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Fusé: Memoirs of a Huntress (2012) - Moxie (OCR'd PGS) vs Kulot (Karoshi edit)
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Moxie (OCR'd PGS)
Kulot (Karoshi edit)
Fate.
"Inga."
Cause and
E
ffect.
Cause and
e
ffect.
The Cause begins a story,
and
the
Effect
end
s it.
"In" is the start of things,
When the two come together,
a story
is formed
.
and
"ga" is
the
ir
end
.
A
hunt
ress
and a white
dog.
It takes both to form
a story
.
The
ir encounter is
th
is story's
beginning
.
In other words, the
Cause.
A
female
hunt
er
and a white
male
dog.
The
young hunt
ress
knew
al
most
everything about the mountains.
..
The
meeting of
th
ese two forms the
beginning
of this story.
The
hardness
of the
soil, shifts of
the wind
, and
the
trails of each
beast
.
In other words, the
"in".
H
er
g
randfather
taught her everything
.
That
young hunt
er
knew
most
ly
everything about the mountains.
They say
there's
an invisible
thread between hunter and quarry.
The
firmness
of the
earth, when
the wind
would cease,
As
that
thread stretches and becomes taut
,
the
paths the
beast
took.
a
rare connection
is
formed between
their hearts
.
She learned all these from h
er
G
randfather
.
They say
that a hunter and her prey are connected by
an invisible
string.
The moment
that
string is tightened
,
a
strange bond
is
born in
their hearts
, making them long to be connected
.
Connected.
Connected.
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The girl's name was O
h
yama Hamaji.
The girl's name was O
o
yama Hamaji.
She knew everything about the
se
mountains.
She knew everything about the
mountains.
..
But
the mountains were all she knew.
However,
the mountains were all she knew.
Y
our favorite
today
, Grandpa
. Dog stew.
Today's y
our favorite
, dog stew. You happy
, Grandpa
?
Happy
?
I seasoned it
how I like it,
with
ou
t much miso,
so you might find it
a
little lacking.
I seasoned it
to my own taste
with
no
t much miso,
though,
Thanks for the food.
so you might find it
little lacking.
Hamaji's
g
randfather was
killed and
eaten by a bear
in the fall
.
Time to eat!
Hamaji's
G
randfather was
eaten by a bear
this past autumn
.
I can't eat all this...
I can't eat all this...
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What's the matter,
my dear Hamaji?
What's the matter,
Hamaji, dear?
Head Priest!
Temple Master...
Come now, cease the
crying.
Ohh, come now, stop
crying.
A letter
from Edo
.
A letter
arrived
from Edo
for you
.
"
Hamaji
, your brother, Dousetsu,
will take care of you,
so come out to Edo."
"
To
Hamaji
. I
will take care of you,
"Being happy from now on will be our way of sending that shitty geezer off."
so come to Edo.
"I'll be waiting for you."
Finding new happiness for yourself is the best way to lay the old man to rest.
"Postscript. Head Priest, ready a few ni
bu coins for my darling sister...
"
Waiting for ya. Your bro, Dousetsu.
"...
to cover her travel expenses."
Postscript. "Temple Master, read a few 2-
bu coins for my darling sister...
Hm?
What
the heck...
?
to cover her travel expenses."
What
's that about
?
Here.
Here.
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No matter w
hat you do
, just follow
your heart.
W
hat you do
now is between you and
your heart.
I'll go! I'll go
see
my
brother
in Edo!
I'll go! I'll go
to
my
bro
in Edo!
Edo Castle
h
as
such strong roots.
It's
just like the
mountain
s
...
Edo Castle
looks
as
sturdy as an oak...
It
looks like the Tokugawa
e
ra
is full of peace and
safe
ty
.
It's
practically a
mountain
...
Well,
looks like the Tokugawa
E
ra
will be
safe
for now..
.
Umm, excuse me...
Umm, excuse me...
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I've only just come to Edo today, and
—
I've only just come to Edo today, and
...
Fish!
!
! Anyone
want some
fish?!
Fish!
! Anyone
for
fish?!
Flatfish
, yellowtail
s, sea robins...
All fresh
,
caught this morning!
Halibut
, yellowtail
, gurnard!
Um... Do you happen to know an Ohyama Dousetsu? He's m—
All fresh
and
caught this morning!
Vidro, vidro glass!
Umm.. I don't suppose you know an Ooyama Dousetsu, he's my brother and I―
Hold 'em up to the sun and conjure up an instant rainbow w
orld!
Biidoro! I've got Biidoro!
Vidro, vidro glass!
Hang them in the Sun,
In order to
get to the place
written
on this lett
—
and conjure an instant Rainbow W
orld!
Make way!
Make way!
Biidoro!
Wanna eat
some
preserved clam?!
How do I
get to the place
on this lett
―
Let 'em in
or keep 'em out? That'
ll decide the future of Edo.
Make way!
!
Make way!
!
T
he Fukagawa Troupe
's Princess Fusé
, right?
D'ja want
some
simmered asari?
Did you see him?
I felt such a twinge in my
heart
!
Open up
or keep 'em out? That'
s what'
ll decide the future of Edo.
What the
hell
are
ya doing
?
Princess Fuse is in t
he Fukagawa Troupe
, right?
!
Owww
...
Did you see him?
! My
heart
was wrenching
!
Who
's...
What the
heck
are
you doin', girl
?
...quarry
is
this?
Owww
w
...
Why is there only a head there?!
Who
se prey
is
that?!
They're decapitated as a warning.
W-
Why is there only a head there?!
Did you perhaps wet yourself in fear?
For show.
Wrong! I'm a hunter. I'm used to seeing things like this.
Pissed yourself in a fight or something?
But this one was still a pup!
No! I'm a hunter!
Did ya hear that, y'all?
I'm used to this!
This
country
bumpkin's
feelin
' bad
for a
pup.
But I mean... this one was still a cub!
Wrong
!
Y'hear that?
This
bumpkin's
got
feelin
gs
for a
damn dog!
I do not
!
Don't laugh at me!
Don't laugh at me!
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Allow me to
give
you
the
detail
s
.
I'll
give
ya
the
gory
detail
.
These
guys
are
hybrids of
human
and
dog.
These
things
are
half-
human
, half-
dog.
All
eight of
th
em showed up in Edo
early this fall..
.
Start of this fall,
eight of
'
em showed up in Edo
.
They
're an inhumane group that
go
es
around killing people night after night.
They
go
around killing people night after night.
R
ich,
poor,
criminal informer
, and samurai
. E
ven
women and
kids
aren
't
an exception
.
They're evil and morally bankrupt.
They
run
fast
and jump so high
that
there's no hope of catching 'em.
The r
ich,
the
poor,
police
, and samurai
,
Since t
hey
have the bodies and
mind
s of beasts,
they
became feared as Fusé
.
e
ven
kids
ain
't
beyond 'em
.
They
're disguised as
humans,
so
the authorities
were
having a hell of a hard time.
They
're
fast
runners
and jump so high
there's no hope of catching 'em.
Tormented by anxiety, the
s
hogun,
Sir Iesada
Tokugawa
, issued a
Fusé
hunting decree.
T
hey
're beast in
mind
and body, so
they
're called "fuse."
He also attached an awful lot of bounty money
to
it
.
Everyone's terrified of 'em
.
Even
unemployed s
amurai
sharpened
their rusty swords,
They
look just like
humans,
and started
to
roam
around
town
with entitlement
.
so
even
the authorities
are
having a hell of a hard time.
And so
,
the
Fusé
were hunted down
one after another...
So.
Tormented by anxiety, the
S
hogun,
Tokugawa
Iesada
, issued a
fuse
hunting decree.
And it was
this very
day that a
Fusé
was found trying to sneak into Yosh
i
wara,
It's got a hefty reward attached,
to
o
.
and I, Makuwari, claimed its head!
A job well done!
Even
the jobless S
amurai
polished
their rusty swords,
T
here's
just
two left!
and started
roam
ing all over
town
.
C
'mon
take a
looong
look,
bumpkin.
And so
! One by one
the
fuse
were hunted down
,
T
hat head
i
s so freshly cut
that
the
heat
is st
ill st
eaming off it...
And it was
just to
day that a
fuse
was found trying to sneak into Yosh
o
wara,
Knew she'd
wet
herself
.
and I, Makuwari, claimed its head!
I gotta
find his place
before the sun sets...
Now t
here's
only
two left!
C
ome on,
take a
good
look,
kid...
Look at t
hat head
. It'
s so freshly cut
,
the
warmth
is st
r
eaming off it...
Knew she'd
piss
herself
!
I gotta
start looking for my bro's house
before the sun sets...
Our job's done for now.
Our job's done for now.
Man, I could use a bath.
Man, I could use a bath.
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You
sure
look like you're doing
well
, mister
.
You
look like you're doing
pretty
well
for yourself
.
Off to
gamble on
dice with your reward?
Off to
play
dice with your reward?
Wh-
Who the hell are you?!
Who the hell are you?!
Dammit, h
old it right there!
H
old it right there!
!
What
are ya doing?! T
hat hurt!
What
's he think he's playing at, t
hat hurt!
He
ran
that way!
He
went
that way!
Go
a
round, go
a
round!
Go
round, go
round!
Whoa there! Not
having fun
, are
we? P
lay
with me
a little
more
.
Whoa there! Not
very friendly
, are
ya? Come on, let's p
lay
a little
longer
.
You got some nerve
doin' that to my
bro
's eye
.
You got some nerve
,
doin' that to my
buddy
's eye
here.
Crush
that mask
...along with
his
head
!
Break
that mask
and the rest of
his
face as well!
!
Sorry
buddy
, for some reason, my
throat is so damn parched today...!
Sorry
,
buddy
...
An out-of-season winter cherry.
..
My
throat is so damn parched today...!
I
can't survive without
it.
An out-of-season winter cherry.
That means
you're
...
!
I
have no use for
it.
Let's just
part ways
here
.
Wait,
you're
―
!
I
'
m not feeling
very kind
today.
Let's just
leave it
here
, bud
.
Dammit
!
I
a
m not feeling
nice
today.
I
t showed up
!
Damn you...
!
Guys, split into two
. T
rap
it
on Ryo
goku Bridge!
I
found one
!
Roger
!
Guys, split into two
teams,
t
rap
him
on Ryo
u
goku Bridge!
Got it
!
Owww...
Owww...
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That
face
!
I got a nice
,
long look at it.
Your
face
.
I got a nice
long look at it.
He's here! Get him!
He's here! Get him!
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Sorry,
I'm going to
borrow this
for
a sec.
Sorry,
just gonna
borrow this
a sec.
Move it
, boy!
Outta the way
, boy!
Boy?
Boy?
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Just give up already!
Time you stopped running!
Let me
see your face
,
too.
I wanna
see your face
too.
L
adies
dislike incessant men like
...
Persistent man. You know the l
adies
hate that
...
?
!
You!
Hey! Give
it
back!
Whoops
!
Hold
up!
Hey! Give
that
back!
That's mine!
Hold
it!
That's mine!
End of the road.
You have no place to run!
I'll cut you to
shreds!
I'll cut you to
ribbons!
Never
mind.
Changed my
mind.
I won't let you—!
Fat chance!
Just g
ive it up already.
G
ive it up already.
Or else
, you'll
end up losing
your other eye as well.
If you don't
, you'll
lose
your other eye as well.
You bastard, who
are you?
!
What the hell
are you?
Let's sip
some cheap tea
and have a long talk, shall we
?!
Why don't we discuss it over
some cheap tea
?!
Didn't I tell
you
already
that I'm not feeling
kind
today
?
I did warn
you
that I'm not feeling
nice
today
...
P
eople like you
...
What p
eople like you
need
...
...deserve to live life in
pitch
dar
kness
where
even
the
moon
doesn't rise.
is
pitch
blac
kness
without
even
a
moon
to spend the rest of your lives in...
H-
Help me...
Help me...
Just kidding.
Just kidding.
Geronimo!
Geronimo!
Here.
Here.
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So, t
hat
's
for
fireworks?
T
hat
for
launching
fireworks?
Wrong...
No.
It's a gun.
It's a gun.
A g
un?
That
weird shape
threw me off.
..
G
un?
The
weird shape
totally
threw me off.
Well, w
hatever.
Thanks, boy.
W
hatever.
No
. I'm a girl.
Thanks, boy.
I
'm
a girl.
Wrong
. I'm a girl.
Ah,
that's why
...
that's why
your cheeks
are red
.
I
am...
a girl.
No
! T
hat's
frostbite
!
Ah,
n-no wonder
...
There
! that
's th
em, there!
No wonder...
your cheeks
—
are red
!
Stay where you
ar
e
! Turn yourselves in!
No
, t
hat's
from
frostbite
.
"That's
the
m?"
There
they are! It
's th
ose two!
Y
ou and me
, I expect!
You're under
ar
rest
! Turn yourselves in!
F
or now
, I guess we've just gotta
run!
D-Did
the
y say..."those two"?
Let me go
!
Obviously, meaning y
ou and me
.
Dam
n
it!
Guess the only thing we can do f
or now
...is
run!
Is
the
guy in the river still alive?!
Let me go
oo
!
Dam
m
it!
Is
that
guy in the river still alive?!
Yeah, but he's out cold!
Yeah, but he's out cold!
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So you just
arrived in
Edo today
to look for
your brother.
..
So you just
came to
Edo today
, in search of
your brother.
Yeah...
Yep, but I didn't think
Edo
was
so
big
and
busy.
But...I never expected
Edo
to be
so
huge
and
full of people.
Pass
it
here
.
Let me see
it
.
No
!
You'
ll
just
mess with it
again.
No
way.
You'
re
just
going to treat it roughly
again.
.
Not
the
gun.
..
Not
your
gun.
The letter, the letter.
The letter, the letter.
The heck? It
's got his address right here
.
Huh... it
's got his address right here
!
I...
can't read.
I
can't read.
..
It says
here, "R
iverside
Tenements
by Kozakura Bridge.
"
It says
it's at the r
iverside
houses
by Kozakura Bridge.
Be happy
, Hunter Girl
, it
's right nearby.
Good news
, Hunter Girl
.
Your white hair is
shiny.
..
It
's right nearby.
I've found your brother
so now
you're sucking up to me?
Your white hair is
all
shiny.
It s
ets my teeth on edge.
So now
I've found your brother
you're sucking up to me?
You're wrong
...
S
ets my teeth on edge.
It's
just
that
...
your fur
...
No
...
I
just
thought
...
how sleek it is, it's
...
Y
ou
don't think I'm
...
unsettling?
Don't y
ou
feel uncomfortable around me
...
?
...
It's pretty.
