a slightly heavier burden.
That includes you too.
But to take on the role of housemaid on
one's first day Even in Kitagawa's time
Madam Awashima, take a look.
You wouldn't think she's
new to this, would you?
Lady Asa wrote this.
We all love ourselves.
We want to be recognized,
loved, and needed.
These are feelings that one
cannot satisfy on their own.
The neighbors expected to fulfill these needs are also the ones
we compare ourselves to and compete with for limited positions.
I will strive to improve.
I just want to talk with you
This feels like the longest
day of my life Hm?
So this is what private rooms
look like! I hope I get one soon!
It's amazing in here, Asa.
I doubt anyone has ever been appointed to an
official position on their first day before.
Madam Utayama chose me
for this role. I have to work hard.
Okay, I'll leave you to it.
What? You're leaving already?
I just wanted a quick
look at the private rooms.
I'm just a mere maid. I need
to prepare the futons and stuff.
I see
See you tomorrow.
Yeah! See you, tomorrow
The umbrella
My apologies. I left that here.
I forgot it when I changed rooms.
Were you using this room before?
That's right.
My name is Kitagawa.
Lady Kitagawa, my name is Asa.
Oh. Come now. There's
no need to be so formal.
Judging from your kimono,
you must be the official scribe.
Such hierarchies only
exist within the oku.
I visited the oku with
my father as a child.
I was moved by the Birth Celebratory Ceremony, and
I've dreamed of working at the oku ever since.
I remember being fascinated by the official scribe, who wielded
her brush so powerfully behind the beautiful dancing princesses.
That was supposed to be my role in the recent
Birth Celebratory Ceremony that was postponed.
I heard it was canceled for some reason?
That's right.
This is a fantastic brush.
Why don't you apply for
the role of official scribe?
I couldn't possibly
I'm still not ready at all.
I'd like to talk with you again. Forget about
hierarchies when just the two of us meet.
Thank you very much.
Can you look after that doll for me?
Huh?
I'll come to see her again too.
Take care. Rest well.
I will.
Goodnight! Lady Kitaga wa
DAY THREE
All manner of misfortunes
Come on, wake up.
Sins and impurities
Sorry
I rely on you for everything
Purify
Guess it can't be helped.
Cleanse
As heaven sees fit
Let's go!
Okay!
Father!
Good girls.
What is all this? I thought I
told you to finish this yesterday.
Did you forget?
No, it's not that
Uh I-I'm sorry! I'm
sorry! I'll do it quickly now!
Starting now? They'll never dry!
That's why you had to finish yesterday!
You can't just decide to do it today.
Besides, you have other
work for today, don't you?
Don't you feel embarrassed
to just wing it like this?
Is something the matter?
L-Lady Asa! Her duties!
She still hasn't finished!
My apologies.
I should have checked.
That won't do. What about the purification salt
I asked for yesterday? Have you sorted that out?
Yes Ma'am.
I sent someone right after receiving your instructions.
It arrived in this morning's early delivery.
Lady Asa is quite the worker!
I see
And then there's you
Madam Awashima! Lady Kame didn't even wake up to prepare
breakfast this morning. What do you make of that?
It's not her fault.
I didn't ask for her help. It's my fault.
This was a task you assigned to be done by two
people, yet I thought I could handle it alone.
It was a mistake on my part.
So in other words, all you're
capable of is flirting with men!
How can you say that
Madam Mugitani!
Yesterday, you were led astray by a man and
abandoned your duties, and today you're oversleeping!
It's hard to tell whether
you're lazy or just frivolous.
If you saw
Oh dear, should I have
been more considerate?
That's now what I meant
Then what did you mean!
That's enough!
Lady Kame, gather your things
and go to Madam Mugitani's room.
You are to learn from scratch
exactly what your duties entail.
Madam Mugitani, please behave in
a manner befitting of an oku maid.
My misconduct caused all this, therefore
Yes, Ma'am.
My, my. Lady Asa, you're willing to take on the responsibility
of instructing Lady Kame, even after your promotion to housemaid?
Yes, Ma'am. If that is my
duty, I humbly accept it.
What
I
I-I'll be careful from
now on! I'll work hard!
No!
No! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!
I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!
I'll be the one to take
responsibility for this girl!
Kame...
Such beautiful hands
It seems that two months ago, one
of the maids fell ill and left the oku.
And nobody has been clearly informed of the reason for
the postponement of the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
Should we get the
shogunate to look into this?
This is a splendid device!
This is a pair of scales.
A pair of scales? Then how,
and what does it weigh?
The distance to
The distance between?
Things that cannot be seen by people.
You don't really intend
to work hard here, do you?
It's obvious.
I'm trying my best
But I can't wake up in the morning.
I try to remember what I'm
told, but always end up forgetting.
I don't do as well as the others,
and I always get left behind.
What did you even come to the oku for?
Why are you here?
I've seen your type before.
Just because you look a little cute, you think it's okay to slack off at
your duties! You're nothing but a woman aiming to shack up with His Majesty!
That's not true
It's here!
No! Stop! Let go!
If you really plan to work hard,
then you won't be needing all this!
No
No!
I told you, step over this
line and you'll lose your head!
The Mononoke It's here!
Stop!
What? This is an emergency!
Further in?
Hey! You can't come in...
What are these
What happened?
The kaleidoscope
Master Sakashita!
Where's the intruder?
Madam Awashima!
Above, huh?
D-Don't go!
Wait...
Madam Awashima!
Oh. Seems she heard a terrible
scream that sounded like Madam Mugitani.
Has it gone?
Wait...
What's all the commotion?
Kame!
She's alive.
Was Lady Kame the only one here?
I heard Madam Mugitani was also here.
It's helpful that you're so calm.
Is Kame?
She'll wake up soo
It seems, I didn't make it on time.
Huh?
That rumbling sound
What is it?
Mugitani
This is not the work of any human.
Who the devil are you!
Not the work of a human
I'm just a Medicine Seller.
You're guilty of intruding into
the oku and causing disorder!
This time, you're dealing with something
that cannot be slain by that sword.
This is the work of a Mononoke.
Mono
noke?
The cause of all these apparitions
Apparitions?
There are no such things at the oku!
Allow me to slay this Mononoke!
The wet floor draws the
shape of a circle as it dries
The name of this Ayakashi
that became a Mononoke is Karakasa.
