# Season 1
# E1 - A Lady Out of Place
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G0DUNK2DQ/a-lady-out-of-place)
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(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:33] Yukiya**
Yukichi!
**[00:37] Yukiya**
Yukichi! Yukichi!
**[01:06] Yukiya**
H-Help me.
**[01:08] Yukiya**
Please help.
**[01:09] Yukiya**
Save my brother!
**[01:11] Yukiya**
I beg you! I don't mind if I die! So please!
**[01:33] Yukiya**
A golden raven?
**[01:41] Nazukihiko**
Have no fear. I'll return
both of you to your nests.
**[01:46] Nazukihiko**
We may meet again someday.
**[01:50] Nazukihiko**
For now, forget and go to sleep.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Yamauchi
**[02:05] Narrator**
*Yamauchi.*
***SIGN*** The yatagarasu race
has long called
this land of
deep mountains home
**[02:07] Narrator**
* The yatagarasu race has long called*
* this land of deep mountains home.*
**[02:18] Narrator**
* Once these strange, three-legged birds*
* took human form and trod the earth,*
**[02:26] Narrator**
*they tilled fields and built towns.*
**[02:31] Narrator**
* The lord of the yatagarasu is*
* called the kin'u: the Golden Raven.*
***SIGN*** The lord of the yatagarasu
is called the kin'u:
the Golden Raven
**[02:36] Narrator**
* The kin'u wields supreme*
* authority in Yamauchi.*
**[02:40] Narrator**
* The title is passed from parent*
* to child, generation to generation.*
**[02:45] Narrator**
* The kin'u has long ruled the people well*
* and has brought plenty to Yamauchi.*
**[02:53] Narrator**
* Yet its history has also been replete with*
* scheming by those who flock to the throne.*
**[03:01] Narrator**
* The plots reach their height in*
* the choice of the crown prince's consort:*
***SIGN*** Rite of
Ascension
**[03:06] Narrator**
*the Rite of Ascension.*
**[03:09] Narrator**
* Noblewomen contest a single place*
* at the future kin'u's side.*
**[03:16] Narrator**
* They shoulder their families' fates*
* in the fierce battle about to unfold.*
***SIGN*** Wisteria Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[03:29] Empress**
What do you say to "Asebi"?
**[03:32] Asebi**
"Asebi"?
**[03:34] Empress**
As your alias.
**[03:38] Empress**
A lady who might marry
the Prince, however lowly,
**[03:43] Empress**
can hardly remain
a nameless second daughter.
**[03:46] Empress**
Or does my choice of name dissatisfy you?
**[03:51] Asebi**
P-Perish the thought!
**[03:53] Asebi**
A name from Your Majesty's own lips
honors me more than I deserve.
**[03:58] Ladies-in-Waiting**
Goodness.
**[04:00] Ladies-in-Waiting**
"Asebi," she said.
**[04:00] Ladies-in-Waiting**
Her Majesty took the joke too far.
**[04:03] Ladies-in-Waiting**
Does the girl not realize?
**[04:04] Empress**
Then, let it be so, Lady Asebi.
***SIGN*** Spring Hall
**[04:09] Empress**
I leave the Spring Hall in your care.
**[04:12] Asebi**
Y-Yes, ma'am!
**[04:14] Takimoto**
Congratulations.
**[04:17] Takimoto**
Today, through the Rite of Ascension,
**[04:19] Takimoto**
you have formally entered contention
for His Highness's hand.
***SIGN*** First daughter of
the Southern House
Hamayu
**[04:24] Takimoto**
First daughter of the
Southern House, Lady Hamayu.
***SIGN*** First daughter of
the Western House
Masuho-no-Susuki
**[04:27] Takimoto**
First daughter of the Western House,
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki.
***SIGN*** Third daughter of
the Northern House
Shiratama
**[04:31] Takimoto**
Third daughter of the
Northern House, Lady Shiratama.
***SIGN*** Second daughter of
the Eastern House
Asebi
**[04:34] Takimoto**
And second daughter of
the Eastern House, Lady Asebi.
**[04:38] Takimoto**
Yet only one among you will be chosen.
**[04:42] Takimoto**
Here in the Cherry Blossom Palace,
you will spur each other to new heights,
**[04:46] Takimoto**
so that you may experience
a joyous day in one year's time.
***SIGN*** The Empress
Her Majesty
Omurasaki
**[05:04] Haruhito**
Still, I can't help feeling lonely
without our guest of honor.
**[05:10] Haruhito**
I had hoped he would accept
the invitation for once.
**[05:14] Genya**
Honestly, what is His Highness thinking?
***SIGN*** Lord of the North
Genya
**[05:18] Genya**
I wish he'd show the people sending him
their dear daughters some courtesy.
***SIGN*** Lord of the East
Haruhito
**[05:23] Haruhito**
And I believe Lady Shiratama is only 14.
**[05:26] Haruhito**
You must worry for her.
***SIGN*** Lord of the South
Toru
**[05:28] Toru**
He can't neglect the Four Houses
and still hope to govern.
**[05:33] Toru**
I don't doubt he'll realize that soon.
**[05:35] Akira**
Oh, I'm shaking in my boots!
***SIGN*** Lord of the West
Akira
**[05:37] Akira**
Whatever are you plotting?
**[05:40] Akira**
In any case, there will be no hard feelings,
no matter whose daughter he chooses.
**[05:48] Fujinami**
Sister!
***SIGN*** Princess
Fujinami
**[05:53] Asebi**
Your Highness!
**[05:56] Fujinami**
How many years has it been?
I never dreamed I'd get to see you here.
**[06:00] Asebi**
Forgive me. I didn't even write.
**[06:02] Asebi**
Seeing you well brings me
the greatest pleasure.
**[06:05] Fujinami**
Stop being so formal.
There's no need for ceremony between us.
**[06:10] Asebi**
Very well. Princess Fujinami, then.
**[06:14] Fujinami**
Still, you really have grown into a beauty.
**[06:19] Fujinami**
You're sure to catch my brother's...
I mean, His Highness's eye.
**[06:24] Asebi**
Really? Thank you.
**[06:27] Asebi**
But I wouldn't go that far.
**[06:29] Fujinami**
No, I mean it!
**[06:31] Fujinami**
I hope he chooses you.
**[06:35] Fujinami**
I mean, then we really *would* be sisters.
**[06:40] Hamayu**
You're busy winning over
His Highness's little sister already?
**[06:45] Hamayu**
Not half bad.
**[06:47] Asebi**
Um, aren't you the Southern House's—
**[06:50] Fujinami**
Lady Hamayu, you forget yourself.
**[06:52] Hamayu**
Do I? I hope you'll forgive me.
**[06:59] Hamayu**
You, uh, second daughter
of the Eastern House.
**[07:03] Asebi**
Y-Yes?
**[07:05] Hamayu**
Are you really happy to
receive a name like Asebi?
**[07:11] Asebi**
Yes. It's a lovely name.
**[07:15] Hamayu**
If that doesn't top it all!
**[07:17] Fujinami**
Hamayu!
**[07:18] Asebi**
Um, did I say something odd?
**[07:21] Ukogi**
My lady, allow me to explain—
**[07:24] Masuho**
You write "asebi" as
"horse intoxicating tree."
**[07:32] Masuho**
Asebi flowers have poison in them.
**[07:37] Masuho**
Nibbling on them makes
horses disgracefully drunk.
**[07:42] Masuho**
The flowers symbolize you.
And the horse...
**[07:48] Hamayu**
Tell her straight. Don't try to dress it up.
**[07:50] Hamayu**
The "horse" is the Prince.
**[07:53] Asebi**
What?
**[07:54] Hamayu**
"Just like brainless horses
get drunk eating asebi,
**[07:58] Hamayu**
a man of the Prince's caliber
will lose his wits over you."
**[08:03] Hamayu**
"So have at it."
**[08:05] Hamayu**
Basically, the Empress used
your alias to insult the Prince.
**[08:12] Hamayu**
It's just the sort of thing she would do.
**[08:15] Asebi**
What? His Highness, a horse? I never—
**[08:18] Ukogi**
My lady! You mustn't say another word!
**[08:23] Asebi**
Princess Fujinami...
**[08:26] Masuho**
What a shame. After hearing
her dear brother so insulted, well...
**[08:32] Masuho**
You aren't to blame.
Allow me to reintroduce myself.
**[08:36] Masuho**
I am Masuho-no-Susuki,
first daughter of the Western House.
**[08:39] Asebi**
Oh, I'm—
**[08:41] Masuho**
I love beautiful and charming things.
**[08:45] Masuho**
I think we could be great friends.
**[08:48] Asebi**
Y-Yes.
**[08:50] Masuho**
Still, my condolences on attracting
such unpleasant attention.
**[08:55] Hamayu**
Hah. There's that western "friendliness"!
**[08:58] Masuho**
Better a people pleaser
than a greedy southern boor.
**[09:02] Hamayu**
The Southern House is honest.
**[09:04] Hamayu**
We can't fake smiles that shamelessly.
**[09:07] Masuho**
How nice for you.
**[09:08] Masuho**
I suggest welcoming
His Highness with a frown, then.
**[09:11] Asebi**
U-Um...
**[09:12] Hamayu**
Yes, I think I will.
**[09:13] Shiratama**
They don't consider you a threat.
**[09:16] Asebi**
Lady Shiratama?
**[09:18] Shiratama**
They don't think either
of us could ever be chosen.
**[09:26] Hamayu**
That's enough.
Any more will spoil my drinks.
**[09:31] Masuho**
Well then, if you'll all excuse me.
***SIGN*** Spring Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[09:48] Ukogi**
I should have explained
the situation more clearly.
***SIGN*** Eastern lady-in-waiting
Ukogi
**[09:52] Ukogi**
Everyone ascends to the palace
determined to be chosen.
**[09:55] Ukogi**
Every house leaps at the chance
to make one of its ladies a kin'u's bride.
**[10:01] Asebi**
I'm exhausted. I can't even tell what...
***SIGN*** m 0 0 l 0 0 b 5 -3 10 -4 14 -4 l 42 51 b 38 51 33 52 27 56 l 0 0
***SIGN*** The Singing Beak of Yamauchi
**[10:07] Ukogi**
*The Singing Beak of Yamauchi*.
We'll begin your studies here.
**[10:11] Ukogi**
Remember, my lady?
I read it to you when you were little.
**[10:15] Asebi**
Oh, the book that put me to sleep—
**[10:18] Ukogi**
My lady!
**[10:19] Ukogi**
We'll start with the absolute basics
and review Yamauchi's origins.
**[10:24] Ukogi**
Pay close attention.
**[10:27] Ukogi**
When the Mountain God visited this land,
water gushed from its peaks.
**[10:33] Ukogi**
Soon, trees, flowers,
and ears of rice hung heavy.
**[10:38] Ukogi**
The Mountain God named
the bounteous land Yamauchi,
**[10:42] Ukogi**
and appointed a golden raven
to rule it in his stead.
**[10:46] Ukogi**
The golden raven apportioned
lands to his four children.
**[10:50] Ukogi**
To the first, an eastern land
awash with flowers.
**[10:53] Ukogi**
To the second, a southern land
ripe with fruit.
**[10:57] Ukogi**
To the third, a western land
thick with rice.
**[11:00] Ukogi**
To the fourth, a northern land
gushing with springs.
**[11:04] Ukogi**
Thus began the domains of the Four Houses.
***SIGN*** Royal House
***SIGN*** Royal House
***SIGN*** Northern
House
***SIGN*** Northern
House
***SIGN*** Eastern
House
***SIGN*** Eastern
House
***SIGN*** Southern
House
***SIGN*** Southern
House
***SIGN*** Western
House
***SIGN*** Western
House
**[11:07] Ukogi**
Meanwhile, the golden raven
gained the name of "kin'u,"
**[11:10] Ukogi**
and his line would dwell on the
central peak, closest to the Mountain God.
**[11:16] Ukogi**
In contrast to the Four Houses,
this royal house...
**[11:19] Ukogi**
My lady! Are you awake?
**[11:22] Asebi**
O-Of course I am!
**[11:24] Asebi**
The kin'u serves the Mountain God,
maintaining peace in Yamauchi, right?
**[11:29] Ukogi**
Exactly.
**[11:31] Ukogi**
His Highness may be crown prince now,
**[11:34] Ukogi**
but he will accede as kin'u
before much longer.
**[11:37] Ukogi**
To become his consort is to
uphold the peace in Yamauchi.
**[11:42] Ukogi**
Every house that sends
a daughter takes pride in that.
**[11:47] Ukogi**
Or so they say in public.
**[11:49] Asebi**
Huh?
**[11:50] Ukogi**
This is war!
**[11:52] Asebi**
W-War?
**[11:54] Ukogi**
Royal authority touches all political
and economic life in Yamauchi.
**[11:58] Ukogi**
Naturally, the kin'u's consort
receives a share of that power.
**[12:02] Asebi**
You mean the Empress?
**[12:06] Ukogi**
Every consort brings vast wealth
and power to the house that sent her.
**[12:13] Ukogi**
Any children brings them even closer
to royalty as guardians and caretakers,
**[12:19] Ukogi**
and a male child will
become kin'u himself one day.
**[12:23] Asebi**
And that house's future will be secure.
**[12:25] Ukogi**
Precisely.
***SIGN*** Royal House
***SIGN*** Royal House
***SIGN*** Northern
House
***SIGN*** Northern
House
***SIGN*** Eastern
House
***SIGN*** Eastern
House
***SIGN*** Southern
House
***SIGN*** Southern
House
***SIGN*** Western
House
***SIGN*** Western
House
**[12:27] Ukogi**
So this rite is a proxy war by ladies
on behalf of the Four Houses!
**[12:35] Asebi**
That explains it. No wonder they don't take
a provincial know-nothing like me seriously.
**[12:39] Ukogi**
You mustn't lose heart!
**[12:41] Lady-in-waiting 1**
My lady.
**[12:43] Lady-in-waiting 1**
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki of the Autumn Hall
has sent you a gift by way of greeting.
**[12:51] Asebi**
A sappanwood red gown!
**[12:53] Asebi**
And look at this fine embroidery!
**[12:56] Ukogi**
Wh-Wh-Why, it's magnificent!
**[12:58] Ukogi**
Oh, whatever shall we send in return?
**[13:00] Masuho**
*I am hosting a tea party tomorrow.*
**[13:03] Masuho**
*Please feel free to attend.*
**[13:07] Asebi**
I've never been to
a friend's tea party before!
**[13:10] Asebi**
What a wonderful person
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki turned out to be!
**[13:30] Empress**
I see a "Lady Raven" has slipped
into the palace this time.
**[13:36] Empress**
We hardly need panic to remove her.
**[13:40] Empress**
Her presence may nudge things
in the right direction.
***SIGN*** His Reigning Majesty
**[13:54] Empress**
Let us enjoy her antics to the fullest,
**[13:58] Empress**
along with His Highness's own performance.
**[14:20] Kikuno**
Lady Shiratama presents this incense.
***SIGN*** Autumn Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[14:25] Cha-no-Hana**
The Northern House has
treasured it for generations.
***SIGN*** Northern lady-in-waiting
Cha-no-Hana
**[14:28] Cha-no-Hana**
Its production and composition remain
the most closely guarded of secrets.
**[14:32] Cha-no-hana**
We bring it today especially for your—
**[14:35] Masuho**
It certainly is an uncommon fragrance.
**[14:38] Masuho**
Perhaps a bit heavy on cloves.
**[14:40] Masuho**
Well, it reminds me of *kurobo*,
so I can guess at its composition.
***SIGN*** Western lady-in-waiting
Kikuno
**[14:48] Masuho**
Shiratama, what do you think of my incense?
**[14:51] Shiratama**
A bit heavy on musk, perhaps.
**[14:54] Shiratama**
And it rather reminds me of jasmine.
**[14:57] Masuho**
I'm impressed you can tell.
**[14:59] Kikuno**
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki
compounded it herself.
**[15:03] Asebi**
What are they doing, Ukogi?
**[15:05] Ukogi**
Identifying the elements
of incense as a game.
**[15:07] Ukogi**
Oh, I was right to have
a bad feeling about this.
**[15:10] Masuho**
Lady Asebi, would you tell us
about your fragrance?
**[15:14] Asebi**
Yes!
**[15:16] Asebi**
Oh, I'm sorry. I don't really know.
**[15:22] Asebi**
I do use incense, but...
**[15:24] Asebi**
What could it be?
**[15:25] Asebi**
Not musk or anything so costly,
I shouldn't think.
**[15:29] Masuho**
Surely you jest.
What noble doesn't know their incense?
**[15:33] Lady-in-waiting**
I can't believe it. Has the Eastern House
fallen on such hard times?
**[15:37] Ukogi**
Begging your pardon...
**[15:38] Ukogi**
The Eastern House has ancient
and noble incense traditions of its own,
**[15:43] Ukogi**
but my lady was a somewhat delicate child
and has little experience with them.
**[15:50] Masuho**
My, what a pity.
**[15:53] Masuho**
The doll festival is almost upon us,
so use that to ward off evil influences.
**[15:58] Asebi**
I actually have them with me.
**[16:01] Asebi**
My dolls for the festival.
**[16:09] Lady-in-waiting**
How shabby. Practically peasant dolls.
**[16:13] Lady-in-waiting**
Leave her be. The provincial set
can't produce anything better.
**[16:20] Masuho**
Lady Asebi, are you certain...
**[16:23] Masuho**
you really belong here?
**[16:28] Shiratama**
Oh dear. I do beg your pardon.
**[16:31] Kikuno**
My lady's favorite Grey Heron teacup!
**[16:34] Masuho**
Enough, Kikuno. You're making a scene.
**[16:38] Ukogi**
My lady!
**[16:39] Ukogi**
Ow.
**[16:39] Ukogi**
My lady!
**[16:53] Hamayu**
Let me guess. Someone's been bullying you?
**[16:58] Hamayu**
Was it Masuho-no-Susuki or Shiratama?
**[17:07] Asebi**
I have no right to be here.
**[17:12] Asebi**
My older sister was supposed to come.
**[17:14] Asebi**
But she fell ill.
**[17:16] Asebi**
I took her place at the last minute.
**[17:19] Asebi**
I felt so happy.
**[17:21] Asebi**
I've lived in a country villa
for as long as I can remember.
**[17:26] Asebi**
I had nothing but worrywart
ladies-in-waiting for company.
**[17:29] Asebi**
I barely ever got to go outside
and play with other children my age.
**[17:35] Asebi**
But it's no use.
**[17:37] Asebi**
I stand out like a sore thumb.
**[17:39] Hamayu**
Will you take your leave, then?
**[17:45] Hamayu**
Come to think of it, we have one other
out-of-place person this time.
**[17:51] Hamayu**
Someone they say turned witless
on a long trip abroad.
**[17:56] Hamayu**
Someone who everyone calls
an unbelievable fool.
**[18:02] Hamayu**
The Prince.
**[18:04] Asebi**
His Highness?
**[18:05] Hamayu**
It's not exactly a secret.
**[18:08] Hamayu**
You really don't know anything, do you?
**[18:12] Hamayu**
Then, I guess this will be news to you.
**[18:15] Hamayu**
The Prince wasn't anyone's first choice
to succeed the current kin'u.
**[18:21] Hamayu**
He's a second son.
**[18:24] Hamayu**
His brother who's five years older
should be the heir.
**[18:29] Hamayu**
The brother was a razor-sharp kid.
They said he'd make a great ruler one day.
**[18:36] Hamayu**
But for whatever reason,
the royal priests declared the infant prince
**[18:42] Hamayu**
more worthy to inherit than his brother.
**[18:46] Hamayu**
Even though the older prince's mother
is the kin'u's wife, the Empress,
**[18:50] Hamayu**
while his younger brother
was born to a concubine.
**[18:55] Hamayu**
I hear it caused a panic in the Center.
**[18:57] Hamayu**
Factions formed and split the court in two.
**[19:03] Hamayu**
In the end, the older brother lost the
power struggle and had to become a priest.
**[19:11] Asebi**
So that's why Her Majesty used
my name as a slight to His Highness.
**[19:16] Asebi**
I feel terrible for the elder prince.
**[19:18] Hamayu**
Well, officially, they settled everything,
**[19:22] Hamayu**
but who knows how he really feels?
**[19:26] Hamayu**
You never know what might
happen during this rite.
**[19:31] Asebi**
And you, Lady Hamayu?
**[19:32] Hamayu**
Consider me a spectator.
**[19:40] Hamayu**
Oh, and there was one other rumor.
**[19:43] Hamayu**
I hear the foolish prince is a *real* kin'u.
**[19:51] Asebi**
"Real"?
***SIGN*** The North
**[20:24] Yukimasa**
My lord.
**[20:26] Genya**
Oh, Yukimasa. In good health, I hope?
**[20:29] Yukimasa**
Yes, sir.
**[20:30] Yukimasa**
I cannot thank you enough
for inviting me here today.
***SIGN*** Lord of Taruhi Village
in the North
Yukimasa
**[20:34] Yukimasa**
Have you just returned from the Center?
***SIGN*** Mansion of the Northern House
**[20:36] Genya**
Yes. The Rite of Ascension
makes life hectic.
**[20:41] Genya**
By the way, Yukimasa...
**[20:43] Yukimasa**
Sir?
**[20:43] Genya**
Did your boys come with you?
**[20:46] Yukimasa**
O-Of course.
**[20:49] Genya**
I can't wait to see them.
**[20:51] Genya**
Yukiya moaned about stomach trouble
and excused himself last year.
**[20:56] Genya**
He must have done a lot of growing.
**[21:00] Yukimasa**
Where has that blockhead gone?
***SIGN*** The Lord of Taruhi Village's
second son
Yukiya
**[21:04] Yukiya**
So, um, you're saying you won't pay,
no matter what?
**[21:10] Lackey 1**
We told you, you've got it all wrong.
**[21:13] Lackey 2**
As if we'd ever dine-and-dash
at this peasant kid's place.
**[21:17] Child**
Liar! I know you took our mochi!
**[21:20] Kazumaro**
Enough!
**[21:21] Kazumaro**
You hill ravens owe us court ravens
every hospitality, anyway.
**[21:27] Kazumaro**
Even if I *did* eat your mochi,
what's so wrong with that?
**[21:30] Yukiya**
Excuse me.
**[21:33] Yukiya**
A lot of people saw you,
so it's an open-and-shut case.
**[21:38] Yukiya**
Won't you please pay for the mochi?
**[21:43] Kazumaro**
You hill ravens don't know your place.
**[21:46] Lackey 2**
Come on.
**[21:47] Child**
Y-Yukiya!
**[21:48] Yukiya**
Don't worry. We can talk this out.
**[22:01] Yukima**
Yukiya, are you okay?
**[22:03] Yukichi**
Yukiya!
**[22:05] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[22:06] Yukiya**
Big brother? Yukichi? What's the matter?
***SIGN*** The Lord of Taruhi Village's
eldest son
Yukima
**[22:10] Yukima**
You idiot! Why do you
always put yourself in danger?
**[22:13] Yukichi**
It's not Yukiya's fault!
***SIGN*** The Lord of Taruhi Village's
third son
Yukichi
**[22:15] Yukichi**
Just 'cause they're court ravens
from the Center,
**[22:18] Yukichi**
they made fun of us and
threw their weight around.
**[22:20] Yukiya**
Hey, isn't today...
**[22:23] Yukiya**
the Northern House's banquet?
**[22:25] Yukima**
Yeah. But with a face like that...
**[22:30] Yukiya**
And those court ravens
will be there, too, right?
**[22:35] Yukima**
Hey, this better not be another of your...
**[22:38] Yukiya**
Don't be silly, Big Brother.
I'm not planning anything.
**[22:42] Yukiya**
Well, I'll see you there.
**[22:49] Yukima**
Yukiya!
**[22:54] Yukiya**
Ugh. I knew this would hurt.
**[24:30] Narrator**
* The Northern House puts forward*
* Lady Shiratama as consort.*
**[24:34] Narrator**
*After causing a scene at the banquet,*
**[24:37] Narrator**
* Yukiya is ordered to wait*
* on the "foolish" prince.*
**[24:43] Narrator**
*Yukiya and the Prince.*
**[24:45] Narrator**
*Their strange fate is set in motion.*
***SIGN*** The Blockhead
***SIGN*** Second Son
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "The Blockhead Second Son."*
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E2 - The Blockhead Second Son
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GD9UVMGGJ/the-blockhead-second-son)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:05] Kazumaro**
You hill ravens don't know your place.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Mansion of the Northern House
**[01:48] Yukimasa**
You little blockhead!
**[01:51] Yukiya**
I, uh, tripped and fell.
**[01:54] Yukimasa**
What did you fall on
to do *that* to your face?!
**[01:57] Yukimasa**
Why are you always getting into trouble?!
**[02:00] Azusa**
Dear.
**[02:01] Azusa**
I'm sure he has a reason.
***SIGN*** Wife of the Lord of Taruhi Village
Azusa
**[02:04] Yukimasa**
A-Anyway, keep your head down
in front of His Lordship.
**[02:07] Yukimasa**
Don't make a scene. Is that clear?
**[02:10] Yukiya**
Sure.
**[02:13] Yukimasa**
Permit me to congratulate you on
Lady Shiratama's safe entry into the palace.
**[02:20] Genya**
Yes, this opportunity won't come again.
**[02:24] Genya**
We must see that Shiratama
marries His Highness at any cost.
***SIGN*** Wife of the Lord of the North
Lady Oryo
**[02:29] Oryo**
Dear.
**[02:30] Genya**
Hm? Oh!
**[02:36] Genya**
Dear me. How could I forget myself
in the presence of royalty?
**[02:41] Natsuka**
I don't mind.
**[02:44] Natsuka**
Friendly rivalry among the Four Houses
keeps Yamauchi prosperous and secure.
***SIGN*** Priest of Clear Mirror Temple
Natsuka
**[02:49] Natsuka**
It must please the Mountain God, as well.
**[02:53] Genya**
To celebrate Shiratama's
entry into the palace,
**[02:56] Genya**
the Royal House's eldest son
sped from the Center to join us.
**[03:00] Genya**
This is Lord Natsuka
of Clear Mirror Temple.
**[03:02] Yukimasa**
L-Lord Natsuka?!
**[03:04] Natsuka**
Lord Genya has told me of you.
**[03:07] Natsuka**
I hear you have three sons that are
all promising scholars and warriors.
**[03:11] Yukimasa**
Oh, you give them far too much credit.
**[03:13] Genya**
No need for modesty.
**[03:16] Genya**
Since we're all here,
let them greet Lord Natsuka.
**[03:20] Yukimasa**
W-Well, you see...
**[03:29] Oryo**
Yukiya, why are you crying?
**[03:32] Yukiya**
I'm sorry. It was all my fault!
**[03:35] Genya**
Y-Yukiya? What happened to your face?
**[03:42] Yukiya**
I offended a court raven.
**[03:45] Genya**
A court raven?
**[03:47] Yukiya**
Yes, sir.
**[03:48] Yukiya**
He partook of mochi in
the marketplace this morning.
**[03:52] Yukiya**
But he forgot to pay,
so I ran after him to present his bill, and...
**[03:58] Genya**
He beat you?
**[04:00] Yukiya**
But it was my own fault.
**[04:02] Yukiya**
I must have been rude,
because he took offense.
**[04:05] Lackey 1**
He's no hill crow!
He's the village lord's kid!
**[04:09] Yukiya**
If I wasn't such a blockhead,
**[04:11] Yukiya**
Lord Kazumaro wouldn't have
skipped out on his bill or beaten me.
**[04:15] Yukiya**
So I say to him: please don't
do anything else to my family!
**[04:19] Yukiya**
I'm so sorry!
**[04:24] Genya**
You imbeciles!
**[04:26] Genya**
Is that any way to treat
law-abiding subjects?!
**[04:32] Kazumichi**
You idiot!
***SIGN*** Head of the Kitashijo Family
Kazumichi
**[04:33] Kazumichi**
What did you think you were doing?!
**[04:36] Kazumaro**
Please forgive me. But—
**[04:38] Kazumichi**
No excuses!
**[04:40] Kazumichi**
You can forget about
attending to the Prince after this!
**[04:44] Kazumichi**
Do you realize how hard
I worked to arrange that?
**[04:47] Kazumaro**
Wh-What? No...
**[04:53] Genya**
How are your bruises, Yukiya?
**[04:56] Yukiya**
Well, pretty sore, I guess.
**[04:59] Oryo**
I'm glad they're not worse.
**[05:01] Oryo**
But we must find someone
to replace Kazumaro at once.
**[05:05] Genya**
Indeed we must.
**[05:07] Genya**
But we can't send just anyone
to wait on His Highness.
**[05:12] Yukimasa**
And all because of my little idiot.
**[05:14] Natsuka**
You have nothing to be
ashamed of, Sir Yukimasa.
**[05:17] Yukimasa**
L-Lord Natsuka. F-Forgive me
for that disgraceful spectacle.
**[05:21] Natsuka**
Oh, I quite enjoyed the show.
**[05:25] Natsuka**
But young Yukiya must learn to
behave appropriately for the occasion.
**[05:30] Yukiya**
Am I really that rude?
**[05:33] Yukimasa**
Shh!
**[05:34] Natsuka**
So I have a suggestion.
**[05:36] Natsuka**
Why not send Yukiya to wait on the Prince
and learn manners while he does?
**[05:43] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[05:44] Oryo**
What a splendid idea.
**[05:46] Genya**
Now why didn't I think of that?
**[05:49] Genya**
Yukiya, start with a year
in His Highness's service.
**[05:53] Yukiya**
P-Please, not so fast! I didn't mean to—
**[05:57] Azusa**
What a wonderful offer.
Don't you agree, dear?
**[06:00] Yukimasa**
Hm? Y-Yes.
**[06:04] Yukimasa**
You've made your bed. Now lie in it.
**[06:06] Yukimasa**
And don't even think about giving in
and leaving before your year is up,
**[06:11] Yukimasa**
or it's Unbending Reed Monastery for you.
**[06:13] Yukiya**
What?!
**[06:14] Yukiya**
Please, I can't take—
**[06:16] Yukima**
He can do a lot when he sets
his mind to it. Please take him.
**[06:19] Yukichi**
Please!
**[06:21] Yukiya**
*I took it too far!*
***SIGN*** Spring Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[06:31] Ukogi**
My lady, you'll catch a chill.
**[06:35] Asebi**
Look. When we arrived,
the cherry trees were in full bloom.
**[06:40] Ukogi**
So they were.
**[06:43] Asebi**
When will the Prince pay us a visit?
**[06:46] Asebi**
And what is he even like?
**[06:49] Asebi**
Rumor says he is "an unbelievable fool."
**[06:52] Ukogi**
My lady, you must not
put stock in such rumors.
***SIGN*** Lady of the
Spring Hall
**[06:57] Ukogi**
Only royalty may use the color purple.
**[07:07] Asebi**
"Many demands on my time keep me
from the Cherry Blossom Palace."
**[07:11] Asebi**
"Please take care of your health."
**[07:16] Ukogi**
Empty pleasantries.
**[07:19] Ukogi**
Well, at least now we know
His Highness has some common courtesy.
**[07:27] Asebi**
What a lovely scent.
**[07:29] Asebi**
I hope to meet him soon.
**[07:33] Referee**
Begin!
**[07:38] Girl 2**
Yukima!
**[07:39] Girls**
Go, Yukima!
**[07:41] Yukichi**
Get him, Big Brother!
**[07:43] Yukiya**
How did I end up in this mess?
***SIGN*** Lineal grandson of
the Lord of the North
Kiei
**[07:46] Kiei**
What are you moping about?
**[07:50] Kiei**
You're a lucky boy.
**[07:52] Kiei**
Even Central nobles have trouble
landing a place in His Highness's household.
**[07:58] Kiei**
And the Rite of Ascension only
comes around once every few decades.
**[08:03] Kiei**
You ought to be dancing for joy.
**[08:06] Yukiya**
Uh-huh.
**[08:10] Referee**
One point to red!
**[08:13] Yukiya**
I just wanted to make him
pay for the mochi, though.
**[08:18] Yukiya**
And if a noble who thought Taruhi
belonged to him also caught hell for it,
**[08:25] Yukiya**
I would've been satisfied.
**[08:27] Referee**
Halt!
**[08:29] Yukichi**
Nice going, Big Brother!
**[08:30] Friends**
Go!
**[08:30] Kiei**
Northern kids sure are a lively bunch.
**[08:31] Friends**
Get him!
**[08:33] Kiei**
I know how much your home means to you,
**[08:36] Kiei**
but what you learn in the Center
will help Taruhi for certain.
**[08:43] Referee**
One point to white!
**[08:45] Kiei**
And I'd appreciate it, too.
**[08:48] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[08:49] Kiei**
Lady Shiratama may be gorgeous,
**[08:51] Kiei**
but looks alone won't get her chosen
out of the Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[08:55] Kiei**
If you serve beside His Highness
and work to better her chances,
**[08:59] Kiei**
I couldn't ask for better help.
**[09:02] Yukiya**
I'm just the second son
of a country gentleman.
**[09:05] Kiei**
Don't be silly, Yukiya.
You're the Northern House's—
**[09:08] Yukiya**
I'd better get going.
**[09:10] Yukiya**
Can you really afford
to take it easy, Lord Kiei?
**[09:14] Yukiya**
I thought you planned to
return before the day is out.
**[09:16] Kiei**
T-True.
**[09:18] Yukiya**
Well, I'll take the job.
**[09:21] Yukiya**
I don't want any part of
Unbending Reed Monastery.
**[09:24] Yukiya**
I mean, combat drills
every day for three years?
**[09:27] Yukiya**
A year of palace service
sounds a whole lot better.
**[09:34] Yukiya**
So don't worry about me.
**[09:36] Yukiya**
Have a safe trip.
**[09:39] Kiei**
What a funny kid.
**[09:42] Referee**
One point to white!
**[09:43] Referee**
As the first to score two points, white wins!
**[09:45] Referee**
Bow!
**[09:48] Yukima**
You're always such
a strong competitor, Ichiryu.
***SIGN*** Of Shimaki Village
in the North
Ichiryu
**[09:51] Ichiryu**
That doesn't mean much
coming from a Taruhi bumpkin.
**[09:55] Ichiryu**
That hurt!
**[09:56] Girls**
Watch what you say about Yukima!
**[09:56] Girls**
Dummy!
**[09:58] Ichiryu**
What's their problem?
**[10:00] Friend 1**
Nice work, Ichiryu.
**[10:01] Ichiryu**
Hm?
**[10:02] Friend 2**
Still, Yukima looks cool even when he loses.
**[10:05] Friend 2**
That's the next lord of Taruhi for you.
**[10:07] Ichiryu**
Hey! I'm the winner here!
**[10:09] Friend 3**
The "future lord's" kid brother has a match.
**[10:12] Friend 3**
Wanna go laugh at him?
**[10:16] Yukichi**
Hang in there, Yukiya!
**[10:18] Yukima**
Keep your guard up! Don't lower your arms!
**[10:24] Friend 1**
He's got no fire in his eyes.
**[10:26] Friend 2**
Talk about lucky.
**[10:27] Friend 2**
If a beating from some noble
gets you a palace job, I'll take ten.
**[10:32] Ichiryu**
No way it's that easy, doofus.
**[10:37] Ichiryu**
Did you know Yukiya's got a different mother
from the other two Taruhi boys?
**[10:44] Ichiryu**
And rumor has it
she was a real highborn lady.
**[10:48] Ichiryu**
So if you ask me,
it's no wonder they picked him.
**[10:53] Friend 3**
Maybe he planned it?
**[10:55] Friend 3**
Figured taking a few licks here
would land him a big chance?
**[10:59] Ichiryu**
How should I know?
**[11:02] Ichiryu**
Still, he can't be too happy.
**[11:05] Ichiryu**
All that highborn blood, and he's stuck
as a second son out in the sticks.
**[11:10] Ichiryu**
He'll have a chance
to make friends in the Center.
**[11:12] Ichiryu**
He might be hoping to at least swipe
the lordship from his big brother.
**[11:18] Friend 1**
Yikes! We've got
a succession dispute coming.
**[11:29] Friend 1**
I'm starving.
**[11:30] Friend 1**
Let's grab a bite.
**[11:43] Yukiya**
Sure is nice of you, Ichiryu,
giving me a lesson like this.
**[11:49] Yukiya**
I'm glad I worked up the nerve to ask you.
**[11:51] Ichiryu**
I'm not gonna waste
much time on you.
**[11:54] Ichiryu**
Still, couldn't you just ask
Yukima to train with you?
**[11:57] Yukiya**
You and my brother
are on different levels.
**[12:09] Yukiya**
Okay, then.
**[12:14] Yukima**
Yukiya sure is late.
**[12:22] Ichiryu**
Talk about a fluke.
