The Grimm Variations (2024) s01e01 Episode Script
Cinderella
1
[birdsong]
[scribbling]
[man] Wilhelm. How is that new fairy tale
you've been working on coming along?
I'm finished, Jacob. It's all written out.
[wind whistling]
[both gasp]
Ah! Is that you, Charlotte?
We can see you hiding, you know.
[sighs, giggles]
My dear brother Jacob.
And my dear brother Wilhelm.
I would love to know more about
the new fairy tale you've been working on.
It's a story about a poor little girl
who lost her parents.
[gasps]
Cinderella
[Jacob] Orphaned and alone,
Cinderella is mistreated
by her stepmother and stepsisters.
Poor thing
[Wilhelm] There's no need to worry,
little one.
Huh?
A diligent and hardworking girl
like our protagonist
will inevitably get her happy ending,
with good hope.
[gasps]
[slow jazz music playing]
[suspenseful music playing]
[man] What do you say, Miss Tsuruko?
Viscount Otawara,
I worry that if I accept your proposal
Do you still have misgivings?
[Tsuruko] I only worry
what your darling daughter
will think of us.
- Trust me, there's no reason for concern.
- [Tsuruko] What?
[Otawara] Actually,
the proposal was Kiyoko's idea.
She encouraged it.
- It seems she desires a new mother.
- She'd see me as one?
That's right. You and your daughters
would live here with us both,
and I promise you will live
without a care.
Oh.
Mmm.
[lively music playing]
[birdsong]
OTAWARA
[Tsuruko] Girls, we've finally arrived.
- Now please, do watch your step.
- [girl 1 laughs]
- Mama, tell me I'm not dreaming.
- [gasps]
I've never seen such a magnificent
building in my whole life.
[girl 1] Is this place
really our new home?
You two, stop your prattling.
That talk is hardly befitting
of the daughters of a viscount.
[both] Oh!
- Now, that's better.
- [door opens]
- [man] Madam Tsuruko.
- Oh.
It with great pleasure that
we welcome you and your daughters home.
[both giggle softly]
[mellow harpsichord playing]
[sighs] "Sawako Otawara."
That has the most beautiful ring to it.
"Makiko Otawara"
sounds much more ladylike.
Well, nobody asked you, wench!
- Sawako is far more charming and elegant.
- [Makiko] In your dreams!
- [knock at door]
- [Tsuruko] Come in.
[both gasp]
[delicate chime rings]
Uh
Oh! Who are you?
[gasps]
- [laughing]
- [Tsuruko gasps]
I'm Kiyoko! Oh, Mother!
And my dear sisters!
- I'm your new little sister! How exciting!
- Uh
I've been dreaming about this day!
I've waited and wondered for so long
what my new family would be like!
And now my dream's come true!
In fact,
it's even better than I dreamt it!
I don't think there's a happier girl
in the world than I am right now!
Please, don't hesitate
to ask anything of me.
Make yourself at home! We're family now!
I swear I'll be the best little sister
either of you have ever had.
[both chuckle uncomfortably]
Oh, that's right.
I forgot to introduce my friend!
I'd like for you all
to be her friend, too, please!
[crickets chirping]
I was convinced she would be
a selfish brat, but she's harmless.
She seems more innocent and naïve, really.
I know, right?
She even called us her "dear sisters."
She'll probably do whatever we ask.
Right. Did you see
that gorgeous hairpin she was wearing?
Is that all you can think about right now?
Though those amethysts
were very pretty, weren't they?
[Sawako] Yes!
[Makiko] She'd give it to you if you told
her you liked it. We're family now, right?
[Sawako] Who's the selfish brat now?
[prim chamber music playing]
[slurping]
[gulping]
[grunting] Argh!
- [whines]
- Use your manners!
You weren't raised in a barn.
- Hmm!
- [Tsuruko and Makiko gasp]
- Hmm! Mmm!
- [Tsuruko] Oh my, Lady Kiyoko.
[slurps] I want to be
just like my big sisters.
It makes the food taste better,
and it's fun!
- [both] Uh
- [Kiyoko] Can we eat this way from now on?
[birdsong]
[Makiko and Sawako gasp]
[Kiyoko] These are the clothes
my mother wore when she was young.
I'm sorry that they're not brand new.
[Sawako] They're beautiful!
This is really quite nice!
Yeah. But I think it would look
even nicer on me than you!
- How dare you snatch that from me?
- Well, now this is mine! So just back off!
[snorts]
- [grunts]
- [Sawako squeals]
[both grunting angrily]
[Sawako squeals]
[gasps] This is your fault, you brat!
My fault? Dusty old hog!
- [Makiko] How dare you? You pulled hard!
- [Sawako] I could have got hurt!
You should have let go!
[huffs]
- [girl] What vulgar hussies.
- [woman] Yoshi!
You can tell just by looking at them that
they're the daughters of a former geisha.
But if you ask me, they're a complete
disgrace to the Otawara household.
- They're nothing like Miss Kiyoko.
- [grunts]
[Yoshi] I can't believe
they had the audacity
to snatch up
all of the late madam's kimonos.
Jeez, I mean It would have been nice
if those greedy selfish brats
had saved at least one of them for me.
Enough of that, Yoshi.
It was Miss Kiyoko's idea, you know.
Those two are her sisters now.
[Yoshi] Fine!
[eerie music playing]
[giggles]
[sighs]
Such lovely people.
This will be so much fun for me!
My new mother seems intelligent,
and my two big sisters are very kind.
I'm looking forward to this!
[giggles]
Hmm.
I really am. [sighs]
[birds chirping]
Pardon the interruption.
Do either of you know
who cleaned the girls' rooms yesterday?
[woman 1] I'm not sure.
Either Tomi or Yoshi.
We can ask them whose duty it was.
Is something wrong?
Yes. Lady Makiko's hairpin
has disappeared.
[woman 1] You're kidding!
[older servant] You mean
Miss Kiyoko gave it to you?
- [Makiko] Yes yes, she did.
- [chirping]
When she found out how much
I loved her gorgeous amethyst hairpin,
she said it would look better on me
than it would on her.
- So she gave it to me.
- You got it? That's so unfair!
You two, quiet!
Why didn't you tell us?
Mmm Kiyoko said
to keep it a secret between just us.
She said she felt bad
about the kimono being torn apart.
Oh!
- [Yoshi] That hurts!
- [both] Oh?
- Let go of me! I did nothing wrong!
- [growls]
[Yoshi gasps and sobs]
[man] She was prancing around like a crow
with a shiny treasure between its beak.
- So I dragged her here.
- What's all this about?
[man] Here. This is it, right?
- [both gasp]
- You have my hairpin!
- Gah!
- [man] Huh.
[whimpers]
[grunts]
- How dare you? Dirty little pickpocket!
- [Yoshi squeals]
- You sullied the gilt with filthy hands!
- [slapping]
Please stop! I found it in the garden
and thought it was pretty!
I didn't know it was stolen!
- Please believe me!
- You're a liar!
[Tsuruko] Makiko!
- That's quite enough of that!
- [Makiko growls]
[Tsuruko] I won't stand for
you tarnishing my husband's good name.
[Yoshi sobbing]
I cannot have a thief working here.
Everything between these four walls
belongs to my husband,
down to the smallest stones.
You are to leave this house
right this instant!
[sobbing]
[Sawako] I'm so jealous.
You get all the nice things.