Hm?
Madam Mugitani
What is that noise?
I have acquired its Form.
Form, you say?
These apparitions cannot be
quelled if I do not slay the Mononoke.
The kaleidoscope
However, a Mononoke cannot
be slain using human weapons.
Which is the reason for this sword. Kon,
one of the eight swords of Yin and Yang.
A masterpiece from the realm of Shuga,
entrusted to us, its sixty-four guardians.
It's also known as
The Sacred Sword!
Why didn't you slay it with
that sword straight away?
Certain conditions must be
met in order to draw this sword.
Conditions?
Form, Truth, Reason.
Without these three elements,
I cannot draw the sword.
Truth is the way things appear.
Reason is the true nature of the
passions that smolder here at the oku.
Are you saying that you can kill this Mononoke thing
if you present the sword with these three elements?
That's correct.
In order to present these three elements
Sakashita, provide this man with a pass.
Yes, Ma'am!
Madam Utayama?
I want you to destroy
this so-called Karakasa.
You are not to speak a word
of tonight's incident to anybody.
And until the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony is over, Mugitani is not dead.
Do you understand, Awashima?
I understand.
Ladies and gentlemen, I now request that you
share with me your own Truths and Reasons.
DAY FOUR
All manner of misfortunes
Sins and impurities
Purify...
Is the water delicious, Heavenly... No,
I should call you The Water Goddess.
Grant us fortune
Could you please wait
before dismissing Lady Kame?
There is no place for the weak, or
those that cannot devote themselves.
This usually becomes
clear in the first three days.
I will let you deal with Kame.
Who's that guy?
A peddler from the Nanatsu Gate.
Everyone, please listen.
Mugitani has suddenly had to return home.
What
Seriously?
She left early this morning, so
she wasn't able to say goodbye.
Look.
She who carries the heavy burden
will gain strength to climb the next step.
I would like to appoint Asa as head housemaid
and have her take over from Mugitani.
Head housemaid?
Has this ever happened before?
Lady Asa
You are capable, aren't you?
Please leave it to me.
That maid never actually made it home.
What was that?
That maid's name
Why is there a peddler in the oku?
You ought to be beheaded!
Why don't you ask Madam Utayama?
Madam Utayama is a
powerful political figure.
I'd like to emulate that success.
Hm? A sword?
I'd like to ask you about a certain maid.
Does the water taste good?
Lady Kitagawa
Sometimes one must discard
something in order to move forward.
Lady Asa, I wonder what you will discard.
Everything I had, I yearned to discard.
But some things must not be discarded.
Such a thing may not be
Tangible.
Once discarded, you will dry up.
I have something I wish
to keep from drying out.
That is why I must throw it away.
Lady Asa
I don't want to
I don't want to see Madam Mugitani.
It's fine. You can work with me today.
Really?
Yes.
Could you take on the role of
attending to the guests at the parade?
Madam Utayama, I am not your subordinate.
As a member of the Otomo family, I am simply here to balance
the dynamics between the oku and those on the outside.
A stern response.
We maids must not
approach the night chamber.
Those are the rules of the oku.
A magician?
What's happening?
Karakasa It's close.
Karakasa?
I've got you now.
I wonder if your aim is to jeopardize my
position as your superior by creating problems.
Neat writing
You've got it wrong!
After meeting Asa here at the
oku, I knew I was in trouble.
I could never do things the way she does.
At this rate, I'll be made to leave.
That's why If I could just
catch His Majesty's eye
Are you doing this because we
made you throw away your comb?
What?
There is no Mononoke, is there!
Mononoke?
You and Lady Asa hid Mugitani, didn't you!
I don't know what you're talking about.
Lady Asa put you up
to everything, didn't she!
You do whatever you want,
and shirk any job you don't like!
There's nothing more cowardly!
Stop!
Is this a dream?
Just follow him!
Those cunning eyes!
Such a little brat! Why!
Madam Utayama!
I never wanted to throw
it away! Forgive me!
It won't open!
It won't open!
I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!
I'm sorry!
Huh?
take responsibility for this girl.
The Medicine Seller and those two
inspectors are causing a commotion.
What?
Saying there's a Mononoke!
What is that!
Stay away!
Take her!
Wait...
It's too late for this one.
So it turns humans into rainwater?
Lady Kame is by the earthen floor.
Kame!
Two months ago, a maid
went missing from the oku.
That maid was supposed to
have been sent back home.
But she disappeared like smoke,
and nobody knows where she is.
Did Madam Mugitani really
return home this morning?
In addition, the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony was postponed two months ago.
Is this truly a coincidence!
No use, huh?
It's close.
What is that sound?
You needn't pry in this matter.
I thought I told you that it has
been reported to Councilor Otomo.
Tell me. The maid that went
missing What is her name?
Lady Kitagawa's
The former official scribe of the oku
Lady Kitagawa!
I have acquired its Truth.
Lady Kitagawa is its Truth?
The Mononoke It's coming!
What is that!
That right there, is the
Mononoke, Karakasa!
Forgive me!
Karakasa still hasn't
attained its final form.
Once it takes form in this
world, it will become unstoppable.
Awashima!
What is happening at the oku!
The Birth Celebratory Ceremony
will go ahead as planned!
This is all too scary!
Asa, don't let go of my
hand until the morning!
Okay.
It's a promise! If you let go
I won't speak to you again.
I promise I won't let go.
No matter what!
I met with Lady Kitagawa.
You met her? But Lady Kitagawa is
I mustn't dry out I realized that.
Huh?
Thanks to Lady Kitagawa, I realized what
was important, what I mustn't throw away.
That's good!
Yeah.
So what was it? The thing
that's important to you.
What?
I can't say.
Tell me! Tell me! Tell me! Tell me!
Tell me! Tell me! Tell me! Tell me!
There's something I want to tell you, Kame.
Hm? What is it?
Something important.
BIRTH CELEBRATORY CEREMONY
THE DAY ARRIVES
Please don't get in our way.
What do you mean?
Madam Awashima passed away
after the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
But why
A Birth Celebratory Ceremony is just a duty, but it's a duty
for which many people have poured their hearts and souls.
Can a duty be that important?
Isn't your duty to find something
to bring down Madam Utayama?
Lady Asa
I'll send a messenger later.
Your duty shall wait until tomorrow.