It's pretty.
You're a strange one
...
You're a strange one
, aren't you?
See, it's over there
.
Go on... that way
.
I want
some
...
dried persimmons
...
I want
... I want those
...
Oysters
...
Dammit.
Son of a...
Brother...
?
Bro
?
Dousetsu
, my brother!
Dousetsu
nii-chan!!
Brother!
Nii-chan!
I-ls that you, Hamaji...?
Hamaji?!
That's right! I came f
rom the mountains!
Yep! I came! F
rom the mountains!
I see...
You did... Hamaji... You came...!
Hamaji...
Nii-chan!
So you are h—
You okay?!
Brother!
...C
old
...
Are you all right?!
One, two...
So c
old
—
Hamaji,
is it
really
you?!
Ready?
One, two...
I'm
so sorry!
Hamaji,
you're
really
Hamaji, right?
Thank you
, thank you
for coming
..
.
I'm
sorry about everything!
Thank you
so much
for coming
all the way here
.
Thank
you
for the letter
!
Thank
s
for the letter
.
I was
really,
really happy
.
I was
really happy
!
If
you
wrote
back, I
could'
ve
gone
to get you
.
Why didn't
you
send one
back, I
'd ha
ve
come
to get you
!
Y
ou arrive
d
in Edo
today?
You must've been
lost.
Did y
ou arrive
in Edo
just
today?
I was fine! That guy
over there showed
me where to go
.
You must've been
a bit
lost.
..
...
Huh? Where'd he go?
I was fine! That guy
told
me where to go
!
Well, make yourself
feel
at home.
Huh? Where'd he go?
I-I
didn
't
know there were tiny places in Edo too..
.
Well, make yourself
at home.
It's a
little
dirty, but the
storage room
up top's yours to use as you want.
I-I
guess Edo isn
't
just all big buildings
.
It's
smaller
than
the house in the
mountain
s,
but just put up with it for now.
It's a
bit
dirty, but the
loft
up top's yours to use as you want.
It's
a lot tinier
than
your
mountain
lodge,
but just put up with it for now.
I'll have a big mansion built for ya before too long.
I'll have a big mansion built for ya before too long.
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Brother,
I
really
like this place!
Hey, Bro!
I
like this place!
Oh,
that's
good to hear
.
Ah, haha,
that's
great
.
Calm down a
little
, though.
Calm down a
bit
, though.
Gun.
Gun.
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Check.
I also
brought
bullets,
gunpowder, and the repair tools.
Check.
I also
have the
bullets,
the
gunpowder, and the repair tools.
Good.
Good.
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Also...
beans, bear gall
bladders, your favorite
dried mochi
,
Also...
Zomi
beans, bear gall
bladders, your favorite
,
dried mochi
...
and a boar
skin belly band.
and a boar
skin belly band.
Th-Thank
you..
.
Th-Thank
s
.
R-Right,
and
so
...
R-Right,
so
,
I've
hear
d
that
you
've grown
to
be a skilled
hunter
, despite being a woman.
I
hear
that
being born a girl hasn't stopped
you
developing in
to
a fine
hunter
.
Yeah
. Grandpa praised me
.
Nope
. Grandpa praised me
for it.
He s
aid I
'm a natural
.
S
aid I
have the knack
.
Why
would
you bring that
here?
Why
'd
you bring that
with you.
He
was
worr
ying
about you
the whole
time.
He
's been
worr
ied
about you
all this
time.
Don't ignore what I say.
Look, we were having a conversation.
P
ut your hands together
and pray
for him.
..
Just p
ut your hands together
for him.
Sorry
old man,
but I
'm definitely going to
becom
e
a samurai.
Sorry
,
old man,
I
've
finally found a
path
to
accomplish it
.
but I
am set on
becom
ing
a samurai.
A
path?
I
finally found a
way
to
get there
.
Damn right!
A
way?
In fact, the reason I called you to Edo
Sure!
In fact, the reason I called you to Edo
in the first place-
What? Dousetsu has a girl over?
!
What? Dousetsu has a girl over?
is to follow that pa—
That ain't good.
That ain't good.
Funamushi
's scary
when she's mad.
Funamushi
is not pretty
when she's mad.
Yeah, it was probably a girl.
Yeah, it was probably a girl.
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But
she's
only
yea
high.
That thing's still
a kid
.
But
still
only
about yay
high.
Gotta be
a kid
, right?
She was bigger than me.
She was bigger than me.
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You idiots
!
Oy
!
If you're gonna snoop, put some
more
effort into it and snoop properly!
If you're gonna snoop, put some
effort into it and snoop properly!
Why hello there. N
ice to meet
ya.
Good day, good day, n
ice to meet
you.
N
ame's Yoshirou.
Hope we can get along.
My n
ame's Yoshirou.
I'm Touta!
I saw you up
by the clothes
line...
Hope we can get along.
By the way, this thing i
s my son
.
I'm Touta!
H-
Hello there. I'm
Hamaji.
Thank
s
for
watching my bro—
I was just out
by the clothes
pole.
She's my
little sister.
He'
s my son
, incidentally
.
What?!
H-
Hi. M-My name's
Hamaji.
You two d
on't look alike
.
Thank
you
for
al―
My
little sister.
D
on't look alike
, do you
Not at all!
Not at all!
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Leave me be
.
Cut it out
.
M-My name's
...
Bansaku.
M-My name's
Bansaku.
We all live in these
run-down tenement
houses
.
We all live in these
beat-up row
houses
here.
That
one
over
the
re
is
the old boatman
,
Zanzou
's, place.
The
one
at
the
back
is
where
the old boatman
Zanzou
lives.
I'm sure he'll
be
coming
back soon.
He should
be
gettin'
back soon.
It's a
pretty remote
place,
but the
Ohkawa R
iver and Ryo
goku Bridge are nearby.
This place is
pretty remote
,
but the
main r
iver and Ryo
u
goku Bridge are nearby.
Fireworks!
Fireworks!
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That's right, there's also a summer fireworks display.
Yep, and we have firework shows in the summer!
I'm sure it'd be pretty fun to live with people like us.
I think you'll find we're a fun little playgroup to live with, too.
Why are you acting cutesy? You're creepy.
Playgroup? Grow up, man.
They're finally here.
Oh, here we go.
Man, my shoulders are stiff...
Ahh, my shoulders.
It's dinner time, you guys!
Guys! Grub's up!
Old man Zanzou rows so damn slow!
Geez, couldn't Zanzou row any faster?
So
hungry!
I'm
hungry!
Food
, f
ood
, f
ood
, f
ood
...
Food
F
ood
F
ood
F
ood
That
's Funamushi.
Her name
's Funamushi.
S
he goes around selling food
during the day
and
drops by here as a last stop.
By day s
he goes around selling food
from her boat,
You must be hungry
, right
?
and
she
drops by here as a last stop.
I
want
miso
glazed tofu,
sweet omelette
, and the
fried
radish with
the
most
sauce.
You must be hungry
?
I
'll have
miso
dengaku and a
sweet omelette
.
Also, deep
fried
daikon, really soaked in
the
sauce.
What's this?
What's this?
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Good
eye, Touta!
That's my new
est
creation, "
fluffed e
gg
and c
lam
bites
."
Nice
eye, Touta!
I'll have
that
!
That's my new
creation, "
Fluffy E
gg
C
lam
Parcels
."
I'll bring it over
. Just
go wait over there
.
I'll have
those
!
I'll bring it over
to you,
so
go wait over there
, okay?
Okay!
Okay!
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I'll have
abalone and gently simmered tofu
.
The
abalone and gently simmered tofu
for me.
Along
with
sake
, right?
You'll take sake
with
that
, right?
You
know
me so well.
The lady
know
s her food.
I'll have miso glazed tofu
and
fried
radish. A
nd
add
sake
to that.
Dengaku
and
the deep
fried
daikon a
nd
some
sake
.
You're
new
. Who're you?
Here's a
new
face.
My
little sister
,
Hamaji.
She's my
little sister
.
Hamaji.
L-L
ittle sister?
You have one?
S-Sister?! You had a l
ittle sister?
Did
I
not tell you
?
Did
n't
I
say
?
Where
're
you from?
Where
you from?
The mountains. Mutsu
p
rovince.
..
T-
The mountains. Mutsu
P
rovince.
Add in
the
sweet omelette
, too
.
Add in
a
sweet omelette
as well
.
When
'd
you get here?
When
d'
you get here?
I
arrived
...
this morning.
I
a-
arrived
this morning.
Le
ave
the talk
for later
, and j
ust
choose
something for
her to eat
.
S
ave
this
for later
!
Money
.
J
ust
throw her
something for
now
.
Ah
...
My t
ab?
Money
?
...
T
ab?
Nope.
Nope.
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Then...
I'll
make
installments.
..
Then...
I'll
pay in
installments.
I left th
e mountains about five years back, see...
I left th
os
e mountains about five years back, see...
So I haven
't seen my sister in a long time.
Hadn
't seen my sister in a long time.
It's been f
ive years
since
Ma died
... Around the time this little guy
was born.
F
ive years
back... that's when
Ma died
and shorty here
was born.
We've both changed a
whole
lot.
We've both changed a
lot.
I think
my brother
lost a little weight.
I think
Bro
lost a little weight.
But I
recognized
him right away!
But I
knew it was
him right away!
P
roof that Dousetsu
hasn't made any progress.
More p
roof that Dousetsu
never gets anywhere.
You seem to have mastered
stupidity
yourself through the years
.
Your
stupidity
doesn't look like it's going anywhere either
.
What are you planning to
pursue
tomorrow?
What are you planning to
do starting
tomorrow?
You know, work
.
You know, work
? "Those
who
don't
work,
don't
eat
?
"
"He
who
does not
work,
neither shall he
eat
.
"
When you live in Edo, everything costs
you
money.
When you live in Edo, everything costs
money.
Money, huh...
Money, huh...
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I'm a street vendor
.
I go
about
sellin
' trinkets
like bamboo-copters and paper balloons.
I'm a street vendor
,
I go
around
sellin
g stuff
like bamboo-copters and paper balloons.
W
anna work with me,
Hamaji?
You w
anna work with me,
lil'
Hamaji?
I'll
work
...
...tie for
work
hh
...
Leave her
be
! Starting tomorrow, she's gonna
earn
a
living
hunting in Edo with me.
Leave her
alone
! Starting tomorrow, she's gonna
be
earn
ing
living
by
hunting in Edo with me.
What?
Not confident in your skills
?
What?
ain't up to the job
?
As if! I have confidence in my hunting!
As if! I have confidence in my hunting!
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He said "hunting
in Edo
"...
Is
this guy
serious?
Hunting
in Edo
?
You just watch!
Is
he
serious?
I'll bag the biggest game you've ever seen!
You just watch!
I'll bag the biggest game you've ever seen!
Funamushi! One more bottle
to
fire
us
up
!
Funamushi! One more bottle
, let's get some
fire
in
us
lads
!
Bro, get under the covers properly!
Bro, get under the covers properly!
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Jeez, who are you,
my mom?
Whaddaya
my mom?
Did the
Head Priest
give you anything?
Did the
Temple Master
give you anything?
Like a f
ew
ni
bu coins or somethin
'
?
F
ew
2-
bu coins or somethin
g
?
Nope.
Nope.
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Damn that
shitty m
onk.
..
Damn that
bald M
onk.
Hey.
..
What's our
quarry
?
Hey.
What's our
prey
?
What on earth are we going to hunt?
What on earth are we going to hunt?
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Brother?
Bro?
Be
care
ful out there.
Take
care
now!
Say hi to Funamushi for me!
Say hi to Funamushi for me!
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Good luck with work!
Good luck with work!
Thanks!
Thanks!
Good morning!
Good morning!
Nice weather today, isn't it?
Nice weather today, isn't it?
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Oh! You
'
re up nice and early!
Oh! You
a
re up nice and early!
Morning!
Morning!
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Brother
...
S
houldn't you
get
up now?
Bro
...
s
houldn't you
wake
up now?
Are you hungover?
Are you hungover?
We're going hunting, aren't we?
We're going hunting, aren't we?
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Hamaji! You got your gun?
Hamaji! You got your gun?
!
Wear this...
Put this on. Wear this.
...and put this on.
Ahh―oww!
O-Ow!
From today, this will be our Job.
This is going to be our job from today.
Let's be perfect partners, in perfect harmony. "Om"
As partners, let us hunt in perfect unison.
I... can't read. Oh... ...mm...
I...can't read.
Fuse...
are canine beasts that
devour human life-orbs.
Fusé
are canine beasts that
consume human essence.
Life-orbs?
What's an "essence"?
The soul, in other words.
It's like your soul.
Actually
, yesterday
, before I
met up with
you
,
Actually
um
, before I
saw
you
yesterday...
I saw the
heads
of those "fuse" out on display..
.
I saw the
butchered
heads
the people said were from Fusé
.
Then I
can jump right
to
the
point
.
Then I
don't need
to
describe
the
m
.
If
you get rid of
the
fuse,
If
we slay
the
Fusé, we
can
get
a
great
reward from
the lord that
lives over there.
you
can
receive
a
massive
reward from
his Lordship, who
lives over there.
If
we're
lucky,
we
might even
get to enter government service
.
If
I get
lucky,
I
might even
be made an officer
.
Hey,
Brother, w
hat
's "government service"
?
Hey,
Bro? W
hat
is an Officer
?
Well, basically
being
a well-paid
s
amurai.
Well, basically
a well-paid
S
amurai.
Today
,
I'll show you around
. Y
ou can get some sightseeing in as well.
Today
I'll show you around
, and y
ou can get some sightseeing in as well.
L
et's see.
We can
go through
Kaminarimon
and
around Shinobazu
...
Hm, l
et's see.
..
go through
the
Kaminarimon
, go
around Shinobazu
,
...
and
then finish out
the day
in
Yoshiwara
.
Browse around Yoshiwara
and
that's enough for
the day
, I guess?
Yoshi...wara...?
Y-
Yoshiwara
?
Right
. Women aren't
really
allowed
to wander around
there.
Sure
. Women aren't
allowed
in
there.
That's why I
made
you dress
up like that
!
That's why I
've got
you dress
ed
up like that
.
Thanks
...
for all
of
this
!
Wow, uh...
Thanks
for all
this
.
Hold thy tongue!
Hold thy tongue!
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"T
was but
for
the
sake
of
my beloved sister!
For it
was but
the
nature
of
a brothers love!
Hey, Brother...
Bro?
Fus
é
look just like people, right?
Fus
e
look just like people, right?
Damn right
.
Sure
.
How do we tell them apart?
How do we tell them apart?
First, they have canine fangs.