**[12:24] Ichiryu**
Try taking the offensive this time.
**[12:27] Yukiya**
You want me to attack?
**[12:45] Yukiya**
You said you'd train me, right, Ichiryu?
**[12:48] Yukiya**
Come on. Show me the next move already.
**[13:00] Yukiya**
You've got some nerve,
saying all that during my match.
**[13:04] Ichiryu**
You heard that?
**[13:06] Yukiya**
Well, when you're shouting
that loudly, how could I not?
**[13:12] Ichiryu**
We were just chatting, you know?
**[13:15] Ichiryu**
Ow!
**[13:17] Yukiya**
You think I want to "swipe
the lordship" from my brother?
**[13:20] Yukiya**
Just because my mother
came from a good family?
**[13:22] Ichiryu**
N-No, we all know that'd never happen.
**[13:27] Ichiryu**
We were kidding. Kidding.
**[13:29] Yukiya**
Kidding, huh?
**[13:31] Yukiya**
It seems pretty silly to me, too.
**[13:34] Yukiya**
Everything changing just
because of how you were born.
**[13:37] Yukiya**
But some people really do trade on that.
**[13:41] Yukiya**
Bloodlines, families,
hill ravens and court ravens...
**[13:45] Yukiya**
They use all that
as an excuse to live it up,
**[13:49] Yukiya**
and they don't care if they
split up people's families to do it.
**[13:53] (Flashback) Young Yukiya**
Help, Mother!
**[13:55] (Flashback) Azusa**
Please stop! Give Yukiya back to me!
**[13:58] (Flashback) Relative**
Yukiya is too heavy a burden
for your family. We will raise him.
**[14:03] Yukiya**
Do you know how much pain people
spouting idle gossip has caused my family?
**[14:10] (Flashback) Maid**
The mistress sure is a strange one,
doting on a son that's not even hers.
**[14:16] Yukiya**
Listen up, Ichiryu!
**[14:18] Yukiya**
I'll never leave for the Center,
and I'll never take my brother's place.
**[14:23] Yukiya**
I'll spend my whole life as the second
Taruhi brother, propping him up.
**[14:26] Yukiya**
I'll work under him till
they bury my bones in Taruhi.
**[14:31] Yukiya**
My family has no succession disputes,
and it never will.
**[14:44] Yukima**
Stop!
**[14:46] Yukima**
Haven't you done enough?
Ichiryu didn't mean any harm.
**[14:51] Yukiya**
Is that an order?
**[14:56] Yukima**
Yes.
**[14:57] Yukima**
I'm speaking as the future lord
of Taruhi. Stop, Yukiya.
**[15:05] Yukiya**
Understood.
**[15:19] Yukichi**
Big Brother!
**[15:21] Yukiya**
Hey.
**[15:22] Taruhi Boy 1**
Aren't you a bit old to get lost?
**[15:25] Taruhi Boy 2**
Yukiya's hopeless.
**[15:27] Yukiya**
Ah, sorry, sorry.
**[15:40] Yukiya**
Are you still awake, Mother?
**[15:43] Azusa**
Yukiya?
**[15:47] Azusa**
You came at the perfect time.
**[15:51] Azusa**
A bit long in the sleeve, do you think?
**[15:54] Azusa**
But boys grow so fast.
**[15:57] Yukiya**
I'll only be gone for a year.
**[15:59] Yukiya**
And you don't need
to sew my clothes yourself.
**[16:02] Azusa**
What are you talking about?
**[16:04] Azusa**
I'm happy for you. I always wanted you
to experience the outside world.
**[16:11] Azusa**
You must have been so bored all this time.
**[16:16] Yukiya**
I doubt I'll live up to your expectations.
**[16:19] Yukiya**
The Prince has lots of attendants, anyway.
**[16:22] Azusa**
True.
**[16:23] Yukiya**
I might come home sooner than you think.
**[16:27] Azusa**
I don't mind either way.
**[16:29] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[16:30] Azusa**
Your mother is proud of you.
**[16:33] Azusa**
Take care over there.
**[16:36] Azusa**
Do your best to serve His Highness.
**[16:41] Yukiya**
I will.
***SIGN*** Winter Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[16:52] Lady-in-Waiting**
How beautiful.
**[16:55] Lady-in-Waiting**
As lovely as the pearls you're
named for, Lady Shiratama.
**[16:59] Cha-no-Hana**
My lady.
**[17:06] Cha-no-Hana**
I bring good news.
**[17:09] Cha-no-Hana**
His Highness's new attendant
will come from Taruhi.
**[17:14] Cha-no-Hana**
A child of a lady of the Northern House
who passed some time ago.
**[17:18] Shiratama**
Will he be of any use, I wonder?
**[17:21] Shiratama**
I hear His Highness can be difficult.
**[17:24] Cha-no-Hana**
Have no fear. We have agents
gathering intelligence in many quarters.
**[17:31] Cha-no-Hana**
All is well. Nothing will stand between
Your Ladyship and a royal marriage.
***SIGN*** Autumn Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[17:42] Kikuno**
Almost complete, I see.
**[17:45] Masuho**
Stop that, Kikuno.
You'll make me complacent.
**[17:49] Masuho**
I'm at the most important part.
**[17:52] Kikuno**
I suppose you *have*
spent a whole year on it.
**[17:55] Masuho**
His Highness is no fool.
**[17:58] Masuho**
Once he sees this,
**[18:00] Masuho**
he's certain to realize
who cares for him the most.
***SIGN*** Summer Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[18:10] Karamushi**
Have you considered
drinking in moderation?
**[18:14] Karamushi**
Don't tell me you've forgotten
your role, Miss Hamayu?
***SIGN*** Southern Lady-in-Waiting
Karamushi
**[18:19] Hamayu**
You mean "*Lady* Hamayu."
**[18:22] Hamayu**
You serve me. Don't forget that.
**[18:28] Hamayu**
Don't worry. I won't forget.
**[18:31] Hamayu**
But what can I do when
the Prince won't show himself?
**[18:38] Hamayu**
What a self-serving man.
***SIGN*** Spring Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[18:52] Yukimasa**
Kiei is waiting for you in the Center.
**[18:55] Yukimasa**
He'll be of help to you,
so mind your manners.
**[18:59] Yukiya**
Yes, yes.
**[19:00] Yukimasa**
The court isn't like Taruhi.
**[19:03] Yukimasa**
Don't loiter around in
your feather robe or shift shape.
**[19:07] Yukimasa**
*Especially* not in front of nobles.
**[19:09] Yukiya**
Yes, yes, yes.
**[19:11] Yukimasa**
Remember, if you get sent home in
under a year, it's the monastery for you.
**[19:16] Yukimasa**
They'll drill better sense into you there.
**[19:19] Yukiya**
Ugh.
**[19:23] Yukimasa**
That's the Central Mountain,
heart of Yamauchi.
***SIGN*** Main Gate, Imperial Court
**[19:58] Kiei**
What are you doing? This way.
**[20:01] Yukiya**
Oh, r-right.
***SIGN*** Sunrise Palace
**[20:12] Yukiya**
This is the Sunrise Palace, right?
**[20:15] Kiei**
Yeah.
**[20:16] Yukiya**
Kind of empty, isn't it?
**[20:18] Yukiya**
There's not even a gatekeeper.
**[20:21] Yukiya**
Come to think of it, I don't know
the first thing about His Highness.
**[20:25] Yukiya**
Everyone I ask says they don't either.
**[20:35] Sumio**
Thank you for your efforts, Sir Kiei.
**[20:39] Kiei**
And to you, for all you do.
**[20:41] Kiei**
I brought the new attendant.
**[20:44] Yukiya**
Yukiya of Taruhi, at your service.
**[20:48] Sumio**
I am Sumio of the Yamauchi Guard,
His Highness's personal guard.
***SIGN*** Yamauchi Guard
Sumio
**[20:54] Sumio**
I realize this is sudden,
but may I take charge of Sir Yukiya now?
**[20:58] Kiei**
Of course.
**[20:59] Kiei**
Well then, Yukiya, best of luck.
**[21:03] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[21:06] Sumio**
Shall we be going, Sir Yukiya?
**[21:20] Yukiya**
Um... Where is everyone else?
**[21:25] Yukiya**
The palace seems awfully quiet.
How many people serve here?
**[21:31] Sumio**
Two.
**[21:32] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[21:33] Sumio**
By "two," I mean me and you.
**[21:36] Yukiya**
W-Wait a minute.
**[21:38] Yukiya**
What about the other attendants?
**[21:40] Yukiya**
I heard you had around ten young
noblemen serving here a month ago.
**[21:46] Sumio**
They all quit or were dismissed.
**[21:49] Yukiya**
Huh.
**[21:49] Sumio**
Three hung on until just a few days ago,
**[21:54] Sumio**
but between chronic illnesses
flaring up and family circumstances...
**[22:03] Sumio**
His Highness resides here.
**[22:07] Sumio**
Your Highness.
**[22:09] Sumio**
I have brought the new attendant.
**[22:12] Nazukihiko**
Enter.
**[22:35] Nazukihiko**
So you're finally here.
**[22:42] Yukiya**
It is an honor to meet Your Highness.
I am Yukiya of Taruhi.
***SIGN*** His Highness
The Crown Prince
**[22:48] Nazukihiko**
I've been waiting for you, Yukiya of Taruhi.
**[24:31] Narrator**
* Yukiya has left his village*
* and entered the Prince's service.*
**[24:36] Narrator**
* Yet the palace swirls with*
* dark rumors surrounding the Kin'u.*
**[24:43] Narrator**
* In the Cherry Blossom Palace, forbidden*
* to men, Yukiya learns of the ladies' sorrow.*
***SIGN*** A True
***SIGN*** Golden Raven
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "A True Golden Raven."*
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E3 - A True Golden Raven
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GQJUG5ZZJ/a-true-golden-raven)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:01] (Flashback) Young Natsuka**
A prince said, "When a kin'u
is born, drought follows."
**[00:06] (Flashback) Young Natsuka**
"When a kin'u is born, floods follow."
**[00:09] (Flashback) Young Natsuka**
"When a kin'u is born, great strife follows
and many yatagarasu perish."
**[00:16] (Flashback) Young Natsuka**
How sad.
**[00:19] (Flashback) Young Natsuka**
Tell me, Grandfather, why does disaster
befall Yamauchi when a kin'u is born?
**[00:25] (Flashback) Young Natsuka**
Aren't kin'u meant to protect us yatagarasu?
**[00:28] (Flashback) Young Natsuka**
Why are kin'u born?
**[00:31] (Flashback) Young Natsuka**
Why is my younger brother one of them?
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[02:22] Nazukihiko**
I know you just arrived,
but I want you to do some things for me.
**[02:25] Yukiya**
Oh, um, of course.
**[02:32] Yukiya**
* I figured the Crown Prince*
* would be living in the lap of luxury.*
**[02:37] Yukiya**
*This isn't what I pictured.*
**[02:41] Nazukihiko**
This is your first task.
**[02:44] Nazukihiko**
I want you to water my plants
with water from that well.
**[02:46] Nazukihiko**
But only the ones in the white pots.
**[02:49] Yukiya**
Only the white ones?
**[02:51] Nazukihiko**
Yes. Give the blue ones
water from the falls.
**[02:53] Yukiya**
Falls?
**[02:59] Nazukihiko**
I have two of each plant,
one in a white pot and one in a blue.
**[03:02] Nazukihiko**
Don't give any the wrong water.
**[03:04] Nazukihiko**
Also...
**[03:06] Nazukihiko**
This well isn't for drinking from.
**[03:08] Nazukihiko**
Try the jugs in the annex
if you get thirsty.
**[03:12] Yukiya**
I understand.
**[03:14] Yukiya**
In that case, I'll get—
**[03:20] Nazukihiko**
Sumio and I are going out.
**[03:22] Nazukihiko**
We'll drop in again in the afternoon,
so have the room clean by then.
**[03:27] Yukiya**
Right.
**[03:28] Nazukihiko**
Sort the books and
put them back on their shelves.
**[03:31] Nazukihiko**
And I want you to collect
a letter addressed to me.
**[03:34] Nazukihiko**
It should arrive at the
Civil Bureau before noon.
**[03:36] Yukiya**
The where now?
**[03:37] Nazukihiko**
I borrowed some of these books
from the library. Return them.
**[03:41] Nazukihiko**
When you do, give the official
a list of the next batch I want,
**[03:45] Nazukihiko**
and deliver this to the Ministry of
Ceremonies while he fetches them.
**[03:48] Yukiya**
Right.
**[03:48] Nazukihiko**
My afternoon mail should have
arrived by then, so collect that, too.
**[03:52] Nazukihiko**
Oh, and I could use some more paper.
**[03:54] Yukiya**
Uh...
**[03:55] Nazukihiko**
Once back at the Sunrise Palace,
open the letters and sort them by urgency.
**[04:00] Nazukihiko**
Clean the stable and change the water.
**[04:03] Nazukihiko**
If the horse trough and the jugs both run dry,
fetch water from the falls at once.
**[04:09] Nazukihiko**
Any questions?
**[04:10] Yukiya**
Um... All by myself?
**[04:13] Nazukihiko**
Do you see anyone else?
**[04:17] Sumio**
Your Highness, Sir Yukiya
has only just arrived.
**[04:21] Nazukihiko**
If you can't do it, leave here at once.
We will both be better off that way.
**[04:25] Nazukihiko**
You needn't hold back.
**[04:27] Yukiya**
What do you mean?
**[04:28] Yukiya**
I'll do my best, of course, but—
**[04:31] Nazukihiko**
Your effort doesn't interest me.
**[04:35] Nazukihiko**
I care whether you make
yourself useful to me.
**[04:38] Nazukihiko**
Can you do it or can't you?
**[04:42] Yukiya**
May I suggest Your Highness
confirms the answer with your own eyes?
**[04:51] Nazukihiko**
Sumio.
**[04:52] Sumio**
Of course.
**[04:53] Sumio**
This sash marks you
as the Prince's attendant.
**[04:56] Sumio**
Wearing it will grant you entry
to most places at court.
**[05:00] Sumio**
Stop by the kitchens
if you get hungry. And—
**[05:03] Yukiya**
I'll be fine.
**[05:04] Yukiya**
Please, go out as you planned.
**[05:07] Yukiya**
I have no time to waste.
**[05:11] Nazukihiko**
All right. I pray you're not a blockhead.
**[05:15] Yukiya**
So long. Take care.
**[05:19] Yukiya**
This goes on the shelf.
This goes to the library.
**[05:23] Yukiya**
Damn it. "Blockhead" irritates me
coming from him.
**[05:31] Yukiya**
Ow, ow, ow.
**[05:34] Yukiya**
I don't wanna get it dirty.
**[05:41] Yukiya**
My feather robe's good enough.
**[05:46] Yukiya**
White.
**[05:47] Yukiya**
White. White. White.
**[05:50] Yukiya**
Man, why couldn't he just
make them *all* white?
**[05:53] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[05:57] (Flashback) Yukimasa**
Don't loiter around in
your feather robe or shift shape.
**[06:02] Yukiya**
Still, what choice have I got?
**[06:13] Yukiya**
O-kay.
**[06:20] Yukiya**
Blue.
**[06:21] Yukiya**
Blue. Blue. Blue.
**[06:27] Yukiya**
Welcome home.
**[06:28] Nazukihiko**
Good work. Where are my letters?
**[06:31] Yukiya**
I haven't gone to get them yet.
**[06:33] Nazukihiko**
Still? I thought I told you
to fetch them in the afternoon.
**[06:38] Yukiya**
If I may, Your—
**[06:39] Nazukihiko**
Never mind. I'll send Sumio for them.
**[06:43] Nazukihiko**
Use your head.
**[06:46] Nazukihiko**
Consider the order you ought
to work in before you act.
**[06:49] Yukiya**
Your Highness.
**[06:50] Yukiya**
Your literary tutor
left assignments for you.
**[06:53] Yukiya**
He urges you to make up for
lost time abroad as soon as possible.
**[06:57] Yukiya**
It's due tomorrow.
**[06:58] Yukiya**
Respectfully, shouldn't Your Highness
get to work on it soon?
**[07:04] Nazukihiko**
Is that something I ought to do?
**[07:07] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[07:12] Yukiya**
What's wrong with that guy?!
**[07:15] Yukiya**
I've been flying around all day
without a bite to eat!
***SIGN*** Imperial Court
**[07:25] Guard 1**
Boy, do you plan to enter
the court in that getup?
**[07:28] Yukiya**
Yes, that's right.
**[07:30] Guard 1**
No, that's wrong.
**[07:32] Guard 1**
Come back when you're dressed properly.
**[07:35] Yukiya**
Is there a rule against
entering court in a feather robe?
**[07:38] Guard 1**
There's no rule, but we can't let
an uncivil servant like you pass.
**[07:44] Guard 2**
Go on. Back where you came from.
**[07:45] Yukiya**
Even though I'm His Highness's attendant?
**[07:51] Guard 2**
We beg your pardon.
**[07:56] Yukiya**
Ah, this sucks.
***SIGN*** Imperial Library
***SIGN*** Imperial Library
***SIGN*** Imperial Library
***SIGN*** Ministry of Ceremonies
***SIGN*** Civil Bureau
***SIGN*** Imperial Library
**[08:17] Yukiya**
Is this letter important?
**[08:19] Yukiya**
What the hell?
***SIGN*** Young
sir,
I can't
wait for
your next
visit
**[08:22] Yukiya**
Are these *all* from
the red-light district?
***SIGN*** You're the
only one
I can
depend
on
**[08:38] Yukiya**
Done!
**[08:43] (Flashback) Tutor**
See that the Prince gets this done.
**[09:04] Yukiya**
Welcome back.
**[09:05] Yukiya**
Wait. Where's Lord Sumio?
**[09:08] Yukiya**
What happened to Your Highness's kimono?
**[09:17] Nazukihiko**
How many tasks have you finished?
**[09:19] Yukiya**
I've completed all of them.
**[09:22] Nazukihiko**
All of them?
**[09:23] Yukiya**
But I haven't touched
Your Highness's assignment.
**[09:26] Yukiya**
Does that displease you?
**[09:29] Nazukihiko**
That is as it should be.
**[09:31] Yukiya**
*Huh. He doesn't mind.*
**[09:34] Yukiya**
Huh? Hey!
**[09:46] Nazukihiko**
A kumquat. It should help tide you over.
**[09:55] Nazukihiko**
Is one not enough?
Don't stand on ceremony.
**[09:58] Yukiya**
Oh, uh, n-no, thank you.
**[10:01] Nazukihiko**
I see.
**[10:03] Nazukihiko**
That will be all for today. Well done.
**[10:07] Yukiya**
May Your Highness sleep well.
**[10:16] Yukiya**
So sour.
**[10:19] Yukiya**
Bitter, too.
***SIGN*** Lineal grandson of
the Lord of the North
Kiei
**[10:35] Kiei**
You don't say?
Sounds like you have it rough.
**[10:38] Yukiya**
It's not funny!
**[10:40] Yukiya**
My muscles ache every day,
and I sweat literal buckets.
**[10:44] Yukiya**
He's a fiend. An ogre.
**[10:45] Kiei**
But you set a new record.
No attendant has lasted half a month before.
**[10:50] Yukiya**
You forgot to mention that.
**[10:53] Yukiya**
So you knew all along, Lord Kiei.
**[10:56] Kiei**
Sorry about that.
**[11:00] Kiei**
By the way, about His Highness...
**[11:04] Kiei**
He hasn't visited the
Cherry Blossom Palace yet.
**[11:06] Kiei**
And I keep hearing about trips
to the red-light district.
**[11:10] Kiei**
Have you heard anything?
Anything at all?
**[11:13] Kiei**
Like, um, his taste in women?
**[11:15] Yukiya**
His habits make no sense to me.
**[11:18] Yukiya**
He pops up when I least expect him,
then disappears for three days.
**[11:22] Yukiya**
Oh, I think he likes kumquats.
**[11:26] Kiei**
I guess he really isn't like the rest of us,
being a true kin'u and all.
**[11:31] Yukiya**
A true...
**[11:32] Kiei**
Oh, didn't I tell you?
**[11:34] Kiei**
You see, His Highness is no ordinary kin'u.
**[11:37] Kiei**
They call him a kin'u among kin'u.
A true Golden Raven.
**[11:42] Kiei**
The name "kin'u" has two meanings, you see.
**[11:44] Kiei**
One is the kin'u as a simple ruler.
**[11:48] Kiei**
Then, there's the Golden Raven, ancestor
of the Royal House, and his second coming.
**[11:55] Kiei**
We call the latter "true" kin'u.
**[11:59] Yukiya**
So they're all kin'u,
but some are real and some are fake?
**[12:03] Kiei**
Basically, yes,
although it's not politic to say so.
**[12:07] Kiei**
The current Kin'u is a yatagarasu like us.
**[12:10] Kiei**
So was his predecessor,
hailed as a great ruler.
**[12:12] Kiei**
But they say true kin'u only look like us.
**[12:17] Kiei**
They're really something else entirely.
**[12:20] Kiei**
According to some texts,
**[12:22] Kiei**
a true kin'u has the power to dispel darkness
and change shape in even the darkest night.
**[12:27] Kiei**
Grand, beautiful, and compassionate,
**[12:31] Kiei**
he's born with all the qualities
he needs to rule the yatagarasu.
**[12:35] Yukiya**
Has anyone ever seen one?
**[12:37] Kiei**
Uh, well, decades go by
between chances, so...
**[12:42] Yukiya**
And the Royal House
has an older son, right?
**[12:45] Yukiya**
At Clear Mirror Temple, I—
**[12:46] Kiei**
Lord Natsuka.
**[12:48] Kiei**
Under normal circumstances,
he would have been heir to the throne.
**[12:51] Kiei**
But once the Prince was born
and recognized as a true kin'u,
**[12:55] Kiei**
Lord Natsuka's fortunes took a turn.
**[12:57] Kiei**
Even so, court ravens who hated
to lose his wisdom organized in secret.
**[13:02] Kiei**
The faction were like embers,
smoldering this whole time.
**[13:05] Kiei**
But the Prince's poor reputation
has started fanning it back aflame.
**[13:11] Yukiya**
Hey, a lucky tea stalk.
**[13:13] Kiei**
Were you listening?
**[13:15] Yukiya**
It's basically a bunch of nobles
fighting over power, right?
**[13:18] Yukiya**
All that about who's
a true kin'u and who's wise?
**[13:21] Yukiya**
That's just a front, or maybe an excuse.
**[13:24] Yukiya**
But, well, I guess it goes deeper than that.
**[13:28] Yukiya**
I mean, His Highness is obviously just
a selfish yatagarasu like the rest of us.
**[13:34] Kiei**
Shh! Not so loud.
**[13:37] Kiei**
Rumor has it Lord Natsuka's mother,
the Empress, is plotting something.
**[13:42] Kiei**
And there's a saying that
true kin'u have troubled reigns.
**[13:45] Kiei**
Of course, I hope it comes to nothing.
**[13:51] Rokon**
He's a stubborn kid.
**[13:54] Rokon**
I see why you took a shine
to him, Lord Natsuka.
**[13:57] Rokon**
How do you plan to use him?
**[14:03] Empress**
If only he had never
returned from abroad.
**[14:06] Empress**
Shoin, I trust you understand?
**[14:09] Shoin**
Yes, Majesty. I shall prepare
for an Imperial Council.
***SIGN*** Secretary to
His Imperial Majesty
Shoin
***SIGN*** Wisteria Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[14:17] Fujinami**
The irises look even lovelier
after yesterday's rain.
**[14:21] Masuho**
Magnificent. They could be a painting.
**[14:24] Asebi**
They really could.
**[14:26] Asebi**
But how can a month have passed already?
It seems like no time at all.
**[14:30] Shiratama**
By the way, where is Lady Hamayu?
**[14:33] Fujinami**
She sent word that she has a headache.
**[14:36] Fujinami**
A hangover, no doubt.
**[14:37] Masuho**
Pay her no mind.
**[14:40] Masuho**
It is His Highness that I miss.
I sent him another invitation today.
**[14:44] Asebi**
Um... Have you met
His Highness, Lady Masuho-no-Susuki?
**[14:49] Masuho**
We are cousins.
**[14:50] Masuho**
He even came to live with the
Western House, though only for a short time.
**[14:55] Masuho**
How elegant and kind he was back then.
**[15:00] Yukiya**
Hear that, Your Highness?
**[15:02] Nazukihiko**
Yes, I hear it.
**[15:04] Yukiya**
You're elegant and kind.
Everyone likes you.
**[15:08] Yukiya**
So why are we sneaking around
and spying like this?
**[15:13] Nazukihiko**
Keep your voice down, Yukiya.
**[15:15] Yukiya**
And the itching! Black feather robes attract
so many mosquitoes. How can you stand it?
**[15:20] Nazukihiko**
I *am* a kin'u.
**[15:22] Yukiya**
You say that,
but aren't they biting you, too?
**[15:24] Nazukihiko**
An assassin after my life
lurks in the Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[15:28] Nazukihiko**
I received a warning letter
just before the rite began.
**[15:31] Yukiya**
Who sent it?
**[15:32] Nazukihiko**
Who knows?
**[15:33] Yukiya**
Don't *you*?
**[15:34] Nazukihiko**
But it didn't strike me as a prank.
**[15:36] Nazukihiko**
And I must choose a consort regardless.
**[15:39] Yukiya**
So that's why we're spying, huh?
**[15:41] Nazukihiko**
Yes. People show their true selves
when they let their guard down.
**[15:46] Nazukihiko**
From the left, those are the Eastern,
Western, and Northern ladies.
**[15:49] Nazukihiko**
The East has a long reputation
for scheming, the West for frivolity,
**[15:53] Nazukihiko**
and the North for obstinacy.
All well deserved, it appears.
**[15:59] Yukiya**
I don't see it at all.
**[16:01] Nazukihiko**
The Southern lady is absent, but oh well.
**[16:04] Nazukihiko**
Can you see the women wearing
feather robes under their kimono?
**[16:07] Yukiya**
Oh, yes.
**[16:09] Nazukihiko**
They are warrior women
who guard Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[16:12] Nazukihiko**
The best, it is said,
can decapitate a horse in a single blow.
**[16:16] Nazukihiko**
They are called—
**[16:18] Takimoto**
Who goes there?
**[16:19] Yukiya**
Your Highness, we'd better run.
**[16:21] Nazukihiko**
Too late for that.
The Wisteria Guard noticed us.
**[16:23] Yukiya**
The Wisteria what?
**[16:24] Nazukihiko**
Forgive me.
**[16:34] Yukiya**
*Now I get it.*
**[16:35] Yukiya**
* His Highness only brought me along*
* to take the fall if things went wrong!*
**[16:41] Takimoto**
Don't let him escape!
**[16:42] Takimoto**
Get their ladyships inside!
**[16:44] Fujinami**
Everyone keep calm!
**[16:49] Ukogi**
This way, my lady.
**[16:53] Ukogi**
My lady!
**[17:01] Yukiya**
*It... It hurts. I can't breathe.*
**[17:04] Hamayu**
Leave it at that.
**[17:07] Takimoto**
Lady Hamayu.
**[17:08] Hamayu**
I came to see what all the fuss
was about, but he's just a chick.
**[17:11] Takimoto**
Chick or not, he is trespassing.
**[17:13] Hamayu**
But he'll die if you keep that up.
**[17:16] Hamayu**
Do you want to make a mess
of the consort selection?
**[17:20] Takimoto**
Release him.
**[17:26] Yukiya**
I thought I was a goner.
**[17:29] Takimoto**
Have you no shame?! How dare you change
shape before these noble personages!
**[17:34] Yukiya**
I... I'm so sorry.
**[17:36] Takimoto**
Who are you? Where did you come from? Speak!
**[17:39] Asebi**
Stop.
**[17:41] Asebi**
Stop this! Enough violence!
**[17:45] Ukogi**
My lady!
**[17:47] Masuho**
She has lost her head.
**[17:49] Masuho**
Today has been a bit much, even for me.
**[17:52] Hamayu**
Really? How delicate can one be?
**[17:55] Masuho**
I don't want to hear that
from a barbarian like you.
**[17:58] Hamayu**
I was talking about Asebi.
Don't make everything about you.
**[18:03] Masuho**
Excuse me?
**[18:04] Masuho**
Who do you think you are?
You never turn a hair at anything.
**[18:09] Masuho**
Does watching us pine
for His Highness amuse you?
**[18:14] Hamayu**
What are you implying?
**[18:15] Masuho**
I'm calling you a nuisance.
**[18:17] Masuho**
This palace is a place for women
worthy of the Prince to refine themselves.
**[18:22] Masuho**
Those who aim low, like you,
have no place here.
**[18:26] Fujinami**
That's enough, both of you!
**[18:36] Fujinami**
If only my brother would come.
**[18:42] Wisteria Guard**
Lady Takimoto, look there!
**[18:48] Takimoto**
That sash...
**[18:54] Sumio**
You sure had a bad day.
**[18:56] Sumio**
I was waiting to fly to your rescue
if worst came to worst.
**[19:01] Sumio**
Don't be too hard on His Highness.
**[19:03] Yukiya**
Don't you feel bad for them?
**[19:06] Yukiya**
The ladies.
**[19:08] Yukiya**
They're stuck in that little world,
just waiting for His Highness.
**[19:13] Sumio**
His Highness doesn't avoid the
Cherry Blossom Palace solely due to danger.
**[19:18] Sumio**
He's keeping the ladies
out of needless strife.
**[19:21] Yukiya**
"Needless strife"?
**[19:23] Sumio**
That's the kind of place
the Cherry Blossom Palace is.
**[19:32] Ukogi**
My lady, a messenger
from Princess Fujinami.
**[19:36] Ukogi**
May I show her in?
**[19:42] Samomo**
A token of consolation
from Her Highness.
**[19:49] Asebi**
It's so cold.
**[19:50] Samomo**
Perfect for cooling your eyes
before you eat.
**[19:54] Samomo**
I do it sometimes myself.
**[19:57] Samomo**
It does wonders for facial swelling.
**[19:59] Samomo**
And it warms the fruit just enough.
**[20:04] Samomo**
Lady Ukogi told me that you've never
seen anyone shift shape before.
**[20:10] Asebi**
I haven't.
**[20:11] Samomo**
It must have been quite a fright.
**[20:12] Samomo**
Nobles who spend almost
all of their lives in human shape
**[20:16] Samomo**
must have few occasions
to see such things.
**[20:19] Asebi**
I must be a bit muddled.
**[20:23] Asebi**
Bird-shaped yatagarasu
are called horses, aren't they?
**[20:27] Samomo**
Yes. They're yatagarasu, just like we are.
**[20:30] Samomo**
The only difference is that horses can't
return to human shape when they please.
**[20:37] Asebi**
Is that so?
**[20:38] Samomo**
Has Your Ladyship ever seen a horse
with a rope tied around its leg?
**[20:43] Asebi**
Yes, I think so. On the sky cart
I rode coming here.
**[20:48] Asebi**
The magnificent ropes looked
beautiful tied in those coils.
**[20:53] Samomo**
I suppose they do.
But those ropes aren't decorative.
**[20:57] Samomo**
They signify labor contracts.
**[21:00] Samomo**
Those who now work as horses
lost the means to live in human shape,
**[21:05] Samomo**
due to poverty
or various other circumstances.
**[21:08] Samomo**
Their employer binds their third leg
for the duration of the contract.
**[21:13] Samomo**
Special knots make it impossible
for the horses to release themselves.
**[21:18] Asebi**
But why their legs?
**[21:20] Samomo**
The power to shift shape
resides in the third leg.
**[21:24] Samomo**
Binding it leaves yatagarasu
unable to return to human shape.
**[21:28] Asebi**
How awful!
**[21:29] Samomo**
Horses only do manual labor,
like pulling carts and tilling fields.
**[21:35] Samomo**
At some point, "horse" became an insulting
term for the yatagarasu that do such work.
**[21:41] Asebi**
I'm so ashamed. I had no idea.
**[21:45] Asebi**
I wonder why Ukogi never told me.
**[21:48] Samomo**
I think I can understand
Lady Ukogi's feelings.
**[21:52] Samomo**
You're so kind that I'm sure she only
wanted to teach you beautiful things.
**[21:58] Samomo**
I used to shift shape often
when I was little.
**[22:02] Samomo**
So I was glad when you
stepped in to protect that boy.
**[22:07] Asebi**
You're Princess Fujinami's...
***SIGN*** Imperial Lady-in-Waiting
Samomo
**[22:11] Samomo**
Samomo is my name.
**[22:14] Asebi**
Samomo, if you don't mind,
would you come visit me again?
**[22:19] Samomo**
It would be my pleasure.
**[22:23] Yukiya**
I just got back.
**[22:26] Yukiya**
Wh-What's—
**[22:27] Nazukihiko**
They waited until I was out
to call an Imperial Council.
**[22:30] Yukiya**
An Imperial Council?
**[22:32] Nazukihiko**
The forces that would
disinherit me are pulling the strings.
**[22:36] Nazukihiko**
We're going to the Purple Hall at once.
***SIGN*** Purple Hall
**[24:30] Narrator**
* Two brothers:*
* the elder able, the younger foolish.*
**[24:35] Narrator**
* Their clash for the kin'u's throne*
* strains the court to breaking point.*
**[24:42] Narrator**
* The Prince still refuses*
* to meet the ladies.*
**[24:46] Narrator**
*What is his true intention?*
***SIGN*** An Imperial
***SIGN*** Council
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "An Imperial Council."*
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E4 - An Imperial Council
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G50UZ0DDQ/an-imperial-council)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:02] Nazukihiko**
An Imperial Council is the most
powerful gathering in Yamauchi,
**[00:06] Nazukihiko**
limited to royalty and
select members of the Four Houses.
**[00:10] Nazukihiko**
Only the Kin'u can convene one.
**[00:13] Nazukihiko**
Meaning someone has
put His Majesty up to this...
***SIGN*** Purple Hall
**[00:17] Nazukihiko**
...in an attempt to disinherit me.
**[00:21] Genya**
So in short, the selection of
the crown prince 10 years ago was flawed?
**[00:27] Genya**
Is that what you're getting at, Shoin?
**[00:31] Shoin**
Just so.
**[00:32] Genya**
And you hope to prove that *now*,
with His Highness absent?
**[00:38] Shoin**
The former kin'u and the priests
named His Highness heir to the throne.
**[00:44] Shoin**
But immediately afterward, His Highness
left Yamauchi on the pretext of study.
**[00:49] Shoin**
Thus, neither the Four Houses nor
even His Majesty, the present kin'u,
**[00:55] Shoin**
ever ratified the decision.
**[01:01] Akira**
Nonsense!
**[01:02] Akira**
His Highness is a true kin'u.
What more does he need?
**[01:06] Toru**
Some say the birth of a kin'u
heralds troubled times.
**[01:11] Akira**
Watch your tongue, Lord of the South!
**[01:13] Haruhito**
Now, now.
**[01:14] Haruhito**
I have heard that old saying,
**[01:17] Haruhito**
but such disagreements
may portend worse to come.
**[01:23] Shoin**
Then, perhaps we should
revisit the choice of heir.
**[01:27] Akira**
So that's your game.
**[01:29] Akira**
I wonder whose interests it serves.
**[01:32] Shoin**
Still your beak!
**[01:34] Shoin**
As Imperial secretary,
my words are His Majesty's.
**[01:39] Rokon**
Why, Your Highness.
**[01:42] Rokon**
You seem to have arrived a bit late.
**[01:46] Nazukihiko**
Rokon.
**[01:47] Nazukihiko**
Were you ordered to stop me?
**[01:50] Rokon**
Surely you jest?
***SIGN*** Natsuka's bodyguard
Rokon
**[01:52] Rokon**
Lord Natsuka would never
command such a thing.
**[01:55] Rokon**
Not that he would need to. This door
has already been locked from the inside.
**[02:07] Nazukihiko**
Open.
**[02:09] Shoin**
Now, let us vote on—
**[02:18] Shoin**
What is this?
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[04:14] Empress**
The prince has not yet visited
the Cherry Blossom Palace?
**[04:17] Shoin**
Indeed.
**[04:18] Empress**
I see he has keen instincts.
**[04:21] Empress**
But no fool can serve as kin'u.
**[04:25] Empress**
Do you not agree?
**[04:28] Shoin**
Yes, Majesty.
**[04:28] Empress**
I mean to recall Natsuka to worldly life
and ensconce him as crown prince.
**[04:34] Empress**
To that end, we must disinherit
the Prince at any cost.
**[04:40] Empress**
For the Southern House.
**[04:50] Yukiya**
*What was that about just now?*
**[04:53] Yukiya**
*This is creeping me out.*
**[04:56] Yukiya**
*There's Lord Natsuka.*
**[04:58] Yukiya**
*And behind the screen...*
**[05:00] Yukiya**
*Is that the current Kin'u?*
**[05:04] Nazukihiko**
Scheming behind my back.