That's just too bad, isn't it?
Ugh! I can't stand you.
[man] What Yoshi did was wrong,
but those two sisters are just as bad.
Acting like feral territorial animals.
All they do is take, take, take.
It must have been their upbringing.
[all gasp]
[Makiko scoffs]
[foreboding music playing]
[sighs] Hmm.
Mm.
[trembling]
[gasps]
Please forgive me! I'm terribly sorry!
- Go get her another.
- [butler sighs] Right away, sir.
What's wrong with you all today?
You're all acting strange.
Hmm?
It's nothing, my Lady.
[Makiko] If there's something
you want to say, then out with it!
Huh?
Don't play coy.
We can see your hands trembling from fear.
- I told you to spit it out!
- Makiko!
[Sawako] She's right!
You treat us like we're nothing but fools.
You call us unrefined and gossip about us.
[Otawara] Please settle down.
All of you, is that true?
- It's not, my Lord!
- [Makiko scoffs]
I'm terribly sorry, my dear Makiko.
Mmm? [grunts]
Your lives would be significantly harder
if we lost our servants.
Be sure to treat them
with the respect they deserve.
[sisters gasp]
Well, what do you two have to say?
- [Kiyoko] My dear Makiko.
- Mm?
Here. You can use this
to clean yourself off.
Would you please forgive the servants,
for my sake?
Please?
[Makiko grunts]
[panting]
[scoffs]
[Sawako] You won't wear it anymore?
Mm.
It's just too heavy.
[Sawako] I bet the servants
all hate us, don't they?
[Makiko] That's for sure.
And since they're only ever going to see
us as the children of a lowly commoner,
then it's no surprise they'd have no
problem stealing a hairpin or two from us.
I suppose, but what a fool that girl was.
Of all the hairpins,
why steal the one Kiyoko
What, Makiko?
- Say, does any of this seem odd to you?
- [Sawako] Hmm?
[Makiko] Even a poor girl like her,
she'd be able to tell
how expensive that hairpin was.
So why would she
be flaunting it like that?
[Sawako gasps] She may as well have
declared from the rooftops
that she stole it.
Do you think it's possible
someone might be trying to disgrace us?
But who in the world
would do that, Makiko?
Even I didn't know
Kiyoko gave you that hairpin,
so how would anyone else know?
- [rattle]
- [both gasp]
[sisters, in unison] Kiyoko!
[trembling] I, um I was just
You were just spying on us.
Hold on. Don't tell me
it was you behind all of this!
I don't understand what you're saying
Stop it. You're the one who gave me
that hairpin in the first place.
You knew what you were doing.
What are you talking about?
You're scaring me! [whimpers]
[both sigh]
- [clattering]
- [Kiyoko screams]
[both gasp]
[butler] Lady Kiyoko!
Lady Kiyoko! Lady Kiyoko!
[whimpers]
Are you hurt, Lady Kiyoko?
Lady Kiyoko! Lady Kiyoko!
You're saying she fell on her own?
[both] Mmm.
[butler] According to
what Lady Kiyoko told me,
when she went upstairs to console
her sisters after the dinner incident,
she noticed that
they were both acting rather strangely.
[sisters gasp and sigh]
She said, when she ran from the room,
one of the two sisters
suddenly reached for her,
which caused her to lose her balance
and fall down the stairs.
- [Sawako] That's not what happened!
- [Otawara] Are you saying Kiyoko is lying?
A small quarrel, as sisters do,
but that's all it was.
We didn't touch her!
So now,
you're insulting my daughter as well?
[both gasp]
[Otawara sighs]
Although we are not blood,
I have done my very best
to make sure you feel like you're family
while in this home.
- However, all of that ends today.
- No, please!
- Papa!
- [Tsuruko and sisters gasp]
- [Otawara] Kiyoko!
- [servant] Oh!
[Kiyoko whimpers]
[Otawara] Kiyoko!
Don't blame them.
I think they were only trying to help
keep me from falling down the stairs.
But I wasn't in my right mind then,
and I guess I must've gotten startled.
It was just bad timing
that her hand struck me when it did.
[both gasp]
So please, don't punish her
because I fell down the stairs!
It it was all my fault!
Please, my Lord. Despite my protests,
Lady Kiyoko insisted we come here
to defend her sisters,
though she really should
be in bed resting her ankle.
Kiyoko.
Do you wish to forgive your sisters?
Of course I forgive them, Papa.
- [whimpers]
- [gasps]
Mmm!
Because that's what you do
when you're a family.
Papa, nothing could ever
separate me from my beloved sisters.
Please, don't punish them on my behalf.
[both gasp]
[Kiyoko] Makiko, wait!
I have the best present
in the world for you!
Oh my
[Kiyoko] I'm sure
they will look perfect on you!
And I thought, "This is
probably too plain for Sawako."
Huh? Kiyoko! What are you wearing?
Aah! Do you like it? I decided I mustn't
get out of line in front of my sisters,
so I'm dressed like a servant.
So from now on, think of me
as your humble maidservant,
and ask me for anything at all.
[Kiyoko] My dear sisters!
I'm sure they will look perfect on you.
- [Kiyoko 1] maidservant and ask
- [Kiyoko 2] Dear Makiko! My dear Sawako!
That's what you do when you're a family.
[Kiyoko] Nothing can separate me
from my sisters.
Dear sisters. My dear Makiko!
My dear Sawako!
I'd do anything to be with you.
[servant girl sighs]
The older sisters have become even more
demanding with us these past few weeks.
It's unbearable.
And they've dragged
poor Lady Kiyoko into it.
She's doing everything she can
to appease their wishes.
- Then why don't you go and tell Kiyoko?
- [gasps]
Why not just tell her that you don't want
our commoner family around here?
In fact, while you're at it,
tell her to just kick us out!
- We would never do that, of course!
- Please forgive our gossip, my lady.
Cut the act. I didn't ask for an apology!
- [Kiyoko] What's the matter, Makiko?
- [gasps and sighs]
[Kiyoko] Oh no.
Did I do something to upset you again?
Please don't take it out on them.
It was all my fault, I'm sorry!
[whimpering]
[seethes]
- [Otawara] Kiyoko?
- [gasps]
What are you doing in here?
[Makiko grunts]
- [whimpers]
- [Otawara] Wait a minute!
Oh! Kiyoko, did she do something to you?
Don't you worry about me, Papa.
I'm all right.
Hmm. I've had quite enough
of them and their little antics.
It was probably a mistake to let them
into this house in the first place.
JAPANESE PASSPOR
MAKIKO OTAWARA
[somber music playing]
[birdsong]
[Tsuruko] Kiyoko laid a trap for you?
That's right! That little brat's
been playing us all along.
Ugh, this is so ridiculous.
You both have let
your imaginations run away with you.
Please listen to us, Mother!
You're wrong, there's something off
about that girl. She's creepy!
[Tsuruko] I've had enough
of your mischief!
Honestly, what if your stepfather
heard you say any of this?
Let him hear!
Do you really think he would kick us out,
Mother? Of course he wouldn't!
She'll just apologize with tears
and manipulate him to think we're some
unscrupulous and diabolical masterminds.
Let me ask you this.
Just what benefit would Kiyoko gain
from playing these games?
[both] Mmm?
[Tsuruko] It's clear she wants
to look good in the eyes of others.
- I've gathered that much about her.