First, they have canine fangs.
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Second,
they probably smell like
beast
s
.
Second,
you should able to pick up a
beast
smell
.
And lastly,
the
y say
there's a
mark
that looks like a peony
somewhere on their body
.
And lastly,
somewhere on
the
ir bodies,
there's a
bruise
that looks like a peony
.
A peony?
A peony?
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Yep.
Yep.
A peony flower, with eight segments.
A peony flower, with eight segments.
S-
so,
what's their weakness?
S-
So
what's their weakness?
This.
Right here.
Until you lop their heads off,
they'll keep coming at you
even if they're crawling
.
They say
they'll keep coming at you
,
even if they're crawling
, until you cut off their heads
.
Canine fangs.
Canine fangs.
Beast smell.
Beast smell.
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Peony
mark
.
Peony
bruise
.
Canine fangs.
Canine fangs.
Beast smell.
Beast smell.
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Peony
mark
.
Peony
bruise
.
Canine fangs!
Canine fangs!
Beast smell!
Beast smell!
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Peony
mark!
Peony
bruise!
Dear
Hamaji, sightseeing is over
from this point on
.
Right,
Hamaji, sightseeing is over
.
Let's head to our real hunting ground.
Let's head to our real hunting ground.
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Be careful
. The ground i
s pretty
slick here.
Be careful
! It'
s pretty
muddy underfoot!
Hurry
up!
Don't get separated.
Keep
up!
We'll lose each other!
This gate...
It's
like a huge mouth!
This gate...
its
like a huge mouth!
Your mouth's open pretty wide as well.
Your mouth's open pretty wide as well.
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Let's go
. This is Yoshiwara.
Come on
. This is Yoshiwara.
I can't get over this place
. Everything is so vibrant.
I can't get over this place
! Everywhere's bright and sparkly!
It's
the colors of the women of Edo.
Those are
the colors of the women of Edo.
Don't forget we're here for
the Fusé Hunt.
Keep your eyes
peeled.
Don't forget we're here for
fuse-hunting.
Almost
four
-
thousand women
live
here.
..
Keep your eyes
well
peeled.
If you include the trainee
s and
customers, it can
reach almost
seven
-
thousand people
.
There's about
four
thousand women
living
here.
It w
ouldn't be surprising
to find
a
Fusé
among
'em.
If you include the trainee
maid
s and
the
customers, it can
't be less than
seven
thousand people
here a day.
Hey,
Brother...
W
ouldn't be surprising
if there's
a
fuse
among
'em.
Hey,
Bro?
What do people come here to do, anyway?
What do people come here to do, anyway?
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Huh, well it
's...
a place for men to
warm their hearts
with a young women's body
...?
It
's...
a place for men to
seek the warmth of young women to
warm their hearts
...?
I
don't think I'm
explaining
it
very
well...
Hmm, I kinda
don't think I'm
describing
it
well...
But it's basically a paradise for men.
But it's basically a paradise for men.
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Paradise...
Paradise...
Its is
...
kind of
a little...
scary..
.
You're right
...
It's
a little...
eerie
.
What
? What?
Hey
!
!
What
the hell?!
Hey
—
!
Good news, young lad,
Good news, young lad,
y
ou're in luck today.
Y
ou're in luck today.
What
do
you want,
old hag?!
I'm not here
to play
today!
What
ta
you want,
lady?
I'm not here
for fun
today!
We've got an amazingly young and curvy one who
's getting deflowered
today.
We've got an amazingly young and curvy one who
was only broken in
today.
Just two silver coins
is fine
.
Just two silver coins
.
Young and curvy?
Young and curvy?
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Yep, a
glistening
new one!
Yep, a
sparkly
new one!
Hey, old hag
! If she looks like some trash the wind swept in, I will not be happy!
Oy, lady
! If she looks like some trash the wind swept in, I will not be happy!
Leave it to me.
Trust me!
Huh...?
Huh?
Brother?
Bro?
C'mon.
Oh no, if I
get lost...
Don't rush me now...
Young
M
aster, you don't have to
be so nervy
.
I better not
get lost...
Young
m
aster, you don't have to
worry about nothin'
.
Wh-Who are you?!
Wh-Who are you?!
It's okay, it's okay!
It's okay, it's okay!
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This is your first time
playing here
, right?
I'll take
good
care of ya.
This is your first time
in the pleasure quarter
, right?
You don't hafta
be scared.
I'll take
care of ya.
No need to
be scared.
L-Let go already!
L-Let go already!
Wh-What happened?
Wh-What happened?
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Oh
, a fight?
Wait
, a fight?
Keep out of it, nosy ass!
Keep out of it, nosy ass!
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Welcome.
..
Welcome.
Will you be staying t
he
night? Or simply here
for a quick release
?
Will you be staying t
o
night? Or simply here
to unwind
?
That hag
...!
That hag
!
Your s
word,
your
sword! You forgot this!
S
word,
sword! You forgot this!
Th-Thanks.
..
Th-Thanks.
Don't forget
,
you're here to hunt!
Don't forget
you're here to hunt!
!
Hey
there, cute little
m
aster
. H
ere to have some fun with me
...right?
Hi
there, cute little
M
aster
, h
ere to have some fun with me
?
N-
Not r
eally,
no
...
Not r
-r
eally,
I
...
My body feels like it's burning up
...
My body feels like it's burning up
!
Saved diffs
Original text
Open file
Moxie (OCR'd PGS) Fate. Cause and Effect. The Cause begins a story, and the Effect ends it. When the two come together, a story is formed. A huntress and a white dog. Their encounter is this story's beginning. In other words, the Cause. The young huntress knew almost everything about the mountains... The hardness of the soil, shifts of the wind, and the trails of each beast. Her grandfather taught her everything. They say there's an invisible thread between hunter and quarry. As that thread stretches and becomes taut, a rare connection is formed between their hearts. Connected. The girl's name was Ohyama Hamaji. She knew everything about the mountains... However, the mountains were all she knew. Today's your favorite, dog stew. You happy, Grandpa? I seasoned it how I like it, without much miso, so you might find it a little lacking. Thanks for the food. Hamaji's grandfather was killed and eaten by a bear in the fall. I can't eat all this... What's the matter, my dear Hamaji? Head Priest! Come now, cease the crying. A letter from Edo. "Hamaji, your brother, Dousetsu, will take care of you, so come out to Edo." "Being happy from now on will be our way of sending that shitty geezer off." "I'll be waiting for you." "Postscript. Head Priest, ready a few nibu coins for my darling sister..." "...to cover her travel expenses." Hm? What the heck...? Here. No matter what you do, just follow your heart. I'll go! I'll go see my brother in Edo! Edo Castle has such strong roots. It's just like the mountains... It looks like the Tokugawa era is full of peace and safety. Umm, excuse me... I've only just come to Edo today, and— Fish!!! Anyone want some fish?! Flatfish, yellowtails, sea robins... All fresh, caught this morning! Um... Do you happen to know an Ohyama Dousetsu? He's m— Vidro, vidro glass! Hold 'em up to the sun and conjure up an instant rainbow world! Vidro, vidro glass! In order to get to the place written on this lett— Make way! Make way! Wanna eat some preserved clam?! Let 'em in or keep 'em out? That'll decide the future of Edo. The Fukagawa Troupe's Princess Fusé, right? Did you see him? I felt such a twinge in my heart! What the hell are ya doing? Owww... Who's... ...quarry is this? Why is there only a head there?! They're decapitated as a warning. Did you perhaps wet yourself in fear? Wrong! I'm a hunter. I'm used to seeing things like this. But this one was still a pup! Did ya hear that, y'all? This country bumpkin's feelin' bad for a pup. Wrong! Don't laugh at me! Allow me to give you the details. These guys are hybrids of human and dog. All eight of them showed up in Edo early this fall... They're an inhumane group that goes around killing people night after night. Rich, poor, criminal informer, and samurai. Even women and kids aren't an exception. They run fast and jump so high that there's no hope of catching 'em. Since they have the bodies and minds of beasts, they became feared as Fusé. They're disguised as humans, so the authorities were having a hell of a hard time. Tormented by anxiety, the shogun, Sir Iesada Tokugawa, issued a Fusé hunting decree. He also attached an awful lot of bounty money to it. Even unemployed samurai sharpened their rusty swords, and started to roam around town with entitlement. And so, the Fusé were hunted down one after another... And it was this very day that a Fusé was found trying to sneak into Yoshiwara, and I, Makuwari, claimed its head! A job well done! There's just two left! C'mon take a looong look, bumpkin. That head is so freshly cut that the heat is still steaming off it... Knew she'd wet herself. I gotta find his place before the sun sets... Our job's done for now. Man, I could use a bath. You sure look like you're doing well, mister. Off to gamble on dice with your reward? Wh-Who the hell are you?! Dammit, hold it right there! What are ya doing?! That hurt! He ran that way! Go around, go around! Whoa there! Not having fun, are we? Play with me a little more. You got some nerve doin' that to my bro's eye. Crush that mask...along with his head! Sorry buddy, for some reason, my throat is so damn parched today...! An out-of-season winter cherry... I can't survive without it. That means you're...! Let's just part ways here. I'm not feeling very kind today. Dammit! It showed up! Guys, split into two. Trap it on Ryogoku Bridge! Roger! Owww... That face! I got a nice, long look at it. He's here! Get him! Sorry, I'm going to borrow this for a sec. Move it, boy! Boy? Just give up already! Let me see your face, too. Ladies dislike incessant men like... You! Whoops! Hey! Give that back! Hold it! That's mine! You have no place to run! I'll cut you to shreds! Never mind. I won't let you—! Just give it up already. Or else, you'll end up losing your other eye as well. You bastard, who are you?! Let's sip some cheap tea and have a long talk, shall we?! Didn't I tell you already that I'm not feeling kind today? People like you... ...deserve to live life in pitch darkness where even the moon doesn't rise. H-Help me... Just kidding. Geronimo! Here. So, that's for fireworks? Wrong... It's a gun. Gun? The weird shape totally threw me off. Whatever. Thanks, boy. Wrong. I'm a girl. I am...a girl. Ah, n-no wonder... No wonder...your cheeks—are red! No, that's from frostbite. There they are! It's those two! You're under arrest! Turn yourselves in! D-Did they say..."those two"? Obviously, meaning you and me. Guess the only thing we can do for now...is run! Let me gooo! Dammit! Is that guy in the river still alive?! Yeah, but he's out cold! So you just arrived in Edo today to look for your brother... Yeah... But...I never expected Edo to be so huge and full of people. Let me see it. No way. You're just going to treat it roughly again.. Not your gun. The letter, the letter. The heck? It's got his address right here. I...can't read. It says here, "Riverside Tenements by Kozakura Bridge." Be happy, Hunter Girl, it's right nearby. Your white hair is shiny... I've found your brother so now you're sucking up to me? It sets my teeth on edge. You're wrong... It's just that...your fur... You don't think I'm...unsettling? ...It's pretty. You're a strange one... See, it's over there. I want some...dried persimmons... Dammit. Brother...? Dousetsu, my brother! Brother! I-ls that you, Hamaji...? That's right! I came from the mountains! I see... Hamaji... So you are h— Brother! Are you all right?! So cold— Ready? One, two... Hamaji, you're really Hamaji, right? I'm sorry about everything! Thank you so much for coming all the way here. Thanks for the letter. I was really, really happy. If you wrote back, I could've gone to get you. You arrived in Edo today? You must've been lost. I was fine! That guy over there showed me where to go. ...Huh? Where'd he go? Well, make yourself feel at home. I-I didn't know there were tiny places in Edo too... It's a little dirty, but the storage room up top's yours to use as you want. It's smaller than the house in the mountains, but just put up with it for now. I'll have a big mansion built for ya before too long. Brother, I really like this place! Oh, that's good to hear. Calm down a little, though. Gun. Check. I also brought bullets, gunpowder, and the repair tools. Good. Also...beans, bear gallbladders, your favorite dried mochi, and a boar skin belly band. Th-Thank you... R-Right, and so... I've heard that you've grown to be a skilled hunter, despite being a woman. Yeah. Grandpa praised me. He said I'm a natural. Why would you bring that here? He was worrying about you the whole time. Don't ignore what I say. Put your hands together and pray for him... Sorry old man, but I'm definitely going to become a samurai. I've finally found a path to accomplish it. A path? Damn right! In fact, the reason I called you to Edo What? Dousetsu has a girl over?! is to follow that pa— That ain't good. Funamushi's scary when she's mad. Yeah, it was probably a girl. But she's only yea high. That thing's still a kid. She was bigger than me. You idiots! If you're gonna snoop, put some more effort into it and snoop properly! Why hello there. Nice to meet ya. Name's Yoshirou. Hope we can get along. I'm Touta! I saw you up by the clothes line... By the way, this thing is my son. H-Hello there. I'm Hamaji. Thanks for watching my bro— She's my little sister. What?! You two don't look alike. Not at all! Leave me be. M-My name's...Bansaku. We all live in these run-down tenement houses. That one over there is the old boatman, Zanzou's, place. I'm sure he'll be coming back soon. It's a pretty remote place, but the Ohkawa River and Ryogoku Bridge are nearby. Fireworks! That's right, there's also a summer fireworks display. I'm sure it'd be pretty fun to live with people like us. Why are you acting cutesy? You're creepy. They're finally here. Man, my shoulders are stiff... It's dinner time, you guys! Old man Zanzou rows so damn slow! So hungry! Food, food, food, food... That's Funamushi. She goes around selling food during the day and drops by here as a last stop. You must be hungry, right? I want miso glazed tofu, sweet omelette, and the fried radish with the most sauce. What's this? Good eye, Touta! That's my newest creation, "fluffed egg and clam bites." I'll have that! I'll bring it over. Just go wait over there. Okay! I'll have abalone and gently simmered tofu. Along with sake, right? You know me so well. I'll have miso glazed tofu and fried radish. And add sake to that. You're new. Who're you? My little sister, Hamaji. L-Little sister? You have one? Did I not tell you? Where're you from? The mountains. Mutsu province... Add in the sweet omelette, too. When'd you get here? I arrived...this morning. Leave the talk for later, and just choose something for her to eat. Money. Ah... My tab? Nope. Then...I'll make installments... I left the mountains about five years back, see... So I haven't seen my sister in a long time. It's been five years since Ma died... Around the time this little guy was born. We've both changed a whole lot. I think my brother lost a little weight. But I recognized him right away! Proof that Dousetsu hasn't made any progress. You seem to have mastered stupidity yourself through the years. What are you planning to pursue tomorrow? You know, work. "He who does not work, neither shall he eat." When you live in Edo, everything costs money. Money, huh... I'm a street vendor. I go about sellin' trinkets like bamboo-copters and paper balloons. Wanna work with me, Hamaji? I'll work... Leave her be! Starting tomorrow, she's gonna earn a living hunting in Edo with me. What? Not confident in your skills? As if! I have confidence in my hunting! He said "hunting in Edo"... Is this guy serious? You just watch! I'll bag the biggest game you've ever seen! Funamushi! One