I will not allow any disturbances at the oku
until the Birth Celebratory Ceremony is over.
Grant us fortune
So you spoke with Lady Kitagawa?
I thought the Medicine Seller
might be able to protect you, Asa.
I wonder if we can draw
near to the Mononoke's Reason.
I do not know what
happened to Lady Kitagawa.
But
But?
I feel like I've come to understand
Lady Kitagawa's feelings a little more.
Feelings, you say?
I'm sorry I can't tell you anything useful.
No, it helps a little.
But the real mystery is Madam Utayama. Why does she insist on going
ahead with the Birth Celebratory Ceremony despite all these apparitions?
Good point.
This is the oku. There are times when one must
suppress one's own feelings for the sake of duty.
I discern whether or not a person can be entrusted
with important roles based on whether they can do this.
For Lady Kitagawa too?
That's right.
Which means the
Mononoke's next victim will be
Would the apparitions stop if you canceled
the ceremony like you did two months ago?
Is that what you think?
Madam Utayama
This is our duty.
You're right.
The Mononoke is terrifying!
What about the Birth Celebratory Ceremony?
People have died. Surely it can't be held.
The Birth Celebratory Ceremony
will go ahead as planned.
She looked like a mummified monk.
In place of the late Madam Awashima, I will humbly take
over as coordinator for the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
The apparition turned her into a mummy.
Madam Awashima must
have endured so much pain.
The day of the Birth Celebratory Ceremony is
upon us. Please give me your full cooperation.
For His Majesty, the consort, and their child, the
Birth Celebratory Ceremony proceed without a hitch.
She's got some gall to say that.
Is this really okay?
Okay everyone, let's begin
the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
Everybody to your positions.
Understood.
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
One, two Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
The anticipation often outlasts
the event itself, don't you find?
Time stops for nobody.
I'm sorry you can't participate.
It's fine. That's how it is for
those of us behind the scenes.
At least if I'm here, even
when the Mononoke...
I remember what you
told me when we first met.
That I would gain a higher
perspective as I went on.
You were right, Madam Utayama.
The suffering I had experienced
until then now seems insignificant.
The perspective of those
who stand above others.
I saw a version of myself
that wasn't fazed by anything.
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
But at the same time, there was
something that held my emotions in place.
That was
Lady Kame.
Kame? Have you decided
how to deal with her?
I informed Lady Okame in
writing to leave the oku.
I wanted to become a concubine
I wanted to wear a beautiful kimono,
and show His Majesty
You didn't let emotion sway
you. It was a good decision.
I also wanted to eat together with Kame,
and I wanted to spend more time
talking with her until late at night.
I owe it to Lady Kitagawa.
Kitagawa?
on anybody!
Madam Utayama!
Is the Mononoke here?
I threw it away
Medicine Seller!
If we don't slay it soon we're in trouble!
Give me the Reason If I don't
draw my sword, we're done for!
Madam Utayama!
What did you throw away?
What?
It's trying to get through to this side!
Why is Karakasa after you?
I do not know!
The ceiling!
Here I go!
Saburo maru?
All dried out
Lady Kitagawa?
Lady Kitagawa!
Kitagawa
I am
all dried out.
So that's Lady Kitagawa?
Karakasa is
manifesting in this world!
When I was first pressured to throw away something
important, I discarded it without hesitation.
I decided to become a different
person by casting it away.
I was favored by Madam Utayama
and steadily rose up at the oku.
There was another girl who
entered the oku with me.
She struggled to fit in and
couldn't do anything right.
I became increasingly irritated with her.
On the day I was entrusted with an important role in the
Birth Celebratory Ceremony, I told her to leave the oku.
I thought I would worry less
and be able to focus on my duties.
That's what I thought
But I was wrong.
I started to think about
what had changed within me.
I realized that I was all dried out.
Before I knew it, I had lost the will to perform my
duties. I lost my role and was unable to leave my room.
All dried out, I must have
thrown something away.
Something important I'd
thrown it away down there.
No!
Kame...
Asa!
Are you okay?
Kitagawa?
Lady Kitagawa told me.
That I mustn't dry out.
Does she hold a grudge?
I don't believe Lady Kitagawa
holds a grudge on anybody!
My duty
This is my duty!
It stinks.
The Reason has been revealed.
Form, Truth, Reason.
With these three elements in
place I shall release my sword!
Release!
Karakasa
Prepare to be cut down,
purified, and laid to rest.
Go back, Mononoke!
Flash Strike!
Forgive me.
Down we go!
Is that the Mononoke?
Oy!
Let's go together.
Your important thing is
I can't say!
Huh?
Dear me
I shall fulfill my duty.
Ready!
Ready!
Ready!
Ready!
With a humble heart,
I take my leave.
Medicine Seller!
The Form remains unseen.
She was smiling.
PART TWO
ONWARD TO THE ASHES OF RAGE
THE PHANTOM IN THE RAIN
The oku
I'll take your offerings for the Birth
Celebratory Ceremony. Form a line.
The oku is off-limits to men. Women
cannot enter without a pass either.
Is this the oku? Oh
my! This is so exciting!
Thank you!
Thank goodness! They've kept their shape.
Know what they are?
I don't, but I'm sure they
are something delicious.
They're rice balls with magnolia leaf miso.
They smell good.
Would you like one?
What?
My grandmother gave me plenty
to bring for everyone at the oku.
I'm here to work at the
oku. My name is Kame.
I shall also begin work at
the oku today. I'm Asa.
Simply irresistible
The smell of burnt miso
and magnolia leaves
Uh you can try one too if you'd like.
I appreciate that.
Hey!
You two over there. Lady
Asa and Lady Kame, right?
Wow, you're both as
beautiful as the rumors say.
I look forward to working with you.
Nice to meet you!
The long journey must have been
tough. I'm Sakashita, a palace guard.
As a guard of the oku, I
watch over this Nanatsu Gate.
Alright then, let me take your luggage.
Thank you.
However, this is all I have,
so I can carry it myself.
Is that so! Lady Kame, you on the
other hand appear to have a lot of luggage.
Master Sakashita, please try
one of my grandmother's rice balls.
Oh, what a fragrant smell!
Shall I prepare a special
love potion for you?
Whoa! Who the heck are you?
Just a humble Medicine Seller.
I sell various goods, including love potions from
England that can enchant any woman in an instant.