- [Makiko grunts]
[Tsuruko] With that said,
why would she cater to her stepsisters
and act like a maid to achieve that goal?
- No normal person would go that far.
- [lively jazz playing]
[Makiko] Well, Kiyoko isn't normal!
For some childish reason,
you despise Kiyoko. That's evident.
- We don't!
- Wait! Listen to us, Mother!
[Tsuruko] Enough of this.
You're giving me a headache.
[both sigh]
[door closes]
Ugh.
[knocking at door]
[sighs]
What is it now? Oh
If I may say so,
you don't look so well, madam.
I'm all right. I have quite a bit
weighing on my mind is all.
Ugh. It's unbelievable.
Depressing, really.
[Kiyoko] I sense
that something is troubling you.
Well, if there is any way
I can be of service to you,
please let me know, my madam.
[door opens]
[upbeat jazz playing]
- Wh "Madam"?
- [door closes]
[gasps]
[Kiyoko, in low voice]
Your father was in an accident?
[Kiyoko] Yes, he's dead now.
- [Kiyoko, low voice] How terribly sad.
- [Kiyoko, normal voice] How come?
[low voice] It's sad
when a person dies suddenly.
[normal voice] Is that right?
Then why do I feel so good?
- [lively jazz playing]
- [low voice] You feel good?
- Kiyoko? Why are you dressed like that?
- [gasps]
I'm celebrating!
Now nothing can get in the way
of us sisters becoming closer than ever!
[giggles]
[bird chirping]
[whimpers softly]
[gentle chamber music playing]
Mmm.
[elegant chamber music playing]
OTAWARA
FIVE YEARS LATER
Makiko, how has
Mother's health been doing lately?
Why on earth are you asking me that?
[Sawako] Well, how is she?
This morning, she developed a mild fever.
That's troubling.
[Kiyoko] My lady wishes she could be here,
but is concerned
about giving you two her cold.
I see.
I'm leaving.
Have them bring the car around for me.
[Kiyoko] Certainly.
[sighs heavily] Always so restless.
[Kiyoko] Lady Makiko?
What is it?
If anything is not to your liking, milady,
please do feel free to let me know.
[scoffs] To my liking?
Oh, please. You don't need to ask me that.
You know perfectly well
that things are not to my liking.
[whimpers]
[servant girl] Those two girls have
completely taken over this house now.
I'll never understand
why Lady Kiyoko lets them.
Well, could they possibly
have some kind of dirt on her?
How could they?
There is no one with a kinder
or purer heart than Lady Kiyoko.
What could they possibly have against her?
Pardon the interruption.
It is time for your medicine, madam.
[somber music playing]
How are you feeling today?
Same as always. [coughs]
Where are my girls?
They have both
gone out for the day, madam.
I see.
[Kiyoko] Here you are.
That tea is bitter,
and has such a foul smell to it.
Well, I apologize for the taste.
They all say medicine only works
when it's bitter.
Mm.
[Kiyoko] Is this how it feels
to be truly happy?
Huh?
It's just that ever since my father died
in that accident,
every day has been so much more fun.
I hope this feeling continues forever.
[rain pouring]
- [thunder rumbling]
- [sisters panting]
[both gasp]
[thunderclap]
Sisters, are you really
going to abandon our mother?
- [Makiko grunts]
- [Sawako gasps]
Please don't go!
[voice overlapping]
I'll do anything you ask!
[giggles]
[Kiyoko] Now they're all here with me.
And they let me do whatever I want.
Whatever I want.
Uh?
You're right. It's frightening.
Who knows
when this happiness will disappear?
Happiness is a truly fragile thing,
don't you think?
[birdsong]
MRS. TSURUKO OTAWARA AND HER DAUGHTERS
[Tsuruko] Count Ichijo?
Yes. He is hosting
an extravagant ball next month,
and he has invited all of us to attend.
He's a count, so it's safe to assume
he's a man of great standing.
Yes.
Count Masateru is a great man.
And his heir, Masataka,
graduated from Imperial University
and is an officer in the navy.
He is renowned
for his wonderful personality.
Kiyoko, aren't you going to attend?
[gasps]
I would never think of it, madam.
Someone like me doesn't belong at a ball.
You don't need to be worried
about me, if that's what it is.
Madam
I'm sure my daughters will want to attend.
Make sure they don't offend anyone.
Certainly.
So he's a count, you say?
I will call for new gowns
to be made for you both!
They must be more beautiful
and extravagant than anyone else's!
There's no time to dillydally.
I must place an order immediately.
[door closes]
Just what is she scheming now?
Now, how on Earth would I know that?
Yeah, good point. How would you know?
Wait Interesting.
It looks like the count's heir will also
be searching for a bride at this ball.
My, how refined.
[yelps]
- What was that for?
- [Makiko] Hold on.
[gasps] This could finally be our chance!
Our chance? For what? [gasps]
[intriguing music playing]
[doll] Things have taken
an interesting turn.
[Kiyoko giggles]
[lively chamber music playing]
[Sawako] I've had it!
None of these dresses are flattering!
Is this all you have?
What about those nice pearls over there?
Well, those pearl earrings
are madam's fav [gasps]
- [Makiko] "Madam"?
- [whimpers]
[Makiko] You still see her
as the head of this house?
And what about our mother?
She's actually alive!
- I'm so sorry. I
- Do you see her as some kind of imposter?
- [servant girl] No, not at all.
- [glass crunches]
[both gasp]
They were only cheap trinkets.
My dear sisters should be adorned
with only the most beautiful jewelry
we have to offer.
Yes. I think Kiyoko just
might have the right idea.
Mmm. She does. These are perfect.
- [door closes]
- [horse neighs]
Makiko
It'll be just fine.
[Makiko] Wait. This could be our chance!
Our chance? For what? [gasps]
You're saying
that if Mr. Ichijo chooses one of us
After all, he is the son of a count.
No woman in her right mind
would complain about that.
We'd be free for good!
We could finally escape Kiyoko!
And take Mother with us!
Hmm.
If we're able
to capture the count's attention,
we will finally be free from all this!
[both gasp]
- [murmur of voices]
- [solemn chamber music playing]
[horses neighing]
[door creaks]
[horse neighs]
[whispering]
[man 1] Look.
It's the Viscount Otawara's girls.
[woman 1] Those are just
the stepdaughters.
[woman 2]
Clothes can make anyone look good.
[yelps]
[guests whispering and laughing]
- Mm.
- [Makiko gasps]
- [man 2] Here you are.
- Um
Oh! Thank you, kind stranger!
I am Masataka Ichijo.
And who might you be?
I I am Sawako Otawara, sir.
And this here
is my beautiful older sister, Makiko.
Welcome, and thank you for coming.
Now please, come in.
[both chuckle]
[coughing]
[Kiyoko] Your daughters have left.
They were very eager
to attend the ball tonight.
I can hardly wait myself.
Those two are such vulgar, boorish tramps.
They could never have been fit
to be the daughters of a viscount.
I can hardly wait to see
how they will behave themselves.
[Tsuruko] Why, you
- How dare you? What are you planning?
- [pouring liquid]
[cup clinks]
[murmur of voices]
Uh
[laughs]
- Wow, you can certainly hold your liquor.
- Oh?
What, you're not attracted
to a woman who can hold her own?
Men and women are equal
in this world, you know.
I concur. I'm all for equality.
- [man] Masataka, sir.
- Uh
- Pardon me.
- Oh!