more bottle to fire us up! Bro, get under the covers properly! Jeez, who are you, my mom? Did the Head Priest give you anything? Like a few nibu coins or somethin'? Nope. Damn that shitty monk... Hey... What's our quarry? What on earth are we going to hunt? Brother? Be careful out there. Say hi to Funamushi for me! Good luck with work! Thanks! Good morning! Nice weather today, isn't it? Oh! You're up nice and early! Morning! Brother... Shouldn't you get up now? Are you hungover? We're going hunting, aren't we? Hamaji! You got your gun? Wear this... ...and put this on. O-Ow! This is going to be our job from today. As partners, let us hunt in perfect unison. I...can't read. Fusé are canine beasts that consume human essence. What's an "essence"? It's like your soul. Actually um, before I saw you yesterday... I saw the butchered heads the people said were from Fusé. Then I don't need to describe them. If we slay the Fusé, we can get a great reward from the lord that lives over there. If we're lucky, we might even get to enter government service. Hey, Brother, what's "government service"? Well, basically being a well-paid samurai. Today, I'll show you around. You can get some sightseeing in as well. Let's see. We can go through Kaminarimon and around Shinobazu... ...and then finish out the day in Yoshiwara. Yoshi...wara...? Right. Women aren't really allowed to wander around there. That's why I made you dress up like that! Thanks...for all of this! Hold thy tongue! "Twas but for the sake of my beloved sister! Hey, Brother... Fusé look just like people, right? Damn right. How do we tell them apart? First, they have canine fangs. Second, they probably smell like beasts. And lastly, they say there's a mark that looks like a peony somewhere on their body. A peony? Yep. A peony flower, with eight segments. S-So what's their weakness? Right here. They say they'll keep coming at you, even if they're crawling, until you cut off their heads. Canine fangs. Beast smell. Peony mark. Canine fangs. Beast smell. Peony mark. Canine fangs! Beast smell! Peony mark! Dear Hamaji, sightseeing is over from this point on. Let's head to our real hunting ground. Be careful. The ground is pretty slick here. Hurry up! Don't get separated. This gate... It's like a huge mouth! Your mouth's open pretty wide as well. Let's go. This is Yoshiwara. I can't get over this place. Everything is so vibrant. It's the colors of the women of Edo. Don't forget we're here for the Fusé Hunt. Keep your eyes peeled. Almost four-thousand women live here... If you include the trainees and customers, it can reach almost seven-thousand people. It wouldn't be surprising to find a Fusé among 'em. Hey, Brother... What do people come here to do, anyway? Huh, well it's...a place for men to warm their hearts with a young women's body...? I don't think I'm explaining it very well... But it's basically a paradise for men. Paradise... You're right... It's a little...eerie. What the hell?! Hey—! Good news, young lad, you're in luck today. What do you want, old hag?! I'm not here to play today! We've got an amazingly young and curvy one who's getting deflowered today. Just two silver coins is fine. Young and curvy? Yep, a glistening new one! Hey, old hag! If she looks like some trash the wind swept in, I will not be happy! Leave it to me. Huh...? Brother? C'mon. Don't rush me now... I better not get lost... Young master, you don't have to worry about nothin'. Wh-Who are you?! It's okay, it's okay! This is your first time playing here, right? I'll take good care of ya. You don't hafta be scared. L-Let go already! Wh-What happened? Oh, a fight? Keep out of it, nosy ass! Welcome... Will you be staying the night? Or simply here for a quick release? That hag...! Your sword, your sword! You forgot this! Th-Thanks... Don't forget, you're here to hunt! Hey there, cute little master. Here to have some fun with me...right? N-Not really, no... My body feels like it's burning up... Come on, won't you have a feel for me? I-I'm actually looking for someon— Why not taste a little enchantment? No, no, come with me! Cut it out, girls. Hey, Hunter Girl. I've been looking all over for you. Girl...? Why're you dressed like that then?! How misleading. That's right. She's a girl. Too bad for you, Otaki. Sh-She's with you, Shino? Pretty much. Jeez, you've spoiled the fun. Hurry up and scram! You should come drop some money on us once in a while! How should I put it? Umm...thanks. You get mistaken for a boy because you dress like one. These...belong to my brother... I knew it was something like that. This way! Where are you going?! It's not anything bad. Just follow me. You'll get left behind, young master. The things they sell here are what the courtesans usually use. Though they may be gaudy on the outside, they're classy and full of grace on the inside... Women sure do have two sides... My treat. As thanks for before. Pick anything you like. I-I can't... Choose? Just like that? Oh my, welcome, Shino, my dear. What can I do for you today? For her... Let's see some silk kimonos fit for spring. Oh my... What a darling girl... Well then, Shino, go let down the second from the left. Ordering your customers around from up there... No, no, the next one, the next one. Jeez... Good, good. I just got a wonderful one in. Good... ...good... ...and stop. I'll be down with you in a moment. Sorry... I don't want it... Huh? This wouldn't suit me! There's no way...it'd suit me. You should save that for after you've tried it on. That's right. You can always develop until you look good in it. That was deep... Totally, right? What the hell was that...? My dear, are you his lover? No, it's not like that... He's not easy to approach and has a bad mouth, but Shino really is very kind. He is a wonderful creature who treats everyone equally... It suits you well enough. Your heart will catch up before long. Dear me, my face is huge! One kimono beauty, made to order. You...really are a girl. W-What's that supposed to mean?! Hey dressmaker, add in a matching hairpin and sandals along with that. As you wish...sir... Please show up, Hamaji... This is all my fault... You...seem to know a lot of people around here. I guess. Is it the girls? Well, a girl, yeah. Actually, I had something I needed to tell her today, but... I couldn't do it. I'm about to turn tail and run. Stinks, doesn't it? This is Ohaguro Ditch, one of Yoshiwara's masterpieces. Ohaguro is the black stuff married women dye their teeth with. Prostitutes who try to escape... Babies with no one to take them... They all just end up chucked into this ditch. The other face of Yoshiwara. I guess that's the hidden side of women, too. Hey... Do you have someone special to you? Why do you ask that? I guess I'm just...jealous of that person. You're the man! This is the only gate, so if you wait here, you should find him. See ya, Hamaji the Hunter Girl. How do you know my name? I read the letter from your brother for you, remember? That's not fair! I haven't properly asked your name! Will you remember it? My name is... Shino. Shino... Thank you...for the kimono. No need for thanks. I was just paying you back. Right... We're even, then... Even, huh? You're a strange one. ...and it was totally awesome! And, what happened next?! Hamaji! I've been looking for you, my adorable partner! Hey... Did you...find any Fusé? Nope, not a trace. Let's finish up for today. We'll take a look at the evening cherry blossoms and head home. It's the evening bell. Now is when Yoshiwara really gets going. This is when all the night stalls get crazy. Guide to Yoshiwara! Gimme one! The Courtesan Procession is gonna start! I heard it's the top courtesan, Itezuru, today. Itezuru? She hardly ever shows! Let's go worship her! They say she's the top of the district. She's so beautiful you forget to breathe. I see. So like...you want to see her? ...Yeah. Oh, here she comes, here she comes! She's like a celestial maiden who came down from the heavens... Look at that, she has such a fair complexion. I can't do anything but sigh... Wow, she just melts your heart. Courtesans really are somethin' else... Hey, Hamaji! Get over here already, it's such a superb view! I'm trying! I can't see anything! Here! Grab on! Owww... Brother! Sorry... My grip slipped... She's a Fusé. Oh, come on... There's eight segments on her calf. Peony... ...mark. Beast... ...smell. It can't be... Courtesan ltezuru is a... She's a Fusé! Oh that's scary. She can suck out my essence anytime. This isn't a joke! Run, you idiots! How dare you disrespect our big sister?! Begone, you hillbillies! This is a hunt. Laymen shouldn't get involved! What a strange guest we have here! She's a Fusé! There's a Fusé on the loose! Did she fall in love at first sight? Let's go, Hamaji! As expected of my sister, great job tracking her down! She's swift! Government service and reward money! That's either a dead end or a secret passage. Let's trap her at the big cherry tree. Got it! Don't be rash! You too! Tell me... Why? Why don't you come to see me? It's been ten days since the date we arranged... Tell me... Shinbeh...! To tell ya the truth, I wanted to meet you in bed as a customer. Don't hate me for this, courtesan! Don't tease me like that! Just leave me alone... My heart is in enough pain as it is these days... Leaving before the customer... That sucks! Brother! What, Itezuru? No way, that's gotta be jealous rumors from the prostitutes. Yeah, I mean she rose to the top within a year... So quick! I hope my brother didn't get hurt! I-I'm so sorry... No, uh... Th-Thank you very much... Sorry, but I'm in a hurry. Please... Tell me this pathway widens at the end! Umm, excuse me... It can wait until you finish eating, but would you be kind enough to pull me out? Calm down... This is no different from being in the mountains! Connected! Did I get her?! Maybe I should just go see Shinbeh... No, that'd just cause trouble for him... It's fine for me...to be the only one hunted down. I extend you my warmest welcome. You're a Fusé, right...? You can't run anymore. Run? There was never anywhere for us Fusé to run in the first place. To actually meet my end at Ohaguro Ditch... It's so pitiful it makes me laugh... And this...marks my retirement. I'm not afraid to die. Now. Hurry up and do it, little girl. Oh, you smell like a woman, all right. It's obvious that you're just disguised as a man. You're scared of being a woman, aren't you? Shut up! As a fellow woman, I hope you will listen to my last...request. Don't make a move! I want you...to take this to Shinbeh on Mount Atago in Shiba. Why should I— I'm giving you my head. Won't you do this...to call it even? Did you know? The character for "Fusé" is written by combining "person” and "dog." I...can't read. Hamaji! Out of the way! Brother! Fare thee well... Word is the seventh Fusé has been taken! Hurry, hurry! Who did it?! Hey Kisuke, go call an informer! We have to report this to the authorities! Brother... We did it, Hamaji... Fire! Numbers One, Three, and Four! Keep the barrel level with your left hand, and fire from the dead center of your body! Load the next round! Readyyy! Sir! Only one left... Glistening when drawn, O great blade of justice, Murasamemaru... Please protect our pure blood from the impostors who press to open our doors. Please lend me the last of your power... ...and bring justice to those who are evil! It's getting infested with maggots... Daikaku, take this with you when you leave. Understood. Commissioner Aboji. Yes, my lord. How are preparations for the festival? My lord, considering your present state of health, I highly advise against holding a festival at this time. That is exactly why we must hold it. Everyone is uneasy. Why don't we open up the castle, and offer grand amusement for them? That's perfect! Daikaku! Once again... The people of the castle are constantly concerned about their own safety... I am sure the commoners will be overjoyed at His Lordship's consideration. Right?! I have to see this fate through to the very end... Regarding the slaying of the Fusé in Yoshiwara, you did truly admirably. Thank you. Thank you. His Lordship is most pleased that matters were settled without undue disturbance. Such being the case, I present you the reward money as promised. For now, the first hundred ryo. It's a bit of a burden, so the remaining four-hundred will be delivered by envoys tomorrow. Yes, thank you! In installments! Installments? D-Do you understand what you're saying?! Sir Officer, could we arrange for this money to be delivered a small amount at a time? A true Edoite won't deal with miserly crap like that...! Let's hear your reasoning. I just think becoming rich overnight is kind of...unfair to everyone else. The discipline of frugality, then. Very well. I hear that it was a joint effort by you brothers, so you are afforded a say. B-Brothers...? Um, I really think— Installments! Add the onion and parsley to it as you like, okay? Grandpa told me that hunting was about making connections... I'm splurging on this. Hurry up and eat... In that moment in Yoshiwara, I...connected with that Fusé. But even so...we still aren't even... Please come again! Hey, Hamaji. Maybe we should look for the Fusé separately. Yeah, good idea... It might be faster if we split up. You can say where you live, right? Riverside tenement houses by Kozakura Bridge... Right, well done. A festival? What's that about? Lord Iesada will be extending us commoners an invitation into the castle! That shogun must be feeling a bit forlorn. It's like a gathering where we can all feel better, before the country opens its doors. You help too, Dousetsu! A festival, huh? Pretty extravagant. What happened to you becoming an officer? Don't hold out on us, mister. Honestly, I stopped giving a crap when I got the money... Just gonna live and drink for a while. Hey, hold on, Dousetsu! What? We have to talk. Make some time for me tonight, 'kay? This isn't so you can press me about my tab, right? I'll be here waiting... ...Sure. Excuse me... Could it be you... I knew it! You are Ohyama Dousetsu, the man who slayed the Fusé, are you not? S-Sure, that's me. I have been entrusted with a message for you, you see... Please, take this. What's this? Some kind of ticket for a play? Yes! Is this the Fukagawa Troupe?! That's right! Thank you very much! I came here today to present you with an invitation to our kabuki show. Naturally, your gun-wielding little sister, and all of you are also invited! Yeah! Looks like Edo's safe today as well... What is that...? Is that...me? Newsprint. Three mon each. You're the one who's been selling these, aren't you?! You're that— I might not be able to read but I sure understand pictures! You have me on here like a man! That's pretty rude, you know! You're...a girl? Yes, I am! Do it over! Can't. Already made the woodcut. Woodcut? To be able to make something like that... You're really something! Oh, oh no... It's really not that hard... Is that your latest? I'll take one. You there, boy! I'll take one too! Boy... How much are they? Oh, umm... Three mon each! Newsprint! Get your newsprint! Three mon each! Latest issue on the Fusé Hunt! Newsprint! Mount Atago in Shiba? Yeah... Do you know where it is? Is it close to here? It might be a little too far to walk... If you go down the Ohkawa River by boat, I think you'd arrive by sunset, though. Thanks... You're amazing, Meido. We're the same age but you can already make newsprints... Slaying the Fusé is way more amazing. But, yeah, my grandpa writes novels, so that has been a major influence... I totally get that! Sweets I became a hunter thanks to my grandpa's influence. Did you like your grandfather? I've been rebelling against mine lately. Ever since his eyes went bad, he makes my mother do everything for him... ...So I've been avoiding talking to him as payback. Sounds hard... Yeah. I'm getting close to disliking myself... It's Hamaji! Hm? Heeeeeey! You're sure quick on finding women. Hamaji! We were just gonna go get old man Zanzou. You wanna come see the kabuki too? Huh? Kabuki? The Fukagawa Troupe! Everyone else is there already! It's a small