**[05:07] Nazukihiko**
Shoin, everyone knows
who lurks behind you.
**[05:12] Nazukihiko**
That saves me some trouble.
**[05:19] Nazukihiko**
Your Majesty, you must realize
after what just happened.
**[05:23] Nazukihiko**
Two kin'u bring disaster to Yamauchi.
**[05:27] Nazukihiko**
You were a stopgap, so to speak.
**[05:29] Nazukihiko**
Now I have returned,
and you have served your purpose.
**[05:34] Nazukihiko**
Vacate that seat.
**[05:47] Emperor**
How...
**[05:48] Emperor**
How dare you?!
**[05:50] Emperor**
How dare you speak
to your own father like...
**[05:53] Emperor**
What do you know of me?!
**[05:56] Emperor**
Well?
**[05:58] Emperor**
What do you—
**[06:03] Nazukihiko**
Enough.
**[06:07] Nazukihiko**
I appreciate your service.
**[06:15] Nazukihiko**
See him out.
**[06:17] Page**
Your Majesty!
**[06:23] Nazukihiko**
Well, that's one problem solved.
**[06:27] Nazukihiko**
Next is—
**[06:28] Natsuka**
Don't you think...
**[06:29] Natsuka**
that was needlessly cruel of you?
**[06:33] Nazukihiko**
Brother.
**[06:34] Natsuka**
His Majesty has, after all,
governed Yamauchi for 20 long years.
**[06:40] Natsuka**
Surely you could have dealt
with him more peaceably?
**[06:44] Nazukihiko**
Really, Brother, you think of everything.
**[06:48] Nazukihiko**
Doesn't it frustrate you,
watching your foolish little brother?
**[06:53] Nazukihiko**
You must be imagining
what you'd do as crown prince.
**[06:56] Natsuka**
Perish the thought.
**[06:58] Natsuka**
I came here only out of concern for Yamauchi
as a member of the Royal House.
**[07:05] Natsuka**
If Your Highness will bring peace
and harmony as a true Golden Raven,
**[07:12] Natsuka**
then the likes of me
could never take your place.
**[07:17] Nazukihiko**
Will you swear it, then?
**[07:20] Nazukihiko**
Here and now, will you kneel,
bow your head, and pledge fealty to me?
**[07:27] Crowd**
What?
**[07:29] Crowd**
Lord Natsuka...
**[07:30] Yukiya**
*What's going on* now*?*
**[07:33] Yukiya**
*Aw, man. I want to go home to Taruhi.*
**[07:36] Atsufusa**
Please wait.
**[07:39] Nazukihiko**
Ah, Atsufusa of the Minami-omiya family.
**[07:42] Nazukihiko**
What is it?
***SIGN*** Natsuka's aide
Atsufusa
**[07:43] Atsufusa**
With all due respect, Lord Natsuka
could never practice duplicity.
**[07:48] Atsufusa**
He thinks always of Yamauchi.
**[07:51] Atsufusa**
And for Your Highness, he feels only—
**[07:52] Natsuka**
Enough, Atsufusa.
**[08:06] Natsuka**
I hereby pledge my life in service
to his beloved Majesty, the true Kin'u.
**[08:17] Nazukihiko**
That will do.
**[08:24] Shoin**
Please wait!
**[08:25] Shoin**
I do not believe anyone can claim
the Four Houses have given their assent yet!
**[08:30] Akira**
I've been telling you all along.
**[08:32] Akira**
He's a true kin'u. What more does he need?
**[08:37] Haruhito**
I see nothing particularly objectionable.
**[08:42] Toru**
Lord Natsuka pledged his fealty.
Why should the Southern House protest?
**[08:49] Toru**
Let His Highness ascend
to the throne without qualms.
**[08:53] Genya**
I wish to raise one question.
**[08:56] Nazukihiko**
Lord Genya of the North. What is it?
**[08:59] Genya**
A consort customarily
joins in enthronement.
**[09:03] Genya**
But though Your Highness
visits the pleasure quarter,
**[09:07] Genya**
you avoid the Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[09:10] Genya**
Do you truly intend to take a wife?
**[09:13] Genya**
My assent depends on your answer.
**[09:17] Nazukihiko**
Of course.
**[09:18] Nazukihiko**
I will ascend to the throne
in one year's time.
**[09:21] Nazukihiko**
I swear I will take a lady
to be my wife before then.
**[09:31] Nazukihiko**
We're leaving, Yukiya.
**[09:43] Atsufusa**
Lord Natsuka!
**[09:46] Natsuka**
One year.
**[09:47] Natsuka**
Until then, no matter what...
***SIGN*** Central Pleasure Quarter
**[09:54] Yukiya**
Uh...
**[09:56] Yukiya**
Excuse me, but...
**[10:00] Yukiya**
What do you think you're *doing*?
**[10:03] Nazukihiko**
Hm?
**[10:04] Nazukihiko**
Just what it looks like:
hiring every courtesan here.
**[10:06] Nazukihiko**
This party is in your honor.
Drink as much as you like.
**[10:11] Courtesan 1**
Don't act so nervous.
**[10:13] Courtesan 1**
We're all here to welcome you.
**[10:15] Courtesan 2**
That's right.
**[10:16] Courtesan 2**
The Young Master's paying for
everything today, so let's drink up.
**[10:20] Yukiya**
I haven't come of age yet.
**[10:24] Nazukihiko**
I hear northern warriors dip their
newborns in sake instead of bathwater.
**[10:29] Courtesan 1**
Come, young sir.
**[10:31] Courtesan 2**
Let's have some fun.
**[10:32] Yukiya**
I... I need to use the lavatory.
**[10:35] Courtesans**
Oh, he's adorable!
**[10:39] Townsman 1**
Looks like a busy night
at the Watchful Moon.
**[10:42] Townsman 1**
That "Young Master" again?
**[10:44] Townsman 2**
He rented out the whole place.
Wish I had that kind of money.
**[10:59] Nazukihiko**
The lavatory is that way.
**[11:02] Yukiya**
Listen—
**[11:06] Nazukihiko**
Have four today.
**[11:11] Yukiya**
Your Highness—
**[11:11] Nazukihiko**
Call me "Young Master" here.
**[11:14] Yukiya**
Young Master, I can't believe you.
**[11:18] Nazukihiko**
Really?
**[11:19] Yukiya**
Just think about it.
**[11:21] Yukiya**
You have assassins after you,
**[11:23] Yukiya**
but here you are, living it up in this
rowdy place without so much as a guard.
**[11:27] Yukiya**
And that council, too.
**[11:29] Yukiya**
What did you do there,
except make enemies?
**[11:39] Nazukihiko**
Are you worried for me?
**[11:45] Yukiya**
Were you listening?
**[11:48] Yukiya**
Oh, fine. Suit yourself.
**[11:59] Yukiya**
The red light district looks like
a different place in the morning, huh?
**[12:19] Yukiya**
Young Master, um...
**[12:32] Ruffian 1**
Hand over that sword.
**[12:36] Nazukihiko**
What do you want? Money?
**[12:40] Ruffian 2**
Quit yapping and do what we say!
**[12:43] Yukiya**
Y-Young Mas—
**[12:44] Nazukihiko**
Very well. We'll obey.
**[12:55] Yukiya**
Lord Sumio?!
**[12:57] Sumio**
Get back!
**[13:05] Ruffian 4**
Die!
**[13:14] Ruffian 2**
We're out of luck. Retreat!
**[13:21] Sumio**
What are you after?
**[13:23] Sumio**
Tell me!
**[13:25] Sumio**
Or else you'll lose more than an arm or two!
**[13:29] Ruffian 1**
I... I was just following orders.
**[13:32] Sumio**
Whose? Speak!
**[13:34] Bandit 1**
I-It was...
**[13:39] Sumio**
Damn.
**[13:48] Sumio**
Poison.
**[13:49] Sumio**
They must have planned
to silence him from the start.
**[13:53] Sumio**
By now, the others must also be...
**[13:56] Nazukihiko**
I see.
**[13:58] Nazukihiko**
Whoever arranged this takes no chances.
**[14:01] Sumio**
If kidnapping had been their goal, such
fast-acting poison wouldn't have been used.
**[14:05] Sumio**
They wanted only one thing.
**[14:07] Nazukihiko**
My life?
**[14:13] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya?
**[14:26] Yukiya**
Your Highness.
**[14:28] Nazukihiko**
Feeling a little better now?
**[14:30] Yukiya**
I beg your pardon. I disgraced myself—
**[14:36] Nazukihiko**
Don't push yourself.
**[14:38] Yukiya**
Right.
**[14:47] Yukiya**
You know who attacked you,
don't you, Your Highness?
**[14:55] Nazukihiko**
Have you heard that Natsuka has backers?
**[15:01] (Flashback) Kiei**
Even so, court ravens who hated
to lose his wisdom organized in secret.
**[15:06] (Flashback) Kiei**
Rumor has it Lord Natsuka's mother,
the Empress, is plotting something.
**[15:13] Yukiya**
Yes.
**[15:14] Nazukihiko**
The faction has its roots in the
Southern House, the Empress's birth family.
**[15:19] Nazukihiko**
But you must have realized
when you saw the council.
**[15:21] Nazukihiko**
No one wants to take my side.
**[15:26] Nazukihiko**
Most court ravens would find it
more convenient if I died.
**[15:32] Yukiya**
That can't be.
**[15:34] Nazukihiko**
I have faced attempts
on my life since childhood.
**[15:38] Nazukihiko**
They claimed other victims.
My mother, for one.
**[15:42] Yukiya**
What?
**[15:43] Nazukihiko**
Like those ladies you saw
in the Cherry Blossom Palace,
**[15:48] Nazukihiko**
my mother came as a lady of the
Western House, her heart full of hopes.
**[15:53] Nazukihiko**
She didn't become consort,
but she was admitted as a concubine.
**[15:57] Nazukihiko**
After giving birth to
my sister, Fujinami, and myself,
**[16:00] Nazukihiko**
she became a casualty
of political scheming.
**[16:05] Nazukihiko**
To escape the assassins, I went to live
with my mother's family, the Western House.
**[16:10] Nazukihiko**
But they only used me.
I had no allies there.
**[16:15] Yukiya**
So you went abroad?
**[16:17] Nazukihiko**
Yes.
**[16:18] Nazukihiko**
The person who wrote to warn me
against the Cherry Blossom Palace
**[16:22] Nazukihiko**
must know of my history and sympathize.
**[16:26] Nazukihiko**
At this age, I've finally returned to
Yamauchi with the means to fight back.
**[16:33] Nazukihiko**
But it would be no exaggeration to call
999 out of 1000 court ravens my enemies.
**[16:41] Nazukihiko**
So tell me, Yukiya...
**[16:46] Nazukihiko**
Will you be that one in 1000?
**[16:50] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[16:52] Nazukihiko**
Become my aide.
**[16:55] Yukiya**
Your aide?
**[16:58] Yukiya**
What?!
**[16:59] Yukiya**
You mean an *aide* aide?
**[17:02] Yukiya**
Your future confidant,
on the fast track to success?
**[17:05] Nazukihiko**
Indeed.
**[17:06] Nazukihiko**
When I become kin'u,
I want you to be my right-hand man.
**[17:11] Yukiya**
Wait, slow down.
**[17:13] Yukiya**
Why would you want that?
**[17:14] Yukiya**
I'm just the blockhead second son
of a lord from the backwaters.
**[17:18] Yukiya**
Central nobles must have sons
who can think rings around me.
**[17:23] Nazukihiko**
Only you completed every task
I assigned you in the allotted time.
**[17:28] Yukiya**
Well, sure, but people in
the Center don't shift shape much,
**[17:32] Yukiya**
so I bet they borrowed horses
to fetch the water.
**[17:35] Nazukihiko**
You left the flowers you watered alone,
even when they withered.
**[17:40] Yukiya**
I mean, I figured you were comparing
water from the well and the falls.
**[17:46] Nazukihiko**
You didn't do my poetry assignments, either.
**[17:48] Yukiya**
I didn't think you needed me to.
**[17:51] Nazukihiko**
Correct on all counts.
**[17:53] Nazukihiko**
But the others panicked when the
flowers died or lost sleep writing verses.
**[18:00] Nazukihiko**
Some even hired people
to work for them in secret.
**[18:04] Yukiya**
Your Highness is no saint,
either, if you ask me.
**[18:08] Nazukihiko**
You are no blockhead.
**[18:10] Nazukihiko**
I assume you had your reasons for
that fuss at the Northern House, too.
**[18:15] Yukiya**
How else could I keep Taruhi
safe from tyrannical nobles?
**[18:21] Yukiya**
You're not a fool like
everyone says, either, are you?
**[18:26] Nazukihiko**
I don't care how others choose to see me.
**[18:32] Yukiya**
Anyway, I respectfully decline.
**[18:35] Yukiya**
Although I'm honored by the offer.
**[18:38] Nazukihiko**
Is that so?
**[18:40] Nazukihiko**
Won't you go to Unbending Reed Monastery
if I send you home in under a year?
**[18:46] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[18:47] Yukiya**
What, so you're threatening me now?
**[18:50] Nazukihiko**
Not threatening. Just reflecting.
**[18:54] Yukiya**
Now, hang on!
**[18:55] Yukiya**
How do you even know that?
You weren't at the Northern House's party!
**[18:59] Nazukihiko**
Well, I *am* a true kin'u.
**[19:03] Yukiya**
That doesn't explain anything.
**[19:05] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya, I plan to finish things
in under a year.
**[19:10] Nazukihiko**
I shall take a bride from the Cherry
Blossom Palace and ascend to the throne.
**[19:15] Nazukihiko**
But I cannot marry before
I capture those who want me dead.
**[19:21] Nazukihiko**
Right now, I need allies
I can trust without question.
**[19:28] Nazukihiko**
I am so inept, I do not blame
anyone for calling me a fool.
**[19:34] Nazukihiko**
But you know, Yukiya...
**[19:36] Nazukihiko**
I still consider myself
a good judge of people.
**[19:40] Nazukihiko**
You will never betray me.
**[19:46] Nazukihiko**
Why? Because I doubt my enemies
can offer you anything you would value
**[19:52] Nazukihiko**
more than the trust I place in you.
**[20:09] Yukiya**
Very well. I'll become your aide.
**[20:13] Nazukihiko**
Really? You accept, then?
**[20:16] Yukiya**
But like we agreed at first,
I'll take my leave after one year.
**[20:21] Yukiya**
I care about my family
and my home in Taruhi.
**[20:26] Nazukihiko**
All right. I do not mind.
At least for now.
**[20:29] Sumio**
Your Highness, I have returned.
**[20:32] Nazukihiko**
Sumio, Yukiya just agreed.
**[20:35] Nazukihiko**
He says he'll become my aide.
**[20:37] Sumio**
What? Really?
**[20:39] Sumio**
That's great!
**[20:42] Yukiya**
U-Um...
**[20:45] Sumio**
Oh, you see, we've known
each other since we were kids.
**[20:49] Sumio**
But it wouldn't look right if we got
too chummy in public, you know?
**[20:54] Yukiya**
Lord Sumio...
**[20:56] Sumio**
Just "Sumio" is fine.
**[20:58] Sumio**
Sorry I startled you.
**[20:59] Sumio**
But from now on, you're one of us.
**[21:03] Sumio**
Try not to get too uptight.
**[21:06] Yukiya**
Uh-huh.
**[21:07] Sumio**
Anyway, I'm glad that worked out.
**[21:10] Sumio**
I thought we were
cutting it close this time.
**[21:13] Nazukihiko**
Yes. The risks we ran paid off.
**[21:20] Yukiya**
Um, excuse me.
**[21:22] Nazukihiko**
Yes?
**[21:23] Yukiya**
Did you just say something
about "running risks"?
**[21:29] Nazukihiko**
You heard me right.
**[21:31] Yukiya**
So you did that on purpose,
knowing they'd attack you?
**[21:36] Nazukihiko**
Yes.
**[21:37] Yukiya**
"Yes"?!
**[21:38] Nazukihiko**
I didn't think I could convince you
unless you understood my situation.
**[21:44] Nazukihiko**
I stirred up trouble at the council,
so I expected them to make a move soon.
**[21:49] Yukiya**
You "expected"...
**[21:51] Yukiya**
Then, that whole hullabaloo was...
**[21:54] Nazukihiko**
Bait to draw out the traitors, of course.
**[21:58] Nazukihiko**
Quite effective, wouldn't you say?
**[22:00] Yukiya**
What are you, *stupid*?!
**[22:03] Yukiya**
What do you take your enemies for?
**[22:06] Yukiya**
"Bait to draw out the traitors"?
One of these days, you'll die for real!
**[22:09] Sumio**
Now, now. He didn't mean any harm.
**[22:12] Yukiya**
Huh? What difference does that make?
**[22:15] Yukiya**
He's the crown prince. There's no way
he should be taking a risk like that.
**[22:20] Sumio**
Don't worry. I know what you mean.
**[22:23] Sumio**
But he can't get things done any other way.
**[22:27] Sumio**
You'll understand sooner or later.
**[22:32] Nazukihiko**
And there you have it.
**[22:33] Yukiya**
You don't get to say that.
**[22:36] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya, you're worth 100 men to me.
**[22:40] Nazukihiko**
I'm counting on you.
**[22:43] Yukiya**
Jeez. Just for a year, okay? I mean it.
**[22:55] Nazukihiko**
Forgive me.
**[22:56] Yukiya**
You monster!
**[24:31] Narrator**
* Having accepted the post of aide*
* for only a single year,*
**[24:36] Narrator**
* Yukiya unwittingly infiltrates the Ravine*
* and witnesses a dreadful conference.*
**[24:45] Narrator**
* Who orchestrated*
* the assault on the Prince?*
**[24:49] Narrator**
*Next time: "A Purge."*
***SIGN*** A Purge
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E5 - A Purge
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GWDU8233D/a-purge)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:02] Dealer**
All fine? No objections?
**[00:05] Dealer**
In they go.
**[00:10] Assistant 1**
There! The dice are cast!
**[00:12] Gambler 4**
Even!
**[00:13] Gambler 2**
Even!
**[00:14] Gambler 3**
Even!
**[00:16] Assistant 1**
No bets on odd? None at all?
**[00:23] Nazukihiko**
Odd.
**[00:26] Assistant 1**
All bets accounted for.
**[00:30] Yukiya**
Come on, odd! Odd!
**[00:34] Assistant 1**
Four and two. Even.
**[00:40] Assistant 1**
You've lost 50 ryo in all.
**[00:42] Yukiya**
What are we gonna do now, young master?!
**[00:44] Yukiya**
You already gave them your kimono
and sword! You've got nothing left!
**[00:49] Assistant 2**
Indeed, young master. How *will* you pay?
**[00:52] Assistant 1**
We can hook you up with
a lucrative job, if you like.
**[01:00] Nazukihiko**
No, you need not bother.
**[01:04] Nazukihiko**
I will leave him as collateral.
**[01:11] Yukiya**
You monster!
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** The Ravine
**[02:56] Man 1**
Yukiya.
**[02:57] Man 1**
Clean the gambling hall
once you finish up here.
**[03:00] Yukiya**
Right.
**[03:00] Man 1**
And when you're done cleaning—
**[03:02] Yukiya**
I know, I know.
Dry the bedding from the brothel, right?
**[03:06] Man 1**
If you know, pick up the pace.
**[03:09] Courtesan 1**
Hang in there, Yuki!
**[03:10] Yukiya**
I will!
**[03:15] Courtesan 2**
What a good worker.
**[03:17] Courtesan 2**
The men say he's too good
to leave as collateral.
**[03:24] Courtesan 3**
But he's been here a month and a half now.
**[03:26] Courtesan 3**
Don't you think his young master
must have abandoned him?
**[03:37] Nazukihiko**
Working hard, I see.
**[03:42] Nazukihiko**
I finally got my funds in order.
I know I've kept you waiting.
**[03:48] Yukiya**
Y-Young master.
**[03:51] Yukiya**
Young master!
**[04:02] Yukiya**
D-Damn it.
**[04:14] Yukiya**
Your Highness, where are we going?
**[04:19] Yukiya**
We've been climbing for a while now.
**[04:23] Yukiya**
I can't take much more—
**[04:25] Nazukihiko**
We're here.
**[04:41] Sumio**
Hey there.
**[04:42] Brothel Owner**
Welcome back, sirs.
**[04:46] Yukiya**
Where are we?
**[04:48] Sumio**
In the basement of the Watchful Moon.
**[04:50] Sumio**
We asked the owner
to leave it unlocked for us.
**[04:52] Yukiya**
So this is the red-light district?
**[04:55] Yukiya**
The passage runs all the way here
from the gambling den in the Ravine?
**[04:58] Nazukihiko**
Such tunnels run through the
Central Mountain like an anthill.
**[05:04] Nazukihiko**
Most have outlets behind bushes in the wild
or under temples and houses of—
**[05:10] Yukiya**
Oh, right. So they're secret escape routes
for court ravens who sneak out at night.
**[05:19] Sumio**
Rumor has it a ton of guys have
gotten lost and died underground.
**[05:24] Sumio**
Be careful if you use them.
**[05:28] Nazukihiko**
Oh, and Yukiya...
I've learned my lesson.
**[05:32] Nazukihiko**
I placed a terrible burden on you.
**[05:35] Yukiya**
Oh, it wasn't that bad.
**[05:36] Nazukihiko**
I'd like to recompense you today.
**[05:39] Nazukihiko**
Master, I'm booking the whole house tonight.
**[05:42] Brothel Owner**
Certainly, sir.
**[05:44] Nazukihiko**
Gather all of your prettiest girls—
**[05:46] Yukiya**
I really wish you wouldn't!
**[05:55] Yukiya**
It happened just the other day.
**[05:57] Yukiya**
Some guests at a brothel in the Ravine
looked like they didn't belong.
**[06:03] Yukiya**
Coming through!
**[06:08] Courtesan**
The nerve of some people!
**[06:10] Courtesan**
They ask for me by name,
then don't even let me pour their drinks.
**[06:26] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Have you heard that Natsuka has backers?
**[06:32] Yukiya**
*Oh, I get it. This is...*
**[06:35] Yukiya**
*a meeting of Natsuka's backers.*
**[07:01] Court Raven 1**
If I may, Sir Rokon...
**[07:08] Court Raven 1**
Would you at least tell us
the purpose of this gathering?
**[07:13] Court Raven 1**
What do you mean by, "Let anyone
who cares to explain himself come forward"?
**[07:18] Court Raven 2**
Does Lord Natsuka know of today's meeting?
**[07:23] Rokon**
I haven't informed Lord Natsuka.
It isn't worth his time.
**[07:28] Rokon**
I called you all here for just one reason:
to uproot the rot for all to see.
**[07:37] Rokon**
Isn't that right, Kazumichi?
**[07:42] Yukiya**
*Kazumichi?*
**[07:44] (Flashback) Kazumichi**
You can forget about
attending to the Prince after this!
**[07:47] (Flashback) Kazumichi**
Do you realize how hard
I worked to arrange that?
**[07:52] Yukiya**
*Kazumaro's father backs Natsuka?*
**[07:55] Yukiya**
*Why would a northern court raven do that?*
**[07:58] Yukiya**
* I heard the Southern House*
* was behind his faction.*
**[08:02] Kazumichi**
Wh-Whatever do you mean, Sir Rokon?
**[08:05] Rokon**
A month and a half ago, you plotted
to have ruffians assassinate the Prince.
**[08:13] Rokon**
And your scheme failed miserably.
**[08:16] Rokon**
Even giving you the benefit of the doubt
and assuming you acted for Lord Natsuka,
**[08:22] Rokon**
you still committed
a fatal blunder you can't fix.
**[08:27] Kazumichi**
Wh-What? I know nothing of this matter.
**[08:30] Kazumichi**
Why, this is the first I've even heard
of an attack on His Highness.
**[08:34] Kazumichi**
Now, if you'll excuse me.
**[08:42] Rokon**
Don't think you can fool me, Kazumichi.
**[08:45] Rokon**
I have proof.
**[08:47] Rokon**
You dosed the brigands with poison.
**[08:51] Rokon**
It was in the drinks you bought them
"for courage" before the attack.
**[08:56] Rokon**
However, one ruffian
couldn't hold his liquor.
**[09:00] Rokon**
He refused the offer of a drink.
**[09:03] Rokon**
But seeing his comrades all
fall around him broke his nerve.
**[09:07] Rokon**
Seeking sanctuary, he ran to a temple.
Clear Mirror Temple, if you can believe it.
**[09:13] Rokon**
What if he had run to a temple
in the Prince's pocket?
**[09:20] Rokon**
He'd be living proof leading back to you,
and even Lord Natsuka would face blame.
**[09:26] Rokon**
How would you have taken
responsibility if that had happened?
**[09:29] Kazumichi**
I... I would have... I would have...
**[09:32] Rokon**
How many times did I tell you?
**[09:35] Rokon**
"Whatever you do, no rash moves."
**[09:37] Rokon**
"And if you *do* make one, do it right."
**[09:51] Atsufusa**
What are you doing?
**[09:54] Atsufusa**
Sir Kazumichi, are you all right?
**[09:59] Yukiya**
* I know that court raven.*
* Isn't he Lord Natsuka's aide?*
**[10:06] Rokon**
Atsufusa. I didn't see you here,
so I assumed you had something to hide.
**[10:13] Atsufusa**
You must be mad.
**[10:16] Atsufusa**
If the Northern House learns of this,
they'll turn on us altogether.
**[10:20] Rokon**
Fool. That's why I'm doing this in secret.
**[10:24] Atsufusa**
Do you, a bodyguard, have that authority?
We must defer to His Lordship.
**[10:42] Natsuka**
Explain all this fuss, Rokon.
**[10:45] Rokon**
Why, Lord Natsuka.
**[10:47] Rokon**
I was merely asking the man behind
the blunder we discussed to explain himself.
**[10:52] Rokon**
You needn't concern yourself.
**[10:55] Atsufusa**
Sir Rokon is invoking your illustrious
name to commit brutalities.
**[11:00] Atsufusa**
All your efforts to win over the
Northern House may come to naught.
**[11:07] Atsufusa**
No, worse than that—
**[11:09] Rokon**
Lord Natsuka, you must know
that I have given my all for you.
**[11:19] Rokon**
Won't you please trust me?
**[11:26] Natsuka**
Very well.
**[11:39] Rokon**
Kazumichi, something's been puzzling me.
**[11:43] Rokon**
Would a coward like you
really take such a big risk?
**[11:48] Rokon**
Are you sure no one put you up to it?
**[11:51] Kazumichi**
No. No!
**[11:53] Rokon**
Out with it, Kazumichi.
**[11:56] Kazumichi**
I just thought,
with the Prince out of the way,
**[11:59] Kazumichi**
Lord Natsuka would become our next kin'u.
**[12:02] Kazumichi**
I simply wished to help.
**[12:05] Rokon**
You've been using Lord Natsuka's
name to borrow money.
**[12:11] Rokon**
And not only have you not paid it back,
you've been extorting hill ravens, I hear.
**[12:18] Atsufusa**
Sir Kazumichi would never...
**[12:22] Rokon**
Did you think I wouldn't find out?
**[12:25] Rokon**
I've also heard you started
panicking recently
**[12:27] Rokon**
because your son lost you favor
with the Northern House.
**[12:32] Rokon**
Did you think Lord Natsuka would pay off
your debts if you killed the Prince?
**[12:38] Rokon**
And that he'd forgive all your other crimes?
**[12:45] Kazumichi**
Lord Natsuka!
**[12:46] Kazumichi**
Have mercy! I beg you, spare me!
**[12:52] Kazumichi**
Please spare me! Sir Atsufusa! Sir Atsufusa!
**[12:57] Rokon**
Watch closely, all of you.
**[13:00] Rokon**
See what happens to those
who defy Lord Natsuka's will.
**[13:33] Atsufusa**
How gruesome.
**[13:34] Natsuka**
Atsufusa.
**[13:36] Natsuka**
Rokon stepped forward to dirty his hands.
**[13:40] Natsuka**
This matter would not have
resolved itself otherwise.
**[13:48] Sumio**
I see.
**[13:50] Sumio**
So a rogue court raven did it.
**[13:54] Sumio**
They'll blame Kazumichi's death
on robbers or cutthroats,
**[13:59] Sumio**
and I doubt that ruffian is still alive.
**[14:02] Sumio**
Any more digging seems
like a waste of time.
**[14:05] Yukiya**
Um...
**[14:07] Yukiya**
I'm not sure I really follow, but where does
Lord Natsuka stand in his own faction?
**[14:13] Yukiya**
I mean...
**[14:14] Nazukihiko**
Natsuka issues no orders himself.
**[14:17] Nazukihiko**
The others champion him and
do what they imagine he wants.
**[14:22] Nazukihiko**
That's how his faction operates,
making it hard to get a clear picture.
**[14:26] Yukiya**
So that's how it works.
**[14:28] Sumio**
Anything else to report?
**[14:30] Yukiya**
Well, I was thinking someone
must have masterminded the attack.
**[14:35] Sumio**
A mastermind?
**[14:36] Yukiya**
Like Rokon said,
**[14:38] Yukiya**
Kazumichi didn't seem clever enough
to poison his henchmen ahead of time.
**[14:44] Yukiya**
I thought maybe Lord Natsuka had
ordered it, but going by what you just said...
**[14:49] Sumio**
Well, you don't have much evidence.
**[14:52] Yukiya**
I guess not.
**[14:54] Sumio**
And Kazumichi didn't name names,
even when being threatened by Rokon?
**[14:58] Yukiya**
Right.
**[15:02] Yukiya**
What about the Empress?
**[15:04] Sumio**
Very likely, but we can't prove it.
**[15:08] Sumio**
If only Kazumichi were still alive.
**[15:18] Yukiya**
Well then, good night.
**[15:23] Nazukihiko**
You may not need me to tell you this,
**[15:26] Nazukihiko**
but if you feel the least bit of guilt
for Kazumichi's rash acts, it is misplaced.
**[15:35] Nazukihiko**
He would have done much
the same sooner or later.
**[15:39] Nazukihiko**
You need not let it bother you.
**[15:44] Yukiya**
Right.
**[15:45] Nazukihiko**
Oh, and you impressed the Ravine-dwellers.
**[15:49] Nazukihiko**
"The boy can work," they said.
"Take your money back. Just let us keep him."
**[15:55] Nazukihiko**
I refused, of course.
**[15:57] Yukiya**
Um, Your Highness?
**[15:58] Nazukihiko**
Yes?
**[15:59] Yukiya**
Do you mean to say
you'd already paid them?
**[16:01] Nazukihiko**
Yes. They'll do anything for me,
so long as I pay.
**[16:05] Yukiya**
I knew it.
**[16:07] Nazukihiko**
Hm?
**[16:08] Yukiya**
You knew all along, didn't you?
About Natsuka's backers meeting there.
**[16:13] Yukiya**
That's why you abandoned me
in the Ravine like that.
**[16:17] Nazukihiko**
Didn't I tell you that was why?
**[16:19] Yukiya**
Not one word!
**[16:21] Yukiya**
I thought you'd sold me off for real!
**[16:25] Yukiya**
I slaved from dawn to dusk!
**[16:27] Yukiya**
Why do you always keep me in the dark?
**[16:29] Yukiya**
Why don't you ever tell me
the plan ahead of time?
**[16:33] Nazukihiko**
Sorry about that.
**[16:40] Yukiya**
Do you think you can
buy me off with these?!
***SIGN*** Cherry Blossom Palace
**[16:44] Novice Lady-in-Waiting**
Do you think His Highness
will finally visit this time?
***SIGN*** Autumn Hall
**[16:48] Lady-in-Waiting 1**
Of course he will.
**[16:50] Lady-in-Waiting 1**
Tanabata is one of the
most crucial steps in the rite.
**[16:53] Lady-in-Waiting 2**
The ladies vying for the Crown
Prince's hand have spent a year
**[16:58] Lady-in-Waiting 2**
sewing kimono that match
their own to give to him.
**[17:01] Lady-in-Waiting 2**
They hang their gifts outside their halls.
**[17:03] Lady-in-Waiting 2**
If His Highness wears one, it is said
to bode well for the lady who sewed it.
**[17:10] Novice Lady-in-Waiting**
So Tanabata cannot go forward without him?
**[17:13] Lady-in-Waiting 3**
Of course, professionals
do the *actual* sewing.
**[17:17] Lady-in-Waiting 3**
The ladies only add the last stitch, if that.
**[17:20] Lady-in-Waiting 3**
Only *our* lady would
actually do it all herself.
**[17:24] Kikuno**
You there.
**[17:25] Kikuno**
Stop twittering and get to work.
**[17:29] Ladies-in-Waiting**
Yes, ma'am.
**[17:35] Masuho**
Kikuno.
**[17:36] Kikuno**
Y-Yes, my lady?
**[17:37] Masuho**
Has His Highness written?
**[17:41] Kikuno**
No, not yet.
**[17:43] Masuho**
I see.
**[17:46] Kikuno**
His Highness must be busy.
I am sure none of the other ladies have—
**[17:50] Masuho**
Ow.
**[17:51] Kikuno**
Are you hurt?
**[17:53] Masuho**
You always overreact, Kikuno.
**[17:56] Masuho**
Now, go. You're distracting me.
**[18:00] Kikuno**
His Highness will surely come on Tanabata.
**[18:02] Kikuno**
I know His Lordship wrote to the Prince,
strongly requesting his presence.
***SIGN*** Spring Hall
**[18:21] Asebi**
All done.
**[18:22] Ukogi**
And well done.
**[18:23] Ukogi**
His Highness will be delighted.
**[18:26] Asebi**
But I only added one stitch.
**[18:29] Asebi**
Is there not more I can do?
I could help decorate.
**[18:33] Ukogi**
I appreciate the offer, my lady, but no.
**[18:35] Ukogi**
Please relax and play your koto.
**[18:41] Spring Hall Lady-in-Waiting**
My lady.
**[18:43] Spring Hall Lady-in-Waiting**
A royal lady-in-waiting wishes to see you.
**[18:46] Asebi**
Royal?
**[18:50] Asebi**
Samomo!
**[18:51] Asebi**
I am so glad to see you.
**[18:55] Samomo**
Forgive me. I know you must be
busy preparing for Tanabata.
**[19:00] Asebi**
Hardly. In fact, I was bored.
**[19:02] Asebi**
I feel like no one expects much of me.
**[19:05] Samomo**
Surely you jest.
**[19:07] Asebi**
No, I mean it.
**[19:09] Asebi**
But I cannot blame them.
**[19:12] Asebi**
Coming to the palace has highlighted
how little knowledge and skill I have.
**[19:17] Asebi**
I have no right to be here.
**[19:20] Samomo**
I disagree.
**[19:22] Samomo**
You are beautiful and kind, Lady Asebi.
**[19:25] Samomo**
You would make a wonderful consort.
**[19:29] Asebi**
Samomo...
**[19:31] Samomo**
Please take heart.
**[19:33] Samomo**
I have brought a gift
from Princess Fujinami.
**[19:40] Asebi**
My! A nagon koto, and a magnificent one.
**[19:45] Samomo**
I believe its name is Drifting Cloud.
**[19:47] Asebi**
Drifting Cloud?
**[19:49] Asebi**
Princess Fujinami wants me to have it?
**[19:51] Samomo**
She says she spoke of you to a
certain person, who granted permission.
**[19:57] Asebi**
Who might that be?
**[19:59] Samomo**
Someone of high birth. She said no more.
**[20:04] Asebi**
Cherry blossoms and mist.
**[20:27] Ukogi**
Drifting Cloud?
**[20:37] Asebi**
*When was it?*
**[21:01] Asebi**
*The boy wore purple.*
**[21:06] Asebi**
*Of course! Why didn't I realize?*
**[21:09] Asebi**
* Only the most noble members of*
* the Royal House may dress in purple.*
**[21:13] Asebi**
*Then, that boy must have been... the Prince?*
**[21:24] Asebi**
* I came to the palace*
* so I could see my first love again.*
**[21:38] Yukiya**
What are you frowning for?
**[21:41] Nazukihiko**
I just received a threat.
**[21:43] Yukiya**
Y-You got a *what*?!
**[21:50] Yukiya**
So, basically, "I shall overlook
Your Highness's sloth thus far."
**[21:56] Yukiya**
"But whatever happens, no matter how grave,
**[21:59] Yukiya**
you absolutely *must* visit the
Cherry Blossom Palace on Tanabata!"
**[22:04] Yukiya**
Hey, isn't this...
**[22:05] Nazukihiko**
Yes. From the Lord of the West.
**[22:08] Yukiya**
Jeez, don't scare me like that.