I don't need such a thing!
There's something suspicious about
you. What's with your outfit, anyway?
Lady Asa, Lady Kame. You need
to stay away from guys like this.
Nothing good will come of it.
Alright, tell me the
rest when we next meet.
You're a funny guy! See you!
Hiramoto, this is the
oku. Behave yourself.
Hang on a second, Saburomaru. I sense the presence
of beautiful women. Don't those two look great?
Enough already! If you keep messing
around, I'll throw away your pass!
Don't be so uptight. Let's enjoy ourselves.
Show me your passes, just to be safe.
What? Where is it
Senior maids Madam Awashima and Madam
Mugitani are waiting for you beyond the gate.
First impressions are
everything. Good luck.
I shall go introduce myself right away.
Master Sakashita, don't
forget to eat your rice ball!
Thanks!
Hey, you!
Do you require that love potion?
Someone like you has
no place here at the oku.
This is a place reserved exclusively
for the women gathered for His Majesty.
This Nanatsu Gate is as far as you can go. If you attempt to pass
through here without permission, you will be beheaded immediately.
See you later, Medicine Seller!
And I don't need any love potions!
Huh?
One, two
THE PHANTOM IN THE RAIN
How do you do?
How do you do?
Madam Awashima, the head housemaid.
I'm Mugitani, the housemaid.
My name is Asa.
My name is Kame.
I look forward to working with you.
Please, drink. This is the water of The
Water Goddess that watches over us.
All women who live at the oku
drink this water every morning.
All manner of misfortunes
Thus, under the protection of The Water Goddess,
we are always prepared to produce a successor.
Sins and impurities
Next, offer your most cherished belongings
that you've brought from home to this well.
Throw away the person you were until now.
The person I was until now
Throw away?
We must, since we're to
become property of His Majesty.
It'll be okay.
We must offer both our
hearts and our bodies.
Exactly.
They're only things.
Y-You're right!
Okay then
These are rice balls that
my grandmother gave me.
I thought you could all share them but
Now then, I'd say this
has deepened your resolve.
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
Madam Utayama, how do you do?
You won't be able to perform your duties
if you cling onto so many cherished items.
Excuse me! But must we throw away our cherished
things in order to perform our duties?
My, you certainly do
speak your mind, don't you?
I've practiced writing since an early age.
My father has instructed me to continue my studies, since I was granted
the opportunity to enter the oku in recognition of my accomplishments.
However, I have nothing I cherish
so much that I cannot throw it away.
You have nothing that you cherish?
This was from my grandmother! She gave me this
comb. She said to keep it as a good-luck charm.
Kame!
Stop! You needn't do this.
I must.
I have to do well at the oku.
A Form has emerged.
You'll get wet.
M-Madam Utayama!
I'm sorry you had to witness this!
You there! What are you
doing! Lower your head.
This is Madam Utayama, administrator
of the oku, and Lady Botan, a concubine!
Madam Awashima, this newcomer
is certainly well-mannered, isn't she?
I apologize! It seems she lacks the
proper mindset to perform her duties.
I am prepared to dedicate
my life to my duties.
The oku is not a place
for you to fulfill your desires.
What could you possibly mean?
How dare you talk back to Madam Utayama!
Rather than insisting on your own way, dedicate yourself
to the oku. Both you and I are here for that purpose.
As you fulfill your role, you
will gain a higher perspective.
A higher perspective
In time, you will realize that this
burden in your heart was insignificant.
I shall also remember this well!
Madam Utayama, let's go.
We mustn't keep the gentlemen waiting.
Madam Mugitani, try not to be too zealous.
Yes, Lady Botan!
Mr. Sakashita
What?
What is all this commotion about?
You came without even knowing
about the Birth Celebratory Ceremony?
I smelled an opportunity to make a profit.
Unbelievable Lady Yukiko, the consort,
has given birth to His Majesty's child.
This precious festival also serves
as a celebration of that event.
Isn't the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony held before the birth?
Hey! That's because
a lot happened, you see.
Madam Utayama will be arriving shortly!
Excuse me! Please stop!
That's Madam Utayama's
It's fine. I apologize
for keeping you waiting.
My name is Saburomaru
Tokita. This is Hiramoto Saga.
We only just arrived too.
We would like to know why the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony was postponed two months ago.
Please, leave everything to me.
We were called here because
we can't leave it to you.
It is as the report states.
Simple lack of preparation
doesn't explain this.
I reported this matter to Councilor Otomo and have
been instructed to keep things within the oku.
Councilor Otomo?
I come from the Otomo family, and I'm
serving here at the oku. My name is Botan.
It is said that Lady Yukiko had a very difficult
childbirth and is completely exhausted.
There are also those suggesting that this is because the Birth Celebratory Ceremony could
not be held two months ago. In other words, Madam Utayama, you are the one responsible.
I understand this. This is why, although unusual, we
have decided to hold the parade after the childbirth.
Our duty is to oversee the oku.
The oku belongs to His
Majesty. Know your place.
I apologize.
But we have been sent here from the shogunate to supervise and
ensure that the Birth Celebratory Ceremony proceeds smoothly.
You must have heard this
from Councilor Otomo as well.
Of course. However, I would like you to refrain from your vulgar
prying and from your excessive interactions with the maids of the oku.
This is the oku, where men
are usually forbidden to enter.
You may be doing your duty, but anyone who breaks
the rules shall be punished, no matter who they are.
Very well. Please make arrangements so that
we can fulfill our duties starting tomorrow.
Understood.
Suma is thirsty.
You are not.
Kiyo is also thirsty.
You are not.
Fuki is not thirsty.
Matron.
Your Majesty!
I am thirsty.
Lady Fuki, again.
His Majesty is rather fervent, isn't he?
The oku employs roughly 2,000 maids.
You are to prepare breakfast
for everyone before sunrise.
What!
S-Sorry!
First, you'll prepare meals for 50 people on the fourth side.
Once you're used to that, we'll increase it to 100 people.
100 people?
Be sure to finish your own breakfast first.
Understood.
Your writing is so neat, Asa!
Before "before sunrise"? I
wonder what time that is
I used to make breakfast for my neighbors
every day. I'm sure it'll be fine.
I've never even made breakfast before.
It appears Lord Saburomaru is the younger brother of Lady
Fuki, a concubine, and the third son of the Tokita family.