theater act that's become popular recently. They're performing in Shiba on Mount Atago. You wanna come too, miss? It's called kabuki. It's a type of play featuring only young men. So even the female roles are played by men? Yeah, apparently Kokubyaku Ohmori is a really popular actor. Even the bigshots from Saruwaka tried to recruit him. The line's moving. Kokubyaku, it is almost time. The guests you invited have arrived. Right. Satomi Hakkenden... Oh... The original work was a sad story about a dog and a human... Precisely. It's a story of bittersweet love. Aw, man... I thought we were gonna be seeing a play with some sword fights. Well, you aren't. A love story, huh? No wonder there's so many women here. Funamushi really should've come. Who knows... She said she didn't feel like it today, what more can one do? Hey, this kabuki is one of those adapted works, right? Adapted? Yes, seems like it. One of those derivative works where they futzed around with the original novel. Gassy-ku! No, no! My name is Bansaku! You seem pretty knowledgeable about all this, little miss. Yes. After all, Hakkenden was written by my grandfather. Takizawa Bakin... He's my grandfather... Awa Province, the Warring States Period. This is the story of a great man, chosen by his family's treasured sword, Murasamemaru. His name—Yoshizane Satomi. Within the castle he'd built, a baby girl, lovely as a jewel, was born one night. She is as beautiful as the full moon that shines this night. You shall serve the castle, and the people of the village. You shall discard the self, and live a life of peace and service. And so the girl was named "Fusé." Time flows on seventeen years. I see. So this is how they're spinning it. I'm waiting for you! Look at me, Sir Koku! As a child, the princess ran across fields and climbed mountains. She never concerned herself with reading, and lived as if she were a boy. He's Kokubyaku, the one with the seductive glance we were talking about. However, after taking in Yatsufusa, a dog with fur like white velvet... Princess Fusé started becoming considerably more feminine. Princess Fusé gazed lovingly at Yatsufusa, who was like her other half, as Yatsufusa darted through the fields and climbed mountains. Shino...! My god, he's beautiful! A man as pretty as that sure puts this ugly lot in an awkward position. Sadly, these happy days did not last long for Princess Fusé. There was a surprise invasion by Kagetsura Anzai from the neighboring province! An emergency trapped Yoshizane. Cornered, he vowed the hand of Princess Fusé as a reward to whoever brought him the head of the enemy general... U-Unbelievable! The one who delivered Kagetsura's head was Princess Fusé's beloved dog, Yatsufusa! And so, as promised, the dog and the princess became husband and wife. Take that! Hamaji. When the play ends, I'll be waiting in the area out back... But there is more to this story. The story goes that Princess Fusé and Yatsufusa had a child together. I cannot permit this! For my daughter, a daughter of the Satomi family, to bear the child of a cur! Farewell, all those I loved. I shall take Yatsufusa and this child, and live away from the castle... The woman and the dog vanished into the Fusé Forest, far from civilization. Bye-bye! Come again! Some wonder about the life the princess carried that day. Was that the beginning of what would, in later eras, become known as the Fusé? But that... ...is another play. Thank you for coming! We hope for your continued patronage! We await your next visit! That was a good play... Truly a strange story... Hey, Brother. Hm? What's up? I forgot to buy an actor portrait... You wanted one of those? I'll buy ya one. Don't worry, I have money. Could you...go on ahead? I'm sure I'll catch right up. Hamaji... Don't stay out too long. Okay. I didn't call out to her, but... Hamaji turned around anyway. In that moment... we were connected. Shino?! Looks like we've found ourselves a duck bearing green onions. Except in this case, it's carrying a huge gun. Let go! Who are you people?! Oh, that makes me sad. We know all about you... Including the fact that you have connections to a Fusé... She's a girl?! Well this is gonna be a fun night tonight! Where is that Fusé now? If you don't answer, I'll crush this jaw of yours. You guys aren't very lucky at all. My throat is parched today, too. I knew that you...were the last Fusé... Shi— You know, I want to consume even your essence so damn badly! Now kill me, please... With that gun of yours... Kill me! I just came here to give someone named Shinbeh a lett— He's long dead...! Shinbeh was ltezuru's child. The child of a Fusé and a human... I don't know who the father was. A child is a death knell for a courtesan, so I was taking care of him. She was only able to see him once a month... I'd pretend to be a customer, and sneak him in to see her... Hurry the hell back home, Hunter Girl! Funamushi! I was waiting until I became an officer, but... Would you...be my wife? I want to work, and I don't want to lose... I'm scared about a lot of things too, y'know... Give me...a little time... Hamaji! Any luck? Nothing! Me neither. Looks like she's gotten herself lost. Damn it! Hey! Take an umbrella! Excuse me... Hello? Are you all right? Um... Does Meido live here...? Huh? Meido... Give me a moment... Hamaji?! What happened to you? So warm... Otai, could you carry her in? Certainly, Madam! I'll go ahead and boil some water. Okay! Did you write this as well? Don't, don't! It's still written really poorly... A new newsprint? No. A full novel. A story. But it's no good at all. It's so difficult. Doesn't feel like you have a fever. Your body temperature just got really low. So you're going to be a scholarly author of novels... Oh, don't! It's just a dream of mine. I'm nothing compared to the Fusé-hunting girl. I can't do that anymore... I'm...a hunter who can't shoot anymore. I was hoping you could read this for me... Love letter? No. Just a letter with no place to go... That will do for tonight... I will drive out all the impostors... Please choose me. Murasamemaru, Murasamemaru, Murasamemaru, Murasamemaru... I understand your concern for Lord Iesada. But we serve the long lineage of Tokugawa before His Lordship. There is no other option but to have him stay put tomorrow. What's your progress...? The curtain on the special stage should open at 5:00 p.m. You said he's called... Kokubyaku? On my remaining eye, Sir, I swear... My information is accurate. Just past the line of stalls, there's a pool of water. That's where we have the floating stage. Wow, that's amazing! A stage just for us! It is more than we deserve. You have our gratitude. The noblemen's wives will pass through this entrance gate to watch. Do not point your rear ends toward them. Of course not! My ass will be firmly under control! Ummm, where is the bathroom? Bathroom? Let's see... Use this one, that's the closest. But don't go beyond that. Huh, is this a road? A bridge? You don't even know how to read maps? Here's the bridge! Main tower! Stage! Ah, excuse me. Hamaji, was it...? Would you care to join us for some breakfast? We have plenty more. Yes! Thank you very much! I'm really sorry for worrying you! I'm completely fine now! This is Meido's grandfather. His name is Grandfather Bakin. I-It's a pleasure to meet you! I've heard a lot about you from your granddaughter! He's writing a novel. Yes! They're really popular among the people of Edo, right? I can't read, so I don't know anything about them! You can't read? Nope! So I'll have Meido read it for me! Saddle-Up Hakkenden! Idiot! Satomi Hakkenden! Uh, I-I'm sorry, Grandpa Bakin... No, it's fine. There's no need to apologize. Since my eyesight deteriorated, I too have been relying on Omichi here to write for me. Please don't apologize. I guess we're not so different, if neither of us can read or write! What? Hey! What's so funny?! Someone explain! You two should go to the festival Lord Iesada is holding today. I hear there will be lots of stalls... What do you want to do, Hamaji? The festival's at Edo Castle. Festival? Ah, oh yeah! The Fukagawa Troupe from yesterday will be there performing as well! So that's why he— The food was delicious, thank you very much! H-Hey, wait a second! Hamaji, where are you going?! I finally figured out where I have to take this letter! Thank you! Huh? I think you got your stubbornness from your grandfather! Hey! Hamaji! Brother? Sorry... I'm...sorry too, for worrying you. Hey Hamaji... I'm gonna be a father. Funamushi is with child. I might not look like much of a father now, but I'll just have to develop myself until I do. It'll happen! I'm sure you'll get there in no time! I got a lead on the last one. I'm going on a Fusé Hunt! Hey, Hamaji! Don't kill it! Go make things even! I love you, Brother! A stage on the water with the main tower beautifully reflected. Oh, no... I'm getting nervous already! Don't pee yourself! You wait till we're on stage! I'll go wild! Don't take him seriously. He's just teasing. Look. Up there. For such a grand tower to even exist, such magnificence! Let's make this a good one. What is it, Kokubyaku? It was on your back... A cabbage white butterfly! Now that does bode well! Do you have any water? You don't look so good... Drank too much last night. Are you the members of the Fukagawa Troupe? A-Ah, yes! We cannot thank you enough for calling on us to perform for you today! The actor calling himself Kokubyaku would be you there, correct? It is I who should thank you! Guards, take him away! That man is the last Fusé! I won't let you say you forgot about me. Oh dear, you're already in the mood again? Kokubyaku, what on earth is going on? Right? I'm terribly sorry my old friend, but the play hasn't started yet! Wrong. The play's already over! Hey, Fusé! I'm not feeling kind today! That's definitely my line! Dammit...! You monster...! Don't come any closer! Hey, Kokubyaku... You're tellin' me you were a Fusé...? Why did you give up?! Tell me this is also an act. Play the part through to the end! Then I can keep believing in you...! Sorry... The act is already over... After him, after him! Don't let him into the building! Shinbeh... Each time you ask when you can see me again, torrential rain pours down inside your mother's heart. That rainwater builds, and builds, and when it has filled me to the point of overflowing, I will be able to see you again. That is what I believe... I'm sure that at that time, the rain will become a river of joyous tears... Shinbeh, do you remember the collodion photograph we took in Yokohama? Every time your mother gazes at that photograph, I remember your round forehead, your cheeks as soft as mochi, and your adorable little hands. Whenever I start to let go of your hand, you always know it's time, and ask me, "Hey, when can I see you again?" Hamaji? You're in a hurry, aren't you? I'll take you. You've still got around an hour before the play starts. Don't worry. You'll make it. Thank you... Umm... I hope you'll let me hold the baby too! Face forward. You know, I just stopped caring about what it means to be womanly or manly. Dousetsu got mad at me. Told me to be honest with my feelings, and then I won't be scared anymore. You know... If you take away my brother's honesty, there's really nothing left of him! I'm going to try my hand at being a mother. All done! You've transformed into a woman. Right! Funamushi! I'm going ahead! Go for it! We'll be waiting back home! Thanks! Jeez, I just had that looking nice... I won't let you inside! If you want your essences devoured, make sure you form a nice, neat line! He's headed for the keep! Dammit, if only he didn't have that hostage... Send the firearms unit to go around and wait for them. But, Commissioner Aboji— It doesn't matter! We can always replace a third-rate samurai! Form a line! Ready ammunition! Betrayed by your master just to get me. Too bad for you. A dog might whine about it, sorry to disappoint, but I'm a human. I'm used to being betrayed. The stairs are behind the corner tower. Iesada is on the very top floor. Hurry up and go already. There! There! There! Fire! Anyone seen my sword?! The brazier! Bring water from the rain bucket! Hurry up and call for the men! I'll be waiting for ya in the next world... while I boil up some cheap tea. I'm here to hunt the Fusé! Hey, hold it! Damn that Fusé... He plans to go right inside! Hurry up and shoot him dead! Commissioner Aboji! It's dangerous to shoot around here! We have to evacuate the people who came for the festival before— Silence! I'll authorize it! The Fusé is Hamaji's quarry, right? Yep. Let's use the human bamboo-copter. Up for it, eh? You're the son of a street vendor all right. Ready! Commissioner, let's have some fun! Tickle, tickle, tickle... Stop it! Get off me! C-Commissioner Aboji... Hey, you! Are you blind?! Grab a bow! Wh-What the hell is that kid doing?! Keep your hands off that Fusé! He's this girl's quarry! Girl or not, show no mercy! Fire! Fire! Owww... Hold it, hold it! It's Yatsufusa! You're Kokubyaku's girlfriend, right? I'm heading to the bathroom inside the castle. Would you please come with me? ...Oh! I've been waiting for you! Someone bring the water from the rainwater barrels! Fire squad! Someone call the fire brigade! First priority is the tower! Don't let the flames build any higher! Fire! Get out of here now! I heard the Fusé started it! I will drive out the impostors... ...drive out the impostors... I have removed the bolt. I would advise you to leave before the flames reach you! I'm waiting for the story to end from right here... I must make clear which one of us is a counterfeit! Or my life will not even begin... You damn hound! I'll put you down, then you'll stay put! I'd like to at least choose how I die... I didn't think being alone would feel this cold... Ow, ow! We don't have the time to be fussing about with fire! Put it out, quick! Sprint to the well! Commissioner, Sir! If you're really a samurai, untie the women and children at least! They're just gonna burn to death! Tokugawa does not discriminate among those who oppose it. If you don't want to burn... Perhaps I should cut you down along with the tree? Dad! Now, I can't let that one go! Cherry blossoms let their own petals scatter and fall... but if that's the way of a samurai, it's the most pathetic thing I've ever heard. He's the loafing ronin who slew the Fusé in Yoshiwara. Interesting. Draw, you impudent fool! D-Dousetsu... No more installments. From now on, I will give and take everything in one lump sum! Attack! I struck them with the back of my sword. No need to worry. All right, Tenement Hero! Dousetsu! Open every gate, and we'll all carry the moat water in together. You think I will take orders from a plebeian?! You blockhead! This is not the time or situation to be fixating on status! Carry it! Wind... It's going to fan the flames. We'll need all your help. Sure! Shino! Shino! Murasamemaru has chosen me... Welcome to the Forest of Fusé. You must be the last one? Would you be happy if I reply to you with a bark? I have been waiting a long time for you... Your white fur is very beautiful. It'll become even glossier if I consume your essence. Now then...let us bring this fate to an end. Of course. Glistening when drawn... O great blade of justice! I shall reap your head! Perish, Fusé! Allowing my daughter to conceive the spawn of a dog, was my gravest sin! And that's your excuse for killing my kind?! Accept it! If you do that, you won't be afraid of the future! Silence, impostor! What is that...? Your kind were a mistake, born wrongly into this world! There's no such thing in this world as one who's born as a mistake! This blade chose me alone! You're not the only one who's been fighting desperately for his people! You think that killing me, an "impostor," will make you a proper shogun?! Precisely! Offer your life to the real one! Even impostors...can become real if they live with determination! But ... ...served the castle... ...served my people... ...and discarded myself. I don't want it... If I consume your essence, I see myself becoming as much of a wreck as you. Otai, I