**[22:11] Nazukihiko**
That man has no doubt
that I will wed his daughter,
**[22:16] Nazukihiko**
so he wants to make me
visit her and seal the deal.
**[22:21] Yukiya**
"S-Seal the deal"?
**[22:24] Nazukihiko**
By wearing her kimono, of course.
**[22:27] Yukiya**
S-Still, Tanabata, huh?
**[22:30] Yukiya**
You really can't sit this one out, can you?
**[22:35] Yukiya**
Your Highness?
**[22:36] Nazukihiko**
I don't want to go.
**[22:46] Sumio**
Atsufusa?
**[22:48] Atsufusa**
I beg of you!
**[22:50] Atsufusa**
Let me speak with His Highness!
**[22:52] Atsufusa**
I realize the impertinence
of my request, but please!
**[24:31] Narrator**
*Natsuka's aide, Atsufusa.*
**[24:34] Narrator**
* This unexpected visitor*
* asks a favor of the Prince.*
**[24:39] Narrator**
*On Tanabata in the Cherry Blossom Palace,*
**[24:42] Narrator**
* the tune Asebi plucks on her koto*
* makes waves in women's hearts.*
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "A Tanabata Invitation."*
***SIGN*** A Tanabata
***SIGN*** Invitation
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E6 - A Tanabata Invitation
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GG1U2JVVZ/a-tanabata-invitation)
Translator:
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(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
***SIGN*** Wisteria Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[00:12] Fujinami**
Samomo.
**[00:13] Samomo**
Oh, is Your Highness awake?
**[00:16] Fujinami**
How was Lady Asebi?
**[00:19] Samomo**
She was delighted.
**[00:22] Samomo**
She even played the koto for me.
**[00:25] Fujinami**
Did she?
**[00:27] Fujinami**
I wish I could have heard.
**[00:31] Samomo**
Please, don't strain yourself.
**[00:33] Samomo**
The weight of your responsibilities
must be taking its toll.
**[00:41] Fujinami**
Listen, Samomo.
I've never had anyone but myself.
**[00:46] Fujinami**
My brother treats me kindly,
but we can rarely see each other.
**[00:51] Fujinami**
In my loneliness,
I lashed out at those around me.
**[00:56] Fujinami**
I don't think I was a very nice child.
**[01:00] Fujinami**
Yet Lady Asebi cared for me
like a younger sister.
**[01:14] Fujinami**
I even took to calling her "Sister" myself.
**[01:25] Samomo**
And in truth, you wish
to become real sisters?
**[01:31] Samomo**
I understand.
**[01:33] Samomo**
Your loyal Samomo will aid Lady Asebi
in marrying the Prince in any way I can.
**[01:37] Samomo**
So please, set your mind at ease and rest.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[03:14] Nazukihiko**
You say you will help
put me on the throne?
**[03:17] Atsufusa**
Yes, Your Highness.
**[03:19] Nazukihiko**
But you...
**[03:20] Atsufusa**
I support Lord Natsuka,
whose faction opposes you.
**[03:24] Atsufusa**
I doubt I could deceive Your Highness,
so allow me to be frank.
**[03:29] Atsufusa**
I will safeguard you from the schemes
of Lord Natsuka's backers.
**[03:34] Atsufusa**
In exchange, I wish you to shelter
Lord Natsuka when you ascend to the throne.
**[03:42] Atsufusa**
Our faction began honestly enough
**[03:45] Atsufusa**
as a simple gathering of court ravens
drawn to Lord Natsuka's character.
**[03:49] Atsufusa**
But before we knew it,
our ranks were infiltrated by extremists,
**[03:53] Atsufusa**
bent on making Lord Natsuka the kin'u
to further their own political ends.
**[03:58] Atsufusa**
And now, they gain strength
under Rokon's leadership.
**[04:02] Atsufusa**
What they practice is not loyalty.
**[04:05] Atsufusa**
If they are not stopped, Lord Natsuka
will be branded a rebel for Rokon's misdeeds.
**[04:10] Nazukihiko**
And you have no issue with my accession?
**[04:14] Atsufusa**
Lord Natsuka promoted me,
a minor noble without a patron.
**[04:20] Atsufusa**
He wishes for nothing more
than peace in Yamauchi.
**[04:24] Atsufusa**
And I value nothing more than his life.
**[04:30] Nazukihiko**
I understand, but I would like to see
your work before I make up my mind.
**[04:36] Atsufusa**
As Your Highness wishes.
**[04:38] Nazukihiko**
I see. Then, I realize this is sudden,
but I would like you to do something for me.
**[04:47] Yukiya; Sumio**
What?
**[04:50] Natsuka**
I hope Your Majesty
will forgive my long absence.
**[04:53] Natsuka**
It delights me to find our Empress so well.
**[04:56] Empress**
Spare me the formalities.
It is good to see you, my son.
**[05:02] Natsuka**
Ma'am.
**[05:04] Empress**
The ladies-in-waiting expect to finally
catch a glimpse of the Prince on Tanabata.
**[05:10] Empress**
Their bustling puts me out of sorts.
**[05:13] Natsuka**
That is unfortunate.
Is that the reason for the karon incense?
**[05:18] Empress**
It does offer some relief.
**[05:21] Empress**
But enough of that.
**[05:23] Empress**
What will you do on Tanabata?
**[05:25] Natsuka**
Lord Toru has invited me to
celebrate it at his southern palace.
**[05:30] Empress**
I put in a word for you.
**[05:33] Empress**
I expect Toru's daughter will attend.
**[05:36] Empress**
You may become acquainted
even with a screen between you.
**[05:39] Natsuka**
I have devoted myself to the Mountain God.
**[05:42] Empress**
How dull.
**[05:44] Empress**
Still, those of the Southern House
hide their thoughts even from family.
**[05:49] Empress**
In that sense, you may be
more "Southern" than any of us.
**[06:00] Yukiya**
Sheesh. What is His Highness thinking?
**[06:04] Atsufusa**
Can't you see the fun in it?
**[06:07] Atsufusa**
Still, His Highness gave me
quite a role to play.
**[06:10] Atsufusa**
I must succeed if I am to win his trust.
**[06:13] Yukiya**
Please take care, Sir Atsufusa.
**[06:17] Yukiya**
If Sir Rokon were ever to find out...
**[06:19] Atsufusa**
I appreciate your concern,
aide to our future kin'u.
**[06:25] Atsufusa**
I dreamed of securing that position
for myself until not long ago,
**[06:30] Atsufusa**
but I think I will let you have the honor.
**[06:39] Sumio**
Stay on your guard.
**[06:41] Sumio**
Atsufusa comes from the
Southern House, just like the Empress.
**[06:45] Sumio**
Still, he has real backbone.
Think he'd join us if Nazukihiko asked him?
**[06:57] Yukiya**
White.
**[06:59] Yukiya**
White. White. White.
***SIGN*** Spring Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[07:13] Asebi**
What lovely weather.
Tonight should be perfect for stargazing.
**[07:18] Ukogi**
Hold still, my lady.
You must dress with special care today.
**[07:22] Ukogi**
You will be coming face-to-face
with the Prince at last.
**[07:25] Asebi**
Y-You're right. Now I feel a little nervous.
**[07:29] Samomo**
You look gorgeous, Lady Asebi.
**[07:31] Asebi**
Thank you, Samomo.
**[07:32] Ukogi**
What news of the other houses, Miss Samomo?
**[07:35] Samomo**
Well, they all look lovely, but the Western
House seems especially magnificent.
**[07:42] Samomo**
They have set out kimonos and ornaments
in the reds that Lady Masuho-no-Susuki favors.
**[07:47] Ukogi**
How I envy them.
**[07:49] Ukogi**
It would hardly hurt the Lord of the East
to loosen his purse strings a little.
**[07:55] Asebi**
Don't just complain.
**[07:57] Asebi**
Look, we still have a kimono
we haven't hung up yet.
**[07:59] Ukogi**
Ah! Stay still, my lady!
**[08:01] Ukogi**
Please try to keep calm.
**[08:04] Asebi**
I'm hopeless, aren't I?
**[08:07] Samomo**
Let us go peek at the stargazing party.
It will surely cheer you up.
**[08:49] Masuho**
How do you do, Lady Asebi?
**[08:52] Asebi**
L-Lady Masuho-no-Susuki! I beg your pardon.
**[08:55] Asebi**
Your kimono looks so lovely that I, well...
**[08:58] Masuho**
Thank you. I spent a year making it.
**[09:02] Masuho**
I sewed every stitch of my kimono
as well as His Highness's myself.
**[09:07] Asebi**
*You* sewed them?
Not your ladies-in-waiting?
**[09:11] Masuho**
Of course.
**[09:13] Masuho**
How could I let another woman
make my gift to the man I love?
**[09:21] Masuho**
Oh, don't worry. You look charming, too.
**[09:29] Fujinami**
Lady Asebi.
**[09:31] Asebi**
Princess Fujinami.
**[09:34] Fujinami**
Oh, good. I see you're all here.
**[09:38] Fujinami**
We still have time
before His Highness arrives.
**[09:41] Fujinami**
Would you play your koto
for us, here and now?
**[09:45] Asebi**
What? But Princess Fujinami, um...
**[09:48] Ukogi**
My lady.
**[09:49] Ukogi**
If you desire your koto,
it is ready for you.
**[09:52] Asebi**
Ukogi, when did you...
**[09:54] Fujinami**
Please, Lady Asebi.
**[10:01] Asebi**
But I...
**[10:03] Hamayu**
What's this? Running away *again*?
**[10:06] Hamayu**
You *are* a lady of the
Eastern house, remember.
**[10:09] Hamayu**
Don't you want to
shut them up for a change?
**[11:49] Hamayu**
They say thoughtless words only
disgrace the speaker. Now you know why.
**[11:56] Hamayu**
Well, consider it a lesson learned.
**[11:59] Masuho**
I do not recall asking your opinion.
**[12:05] Fujinami**
What a wonderful performance.
**[12:08] Fujinami**
You simply must play for my brother, too.
**[12:11] Asebi**
Oh, but I...
**[12:13] Samomo**
Lady Hamayu.
**[12:16] Samomo**
Thank you for encouraging Lady Asebi.
**[12:20] Hamayu**
Don't mention it. I was merely bored.
**[12:25] Cha-no-Hana**
Thank you for delighting our ears.
The East is justly famed for its musicians.
**[12:31] Asebi**
Th-Thank you.
**[12:33] Cha-no-Hana**
Still, what a large koto.
**[12:35] Asebi**
Only the Eastern House uses them.
**[12:37] Cha-no-Hana**
Oh, yes, I am well aware.
**[12:40] Cha-no-Hana**
I even recall seeing those cherry
blossoms and mist before, long ago.
**[12:44] Fujinami**
Cha-no-Hana. I received the proper
permissions before giving it to her.
**[12:48] Cha-no-Hana**
If you will pardon me, Princess Fujinami,
you have a duty to remain neutral.
**[12:52] Cha-no-Hana**
Would it be proper for you
to show a single lady favor?
**[12:57] Cha-no-Hana**
She wins your trust with an innocent face.
A veritable Lady Raven.
**[13:03] Asebi**
Who is "Lady Raven"?
**[13:04] Cha-no-Hana**
You don't know?
**[13:06] Cha-no-Hana**
Her tale is of a lowly raven
disguised as a beautiful lady
**[13:09] Cha-no-Hana**
who steals into the palace, seduces
the crown prince, and pays with her life.
**[13:15] Ukogi**
My lady, pay her no heed.
**[13:17] Cha-no-Hana**
If you care for your lady,
I suggest you teach her.
**[13:22] Cha-no-Hana**
Lest she repeat her mother's performance
in Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[13:26] Asebi**
My mother's?
**[13:28] Asebi**
What do you mean by that?
**[13:31] Cha-no-Hana**
Far be it from me to say. My lips are seal—
**[13:36] Cha-no-Hana**
What is the meaning of this?
**[13:37] Ukogi**
Shut your sly old beak!
**[13:39] Cha-no-Hana**
What? I could say the same to you!
**[13:43] Takimoto**
Calm yourselves, both of you.
**[13:45] Ukogi**
No. I cannot remain silent
when my lady's honor is concerned!
**[13:49] Cha-no-Hana**
Indeed. We need no assistance.
**[13:52] Ukogi**
What gave you the right to address her
at all? You, a lady-in-waiting...
**[13:57] Asebi**
Why did Cha-no-Hana recognize that koto?
**[14:00] Asebi**
And what did she mean about
"Lady Raven" and my mother?
**[14:04] Asebi**
Ukogi won't tell me anything,
and I can't ask anyone else.
**[14:10] Asebi**
Tell me, Samomo, what should I do?
**[14:13] Samomo**
Lady Asebi...
**[14:14] Fujinami**
Lady Asebi!
**[14:17] Fujinami**
Forgive me. I should never
have placed you in that position.
**[14:21] Asebi**
Princess Fujinami.
**[14:23] Fujinami**
Cherry Blossom Palace is always like this.
**[14:26] Fujinami**
Everyone undermines each other and
twists inconvenient truths to get ahead.
**[14:32] Fujinami**
That's why I want you to marry
my dear brother and join me at court.
**[14:45] Asebi**
I understand.
**[14:46] Fujinami**
Oh, Sister! Thank goodness.
**[14:49] Asebi**
Though I doubt I have what it takes.
**[14:52] Fujinami**
Not at all. I promise
I'll help you in any way I can.
**[14:57] Asebi**
Truly?
**[14:59] Asebi**
Then, would you leave Samomo
with me for a little while?
**[15:05] Fujinami**
What?
**[15:06] Fujinami**
Why Samomo?
**[15:10] Fujinami**
Can't you tell me?
**[15:14] Asebi**
Forgive me. I asked for too much.
**[15:17] Asebi**
Please forget it.
**[15:21] Fujinami**
Very well. If you'll find her useful.
**[15:25] Asebi**
Princess Fujinami! Thank you so much!
**[15:46] Yukiya**
Still no sign.
**[15:48] Yukiya**
The Tanabata ceremony is about to start.
**[15:51] Yukiya**
I guess Atsufusa couldn't pull it off.
**[15:55] Sumio**
We need to leave for
Cherry Blossom Palace soon.
**[15:57] Nazukihiko**
Do we? Let's set out, then.
**[16:01] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya, mind the palace.
**[16:04] Yukiya**
Why?
**[16:05] Yukiya**
I know how to use a sword, too.
**[16:08] Nazukihiko**
I can defend myself.
**[16:11] Nazukihiko**
And my enemies won't choose
today to make their move.
**[16:15] Yukiya**
But—
**[16:16] Nazukihiko**
A down payment.
**[16:28] Yukiya**
That guy seriously never listens.
**[16:32] Yukiya**
Well, I guess this is the
most peace I could hope for.
**[16:59] Yukiya**
Please, Kuro!
Our master needs this right now!
**[17:11] Sumio**
Hey, it's Yukiya!
**[17:14] Yukiya**
Message from the Southern House!
**[17:16] Yukiya**
They want you to attend!
**[17:17] Nazukihiko**
Well done.
**[17:19] Nazukihiko**
Kuro!
**[17:31] Yukiya**
Damn that stupid raven.
**[17:37] Yukiya**
Aw, man. And the job I get stuck with is...
**[17:42] Yukiya**
Please forgive me!
**[17:44] Takimoto**
You again?
**[17:45] Yukiya**
His Highness has urgent business and
cannot come to Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[17:51] Yukiya**
He sends his sincere apologies.
**[17:54] Karamushi**
Tanabata without the Crown Prince?
This is unheard of.
**[17:59] Cha-no-Hana**
Do not insult us! Did you imagine
a mere apology would suffice?
**[18:03] Ukogi**
With all due respect,
is His Highness not neglecting our ladies?
**[18:07] Yukiya**
No, he would not dream of it.
**[18:09] Kikuno**
Then, why does he not send
so much as a letter?
**[18:14] Yukiya**
What?
**[18:15] Kikuno**
Letters.
**[18:16] Kikuno**
Both my lady and the others await
some message from His Highness.
**[18:22] Yukiya**
That's strange.
**[18:24] Yukiya**
I know His Highness has sent
apologies to every lady here.
**[18:29] Cha-no-Hana**
In writing?
**[18:30] Yukiya**
Yes. To express his regrets that
he hasn't been able to visit them.
**[18:35] Yukiya**
Have they really not arrived?
**[18:38] Kikuno**
Then, the letters vanished?
**[18:41] Masuho**
What is the meaning of this?
**[18:44] Yukiya**
Um, may I take my leave now?
**[18:47] Cha-no-Hana**
Confound you, boy!
**[18:49] Cha-no-Hana**
We would not be in this dilemma
if you did your job properly!
**[18:53] Yukiya**
F-Forgive me!
**[19:01] Fujinami**
In any case, His Highness will
not be able to join us for Tanabata.
**[19:06] Fujinami**
Look into the disappearing letters.
**[19:08] Takimoto**
Yes, Highness.
***SIGN*** Southern Palace
**[19:19] Toru**
Still, what can His Highness be thinking?
**[19:23] Natsuka**
Is something the matter?
**[19:25] Toru**
He requested a meeting with me.
**[19:28] Toru**
I have no business with him,
so I made my excuses and refused.
**[19:32] Natsuka**
Oh?
**[19:33] Toru**
But he persisted, so I sent a messenger
earlier, inviting him to come today.
**[19:40] Natsuka**
How could he? He must be in
Cherry Blossom Palace by now.
**[19:44] Toru**
Yes.
**[19:45] Toru**
But at least I can say
I granted his request.
**[19:50] Toru**
I did the minimum that duty requires of me.
**[19:52] Natsuka**
I see. Cleverly managed.
**[19:56] Natsuka**
But what would you have done if,
by chance, he ran into me here?
**[20:02] Toru**
Oh, I didn't plan that far ahead.
**[20:06] Toru**
Atsufusa gave me the idea.
**[20:08] Toru**
He's quite the strategist,
if I may praise my own nephew.
**[20:11] Toru**
Does he make himself useful
to you, Lord Natsuka?
**[20:14] Natsuka**
Yes, quite.
**[20:17] Voice**
Please wait!
***SIGN*** Autumn Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[20:32] Lady-in-waiting 2**
I hear His Highness
went to the Southern House.
**[20:35] Lady-in-waiting 3**
What a disgrace for the West.
What does this mean for marriage prospects?
**[20:39] Kikuno**
You over there.
**[20:45] Asebi**
I suppose you could see this spot
from outside, couldn't you?
***SIGN*** Spring Hall
**[20:48] Lady-in-waiting**
Yes, my lady.
**[20:49] Asebi**
Let me see. Do I just pass
this pole through the sleeves?
**[20:53] Lady-in-waiting**
No, my lady. You must...
**[20:55] Ukogi**
My lady.
**[20:56] Ukogi**
What are you doing?
**[20:57] Asebi**
What? I thought I would hang this kimono.
**[21:01] Asebi**
What are you doing, Ukogi?
**[21:03] Ukogi**
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki
presented this to you!
**[21:07] Ukogi**
How could you think of displaying
a gift from a lady of another house?
**[21:12] Asebi**
What? But...
***SIGN*** Summer Hall
**[21:25] Hamayu**
Shiratama?
**[21:27] Shiratama**
I am surprised you could tell.
**[21:29] Hamayu**
Who else has such elegant footsteps?
**[21:33] Hamayu**
So what do you want?
**[21:36] Shiratama**
Would you strike a deal with me?
**[21:39] Hamayu**
A deal?
**[21:40] Shiratama**
I would like you and the Southern House
to give up on marrying the Prince.
**[21:45] Shiratama**
In exchange, when I become consort,
**[21:49] Shiratama**
I promise the Northern House
will show the South considerable favor.
**[21:54] Hamayu**
Out of the question.
**[21:56] Hamayu**
Come back when you can promise
a formal alliance in writing.
**[22:01] Shiratama**
Then, what if I said
I would reveal your secret?
**[22:10] Shiratama**
I know all about your past *and*
what brings you to Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[22:22] Nazukihiko**
Pardon my late arrival.
**[22:24] Nazukihiko**
Thank you for your invitation, Lord Toru.
**[22:26] Toru**
You honor me. I never dreamed you would
actually grace us with your presence.
**[22:31] Toru**
I will have a place
prepared for you at once.
**[22:34] Natsuka**
Allow me to excuse myself.
**[22:36] Nazukihiko**
That will not be necessary.
**[22:38] Nazukihiko**
This is a perfect opportunity.
**[22:40] Nazukihiko**
I have been hoping to have
a heart-to-heart with you, too, brother.
**[22:45] Nazukihiko**
On matters we cannot discuss at court.
***SIGN*** Central Castle Town
**[24:30] Narrator**
*Shiratama makes her move.*
**[24:33] Narrator**
*Hamayu harbors secrets.*
**[24:36] Narrator**
*Fear rattles Asebi and Masuho-no-Susuki.*
**[24:40] Narrator**
* In the Prince's absence, discord resounds*
* all around Cherry Blossom Palace.*
**[24:46] Narrator**
*And tragedy ensues.*
***SIGN*** Falling
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "Falling."*
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E7 - Falling
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G0DUN2XXD/falling)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
***SIGN*** Summer Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[00:03] Shiratama**
Southern merchants, Western artisans,
Eastern musicians, and Northern warriors.
**[00:10] Shiratama**
We call the Four Houses equal,
**[00:12] Shiratama**
yet the North has always resigned
itself to fourth place.
**[00:17] Shiratama**
Warriors make for poor politicians.
**[00:20] Shiratama**
The other houses look down on us
as hardheaded boors and ruffians.
**[00:25] Shiratama**
In the long history of this rite,
we have never married into royalty.
**[00:29] Hamayu**
You really shouldn't put
yourself down like that.
**[00:33] Shiratama**
The Northern House dreams
of an imperial marriage.
**[00:35] Shiratama**
As long as we can attain that honor,
we need nothing else.
**[00:40] Shiratama**
So if the South were to retire
from the competition,
**[00:44] Shiratama**
we would cede every other advantage
to you as compensation.
**[00:48] Hamayu**
*If* you can get the Prince to marry you.
**[00:52] Shiratama**
Naturally.
**[00:53] Shiratama**
But I may request a little more aid
from the South to ensure that I do.
**[01:00] Shiratama**
In Cherry Blossom Palace,
each lady speaks for her house.
**[01:04] Shiratama**
Just this once, you will
need to take me at my word.
**[01:10] Shiratama**
So what will it be?
**[01:11] Shiratama**
Work with me and benefit your house?
**[01:14] Shiratama**
Or lose everything and leave the palace
when your secret is exposed?
**[01:25] Hamayu**
Hah. As if I have a choice.
**[01:28] Shiratama**
I am delighted you understand.
**[01:30] Hamayu**
What will you do about the other houses?
**[01:32] Shiratama**
The naive Westerners will be child's play.
**[01:37] Hamayu**
But the Eastern House is sly.
**[01:40] Hamayu**
Who knows what they're really thinking,
sending an innocent like Asebi.
**[01:45] Shiratama**
Oh, but why worry about that
when I can simply crush Asebi herself?
**[01:51] Shiratama**
Do not fret. I know I will succeed.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Southern Palace
**[03:37] Yukiya**
So this is the Southern House's palace?
**[03:44] Crowd**
Ugh. Why here?
**[03:46] Crowd**
I wasn't told of this.
**[03:49] Yukiya**
That must be it.
**[03:53] Yukiya**
Ow.
**[03:56] Rokon**
Well, look who it is. The Prince's aide.
**[03:59] Yukiya**
Sir Rokon.
**[04:06] Rokon**
They cleared out the guests.
You can't get in.
**[04:09] Yukiya**
Right. Thank you for telling me. Bye.
**[04:13] Yukiya**
D-Do you need something?
**[04:15] Rokon**
You seem familiar.
**[04:17] Rokon**
Was it you who spied on
our meeting in the Ravine?
**[04:23] Rokon**
Oh well.
**[04:24] Rokon**
Mind if I ask you a few questions?
**[04:51] Toru**
Something wrong?
**[04:52] Nazukihiko**
I just cannot see the resemblance.
**[04:55] Nazukihiko**
To Hamayu, I mean.
**[04:57] Nazukihiko**
Is the "first daughter of the South"
who entered the palace *your* daughter?
**[05:02] Toru**
I do not take your meaning.
**[05:04] Nazukihiko**
It is a simple question.
**[05:07] Toru**
As you guessed, I adopted Hamayu.
**[05:10] Toru**
I sent an orphan I raised
to take part in the Rite of Ascension.
**[05:15] Toru**
But I promise you, she truly is
a direct descendant of my house.
**[05:21] Nazukihiko**
Her pedigree does not concern me.
**[05:23] Nazukihiko**
But I believe you have a daughter of age.
**[05:27] Nazukihiko**
What was her name again?
**[05:29] Toru**
Nadeshiko.
**[05:30] Nazukihiko**
Yes, Nadeshiko.
**[05:32] Nazukihiko**
Surely *she* would have been
the natural choice to take part in the rite?
**[05:36] Nazukihiko**
Is there a reason she was not sent?
**[05:41] Toru**
I am afraid my daughter lacks charm.
**[05:44] Toru**
Hardly a fitting consort for—
**[05:45] Nazukihiko**
Spare me the excuses.
**[05:49] Nazukihiko**
Tell me why you do not want
to wed her to me.
**[05:52] Nazukihiko**
And was that your decision?
**[05:55] Nazukihiko**
Or was it... someone else's?
**[06:01] Natsuka**
Why not leave it at that?
**[06:04] Nazukihiko**
Brother.
**[06:05] Natsuka**
She would hardly be the
first girl adopted for the rite.
**[06:11] Natsuka**
No doubt Lord Toru acted to safeguard
the Southern House and its domain.
**[06:17] Nazukihiko**
Meaning he thinks that
I cannot defend either?
**[06:21] Toru**
No, I would never presume to—
**[06:23] Natsuka**
Your Highness should
learn a little humility.
**[06:26] Natsuka**
I pledged fealty to you because I believe
you will fulfill your duties as kin'u.
**[06:34] Natsuka**
Yet at times, your high-handed
manner grows intolerable.
**[06:38] Natsuka**
It will cost you the Four Houses' trust,
**[06:41] Natsuka**
which may, in turn, invite chaos to Yamauchi.
**[06:47] Natsuka**
If that should come to pass,
I will have no choice but to do my own duty.
**[06:54] Natsuka**
The Royal House has no greater calling
than maintaining the peace in Yamauchi.
**[07:04] Natsuka**
Forgive my impertinence.
**[07:07] Natsuka**
I merely followed Your Highness
in speaking frankly.
**[07:10] Nazukihiko**
Of course, Brother.
I welcome your honest opinion.
**[07:14] Natsuka**
You honor me.
**[07:17] Nazukihiko**
It is time I took my leave.
**[07:37] Atsufusa**
I beg your pardon for my foolish council.
**[07:41] Atsufusa**
I never dreamed the Prince
would actually attend.
**[07:43] Toru**
Neither did I. He scared me stiff.
**[07:47] Toru**
Lord Natsuka managed
to smooth things over.
**[07:50] Toru**
Still, for a fool,
he picks up on strange things.
**[07:54] Toru**
The attack in the pleasure quarter doesn't
seem to have left much of an impression.
**[07:58] Natsuka**
That concerns me as well.
**[08:01] Natsuka**
My brother never learns from his mistakes.
**[08:04] Natsuka**
Naturally, I support his accession.
**[08:08] Natsuka**
But unless he mends his ways,
**[08:12] Natsuka**
my backers may resort to further violence
without my knowledge.
**[08:24] Toru**
How fearsome.
**[08:26] Toru**
Do you plan to seize everything
without lifting a finger yourself?
**[08:30] Atsufusa**
With all due respect, Lord Natsuka
of all people would never—
**[08:34] Toru**
Merely a jest, Atsufusa.
Do not take it seriously.
**[08:37] Atsufusa**
Even in jest, some things should not—
**[08:39] Natsuka**
Atsufusa.
**[08:41] Toru**
Well, I suppose I did get carried away.
**[08:45] Toru**
I beg your pardon.
**[08:47] Natsuka**
There is no need.
**[08:53] Yukiya**
What do you want, anyway?
**[08:56] Rokon**
You've got a warrior's look. I like that.
**[09:00] Rokon**
A little dainty for my tastes, though.
Where in the North are you from?
**[09:04] Yukiya**
Taruhi.
**[09:05] Rokon**
Taruhi? Where the lord married
a daughter of the Northern House?
**[09:09] Yukiya**
I have a different mother
than my brothers.
**[09:11] Rokon**
I see.
**[09:13] Rokon**
So, Yukiya, how'd you like to work for me?
**[09:17] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[09:18] Rokon**
You've already caught
Lord Natsuka's eye, remember? Join us.
**[09:22] Yukiya**
I serve His Highness.
**[09:25] Rokon**
Hm? So you've put your faith in the Prince?
**[09:29] Yukiya**
I wouldn't go that far.
**[09:31] Rokon**
What else would you call it?
**[09:34] Rokon**
You could easily have died
by my hand in the Ravine.
**[09:38] Rokon**
Why do you still follow the master
who threw you into that mess?
**[09:43] Yukiya**
Anyway, I'm not going to
become anyone's lackey.
**[09:47] Yukiya**
I'm working as His Highness's
aide now, but only for a year.
**[09:51] Yukiya**
Then I go back to Taruhi.
**[09:53] Yukiya**
I don't care about the Prince or the Center.
**[09:58] Yukiya**
I want to keep my family
and my home safe. That's all I want.
**[10:03] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya.
**[10:05] Yukiya**
Y-Your Highness.
**[10:08] Rokon**
Is the secret council over?
I'd better get back, then.
**[10:14] Rokon**
Oh, and if you're looking
for Sumio, he flew away.
**[10:18] Rokon**
The moment he saw me, he took off
like his tail feathers were on fire.
**[10:25] Yukiya**
Your Highness, um...
**[10:29] Yukiya**
It was in the heat of the moment, and I, uh...
**[10:32] Sumio**
Is that bastard finally gone?
**[10:35] Sumio**
Sorry. Were you looking for me?
**[10:38] Nazukihiko**
Rokon said you had turned
tail and fled in fear of him.
**[10:42] Sumio**
What? Don't make me laugh!
I just want nothing to do with him.
**[10:46] Sumio**
Not only is he crazy, he's loud, he can't
take a hint, and he grins all the time.
**[11:13] Yukiya**
If we just flew home,
we'd be back in no time.
**[11:16] Sumio**
Sure, but we can't see in the dark.
**[11:21] Yukiya**
The ladies waiting for Your Highness
must be feeling so let down.
**[11:26] Nazukihiko**
Undoubtedly. I regret disappointing them.
**[11:29] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[11:30] Nazukihiko**
What is it?
**[11:30] Yukiya**
I just, uh, wasn't expecting that answer.
**[11:33] Nazukihiko**
I do not despise Cherry
Blossom Palace nor Tanabata.
**[11:39] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya, I do not avoid Cherry Blossom
Palace simply because I fear assassins.
**[11:46] Nazukihiko**
I stay away because I can easily picture
how my visits would affect the ladies.
**[11:53] Nazukihiko**
They all bear the weight of their houses'
expectations, though not all equally.
**[12:02] Nazukihiko**
If I meet the eyes of one,
it will give her hope.
**[12:05] Nazukihiko**
If I speak to one,
she will think herself chosen.
**[12:10] Nazukihiko**
And even those fortunate enough
to become my consort or concubine
**[12:14] Nazukihiko**
will spend the rest of their lives
fearing assassination.
**[12:20] Nazukihiko**
You could say I bring them only harm.
**[12:24] Nazukihiko**
But to become kin'u, I must take a consort.
**[12:29] Nazukihiko**
So I will sow as little misfortune
as I can. Isn't that the kindest way?
**[12:34] Yukiya**
Your Highness...
**[12:37] Yukiya**
I guess it can't be easy, having the ladies
resent you because they don't know.
**[12:44] Nazukihiko**
That doesn't matter.
**[12:50] Yukiya**
You leave yourself wide open.
**[12:55] Yukiya**
You worry about other people, but you
just keep taking risks, like you did today.
**[13:01] Yukiya**
Get serious about protecting yourself
or you'll die one of these days.
**[13:05] Nazukihiko**
I'll be fine. I *am* a kin'u.
**[13:08] Yukiya**
That doesn't prove anything!
**[13:11] Nazukihiko**
All right. I'll bear it in mind.
**[13:14] Nazukihiko**
But I don't think I am quite as
defenseless as you imagine I am.
**[13:18] Nazukihiko**
I am capable with a sword,
and I do have friends.
**[13:22] Yukiya**
Apart from Sumio and me?
**[13:24] Nazukihiko**
Yes.
**[13:25] Yukiya**
Allies you can trust?
**[13:27] Nazukihiko**
Of course. I trust them with my life.
**[13:29] Yukiya**
Who do you mean?
**[13:31] Sumio**
You want to know? It's our biggest secret.
**[13:34] Yukiya**
Uh...
**[13:37] Yukiya**
I think I'll pass.
**[13:38] Sumio**
Huh?
**[13:39] Yukiya**
I mean, I won't be able to leave
after a year if you tell me.
**[13:43] Yukiya**
And I'm going home to Taruhi
next spring, no matter what.
**[13:47] Yukiya**
So don't tell me. Not ever.
**[13:49] Sumio**
Fine. You win.
***SIGN*** Spring Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[13:57] Samomo**
I have returned.
**[14:00] Asebi**
Thank you for going, Samomo.
**[14:03] Asebi**
How did it go? Did you get an answer?
**[14:08] Asebi**
Thank you!
**[14:10] Asebi**
You must be tired. Take it easy today.
**[14:31] Asebi**
Lady Shiratama?
**[14:33] Shiratama**
Who wrote that letter?
**[14:34] Asebi**
What?
**[14:36] Shiratama**
Did the Prince send you that, by any chance?
**[14:39] Asebi**
No, this is—
**[14:41] Shiratama**
How shameless.
**[14:42] Shiratama**
I know you have been scheming
with that royal lady-in-waiting, Samomo.
**[14:47] Shiratama**
You must be our letter thief.
**[14:49] Asebi**
What? I am not, Lady Shiratama.
**[14:52] Shiratama**
Then, show that to me.
**[14:56] Asebi**
S-Stop!
**[14:59] Asebi**
I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to...
**[15:01] Shiratama**
That look.
**[15:04] Shiratama**
That "I've never had an impure thought" look
of yours disgusts me so much, I could retch!
**[15:18] Asebi**
*Someone...*
**[15:21] Asebi**
*Anyone...*
**[15:27] Masuho**
Calm yourself.
**[15:29] Masuho**
The pool is shallow here. Try to stand.
**[15:32] Asebi**
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki...
**[15:35] Masuho**
What do you think you are doing?
**[15:37] Shiratama**
Whatever do you mean?
**[15:39] Shiratama**
Lady Asebi merely tripped and fell.
**[15:42] Masuho**
Don't play innocent.
I shall report this to Princess Fujinami.
**[15:46] Shiratama**
Oh? Then, so will I.
**[15:49] Shiratama**
Her Highness should know that the Western
and Eastern Houses colluded to vilify me.
**[15:55] Masuho**
What are you talking about?
**[15:58] Masuho**
Do you think Her Highness
would believe such nonsense?
**[16:01] Masuho**
And the Royal House can
hardly dismiss us out of hand.
**[16:06] Shiratama**
Ignorance is bliss. Do you not realize
the political situation has changed?
**[16:11] Shiratama**
The North has soldiers
and the South has wealth.
**[16:14] Shiratama**
Now that they have joined forces, anyone
can see which side the Royal House will take.
**[16:21] Masuho**
The Northern and
Southern Houses? Impossible.
**[16:24] Shiratama**
The Southern House has already promised
to cede the Prince's hand to me.
**[16:29] Shiratama**
If you doubt me, ask Lady Hamayu.
**[16:33] Shiratama**
Though I suggest you behave yourselves,
unless you wish to endanger your own houses.
**[16:41] Masuho**
Don't be absurd.
**[16:43] Masuho**
His Highness would never
choose a coward like you.
**[16:47] Shiratama**
Then, I will simply ensure that
the rest of you have no place here.
**[16:53] Shiratama**
He will marry me
when he has no other choice.
**[16:56] Asebi**
How horrible!
**[16:59] Shiratama**
You are both here out of love for the Prince.
**[17:03] Shiratama**
But I am not.
**[17:05] Shiratama**
I could not care less how he feels.
**[17:10] Shiratama**
The North dreams of an imperial marriage.
**[17:13] Shiratama**
I am here to secure one,
and for no other reason.
**[17:23] Masuho**
Do you not feel lonely, living like that?
**[17:31] Shiratama**
No. I have discarded all such sentiments.
**[17:37] Shiratama**
Consider yourselves warned.
**[17:41] Shiratama**
If you should marry
the Prince in spite of me,
**[17:49] Shiratama**
I swear I will ruin you.