That doesn't change anything.
We shall quietly proceed with preparations for
the Birth Celebratory Ceremony, that's all.
The Tokita family is currently gaining momentum. I'd like to
avoid fighting them and giving them any unnecessary leverage.
That goes for me, a member of the Omoto family, and you, Madam
Utayama, someone under the protection of the Otomo family.
Perhaps we should let them feel
as though they've done some work.
The two of you will have the status of maidservant,
and you will sleep in a second floor room.
You are to serve Madam Awashima, the head
housemaid. Strive diligently in your duties.
2,000 maids
And yet only eight people get to
serve His Majesty as a concubine.
Yes, Ma'am. I shall do my best.
Take the initiative in tasks such as
cleaning and managing the futons.
The longest journey
begins with a single step.
Yes, Ma'am!
Right
It's the concubines. Be
sure to make way for them.
We are like decorative flowers
used to enhance Lady Fuki.
They're the concubines!
It appears His Majesty has interest
for nobody but Lady Fuki anymore.
Didn't you hear me!
S-Sorry!
I hope His Majesty is also inclined to pick
the decorative flowers once in a while too.
His Majesty first spoke to
me when I was still a bud.
I'm sure your time will come too.
L-Lady Fuki! How do you do?
H-How beautiful you are.
You must be new.
Yes My Lady! My name is Kame.
How do you do?
Are you setting up shop or
something? Come on, we're closing!
I'm not setting up shop, but I
can sell you all kinds of goods.
Aren't you drinking?
No. I've decided not to drink
until we finish our duties here.
A boring man.
That's what you are.
This task may be more
difficult than I thought.
All we have to do is look at pretty girls.
Quite the perk.
The oku is more than just a place
for producing His Majesty's successor.
I get that.
The shogunate and the oku are two sides of the same coin. Power
relations outside the oku are maintained by the groundwork laid here.
Never mind politics. If no successor is produced,
one might wonder what the purpose of the oku is.
Oh, I don't mean to
speak ill of your elder sister.
Our duty is to oversee the Birth Celebratory Ceremony,
but the aim of those outside the oku is Madam Utayama.
That old woman
I don't like her.
I now understand what they mean about their
intentions not getting through to the oku.
I suppose that's why they wish to
reduce Madam Utayama's influence.
I can't stand that look on her face,
as if she thinks she runs the world.
You sure have it tough as the
third son of the Tokita family.
You got this job thanks to Lady Fuki,
so you'll need to produce good results.
Why was the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony postponed two months ago?
There must be a reason.
Perhaps Madam Utayama has
held power in the oku for too long.
Hey, don't you think that water stunk?
Yeah It smelled rancid.
How do Madam Awashima and
the others drink it so nonchalantly?
Fire check! Fire check!
Maybe because they're
doing it for His Majesty
Oh, I wish I could become a
concubine like Lady Fuki already.
She was very pretty.
When we passed by Lady Fuki
today, Madam Mugitani's eyes lit up too.
It's Lady Fuki!
How pretty
All concubines are pretty.
Yours did too, right Asa?
As for me, I'd rather learn a skill,
than be a glamorous concubine.
Right now, my goal is to take
on the role of official scribe.
The intensity of His Majesty's
affection towards Lady Fuki as of late
ady Yukiko's child was
also a princess, you see.
Lady Fuki must be incredibly skillful.
At this rate, His Majesty's
successor will be
Asa, you seem like you'd
be good at anything you do.
I'm not sure I can
make it here at the oku.
You'll be fine. Let's work hard together.
Lady Yukiko hasn't been
picked for some time.
Lady Fuki's influence continues to grow.
As for Lady Botan Otomo
She doesn't seem
interested in the night service.
Asa!
I'm really glad I met you, Asa.
Me too.
We have an early start
tomorrow. Let's get some sleep.
Okay. Goodnight.
Goodnight.
DAY TWO
All manner of misfortunes
Sins and impurities
Purify
Cleanse
As heaven sees fit
The Water Goddess is not fond of fire.
Protect us
Grant us fortune
Madam Utayama.
How do you do?
How do you do?
The recently postponed Birth Celebratory
Ceremony is now three days away.
Many guests will arrive on the day.
There are only a few days left, but I want
everyone to stay focused and prepare diligently.
Women without a pass can't enter either!
I'll take your offerings for the Birth
Celebratory Ceremony! Form a line!
No men are to enter the oku!
Women without a pass can't enter either!
Is it still far off?
I shall now announce personnel changes to
coincide with the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
The coordination of this Birth Celebratory
Ceremony shall be entrusted to Awashima.
Awashima will switch from
head housemaid to guest greeter.
From decorations to arrangements for food and
drink, everything needs to be handled efficiently.
Everyone is to fall under
Awashima's command.
There will be over 100 participants
at this Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
From seating arrangements to guidance
upon leaving, there must be no oversights.
Mugitani shall be promoted from housemaid
to head housemaid to take on this duty.
In addition, Concubine Otomo, who is familiar with the power relations among
important shogunate officials and various lords, will act as a mentor for Mugitani.
Mugitani, be sure to learn
proper etiquette from Otomo.
Yes, Ma'am!
And although she just arrived yesterday,
I have something to ask of Asa too.
Huh?
She will serve as a guide for Saburomaru Tokita
and Hiramoto Saga, inspectors from the shogunate.
Although unusual, I will assign
Asa the rank of housemaid.
May I have a word from the two of you?
Well done, Asa!
My name is Saburomaru Tokita.
Lady Asa, I apologize
for any inconvenience.
Tokita? Could he be related to Lady Fuki?
I am Hiramoto Saga. Madam Mugitani, I'll be
relying on your personal guidance later on!
What's with his laid-back attitude?
They have come all the way to the oku, which is usually off-limits to men. The purpose of
their visit is to make sure preparations for the Birth Celebratory Ceremony do not fall short.
Asa, make sure to attend to them properly, so that they
understand there isn't anything requiring supervision.
This is the oku! Everyone,
devote yourselves to this oku!
Go to your positions immediately.
Yes, Ma'am.
I wonder if Lady Asa and
Lady Kame are doing well?
Mr. Sakashita, how would
you say those two are doing?
Lady Asa should be fine, but
I'm worried about Lady Kame.
Girls that are too kind
often face difficulties.