already piled up Bakin's manuscripts. Go give a shout to Meido. The flames will be here soon. Father, you must hurry along! This blasted novel. It should burn with the rest of the place... With the writing of Hakkenden, I wanted give the Fusé justice. I wanted to give them a place in society... And yet, no matter how much I wrote... ...in the end, the stories were nothing more than that! I'm so sorry, Omichi...everyone... Move it! Move it! The fire's spread that way! Don't shrink with fear! The Fusé? Farewell...all those I loved... I shall live away from the castle. Don't go! Hunter Girl... Itezuru and Shinbeh weren't consuming essence... They were cheering each other up with letters and trying to resist it! You have to be the one to have this... Hurry! No more... My foot...won't hold! You were holding it in for me, trying to not consume any essence, weren't you? That's what you wanted to tell me after the play, isn't it? Just leave me be... Wherever I go, death shadows me... Don't feel guilty about surviving... Shino... I love you. If it gets too much to bear, you can have my essence... Will you...stay connected to me forever? Yeah... I won't kill anymore... Can we call it even? Tear down that guard box while there's still time! Block the fire from spreading! Thank goodness... It's a passing rain... The sky's crying. I think they're tears of joy. Yaaaaay! Hamaji... He's gone... We met here, and we parted here... He'll come back though, right...? Hey, Meido, would you teach me how to write? Sure. But why? I was thinking about writing him a letter. Look at that, Hamaji! Oh, wow! Meido! Hurry up and get ready. We need to get going! Go ahead of me! I'll be right behind you! Fate. Cause and Effect. A Cause begins the story, an Effect ends it. When the two come together, the story is formed... I can't think of a conclusion! Funamushi opened a budget restaurant. Her fluffed egg and clam bites gained popularity quickly, and she even has regulars from mansions and temples. Every day is busy. Come on, guys, bunch up more! Where am I, where am I... Bido, bido, bido, bido! Count to ten. Okay. One! Two! Three! Four! Five! Six! Stop moving... Seven! Eight! Stay still, would ya! Nine! Ten! Ow! He couldn't become an officer, but Dousetsu is now a dual-wielding samurai, commanding both a pellet drum and a bamboo-copter. Before the fireworks begin, how about it, my lord? A sip of sake, perhaps? We are traveling incognito. Why are you acting all excited? I think I'll have some. Even I like to unwind sometimes. Come now, fill it up. The fires and quarrels for which Edo is so well known died down, and the era of Tokugawa returned to stability. The eighth Fusé was swiftly captured, and its head placed on display... Worry not. To my eyes, it is a grotesque head, severed brutally at the neck. I pray that people will always have dogs by their side. Okay, I'll write the next part of the story, then! Coming and going between fiction and reality requires resolve, you know. I'm ready for it. There she is... I knew it. You climbed all the way up there again! So what is it? Got a scoop? Something funny? Don't tease, just tell me already, Hamaji! You won't put it in the newsprint? I won't, I won't! I've never done anything like that! I got a reply... ...from Shino! They started! A letter arrived from the Fusé. It's decided. That will be the Effect of this novel. That will be its conclusion. OKOUCHI ICHIRO OKOUCHI ICHIRO To Hamaji
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Kulot (Karoshi edit) "Inga." Cause and effect. "In" is the start of things, and "ga" is their end. It takes both to form a story. A female hunter and a white male dog. The meeting of these two forms the beginning of this story. In other words, the "in". That young hunter knew mostly everything about the mountains. The firmness of the earth, when the wind would cease, the paths the beast took. She learned all these from her Grandfather. They say that a hunter and her prey are connected by an invisible string. The moment that string is tightened, a strange bond is born in their hearts, making them long to be connected. Connected. The girl's name was Ooyama Hamaji. She knew everything about these mountains. But the mountains were all she knew. Your favorite today, Grandpa. Dog stew. Happy? I seasoned it to my own taste with not much miso, though, so you might find it little lacking. Time to eat! Hamaji's Grandfather was eaten by a bear this past autumn. I can't eat all this... What's the matter, Hamaji, dear? Temple Master... Ohh, come now, stop crying. A letter arrived from Edo for you. "To Hamaji. I will take care of you, so come to Edo. Finding new happiness for yourself is the best way to lay the old man to rest. Waiting for ya. Your bro, Dousetsu. Postscript. "Temple Master, read a few 2-bu coins for my darling sister... to cover her travel expenses." What's that about? Here. What you do now is between you and your heart. I'll go! I'll go to my bro in Edo! Edo Castle looks as sturdy as an oak... It's practically a mountain... Well, looks like the Tokugawa Era will be safe for now... Umm, excuse me... I've only just come to Edo today, and... Fish!! Anyone for fish?! Halibut, yellowtail, gurnard! All fresh and caught this morning! Umm.. I don't suppose you know an Ooyama Dousetsu, he's my brother and I― Biidoro! I've got Biidoro! Hang them in the Sun, and conjure an instant Rainbow World! Biidoro! How do I get to the place on this lett― Make way!! Make way!! D'ja want some simmered asari? Open up or keep 'em out? That's what'll decide the future of Edo. Princess Fuse is in the Fukagawa Troupe, right?! Did you see him?! My heart was wrenching! What the heck are you doin', girl? Owwww... Whose prey is that?! W-Why is there only a head there?! For show. Pissed yourself in a fight or something? No! I'm a hunter! I'm used to this! But I mean... this one was still a cub! Y'hear that? This bumpkin's got feelings for a damn dog! I do not! Don't laugh at me! I'll give ya the gory detail. These things are half-human, half-dog. Start of this fall, eight of 'em showed up in Edo. They go around killing people night after night. They're evil and morally bankrupt. The rich, the poor, police, and samurai, even kids ain't beyond 'em. They're fast runners and jump so high there's no hope of catching 'em. They're beast in mind and body, so they're called "fuse." Everyone's terrified of 'em. They look just like humans, so even the authorities are having a hell of a hard time. So. Tormented by anxiety, the Shogun, Tokugawa Iesada, issued a fuse hunting decree. It's got a hefty reward attached, too. Even the jobless Samurai polished their rusty swords, and started roaming all over town. And so! One by one the fuse were hunted down, And it was just today that a fuse was found trying to sneak into Yoshowara, and I, Makuwari, claimed its head! Now there's only two left! Come on, take a good look, kid... Look at that head. It's so freshly cut, the warmth is streaming off it... Knew she'd piss herself! I gotta start looking for my bro's house before the sun sets... Our job's done for now. Man, I could use a bath. You look like you're doing pretty well for yourself. Off to play dice with your reward? Who the hell are you?! Hold it right there!! What's he think he's playing at, that hurt! He went that way! Go round, go round! Whoa there! Not very friendly, are ya? Come on, let's play a little longer. You got some nerve, doin' that to my buddy's eye here. Break that mask and the rest of his face as well!! Sorry, buddy... My throat is so damn parched today...! An out-of-season winter cherry. I have no use for it. Wait, you're―! Let's just leave it here, bud. I am not feeling nice today. Damn you...! I found one! Guys, split into two teams, trap him on Ryougoku Bridge! Got it! Owww... Your face. I got a nice long look at it. He's here! Get him! Sorry, just gonna borrow this a sec. Outta the way, boy! Boy? Time you stopped running! I wanna see your face too. Persistent man. You know the ladies hate that...?! Hey! Give it back! Hold up! That's mine! End of the road. I'll cut you to ribbons! Changed my mind. Fat chance! Give it up already. If you don't, you'll lose your other eye as well. What the hell are you? Why don't we discuss it over some cheap tea?! I did warn you that I'm not feeling nice today... What people like you need... is pitch blackness without even a moon to spend the rest of your lives in... Help me... Just kidding. Geronimo! Here. That for launching fireworks? No. It's a gun. A gun? That weird shape threw me off... Well, whatever. Thanks, boy. No. I'm a girl. I'm a girl. Ah, that's why... that's why your cheeks are red. No! That's frostbite! There! that's them, there! Stay where you are! Turn yourselves in! "That's them?" You and me, I expect! For now, I guess we've just gotta run! Let me go! Damn it! Is the guy in the river still alive?! Yeah, but he's out cold! So you just came to Edo today, in search of your brother. Yep, but I didn't think Edo was so big and busy. Pass it here. No! You'll just mess with it again. Not the gun... The letter, the letter. Huh... it's got his address right here! I can't read... It says it's at the riverside houses by Kozakura Bridge. Good news, Hunter Girl. It's right nearby. Your white hair is all shiny. So now I've found your brother you're sucking up to me? Sets my teeth on edge. No... I just thought... how sleek it is, it's... Don't you feel uncomfortable around me...? It's pretty. You're a strange one, aren't you? Go on... that way. I want... I want those... Oysters... Son of a... Bro? Dousetsu nii-chan!! Nii-chan! Hamaji?! Yep! I came! From the mountains! You did... Hamaji... You came...! Nii-chan! You okay?! ...Cold... One, two... Hamaji, is it really you?! I'm so sorry! Thank you, thank you for coming... Thank you for the letter! I was really happy! Why didn't you send one back, I'd have come to get you! Did you arrive in Edo just today? You must've been a bit lost... I was fine! That guy told me where to go! Huh? Where'd he go? Well, make yourself at home. I-I guess Edo isn't just all big buildings. It's a bit dirty, but the loft up top's yours to use as you want. It's a lot tinier than your mountain lodge, but just put up with it for now. I'll have a big mansion built for ya before too long. Hey, Bro! I like this place! Ah, haha, that's great. Calm down a bit, though. Gun. Check. I also have the bullets, the gunpowder, and the repair tools. Good. Also... Zomi beans, bear gall bladders, your favorite, dried mochi... and a boarskin belly band. Th-Thanks. R-Right, so, I hear that being born a girl hasn't stopped you developing into a fine hunter. Nope. Grandpa praised me for it. Said I have the knack. Why'd you bring that with you. He's been worried about you all this time. Look, we were having a conversation. Just put your hands together for him. Sorry, old man, but I am set on becoming a samurai. I finally found a way to get there. A way? Sure! In fact, the reason I called you to Edo in the first place- What? Dousetsu has a girl over? That ain't good. Funamushi is not pretty when she's mad. Yeah, it was probably a girl. But still only about yay high. Gotta be a kid, right? She was bigger than me. Oy! If you're gonna snoop, put some effort into it and snoop properly! Good day, good day, nice to meet you. My name's Yoshirou. Hope we can get along. I'm Touta! I was just out by the clothes pole. He's my son, incidentally. H-Hi. M-My name's Hamaji. Thank you for al― My little sister. Don't look alike, do you Not at all! Cut it out. M-My name's Bansaku. We all live in these beat-up row houses here. The one at the back is where the old boatman Zanzou lives. He should be gettin' back soon. This place is pretty remote, but the main river and Ryougoku Bridge are nearby. Fireworks! Yep, and we have firework shows in the summer! I think you'll find we're a fun little playgroup to live with, too. Playgroup? Grow up, man. Oh, here we go. Ahh, my shoulders. Guys! Grub's up! Geez, couldn't Zanzou row any faster? I'm hungry! Food Food Food Food Her name's Funamushi. By day she goes around selling food from her boat, and she drops by here as a last stop. You must be hungry? I'll have miso dengaku and a sweet omelette. Also, deep fried daikon, really soaked in the sauce. What's this? Nice eye, Touta! That's my new creation, "Fluffy Egg Clam Parcels." I'll have those! I'll bring it over to you, so go wait over there, okay? Okay! The abalone and gently simmered tofu for me. You'll take sake with that, right? The lady knows her food. Dengaku and the deep fried daikon and some sake. Here's a new face. She's my little sister. Hamaji. S-Sister?! You had a little sister? Didn't I say? Where you from? T-The mountains. Mutsu Province. Add in a sweet omelette as well. When d'you get here? I a-arrived this morning. Save this for later! Just throw her something for now. Money? ...Tab? Nope. Then... I'll pay in installments. I left those mountains about five years back, see... Hadn't seen my sister in a long time. Five years back... that's when Ma died and shorty here was born. We've both changed a lot. I think Bro lost a little weight. But I knew it was him right away! More proof that Dousetsu never gets anywhere. Your stupidity doesn't look like it's going anywhere either. What are you planning to do starting tomorrow? You know, work? "Those who don't work, don't eat?" When you live in Edo, everything costs you money. Money, huh... I'm a street vendor, I go around selling stuff like bamboo-copters and paper balloons. You wanna work with me, lil' Hamaji? ...tie for workhh... Leave her alone! Starting tomorrow, she's gonna be earning living by hunting in Edo with me. What? ain't up to the job? As if! I have confidence in my hunting! Hunting in Edo? Is he serious? You just watch! I'll bag the biggest game you've ever seen! Funamushi! One more bottle, let's get some fire in us lads! Bro, get under the covers properly! Whaddaya my mom? Did the Temple Master give you anything? Few 2-bu coins or something? Nope. Damn that bald Monk. Hey. What's our prey? What on earth are we going to hunt? Bro? Take care now! Say hi to Funamushi for me! Good luck with work! Thanks! Good morning! Nice weather today, isn't it? Oh! You are up nice and early! Morning! Bro... shouldn't you wake up now? Are you hungover? We're going hunting, aren't we? Hamaji! You got your gun?! Put this on. Wear this. Ahh―oww! From today, this will be our Job. Let's be perfect partners, in perfect harmony. "Om" I... can't read. Oh... ...mm... Fuse... are canine beasts that devour human life-orbs. Life-orbs? The soul, in other words. Actually, yesterday, before I met up with you, I saw the heads of those "fuse" out on display... Then I can jump right to the point. If you get rid of the fuse, you can receive a massive reward from his Lordship, who lives over there. If I get lucky, I might even be made an officer. Hey, Bro? What is an Officer? Well, basically a well-paid Samurai. Today I'll show you around, and you can get some sightseeing in as well. Hm, let's see... go through the Kaminarimon, go around Shinobazu, Browse around Yoshiwara and that's enough for the day, I guess? Y-Yoshiwara? Sure. Women aren't allowed in there. That's why I've got you dressed up like that. Wow, uh... Thanks for all this. Hold thy tongue! For it was but the nature of a brothers love! Bro? Fuse look just like people, right? Sure. How do we tell them apart? First, they have canine fangs. Second, you should able to pick up a beast smell. And lastly, somewhere on their bodies, there's a bruise that looks like a peony. A peony? Yep. A peony flower, with eight segments. S-so, what's their weakness? This. Until you lop their heads off, they'll keep coming at you even if they're crawling. Canine fangs. Beast smell. Peony bruise. Canine fangs. Beast smell. Peony bruise. Canine fangs! Beast smell! Peony bruise! Right, Hamaji, sightseeing is over. Let's head to our real hunting ground. Be careful! It's pretty muddy underfoot! Keep up! We'll lose each other! This gate... its like a huge mouth! Your mouth's open pretty wide as