**[17:52] Shiratama**
Then I will thrust this
into my throat and die myself.
**[17:58] Shiratama**
Bear it in mind.
**[18:21] Kikuno**
My lady?
**[18:22] Kikuno**
What are you doing there?
**[18:24] Masuho**
Kikuno, you fool!
Why were you not here sooner?
**[18:26] Kikuno**
What?
***SIGN*** Autumn Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[18:34] Masuho**
Who could have imagined that
Shiratama would have such ideas?
**[18:38] Masuho**
I never so much as suspected her.
**[18:41] Masuho**
I believed that my sincere love
and devotion would reach the Prince.
**[18:46] Masuho**
That was how I saw the Rite of Ascension.
**[18:51] Masuho**
You wrote to your house's main residence?
**[18:53] Asebi**
Yes.
**[18:55] Asebi**
I had Samomo deliver my letter in person.
**[18:57] Masuho**
That breaks the rules.
**[18:59] Asebi**
I know.
**[19:01] Asebi**
But I just had to learn about my mother,
**[19:05] Asebi**
so I asked a manservant I know well
to tell me anything he could.
**[19:10] Masuho**
And did you learn about her?
**[19:14] Asebi**
Nothing yet.
**[19:18] Masuho**
I am told this story
comes from my late aunt,
**[19:23] Masuho**
but when the current
Kin'u chose his consort,
**[19:25] Masuho**
the Eastern House sent a master
of the koto to the palace.
**[19:30] Masuho**
I believe she went by Ukigumo.
**[19:33] Asebi**
Wait, "Drifting Cloud"?
**[19:35] Masuho**
She seemed pure,
untainted by worldly affairs.
**[19:40] Masuho**
She and the Kin'u soon fell in love.
**[19:43] Masuho**
His Majesty visited her the most,
and people said their marriage was assured.
**[19:49] Masuho**
However...
**[19:51] Masuho**
They fell prey to Lady Yuzemi's plots.
**[19:55] Asebi**
Who is that?
**[20:01] Kikuno**
Our current Empress.
**[20:03] Asebi**
What?
**[20:05] Kikuno**
As a result, Her Majesty
conceived Lord Natsuka.
**[20:09] Kikuno**
The rite ended before spring,
**[20:12] Kikuno**
and I hear Lady Ukigumo
returned to her home in tears.
**[20:16] Asebi**
Then, Lady Ukigumo was...
**[20:20] Masuho**
Your mother. She must be.
**[20:22] Masuho**
The koto bearing her name
might even have belonged to her.
**[20:26] Kikuno**
Her Majesty is the real "Lady Raven."
**[20:30] Kikuno**
How Ukogi must have resented her.
**[20:33] Asebi**
I had no idea.
**[20:35] Masuho**
Asebi, you must not tell Princess Fujinami
or anyone else what happened today.
**[20:39] Asebi**
Huh?
**[20:40] Masuho**
We will play into her hands
if we make a scene.
**[20:43] Masuho**
If the North and South
really have joined forces,
**[20:47] Masuho**
we will be crushed.
**[20:49] Masuho**
In fact, the damage may not stop there.
**[20:58] Masuho**
Are you all right now?
**[20:59] Asebi**
Yes. I feel refreshed somehow.
**[21:02] Asebi**
I must send Samomo back to
Princess Fujinami when I get back.
**[21:07] Asebi**
Thank you so much for everything.
**[21:11] Masuho**
Asebi, I have been so haughty all this time,
never thinking of your feelings.
**[21:17] Masuho**
I know I must have hurt you.
**[21:21] Masuho**
I am truly sorry.
**[21:23] Asebi**
You do not need to be,
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki.
**[21:58] Yukiya**
Excuse me. What's all this?
**[22:00] Nazukihiko**
I got my results from some pots,
so I thought I'd have the plants replaced.
**[22:06] Nazukihiko**
This is Kazumi the gardener.
***SIGN*** Gardener
Kazumi
**[22:08] Nazukihiko**
He serves the Royal House
but he sometimes brings me news.
**[22:12] Nazukihiko**
One of my few friends
on the outside, you might say.
**[22:15] Kazumi**
You must be Yukiya.
It is a pleasure to meet you.
**[22:18] Yukiya**
Nice to meet you, Kazumi.
**[22:22] Nazukihiko**
I don't see Sumio.
**[22:24] Yukiya**
The Yamauchi Guard
called him away out of the blue.
**[22:27] Nazukihiko**
A summons?
**[22:29] Nazukihiko**
I see.
**[22:30] Nazukihiko**
Kazumi, continue without me.
***SIGN*** Stage, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[24:30] Narrator**
* Samomo's death causes a commotion*
* in Cherry Blossom Palace.*
**[24:35] Narrator**
* Shiratama turns her ire*
* on the weeping Asebi once more.*
**[24:41] Narrator**
* On a moonless night,*
* a shadow steals into the world of women.*
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "The Intruder."*
***SIGN*** The Intruder
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E8 - The Intruder
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GEVUZ7QQD/the-intruder)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
***SIGN*** Clear Mirror Temple
**[00:17] Rokon**
Someone's been acting strange lately.
**[00:21] Rokon**
I mean Atsufusa.
You must have noticed, Lord Natsuka.
**[00:25] Rokon**
It seems he's been in
contact with the Prince,
**[00:28] Rokon**
but who knows what he's plotting?
**[00:31] Rokon**
Whatever it is, it's always
better to nip trouble in the bud.
**[00:42] Rokon**
Oh, and there has been a death
in Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[00:46] Natsuka**
A death?
**[00:47] Rokon**
An imperial lady-in-waiting, I hear.
**[00:55] Rokon**
I await your orders.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[02:35] Yukiya**
How did this happen?
**[02:37] Sumio**
She fell sometime between midnight
last night and dawn this morning.
**[02:42] Sumio**
But a few days ago, she said she had a family
emergency and spent two nights away.
**[02:48] Sumio**
When I asked her family, however,
it turned out she didn't go home.
**[02:54] Yukiya**
What does it mean?
**[02:56] Sumio**
It happens sometimes.
**[02:58] Sumio**
Cherry Blossom Palace imposes
strict limits on outside contact.
**[03:02] Sumio**
When a lady-in-waiting wants to go out,
visiting home makes the best excuse,
**[03:07] Sumio**
even if they really want to meet a man
or do something they can't admit to.
**[03:12] Yukiya**
What they can't admit to?
**[03:14] Nazukihiko**
We can rule out suicide.
**[03:16] Nazukihiko**
Look how her feathers have scattered.
**[03:18] Nazukihiko**
She must have tried
to shift shape mid-fall.
**[03:23] Nazukihiko**
At the very least, she wasn't ready to jump.
**[03:28] Yukiya**
This is giving me the creeps.
**[03:32] Yukiya**
What the heck is going on
in Cherry Blossom Palace?
***SIGN*** Wisteria Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[03:40] Sumio**
We have identified the deceased
as Samomo, an imperial lady-in-waiting.
**[03:46] Ukogi**
Are you quite certain? Couldn't it be
someone who merely looks like her?
**[03:51] Sumio**
We had her younger brother identify
the body. There can be no doubt.
**[03:58] Sumio**
By order of His Highness, the Yamauchi
Guard will continue to investigate.
**[04:04] Sumio**
We sincerely hope for your cooperation.
**[04:12] Asebi**
Wait!
**[04:14] Asebi**
Please wait!
**[04:16] Asebi**
Is what you just said true?
**[04:17] Ukogi**
My lady, restrain yourself!
**[04:18] Sumio**
And you are?
**[04:20] Ukogi**
You there! You stand before
the mistress of the Spring Hall!
**[04:25] Sumio**
I beg your pardon.
**[04:27] Asebi**
How did this happen?
**[04:29] Asebi**
Did she lose her footing
while running an errand?
**[04:34] Sumio**
We are currently investigating the cause.
**[04:37] Asebi**
I chatted with Samomo just the other day.
**[04:42] Asebi**
She was so cheerful and kind to everyone.
**[04:47] Asebi**
I can't believe it!
**[04:49] Asebi**
Why Samomo?
**[04:50] Sumio**
This incident grieves His Highness as well.
**[04:55] Sumio**
He has commanded us to uncover the truth.
**[04:59] Sumio**
I swear to report the truth
if I possibly can. Please be patient.
**[05:13] Fujinami**
Sister...
**[05:15] Fujinami**
I never dreamed this would happen.
**[05:21] Fujinami**
Samomo is dead.
**[05:23] Asebi**
Princess Fujinami!
Please get a hold of yourself!
**[05:25] Fujinami**
Why? Why?
**[05:29] Fujinami**
Oh, if only I'd known, I would never
have made her my lady-in-waiting!
**[05:34] Asebi**
Please don't say that. I know it would've
saddened Samomo to hear you.
**[05:40] Asebi**
Don't worry. The Yamauchi Guard
will bring the truth to light.
**[05:45] Fujinami**
There must be some explanation.
**[05:51] Cha-no-Hana**
Surely either Samomo jumped
or someone pushed her.
**[05:56] Kikuno**
I suppose we should assume
one or the other,
**[05:59] Kikuno**
given that His Highness's
personal guardsman is involved.
**[06:03] Shiratama**
If Samomo was murdered,
**[06:07] Shiratama**
then surely you, Lady Asebi,
are the most likely culprit.
**[06:12] Asebi**
What?
**[06:14] Shiratama**
I suppose you had Samomo
arrange your little tricks,
**[06:18] Shiratama**
then disposed of her
when she became inconvenient.
**[06:22] Asebi**
What? How could you say that?
**[06:24] Fujinami**
Shiratama, I will take any insult
aimed at Lady Asebi as an insult at myself!
**[06:30] Shiratama**
Taking in the Princess like that
only makes it more plausible.
**[06:34] Shiratama**
You really are just as vicious
as your mother was, I see.
**[06:39] Shiratama**
And after my Cha-no-Hana warned you
not to follow in her footsteps.
**[06:44] Masuho**
That's quite enough, Shiratama.
**[06:46] Masuho**
We came here to refine ourselves
through competition.
**[06:50] Masuho**
Taking advantage of others' misfortune
to torment Asebi is simply disgraceful.
**[06:54] Shiratama**
My, how odd.
**[06:56] Shiratama**
You've scorned Lady Asebi
as a country bumpkin all this time.
**[07:03] Shiratama**
When did you become such good friends?
**[07:05] Shiratama**
Well, I suppose the Western House
*is* famously fickle. Or...
**[07:11] Shiratama**
Did you two desperate ladies
bond over your shared misfortune?
**[07:15] Masuho**
Shiratama, you dare—
**[07:16] Hamayu**
Enough, Shiratama.
**[07:19] Hamayu**
Samomo is dead. You could
at least *pretend* to mourn.
**[07:26] Takimoto**
We of the Wisteria Guard are also
investigating what befell Samomo.
**[07:32] Takimoto**
Please refrain from communicating
directly with the Yamauchi Guard,
**[07:36] Takimoto**
even if you receive questions in writing.
**[07:39] Takimoto**
As before, we ask that you only correspond
with the outside world via Wisteria Hall.
**[08:11] Nazukihiko**
See to Kazumi while I'm out.
**[08:15] Yukiya**
Yes, sir.
**[08:16] Yukiya**
I assume I only need to guide him?
**[08:19] Yukiya**
To the spot Your Highness pushed me off
when we spied on the ladies, I mean.
**[08:24] Nazukihiko**
I wouldn't call that "spying."
It was reconnaissance.
**[08:28] Yukiya**
Yeah, yeah. Sure it was.
**[08:30] Yukiya**
But I still don't quite trust that guy.
**[08:36] Nazukihiko**
Kazumi is a good man.
**[08:39] Yukiya**
But what's he doing here? I swear I've seen
him working for the Northern House.
**[08:44] Nazukihiko**
Of course you have.
**[08:46] Nazukihiko**
He's a Northern spy, but he started out
gardening at their main house.
**[08:50] Yukiya**
Oh, no wonder.
**[08:52] Nazukihiko**
He did such good work
that I invited him to join us,
**[08:58] Nazukihiko**
on the condition that I grant his wish.
**[09:04] Yukiya**
Have a safe trip!
**[09:10] Yukiya**
He makes this stuff sound like no big deal.
**[09:12] Kazumi**
Sir Yukiya.
**[09:15] Kazumi**
I'm ready whenever you are.
**[09:17] Yukiya**
R-Right. Let's get going, then.
**[09:25] Kazumi**
This would be hard going
if we didn't know the way.
**[09:30] Yukiya**
Cherry Blossom Palace stands on
a steep cliff to keep out intruders.
**[09:35] Yukiya**
You could fly to it, but the Wisteria
Guard constantly patrols the skies.
**[09:39] Kazumi**
I see.
**[09:41] Kazumi**
Oh, keyflower orchids.
**[09:45] Kazumi**
They're blooming awfully late.
**[09:47] Yukiya**
Why do you want to see
Cherry Blossom Palace, Kazumi?
**[09:51] Yukiya**
Forgive me for prying.
**[09:53] Yukiya**
I thought maybe you knew someone there.
**[09:57] Kazumi**
I'm not sure I can claim I know her.
**[10:00] Yukiya**
I thought so. One of the
Northern ladies-in-waiting?
**[10:04] Yukiya**
Oh, don't tell me if you don't want to.
**[10:06] Kazumi**
Well, something like that.
**[10:10] Kazumi**
I'm hoping to see her, just for a moment.
**[10:12] Yukiya**
Oh, so *that's* what this is about.
**[10:15] Yukiya**
Still, the Prince sure plays dirty, using
your romantic troubles to win you over.
**[10:36] Kazumi**
Shiratama!
**[10:37] Yukiya**
Wait, Shiratama?
**[10:39] Yukiya**
Hold it, Kazumi!
**[10:50] Yukiya**
*You mean you came to see...*
***SIGN*** Winter Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[11:29] Elderly Lady-in-waiting**
Thank you so much for coming all this way.
**[11:31] Elderly Lady-in-waiting**
When you return to the Center, please tell
His Highness we appreciate his concern.
**[11:38] Nazukihiko**
Certainly. I promise to inform His Highness.
**[11:43] Maidservant 1**
Who's that handsome fellow?
**[11:45] Manservant 2**
A messenger from the Center.
Said he knows her ladyship.
**[11:49] Maidservant 2**
Her ladyship? From the main house?
**[11:51] Maidservant 2**
But she has those hideous
pockmarks all over her face.
**[11:53] Manservant 1**
How would he know
with a screen between them?
**[11:57] Manservant 1**
Hey, Kasuke!
**[11:59] Manservant 1**
I told you to carry this stuff!
**[12:00] Kasuke**
R-Right.
**[12:01] Manservant 1**
Get a move on!
***SIGN*** Southern Palace
**[12:06] Toru**
The Prince vanished?
**[12:08] Atsufusa**
I haven't seen him at all lately.
**[12:12] Toru**
He's probably holed up with
his favorite courtesan. Let him be.
**[12:18] Atsufusa**
Lord Toru, you mustn't
underestimate the Prince.
**[12:23] Atsufusa**
After Tanabata, there can be no doubt
he harbors grave suspicions of the South.
**[12:29] Atsufusa**
I worry.
**[12:33] Atsufusa**
Could he be guiding events indirectly
while he's out of our sight?
**[12:38] Toru**
You think a fool could
outwit the Southern House?
**[12:42] Atsufusa**
Perhaps.
**[12:46] Toru**
Don't presume.
**[12:47] Toru**
Atsufusa.
**[12:49] Toru**
By all rights, your lowly birth
shouldn't even entitle you to speak to me.
**[12:54] Atsufusa**
I was merely thinking
of the Southern House's—
**[12:56] Toru**
I'm telling you to know your place.
**[13:07] Nazukihiko**
You have my sincere gratitude
for granting me this audience.
**[13:14] Nazukihiko**
How have you fared since last we spoke?
**[13:17] Nazukihiko**
I'm told an illness scarred
your face early this year.
**[13:24] Nazukihiko**
Withdrawing from the Rite of Ascension
on such short notice must have pained you.
**[13:29] Nazukihiko**
His Highness still thinks
of you with concern.
**[13:43] Lady-in-waiting**
M-My lady.
**[13:45] Futaba**
Clear the room.
**[13:46] Lady-in-waiting**
But...
**[13:54] Futaba**
I never had any pockmarks.
**[13:57] Futaba**
I meant to take this secret to my grave,
**[14:01] Futaba**
but I wish His Highness to know the truth.
**[14:06] Futaba**
To know the real reason
I withdrew from the rite.
**[15:15] Masuho**
Kikuno?
**[15:19] Masuho**
Who's there?!
**[15:21] Kikuno**
I-Intruder!
**[15:23] Kikuno**
Intruder!
**[15:25] Shout**
Intruder!
**[15:36] Takimoto**
We will see to this at once.
**[15:38] Takimoto**
Your Highness need not trouble herself.
**[15:43] Fujinami**
Takimoto.
**[15:45] Lady-in-waiting**
What's going on?
**[15:46] Wisteria Guard**
Please turn back. It's not safe.
**[15:48] Wisteria Guards**
Where is he?
**[15:49] Wisteria Guards**
He's not here!
**[15:50] Wisteria Guards**
Find him before dawn breaks!
**[16:00] Wisteria Guards**
Dawn's here!
**[16:03] Wisteria Guards**
There he is! I found him!
**[16:05] Takimoto**
Don't let him escape! Use arrows!
**[16:07] Wisteria Guards**
Fire!
**[16:11] Wisteria Guards**
Don't let him escape!
**[16:12] Wisteria Guards**
Surround him!
**[16:12] Wisteria Guards**
Hold him down!
**[16:13] Wisteria Guard 3**
Take him alive!
**[16:15] Wisteria Guard 3**
Bring rope! Rope!
**[16:16] Takimoto**
Move! Stand aside!
**[16:20] Wisteria Guard 3**
Huh?
**[16:49] Hamayu**
Are you hurt, Shiratama?
**[16:57] Shiratama**
It can't be. Not that filthy corpse.
**[17:01] Shiratama**
Not that...
**[17:02] Hamayu**
Shiratama, are you...
**[17:05] Cha-no-Hana**
My lady!
**[17:06] Cha-no-Hana**
What happened to you?
**[17:09] Cha-no-Hana**
Takimoto! What is all this commotion?
**[17:13] Takimoto**
We had an intruder.
**[17:15] Cha-no-Hana**
An intruder?
**[17:18] Takimoto**
I had no choice but to take his head.
**[17:23] Takimoto**
Lady Shiratama had the misfortune
of witnessing the act.
**[17:27] Cha-no-Hana**
What?
**[17:28] Cha-no-Hana**
First, Samomo, and now, an intruder.
What has palace security come to?
**[17:33] Shiratama**
You coward.
**[17:34] Cha-no-Hana**
What?
**[17:37] Shiratama**
You never came. I knew you wouldn't.
**[17:41] Cha-no-Hana**
My lady?
**[17:43] Cha-no-Hana**
In any case, let us return to Winter Hall.
**[17:43] Lady-in-waiting**
What happened?
**[17:44] Lady-in-waiting**
Look at all that blood!
**[17:45] Shiratama**
I'm telling you, it's not true!
**[17:49] Shiratama**
What an awful smell.
**[17:50] Shiratama**
What shall I do?
His Highness will find me repulsive.
**[17:54] Shiratama**
Cha-no-Hana, bring incense.
I must scent my kimono.
**[17:56] Cha-no-Hana**
Lady Shiratama.
**[18:06] Ukogi**
Takimoto, would you kindly
explain what happened here?
**[18:11] Takimoto**
A scoundrel slipped into the Autumn Hall.
**[18:13] Lady-in-waiting**
Autumn Hall?
**[18:15] Takimoto**
Fortunately, he was soon discovered
and took to his wings.
**[18:19] Kikuno**
He didn't lay a finger
on Lady Masuho-no-Susuki.
**[18:22] Ukogi**
And who was this ruffian?
**[18:24] Takimoto**
A member of a robber band, I presume.
**[18:27] Takimoto**
As a matter of fact, items that
belong in Cherry Blossom Palace
**[18:31] Takimoto**
have been appearing on the market
for a little while now.
**[18:35] Takimoto**
We believe the late Samomo
had ties to this man.
**[18:41] Lady-in-waiting**
Samomo?
**[18:43] Takimoto**
I had planned to tell you all
this formally at a later date,
**[18:48] Takimoto**
but we discovered this on Samomo's body.
**[18:52] Takimoto**
This comb is clearly
far beyond her station.
**[18:56] Ukogi**
You mean to tell us
Samomo was engaged in theft?
**[18:59] Takimoto**
Indeed I do.
**[19:01] Takimoto**
The man received the goods
she took and sold them.
**[19:06] Takimoto**
But they fell out, and he killed her.
**[19:08] Takimoto**
So this time, he tried to
infiltrate the palace himself.
**[19:13] Takimoto**
That must be the truth
of this affair, more or less.
**[19:16] Lady-in-waiting 2**
I thought it would be something like that.
**[19:19] Lady-in-waiting 3**
They did say Samomo was a hill raven.
**[19:22] Lady-in-waiting 3**
Breeding always shows through in the end.
**[19:25] Asebi**
Samomo wasn't like that.
**[19:28] Asebi**
You should all know
what a nice girl she was.
**[19:32] Takimoto**
In that case, Lady Asebi, how do you
explain Samomo having this comb?
**[19:39] Asebi**
I don't...
**[19:43] Hamayu**
Try using your heads, dimwits.
**[19:48] Masuho**
Hamayu.
**[19:55] Asebi**
Lady Hamayu!
**[19:59] Asebi**
Lady Hamayu! Lady Hamayu!
**[20:02] Asebi**
Where are you going?
**[20:10] Cha-no-Hana**
What's all this racket?
**[20:12] Lady-in-waiting 4**
Cha-no-Hana, ma'am!
It's the lady of Summer Hall!
**[20:16] Cha-no-Hana**
Lady Hamayu. And Lady Asebi, too.
**[20:20] Cha-no-Hana**
To what do we owe the honor?
**[20:23] Hamayu**
We want to see your mistress. Show us in.
**[20:25] Cha-no-Hana**
I respectfully decline.
My lady is indisposed.
**[20:30] Hamayu**
I can guess what state she's in.
**[20:34] Cha-no-Hana**
You mustn't!
**[20:37] Hamayu**
Clear out the ladies-in-waiting.
Yourself included.
**[21:01] Hamayu**
Hey.
**[21:02] Hamayu**
I see it hit you hard, Shiratama.
**[21:06] Shiratama**
My, Lady Hamayu. When did you get here?
**[21:10] Shiratama**
Do forgive me for neglecting you.
**[21:13] Shiratama**
Did you wish to see me about something?
**[21:20] Hamayu**
You must be at your breaking point.
**[21:29] Hamayu**
Why not excuse yourself
and go home to the North?
**[21:33] Shiratama**
I can't do that.
**[21:36] Shiratama**
I *must* make an imperial marriage.
**[21:39] Shiratama**
Perhaps *you* should
take your leave instead.
**[21:46] Hamayu**
Yeah, maybe I should.
**[21:49] Hamayu**
But you'll snap if you keep on like this.
**[21:55] Shiratama**
I already have.
**[22:00] Hamayu**
You knew that intruder.
**[22:03] Hamayu**
And pretty well, too. Am I wrong?
**[22:11] Hamayu**
You should never have come here.
**[22:14] Hamayu**
You should never have
taken part in the rite.
**[22:18] Hamayu**
Not if you were in love with another man.
**[22:24] Shiratama**
You say such amusing things.
Me? Carrying on an affair?
**[22:38] Shiratama**
I hate to disappoint you.
**[22:39] Shiratama**
There was nothing between
Kazumi and me! Nothing!
**[22:43] Shiratama**
How could you think I'd ever be so foolish?
**[22:46] Shiratama**
I was born solely to marry a prince!
**[22:51] Shiratama**
My heart doesn't belong to me!
**[24:31] Narrator**
* Sweet yet cruel memories*
* wear away Shiratama's mind.*
**[24:37] Narrator**
* A lowly raven has entered the palace*
* in the guise of a dazzling lady.*
**[24:43] Narrator**
* A false noblewoman*
* starts telling the truth.*
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "Lady Raven."*
***SIGN*** Lady
***SIGN*** Raven
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E9 - Lady Raven
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G7PU47DD7/lady-raven)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[01:59] Hamayu**
Shiratama.
**[02:01] Hamayu**
You should never have come here.
**[02:07] Hamayu**
Not if you were in love with another man.
***SIGN*** 10 Years Ago
Mansion of the Northern House
**[02:36] Shiratama**
How do you do, Grandfather, Grandmother?
**[02:40] Oryo**
Thank you for coming such a long way.
**[02:43] Genya**
What a sweet child.
And clever, too, Mutsu-no-Hana.
**[02:48] Mutsu-no-Hana**
You're too kind.
***SIGN*** Shiratama's mother
Mutsu-no-Hana
**[02:52] Genya**
Shiratama, this will be
your home from now on.
**[02:56] Genya**
You'll be a daughter to Oryo and myself.
**[03:07] Oryo**
Study hard now.
**[03:10] Oryo**
As third daughter of the North,
**[03:13] Oryo**
you'll ascend to the palace
and marry the kin'u.
**[03:16] Genya**
Now, now. Shiratama's only four.
**[03:22] Shiratama**
Father. Mother. I'll do my very best.
**[03:28] Genya**
Oh! Well said! Well said!
**[03:58] Shiratama**
You must be the one who leaves me
flowers every morning.
**[04:12] Shiratama**
Would you tell me the name?
**[04:16] Kazumi**
K-Kazumi.
**[04:20] Shiratama**
Kazumi. It has a nice, sweet fragrance.
**[04:22] Kazumi**
Oh, uh... The flowers
are called wintersweet.
**[04:27] Kazumi**
I'm sorry it's only a small cutting.
**[04:29] Shiratama**
No, this is enough.
**[04:33] Shiratama**
So you're Kazumi.
**[04:35] Shiratama**
It's nice to meet you.
**[04:40] Kazumi**
I happened to find it
while I was out picking herbs.
**[04:44] Kazumi**
I stumbled into a clearing
in a deep mountain valley
**[04:48] Kazumi**
full of blooming flowers that birds and
the wind and such had carried there.
**[04:55] Kazumi**
The morning light turns
the whole field a brilliant gold.
**[05:00] Kazumi**
Words don't do it justice.
**[05:11] Shiratama**
I'd like to see your garden.
**[05:15] Shiratama**
But I can't. I could never go that far away.
**[05:19] Kazumi**
I'll bring it to you someday. I promise.
**[05:27] Cha-no-Hana**
In Cherry Blossom Palace,
you must always be mindful
**[05:31] Cha-no-Hana**
to comport yourself
like a true Northern lady.
**[05:34] Cha-no-Hana**
Ascending to the palace means...
**[05:38] Cha-no-Hana**
You must not meet with gardeners.
**[05:43] Cha-no-Hana**
The moment you were chosen for the rite,
you became the Prince's woman.
**[05:48] Shiratama**
I know that. But Kazumi is—
**[05:50] Cha-no-Hana**
The Northern House dreams
of an imperial marriage.
**[05:53] Cha-no-Hana**
You no longer belong to yourself alone.
**[06:17] Kazumi**
Shiratama. Run away with me.
**[06:23] Kazumi**
We won't have much,
but I'll make you happy. I promise.
**[06:32] Shiratama**
Thank you.
**[06:34] Shiratama**
But fleeing with you
could never make me happy.
**[06:41] Kazumi**
I knew you'd say that.
**[06:44] Kazumi**
Even so, my feelings won't change.
**[06:48] Kazumi**
I'd give my life for your smile.
**[06:52] Kazumi**
No matter what happens.
**[07:09] Cha-no-Hana**
My lady. A letter from
an agent in imperial service.
**[07:17] Cha-no-Hana**
Every house has skeletons in their closets.
Just look at the South.
***SIGN*** Kazumi
**[07:26] Shiratama**
Kazumi?
**[07:34] Hamayu**
A deal?
**[07:36] Shiratama**
I want you and the Southern House
to give up on marrying the Prince.
**[07:39] Shiratama**
Or lose everything and leave the palace
when your secret is exposed.
**[07:49] Shiratama**
If you should marry
the Prince in spite of me,
**[07:52] Shiratama**
I swear I will ruin you.
**[08:25] Kazumi**
Did my letters prove useful to you?
**[08:30] Shiratama**
Kazumi? What are you doing here?
**[08:37] Kazumi**
Shiratama.
**[08:38] Shiratama**
Don't come near me!
**[08:39] Shiratama**
I've done so many awful things.
**[08:43] Shiratama**
Things I can't even tell you.
**[08:46] Shiratama**
The...
**[08:49] Shiratama**
The Shiratama you loved is gone!
**[08:56] Kazumi**
My feelings won't change.
**[08:59] Kazumi**
You still mean everything to me.
**[09:07] Shiratama**
I'm the Prince's woman.
**[09:10] Kazumi**
Come to the stable by the stage
at the next new moon. I'll be waiting.
**[09:25] Shiratama**
I won't go.
**[09:28] Kazumi**
I'll wait as long as it takes.
**[09:31] Kazumi**
Until you come.
**[09:49] Shiratama**
Yes, of course...
**[09:51] Shiratama**
That wasn't Kazumi.
**[09:54] Shiratama**
Kazumi always watches over me.
**[09:59] Shiratama**
He said his feelings would never change.
**[10:02] Shiratama**
Even now, he must still be...
**[10:07] Hamayu**
Shiratama...
**[10:09] Shiratama**
Don't touch me!
**[10:21] Shiratama**
I'll become consort.
**[10:25] Shiratama**
You gave me your word.
**[10:28] Shiratama**
You'll withdraw and make way for me.
**[10:33] Shiratama**
Now that the North and the South stand united,
neither the East nor the West can threaten us.
**[10:39] Shiratama**
Isn't that right, Lady Hamayu?
**[10:44] Hamayu**
Shiratama, the Southern House won't budge.
**[10:48] Hamayu**
I didn't promise a thing.
**[10:51] Hamayu**
I haven't told the South anything, either.
**[10:55] Asebi**
Then, when she said the North
and the South had joined forces...
**[10:59] Hamayu**
I don't know what you heard,
**[11:02] Hamayu**
but the South would never content
itself with another house's scraps.
**[11:09] Shiratama**
You'd betray me, Hamayu?
**[11:13] Hamayu**
Anyone who gets fooled here
only has herself to blame.
**[11:16] Hamayu**
You did plenty of bluffing yourself.
**[11:18] Hamayu**
You have no right to blame me.
**[11:37] Toru**
Do you require an opponent, Sister?
**[11:42] Empress**
Toru.
**[11:50] Empress**
You must have business
of your own to see to.
**[11:53] Toru**
I came at your call.
**[11:59] Toru**
What's this about an uproar
in Cherry Blossom Palace?
**[12:02] Empress**
An intruder, I hear.
**[12:04] Toru**
Oh?
**[12:05] Empress**
Before that, a lady-in-waiting
fell to her death.
**[12:08] Empress**
What are those fools in the
Wisteria Guard playing at?
**[12:13] Empress**
The Prince shows no inclination to visit.
**[12:17] Empress**
The stage is set,
yet Lady Raven still awaits her cue.
**[12:32] Shiratama**
You guessed wrong on one count.
**[12:35] Shiratama**
I told you I knew your secret.
**[12:39] Shiratama**
That was no bluff.
**[12:43] Shiratama**
This woman is no court raven.
**[12:46] Shiratama**
She's a hill raven.
**[12:48] Shiratama**
Maybe even a horse.
**[12:52] Masuho**
Impossible. Hill ravens and horses are
forbidden from taking part in the rite.
**[12:56] Shiratama**
But what if she came from highborn stock?
**[13:00] Shiratama**
In the upheaval ten years ago, a nobleman
and his wife committed a grave crime,
**[13:07] Shiratama**
and received a sentence of decapitation.
**[13:11] Shiratama**
And that couple had a daughter.
**[13:17] Shiratama**
Yes, this woman, Hamayu...
**[13:21] Shiratama**
is the child of criminals.
**[13:24] Asebi**
Lady Hamayu was born to criminals?
**[13:27] Masuho**
Shiratama, baseless slander won't—
**[13:29] Hamayu**
If you know that much,
I might as well come clean.
**[13:32] Hamayu**
I'll finish the story myself.
**[13:35] Hamayu**
But where should I start?
**[13:38] Hamayu**
I assume you've heard about
the Prince and Fujinami's mother?
**[13:43] Masuho**
Lady Izayoi. She was my aunt.
**[13:46] Hamayu**
Oh, so she was.
**[13:48] Hamayu**
Well, the one who killed Lady Izayoi
was my father, the then Lord of the South.
**[13:56] Masuho**
Pardon?
**[13:59] Hamayu**
My parents murdered the Prince
and Fujinami's mother.
**[14:06] Hamayu**
My uncle, who is now Lord Toru,
put a swift end to the affair.
**[14:13] Hamayu**
He seized them before the Royal House
could act and beheaded them the same day.
**[14:21] Hamayu**
As their daughter, I was stripped of
my rank and sentenced to disarticulation.
**[14:28] Asebi**
Disarticulation?
**[14:30] Hamayu**
Cutting off my third leg
so that I could never revert to human form,
**[14:34] Hamayu**
then working me as a horse till I die.
**[14:39] Hamayu**
Though in the end, they let me off
because I was still a child.
**[14:44] Hamayu**
I lived as a hill raven after that,
practically crawling around in the dirt.
**[14:53] Empress**
The Rite of Ascension is like a play.
**[14:58] Empress**
Actors burdened with roles cross the box
called Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[15:05] Empress**
But none of them realize it.
**[15:08] Empress**
They do not know they are in a box,
nor that they are merely game pieces.
**[15:13] Empress**
How I pity those women.
**[15:17] Toru**
That may not hold true for all of them.
**[15:21] Toru**
You know how tenacious women can be.
**[15:25] Toru**
Some may only pretend to be pieces,
waiting for their chance to escape the box.
**[15:33] Hamayu**
My luck changed eight years ago.
**[15:36] Hamayu**
I met my uncle again.
He'd become head of our house.
**[15:41] Hamayu**
I more than half expected him
to kill me, but I made him an offer.
**[15:47] Hamayu**
If he would restore my status,
I'd do anything the Southern House wanted.
**[15:54] Hamayu**
And so, I reemerged as a lady of the South,
in exchange for accepting a crucial mission.
**[16:02] Asebi**
What mission?
**[16:06] Hamayu**
Assassinating the Prince.
**[16:09] Shiratama**
N-No.
**[16:12] Hamayu**
I guess you didn't discover that part.
**[16:14] Hamayu**
Well, the Prince probably did,
**[16:18] Hamayu**
considering how much
he avoids this place.
**[16:21] Hamayu**
My other role was as a substitute.
**[16:24] Hamayu**
If the Prince dies,
Lord Natsuka will return as crown prince.
**[16:29] Hamayu**
The South wanted to save
their prized daughter for that day.
**[16:35] Hamayu**
Between the Empress, Lord Natsuka,
and any child his bride bears him,
**[16:40] Hamayu**
the Southern House would dominate
three generations of kin'u.
**[16:45] Hamayu**
That's long enough to get
an iron grip on power.
**[16:49] Hamayu**
The Southern House will have
Yamauchi under their thumb.
**[16:53] Masuho**
That's the Southern House's true scheme?
**[17:00] Hamayu**
Whoops. I went and told you the whole plot.
**[17:03] Hamayu**
Still, I can't believe the Southern House.
**[17:06] Hamayu**
They want to make me kill the son
of the woman my parents murdered.
**[17:13] Masuho**
If you know all that, then why...
**[17:17] Hamayu**
There you have it, Shiratama.
**[17:20] Hamayu**
I acted all haughty and told you to leave,
but I'm the one who needs to go.
**[17:26] Hamayu**
Sorry.
**[17:31] Masuho**
Where will you go?
**[17:36] Hamayu**
I'll run, of course.
**[17:38] Hamayu**
I failed my mission and talked too much.
**[17:43] Hamayu**
If they catch me this time,
I'm dead for sure.
**[17:46] Hamayu**
Tell Takimoto to search my chambers later.
**[17:50] Hamayu**
She'll find what I swiped while you were
busy sipping tea and ogling flowers.
**[17:56] Shiratama**
You don't mean...
**[17:57] Hamayu**
Listen up, all of you.
**[17:59] Hamayu**
I'll tell you one last thing.
**[18:02] Hamayu**
Cherry Blossom Palace
isn't the whole world,
**[18:05] Hamayu**
and being with the man you love
isn't the only way a woman can be happy.
**[18:10] Hamayu**
Don't get that mixed up and
miss your own shot at happiness.
**[18:15] Hamayu**
See you around.
**[18:17] Masuho**
Hamayu!
**[18:31] Shoin**
I bring a report.