[gasps]
Give me another!
Stop drinking so much.
Why? What's the matter with it?
We're at a ball,
and there's an open bar! Mmm!
[sighs]
- [ripple of laughter]
- [gasps]
[Sawako] Oh?
- [Makiko grunts]
- What's wrong?
[panting]
[excited murmuring]
[lively chamber music playing]
[woman] Beautiful
[Makiko gasps]
- [inaudible]
- [guests murmuring and giggling]
[gasps]
Kiyoko
[gasps]
My dear Makiko!
Please, forgive me!
After seeing the two of you off earlier,
I just couldn't keep myself
from coming to the ball with you.
All I had was this pathetic dress
from 20 years ago,
but it was my late mother's dress.
I wanted to wear it so my mother and I
could attend a radiant ball together
at least once in my life. [gasps]
So, please, forgive me, dear sister!
[splutters] Why, you
[Sawako] Give me a break!
- You have some nerve!
- [both gasp]
Sawako
You act all innocent
to hide what a terrible person you are!
You're a monster!
It appears you've had
more than enough to drink tonight.
- [Makiko] Mr. Ichijo
- [Sawako grunts]
No need to worry yourselves!
I'll take care of Lady Kiyoko.
- You two may go.
- [Sawako] Uh
[gasps] Hey! Let go!
You must be enjoying this!
How dare you disgrace my sister
in front of everyone?
[grunts] Kiyoko!
I hope you're proud
of your vicious little scheme!
[screeches] You godless fiend!
- She's quite rude.
- I must go. I need to return home!
- Uh
- They both are so upset with me! [wails]
You don't need to be afraid anymore.
You're safe here.
Lady Kiyoko, may I ask for a dance?
I find music and dancing
is the best way to calm your nerves.
[Kiyoko] Hmm
Hmm! Yes.
[guests gasping]
[man] They make such a lovely couple.
[woman 1] Like out of a fairy tale.
So enchanting.
[woman 2] They look so lovely, don't they?
After the sudden death
of Viscount Otawara,
we lost communication with your household.
I would like
to reestablish that connection.
This may come across as impertinent,
but your stepsisters
They're a little odd, don't you think?
Please don't say that about them.
My sisters don't have
any ill will towards me.
Kiyoko
[lively music playing]
PASSPOR
[Kiyoko] To think he was planning
to send them abroad to study.
Such an imprudent decision.
That's right.
Why doesn't he understand
what I'm trying to do?
Oh, my dear Father.
If only he hadn't meddled,
he could've lived on forever
as one of my favorite toys to play with.
I don't want a toy like him anymore.
[Tsuruko] But I thought
you saw us as a family?
Yes, madam.
To me, you are an irreplaceable family.
As well as my prized doll collection.
Kiyoko! [gasps]
[coughing]
You've lasted a long time.
You're very tough.
- But
- [gasps]
I don't need any broken dolls.
[music intensifies]
[music stops]
[celebratory laughter, chattering]
Mmm.
- You seem happy.
- [Kiyoko] Hmm?
[Masataka] I can see it on your face.
Hmm.
- [laughter and applause fade]
- I am. I'm having an excellent time.
[Masataka] Please, don't go!
Are you leaving already?
Have I done something to offend you?
Not at all.
When will I see you? Please, Lady Kiyoko.
Sadly we will never meet again.
[gasps]
- [carriage door opens]
- [sighs]
[door shuts]
[horses neighing]
- [clinking]
- Uh Oh.
[sisters screaming]
Please wake up! Please, Mother!
This can't be real! Open your eyes!
- [Sawako sobbing]
- You come here!
- How could you! What did you do to her?
- [gasps]
My Lady Makiko!
I know it was you, Kiyoko!
- You killed our mother!
- [Kiyoko squeals]
- [panting]
- Lady Makiko!
[Makiko] You never letting us see Mother
was all part of your scheme, wasn't it?
Mama, I'm sorry. We wanted to visit,
but were terrified she would hurt you
if we tried to defy her. [sobs]
[older servant] Oh, my lady,
that's utterly ridiculous.
Not one of you ever even questioned
what was happening here!
[Makiko struggling]
All I know is your mother
has been suffering for a very long time.
But she's finally found her eternal rest.
She didn't die from her illness!
This is all her fault.
I won't stand for this!
I certainly understand them
being blinded by their grief
But then to blame Lady Kiyoko
for madam's death is absolutely absurd.
It really is awful.
I suppose I never really understood
what it was
my two sisters desired from me.
I think I will brew them some of the tea
with the medicine that Madam drank.
It has a calming effect
and quiets the mind.
From now on, I must dedicate myself
to serving them as best as I can.
I must be even more diligent.
[older servant] Lady Kiyoko
[clattering]
Since I am the eldest daughter,
the title of master of the household
has been bequeathed to me.
This upon the untimely deaths
of the late viscount and his wife.
While the grief of my late mother's
passing still hangs heavy over this house,
I find it incredibly rude,
even for the son of a count,
to come here inquiring about Kiyoko.
All due respect, but Kiyoko is
the only blood heir of the late viscount.
Yes, well, Kiyoko put me in charge.
Everyone is aware
of how you terrorized that poor girl,
and forced her to act
as your personal handmaid
instead of treating her
like she was your sister.
That was also Kiyoko's wish.
I am not ashamed to have obliged.
This is going nowhere!
Excuse me?
- [Kiyoko screams]
- [both gasp]
- [men grunting]
- [Sawako] You dirty little tramp!
- Caught you red-handed!
- Please forgive me, dear Sawako!
- [struggling continues]
- Lady Kiyoko!
- [gasps] Lord Masataka!
- [butler grunts]
- Lord Masataka! Uh
- Lady Kiyoko!
Oh, Lord Ichijo
You're safe.
- Lady Kiyoko is coming with me!
- Mmm!
Fine, do as you wish.
But this house belongs
to me and my sister.
[Masataka] You have absolutely
no legal right to this household.
All of it was passed down to Lady Kiyoko.
[gasps]
[growls]
- [both gasping]
- [Sawako] No!
Let us in! Listen to me!
I'll never forgive you!
Open up! I said open it!
[Makiko] That's enough, Sawako.
Huh?
[gasps]
[sobbing]
[wistful music playing]
[Makiko] We did it. We're finally free.
[Sawako sobbing]
- [creaking]
- [Kiyoko giggles]
[doll] Those two ran off, or so it seems.
[Kiyoko] They managed to outwit me.
They were a disgrace at the ball
and treated the servants harshly.
They put on a good show, but it was
all an act so I'd marry the count's son.
[doll] Clearly the daughters of a geisha.
They even managed to raise the ire
of the Count's son in the end.
It's such a shame.
But they kept us entertained.
Far longer than anyone else ever did.
[laughs]
Speak for yourself.
Entertained? Hardly.
How can you say that? Come now,
we've enjoyed playing this game together.
- [doll] Is that so?
- Of course.
So, then. What will you do?
- What do you mean?
- What will be the next game you play?
My next game? I don't know.
- [rustling]
- Hmm?
Hmm?
[Masataka] You couldn't sleep?
Mmm. No.
- I just had something on my mind.
- [lively jazz playing]
[Masataka] What was it?
[Kiyoko] Oh just thinking about
the fun I'm going to have.
Uh
Oh
- [chuckles]
- Hmm!
[doll] Yes.
We're going to have so much fun.