Yet the girls who do succeed sometimes change so much, that they
seem like completely different people when you next see them.
Asa!
I've been studying the ways of the oku
so hard. I can help you guide those two.
Kame
I'll perform my own duties afterward.
Umm
Okay?
It's a promise.
There was another girl
recently that completely changed.
Where is she now?
I heard she left the oku and
went back to her hometown.
You heard What was the name of this maid?
Why! Why must I tell someone like you?
The night chamber lies up ahead.
To think that Lady Fuki passed through here
yesterday on her way to perform night service
Oh my. How exciting!
This has been very insightful.
You have my gratitude.
There are so many interesting things here.
Lady Asa, how long has it been
since you first came to the oku?
Amazing, Kame. I'm surprised
at how much you know.
The rice cake for the Birth Celebratory Ceremony will be pulled around the oku and finally brought
here, where the official scribe will finish proceedings by inscribing the ceremonial character.
Saburomaru, which one is your type?
We're working now, cut it out.
Don't get so embarrassed.
Shh!
The purification salt
should have arrived by now.
The weather has caused a delay. I'm thinking of securing
a substitute from a nearby wholesaler, just to be safe.
Have Asa do it.
Lady Asa?
Kame!
Awashima, how many years has it
been since you came to the oku?
Working has made me hungry!
It has been six years.
Right, me too.
I have made it a practice to give those with
the will and ability a slightly heavier burden.
That includes you too.
But to take on the role of housemaid on
one's first day Even in Kitagawa's time
Madam Awashima, take a look.
You wouldn't think she's
new to this, would you?
Lady Asa wrote this.
We all love ourselves.
We want to be recognized,
loved, and needed.
These are feelings that one
cannot satisfy on their own.
The neighbors expected to fulfill these needs are also the ones
we compare ourselves to and compete with for limited positions.
I will strive to improve.
I just want to talk with you
This feels like the longest
day of my life Hm?
So this is what private rooms
look like! I hope I get one soon!
It's amazing in here, Asa.
I doubt anyone has ever been appointed to an
official position on their first day before.
Madam Utayama chose me
for this role. I have to work hard.
Okay, I'll leave you to it.
What? You're leaving already?
I just wanted a quick
look at the private rooms.
I'm just a mere maid. I need
to prepare the futons and stuff.
I see
See you tomorrow.
Yeah! See you, tomorrow
The umbrella
My apologies. I left that here.
I forgot it when I changed rooms.
Were you using this room before?
That's right.
My name is Kitagawa.
Lady Kitagawa, my name is Asa.
Oh. Come now. There's
no need to be so formal.
Judging from your kimono,
you must be the official scribe.
Such hierarchies only
exist within the oku.
I visited the oku with
my father as a child.
I was moved by the Birth Celebratory Ceremony, and
I've dreamed of working at the oku ever since.
I remember being fascinated by the official scribe, who wielded
her brush so powerfully behind the beautiful dancing princesses.
That was supposed to be my role in the recent
Birth Celebratory Ceremony that was postponed.
I heard it was canceled for some reason?
That's right.
This is a fantastic brush.
Why don't you apply for
the role of official scribe?
I couldn't possibly
I'm still not ready at all.
I'd like to talk with you again. Forget about
hierarchies when just the two of us meet.
Thank you very much.
Can you look after that doll for me?
Huh?
I'll come to see her again too.
Take care. Rest well.
I will.
Goodnight! Lady Kitaga wa
DAY THREE
All manner of misfortunes
Come on, wake up.
Sins and impurities
Sorry
I rely on you for everything
Purify
Guess it can't be helped.
Cleanse
As heaven sees fit
Let's go!
Okay!
Father!
Good girls.
What is all this? I thought I
told you to finish this yesterday.
Did you forget?
No, it's not that
Uh I-I'm sorry! I'm
sorry! I'll do it quickly now!
Starting now? They'll never dry!
That's why you had to finish yesterday!
You can't just decide to do it today.
Besides, you have other
work for today, don't you?
Don't you feel embarrassed
to just wing it like this?
Is something the matter?
L-Lady Asa! Her duties!
She still hasn't finished!
My apologies.
I should have checked.
That won't do. What about the purification salt
I asked for yesterday? Have you sorted that out?
Yes Ma'am.
I sent someone right after receiving your instructions.
It arrived in this morning's early delivery.
Lady Asa is quite the worker!
I see
And then there's you
Madam Awashima! Lady Kame didn't even wake up to prepare
breakfast this morning. What do you make of that?
It's not her fault.
I didn't ask for her help. It's my fault.
This was a task you assigned to be done by two
people, yet I thought I could handle it alone.
It was a mistake on my part.
So in other words, all you're
capable of is flirting with men!
How can you say that
Madam Mugitani!
Yesterday, you were led astray by a man and
abandoned your duties, and today you're oversleeping!
It's hard to tell whether
you're lazy or just frivolous.
If you saw
Oh dear, should I have
been more considerate?
That's now what I meant
Then what did you mean!
That's enough!
Lady Kame, gather your things
and go to Madam Mugitani's room.
You are to learn from scratch
exactly what your duties entail.
Madam Mugitani, please behave in
a manner befitting of an oku maid.
My misconduct caused all this, therefore
Yes, Ma'am.
My, my. Lady Asa, you're willing to take on the responsibility
of instructing Lady Kame, even after your promotion to housemaid?
Yes, Ma'am. If that is my
duty, I humbly accept it.
What
I
I-I'll be careful from
now on! I'll work hard!
No!
No! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!
I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!
I'll be the one to take
responsibility for this girl!
Kame...
Such beautiful hands
It seems that two months ago, one
of the maids fell ill and left the oku.
And nobody has been clearly informed of the reason for
the postponement of the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
Should we get the
shogunate to look into this?
This is a splendid device!
This is a pair of scales.
A pair of scales? Then how,
and what does it weigh?
The distance to
The distance between?
Things that cannot be seen by people.
You don't really intend
to work hard here, do you?
It's obvious.
I'm trying my best
But I can't wake up in the morning.
I try to remember what I'm
told, but always end up forgetting.
I don't do as well as the others,
and I always get left behind.
What did you even come to the oku for?
Why are you here?
I've seen your type before.
Just because you look a little cute, you think it's okay to slack off at
your duties! You're nothing but a woman aiming to shack up with His Majesty!