**[18:35] Empress**
Hmph. So a piece has escaped the box.
**[18:39] Empress**
Shoin.
**[18:40] Shoin**
Majesty.
**[18:41] Empress**
Summon that man.
**[18:43] Shoin**
At once.
**[18:58] Yukiya**
I finally caught up with you!
**[19:00] Yukiya**
You've got to hear this
right away, Young Master!
**[19:02] Nazukihiko**
Not "Young Master."
**[19:04] Nazukihiko**
I'm Sumimaru, a manservant from the Center.
**[19:07] Yukiya**
Oh, of course, Sumimaru, sir.
**[19:09] Yukiya**
But we've got bigger problems right now!
Cherry Blossom Palace is a mess!
**[19:13] Yukiya**
Intruders, escapees, and—
**[19:15] Nazukihiko**
Calm down and explain.
**[19:16] Yukiya**
Before that...
**[19:18] Yukiya**
Do you mind if I eat something?
**[19:22] Yukiya**
I guess nothing's ever simple
in Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[19:31] Yukiya**
Sumio went to ask
about all these incidents,
**[19:35] Yukiya**
but the intruder in the Autumn Hall
died in bird form, so he's hard to identify.
**[19:42] Yukiya**
And we still don't know who the comb
on the dead lady-in-waiting belonged to.
**[19:48] Yukiya**
Takimoto won't say much,
and neither will anyone else.
**[19:54] Yukiya**
Sumio was at his wit's end.
**[20:01] Yukiya**
Oh, but we did find out one thing.
**[20:03] Yukiya**
Lady Hamayu was plotting
to kill His Highness.
**[20:07] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
An assassin after my life
lurks in the Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[20:11] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
I received a warning letter
just before the rite began.
**[20:14] (Flashback) Yukiya**
Who sent it?
**[20:15] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Who knows?
**[20:16] Yukiya**
All His Highness's letters to the ladies
turned up in the Summer Hall.
**[20:21] Yukiya**
She must have hoped
to discover where he'd be.
**[20:28] Yukiya**
Well, anyway, that's one
less thing to worry about.
**[20:34] Yukiya**
That was delicious.
**[20:36] Nazukihiko**
So, are you convinced?
**[20:40] Yukiya**
Well...
**[20:42] Yukiya**
I'm honestly not sure.
**[20:45] Yukiya**
She confessed, but something
still doesn't sit right.
**[20:49] Yukiya**
Lady Hamayu did save me one time.
**[20:52] Yukiya**
And who sent that warning letter, anyway?
**[20:57] Yukiya**
Still, we're at our limit.
**[20:59] Yukiya**
We can't handle what's happening
in Cherry Blossom Palace on our own.
**[21:03] Nazukihiko**
There must be clues, however minor.
**[21:07] Nazukihiko**
Think.
**[21:08] Nazukihiko**
Dredge up all your memories
and put your wits to work.
**[21:15] Yukiya**
Something tells me Lady Hamayu
is still hiding something.
**[21:19] Yukiya**
And why would she confess?
**[21:21] Yukiya**
She must've known it would get her killed.
**[21:25] Yukiya**
Lady Hamayu's not the assassin!
**[21:27] Yukiya**
Maybe she's after something else.
**[21:30] Yukiya**
But then, why would she...
**[21:34] Nazukihiko**
You picked a decent starting point.
**[21:37] Nazukihiko**
Also, you shouldn't take
what Takimoto says at face value.
**[21:41] Nazukihiko**
She's an imperial lady-in-waiting.
**[21:43] Nazukihiko**
Her only concerns are protecting the Royal
House and ensuring the rite goes smoothly.
**[21:50] Nazukihiko**
She has tried to bar the
Yamauchi Guard at every point.
**[21:53] Nazukihiko**
She could easily have fabricated
her reports to suit her own ends.
**[21:59] Yukiya**
Ugh! Cherry Blossom Palace is just—
**[22:04] Nazukihiko**
We're returning to the Center.
**[22:06] Yukiya**
Did something click for you?
**[22:09] Nazukihiko**
I'm going to find out.
**[22:15] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya!
**[22:20] Nazukihiko**
I'll need you to work even harder
than before. We're going to be busy.
**[22:29] Yukiya**
Yes, sir!
**[22:43] Hill Raven Child**
That's the place.
**[22:57] Sumio**
It's still breathing.
**[24:30] Narrator**
* Hamayu revealed herself and vanished,*
* but the schemes have not stopped.*
**[24:38] Narrator**
* On a stormy night, danger befalls*
* the prince in a house redolent of blood.*
**[24:46] Narrator**
*How will Yukiya respond?*
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "Assassinating the Prince."*
***SIGN*** Assassinating
***SIGN*** the Prince
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E10 - Assassinating the Prince
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G9DUE02EZ/assassinating-the-prince)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
***SIGN*** Autumn Hall, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[00:06] Lady-in-waiting 1**
I hear Lady Hamayu was
stripped of her rank and banished.
**[00:10] Lady-in-waiting 2**
Who can say if she's still among the living?
**[00:13] Lady-in-waiting 3**
Her parents were villains.
**[00:15] Lady-in-waiting 3**
I'm certain she had a hand
in the Samomo affair.
**[00:24] Masuho**
Stop backbiting when
you can only speculate.
**[00:27] Masuho**
Hamayu's parents are no reflection on her.
**[00:34] Masuho**
I believe in Hamayu.
**[00:56] Ukogi**
It feels as though the fire has gone out
of Cherry Blossom Palace lately.
**[01:00] Ukogi**
Although perhaps we should
celebrate having one less contender.
**[01:07] Asebi**
And Princess Fujinami
hardly shows herself.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Clear Mirror Temple
**[03:11] Natsuka**
You wish me to dismiss Rokon?
**[03:13] Atsufusa**
Yes, my lord.
**[03:15] Natsuka**
Why? He seems the ideal bodyguard.
**[03:18] Atsufusa**
That man cares nothing for
your goal of peace in Yamauchi.
**[03:24] Atsufusa**
Setting you up as kin'u and
basking in glory as your champion
**[03:29] Atsufusa**
is the only thing on his mind.
**[03:31] Atsufusa**
All I do, I do for you, my lord.
**[03:34] Atsufusa**
Please consider my advice!
**[03:36] Atsufusa**
Have faith in me and heed my words alone!
**[04:23] Atsufusa**
Rokon.
**[04:25] Rokon**
Why are you so surprised?
**[04:27] Rokon**
You must know why I'm here.
**[04:30] Rokon**
If you have any excuses, I'll listen.
**[04:32] Atsufusa**
I... I've done nothing wrong!
**[04:35] Atsufusa**
Only I truly care for Lord Natsuka!
**[04:38] Rokon**
Is that all you have to say?
**[05:23] Nazukihiko**
Atsufusa's been stabbed?
**[05:25] Sumio**
He was found collapsed
in the red-light district, I'm told.
**[05:28] Yukiya**
And how is he?
**[05:30] Sumio**
Alive. At least for now.
**[05:33] Sumio**
They say he's asking to see you.
**[05:35] Nazukihiko**
Me?
**[05:36] Sumio**
He's being treated at the Watchful Moon.
**[05:39] Sumio**
He claims to have news
for Your Highness's ears only.
**[05:42] Yukiya**
In person?
**[05:44] Sumio**
In truth, I don't like it. You were attacked
in the red-light district once before.
**[05:49] Sumio**
It wouldn't surprise me
if someone else had the same idea.
**[05:53] Sumio**
I am curious about Atsufusa, but...
**[06:00] Sumio**
Were you even listening to me?
**[06:02] Yukiya**
Allow me to accompany you.
***SIGN*** The Watchful Moon
**[06:10] Brothel Owner**
Someone sliced from his shoulder
clean to his opposite side.
**[06:15] Brothel Owner**
I have cleared the premises.
**[06:18] Brothel Owner**
I assure you my staff's lips are sealed.
**[06:27] Nazukihiko**
Wait here, Yukiya.
**[06:29] Yukiya**
Yes, sir.
**[06:34] Sumio**
Hold this.
**[06:53] Sumio**
He's lost a lot of blood.
**[06:56] Atsufusa**
Your Highness?
**[06:58] Nazukihiko**
You seem badly injured.
**[07:00] Atsufusa**
I suppose this is it for me.
**[07:04] Atsufusa**
Lord Natsuka will no longer lend me his ear.
**[07:11] Atsufusa**
No, it is worse. He shuns me.
**[07:16] Atsufusa**
Your Highness, please heed my request.
**[07:19] Nazukihiko**
Speak.
**[07:21] Atsufusa**
Would you keep Lord Natsuka
safe after I am gone?
**[07:27] Atsufusa**
If you will agree to that,
**[07:31] Atsufusa**
I will tell you the name... of your true foe.
**[07:44] Nazukihiko**
My "true foe"?
**[07:45] Atsufusa**
I have proof. Your Highness could
take them all in one fell swoop.
**[07:51] Nazukihiko**
Have no fear. I will aid my brother
whether you ask me to or not.
**[07:55] Atsufusa**
Oh, thank you.
**[08:00] Atsufusa**
The foe who threatens Your Highness is...
**[08:06] Nazukihiko**
Atsufusa?
**[08:18] Nazukihiko**
Sumio!
**[08:20] Nazukihiko**
This scent...
**[08:22] Nazukihiko**
Karon incense?
**[08:38] Atsufusa**
So it finally took effect.
**[08:41] Atsufusa**
You must have some resistance.
**[08:48] Atsufusa**
Tch. Damn that Rokon.
**[08:51] Yamauchi Guard 1**
Lord Atsufusa.
**[08:53] Yamauchi Guard 1**
Our preparations are complete.
**[08:55] Atsufusa**
Good. Begin at once.
**[08:57] Yamauchi Guard 1; 2**
Yes, sir.
**[08:59] Atsufusa**
Handle him with care.
**[09:01] Atsufusa**
Remember, the Prince is about to
pass away in an "unfortunate accident."
**[09:06] Yamauchi Guard 1**
Understood.
**[09:11] Atsufusa**
Wait.
**[09:12] Atsufusa**
What of the child?
**[09:15] Yamauchi Guard 1**
What child?
**[09:16] Atsufusa**
His aide should be here.
**[09:18] Atsufusa**
Where is the child?
**[09:20] Atsufusa**
He can't have gone far!
**[09:23] Atsufusa**
Find him!
**[09:26] Yamauchi Guard 1**
There he is!
**[09:27] Atsufusa**
Don't let him escape!
**[09:29] Atsufusa**
Drag him back here whatever it takes!
**[10:17] Yamauchi Guard 2**
That's as far as you go!
**[10:21] Yamauchi Guard 2**
Drop the sword and come here.
**[10:22] Yamauchi Guard 1**
We'll talk to Lord Atsufusa for you.
**[10:25] Yamauchi Guard 1**
We don't want to kill a kid. Got it?
**[10:39] Yamauchi Guard 2**
That little brat!
**[10:41] Yamauchi Guard 1**
Alert the others.
**[10:43] Yamauchi Guard 1**
We'll circle ahead and cut him off.
**[10:45] Yamauchi Guard 2**
Yes, sir!
**[10:51] Atsufusa**
What's taking them so long?
**[11:00] Yukiya**
*What now? What's my best move?*
**[11:03] Yukiya**
* Time's running out. I've got to act fast*
* or they'll kill the Prince and Sumio.*
**[11:08] Yukiya**
*I need help. I've got to find someone.*
**[11:12] (Flashback) Yukiya**
Oh, right. So they're secret escape routes
for court ravens who sneak out at night.
**[11:19] Yukiya**
*First, I'll find a way out.*
**[11:21] Yukiya**
* This tunnel connects to temples and court*
* ravens' mansions. I'll ask for help there.*
**[11:34] Yukiya**
*But what if whoever I find backs Natsuka?*
**[11:38] Yukiya**
* Does the Prince even have*
* any allies apart from us?*
**[11:43] (Flashback) Yukiya**
Allies you can trust?
**[11:45] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Of course. I trust them with my life.
**[11:48] (Flashback) Yukiya**
Who do you mean?
**[11:49] (Flashback) Sumio**
You want to know? It's our biggest secret.
**[11:54] Yukiya**
* Who is it? Who would*
* the Prince trust with his life?*
**[11:58] Yukiya**
*Damn. If only I'd asked him back then.*
**[12:07] Yukiya**
Ow.
**[12:21] Yukiya**
* I can't figure it out.*
* Who's on our side and who isn't?*
**[12:26] Yukiya**
*Who should I put my trust in?*
**[12:29] Yukiya**
*I'm out of options.*
**[12:32] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Think.
**[12:34] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Dredge up all your memories
and put your wits to work.
**[12:47] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[13:09] Yukiya**
It's all or nothing now.
**[13:17] Atsufusa**
You lost him?
**[13:19] Yamauchi Guard 1**
Our humble apologies. We couldn't
call for reinforcements in this storm.
**[13:23] Yamauchi Guard 1**
Tomorrow, I promise—
**[13:24] Atsufusa**
If he escapes today,
we will never have another chance!
**[13:27] Yamauchi Guard 1**
Y-Yes, sir.
**[13:30] Atsufusa**
Well, no matter. I'll make mincemeat
of the child when I find him.
**[13:36] Atsufusa**
Do it!
**[13:46] Atsufusa**
What? He can move already?
**[13:53] Yamauchi Guard 3**
Lord Atsufusa, what is all this?
**[13:55] Atsufusa**
Perfect timing.
**[13:57] Atsufusa**
Finish him off! I won't fuss
about injuries anymore!
**[14:01] Nazukihiko**
So you tricked me, Atsufusa.
**[14:04] Atsufusa**
Your Highness has only yourself to blame.
**[14:07] Atsufusa**
I had planned to send you to the
next world with your body intact.
**[14:12] Nazukihiko**
Wait, Atsufusa!
**[14:27] Nazukihiko**
Why would you do this?
**[14:30] Nazukihiko**
Do you honestly believe that killing the
true Kin'u will serve the good of Yamauchi?
**[15:23] Nazukihiko**
You...
**[15:40] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[15:44] Yukiya**
You're alive!
**[15:52] Sumio**
Hey.
**[15:53] Yukiya**
S-Sumio!
**[15:56] Nazukihiko**
Don't worry. We'll heal in time.
**[15:59] Natsuka**
Are you safe, Nazukihiko?
**[16:01] Nazukihiko**
Yes. Forgive me for worrying you...
**[16:04] Nazukihiko**
Brother.
**[16:07] Natsuka**
Thank goodness.
**[16:09] Natsuka**
Thank goodness!
**[16:15] Rokon**
Sure enough, he roped the Yamauchi Guard
into a plot to assassinate the Prince.
***SIGN*** Clear Mirror Temple
**[16:21] Natsuka**
So your intelligence proved correct.
**[16:23] Rokon**
Atsufusa won't talk,
but the small fry have loose tongues.
**[16:27] Rokon**
They planned to set a fire when
Your Highness visited the pleasure quarter
**[16:31] Rokon**
to make it look like
you'd suffocated on the smoke.
**[16:35] Rokon**
No trouble identifying the body, and people
would've said, "The fool did himself in."
**[16:41] Rokon**
They really thought it through.
**[16:43] Sumio**
Hey. We nearly died because you got sloppy.
**[16:48] Rokon**
True enough. I made Atsufusa desperate
and endangered Your Highness.
**[16:54] Rokon**
My sincere apologies.
**[16:56] Nazukihiko**
No, if you hadn't come
to the rescue when you did,
**[16:59] Nazukihiko**
I would be dead now.
**[17:13] Rokon**
If you want to thank anyone, thank your aide.
**[17:16] Rokon**
The look on his face when
he burst into Clear Mirror Temple...
**[17:19] (Flashback) Yukiya**
Please save the Prince!
**[17:25] Natsuka**
I bear the blame.
**[17:27] Natsuka**
Rokon had been warning me
about Atsufusa for some time.
**[17:30] Rokon**
Long story short,
I failed to win your trust.
**[17:35] Natsuka**
Hence why I bear the blame.
**[17:38] Yukiya**
Excuse me.
**[17:41] Yukiya**
Could you let me in on the secret already?
**[17:45] Nazukihiko**
No one understands me better
nor supports me more than my brother does.
**[17:52] Nazukihiko**
When I was helpless, he sent me out of
Yamauchi, beyond the reach of my enemies.
**[17:58] Nazukihiko**
On my return, he gathered
my enemies who claimed to back him,
**[18:03] Nazukihiko**
and he monitored and purges them for me.
**[18:06] Nazukihiko**
My brother has guarded me all this time.
**[18:10] Yukiya**
Hasn't Lord Natsuka ever thought
of becoming kin'u himself?
**[18:16] Natsuka**
I am of the Royal House.
Our line exists to defend the Golden Raven.
**[18:21] Natsuka**
But our dignity has fallen like a stone.
**[18:25] Natsuka**
The Empress favors only her birth family,
**[18:28] Natsuka**
and His Majesty cares
neither for her nor for government.
**[18:32] Natsuka**
If nothing is done, the balance of
the Four Houses will collapse into war.
**[18:37] Natsuka**
It is no coincidence that my brother
was born a true kin'u in these times.
**[18:44] Natsuka**
He has a purpose.
**[18:52] Rokon**
Still, I'm impressed you figured it out.
**[18:55] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[18:56] Rokon**
That the Prince and Lord Natsuka
had a secret alliance.
**[19:01] Sumio**
I wondered about that, too.
**[19:03] Sumio**
We never told you, so what gave it away?
**[19:06] Yukiya**
I never would have realized if things
hadn't gotten desperate, but...
**[19:12] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Is that so?
**[19:13] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Won't you go to Unbending Reed Monastery
if I send you home in under a year?
**[19:20] (Flashback) Yukiya**
Huh?
**[19:20] (Flashback) Yukiya**
How do you even know that?
You weren't at the Northern House's party!
**[19:25] Natsuka**
Why did that tip you off?
**[19:27] Natsuka**
Lord Kiei and I both attended that party.
**[19:32] Natsuka**
It hardly seems strange
that word of it would reach Nazukihiko.
**[19:36] Yukiya**
The North is a land of warriors.
**[19:39] Yukiya**
Kids there dream of learning
military arts at Unbending Reed Monastery.
**[19:44] Yukiya**
A local lord's son trying to worm
his way out of it is a huge disgrace.
**[19:50] Yukiya**
I doubt Lord Kiei would go shouting about it.
**[19:53] Yukiya**
And as your question just showed,
**[19:57] Yukiya**
it doesn't mean much to
anyone outside of the North.
**[20:02] Yukiya**
So if you share trifling details like that,
what does that make you to each other?
**[20:06] Yukiya**
Sparks fly when you meet at court,
**[20:09] Yukiya**
but I thought maybe you brothers
weren't really on such bad terms.
**[20:13] Sumio**
I see.
**[20:15] Yukiya**
Either way, I had no choice
but to gamble and risk it all in that moment.
**[20:24] Natsuka**
Splendid, Yukiya.
**[20:26] Natsuka**
I have never met a child with
such a mix of wits and courage.
**[20:30] Natsuka**
I hope you will support my brother
for a long time to come.
**[20:34] Yukiya**
No, I go back to Taruhi when my year is—
**[20:37] Sumio**
Why stop at a year?
**[20:40] Sumio**
Having you at his side
takes a weight off my mind, too.
**[20:44] Natsuka**
Stay in the Center from now on.
**[20:46] Natsuka**
When my brother becomes kin'u,
you will be his closest adviser.
**[20:50] Yukiya**
Huh? What are you talking about?
**[20:53] Yukiya**
Even if I joined the court,
doing odd jobs is the best I could hope for.
**[20:57] Yukiya**
How could I advise the Kin'u?
**[20:59] Natsuka**
What makes you think so?
**[21:01] Yukiya**
You have to ask?
**[21:03] Yukiya**
I'm just the second son
of a backcountry lord, so—
**[21:08] Natsuka**
Relax. We all know the truth.
**[21:11] Nazukihiko**
Brother!
**[21:12] Natsuka**
Your mother was Lord
Genya's second daughter.
**[21:15] Natsuka**
That makes the Lord of
the North your grandfather.
**[21:19] Natsuka**
Who could find fault
with such a lofty pedigree?
**[21:29] (Flashback) Brat 1**
What's your problem, nuisance?!
**[21:32] (Flashback) Yukima**
Stop!
**[21:34] (Flashback) Yukima**
Idiot! Do you want to make
more trouble for Mother?
**[21:37] (Flashback) Yukiya**
But, Brother, they—
**[21:39] (Flashback) Brats**
Everyone's saying it!
**[21:40] (Flashback) Brats**
The second son brings nothing but trouble!
We'd be better off without him!
**[21:44] (Flashback) Yukima**
Don't let them get to you, Yukiya.
**[21:57] Yukiya**
So you knew.
**[21:59] Natsuka**
What?
**[22:01] Rokon**
Of course. You think we don't check where
the Crown Prince's attendants come from?
**[22:09] Yukiya**
I get it now.
**[22:11] Yukiya**
You didn't want me.
**[22:16] Yukiya**
You wanted Northern House blood.
**[22:47] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya.
**[24:30] Narrator**
* Yukiya cannot escape the*
* Northern House's blood in his veins.*
**[24:36] Narrator**
* In his rage and sorrow,*
* Rokon brings him to see a man.*
**[24:43] Narrator**
*Whom does the excuse of loyalty serve?*
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "The Loyal Retainer."*
***SIGN*** The Loyal
***SIGN*** Retainer
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E11 - The Loyal Retainer
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GX9UQE4QM/the-loyal-retainer)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
***SIGN*** 12 years ago, Taruhi Village
**[00:02] Relative 1**
Think carefully, Yukimasa.
**[00:05] Relative 1**
Raise the boy in Taruhi, and he'll never
be more than a local lord's second son.
**[00:10] Relative 1**
He may even come to resent you for
not letting him go when you had the chance.
**[00:19] Relative 2**
You needn't worry yourself, either, Azusa.
**[00:22] Relative 2**
It's not as if you gave birth to the boy.
**[00:41] Yukimasa**
I leave Yukiya...
**[00:43] Yukimasa**
in your care.
**[00:47] Relative 1**
Have no fear. We'll raise him
into a fine man in the Center.
**[01:01] Yukiya**
Help, Mother!
**[01:02] Relative 2**
There now.
**[01:04] Yukiya**
Mother!
**[01:13] Relative 2**
What's come over you, Azusa?
**[01:14] Azusa**
Please leave. I will raise Yukiya.
**[01:17] Yukimasa**
A-Azusa.
**[01:19] Relative 1**
Don't be foolish. You'll cause
a succession dispute. Do you realize that?
**[01:30] Azusa**
Please leave.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[03:25] Rokon**
They both stormed out.
**[03:27] Rokon**
What got Yukiya so riled?
**[03:31] Natsuka**
I put my foot in it.
**[03:33] Natsuka**
I got too worked up.
**[03:35] Natsuka**
Nazukihiko *warned* me Yukiya's
parentage was a touchy subject.
**[03:41] Rokon**
Now that you mention it, he did say
his brothers have a different mother.
**[03:46] Natsuka**
A lady of the North birthed Yukiya,
**[03:49] Natsuka**
but his brothers' mother
is the woman who raised him,
**[03:53] Natsuka**
meaning Yukiya comes from
a superior line to the eldest son.
**[03:59] Rokon**
I see. That'd draw a fuss, all right.
**[04:02] Rokon**
Still, it's not exactly unheard of.
**[04:05] Sumio**
I hope they can patch things up,
but Nazukihiko is honest to a fault.
**[04:11] Rokon**
Couldn't you handle it?
**[04:13] Sumio**
Huh? I mean, you saw him.
**[04:16] Sumio**
Anyone can see I'm not the man for—
**[04:18] Rokon**
What's that? Scared of a little boy?
And here I was, hoping for some fun.
**[04:24] Sumio**
O-Of course I'm not scared of—
**[04:30] Sumio**
No interest, huh?
**[04:38] Yukiya**
Why didn't you tell me?
**[04:41] Yukiya**
You knew all along, didn't you?
That the Lord of the North is my grandfather.
**[04:47] Nazukihiko**
It seemed impolitic to mention it.
**[04:50] Yukiya**
"Impolitic"?
**[04:51] Nazukihiko**
When we first met, you introduced
yourself as "Yukiya of Taruhi."
**[04:57] Nazukihiko**
If you'd said, "Yukiya of the North,"
I would have responded differently.
**[05:02] Yukiya**
In other words, you were planning to use me?
**[05:06] Nazukihiko**
I won't deny it.
**[05:07] Yukiya**
What did you want me for?
**[05:11] Nazukihiko**
As a bridge to the Northern House.
**[05:13] Nazukihiko**
We needed allies. They were the safest
and most trustworthy of the Four Houses.
**[05:21] Yukiya**
When did you set your sights on me?
**[05:23] Nazukihiko**
A little over a year ago.
Around the time I returned to Yamauchi.
**[05:29] Yukiya**
A year?
**[05:34] Yukiya**
You mean Lord Natsuka already knew
about me before that banquet?
**[05:39] Yukiya**
Or maybe he came to size me up?
**[05:43] Nazukihiko**
Yes. Rumors *did* refer to you
as a blockhead, after all.
**[05:46] Nazukihiko**
My brother decided to see
whether you'd be of any use to us.
**[05:51] Nazukihiko**
And you surpassed his expectations,
so he had you summoned to the Center at—
**[05:56] Yukiya**
So you planned to recruit me all along,
even if nothing had happened with Kazumaro.
**[06:01] Nazukihiko**
That's right.
**[06:02] Yukiya**
You knew how much I'd hate
leaving Taruhi, didn't you?
**[06:08] Yukiya**
And yet, you still brought me here.
**[06:12] Yukiya**
For your own reasons. Just because
I'm the Lord of the North's grandson.
**[06:18] Nazukihiko**
That's right.
**[06:25] (Flashback) Yukiya**
Why, you—
**[06:28] (Flashback) Brat 1**
That does it!
**[06:35] (Flashback) Yukima**
Stop!
**[06:36] (Flashback) Yukima**
Idiot! Do you want to make
more trouble for Mother?
**[06:38] (Flashback) Yukiya**
But, Brother, they—
**[06:41] (Flashback) Brat 1**
What's your problem, nuisance?!
**[06:43] (Flashback) Brat 2**
Everyone's saying it!
**[06:45] (Flashback) Brat 2**
The second son brings nothing but trouble!
We'd be better off without him!
**[06:49] (Flashback) Yukima**
Don't let them get to you.
**[06:54] (Flashback) Yukimasa**
First, they wanted me to give Yukiya up,
**[06:56] (Flashback) Yukimasa**
and now, they want me
to make him my heir.
**[06:59] (Flashback) Azusa**
Your heir is Yukima, your eldest son!
Why would they force the issue?
**[07:08] (Flashback) Yukiya**
It's still not too late.
We'll put Yukiya up for adoption.
**[07:12] (Flashback) Azusa**
Dear...
**[07:13] (Flashback) Yukimasa**
He'll drag the whole clan into
a succession dispute someday.
**[07:17] (Flashback) Yukimasa**
In fact, it's already started.
**[07:23] (Flashback) Azusa**
Why do you let those people
push you around?
**[07:26] (Flashback) Azusa**
That boy isn't some seed of disaster.
**[07:30] (Flashback) Azusa**
So why don't you put your faith in Yukiya?
**[07:33] (Flashback) Yukimasa**
I know he's not. But I need to
protect more than just our family.
**[07:43] Yukiya**
Do you have any idea how much pain
people like you have caused my family?
**[07:55] (Flashback) Maidservant**
Young Master! Try to be careful!
**[07:59] (Flashback) Yukiya**
Sorry. My bad.
***SIGN*** Sincerity
***SIGN*** Yukima
***SIGN*** Ambition
***SIGN*** Yukichi
***SIGN*** Food
***SIGN*** Yukiya
**[08:11] (Flashback) Ichiryu**
He might be hoping to at least swipe
the lordship from his big brother.
**[08:16] (Flashback) Friend 1**
Yikes! We've got
a succession dispute coming.
**[08:21] (Flashback) Maidservant**
Blockhead second son.
**[08:22] (Flashback) Manservant**
Blockhead second son.
**[08:24] (Flashback) Brats**
Blockhead second son.
**[08:28] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Your effort doesn't interest me.
**[08:33] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
I care whether you make
yourself useful to me.
**[08:37] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
I am so inept, I do not blame
anyone for calling me a fool.
**[08:42] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
But you know, Yukiya...
**[08:44] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
I still consider myself
a good judge of people.
**[08:48] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
You will never betray me.
**[08:52] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Why? Because I doubt my enemies
can offer you anything you would value
**[08:59] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
more than the trust I place in you.
**[09:04] Yukiya**
What was all that, then?
**[09:07] Yukiya**
You made me sound special.
**[09:11] Yukiya**
But really, you would have taken anyone.
**[09:14] Yukiya**
You didn't need me,
just the Northern House's blood—
**[09:20] Rokon**
Pity yourself if you like,
**[09:24] Rokon**
but griping that people
won't play along is just lashing out.
**[09:28] Yukiya**
That's not what I'm—
**[09:30] Rokon**
Try to cool off.
**[09:33] Rokon**
I'm not here to cover for him,
but the Prince has a point.
**[09:39] Rokon**
Deny it or dislike it all you want,
**[09:43] Rokon**
but you *do* have the Northern
House's blood in your veins.
**[09:48] Yukiya**
I know that!
**[09:50] Yukiya**
But I don't have thick enough skin
to shrug off being used for it.
**[09:55] Yukiya**
You get handed all the dirty jobs,
and people hate you for it.
**[10:00] Yukiya**
Don't *you* get fed up with Lord Natsuka
taking advantage of you?
**[10:08] Rokon**
Me? I'm just glad I'm worth using.
**[10:15] Rokon**
You don't get it?
**[10:18] Rokon**
Fine.
**[10:19] Yukiya**
What's the big idea? Put me down!
**[10:20] Rokon**
Your Highness, there's someone
I want him to meet. Do you mind?
**[10:22] Yukiya**
Hey, stop it.
**[10:24] Rokon**
It won't take long.
**[10:25] Yukiya**
Aw, come on. Mind your own business.
**[10:27] Nazukihiko**
I leave him in your hands.
**[10:29] Yukiya**
Let go already! Let go!
**[10:53] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[11:09] Atsufusa**
Oh? I wondered who it was.
**[11:15] Atsufusa**
I'm in this state because of you.
**[11:19] Atsufusa**
I wanted Lord Natsuka to become kin'u,
no matter the cost, but—
**[11:25] Yukiya**
Are you hurt?
**[11:27] Atsufusa**
You needn't worry. It's nothing serious.
**[11:31] Atsufusa**
More importantly, I take it
you have business with me?
**[11:40] Yukiya**
You never meant to make
the Prince kin'u, did you?
**[11:46] Atsufusa**
I acted entirely on my own initiative.
**[11:50] Atsufusa**
Lord Natsuka played no part in it.
**[11:53] Yukiya**
You don't need to cover for him anymore.
**[11:56] Yukiya**
He's been secretly in league
with the Prince this whole time.
**[12:06] Yukiya**
You thought Lord Natsuka wanted
the throne, didn't you, Lord Atsufusa?
**[12:13] Yukiya**
Lord Natsuka used you.
**[12:16] Yukiya**
He used your loyalty to make it look
like he and the Prince were enemies.
**[12:22] Yukiya**
And in the end, you—
**[12:28] Yukiya**
Why are you laughing?
**[12:30] Yukiya**
You have every right to be angry.
The lord you put your faith in betrayed you!
**[12:34] Atsufusa**
As I already told you,
Lord Natsuka played no part in it.
**[12:40] Atsufusa**
You see, *I* decided to make him my lord.
**[12:48] Atsufusa**
Lord Natsuka is a modest soul.
**[12:51] Atsufusa**
No one would make a better kin'u,
yet he never presses his claim.
**[12:58] Atsufusa**
It frustrated me to no end.
**[13:02] Atsufusa**
So I opted to act on his behalf,
as his most loyal retainer.
**[13:17] Atsufusa**
I've known of my lord's collusion
with the Prince for some time.
**[13:24] Atsufusa**
How could I fail to notice when even
the likes of Rokon had caught on?
**[13:30] Atsufusa**
I failed, but Her Majesty
will surely kill the Prince one day.
**[13:36] Atsufusa**
And although Lord Natsuka
erred in defying his mother,
**[13:41] Atsufusa**
she will most graciously forgive him
and set him on the kin'u's throne.
**[13:47] Atsufusa**
Yatagarasu throughout Yamauchi will
welcome their dignified new sovereign.
**[13:53] Atsufusa**
I can practically hear them cheering.
**[13:56] Atsufusa**
At his side will stand Lady Nadeshiko,
an heir clutched to her bosom.
**[14:01] Atsufusa**
And...
**[14:02] Atsufusa**
Ah, I was never to leave
Lord Natsuka's side.
**[14:12] Atsufusa**
That dream shall never be now,
but he will remember me fondly one day.
**[14:19] Atsufusa**
He will remember that a truly loyal
retainer once gave his life for him.
**[14:26] Atsufusa**
A retainer named Atsufusa.
**[14:30] Yukiya**
You are no "loyal retainer."
**[14:32] Yukiya**
You're just dreaming.
Dreaming of what *you* want.
**[14:39] Yukiya**
Rokon! Rokon! Rokon!
**[14:41] Atsufusa**
The time will come when you understand.
**[14:45] Atsufusa**
You cannot avoid it if you live at court.
**[15:05] Nazukihiko**
Atsufusa was born into
a minor noble family.
**[15:08] Nazukihiko**
He desired advancement,
but soon hit a wall.
**[15:12] Nazukihiko**
His pedigree was dismissed at court,
**[15:15] Nazukihiko**
and he learned that no effort
he made would bear fruit.
**[15:21] Nazukihiko**
So he clung to a sliver of hope: the first
daughter of the South—his cousin—Nadeshiko.
**[15:30] Nazukihiko**
If she became the kin'u's consort,
he would gain a tie to the Royal House.
**[15:37] Nazukihiko**
But the Southern House
didn't send Nadeshiko to the rite,
**[15:40] Nazukihiko**
and her replacement, Hamayu,
fled without assassinating me.
**[15:46] Yukiya**
His only option was to kill you himself.
**[15:59] Nazukihiko**
The Empress probably put him up to it.
**[16:03] Nazukihiko**
She has a frighteningly
keen nose for such things.
**[16:08] Nazukihiko**
She imprinted an idealized tale
on Atsufusa's weakest points.
**[16:13] Nazukihiko**
Maybe on Kazumichi, who had me
waylaid in the pleasure district, as well.
**[16:18] Yukiya**
In the end, Atsufusa
would have taken anyone.
**[16:21] Yukiya**
He didn't need Lord Natsuka, just a lord
who would make his dream come true.
**[16:26] Nazukihiko**
Rokon tells me Atsufusa started out earnest
and concerned for his family. An ordinary youth.
**[16:36] Yukiya**
What's wrong with this court?
**[16:41] Nazukihiko**
Atsufusa's just the tip of the iceberg.
**[16:44] Nazukihiko**
Maintaining a grip on
your sanity is no easy feat here.
**[16:47] Nazukihiko**
That's where we are.
**[16:50] Nazukihiko**
I realize you detest places like this.
**[16:54] Nazukihiko**
And that I have yet to win your trust.
**[17:00] Nazukihiko**
Even so, Yukiya...
**[17:03] Nazukihiko**
I need you.
**[17:07] Nazukihiko**
I will soon be kin'u in name as well as fact.
**[17:12] Nazukihiko**
I want you to stay here and aid me.
**[17:15] Nazukihiko**
Of your own free will this time.
**[17:31] Yukiya**
Like I promised, I'll serve
as your aide until spring.
**[17:36] Yukiya**
So would you wait for an answer until then?
**[17:42] Nazukihiko**
Very well.
**[18:15] Haruhito**
A year has passed
since the Rite of Ascension.
**[18:18] Akira**
Time flies swift as an arrow.
**[18:21] Akira**
That day, we four held a party
for the Prince, and he stood us up.
**[18:29] Genya**
Today, the Southern House
does us the same discourtesy.
**[18:33] Haruhito**
Well, Lord Toru must
feel loath to show himself.
**[18:36] Haruhito**
After the fuss he caused, I mean.
**[18:39] Genya**
But the Royal House
hasn't done much better.
**[18:41] Genya**
How could they accept the South's
excuses and let them go unpunished?
**[18:46] Akira**
The Southern House's prosperity
is built on blood, money, and wiles.
**[18:53] Akira**
Brother blithely ensnares
brother in that family.
**[18:57] Akira**
We shouldn't act surprised now.
**[19:00] Haruhito**
Bold words. Perhaps you've
drunk a bit too much?
**[19:04] Akira**
Speaking of bold, black-hearted schemes
are the East's favorite trick.