[giggles]
[lively jazz continues]
[music stops]
[birdsong]
[scribbling]
[man] Wilhelm. How is that new fairy tale
you've been working on coming along?
I'm finished, Jacob. It's all written out.
[wind whistling]
[both gasp]
Ah! Is that you, Charlotte?
We can see you hiding, you know.
[sighs, giggles]
My dear brother Jacob.
And my dear brother Wilhelm.
I would love to know more about
the new fairy tale you've been working on.
It's a story about a poor little girl
who lost her parents.
[gasps]
Cinderella
[Jacob] Orphaned and alone,
Cinderella is mistreated
by her stepmother and stepsisters.
Poor thing
[Wilhelm] There's no need to worry,
little one.
Huh?
A diligent and hardworking girl
like our protagonist
will inevitably get her happy ending,
with good hope.
[gasps]
[slow jazz music playing]
[suspenseful music playing]
[man] What do you say, Miss Tsuruko?
Viscount Otawara,
I worry that if I accept your proposal
Do you still have misgivings?
[Tsuruko] I only worry
what your darling daughter
will think of us.
- Trust me, there's no reason for concern.
- [Tsuruko] What?
[Otawara] Actually,
the proposal was Kiyoko's idea.
She encouraged it.
- It seems she desires a new mother.
- She'd see me as one?
That's right. You and your daughters
would live here with us both,
and I promise you will live
without a care.
Oh.
Mmm.
[lively music playing]
[birdsong]
OTAWARA
[Tsuruko] Girls, we've finally arrived.
- Now please, do watch your step.
- [girl 1 laughs]
- Mama, tell me I'm not dreaming.
- [gasps]
I've never seen such a magnificent
building in my whole life.
[girl 1] Is this place
really our new home?
You two, stop your prattling.
That talk is hardly befitting
of the daughters of a viscount.
[both] Oh!
- Now, that's better.
- [door opens]
- [man] Madam Tsuruko.
- Oh.
It with great pleasure that
we welcome you and your daughters home.
[both giggle softly]
[mellow harpsichord playing]
[sighs] "Sawako Otawara."
That has the most beautiful ring to it.
"Makiko Otawara"
sounds much more ladylike.
Well, nobody asked you, wench!
- Sawako is far more charming and elegant.
- [Makiko] In your dreams!
- [knock at door]
- [Tsuruko] Come in.
[both gasp]
[delicate chime rings]
Uh
Oh! Who are you?
[gasps]
- [laughing]
- [Tsuruko gasps]
I'm Kiyoko! Oh, Mother!
And my dear sisters!
- I'm your new little sister! How exciting!
- Uh
I've been dreaming about this day!
I've waited and wondered for so long
what my new family would be like!
And now my dream's come true!
In fact,
it's even better than I dreamt it!
I don't think there's a happier girl
in the world than I am right now!
Please, don't hesitate
to ask anything of me.
Make yourself at home! We're family now!
I swear I'll be the best little sister
either of you have ever had.
[both chuckle uncomfortably]
Oh, that's right.
I forgot to introduce my friend!
I'd like for you all
to be her friend, too, please!
[crickets chirping]
I was convinced she would be
a selfish brat, but she's harmless.
She seems more innocent and naïve, really.
I know, right?
She even called us her "dear sisters."
She'll probably do whatever we ask.
Right. Did you see
that gorgeous hairpin she was wearing?
Is that all you can think about right now?
Though those amethysts
were very pretty, weren't they?
[Sawako] Yes!
[Makiko] She'd give it to you if you told
her you liked it. We're family now, right?
[Sawako] Who's the selfish brat now?
[prim chamber music playing]
[slurping]
[gulping]
[grunting] Argh!
- [whines]
- Use your manners!
You weren't raised in a barn.
- Hmm!
- [Tsuruko and Makiko gasp]
- Hmm! Mmm!
- [Tsuruko] Oh my, Lady Kiyoko.
[slurps] I want to be
just like my big sisters.
It makes the food taste better,
and it's fun!
- [both] Uh
- [Kiyoko] Can we eat this way from now on?
[birdsong]
[Makiko and Sawako gasp]
[Kiyoko] These are the clothes
my mother wore when she was young.
I'm sorry that they're not brand new.
[Sawako] They're beautiful!
This is really quite nice!
Yeah. But I think it would look
even nicer on me than you!
- How dare you snatch that from me?
- Well, now this is mine! So just back off!
[snorts]
- [grunts]
- [Sawako squeals]
[both grunting angrily]
[Sawako squeals]
[gasps] This is your fault, you brat!
My fault? Dusty old hog!
- [Makiko] How dare you? You pulled hard!
- [Sawako] I could have got hurt!
You should have let go!
[huffs]
- [girl] What vulgar hussies.
- [woman] Yoshi!
You can tell just by looking at them that
they're the daughters of a former geisha.
But if you ask me, they're a complete
disgrace to the Otawara household.
- They're nothing like Miss Kiyoko.
- [grunts]
[Yoshi] I can't believe
they had the audacity
to snatch up
all of the late madam's kimonos.
Jeez, I mean It would have been nice
if those greedy selfish brats
had saved at least one of them for me.
Enough of that, Yoshi.
It was Miss Kiyoko's idea, you know.
Those two are her sisters now.
[Yoshi] Fine!
[eerie music playing]
[giggles]
[sighs]
Such lovely people.
This will be so much fun for me!
My new mother seems intelligent,
and my two big sisters are very kind.
I'm looking forward to this!
[giggles]
Hmm.
I really am. [sighs]
[birds chirping]
Pardon the interruption.
Do either of you know
who cleaned the girls' rooms yesterday?
[woman 1] I'm not sure.
Either Tomi or Yoshi.
We can ask them whose duty it was.
Is something wrong?
Yes. Lady Makiko's hairpin
has disappeared.
[woman 1] You're kidding!
[older servant] You mean
Miss Kiyoko gave it to you?
- [Makiko] Yes yes, she did.
- [chirping]
When she found out how much
I loved her gorgeous amethyst hairpin,
she said it would look better on me
than it would on her.
- So she gave it to me.
- You got it? That's so unfair!
You two, quiet!
Why didn't you tell us?
Mmm Kiyoko said
to keep it a secret between just us.
She said she felt bad
about the kimono being torn apart.
Oh!
- [Yoshi] That hurts!
- [both] Oh?
- Let go of me! I did nothing wrong!
- [growls]
[Yoshi gasps and sobs]
[man] She was prancing around like a crow
with a shiny treasure between its beak.
- So I dragged her here.
- What's all this about?
[man] Here. This is it, right?
- [both gasp]
- You have my hairpin!
- Gah!
- [man] Huh.
[whimpers]
[grunts]
- How dare you? Dirty little pickpocket!
- [Yoshi squeals]
- You sullied the gilt with filthy hands!
- [slapping]
Please stop! I found it in the garden
and thought it was pretty!
I didn't know it was stolen!
- Please believe me!
- You're a liar!
[Tsuruko] Makiko!
- That's quite enough of that!
- [Makiko growls]
[Tsuruko] I won't stand for
you tarnishing my husband's good name.
[Yoshi sobbing]
I cannot have a thief working here.
Everything between these four walls
belongs to my husband,
down to the smallest stones.
You are to leave this house
right this instant!
[sobbing]
[Sawako] I'm so jealous.
You get all the nice things.
That's just too bad, isn't it?