That's not true
It's here!
No! Stop! Let go!
If you really plan to work hard,
then you won't be needing all this!
No
No!
I told you, step over this
line and you'll lose your head!
The Mononoke It's here!
Stop!
What? This is an emergency!
Further in?
Hey! You can't come in...
What are these
What happened?
The kaleidoscope
Master Sakashita!
Where's the intruder?
Madam Awashima!
Above, huh?
D-Don't go!
Wait...
Madam Awashima!
Oh. Seems she heard a terrible
scream that sounded like Madam Mugitani.
Has it gone?
Wait...
What's all the commotion?
Kame!
She's alive.
Was Lady Kame the only one here?
I heard Madam Mugitani was also here.
It's helpful that you're so calm.
Is Kame?
She'll wake up soo
It seems, I didn't make it on time.
Huh?
That rumbling sound
What is it?
Mugitani
This is not the work of any human.
Who the devil are you!
Not the work of a human
I'm just a Medicine Seller.
You're guilty of intruding into
the oku and causing disorder!
This time, you're dealing with something
that cannot be slain by that sword.
This is the work of a Mononoke.
Mono
noke?
The cause of all these apparitions
Apparitions?
There are no such things at the oku!
Allow me to slay this Mononoke!
The wet floor draws the
shape of a circle as it dries
The name of this Ayakashi
that became a Mononoke is Karakasa.
Hm?
Madam Mugitani
What is that noise?
I have acquired its Form.
Form, you say?
These apparitions cannot be
quelled if I do not slay the Mononoke.
The kaleidoscope
However, a Mononoke cannot
be slain using human weapons.
Which is the reason for this sword. Kon,
one of the eight swords of Yin and Yang.
A masterpiece from the realm of Shuga,
entrusted to us, its sixty-four guardians.
It's also known as
The Sacred Sword!
Why didn't you slay it with
that sword straight away?
Certain conditions must be
met in order to draw this sword.
Conditions?
Form, Truth, Reason.
Without these three elements,
I cannot draw the sword.
Truth is the way things appear.
Reason is the true nature of the
passions that smolder here at the oku.
Are you saying that you can kill this Mononoke thing
if you present the sword with these three elements?
That's correct.
In order to present these three elements
Sakashita, provide this man with a pass.
Yes, Ma'am!
Madam Utayama?
I want you to destroy
this so-called Karakasa.
You are not to speak a word
of tonight's incident to anybody.
And until the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony is over, Mugitani is not dead.
Do you understand, Awashima?
I understand.
Ladies and gentlemen, I now request that you
share with me your own Truths and Reasons.
DAY FOUR
All manner of misfortunes
Sins and impurities
Purify...
Is the water delicious, Heavenly... No,
I should call you The Water Goddess.
Grant us fortune
Could you please wait
before dismissing Lady Kame?
There is no place for the weak, or
those that cannot devote themselves.
This usually becomes
clear in the first three days.
I will let you deal with Kame.
Who's that guy?
A peddler from the Nanatsu Gate.
Everyone, please listen.
Mugitani has suddenly had to return home.
What
Seriously?
She left early this morning, so
she wasn't able to say goodbye.
Look.
She who carries the heavy burden
will gain strength to climb the next step.
I would like to appoint Asa as head housemaid
and have her take over from Mugitani.
Head housemaid?
Has this ever happened before?
Lady Asa
You are capable, aren't you?
Please leave it to me.
That maid never actually made it home.
What was that?
That maid's name
Why is there a peddler in the oku?
You ought to be beheaded!
Why don't you ask Madam Utayama?
Madam Utayama is a
powerful political figure.
I'd like to emulate that success.
Hm? A sword?
I'd like to ask you about a certain maid.
Does the water taste good?
Lady Kitagawa
Sometimes one must discard
something in order to move forward.
Lady Asa, I wonder what you will discard.
Everything I had, I yearned to discard.
But some things must not be discarded.
Such a thing may not be
Tangible.
Once discarded, you will dry up.
I have something I wish
to keep from drying out.
That is why I must throw it away.
Lady Asa
I don't want to
I don't want to see Madam Mugitani.
It's fine. You can work with me today.
Really?
Yes.
Could you take on the role of
attending to the guests at the parade?
Madam Utayama, I am not your subordinate.
As a member of the Otomo family, I am simply here to balance
the dynamics between the oku and those on the outside.
A stern response.
We maids must not
approach the night chamber.
Those are the rules of the oku.
A magician?
What's happening?
Karakasa It's close.
Karakasa?
I've got you now.
I wonder if your aim is to jeopardize my
position as your superior by creating problems.
Neat writing
You've got it wrong!
After meeting Asa here at the
oku, I knew I was in trouble.
I could never do things the way she does.
At this rate, I'll be made to leave.
That's why If I could just
catch His Majesty's eye
Are you doing this because we
made you throw away your comb?
What?
There is no Mononoke, is there!
Mononoke?
You and Lady Asa hid Mugitani, didn't you!
I don't know what you're talking about.
Lady Asa put you up
to everything, didn't she!
You do whatever you want,
and shirk any job you don't like!
There's nothing more cowardly!
Stop!
Is this a dream?
Just follow him!
Those cunning eyes!
Such a little brat! Why!
Madam Utayama!
I never wanted to throw
it away! Forgive me!
It won't open!
It won't open!
I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry!
I'm sorry!
Huh?
take responsibility for this girl.
The Medicine Seller and those two
inspectors are causing a commotion.
What?
Saying there's a Mononoke!
What is that!
Stay away!
Take her!
Wait...
It's too late for this one.
So it turns humans into rainwater?
Lady Kame is by the earthen floor.
Kame!
Two months ago, a maid
went missing from the oku.
That maid was supposed to
have been sent back home.
But she disappeared like smoke,
and nobody knows where she is.
Did Madam Mugitani really
return home this morning?
In addition, the Birth Celebratory
Ceremony was postponed two months ago.
Is this truly a coincidence!
No use, huh?
It's close.
What is that sound?
You needn't pry in this matter.
I thought I told you that it has
been reported to Councilor Otomo.
Tell me. The maid that went
missing What is her name?
Lady Kitagawa's
The former official scribe of the oku
Lady Kitagawa!
I have acquired its Truth.
Lady Kitagawa is its Truth?
The Mononoke It's coming!
What is that!