**[19:09] Akira**
What do you hope to gain by
sending off that naive young lady?
**[19:14] Haruhito**
Goodness. I wouldn't dream of it.
**[19:18] Genya**
Lord Akira, you've said enough.
**[19:20] Akira**
Why, forgive me. I can't get
enough of this Northern sake.
**[19:24] Akira**
Well, you've made your share of moves
behind the scenes, too, Lord Genya,
**[19:28] Akira**
but the Western House
will triumph in the end.
**[19:33] Akira**
Consider this an early
celebration on my part.
**[19:36] Akira**
Try to enjoy yourselves
before your drinks turn bitter.
**[19:42] Genya**
What?
**[19:43] Haruhito**
Now, now.
***SIGN*** Blossom-Viewing Stage, Cherry Blossom Palace
**[20:26] Asebi**
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki.
**[20:29] Masuho**
Asebi.
**[20:36] Asebi**
It seems like ages since
we've had such a magnificent party.
**[20:40] Masuho**
True. I've felt positively
stifled since then.
**[21:09] Asebi**
What's that?
**[22:10] Masuho**
Your Highness, how I've waited for you.
**[22:14] Nazukihiko**
Yes.
**[22:29] Yukiya**
Ladies and ladies-in-waiting,
**[22:33] Yukiya**
you have all shown great patience!
**[22:35] Yukiya**
His Highness the Prince
will now choose his consort!
**[22:40] Asebi**
What?
**[24:30] Narrator**
*At the height of spring,*
**[24:33] Narrator**
* the Prince alights before the*
* three ladies of Cherry Blossom Palace.*
**[24:38] Narrator**
* Amid the cherry trees in full bloom,*
* he at last begins choosing his consort,*
**[24:46] Narrator**
*leaving truths shrouded in darkness.*
***SIGN*** To Choose
***SIGN*** a Consort
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "To Choose a Consort."*
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E12 - To Choose a Consort
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G4VUQ57Q7/to-choose-a-consort)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:02] Takimoto**
Please wait, Your Highness!
**[00:04] Takimoto**
What is the meaning of this?
**[00:06] Takimoto**
First, you decline to show yourself for
a year, and now, without notice, you...
**[00:11] Nazukihiko**
As promised, I have come
to choose my consort.
**[00:14] Nazukihiko**
I require no one's permission.
**[00:16] Takimoto**
This is so sudden.
We are not ready to receive you.
**[00:19] Nazukihiko**
I don't mind in the least.
**[00:20] Takimoto**
This will not do.
**[00:22] Takimoto**
I have a duty to protect their ladyships!
Even at Your Highness's command, I cannot—
**[00:27] Nazukihiko**
Takimoto.
**[00:28] Nazukihiko**
You need only attend to my sister.
**[00:31] Nazukihiko**
I will arrange matters today.
**[00:37] Yukiya**
You really made her mad.
**[00:39] Nazukihiko**
Let her fume.
**[00:41] Nazukihiko**
More importantly, Yukiya...
**[00:42] Yukiya**
Not to worry. Everything is as it should be.
**[00:46] Yukiya**
So would you fill me in already?
**[00:50] Yukiya**
What are you trying
to get out of this choice?
**[00:56] Nazukihiko**
I wonder.
**[00:58] Nazukihiko**
Heaven knows how this will go.
**[01:07] Cha-no-Hana**
He wishes to make his choice *here*,
without blinds or screens?
**[01:13] Ukogi**
My lady?
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[03:10] Yukiya**
Ladies of three houses and
Your Highness, Princess Fujinami,
**[03:14] Yukiya**
thank you for your patience.
**[03:28] Yukiya**
First, the third daughter
of the North, Lady Shiratama.
**[03:34] Nazukihiko**
Lady Shiratama.
You have been patient this past year.
**[03:38] Nazukihiko**
As the youngest lady in the rite,
you must have found it difficult.
**[03:42] Cha-no-Hana**
Why, of course she has.
**[03:49] Shiratama**
I have a duty to make
an imperial marriage.
**[03:53] Shiratama**
I must repay my obligation
to the parents who raised me,
**[03:57] Shiratama**
To my ladies-in-waiting,
and to the people of the North.
**[04:02] Shiratama**
My own feelings have
no place in the matter.
**[04:09] Nazukihiko**
I see. How admirable.
**[04:12] Nazukihiko**
But what will you do if I do not marry you?
**[04:15] Nazukihiko**
How will you repay your obligations then?
**[04:24] Nazukihiko**
Lady Shiratama, have you ever
once tried to make your own choice?
**[04:29] Nazukihiko**
Ever made your desire
to do something plain?
**[04:35] Nazukihiko**
Bound by your birth and
making an excuse of your bonds,
**[04:39] Nazukihiko**
you have lived only as you are told,
**[04:42] Nazukihiko**
lamenting your misfortune all the while.
**[04:45] Nazukihiko**
I might generously call it "self-sacrifice,"
but it boils down to laziness.
**[04:50] Nazukihiko**
You cannot possibly answer my question
when you have no thoughts of your own.
**[04:57] Yukiya**
You didn't have to put it like that.
**[04:59] Nazukihiko**
Now, what will you do with the child?
**[05:12] Cha-no-Hana**
What child?
**[05:15] Masuho**
He cannot mean Shiratama is...
**[05:24] Cha-no-Hana**
My lady!
**[05:25] Cha-no-Hana**
Did you meet with Kazumi
in Cherry Blossom Palace?
**[05:29] Shiratama**
What?
**[05:31] Cha-no-Hana**
You *did* meet with him, didn't you?
**[05:38] Shiratama**
Kazumi?
**[05:41] Cha-no-Hana**
Your Highness, please have mercy!
**[05:43] Cha-no-Hana**
Lady Shiratama meant no harm!
**[05:45] Cha-no-Hana**
Any blame should fall
squarely on my shoulders!
**[05:49] Cha-no-Hana**
I beg you, let me see to it!
**[05:52] Cha-no-Hana**
I will instruct my lady well and
deliver her as a perfect, untouched bride!
**[06:00] Nazukihiko**
Well, Shiratama?
**[06:03] Nazukihiko**
Depending on your answer,
I am prepared to make you my consort.
**[06:12] Ukogi**
T-Truly?!
**[06:14] Kikuno**
Marry *her*?!
**[06:16] Cha-no-Hana**
My lady, tell him you will!
**[06:19] Cha-no-Hana**
My lady!
**[06:28] Shiratama**
Kazumi...
**[06:34] Cha-no-Hana**
My lady!
**[06:35] Shiratama**
Don't come near me!
**[06:38] Shiratama**
No one will touch this child.
**[06:41] Shiratama**
I will keep it safe.
**[06:43] Shiratama**
You expect me to marry the Prince?
**[06:46] Shiratama**
I will never...
**[06:50] Shiratama**
I will never lose Kazumi again!
**[06:56] Nazukihiko**
I see you have finally chosen for yourself.
**[06:59] Shiratama**
What?
**[07:04] Kazumi**
Shiratama!
**[07:15] Shiratama**
Ka...
**[07:17] Shiratama**
Kazumi!
**[07:24] Shiratama**
Kazumi. Is it really you?
**[07:28] Kazumi**
Yes. Yes, it's me.
**[07:33] Kikuno**
What is going on here?
**[07:35] Kikuno**
Was Kazumi not the scoundrel
that Takimoto beheaded?
**[07:38] Ukogi**
I saw it with my own eyes.
**[07:42] Yukiya**
That was someone else entirely.
**[07:44] Ukogi**
Someone else?
**[07:45] Yukiya**
Kazumi did sneak into Cherry Blossom Palace
that night to see Lady Shiratama.
**[07:51] Yukiya**
But the intruder in the Autumn Hall
led to heightened security.
**[08:05] Kazumi**
When morning came, I managed to
change shape and escape the palace, but...
**[08:16] Kazumi**
Shiratama, forgive me.
I know I worried you.
**[08:21] Shiratama**
Kazumi, don't leave me again.
**[08:25] Shiratama**
I want to be by your side,
and be with you always.
**[08:36] Cha-no-Hana**
This...
**[08:38] Cha-no-Hana**
This cannot be.
**[08:41] Nazukihiko**
I have spoken with a hill raven couple.
**[08:44] Nazukihiko**
They lead a meager life, without
a house to sleep in, let alone finery.
**[08:50] Nazukihiko**
So when winter comes,
they nestle on tree branches in raven shape.
**[08:58] Nazukihiko**
"It gets cold," they told me with
a laugh, but they do not mind that.
**[09:05] Asebi**
Lady Shiratama looks so happy.
**[09:10] Ukogi**
That took years off my life.
**[09:13] Yukiya**
Still, Your Highness went
out on a limb that time.
**[09:16] Nazukihiko**
How so?
**[09:17] Yukiya**
That bluff about Lady Shiratama's child.
**[09:21] Nazukihiko**
Oh, that. The odds weren't so bad.
**[09:25] Nazukihiko**
Shiratama was agitated,
**[09:27] Nazukihiko**
and Cha-no-Hana pressured her,
as I expected she would.
**[09:32] Nazukihiko**
I doubt those two have done anything
that might lead to pregnancy.
**[09:36] Nazukihiko**
Still, I suppose Shiratama chose
the story she wanted to believe.
**[09:46] Ukogi**
But in that case, who was that brute
of a raven Takimoto beheaded?
**[09:55] Yukiya**
Next, the first daughter of the West,
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki!
**[10:03] Nazukihiko**
Your father sheltered me in childhood.
**[10:07] Nazukihiko**
I see that you approach this rite
with a strong sense of duty.
**[10:12] Masuho**
I merely wish to aid Your Highness.
**[10:17] Masuho**
Yet I never imagined...
**[10:21] Masuho**
that we four who began the rite
would be but three a year later.
**[10:35] Masuho**
As such, I hope you will
answer a question I have.
**[10:38] Nazukihiko**
Ask it.
**[10:40] Masuho**
It concerns Hamayu.
**[10:43] Masuho**
I cannot bring myself to believe that
she truly sought to take Your Highness's life.
**[10:50] Masuho**
Surely you have realized the same?
**[10:53] Nazukihiko**
And what if I have?
**[10:55] Masuho**
Restore Hamayu's honor.
**[10:57] Masuho**
She may truly have been an assassin,
**[11:02] Masuho**
but by refusing to act, she worked
to defend Your Highness instead.
**[11:09] Nazukihiko**
I see.
**[11:11] Nazukihiko**
But why, Lady Masuho,
do you ask for this now?
**[11:15] Masuho**
Because I feel I ought to.
**[11:17] Masuho**
My pride will not allow me
to look the other way.
**[11:21] Masuho**
If I did, then even if you
chose me as your consort—
**[11:25] Nazukihiko**
Do not bother. How can I restore her honor
when she has said nothing in her defense?
**[11:30] Nazukihiko**
And I have no interest in your "pride."
**[11:41] Masuho**
Why did you go an entire year
without visiting us?
**[11:45] Nazukihiko**
Because I had no need to.
**[11:47] Masuho**
"Need"?
**[11:49] Masuho**
I do not take your meaning. How can
you choose a lady without meeting her?
**[11:55] Masuho**
We came to Cherry Blossom Palace
to become women worthy of you.
**[12:00] Masuho**
Each day, we refine ourselves and vie for—
**[12:03] Nazukihiko**
Nonsense.
**[12:06] Nazukihiko**
Are refinement and rivalry
worth touting with such passion?
**[12:11] Masuho**
I merely wish to convey our feelings.
Each day seemed like a thousand years to...
**[12:18] Nazukihiko**
Allow me to enlighten you.
**[12:20] Nazukihiko**
Cherry Blossom Palace does not
exist for you to play house in.
**[12:25] Nazukihiko**
It exists for me to choose a woman.
**[12:28] Nazukihiko**
And I am looking for
only one quality in a bride.
**[12:32] Nazukihiko**
Patience.
**[12:33] Nazukihiko**
Nothing else matters.
**[12:55] Masuho**
So you were testing us.
**[12:56] Nazukihiko**
You are welcome to think that.
**[12:58] Masuho**
Do not be absurd!
**[13:01] Masuho**
Do you know how grueling it is
to simply wait with no end in sight?
**[13:05] Masuho**
You can survey Cherry Blossom
Palace from on high,
**[13:08] Masuho**
but Shiratama fretted herself into illness.
**[13:12] Masuho**
Hamayu might have
even avoided expulsion.
**[13:17] Nazukihiko**
Do you mean to say I should have
visited when I had no wish to?
**[13:21] Masuho**
No. I am merely speaking of feelings.
**[13:24] Nazukihiko**
You would do, you know.
**[13:28] Nazukihiko**
You have a sense of duty,
and you can act when you need to.
**[13:33] Nazukihiko**
Your personality leaves something to be desired,
but even so, you would make a fine empress.
**[13:42] Nazukihiko**
Masuho-no-Susuki,
first daughter of the West,
**[13:46] Nazukihiko**
I do not find you particularly special,
and I do not love you, either.
**[13:52] Nazukihiko**
That will not change if I marry you,
**[13:55] Nazukihiko**
nor will I favor the Western House
due to your family ties.
**[14:01] Nazukihiko**
I will take any number of
concubines if the need arises.
**[14:05] Nazukihiko**
Given the right circumstances,
I may even abandon you.
**[14:09] Nazukihiko**
But I will not allow you to complain or
to become intimate with any other man.
**[14:16] Nazukihiko**
You must stifle yourself
and live only for me.
**[14:20] Nazukihiko**
If you are prepared to accept all of that,
I will make you my wife.
**[14:27] Nazukihiko**
Masuho-no-Susuki, make your choice.
**[14:42] Kikuno**
My lady.
**[14:45] Masuho**
Kikuno, give me your dagger.
**[14:50] Kikuno**
M-My lady!
**[14:52] Asebi**
Lady Masuho-no-Susuki!
**[15:10] Masuho**
Your Highness, though I appreciate
your proposal, permit me to decline.
**[15:16] Masuho**
Even if you were to command me,
**[15:19] Masuho**
I have just dedicated myself to the
Mountain God, and thus could not comply.
**[15:26] Nazukihiko**
You leave nothing to chance.
You did not need to go that far.
**[15:33] Masuho**
I find I am more stubborn
and simpleminded than I thought.
**[15:39] Masuho**
But that is the price I pay
for living with pride.
**[15:45] Masuho**
I could not become the woman you desired,
but if anything, I feel refreshed.
**[15:51] Masuho**
Your Highness has my gratitude.
**[15:55] Nazukihiko**
I am glad I could be of service.
**[16:03] Kikuno**
Oh, whatever shall I do?
**[16:05] Kikuno**
I must fix your hair, then return to
the Autumn Hall for fresh clothes—
**[16:08] Masuho**
Calm down, Kikuno.
**[16:10] Masuho**
His Highness is watching,
and he has yet to make his choice.
**[16:21] Yukiya**
Now, finally...
**[16:40] Nazukihiko**
Lady Asebi.
**[16:42] Nazukihiko**
I have desired to speak to you for a long time.
**[16:45] Asebi**
I feel the same way.
**[16:49] Asebi**
I doubt you remember, but when
we were small children, you and I...
**[16:56] Nazukihiko**
I remember.
**[16:58] Nazukihiko**
You looked like a cherry blossom sprite.
**[17:01] Nazukihiko**
You still do.
**[17:19] Nazukihiko**
The court is nothing but a history of blood.
**[17:25] Nazukihiko**
Becoming my consort means
always living within its confines.
**[17:31] Nazukihiko**
Can you endure that?
**[17:35] Nazukihiko**
Two lives were lost in
Cherry Blossom Palace this past year.
**[17:41] Nazukihiko**
Do you still wish to become my wife here?
**[17:47] Asebi**
I am sure you will think less of me for it,
**[17:50] Asebi**
but I wish to marry Your Highness,
no matter the cost.
**[17:57] Nazukihiko**
"No matter the cost"?
**[18:19] Nazukihiko**
Shortly before Samomo passed away...
**[18:22] Nazukihiko**
you used her as a messenger to
exchange letters with someone, correct?
**[18:27] Asebi**
Yes.
**[18:29] Nazukihiko**
With whom?
**[18:30] Asebi**
An Eastern manservant. Kasuke is his name.
**[18:35] Ukogi**
My lady! When did you do such a thing?!
**[18:37] Asebi**
Can you blame me, Ukogi?
You refused to tell me anything.
**[18:41] Asebi**
I wanted to learn about my mother.
**[18:45] Asebi**
But Kasuke wrote that he couldn't
put something so important in writing.
**[18:50] Asebi**
So I said, "Why not talk, then?"
**[18:55] Nazukihiko**
You invited him to Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[18:59] Asebi**
Yes.
**[19:03] Masuho**
You invited... Tell me you are joking.
**[19:09] Nazukihiko**
A lady in Cherry Blossom Palace corresponding
with a man, then arranging a tryst.
**[19:15] Nazukihiko**
Even you must realize what a serious
breach of protocol that constitutes.
**[19:22] Asebi**
I'm so sorry. He is only a manservant,
so I thought it wouldn't matter.
**[19:27] Nazukihiko**
A manservant is still a man.
**[19:29] Asebi**
A man?
**[19:31] Asebi**
But he's a hill raven.
**[19:35] Asebi**
It was nothing so grand as a tryst.
**[19:38] Asebi**
And anyway, Kasuke never came.
He broke his promise.
**[19:43] Nazukihiko**
No, Kasuke was a man of his word.
**[19:47] Nazukihiko**
He came to Cherry Blossom
Palace at your call,
**[19:50] Nazukihiko**
but he would be killed before he saw you.
**[19:52] Nazukihiko**
On a moonless night.
**[20:01] (Flashback) Masuho**
Who's there?!
**[20:01] (Flashback) Kikuno**
Intruder!
**[20:05] (Flashback) Wisteria Guards**
There he is! I found him!
**[20:11] Masuho**
*He* was the intruder?
**[20:17] Asebi**
Truly?
**[20:19] Nazukihiko**
And that was not the first time
you had summoned Kasuke, was it?
**[20:25] (Flashback) Futaba**
Even now, I cannot get
that night out of my mind.
**[20:30] ---**
First Lady of
the Eastern House
Futaba
**[20:31] (Flashback) Futaba**
My house held a New Year's party.
**[20:35] (Flashback) Futaba**
I dismissed all my attendants
and remained alone in this room.
**[20:39] (Flashback) Futaba**
That was always my way.
I am not fond of lively occasions.
**[20:49] (Flashback) Futaba**
I thought one of my ladies had returned.
**[21:02] (Flashback) Futaba**
That voice... That stinking breath...
They still cling to me.
**[21:08] (Flashback) Futaba**
Again and again, he whispered in my ear,
**[21:13] (Flashback) Futaba**
"I'm so glad. You finally called for me...
**[21:17] (Flashback) Futaba**
Second Lady."
**[21:29] Yukiya**
"*Second* Lady"?
**[21:35] Nazukihiko**
By all rights, Lady Futaba, the first
daughter of the East, should be here now.
**[21:41] Nazukihiko**
But unable to reveal what had befallen her,
she pleaded pockmarks and declined.
**[21:47] Nazukihiko**
The second daughter of the East
was chosen in her place.
**[21:50] Nazukihiko**
You, Asebi.
**[21:59] Ukogi**
Y-Your Highness does not know her.
**[22:02] Ukogi**
My lady could never maliciously
entrap someone. It is not in her nature.
**[22:07] Ukogi**
I beg your pardon, but I am told Lady Futaba
has always been difficult and inclined to brood.
**[22:14] Ukogi**
Who can say if she told you the truth?
**[22:16] Ukogi**
And that intruder died in raven shape,
making him impossible to identify.
**[22:22] Ukogi**
Nothing proves he was Kasuke,
**[22:24] Ukogi**
and we cannot question Samomo,
who carried the letters.
**[22:29] Ukogi**
Surely this is all supposition!
**[22:31] Ukogi**
How can you claim that
my lady orchestrated it all?!
**[22:41] Nazukihiko**
Very well.
**[22:44] Nazukihiko**
In that case, let me tell you...
***SIGN*** Kasuke
**[22:47] Nazukihiko**
what your beloved lady has been up
to while your eyes were turned.
**[24:30] Narrator**
* Of the prospective consorts,*
* only Asebi remains.*
**[24:35] Narrator**
*What do her clear, beautiful eyes behold?*
**[24:42] Narrator**
* After unraveling every mystery,*
* what verdict will the Prince deliver?*
**[24:49] Narrator**
*Next time: "Ravens Shouldn't Wear Kimono."*
***SIGN*** Ravens Shouldn't
***SIGN*** Wear Kimono
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E13 - Ravens Shouldn't Wear Kimono
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G14U47P44/ravens-shouldnt-wear-kimono)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[01:47] Nazukihiko**
Very well.
**[01:49] Nazukihiko**
In that case, let me tell you...
***SIGN*** Kasuke
**[01:52] Nazukihiko**
what your beloved lady has been up
to while your eyes were turned.
**[01:58] Masuho**
A letter?
***SIGN*** Kasuke
**[02:02] Elderly Lady-in-waiting**
When you return to the Center, please tell
His Highness we appreciate his concern.
**[02:08] Nazukihiko**
Certainly. I promise to inform His Highness.
**[02:21] Nazukihiko**
Shall I assist you?
**[02:23] Kasuke**
Huh?
**[02:25] Nazukihiko**
Then, you and the Second Lady
must be quite close, Kasuke.
**[02:30] Kasuke**
I wouldn't dare!
**[02:30] Kasuke**
Servant of
the Eastern House
Kasuke
**[02:33] Kasuke**
But her ladyship has a good heart.
**[02:37] Kasuke**
She even has kind words for hill
ravens with no family, like me.
**[02:43] Kasuke**
I would do anything for her.
**[02:48] Nazukihiko**
The next time I called on the Eastern
House, Kasuke had gone missing.
**[02:53] Nazukihiko**
Most assumed he had grown dissatisfied
with his treatment and fled.
**[02:58] Nazukihiko**
And just before that, an
intruder caused a stir here.
**[03:01] Nazukihiko**
I saved this letter from the
fire in the nick of time.
**[03:05] Ukogi**
Wh-What does it say?
**[03:28] Yukiya**
"I'd like you to come see me
without a word to anyone."
**[03:32] Asebi**
I'll await you on the first
moonless night after Tanabata.
**[03:39] Asebi**
Come to the red kimono and—
**[03:43] Shiratama**
A red kimono hangs outside the
Autumn Hall, not the Spring Hall!
**[03:47] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[03:49] Masuho**
Asebi, you *meant* to
send that man to me?!
**[03:54] Asebi**
You misunderstand, Lady Masuho!
**[03:56] Asebi**
I *tried* to put out a red kimono!
Right in front of my room!
**[04:00] Asebi**
But...
**[04:01] Ukogi**
I... I bear the blame!
**[04:04] Ukogi**
I took the kimono down, never
dreaming what it was for.
**[04:10] Ukogi**
My lady never meant to cause distress.
**[04:13] Nazukihiko**
She should have had no difficulty
foreseeing you would stop her.
**[04:17] Ukogi**
That is but more speculation!
**[04:20] Nazukihiko**
I see ladies-in-waiting
are loyal to a fault.
**[04:24] Nazukihiko**
I hear that Kasuke could not read.
**[04:27] Asebi**
What? Is such a thing possible?
**[04:31] Nazukihiko**
It's hardly unusual, especially
among poor, rural hill ravens.
**[04:37] Nazukihiko**
Samomo read your letter aloud to Kasuke
and wrote out his reply for him.
**[04:45] Nazukihiko**
You didn't realize? I thought as much.
**[04:50] Asebi**
Thank you for going, Samomo.
**[04:53] Asebi**
How did it go? Did you get an answer?
**[04:57] Asebi**
Thank you!
**[04:58] Asebi**
You must be tired. Take it easy today.
**[05:15] Asebi**
Samomo doesn't seem like herself.
**[05:18] Asebi**
I think she found out that I
summoned a manservant here.
**[05:22] Asebi**
Samomo won't tell anyone, will she?
**[05:25] Asebi**
Will I need to leave the palace
if this becomes public knowledge?
**[05:34] Asebi**
Whatever shall I do,
**[05:38] Asebi**
Princess Fujinami?!
**[05:44] Nazukihiko**
Do I have that
approximately right, Fujinami?
**[05:47] Takimoto**
Her Highness is in ill health.
**[05:51] Takimoto**
Even Your Highness has no right to...
**[05:56] Nazukihiko**
Now, let's read one more letter.
**[05:59] Asebi**
That's... the letter I wrote to *you*!
**[06:03] Asebi**
Receiving my first
letter from Your Highness
**[06:06] Asebi**
made me so happy that I
wrote back right away.
**[06:08] Nazukihiko**
Yes. And I wrote identical
letters to all four ladies.
**[06:15] Nazukihiko**
But for some reason, I only
received this single reply.
***SIGN*** His Highness
the Prince
**[06:24] Kikuno**
Only the Spring Hall received
His Highness's letter?
**[06:27] Kikuno**
Ukogi, is that true?!
**[06:30] Ukogi**
W-Well...
**[06:31] Asebi**
Wait! Don't blame Ukogi.
**[06:34] Asebi**
I felt so giddy that I didn't
think things through.
**[06:38] Cha-no-Hana**
You have some nerve,
feigning innocence.
**[06:41] Cha-no-Hana**
Don't tell me you and Hamayu
stole those letters together?
**[06:46] Yukiya**
I don't think Lady Hamayu
was the letter thief.
**[06:50] Cha-no-Hana**
What do you mean? Hamayu
admitted to the theft herself!
**[06:56] Masuho**
I believe in Hamayu's innocence as well.
**[07:00] Masuho**
The letters were kept under strict watch.
**[07:02] Masuho**
Messages to Cherry Blossom Palace
are stopped at Wisteria Hall,
**[07:07] Masuho**
from which each house's
ladies-in-waiting retrieve them.
**[07:11] Masuho**
The system allows no opportunity
to take another house's letters.
**[07:14] Masuho**
That goes for all of us, not only Hamayu.
**[07:18] Cha-no-Hana**
But the letters were in fact—
**[07:21] Shiratama**
You said all correspondence is stored
in Wisteria Hall, didn't you?
**[07:26] Shiratama**
Then, even if we couldn't
take it, perhaps...
**[07:36] Fujinami**
B-Brother, I...
**[07:41] Fujinami**
Forgive me, Brother!
**[07:45] Fujinami**
I've been a fool.
**[07:47] Fujinami**
I merely wished for Lady Asebi
to become your consort.
**[07:52] Nazukihiko**
Hiding my letters is a trivial matter.
**[07:55] Nazukihiko**
At least compared to your
other crime, Fujinami.
**[08:12] Fujinami**
I understand.
**[08:14] Fujinami**
I'll speak with Samomo. She won't breathe
a word of your manservant to anyone.
**[08:19] Asebi**
But I can't help feeling uneasy.
**[08:22] Asebi**
Samomo loves to chat. What
if her tongue slips?
**[08:25] Fujinami**
Surely you worry too much.
**[08:28] Fujinami**
Samomo knows her duty, and she has
a good head on her shoulders.
**[08:38] Asebi**
That's true. No doubt you're right.
**[08:43] Fujinami**
Sister, umm...
**[08:45] Asebi**
Forgive me for intruding on
you at such a busy time.
**[08:59] Fujinami**
You've served me well all this time.
**[09:01] Fujinami**
You may have this. Now, leave
Cherry Blossom Palace at once.
**[09:06] Samomo**
Is it Lady Asebi?
**[09:08] Samomo**
She isn't the person Your
Highness imagines her to be.
**[09:12] Samomo**
Her ladyship—
**[09:13] Fujinami**
Enough.
**[09:14] Fujinami**
I told you to go. Now, go.
**[09:15] Samomo**
She's trying to ensnare her
rivals by underhanded—
**[09:18] Fujinami**
I don't want to hear another word from you!
**[09:20] Samomo**
Please! Please hear me out!
**[09:28] Fujinami**
Dawn has broken.
**[09:30] Fujinami**
Fly away this instant.
**[09:32] Fujinami**
A hill raven like you must know how!
**[09:34] Samomo**
Be care—
**[10:06] Takimoto**
Worry not.
**[10:08] Takimoto**
I, Takimoto, shall ensure
Your Highness's safety.
**[10:15] Fujinami**
I didn't know.
**[10:17] Fujinami**
I thought hill ravens could
fly whenever they want.
**[10:20] Fujinami**
How could I know her kimono
would get in the way?
**[10:24] Fujinami**
I only wanted her to leave.
**[10:27] Fujinami**
Lady Asebi was troubled.
**[10:30] Fujinami**
I didn't want to lose
Lady Asebi's affection!
**[10:36] Nazukihiko**
You share her guilt, Takimoto.
**[10:39] Nazukihiko**
You beheaded Kasuke while he merely
ran in panic, branded him a thief,
**[10:44] Nazukihiko**
and then twisted the truth to claim he
killed Samomo after falling out with her.
**[10:49] Nazukihiko**
All to shield your mistress.
**[10:52] Yukiya**
Samomo's corpse was half human
and half in raven shape.
**[10:59] Yukiya**
She struggled frantically to
fly until the bitter end.
**[11:07] Fujinami**
S-Samomo!
**[11:15] Fujinami**
I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry!
**[11:23] Asebi**
Oh, poor Princess Fujinami.
**[11:27] Nazukihiko**
You pity her?
**[11:30] Nazukihiko**
You must have realized she harbored
special feelings for you,
**[11:35] Nazukihiko**
that she'd hidden my letters to
the other ladies for your sake.
**[11:38] Asebi**
I did, and it pained me.
**[11:42] Asebi**
I felt so guilty toward Lady Shiratama
and Lady Masuho-no-Susuki.
**[11:46] Asebi**
But Princess Fujinami acted
out of affection for me.
**[11:52] Asebi**
I couldn't possibly fault her for it.
**[11:55] Nazukihiko**
And what about Samomo?
**[11:57] Nazukihiko**
Did you never stop to think
what Fujinami would do
**[12:02] Nazukihiko**
if you mentioned leaving the
palace and begged her for help?
**[12:06] Asebi**
You don't mean...
**[12:08] Asebi**
the Princess misunderstood me?!
**[12:14] Asebi**
Oh, how awful!
**[12:17] Asebi**
I failed to make myself clear,
**[12:20] Asebi**
but I never dreamed she would
do anything so frightful!
**[12:26] Asebi**
I bear all the blame.
**[12:29] Asebi**
If only I hadn't presumed on
Princess Fujinami's affection.
**[12:33] Asebi**
Please forgive me, Princess Fujinami.
**[12:39] Asebi**
Samono and Kasuke should
never have had to die.
**[12:44] Asebi**
What a tragic twist of fate.
**[13:14] Nazukihiko**
I can't prove your malice.
**[13:21] Asebi**
Your Highness, for so long,
I've felt drawn to—
**[13:26] Nazukihiko**
But I'm sorry to say I loathe you.
**[13:37] Fujinami**
Sister...
**[13:47] Fujinami**
Brother...!
**[14:26] Nazukihiko**
I've kept you waiting, Sumi.
**[14:28] Yukiya**
"Sumi"?
**[14:30] Nazukihiko**
Hey. Face facts already.
**[14:32] Nazukihiko**
Did you forget your old name?
**[14:34] Nazukihiko**
Or did falling off a cliff on your
rump knock it out of your head?
**[14:39] Hamayu**
You... pasty-faced wimp!
**[14:42] Shiratama**
L-Lady Hamayu?!
**[14:46] Masuho**
Honestly! You had me worried sick!
**[14:58] Hamayu**
So, when did you
figure out I was Sumi?
**[15:02] Nazukihiko**
When I sounded out the Southern House.
**[15:05] Nazukihiko**
It turned out my old partner-in-crime
had entered the palace as a lady.
**[15:09] Nazukihiko**
I assume you sent me that warning.
**[15:12] Nazukihiko**
Not many people would
take my side, after all.
**[15:17] Hamayu**
I guess nothing gets past you.
**[15:23] Nazukihiko**
I got a letter from Masuho-no-Susuki.
**[15:26] Nazukihiko**
She wrote that she was harboring you,
**[15:29] Nazukihiko**
and that you'd confessed to stealing
letters you never touched.
**[15:33] Hamayu**
Why, that—
**[15:34] Nazukihiko**
You didn't shield Fujinami.
**[15:37] Nazukihiko**
You tried to protect her
kin in the Western House.
**[15:41] Nazukihiko**
A stain on their reputation would get
in the way of my marrying Masuho.
**[15:45] Hamayu**
You're too clever by half.
**[15:48] Hamayu**
I put my money
on Masuho-no-Susuki.
**[15:51] Hamayu**
If anyone has what it takes
to be your consort, she does.
**[15:55] Nazukihiko**
Well, you have a point.
**[15:58] Hamayu**
Then, why did you goad her into
giving you the cold shoulder?
**[16:02] Nazukihiko**
You could tell?
**[16:03] Hamayu**
Ask for Masuho-no-Susuki's hand again.
**[16:06] Nazukihiko**
Masuho just took holy vows.
**[16:07] Hamayu**
It's not too late. I'll talk to her.
**[16:10] Hamayu**
Of the Four Houses, only the West
can protect you going forward.
**[16:14] Hamayu**
You know that, right?
**[16:18] Hamayu**
This isn't funny!
**[16:20] Hamayu**
Your life is on the line!
**[16:23] Nazukihiko**
Thank you, Sumi.
**[16:32] Nazukihiko**
I want to change the status quo.
**[16:35] Nazukihiko**
The Empress and the Kin'u have warped
imperial relations with the Four Houses.
**[16:39] Nazukihiko**
I want to set them right.
**[16:42] Nazukihiko**
To do that, the Royal House
must have neutrality.
**[16:45] Nazukihiko**
For my consort, I need a
woman who can do her duty
**[16:49] Nazukihiko**
but who won't tip the power
balance of the Four Houses.
**[16:53] Hamayu**
I see where you're coming from,
**[16:55] Hamayu**
but where will you find a woman like—
**[16:59] Nazukihiko**
Hamayu.
**[17:01] Nazukihiko**
I do not find you particularly special,
and I do not love you, either.
**[17:07] Nazukihiko**
That will not change if I marry you.
**[17:11] Nazukihiko**
I will take any number of
concubines if the need arises.
**[17:14] Nazukihiko**
Given the right circumstances,
I may even abandon you.
**[17:19] Nazukihiko**
But I will not allow you to complain or
to become intimate with any other man.
**[17:26] Nazukihiko**
You must stifle yourself
and live only for me.
**[17:30] Nazukihiko**
If you are prepared to accept all of that,
would you consent to become my wife?
**[17:38] Hamayu**
So, that's how it is.
**[17:41] Nazukihiko**
You belong to none of the Four Houses.
**[17:43] Nazukihiko**
I couldn't ask for a more perfect consort.
**[17:47] Hamayu**
You don't mind making enemies
of all four houses?
**[17:50] Nazukihiko**
I'm counting on it.
**[17:52] Hamayu**
Your mother was murdered by—
**[17:54] Nazukihiko**
I know, but it doesn't matter.
**[18:06] Hamayu**
I have one condition.
**[18:09] Hamayu**
Let me tend to you on your deathbed.
**[18:14] Nazukihiko**
Very well. You have my word.
**[18:25] Nazukihiko**
What was that for? I thought you'd
fallen head over heels for me.
**[18:31] Hamayu**
I suggest you study up on women's feelings.
**[18:39] Sumi**
Ow.
**[18:41] Sumi**
Damn it. I slipped.
**[18:47] Nazukihiko**
Let's go,
**[18:48] Nazukihiko**
Sumi.
**[19:26] ---**
Castle Town Center
**[19:29] Girl**
See you later.
**[19:53] Sumio**
So, you're going back
to Taruhi after all?
**[19:55] Yukiya**
Sorry, but I guess the Center
just doesn't suit me.
**[19:59] Sumio**
And you're letting him go, Nazukihiko?
**[20:01] Yukiya**
I'm grateful to Your Highness.
**[20:03] Yukiya**
You saw me for myself, not
my birth or breeding.
**[20:08] Yukiya**
No one's ever done that before.
**[20:10] Nazukihiko**
I don't deserve your thanks,
but I appreciate them.
**[20:32] Sumio**
Well, take care.
**[20:34] Yukiya**
I will. You too, Sumio.
**[20:37] Nazukihiko**
We'll meet again someday.
**[20:39] Yukiya**
Er, I don't plan on coming back.
**[20:42] Nazukihiko**
My kin'u instinct tells me.
**[20:44] Yukiya**
That again?
**[20:49] Yukiya**
I might as well ask you
while I have the chance.
**[20:52] Yukiya**
Why are you so
obsessed with the throne?
**[20:55] Yukiya**
I've been with you for a year now,
watching court power struggles.
**[21:02] Yukiya**
They were a total farce.