Ugh! I can't stand you.
[man] What Yoshi did was wrong,
but those two sisters are just as bad.
Acting like feral territorial animals.
All they do is take, take, take.
It must have been their upbringing.
[all gasp]
[Makiko scoffs]
[foreboding music playing]
[sighs] Hmm.
Mm.
[trembling]
[gasps]
Please forgive me! I'm terribly sorry!
- Go get her another.
- [butler sighs] Right away, sir.
What's wrong with you all today?
You're all acting strange.
Hmm?
It's nothing, my Lady.
[Makiko] If there's something
you want to say, then out with it!
Huh?
Don't play coy.
We can see your hands trembling from fear.
- I told you to spit it out!
- Makiko!
[Sawako] She's right!
You treat us like we're nothing but fools.
You call us unrefined and gossip about us.
[Otawara] Please settle down.
All of you, is that true?
- It's not, my Lord!
- [Makiko scoffs]
I'm terribly sorry, my dear Makiko.
Mmm? [grunts]
Your lives would be significantly harder
if we lost our servants.
Be sure to treat them
with the respect they deserve.
[sisters gasp]
Well, what do you two have to say?
- [Kiyoko] My dear Makiko.
- Mm?
Here. You can use this
to clean yourself off.
Would you please forgive the servants,
for my sake?
Please?
[Makiko grunts]
[panting]
[scoffs]
[Sawako] You won't wear it anymore?
Mm.
It's just too heavy.
[Sawako] I bet the servants
all hate us, don't they?
[Makiko] That's for sure.
And since they're only ever going to see
us as the children of a lowly commoner,
then it's no surprise they'd have no
problem stealing a hairpin or two from us.
I suppose, but what a fool that girl was.
Of all the hairpins,
why steal the one Kiyoko
What, Makiko?
- Say, does any of this seem odd to you?
- [Sawako] Hmm?
[Makiko] Even a poor girl like her,
she'd be able to tell
how expensive that hairpin was.
So why would she
be flaunting it like that?
[Sawako gasps] She may as well have
declared from the rooftops
that she stole it.
Do you think it's possible
someone might be trying to disgrace us?
But who in the world
would do that, Makiko?
Even I didn't know
Kiyoko gave you that hairpin,
so how would anyone else know?
- [rattle]
- [both gasp]
[sisters, in unison] Kiyoko!
[trembling] I, um I was just
You were just spying on us.
Hold on. Don't tell me
it was you behind all of this!
I don't understand what you're saying
Stop it. You're the one who gave me
that hairpin in the first place.
You knew what you were doing.
What are you talking about?
You're scaring me! [whimpers]
[both sigh]
- [clattering]
- [Kiyoko screams]
[both gasp]
[butler] Lady Kiyoko!
Lady Kiyoko! Lady Kiyoko!
[whimpers]
Are you hurt, Lady Kiyoko?
Lady Kiyoko! Lady Kiyoko!
You're saying she fell on her own?
[both] Mmm.
[butler] According to
what Lady Kiyoko told me,
when she went upstairs to console
her sisters after the dinner incident,
she noticed that
they were both acting rather strangely.
[sisters gasp and sigh]
She said, when she ran from the room,
one of the two sisters
suddenly reached for her,
which caused her to lose her balance
and fall down the stairs.
- [Sawako] That's not what happened!
- [Otawara] Are you saying Kiyoko is lying?
A small quarrel, as sisters do,
but that's all it was.
We didn't touch her!
So now,
you're insulting my daughter as well?
[both gasp]
[Otawara sighs]
Although we are not blood,
I have done my very best
to make sure you feel like you're family
while in this home.
- However, all of that ends today.
- No, please!
- Papa!
- [Tsuruko and sisters gasp]
- [Otawara] Kiyoko!
- [servant] Oh!
[Kiyoko whimpers]
[Otawara] Kiyoko!
Don't blame them.
I think they were only trying to help
keep me from falling down the stairs.
But I wasn't in my right mind then,
and I guess I must've gotten startled.
It was just bad timing
that her hand struck me when it did.
[both gasp]
So please, don't punish her
because I fell down the stairs!
It it was all my fault!
Please, my Lord. Despite my protests,
Lady Kiyoko insisted we come here
to defend her sisters,
though she really should
be in bed resting her ankle.
Kiyoko.
Do you wish to forgive your sisters?
Of course I forgive them, Papa.
- [whimpers]
- [gasps]
Mmm!
Because that's what you do
when you're a family.
Papa, nothing could ever
separate me from my beloved sisters.
Please, don't punish them on my behalf.
[both gasp]
[Kiyoko] Makiko, wait!
I have the best present
in the world for you!
Oh my
[Kiyoko] I'm sure
they will look perfect on you!
And I thought, "This is
probably too plain for Sawako."
Huh? Kiyoko! What are you wearing?
Aah! Do you like it? I decided I mustn't
get out of line in front of my sisters,
so I'm dressed like a servant.
So from now on, think of me
as your humble maidservant,
and ask me for anything at all.
[Kiyoko] My dear sisters!
I'm sure they will look perfect on you.
- [Kiyoko 1] maidservant and ask
- [Kiyoko 2] Dear Makiko! My dear Sawako!
That's what you do when you're a family.
[Kiyoko] Nothing can separate me
from my sisters.
Dear sisters. My dear Makiko!
My dear Sawako!
I'd do anything to be with you.
[servant girl sighs]
The older sisters have become even more
demanding with us these past few weeks.
It's unbearable.
And they've dragged
poor Lady Kiyoko into it.
She's doing everything she can
to appease their wishes.
- Then why don't you go and tell Kiyoko?
- [gasps]
Why not just tell her that you don't want
our commoner family around here?
In fact, while you're at it,
tell her to just kick us out!
- We would never do that, of course!
- Please forgive our gossip, my lady.
Cut the act. I didn't ask for an apology!
- [Kiyoko] What's the matter, Makiko?
- [gasps and sighs]
[Kiyoko] Oh no.
Did I do something to upset you again?
Please don't take it out on them.
It was all my fault, I'm sorry!
[whimpering]
[seethes]
- [Otawara] Kiyoko?
- [gasps]
What are you doing in here?
[Makiko grunts]
- [whimpers]
- [Otawara] Wait a minute!
Oh! Kiyoko, did she do something to you?
Don't you worry about me, Papa.
I'm all right.
Hmm. I've had quite enough
of them and their little antics.
It was probably a mistake to let them
into this house in the first place.
JAPANESE PASSPOR
MAKIKO OTAWARA
[somber music playing]
[birdsong]
[Tsuruko] Kiyoko laid a trap for you?
That's right! That little brat's
been playing us all along.
Ugh, this is so ridiculous.
You both have let
your imaginations run away with you.
Please listen to us, Mother!
You're wrong, there's something off
about that girl. She's creepy!
[Tsuruko] I've had enough
of your mischief!
Honestly, what if your stepfather
heard you say any of this?
Let him hear!
Do you really think he would kick us out,
Mother? Of course he wouldn't!
She'll just apologize with tears
and manipulate him to think we're some
unscrupulous and diabolical masterminds.
Let me ask you this.
Just what benefit would Kiyoko gain
from playing these games?
[both] Mmm?
[Tsuruko] It's clear she wants
to look good in the eyes of others.
- I've gathered that much about her.
- [Makiko grunts]
[Tsuruko] With that said,
why would she cater to her stepsisters
and act like a maid to achieve that goal?