That right there, is the
Mononoke, Karakasa!
Forgive me!
Karakasa still hasn't
attained its final form.
Once it takes form in this
world, it will become unstoppable.
Awashima!
What is happening at the oku!
The Birth Celebratory Ceremony
will go ahead as planned!
This is all too scary!
Asa, don't let go of my
hand until the morning!
Okay.
It's a promise! If you let go
I won't speak to you again.
I promise I won't let go.
No matter what!
I met with Lady Kitagawa.
You met her? But Lady Kitagawa is
I mustn't dry out I realized that.
Huh?
Thanks to Lady Kitagawa, I realized what
was important, what I mustn't throw away.
That's good!
Yeah.
So what was it? The thing
that's important to you.
What?
I can't say.
Tell me! Tell me! Tell me! Tell me!
Tell me! Tell me! Tell me! Tell me!
There's something I want to tell you, Kame.
Hm? What is it?
Something important.
BIRTH CELEBRATORY CEREMONY
THE DAY ARRIVES
Please don't get in our way.
What do you mean?
Madam Awashima passed away
after the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
But why
A Birth Celebratory Ceremony is just a duty, but it's a duty
for which many people have poured their hearts and souls.
Can a duty be that important?
Isn't your duty to find something
to bring down Madam Utayama?
Lady Asa
I'll send a messenger later.
Your duty shall wait until tomorrow.
I will not allow any disturbances at the oku
until the Birth Celebratory Ceremony is over.
Grant us fortune
So you spoke with Lady Kitagawa?
I thought the Medicine Seller
might be able to protect you, Asa.
I wonder if we can draw
near to the Mononoke's Reason.
I do not know what
happened to Lady Kitagawa.
But
But?
I feel like I've come to understand
Lady Kitagawa's feelings a little more.
Feelings, you say?
I'm sorry I can't tell you anything useful.
No, it helps a little.
But the real mystery is Madam Utayama. Why does she insist on going
ahead with the Birth Celebratory Ceremony despite all these apparitions?
Good point.
This is the oku. There are times when one must
suppress one's own feelings for the sake of duty.
I discern whether or not a person can be entrusted
with important roles based on whether they can do this.
For Lady Kitagawa too?
That's right.
Which means the
Mononoke's next victim will be
Would the apparitions stop if you canceled
the ceremony like you did two months ago?
Is that what you think?
Madam Utayama
This is our duty.
You're right.
The Mononoke is terrifying!
What about the Birth Celebratory Ceremony?
People have died. Surely it can't be held.
The Birth Celebratory Ceremony
will go ahead as planned.
She looked like a mummified monk.
In place of the late Madam Awashima, I will humbly take
over as coordinator for the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
The apparition turned her into a mummy.
Madam Awashima must
have endured so much pain.
The day of the Birth Celebratory Ceremony is
upon us. Please give me your full cooperation.
For His Majesty, the consort, and their child, the
Birth Celebratory Ceremony proceed without a hitch.
She's got some gall to say that.
Is this really okay?
Okay everyone, let's begin
the Birth Celebratory Ceremony.
Everybody to your positions.
Understood.
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
One, two Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
The anticipation often outlasts
the event itself, don't you find?
Time stops for nobody.
I'm sorry you can't participate.
It's fine. That's how it is for
those of us behind the scenes.
At least if I'm here, even
when the Mononoke...
I remember what you
told me when we first met.
That I would gain a higher
perspective as I went on.
You were right, Madam Utayama.
The suffering I had experienced
until then now seems insignificant.
The perspective of those
who stand above others.
I saw a version of myself
that wasn't fazed by anything.
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
Heave-ho! Heave-ho! Heave-ho!
But at the same time, there was
something that held my emotions in place.
That was
Lady Kame.
Kame? Have you decided
how to deal with her?
I informed Lady Okame in
writing to leave the oku.
I wanted to become a concubine
I wanted to wear a beautiful kimono,
and show His Majesty
You didn't let emotion sway
you. It was a good decision.
I also wanted to eat together with Kame,
and I wanted to spend more time
talking with her until late at night.
I owe it to Lady Kitagawa.
Kitagawa?
on anybody!
Madam Utayama!
Is the Mononoke here?
I threw it away
Medicine Seller!
If we don't slay it soon we're in trouble!
Give me the Reason If I don't
draw my sword, we're done for!
Madam Utayama!
What did you throw away?
What?
It's trying to get through to this side!
Why is Karakasa after you?
I do not know!
The ceiling!
Here I go!
Saburo maru?
All dried out
Lady Kitagawa?
Lady Kitagawa!
Kitagawa
I am
all dried out.
So that's Lady Kitagawa?
Karakasa is
manifesting in this world!
When I was first pressured to throw away something
important, I discarded it without hesitation.
I decided to become a different
person by casting it away.
I was favored by Madam Utayama
and steadily rose up at the oku.
There was another girl who
entered the oku with me.
She struggled to fit in and
couldn't do anything right.
I became increasingly irritated with her.
On the day I was entrusted with an important role in the
Birth Celebratory Ceremony, I told her to leave the oku.
I thought I would worry less
and be able to focus on my duties.
That's what I thought
But I was wrong.
I started to think about
what had changed within me.
I realized that I was all dried out.
Before I knew it, I had lost the will to perform my
duties. I lost my role and was unable to leave my room.
All dried out, I must have
thrown something away.
Something important I'd
thrown it away down there.
No!
Kame...
Asa!
Are you okay?
Kitagawa?
Lady Kitagawa told me.
That I mustn't dry out.
Does she hold a grudge?
I don't believe Lady Kitagawa
holds a grudge on anybody!
My duty
This is my duty!
It stinks.
The Reason has been revealed.
Form, Truth, Reason.
With these three elements in
place I shall release my sword!
Release!
Karakasa
Prepare to be cut down,
purified, and laid to rest.
Go back, Mononoke!
Flash Strike!
Forgive me.
Down we go!
Is that the Mononoke?
Oy!
Let's go together.
Your important thing is
I can't say!
Huh?
Dear me
I shall fulfill my duty.
Ready!
Ready!
Ready!
Ready!
With a humble heart,
I take my leave.
Medicine Seller!
The Form remains unseen.
She was smiling.
PART TWO
ONWARD TO THE ASHES OF RAGE
THE PHANTOM IN THE RAIN