well. Come on. This is Yoshiwara. I can't get over this place! Everywhere's bright and sparkly! Those are the colors of the women of Edo. Don't forget we're here for fuse-hunting. Keep your eyes well peeled. There's about four thousand women living here. If you include the trainee maids and the customers, it can't be less than seven thousand people here a day. Wouldn't be surprising if there's a fuse among'em. Hey, Bro? What do people come here to do, anyway? It's... a place for men to seek the warmth of young women to warm their hearts...? Hmm, I kinda don't think I'm describing it well... But it's basically a paradise for men. Paradise... Its is... kind of a little... scary... What? What? Hey!! Good news, young lad, You're in luck today. Whatta you want, lady? I'm not here for fun today! We've got an amazingly young and curvy one who was only broken in today. Just two silver coins. Young and curvy? Yep, a sparkly new one! Oy, lady! If she looks like some trash the wind swept in, I will not be happy! Trust me! Huh? Bro? Oh no, if I get lost... Young Master, you don't have to be so nervy. Wh-Who are you?! It's okay, it's okay! This is your first time in the pleasure quarter, right? I'll take care of ya. No need to be scared. L-Let go already! Wh-What happened? Wait, a fight? Keep out of it, nosy ass! Welcome. Will you be staying tonight? Or simply here to unwind? That hag! Sword, sword! You forgot this! Th-Thanks. Don't forget you're here to hunt!! Hi there, cute little Master, here to have some fun with me? Not r-really, I... My body feels like it's burning up! Come on, won't you have a feel for me? I'm actually looking for someone... Don't you want a little taste of fantasy? No no no, come with me! Cut it out, girls. Hey, Hunter Girl. I've been looking all over for you. Girl? Why're you dressed like that then?! Making life hard for us. Yep. She's a girl. Too bad for you, Otaki. Sh-She's with you Shino? Pretty much. Wow, what a buzzkill. Shoo, shoo! Come by and drop some cash on us every once in a while! Um, thanks. That's what happens when you dress like that. They belong to my Bro. Thought that was about the size of it. This way! Where are you going?! I won't do anything bad! Come on! You'll be left behind, young master! The things they sell here are what the prostitutes use when not on the job. They're in-your-face publicly, but secretly they have class. Women really do have two sides. I'll buy you something. It's thanks for before. Pick anything you like. I-I can't... just choose...? Just like that? Oh, nice to see you, Shino, my dear. What can I do for you today? Show her a tsumugi kimono or something that suits springtime. Oh my... what a darling girl. Well then, Shino, go loosen the second on the left. You just order your customers around, huh? No, no, the next but one. Stupid. Good, good. I just got a wonderful one in. Good, good and stop. I'll be down with you in just a moment. Sorry... don't want it. Huh? This wouldn't suit me! Maybe someone else... not me. You should save that for after you've tried it on! So true. And if it doesn't suit, you can always change yourself. That was deep. Wasn't it, though? Why do you do this to me? My dear, are you his girlfriend? No, it's not like that. He's not easy to approach and he doesn't minch words, but Shino is a gentleman in every sense. He is a wonderful person who treats everyone equally. It suits you more than well. Your heart will catch up before long. Dear me, is my face that large? One kimono beauty, made to order. Wow...You really were a woman. What's that supposed to mean? Oy, tailor. Add in a matching hairpin and sandals. As you wish, sir. Please show up, Hamaji. I'll take all the blame. You seem to know a lot of people around here. I guess. Is it the girls? Well, a girl, yeah. Actually, I had something I needed to tell her today, but I can't do it. I'm about to turn tail and run. Stinks, doesn't it? This is Ohaguro-dobu, one of Yoshiwara's claims to fame. Ohaguro is that black stuff that married women cover their teeth with. Prostitutes who left the game, babies with no one to take them. They just end up chucked into this ditch. The other face of Yoshiwara. I guess this too is a hidden side of women. Hey, do you have someone special to you? Why do you ask that? I just thought, I wish I had what he does. This is the only gate, so if you wait here, you'll be able to meet up. See ya, Hamaji the Hunter Girl. How do you know my name? I read the letter from your brother, remember? That's not fair! You still haven't told me yours! Will you remember it? It's Shino. Shino. Thank you..., for the kimono. I don't need thanks. I was just paying you back. Right... we're even, then. Even, huh. You're a strange one. Hamaji! I've been looking for you, my cute little partner. Hey... Did you find any fuse? Haha, nope. None to be found. The shops are all shutting. Let's take a look at the night-time cherry blossoms and head home. It's the twilight bell. Now is when Yoshiwara really gets going. When the night stalls begin in earnest. Yoshiwara Saiken! I'll take one! The courtesan parade is starting! I heard it's Itezuru today! Itezuru? She hardly ever shows! Let's go worship! The apex of the pleasure quarter. They say she's so beautiful you forget to breathe. So like... you want to see her? Yeah. Oh, here we go, here we go! The maiden's descended from heaven. Look at that, she's so white it's like she has no blood. I haven't got the breath to sigh. Wow, that just melts your heart. Courtesans really are somethin' else. Hey, Hamaji! Get over here already, this is magnificent! I'm trying! I can't see anything! Here! Grab on! Bro! Sorry... my hand slipped. She's a fuse. Oh, come on. There are eight segments on her calf. Peony. Bruise. Beast. Smell. It can't be... Courtesan Itezuru is a... She's a fuse! Scary as hell. She can suck my life-orb out any day! This ain't a joke! Run, you idiots! Such disrespect! Begone, you plebeians! This is a hunt! Amateurs shouldn't get involved! What a strange guest we have here! She's a fuse!! There's a fuse on the loose!! She takes your breath away? Let's go Hamaji! Great job finding her out, my talented sister! She's swift! Officer and reward money! That's either a dead end or its cuts through! Let's pincer her at the big cherry blossom tree! Got it! Don't panic! You too! Tell me... why? Why don't you come to see me? It's been ten days since the date we arranged. Tell me. Shinbee! Tell the truth, I wanted our meeting to be in bed... Don't hate me for this, Courtesan!! Don't make this drag! Just leave me alone. I'm in enough pain as it is, recently. Ditching your customer, eh? That sucks! Bro!! What, Itezuru? No way, that's gotta be jealous rumors from the prostitutes. Yeah, I mean she made it to the top inside this year. So fast! I hope my Bro didn't get hurt! I-I'm so sorry. No, uh... Thank you very much. Sorry, but I'm in a hurry. Please tell me this pathway widens at the end! Uhh... I can wait for you to finish eating, But could I possibly ask you to pull me out? Calm down. This is no different from when I was in the mountains! Connected! Did I get her?! Maybe I should go to see Shinbee now. No, that'd just cause trouble for him. Why let him be hunted too? I extend you my warmest welcome. You're a fuse, aren't you? You can't run anymore. Run? There was never anywhere for us fuse to run in the first place. So Ohaguro-dobu is where I meet my end. That's so pitiful I'm almost laughing. And this... marks my retirement. I'm not afraid to die. Now, hurry up and do it. Little girl. Oh, you're feminine alright. It's obvious that you're just disguised as a man. You're scared of being a woman, aren't you? Shut up! As a fellow woman, I hope you will listen to my last request. Don't make sudden movements!! Take this to Shinbee on Mount Atago in Shiba. Why do I― I'll give you my head. Won't you do this... to call it even? Did you know? The character for "fuse" is written as "person" next to "dog". I can't read... Hamaji! Out of the way!! Bro! Fare thee well... Word is the seventh fuse has been hunted! Hurry, hurry! Who did it?! Hey Kisuke! go call an officer! We have too report this to the authorities! Bro. We did it, Hamaji. Fire! One, Three, Four! Keep the barrel level with your left hand, and fire from the dead center of your body! Load the next bullet! Readyyy! Sir! Only one left. Glistening when drawn, O great blade of justice, Murasamemaru shield our pure blood from impostors who press us to open our doors. Please lend me the last of your power. And bring justice to those who are evil! The maggots have started on it. Daikaku. Take this with you when you leave. Yes. Commissioner Aboji. Yes, my Lord. How are the preparations for the Carnival? My Lord, I must advise that in your present state of health, holding a Festival at this juncture would be― That is exactly why we must hold it. Everyone is uneasy. Why don't we open up the Castle, and offer grand recreation for them? That sounds perfect. Daikaku! Will you please learn to― The people of the Castle are constantly concerned about their safety. I am sure the citizenry will be overjoyed as his Lordship's consideration. I thought so! I have to see these events through to the end. For riding Yoshiwara of the fuse, you are truly worthy of commendation. Thank you. Thank you. His Lordship is most pleased that matters were settled without undue disturbance. Such being the case, I present you the reward money as promised. For now, the first 100 ryo. It is somewhat cumbersome, therefore the remaining 400 will be delivered tomorrow by envoys. Thank you!! In installments! Installments? D-Do you understand what you're saying?! Sir, could we arrange for this money to be delivered a small amount at a time? Idiots don't go in for that kind of reserved crap! Let's hear your reasoning. I just think becoming an overnight millionaire is kind of unfair to everyone else. Discipline of frugality, is it... very well. I hear that it was a joint effort between you brothers, so you are afforded a say. B-Brothers? I, I really think― Installments!! Add the onion and mitsuba to it as you like, okay? Grandpa told me that hunting was about making connections. We splashed out on this. Go on, eat. At that moment in Yoshiwara I... connected with that fuse. Yet... we still aren't even. Please come again! Hey, Hamaji... maybe we should we split up and look for the last one. Yeah, good idea. It might be faster that way. Describe where the house is? Riverside houses by Kozakura Bridge. Right, well done. A Carnival? What's that about? Lord Iesada will be extending us commoners an invitation into the Castle! That Shogun must be feeling a bit forlorn. A chance for everyone to party as a unit, before the Country opens its doors. You help too, Dousetsu! A festival, huh. Pretty extravagant. What happened to you becoming an officer? Don't hold out on us, O learned one! Honestly, I stopped giving a crap around about when I got the cash. Just gonna live and drink for a while. Hey, hold on! Dousetsu! What? We have to talk. Can you make some time tonight? This isn't so you can press me about my tab, right? I'll be here waiting. ...Right. Excuse me... hello? I knew it! You are Ooyama Dousetsu, the man who took care of the fuse, are you not? S-Sure, that's me. I have been entrusted with a message for you, you see... Please take this. What's this? Some kind of ticket for a play? Yes! Is this the Fukagawa Troupe?! That's right! Thank you very much! I came here today to present you with an invitation to our wakashu-kabuki show. Naturally, your gun-wielding little sister, and all of you are also invited! Yeah! No problems in Edo again today. What is that? Is this... me? Kawaraban. Three mon each. You're the one who's been selling these, aren't you?! You're that― I might not be able to read but I sure understand pictures! You've got me as a man here, haven't you?! That's pretty rude, you know! You're... a girl? Yes I am! Do it over! Can't. Already did the woodcut. Woodcut? To be able to make something like this you're really something! Oh, oh no... it's really not that hard. Is that your latest? I'll take one. You there, boy! I'll take one too! Why boy... How much are they? Oh, umm... Three mon each!! Kawaraban! Get your kawaraban! Three mon each! Latest issue on fuse-hunting! Kawaraban! Mount Atago in Shiba? Yeah. Do you know where it is? Is it close? It might be a little far if you walked. If you went by boat down the main river, I think you'd arrive by sunset, though. Thanks. You're amazing, Meido. Only my age and making kawaraban. Getting rid of fuse is way more impressive. But, well, my Grandpa works with novels, so that might have been part of it. I totally get that! I became a Hunter because of Grandpa. Did you like your Grandpa? I'm always at loggerheads with mine. Ever since his eyes went bad, he makes my mother do everything for him. So I'm refusing to talk to him, to get my own back. Sounds hard on everyone. Yeah. I almost hate myself for acting this way. It's Hamaji! Hm? Quick at spotting the women, aren't you, my slick little chappy? Heeeeeey! Hamaji!! We're just going to call old man Zanzou! You wanna come see the kabuki too? Kabuki? The Fukagawa Troupe! Everyone else is there already! It's a small theater act that's been popular recently. They're performing on Mount Atago in Shiba. You wanna come too, Miss? It's called wakashu-kabuki. It's a type of play featuring only men. So even the female roles are played by men? Yep. Oomori Kokubyaku there is a really popular actor. Big names from Saruwaka tried to recruit him, apparently. The line's moving. Kokubyaku, it is almost time. The guests you invited have arrived. Right. Satomi Hakkenden... Wow. So the original work was a sad story about dogs and humans? Precisely. It's a story of bittersweet love. Aw, man... I thought we were gonna be seeing some sword fights. Well, you aren't. A love story, huh? I thought there a lot of women here. Funamushi really should've come. Well, y'know. She said she didn't feel like it, what more can you do? Hey, this kabuki is one of those "counterfeit" works, right? Counterfeit? Yes, seems like it. One of those impostors works where they mess around with books. Gansaku! (Counterfeit) No, no! My name is Bansaku! You seem pretty knowledgeable about all this, little miss. Yes. My Grandpa was the one who wrote Hakkenden. Takizawa Bakin. My Grandpa. The Sengoku period, in Awa Province. This is the story of a one great man, chosen by his family's treasured sword, Murasamemaru. His name, Satomi Yoshizane. Within his castle of Tsurishiro, one night, a jewel of a baby girl was born. She is as beautiful as the full moon that shines this night. I shall conceal you in the Castle, conceal you from the people of the village, and you shall discard the self, and live a life of peace and kindness. And so the girl was named "Fuse," meaning "conceal." Time flows on seventeen years. I see. So this is how they're spinning it. My god, here he comes, Princess Fuse! Look at me, Koku!! As a child, the princess ran across fields and climbed mountains. She never concerned herself with reading, and was almost like a boy. He's the romantic Kokubyaku we were talking about. However, after taking in a dog with fur like white velvet, called "Yatsufusa", or Eight Spots, Princess Fuse started becoming considerably more feminine. As if he were her double, Yatsufusa darted around fields and climbed mountains, while Princess Fuse gazed at him lovingly. Shino! My god, he's beautiful! If he's a man and pretty as that, that puts this ugly lot to shame. Sadly, these happy days were not to last long for Princess Fuse. Anzai Kagetsura from the neighboring province made a sudden invasion! A crisis for Yoshizane. Cornered, he vowed: whosoever brings him the head of the enemy general, shall be rewarded with Princess Fuse's hand in marriage! A shock! The one who brought him Kagetsura's head was Princess Fuse's beloved dog, Yatsufusa! And so, as promised, the dog and the woman became husband and wife. Hamaji. When the play ends, I'll be waiting in the back shrine. But there is more to this story. The