- No normal person would go that far.
- [lively jazz playing]
[Makiko] Well, Kiyoko isn't normal!
For some childish reason,
you despise Kiyoko. That's evident.
- We don't!
- Wait! Listen to us, Mother!
[Tsuruko] Enough of this.
You're giving me a headache.
[both sigh]
[door closes]
Ugh.
[knocking at door]
[sighs]
What is it now? Oh
If I may say so,
you don't look so well, madam.
I'm all right. I have quite a bit
weighing on my mind is all.
Ugh. It's unbelievable.
Depressing, really.
[Kiyoko] I sense
that something is troubling you.
Well, if there is any way
I can be of service to you,
please let me know, my madam.
[door opens]
[upbeat jazz playing]
- Wh "Madam"?
- [door closes]
[gasps]
[Kiyoko, in low voice]
Your father was in an accident?
[Kiyoko] Yes, he's dead now.
- [Kiyoko, low voice] How terribly sad.
- [Kiyoko, normal voice] How come?
[low voice] It's sad
when a person dies suddenly.
[normal voice] Is that right?
Then why do I feel so good?
- [lively jazz playing]
- [low voice] You feel good?
- Kiyoko? Why are you dressed like that?
- [gasps]
I'm celebrating!
Now nothing can get in the way
of us sisters becoming closer than ever!
[giggles]
[bird chirping]
[whimpers softly]
[gentle chamber music playing]
Mmm.
[elegant chamber music playing]
OTAWARA
FIVE YEARS LATER
Makiko, how has
Mother's health been doing lately?
Why on earth are you asking me that?
[Sawako] Well, how is she?
This morning, she developed a mild fever.
That's troubling.
[Kiyoko] My lady wishes she could be here,
but is concerned
about giving you two her cold.
I see.
I'm leaving.
Have them bring the car around for me.
[Kiyoko] Certainly.
[sighs heavily] Always so restless.
[Kiyoko] Lady Makiko?
What is it?
If anything is not to your liking, milady,
please do feel free to let me know.
[scoffs] To my liking?
Oh, please. You don't need to ask me that.
You know perfectly well
that things are not to my liking.
[whimpers]
[servant girl] Those two girls have
completely taken over this house now.
I'll never understand
why Lady Kiyoko lets them.
Well, could they possibly
have some kind of dirt on her?
How could they?
There is no one with a kinder
or purer heart than Lady Kiyoko.
What could they possibly have against her?
Pardon the interruption.
It is time for your medicine, madam.
[somber music playing]
How are you feeling today?
Same as always. [coughs]
Where are my girls?
They have both
gone out for the day, madam.
I see.
[Kiyoko] Here you are.
That tea is bitter,
and has such a foul smell to it.
Well, I apologize for the taste.
They all say medicine only works
when it's bitter.
Mm.
[Kiyoko] Is this how it feels
to be truly happy?
Huh?
It's just that ever since my father died
in that accident,
every day has been so much more fun.
I hope this feeling continues forever.
[rain pouring]
- [thunder rumbling]
- [sisters panting]
[both gasp]
[thunderclap]
Sisters, are you really
going to abandon our mother?
- [Makiko grunts]
- [Sawako gasps]
Please don't go!
[voice overlapping]
I'll do anything you ask!
[giggles]
[Kiyoko] Now they're all here with me.
And they let me do whatever I want.
Whatever I want.
Uh?
You're right. It's frightening.
Who knows
when this happiness will disappear?
Happiness is a truly fragile thing,
don't you think?
[birdsong]
MRS. TSURUKO OTAWARA AND HER DAUGHTERS
[Tsuruko] Count Ichijo?
Yes. He is hosting
an extravagant ball next month,
and he has invited all of us to attend.
He's a count, so it's safe to assume
he's a man of great standing.
Yes.
Count Masateru is a great man.
And his heir, Masataka,
graduated from Imperial University
and is an officer in the navy.
He is renowned
for his wonderful personality.
Kiyoko, aren't you going to attend?
[gasps]
I would never think of it, madam.
Someone like me doesn't belong at a ball.
You don't need to be worried
about me, if that's what it is.
Madam
I'm sure my daughters will want to attend.
Make sure they don't offend anyone.
Certainly.
So he's a count, you say?
I will call for new gowns
to be made for you both!
They must be more beautiful
and extravagant than anyone else's!
There's no time to dillydally.
I must place an order immediately.
[door closes]
Just what is she scheming now?
Now, how on Earth would I know that?
Yeah, good point. How would you know?
Wait Interesting.
It looks like the count's heir will also
be searching for a bride at this ball.
My, how refined.
[yelps]
- What was that for?
- [Makiko] Hold on.
[gasps] This could finally be our chance!
Our chance? For what? [gasps]
[intriguing music playing]
[doll] Things have taken
an interesting turn.
[Kiyoko giggles]
[lively chamber music playing]
[Sawako] I've had it!
None of these dresses are flattering!
Is this all you have?
What about those nice pearls over there?
Well, those pearl earrings
are madam's fav [gasps]
- [Makiko] "Madam"?
- [whimpers]
[Makiko] You still see her
as the head of this house?
And what about our mother?
She's actually alive!
- I'm so sorry. I
- Do you see her as some kind of imposter?
- [servant girl] No, not at all.
- [glass crunches]
[both gasp]
They were only cheap trinkets.
My dear sisters should be adorned
with only the most beautiful jewelry
we have to offer.
Yes. I think Kiyoko just
might have the right idea.
Mmm. She does. These are perfect.
- [door closes]
- [horse neighs]
Makiko
It'll be just fine.
[Makiko] Wait. This could be our chance!
Our chance? For what? [gasps]
You're saying
that if Mr. Ichijo chooses one of us
After all, he is the son of a count.
No woman in her right mind
would complain about that.
We'd be free for good!
We could finally escape Kiyoko!
And take Mother with us!
Hmm.
If we're able
to capture the count's attention,
we will finally be free from all this!
[both gasp]
- [murmur of voices]
- [solemn chamber music playing]
[horses neighing]
[door creaks]
[horse neighs]
[whispering]
[man 1] Look.
It's the Viscount Otawara's girls.
[woman 1] Those are just
the stepdaughters.
[woman 2]
Clothes can make anyone look good.
[yelps]
[guests whispering and laughing]
- Mm.
- [Makiko gasps]
- [man 2] Here you are.
- Um
Oh! Thank you, kind stranger!
I am Masataka Ichijo.
And who might you be?
I I am Sawako Otawara, sir.
And this here
is my beautiful older sister, Makiko.
Welcome, and thank you for coming.
Now please, come in.
[both chuckle]
[coughing]
[Kiyoko] Your daughters have left.
They were very eager
to attend the ball tonight.
I can hardly wait myself.
Those two are such vulgar, boorish tramps.
They could never have been fit
to be the daughters of a viscount.
I can hardly wait to see
how they will behave themselves.
[Tsuruko] Why, you
- How dare you? What are you planning?
- [pouring liquid]
[cup clinks]
[murmur of voices]
Uh
[laughs]
- Wow, you can certainly hold your liquor.
- Oh?
What, you're not attracted
to a woman who can hold her own?
Men and women are equal
in this world, you know.
I concur. I'm all for equality.
- [man] Masataka, sir.
- Uh
- Pardon me.
- Oh!
[gasps]
Give me another!
Stop drinking so much.
Why? What's the matter with it?
We're at a ball,
and there's an open bar! Mmm!
[sighs]
- [ripple of laughter]
- [gasps]
[Sawako] Oh?
- [Makiko grunts]
- What's wrong?
[panting]
[excited murmuring]
[lively chamber music playing]
[woman] Beautiful
[Makiko gasps]
- [inaudible]
- [guests murmuring and giggling]
[gasps]
Kiyoko
[gasps]
My dear Makiko!
Please, forgive me!
After seeing the two of you off earlier,
I just couldn't keep myself
from coming to the ball with you.
All I had was this pathetic dress
from 20 years ago,
but it was my late mother's dress.
I wanted to wear it so my mother and I
could attend a radiant ball together
at least once in my life. [gasps]
So, please, forgive me, dear sister!
[splutters] Why, you
[Sawako] Give me a break!
- You have some nerve!
- [both gasp]
Sawako
You act all innocent
to hide what a terrible person you are!
You're a monster!
It appears you've had
more than enough to drink tonight.
- [Makiko] Mr. Ichijo
- [Sawako grunts]
No need to worry yourselves!
I'll take care of Lady Kiyoko.
- You two may go.
- [Sawako] Uh
[gasps] Hey! Let go!
You must be enjoying this!
How dare you disgrace my sister
in front of everyone?
[grunts] Kiyoko!
I hope you're proud
of your vicious little scheme!
[screeches] You godless fiend!
- She's quite rude.
- I must go. I need to return home!
- Uh
- They both are so upset with me! [wails]
You don't need to be afraid anymore.
You're safe here.
Lady Kiyoko, may I ask for a dance?
I find music and dancing
is the best way to calm your nerves.
[Kiyoko] Hmm
Hmm! Yes.
[guests gasping]
[man] They make such a lovely couple.
[woman 1] Like out of a fairy tale.
So enchanting.
[woman 2] They look so lovely, don't they?
After the sudden death
of Viscount Otawara,
we lost communication with your household.
I would like
to reestablish that connection.
This may come across as impertinent,
but your stepsisters
They're a little odd, don't you think?
Please don't say that about them.
My sisters don't have
any ill will towards me.
Kiyoko
[lively music playing]
PASSPOR
[Kiyoko] To think he was planning
to send them abroad to study.
Such an imprudent decision.
That's right.
Why doesn't he understand
what I'm trying to do?
Oh, my dear Father.
If only he hadn't meddled,
he could've lived on forever
as one of my favorite toys to play with.
I don't want a toy like him anymore.
[Tsuruko] But I thought
you saw us as a family?
Yes, madam.
To me, you are an irreplaceable family.
As well as my prized doll collection.
Kiyoko! [gasps]
[coughing]
You've lasted a long time.
You're very tough.
- But
- [gasps]
I don't need any broken dolls.
[music intensifies]
[music stops]
[celebratory laughter, chattering]
Mmm.
- You seem happy.
- [Kiyoko] Hmm?
[Masataka] I can see it on your face.
Hmm.
- [laughter and applause fade]
- I am. I'm having an excellent time.
[Masataka] Please, don't go!
Are you leaving already?
Have I done something to offend you?
Not at all.
When will I see you? Please, Lady Kiyoko.
Sadly we will never meet again.
[gasps]
- [carriage door opens]
- [sighs]
[door shuts]
[horses neighing]
- [clinking]
- Uh Oh.
[sisters screaming]
Please wake up! Please, Mother!
This can't be real! Open your eyes!
- [Sawako sobbing]
- You come here!
- How could you! What did you do to her?
- [gasps]
My Lady Makiko!
I know it was you, Kiyoko!
- You killed our mother!
- [Kiyoko squeals]
- [panting]
- Lady Makiko!
[Makiko] You never letting us see Mother
was all part of your scheme, wasn't it?
Mama, I'm sorry. We wanted to visit,
but were terrified she would hurt you
if we tried to defy her. [sobs]
[older servant] Oh, my lady,
that's utterly ridiculous.
Not one of you ever even questioned
what was happening here!
[Makiko struggling]
All I know is your mother
has been suffering for a very long time.
But she's finally found her eternal rest.
She didn't die from her illness!
This is all her fault.
I won't stand for this!
I certainly understand them
being blinded by their grief
But then to blame Lady Kiyoko
for madam's death is absolutely absurd.
It really is awful.
I suppose I never really understood
what it was
my two sisters desired from me.
I think I will brew them some of the tea
with the medicine that Madam drank.
It has a calming effect
and quiets the mind.
From now on, I must dedicate myself
to serving them as best as I can.
I must be even more diligent.
[older servant] Lady Kiyoko
[clattering]
Since I am the eldest daughter,
the title of master of the household
has been bequeathed to me.
This upon the untimely deaths
of the late viscount and his wife.
While the grief of my late mother's
passing still hangs heavy over this house,
I find it incredibly rude,
even for the son of a count,
to come here inquiring about Kiyoko.
All due respect, but Kiyoko is
the only blood heir of the late viscount.
Yes, well, Kiyoko put me in charge.
Everyone is aware
of how you terrorized that poor girl,
and forced her to act
as your personal handmaid
instead of treating her
like she was your sister.
That was also Kiyoko's wish.
I am not ashamed to have obliged.
This is going nowhere!
Excuse me?
- [Kiyoko screams]
- [both gasp]
- [men grunting]
- [Sawako] You dirty little tramp!
- Caught you red-handed!
- Please forgive me, dear Sawako!
- [struggling continues]
- Lady Kiyoko!
- [gasps] Lord Masataka!
- [butler grunts]
- Lord Masataka! Uh
- Lady Kiyoko!
Oh, Lord Ichijo
You're safe.
- Lady Kiyoko is coming with me!
- Mmm!
Fine, do as you wish.
But this house belongs
to me and my sister.
[Masataka] You have absolutely
no legal right to this household.
All of it was passed down to Lady Kiyoko.
[gasps]
[growls]
- [both gasping]
- [Sawako] No!
Let us in! Listen to me!
I'll never forgive you!
Open up! I said open it!
[Makiko] That's enough, Sawako.
Huh?
[gasps]
[sobbing]
[wistful music playing]
[Makiko] We did it. We're finally free.
[Sawako sobbing]
- [creaking]
- [Kiyoko giggles]
[doll] Those two ran off, or so it seems.
[Kiyoko] They managed to outwit me.
They were a disgrace at the ball
and treated the servants harshly.
They put on a good show, but it was
all an act so I'd marry the count's son.
[doll] Clearly the daughters of a geisha.
They even managed to raise the ire
of the Count's son in the end.
It's such a shame.
But they kept us entertained.
Far longer than anyone else ever did.
[laughs]
Speak for yourself.
Entertained? Hardly.
How can you say that? Come now,
we've enjoyed playing this game together.
- [doll] Is that so?
- Of course.
So, then. What will you do?
- What do you mean?
- What will be the next game you play?
My next game? I don't know.
- [rustling]
- Hmm?
Hmm?
[Masataka] You couldn't sleep?
Mmm. No.
- I just had something on my mind.
- [lively jazz playing]
[Masataka] What was it?
[Kiyoko] Oh just thinking about
the fun I'm going to have.
Uh
Oh
- [chuckles]
- Hmm!
[doll] Yes.
We're going to have so much fun.
[giggles]
[lively jazz continues]
[music stops]