story goes that Princess Fuse and Yatsufusa had a child together! I cannot permit this! For my daughter, a daughter of the Satomi family, to bear the child of a hound! Farewell, all those I loved. I shall take Yatsufusa and this child, and live away from the Castle. The woman and the dog vanished into the Forest of Fuse, far from civilization, Bye bye! Come again!! and some say, the life the Princess carried that day, was the beginning of what would, in later era, become knows as the "fuse". But that is a story for another play. Thank you for coming! Thank you for coming! We hope for your continued patronage! We await your next visit! Bro? Hm? What's up? I forgot to buy an actor portrait. You wanted one of those? I'll buy ya one. Don't worry, I have money. Could you... go on ahead? I'm sure I'll catch right up. Hamaji... don't be too long. Okay. I didn't call out to her, but Hamaji turned around anyway. In that moment, we had connected. Shino?! What's it they call this, a duck carrying green onions? Except in this case, its carrying a huge gun. Let go! Who are you people?! Oh, that makes me sad. We know all about you. That you have connections with a fuse. She's a girl?! It's gonna be a fun night tonight! Where is that fuse now? If you don't answer, I'll break your jaw. All the fates were against you guys. My throat was parched again today. I always suspected... you were the last... Shi― You know, I've been wanting to eat your life-orb so damn bad! Now kill me, please... with that gun of yours... kill me!! I just came over to deliver a letter to Shinbee― He's long dead! Shinbee was Itezuru's child. The child of a fuse and a human. I don't know who the father was. A child is a death knell for a courtesan, so normally I was taking care of him. She was only a mother to him once a month. I'd pretend to be a customer. Sneak him in to see her. Hurry the hell back home! Hunter girl! Funamushi! I was waiting till I became an officer, but... Would you... be my wife? I want to work, and I don't want to give in. All this... scares me a lot too! Give me... a little time Hamaji! Any luck? Nothing! Looks like she's got herself lost. Damn it! Hey! Take an umbrella! Excuse me... Hello? Are you alright? Um, is Meido here? Huh? Meido... give me a moment. Hamaji?! What happened to you? So warm... Otai, could you carry her in? Certainly, Madam! I'll go ahead and boil some water. Yes, Madam! Did you write this as well? Don't, don't! It's still written really badly. A new kawaraban? No. A yomihon. A story. But it's no good at all. It's so tricky. Doesn't feel like you have a fever. You were just cold. So you're going to be a learned author of yomihon. Oh, don't! It's just a dream of mine. I'm nothing next to the the fuse-hunting girl. I can't do that anymore. I can't fire another bullet. I was hoping you could read this for me. Love letter? No. Just a letter with no place to go. That will do for tonight. I will drive out all the impostors. Please choose me. Murasamemaru, Murasamemaru, Murasamemaru, Murasamemaru... I understand your desire to humor Lord Iesada. But we warriors serve the long history of Tokugawa behind his Lordship. There is no other option but to have him stay put tomorrow. How is your progress? Around five p.m., the curtain will open on the special stage. And you said he was called... kokubyaku? On my remaining eye, sir, I swear my information is accurate. There's a big lake past where all the stallholders are lined up. That's where we have the overwater stage. Wow, that's nuts! A stage just for us! It is more than we deserve. Thank you very much. The wives of the noblemen will be observing from across Gejou Bridge. Do not point your rear ends toward them. Of course not! My ass will be firmly under control! Ummm, where are the lavatories? Lavatories? Hmm, right. This one here's closet. But don't go beyond that. is this a road? A bridge? You don't know how to read maps? Here's the bridge! Main tower! Stage! Ah, excuse me. Hamari... I can call you that, can't I? Would you care to join us for some breakfast? We have plenty more. Right! Thank you very much! I'm really sorry for worrying you! I'm completely fine now! This is Meido's Grandfather. His name is Bakin. I-It's a pleasure to meet you! I've heard a lot of tales about you from your granddaughter! He's writing a yomihon, you know. I know. It's really popular among the people of Edo, isn't it? I can't read, so I didn't know about it at all! You can't read? Nope! So I'm getting Meido to read it to me! Satoimo Hakkenden! Idiot! Satomi Hakkenden! Ahah...! Uh, I'm sorry, Mister Bakin... No, no. There's no need to apologize. Since my eyesight deteriorated, I too have been relying on Omichi here to write for me. Please don't apologize. I guess we're not so different, if neither of us can read or write! What? Hey! What's so funny?! Someone explain! You two should go together to the Carnival Lord Iesada is holding today. I hear there will be lots of stalls. What do you want to do, Hamaji? The festival at Edo Castle. Festival? Ah, oh yeah, the Fukagawa Troupe we saw yesterday will be there performing as well! So that's why he― The food was delicious, thank you very much! H-Hey, wait a sec! Hamaji, where are you going?! I finally figured out where I have to take this letter! Thank you! huh? I think you got your stubbornness from your Grandpa! Hey!! Hamaji!! Bro? Sorry. I'm... sorry too for worrying you. Hamaji, I'm gonna be a parent. Funamushi is with child. I might not look like much of a parent now, but I think I just have to change myself until I do. It'll happen! I'm sure you'll catch up in no time! I got a lead on the last one. I'm going fuse-hunting! Hey, Hamaji! Don't kill it! Just make things even! I love you, Bro! An overwater stage with the main tower beautifully reflected. Oh, no... I'm getting jittery already! Don't pee yourself! You wait till we're on stage! I'll mess everything up for you! Don't take him seriously. He's just teasing. Look. Up there. Look at that amazing Tower. What a marvel. Let's make this a good one. What is it? Kokubyaku? It was on your back. A cabbage white butterfly! Now that does bode well! Do you have any water? You look unwell. Drank too much last night. You are the members of the Fukagawa Troupe? Ah, yes, sir! We cannot thank you enough for calling on us to perform for you today! The actor calling himself kokubyaku would be that man there, correct? It is I who should thank you! Guards, take him away! That man is the last fuse! I know you remember me. Oh dear, do I have a fan? Kokubyaku, what on earth is going on? Good question! I'm terribly sorry, my familiar friend, but the play hasn't started yet! Wrong. Playtime is already over! Oy, fuse!! I'm not feeling nice today! You took the words right out of my mouth! Don't come any closer! Kokubyaku... you're tellin' me you were a fuse? Why did you stop?! Tell me you're still acting! Play the part through to the end! Then I could have kept believing in you! Sorry. The act is already over. After him, after him! Do not let him into building! Shinbee. Each time you ask when you can see me again, torrential rain pours down inside my heart. That rain water builds, and builds, and when it has filled me to the point of overflowing, I will be able to see you again. That is my belief. I'm sure that at that time, the rain will become a river of joyous tears. Shinbee, do you remember the wet plate photograph we took in Yokohama? I am always gazing at that photograph, and recalling your round forehead, your cheeks as soft as mochi, and your delicate little hands. Whenever I make to let go of your hand, you always know it is time, and ask me, "Hey, when can I see you again?" Hamaji? You're in a hurry, aren't you? I'll take you. You've got a whole hour before the play starts. Don't worry. You'll make it. Thanks. Umm, I hope you'll let me hold the baby too! Face forward. You know, I just stopped caring about what it means to be womanly or manly. Dousetsu got mad at me. Told me to be honest to my feelings. And then I won't be scared anymore. Well, yes... take away the honesty from my bro, and there's really nothing left! I'm going to try my hand at being a mother. All done! Kapow, you're a girl! Right! Funamushi! I'm going ahead! Go for it! We'll be waiting back home! Thanks! Aahh, I just had that looking nice. If you want your life-orbs eaten, make sure you form a nice neat line! He's going inside the keep! Damn it, if only he didn't have that hostage. Send the firearms unit to cut him off. But, Commissioner Aboji― I don't care! There's no national shortage of third-rate Samurai! Form a line!! Ready ammunition!! Wow, you've been betrayed by your masters along with me. Too bad for you. A dog might whine about it, but sorry to disappoint, I'm a human. I'm used to being betrayed. The stairs at the back of the Inui Turret. Iesada is on the top floor. Now go. There! There! There!! Fire!! Anyone seen my katana?! The fire basket! Someone call for help! I'll be waiting for ya in the next world with a hot cup of cheap tea! I'm here to hunt the fuse!! Hey, hold it! Damn that fuse... He plans to go right inside! Hurry up and shoot him dead! Commissioner Aboji! It's dangerous to shoot around here! We have to evacuate the people who came for the festival before― Silence! I'll authorize it! The fuse is Hamaji's prey, right? Yep. Let's use the human bamboo-copter. Up for it, eh? You're the son of a street vendor all right. Readyyy!! Commissioner, let's have some fun!! Commissioner Aboji... Hey, you!! Trade it in for a bow, ya novice! Wh-What the hell is she doing?! Keep your hands off that fuse! He's my prey! Girl or not, show no mercy! Fire! Fire!! Owww... Hold it, hold it! It's Yatsufusa! You're Kokubyaku's girlfriend, right? I'm just headed to the lavatories inside the Castle, would you please come with me? ...Oh! I've been waiting for you! Someone bring the water from the rain water tanks! Fire brigade! Someone call the fire brigade! First priority is the tower! Don't let the flames build any higher! Fire! Get out of here now! I heard the fuse started it! I will drive out the impostors. I have removed the bolt. I advise you leave that place before the flames reach you! I will be waiting here. For the end of this story. I must make clear which one of us is the fake! Or my life will not even begin. You damn hound! Stay where you are, I will put you down! I'd like to at least choose how I die. I didn't think being alone felt so cold... Ow, ow! We don't have the time to be fussing about with fire!! Put it out quick! Sprint to the well! Commissioner, sir! If you're really a samurai, untie the women and children at least! They're just gonna burn to death! Tokugawa does not discriminate among those who oppose it. If you don't want to burn... I can lop off these branches and your head at the same time. Dad! Now, I can't let that one go! Cherry blossoms may stand and wait for their petals to scatter, but if that is the way of a samurai, it's the most pathetic thing I ever heard. He is the jobless ronin who dispatched the fuse in Naka. Amusing. Draw, you impudent fool! D-Dousetsu... No more installments. From now on, I will give and take everything owed in one lump sum! Attack! They aren't dead. Don't panic. Oy, local hero! Dousetsu! Open all the gates, and we'll all carry the moat water in together. You think I will take orders from plebeians?! You blockhead! You blockhead! This is not a time or situation to be discriminating over status! Carry it!! Wind... It's going to fan the flames. We'll need all your help. Sure! Shino!! Shino!! Murasamemaru has chosen me. Welcome to the Forest of Fuse. You must be the last one? What do I have to do, bark? I have been waiting for you a long time. Your white fur is very pretty. If I eat your life-orb, it will become even shinier. Now, let us bring the end to what has been started. Of course. Glistening when drawn, O great blade of justice! It shall reap your head!! Perish, fuse!! This has all been wrong since my daughter conceived the child of a dog! And that's your excuse for killing my kind?! Accept it! Then you will not fear the future! Silence, impostor! What is that? Your kind were a mistake, born wrongly into this world! Born wrongly into this world... such a thing has never been!! This blade alone chose me! You're not the only one who's been fighting desperately for his people! You think that killing me, a counterfeit, will make you a proper Shogun?! Precisely!! Offer your life to those who are authentic!! Even an impostor is real if he lives in earnest! Even I... concealed myself in the castle... concealed myself from my people... discarded the self. I don't want it. If I eat your life-orb, I see myself becoming as much of a wreck as you. Otai, I already piled up Bakin's manuscripts. Go give a shout to Meido. The flames will be here soon. This blasted yomihon. It should burn with the rest of the place. In writing the Hakkenden yomihon, I wanted to establish fuse as right and proper. I wanted to give them a place. And yet, no matter how much I wrote, in the end, stories were nothing more than shams! I'm so sorry, Omichi. Sorry to you all. Move it! Move it! The fire's spread that way! Don't let it spook you! And the fuse? Farewell, all those I loved. I shall live away from the Castle. Don't go!! Hunter girl... Itezuru and Shinbee weren't eating life-orbs... They were cheering each other up with letters and trying to resist it! You have to have this! Hurry!! I can't... My foot... won't hold! You were holding it in for me, trying not to eat life-orbs, weren't you? That's what you called me out after the play to tell me, isn't it? Just stop. Only I am doomed to die. Don't feel guilty about surviving. Shino... I love you. If it gets too much to bear, you can eat my life-orb. Will you... stay connected to me forever? Yeah. I won't kill anymore. Can we call it even? Tear down that police box while there's still time! We'll check it from spreading! Thank goodness. It's a sudden shower. The sky's crying. They call these tears of joy. Yeaahh! Hamaji... He's gone. He left me here, in the same place we met. He'll come back, though, right? Hey, Meido? Would you teach me how to write? Sure. But why? I was thinking about writing him a letter. Look at that, Hamaji! Oh, wow! Meido! Come on, are you nearly ready? We need to get going! Go ahead of me! I'll be right after you! "Inga". Cause and effect. "In" is the start of things, and "ga" is their end. It takes both to form a story. I can't think of a conclusion!! Funamushi opened a cafe. Her fluffy egg clam parcels gained popularity quickly, and she even receives regulars from mansions and temples. Every day is busy. Come on, guys, bunch up more! Where am I, where am I... Boooo! Count to ten. Okay. One! Two! Three! Four! Five! Six! Seven! Eight! Nine! Ten! Stop moving... Stay still, would ya! Ow! He couldn't become an officer, but Dousetsu is now a dual-wielding samurai, commanding both a pellet and a bamboo-copter. What do you say, my Lord? A drink before the fireworks? You are a shinobi. I hardly think it is befitting to become rowdy. I think I will. Even I would like to unwind sometimes. Come now, fill it up. The fires and quarrels for which Edo is so well known died down, and the Era of Tokugawa returned to stability. The eight fuse was firmly apprehended, and its head placed on display. Worry not. To my eyes, it is a grotesque head, severed brutally at neck. I pray that people will always have dogs by their side. So, I'll write the next part of the story, then! Coming and going between fiction and reality requires resolve, you know. I'm ready for it. There she is... I knew it. She climbed all the way up there again! So what is it? Brought me a scoop? Something funny? Don't tease, just tell me already, Hamaji! You won't put it in the kawaraban? I won't, I won't! I've never done anything like that! I got a reply! From Shino! It's started! A letter arrived from the fuse. Perfect. That will be the "effect" of this book, yes, its conclusion. OKOUCHI ICHIRO OKOUCHI ICHIRO To Hamaji
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