**[21:06] Yukiya**
The court wants Lord Natsuka
to succeed, right?
**[21:10] Yukiya**
So, why not just let him?
**[21:12] Yukiya**
You could get involved in
government through Lord Natsuka.
**[21:16] Yukiya**
Why risk your life just
to become kin'u yourself?
**[21:20] Sumio**
You've got it wrong, Yukiya. He—
**[21:22] Nazukihiko**
Sumio.
**[21:23] Yukiya**
I'm saying this because
I don't want to let you die!
**[21:34] Yukiya**
Please give up on the throne.
**[21:39] Yukiya**
I'll stay here if you do.
**[21:42] Yukiya**
If you become just another
court raven, not a golden one,
**[21:46] Yukiya**
I'll serve you.
**[21:53] Nazukihiko**
If you take being the kin'u from
me, I'll have nothing left.
**[22:01] Yukiya**
Then get yourself killed without me.
**[22:04] Yukiya**
And out of my sight, if you please.
**[22:21] Sumio**
Nazukihiko, do you see something?
**[24:30] Narrator**
Having finished his service as
aide, Yukiya lingers in Taruhi
**[24:35] Narrator**
when a raven lands before him.
**[24:39] Narrator**
New encounters bring new enemies.
**[24:43] Narrator**
Yukiya has yet to learn of the
threat creeping toward Yamauchi.
***SIGN*** The
Taboo
Elixir
**[24:50] Narrator**
Next time: "The Taboo Elixir"
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E14 - The Taboo Elixir
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GN7UDM4VG/the-taboo-elixir)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[01:49] Boy**
Shh! Don't cry!
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** The North
***SIGN*** Physician
***SIGN*** Physician
***SIGN*** The Lord's manor, Taruhi
**[04:29] Azusa**
Yukiya. Yukiya!
**[04:33] Azusa**
Rise and shine.
**[04:39] Azusa**
Yukiya.
**[04:42] Yukiya**
Mother.
**[04:45] Yukiya**
Good morning.
**[04:47] Azusa**
Good morning.
**[04:48] Azusa**
For the second time today.
**[04:52] Yukiya**
What do you mean?
**[04:55] Azusa**
Yukima and Yukichi went out
right after breakfast.
***SIGN*** Wife of the Lord of Taruhi
Azusa
**[05:02] Azusa**
They looked like they had
somewhere they had to be.
**[05:07] Yukiya**
Plum picking!
**[05:09] Yukiya**
Of course! Today's the plum harvest!
**[05:11] Yukiya**
Ah! How could I fall back asleep?
**[05:15] Yukiya**
Aw, man.
**[05:24] Azusa**
Are you feeling all right?
**[05:27] Yukiya**
I-I'm fine, mother.
**[05:30] Yukiya**
Never been healthier.
**[05:32] Yukiya**
Anyway, see you later.
***SIGN*** The Lord of Taruhi's
third son
Yukichi
**[06:07] Yukichi**
Yukiya!
***SIGN*** The Lord of Taruhi's
eldest son
Yukima
**[06:10] Yukima**
Don't go telling us you're sorry.
**[06:12] Yukima**
You're late! The harvest is already over!
**[06:18] Villager 1**
He never changes.
**[06:20] Villager 1**
It's been two whole months
since he got back from the Center.
**[06:23] Villager 2**
Leave him be. I like that
the middle brother's so easygoing.
**[06:29] Yukiya**
*Aw, man. I really messed up.*
**[06:32] Yukiya**
*Guess I might as well land.*
**[06:40] Yukiya**
*Huh? Is that guy hurt or something?*
**[06:56] Yukiya**
Whoa!
**[07:02] Yukima**
What are they doing?
**[07:20] Yukima**
Yukiya!
**[07:22] Yukiya**
Ow.
**[07:24] Yukima**
Are you all right?
**[07:25] Yukiya**
Something's wrong with that guy.
**[07:27] Yukima**
Huh?
**[07:28] Yukiya**
He tried to grab me and
slam me into the ground.
**[07:33] Yukiya**
He didn't even care that he might also die.
**[07:37] Yukiya**
Brother.
**[07:39] Yukima**
Everyone! Into the sheds!
**[07:45] Yukima**
Hurry!
**[07:51] Old Man**
Ow, that smarts.
**[07:53] Yukiya**
Gramps!
**[08:07] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[08:14] Yukiya**
Now's our chance.
**[08:15] Old Man**
R-Right.
**[08:34] Yukiya**
Wow.
**[08:41] Yukiya**
Thank you so much, Mr. uh...
**[08:44] Nazukihiko**
You're not hurt, are you?
**[08:45] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[08:47] Yukiya**
Huh? What?!
**[08:55] Yukimasa**
Come. Have a drink.
***SIGN*** The Lord of Taruhi
in the North
Yukimasa
**[09:05] Yukimasa**
Well, I'll be. You really
know how to put it away.
**[09:10] Nazukihiko**
They say fate works in strange ways.
**[09:13] Nazukihiko**
Still, I never imagined I'd run into you here.
What a coincidence, Sir Yukiya.
**[09:19] Yukiya**
Sure. Whatever you say.
**[09:21] Yukimasa**
Yukiya, at least *try* to act friendly.
**[09:24] Yukimasa**
I beg your pardon, Sir Sumimaru.
**[09:27] Yukimasa**
My second son isn't good for much.
**[09:29] Yukimasa**
No doubt he caused you no end
of trouble in the Center.
**[09:33] Nazukihiko**
Not at all. Your son was a great help
to His Highness and myself.
**[09:38] Yukimasa**
Oh, there's no need for flattery.
**[09:42] Yukimasa**
He admitted he was so useless
the Prince couldn't wait to send him packing.
**[09:54] Azusa**
Please, eat your fill.
**[09:59] Azusa**
These young sweetfish are freshly caught.
**[10:02] Azusa**
Come now. Start serving.
**[10:04] Maidservants**
Yes, my lady.
**[10:11] Guard**
Do me a favor and stay put.
**[10:16] Yukimasa**
A taboo elixir?
**[10:19] Nazukihiko**
Those who take it supposedly
feel utterly fulfilled.
**[10:23] Nazukihiko**
They brim with confidence,
as if they had ascended to godhood.
**[10:29] Nazukihiko**
But after repeated doses,
they lose their minds...
**[10:31] Yukichi**
And end up like that guy today?
**[10:33] Nazukihiko**
Indeed.
**[10:35] Yukimasa**
How could such a drug...
**[10:37] Yukimasa**
But wait...
**[10:43] Yukimasa**
A little while back, I got a report
of someone at the Taruhi inn
**[10:48] Yukimasa**
peddling some strange medicine
they claim had caught on in the Center.
**[10:53] Yukimasa**
I took my men to investigate,
**[10:58] Yukimasa**
but we couldn't find any solid proof.
**[11:01] Nazukihiko**
The drug definitely exists.
**[11:05] Nazukihiko**
But we know far too little about it.
**[11:08] Nazukihiko**
What is it made of? Who is spreading it?
How? And for how long?
**[11:13] Yukimasa**
So you have come to investigate?
**[11:15] Nazukihiko**
Yes. On direct orders from His Highness.
**[11:19] Yukimasa**
Truly? Then, allow us to
assist you in any way we can.
**[11:25] Yukimasa**
This matter concerns
the peace of the North as well.
**[11:28] Nazukihiko**
Thank you.
**[11:29] Nazukihiko**
In that case...
**[11:32] Nazukihiko**
May I borrow Sir Yukiya?
**[11:35] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[11:36] Yukimasa**
Y-Yukiya? But a blockhead like him won't—
**[11:40] Yukiya**
I respectfully decline!
**[11:45] Yukiya**
I can't trust myself with
such a weighty responsibility.
**[11:49] Yukiya**
Only today, I slept in, even though
I promised to help with the harvest.
**[11:54] Yukiya**
I'll help in any way I can, but I don't
believe I'd make a fitting companion.
**[12:00] Yukiya**
Please take my eldest brother,
Yukima, instead.
**[12:08] Yukima**
No, I beg you to take Yukiya.
**[12:11] Yukiya**
What?
**[12:12] Yukima**
I have faith that my brother
will not disappoint you.
**[12:15] Yukima**
He works well when he puts his mind to it.
**[12:16] Yukiya**
What are you talking about?
**[12:18] Yukiya**
I just got in everyone's way in the Center!
**[12:21] Yukima**
But you won't tell us anything
about your duties there.
**[12:26] Yukima**
Only that they couldn't
wait to be rid of you.
**[12:29] Yukiya**
Brother!
**[12:33] Yukima**
Sir Sumimaru spent a year with you
and is still asking for your help.
**[12:39] Yukima**
What clearer proof could there be?
**[12:43] Azusa**
Boys, don't forget we have a guest present.
**[12:49] Yukimasa**
I'm sorry you had to see that.
**[12:51] Nazukihiko**
Don't be.
**[12:53] Yukimasa**
I suppose you might find it easier
to work with a familiar face.
**[12:57] Yukimasa**
Set Yukiya to do any odd jobs
you may have for him.
***SIGN*** Sugou, Taruhi
***SIGN*** Koume
**[13:19] Koume**
What did you just say?
**[13:22] Jihei**
Let's bring an end to this.
**[13:25] Jihei**
We can live out in the countryside.
**[13:28] Jihei**
We'll get away from the Center and
run a little shop where no one knows us.
**[13:35] Koume**
You've said that before.
**[13:37] Jihei**
I mean it this time.
***SIGN*** Jihei
**[13:41] Jihei**
I'll turn over a new leaf.
**[13:57] Jihei**
Where are you going?
**[14:00] Koume**
The outhouse.
**[14:30] Yukiya**
Your "kin'u instinct"
was right on the money.
**[14:34] Yukiya**
Or did you know this would happen all along...
**[14:38] Yukiya**
Your Highness?
**[14:44] Nazukihiko**
You must be confused.
**[14:46] Nazukihiko**
His Highness is in the Center,
doing his duty with aplomb.
**[14:50] Nazukihiko**
For the moment, I am merely
his attendant, Sumimaru.
**[14:57] Nazukihiko**
And I haven't come to bring you back.
**[15:00] Nazukihiko**
People will hesitate to answer an outsider
if there are local accomplices.
**[15:07] Nazukihiko**
I would be glad to have you along,
**[15:09] Nazukihiko**
but I won't force you if you refuse.
**[15:14] Nazukihiko**
I learned of the elixir ten days ago.
**[15:18] Nazukihiko**
According to a petition
from the pleasure quarter,
**[15:20] Nazukihiko**
a courtesan was flailing wildly in
raven shape, unable to change back.
**[15:26] Nazukihiko**
An investigation revealed
similar cases throughout the Center.
**[15:32] Nazukihiko**
Then I heard of a man peddling
suspicious medicine in Taruhi.
**[15:40] Nazukihiko**
This is hardly the first drug
used to bring pleasure.
**[15:45] Nazukihiko**
The people of the Ravine
control all the others,
**[15:48] Nazukihiko**
but not even they know
where this one comes from.
**[16:03] Nazukihiko**
A mere few doses destroy both a person's
reason and power to take human shape.
**[16:08] Nazukihiko**
The Center's physicians have devoted
themselves to finding a cure,
**[16:12] Nazukihiko**
but they have yet to discover
any way to reverse the effects.
**[16:18] Nazukihiko**
If we stand idly by while
it spreads through Yamauchi...
**[16:23] Yukiya**
Taruhi and the very existence
of the yatagarasu will be in danger?
**[16:41] Yukimasa**
What happened?
**[16:44] Guard**
He suddenly went berserk.
**[16:50] Yukima**
Did that medicine cause this, too?
**[16:55] Courtesan**
Can I have more?
**[16:58] Dandy**
I don't know. It's awfully rare.
**[17:01] Courtesan**
Have a heart.
**[17:03] Courtesan**
Tell me, what do you call it?
**[17:06] Nazukihiko**
I'm told that in some quarters,
the drug goes by the name...
***SIGN*** Sagecap
***SIGN*** Sagecap
**[17:13] Nazukihiko**
"Sagecap."
**[17:16] Yukiya**
Sagecap.
**[17:35] Shopkeeper**
Sorry. We're out of stock.
**[17:55] Yukimasa**
I sent my men out ahead of you.
**[17:58] Yukimasa**
I am certain you will find them useful.
**[18:02] Nazukihiko**
I am much obliged.
**[18:04] Yukima**
Please don't hesitate to
put my brother to work.
**[18:08] Yukima**
Yukiya, you have an important job.
We're counting on you.
**[18:11] Yukiya**
Yes, brother.
**[18:17] Yukiya**
I'll see you soon.
**[18:52] Nazukihiko**
You're lucky to have
brothers like them, Yukiya.
**[18:57] Yukiya**
Your Highness doesn't play fair.
**[18:59] Nazukihiko**
How so?
**[19:00] Yukiya**
You said you wouldn't force me if I refused,
**[19:03] Yukiya**
but you must have known
I couldn't ignore a threat to Taruhi.
**[19:09] Nazukihiko**
Oh, that's what you mean.
**[19:11] Nazukihiko**
Well, work hard for this place
that means so much to you.
***SIGN*** Sunrise Palace
**[19:36] Sumio**
Blue.
**[19:39] Sumio**
Blue.
**[19:41] Sumio**
Blue. Blue.
**[19:45] Sumio**
You'd better come back soon, Nazukihiko.
***SIGN*** Tamari, Taruhi
**[20:04] Merchant 1**
Ah, I've had it.
**[20:08] Merchant 1**
Damn it all.
**[20:12] Merchant 2**
What's wrong?
**[20:14] Merchant 1**
A customer stood me up.
**[20:17] Merchant 1**
I was supposed to meet
someone from Sugou here.
**[20:21] Merchant 1**
I've been waiting since yesterday.
**[20:29] Yukiya**
No leads here, either.
**[20:31] Nazukihiko**
I wouldn't say that.
**[20:33] Nazukihiko**
We got a description
of our suspected dealer.
**[20:37] Yukiya**
"A thin man of about 40 years of age"?
**[20:41] Yukiya**
Do you have any idea
how many of those there are?
***SIGN*** Sugou
***SIGN*** Mukawa
***SIGN*** Hirai
***SIGN*** Taruhi
***SIGN*** Shiozawa
***SIGN*** Inemura
***SIGN*** Tamari
***SIGN*** Sugou
***SIGN*** Mukawa
***SIGN*** Taruhi
***SIGN*** Shiozawa
***SIGN*** Inemura
***SIGN*** Tamari
***SIGN*** Sugou
***SIGN*** Mukawa
***SIGN*** Taruhi
***SIGN*** Shiozawa
***SIGN*** Inemura
***SIGN*** Tamari
***SIGN*** Nakasato
***SIGN*** Sugou
***SIGN*** Mukawa
***SIGN*** Taruhi
***SIGN*** Shiozawa
***SIGN*** Inemura
***SIGN*** Tamari
***SIGN*** Nakasato
***SIGN*** Sugou
***SIGN*** Mukawa
***SIGN*** Taruhi
***SIGN*** Shiozawa
***SIGN*** Inemura
***SIGN*** Tamari
***SIGN*** m 0 0 l 100 0 100 100 0 100
***SIGN*** Nakasato
**[20:49] Yukiya**
Let me see. The next town is...
**[20:52] Merchant 1**
Gh-Ghost-fire?
**[20:55] Merchant 1**
You mean those lights up in the hills
that lead people astray?
**[20:59] Merchant 3**
Yeah. I saw lights flickering
on the brow of the hill at Sugou.
**[21:07] Merchant 2**
Yup, that's ghost-fire all right.
I hear it's been showing up a lot lately.
**[21:13] Merchant 1**
Stop, both of you!
**[21:15] Merchant 1**
I'm trying to get answers, and you just—
**[21:17] Nazukihiko**
Let me buy you a drink.
**[21:20] Nazukihiko**
In exchange, would you mind
telling me the whole story?
**[21:24] Merchants**
Huh?
**[21:32] Yukiya**
So wait, how did *we* get stuck
delivering this stuff to Sugou?
**[21:36] Nazukihiko**
I got in too deep to back out.
**[21:38] Yukiya**
What good will looking
into ghost-fire do us?
**[21:41] Nazukihiko**
I don't know, but it's another anomaly
in Taruhi at around the same time.
**[21:45] Nazukihiko**
There must be some connection.
**[21:47] Yukiya**
Your "kin'u instinct" again?
**[21:50] Nazukihiko**
Exactly.
**[22:06] Yukiya**
Maybe everyone's out in the fields?
**[22:10] Yukiya**
I know this smell.
**[22:14] Nazukihiko**
Be ready to fly at a moment's notice.
**[24:31] Narrator**
*A grotesque horror reveals itself.*
**[24:36] Narrator**
* The reek of death*
* clings to the small village.*
**[24:42] Narrator**
*A lone girl escaped the slaughter,*
**[24:45] Narrator**
*but is she friend or foe?*
***SIGN*** The Girl
***SIGN*** Who Lived
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "The Girl Who Lived."*
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E15 - The Girl Who Lived
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G4VUWKK7D/the-girl-who-lived)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:35] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[00:35] Nazukihiko**
Stay back!
**[00:50] Yukiya**
A monkey?
**[00:53] Nazukihiko**
Don't let your guard down.
**[01:17] Yukiya**
Your Highness...
**[01:20] Yukiya**
What happened here?
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[03:26] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[03:29] Yukiya**
This one's alive!
**[03:31] Yukiya**
I think he's hurt.
**[03:33] Yukiya**
He needs treatment before...
**[03:35] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya!
**[03:36] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[03:40] Yukiya**
L-Let go!
**[03:57] Nazukihiko**
Unbelievable. You still
have room in your belly?
**[04:02] Nazukihiko**
Then, eat.
**[04:04] Nazukihiko**
But you'll pay for this meal with your life.
**[04:07] Yukiya**
Oh, come on!
**[04:30] Yukiya**
How did a monkey turn into a person?
**[04:35] Nazukihiko**
They can take human shape,
but they may not understand our speech.
**[04:41] Nazukihiko**
I warned him the meal
would cost him his life,
**[04:44] Nazukihiko**
but he didn't even hesitate.
**[04:47] Yukiya**
Wh-What if he really *had* eaten me?
**[04:50] Nazukihiko**
I saved you in time, didn't I?
**[04:57] Nazukihiko**
We'll check the other houses.
**[05:22] Yukiya**
Did they really get the whole village?
**[06:01] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya.
**[06:01] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[06:09] Yukiya**
Sh-She might be a monkey, too.
**[06:11] Nazukihiko**
No, she's a yatagarasu.
**[06:14] Nazukihiko**
I have no power to harm her.
**[06:19] Yukiya**
Come again?
**[06:53] Yukima**
Father went out to search the countryside.
He won't be back until tomorrow.
**[06:58] Yukima**
Where's Sir Sumimaru?
**[06:59] Yukiya**
He just took his leave.
**[07:01] Yukiya**
To bring help from the Center, he said.
**[07:03] Yukima**
We could certainly use some.
**[07:05] Yukichi**
Hey, is this girl okay?
**[07:08] Yukichi**
She's been asleep this whole time.
**[07:11] Yukima**
The physician said
we shouldn't start worrying yet.
**[07:16] Yukima**
So no one else survived, huh?
**[07:19] Yukima**
Poor girl.
**[07:22] Yukiya**
I wonder.
**[07:25] Yukiya**
The whole village was slaughtered,
but she doesn't have a scratch on her.
**[07:30] Yukima**
Maybe she got lucky.
**[07:32] Yukiya**
"Lucky"?
**[07:35] Yukiya**
You wouldn't talk about luck
if you'd seen that place.
**[07:40] Yukiya**
Sorry.
**[07:41] Yukima**
No, you're right.
**[07:45] Yukima**
We still can't prove she's not a monkey.
**[07:49] Yukima**
You've had a rough day.
**[07:51] Yukima**
I'll stay awake tonight. You get some rest.
**[08:38] Sumio**
That sounds like...
***SIGN*** The Court
**[08:45] Gatekeeper 1**
A post bell?
**[08:57] Nazukihiko**
Urgent tidings!
**[08:58] Nazukihiko**
Disaster has struck Taruhi in the North!
**[09:00] Nazukihiko**
Open the gates!
**[09:06] Sumio**
I sent word to the Four Houses.
**[09:08] Sumio**
I told them to assemble in Purple Hall.
In their nightgowns if they have to.
**[09:13] Nazukihiko**
Much appreciated.
**[09:14] Sumio**
I'm sure they'll grumble about it, though.
**[09:17] Sumio**
So...
**[09:18] Sumio**
What's in this thing? It's heavy as hell.
**[09:22] Nazukihiko**
Smelling salts. They'll wake
our drowsy ministers right up.
**[09:34] Nazukihiko**
Will you still speak of "tall tales"
after seeing this?
**[09:41] Nazukihiko**
This mouth... These very fangs
devoured a whole village of yatagarasu.
**[09:50] Akira**
I... I can't believe it.
***SIGN*** Lord of the West
Akira
**[09:52] Akira**
Monkeys that feed on yatagarasu?
**[09:55] Akira**
Where in Yamauchi did
such creatures come from?
**[09:58] Toru**
We can see the monkeys exist,
whether you believe in them or not.
***SIGN*** Lord of the South
Toru
**[10:04] Toru**
Whatever happens,
they must not reach the Center.
***SIGN*** Lord of the East
Haruhito
**[10:07] Toru**
I suggest we bar the road to Taruhi at once.
**[10:10] Genya**
Our enemies are monkeys.
***SIGN*** Lord of the North
Genya
**[10:12] Genya**
What would blocking
our roads do to stop them?
**[10:16] Nazukihiko**
These monkeys can take
human shape, just like yatagarasu.
**[10:24] Haruhito**
Then, could they already be among us?
**[10:27] Nazukihiko**
Lord Genya.
**[10:28] Genya**
Your Highness.
**[10:29] Nazukihiko**
Prepare to dispatch troops at once.
**[10:32] Nazukihiko**
I wish you to join Taruhi's lord
in scouring the countryside.
**[10:38] Nazukihiko**
The monkeys have the advantage in
close combat. Have bows and spears ready.
**[10:42] Genya**
As you wish.
**[10:43] Nazukihiko**
Strengthen the guard on all checkpoints.
**[10:45] Nazukihiko**
Investigate anyone who seems
even remotely suspect.
**[10:48] Nazukihiko**
Inspect isolated villages for
disturbances like what befell Sugou
**[10:53] Nazukihiko**
in every domain and without delay!
**[10:56] Akira; Toru; Genya Haruhito**
Yes, Your Highness.
**[10:57] Nazukihiko**
Assume that these monkeys may come
to eat your wives and children tomorrow.
**[11:03] Nazukihiko**
This is no Northern crisis.
**[11:07] Nazukihiko**
It threatens the whole of Yamauchi.
**[11:13] Crowd**
Don't push.
**[11:15] Crowd**
Hurry up.
***SIGN*** Taruhi Checkpoint
**[11:21] Crowd**
Wait your turn.
**[11:25] Official**
Okay, next!
**[11:26] Merchant**
Here, sir.
**[11:27] Traveler 1**
I hear they're ten shaku tall
and swallow grown men whole.
**[11:32] Traveler 2**
Word is they've got a hundred fangs.
**[11:34] Traveler 3**
First, it's that big, mad raven, and now this.
**[11:37] Traveler 3**
I'm too scared to stay in this town.
**[11:45] Koume**
How many times do I have to tell you?
I don't know anything.
**[11:50] Koume**
Why am I even tied up in a cell, anyway?
**[11:54] Koume**
What are you accusing me of?
**[11:57] Guard 1**
Enough chatter.
**[11:58] Guard 1**
Just answer our questions.
**[12:02] Guard 2**
What were you doing, sleeping in that chest?
**[12:05] Koume**
I *told* you...
**[12:06] Yukima**
Koume, isn't it?
**[12:09] Yukima**
We wouldn't restrain you
if we didn't have to.
**[12:14] Yukima**
We'll release you as soon as we can prove
you're a yatagarasu and you mean no harm.
**[12:21] Koume**
Huh?
**[12:22] Koume**
What do you mean "prove I'm a yatagarasu"?
**[12:26] Koume**
What else could I be?
**[12:28] Koume**
And who would I "mean harm" to?
**[12:31] Yukima**
Are you from Sugou?
**[12:34] Koume**
I'm from the Center.
**[12:36] Koume**
I'd never been to Sugou before.
**[12:38] Yukima**
What brought you there from the Center?
**[12:40] Koume**
Business.
**[12:42] Koume**
My dad and I brought sake.
**[12:45] Koume**
They threw a big party
as soon as we got there.
**[12:49] Yukima**
Your father was with you?
**[12:53] Koume**
Yes.
**[12:55] Yukima**
And your mother?
**[12:56] Koume**
Haven't got one.
**[12:58] Koume**
It's always been just my dad and me,
two traveling merchants.
**[13:04] Koume**
Hey, has my dad caused
some kind of trouble again?
**[13:08] Koume**
So you know, I have nothing—
**[13:10] Guard 2**
Where is your father now?
**[13:12] Koume**
I *told* you, I got drunk and fell asleep!
**[13:16] Koume**
Ask one of the villagers where to find him.
**[13:19] Yukiya**
The villagers of Sugou
are no longer with us.
**[13:23] Koume**
What?
**[13:25] Koume**
They died?
**[13:27] Yukiya**
Yes.
**[13:28] Yukiya**
Vicious monkeys attacked them.
**[13:31] Koume**
Monkeys? Don't you mean bears or something?
**[13:35] Yukiya**
Monkeys.
**[13:36] Yukiya**
We're still searching for survivors
while we comb the countryside,
**[13:40] Yukiya**
but you're probably the only one
who left that village alive.
**[13:48] Koume**
W-Wait.
**[13:50] Koume**
Is... Is my dad all right?
**[13:53] Yukima**
Right now, we only know that he's missing.
**[13:57] Koume**
No.
**[13:59] Koume**
Why?
**[14:01] Koume**
How did this happen?
**[14:02] Yukiya**
I can't understand it, either.
**[14:04] Yukiya**
Why were you spared
when everyone else died?
**[14:10] Koume**
I haven't got a clue.
**[14:14] Koume**
How *would* I know that?
**[14:33] Guard 1**
That girl's got some rotten luck.
**[14:37] Guard 1**
She and her father picked
a hell of a time to visit Sugou.
**[14:41] Guard 2**
I bet her father hid her in that chest,
hoping it would save her.
**[14:46] Guard 1**
That was probably the last thing he did.
**[14:49] Yukima**
Will she be released?
**[14:52] Guard 1**
She was able to take raven shape,
so I don't see why not.
**[14:57] Guard 1**
But with no family left, how will
she support herself back in the Center?
**[15:05] Azusa**
Excuse me.
**[15:08] Azusa**
In that case...
**[15:13] Azusa**
We've decided to take Koume in
until we find her father.
**[15:18] Azusa**
She may not be here long,
but be kind to her.
**[15:22] Koume**
I'll help with anything I can.
**[15:25] Koume**
I hope you'll all put up with me.
**[15:56] Azusa**
What's gotten into you, Yukiya?
**[15:59] Azusa**
How is she supposed to settle in
with you watching her like a hawk?
**[16:04] Yukiya**
I can't help questioning
your judgment, Mother.
**[16:09] Azusa**
Really? Why?
**[16:13] Yukiya**
How can you be sure
she's telling the truth?
**[16:16] Yukiya**
The villagers who could
confirm her story are all dead.
**[16:20] Yukiya**
Everyone pities her as a girl
on her own with a missing father,
**[16:25] Yukiya**
but I get the feeling
she's hiding something.
**[16:28] Yukiya**
How could you let a yatagarasu
we know so little about into the house?
**[16:33] Azusa**
Even if she has her secrets,
**[16:35] Azusa**
I can't abandon a child to fend for herself.
**[16:39] Yukiya**
A child?
**[16:40] Azusa**
Yes, a child. Just like you.
**[16:46] Azusa**
All right. How about this?
**[16:48] Azusa**
*You* look after that girl.
**[16:51] Yukiya**
Excuse me?
**[16:53] Azusa**
Who better? You're almost the same age.
**[16:58] Azusa**
It will give her someone to talk to.
**[17:00] Yukiya**
Mother!
**[17:04] Azusa**
It will do more good than
glaring at her from afar and fretting.
***SIGN*** Clear Mirror Temple
**[17:22] Rokon**
Have you learned anything, Lord Natsuka?
***SIGN*** Clear Mirror Temple's
Natsuka
**[17:26] Natsuka**
No. This is the strangest incident
in Yamauchi's history.
**[17:30] Natsuka**
I have never heard of any creature
but us taking human shape.
**[17:35] Rokon**
So long story short, we Yatagarasu
aren't as unique as we thought, huh?
***SIGN*** Natsuka's bodyguard
Rokon
**[17:42] Rokon**
Not that I'd know much about it.
**[18:04] Yukimasa**
As we feared, no one from Sugou survived.
**[18:08] Yukimasa**
They ate all the women
and children on the spot.
**[18:12] Yukimasa**
The men, though, they rounded up and
shredded, tossing the chunks into big pots...
**[18:20] Yukimasa**
and pouring salt over them.
**[18:23] Yukichi**
Salt? What for?
**[18:26] Yukima**
Food preservation.
**[18:29] Yukima**
They salted the leftover meat
to save it for later.
**[18:35] Azusa**
And the merchant visiting Sugou?
**[18:39] Yukimasa**
We couldn't tell the bodies apart.
**[18:45] Yukima**
But how did it happen?
**[18:46] Yukima**
No matter how vicious these monkeys were,
how did not a single adult escape?
**[18:52] Yukimasa**
We found the remains of a village party.
**[18:56] Yukimasa**
Maybe the food was laced with
some drug that slowed them down.
**[19:03] Yukiya**
They're intelligent.
**[19:08] Yukiya**
Normal animals don't drug
people's food or salt meat to last longer.
**[19:18] Yukiya**
They didn't do this just to fill their
bellies. They have another goal.
**[19:24] Yukiya**
They smile at the sight of frightened prey.
Prey they toy with as they kill.
**[19:30] Yukiya**
They're hunting yatagarasu for sport.
**[19:56] Shabby Man**
I heard something
I thought you'd want to know.
**[20:02] Shabby Man**
It wasn't easy getting this news.
**[20:07] Shabby Man**
I can't give it up for less than—
**[20:14] Shabby Man**
It's about S-Sagecap!
**[20:36] Yukiya**
Here.
**[20:39] Koume**
Thank you.
**[20:47] Koume**
Do you need anything else?
**[20:50] Yukiya**
I'm sorry about the other day.
**[20:54] Yukiya**
I shouldn't have asked that
when you'd been through so much.
**[20:58] Koume**
It's fine.
**[20:59] Koume**
I can't blame you for suspecting me,
under the circumstances.
**[21:09] Koume**
Hey, what are you glaring at me for?
**[21:11] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[21:13] Koume**
There. That look.
**[21:15] Koume**
You'd think I was your archenemy
the way you keep eyeing me all day long.
**[21:20] Koume**
Did I do something to offend you?
**[21:23] Yukiya**
No, it's nothing like that.
**[21:28] Yukiya**
Sorry if I bothered you.
**[21:30] Yukiya**
I didn't want to leave you alone
after all you've been through.
**[21:36] Yukiya**
But that was no excuse to be rude.
**[21:39] Yukiya**
I, well, wasn't sure how
to talk to a girl my own age.
**[21:49] Koume**
Oh, really?
**[21:51] Koume**
You know, her ladyship asked me...
**[21:54] Koume**
if I'd like to stay and
work here permanently.
**[21:57] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[21:58] Koume**
Only if they don't find my dad, obviously.
**[22:04] Koume**
But I didn't give her a clear answer.
**[22:08] Koume**
I mean, I thought you
hated having me around.
**[22:18] Koume**
That's a load off my mind.
**[22:21] Koume**
I might be living under your roof
for a long time to come.
**[22:25] Koume**
So again, I hope you'll put up with me.
**[22:30] Koume**
Okay, Yukiya?
**[22:35] Yukiya**
Likewise.
**[22:50] Tobi**
You sly bastard.
***SIGN*** Tobi
**[22:53] Tobi**
Wherever you hide, I swear I'll find you.
**[24:30] Narrator**
*At long last, Yukiya returns to the Center,*
**[24:33] Narrator**
* but he doesn't have long for reunions*
* as he hurries to the Prince's side.*
**[24:42] Narrator**
* In a forest flickering with ghost-fire,*
* a boy witnesses a mysterious power.*
***SIGN*** Wisteria
***SIGN*** Arrows
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "Wisteria Arrows."*
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E16 - Wisteria Arrows
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G14UVQQPZ/wisteria-arrows)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[02:08] Koume**
Wow!
**[02:09] Koume**
I've never flown this high before!
**[02:12] Yukiya**
Don't lean over like that. It's not safe.
**[02:15] Koume**
I hear you used to serve the Prince.
**[02:18] Yukiya**
What about it?
**[02:20] Koume**
Tell me about the palace.
**[02:22] Koume**
I've always admired court ravens.
**[02:26] Koume**
Are you going to stop by
to say hello? If you are—
**[02:30] Yukiya**
I'm going nowhere near the palace.
**[02:33] Yukiya**
We'll pick up some spare clothes from
your house, then head straight home.
**[02:37] Koume**
You're no fun.
***SIGN*** Lower Town Harbor, the Center
**[02:52] Yukiya**
That's outrageous!
**[02:54] Inn Staff**
It's the standard rate here.
Go someplace else if you don't like it.
**[02:57] Yukiya**
Aw, come on. Can't you
cut me some kind of deal?
**[03:02] Yukiya**
I only need to leave him for an hour.
**[03:04] Inn Staff**
I said no, and I mean no.
**[03:05] Yukiya**
Please?
**[03:11] Yukiya**
Fine. Here.
**[03:12] Inn Staff**
Come again.
**[03:17] Yukiya**
And they wonder why
I can't stand the Center.
**[03:20] Yukiya**
Sorry to keep you waiting...
**[03:31] Yukiya**
Seriously?
**[04:09] Yukiya**
Koume.
**[04:12] Yukiya**
Are you okay?
**[04:14] Koume**
I had this feeling that
my dad had come back.
**[04:21] Koume**
I feel so stupid.
**[04:28] Koume**
We've been water peddlers for generations.
**[04:31] Yukiya**
You sold water?
**[04:34] Koume**
Not just any water.
**[04:36] Koume**
Some springs on the Central Mountain
have special attributes.
**[04:42] Koume**
That well is one of them.
**[04:45] Koume**
The water from it can cure illnesses
and make crops grow.
**[04:49] Koume**
It's sold as medicine out
in the countryside.
**[04:54] Koume**
And it doesn't cost anything to make,
**[04:57] Koume**
so, well, we made out like bandits.
**[05:02] Koume**
Until one day, out of
the blue, the well ran dry.
**[05:08] Yukiya**
Shh!
**[05:09] Koume**
Huh?
**[05:19] Yukiya**
Who are you?
**[05:20] Man 1**
Back off, brat.
We've got business with the girl.
**[05:24] Koume**
Bill collectors?
Sorry, but we've got nothing left.
**[05:28] Koume**
So get out.
**[05:30] Man 2**
Sorry if we startled you.
**[05:32] Man 2**
We're Jihei's buddies.
**[05:35] Man 2**
He asked us to come get you.
**[05:39] Koume**
You know my dad?
**[05:40] Man 2**
Yup.
**[05:42] Koume**
Why didn't he come himself?
**[05:45] Man 2**
Oh, you know. Things happen.
Do I need to remind you what his job is?
**[05:55] Man 2**
Come on. We'll take you to him.
**[05:58] Yukiya**
Are you really friends of Koume's father?
**[06:02] Yukiya**
I have a duty to keep her safe.
**[06:05] Yukiya**
I can't leave her with people I can't trust.
**[06:08] Man 2**
"Duty"?
**[06:11] Man 1**
Don't make this harder
than it has to be, kid.
**[06:14] Koume**
Okay, fine. But at least
let me put my sandals on.
**[06:17] Man 1**
Make it quick!
**[06:18] Koume**
I know!
**[06:19] Yukiya**
Wait!
**[06:21] Yukiya**
Give her back!
**[06:24] Man 1**
You little punk!
**[06:29] Man 1**
Take that!
**[06:35] Man 2**
You little...
**[06:36] Koume**
Yukiya!
**[06:38] Yukiya**
Hurry!
**[06:44] Man 1**
I'll teach you to waste our time, brat.
**[06:48] Man 1**
Now, what are we gonna do with you?
**[06:52] Koume**
That boy waits on His Highness the Prince!
**[06:55] Man 1**
Did you say the Prince?
**[06:59] Koume**
And he's a proper court raven himself.
**[07:02] Koume**
Leave a scratch on him,
and you'll all pay for it big time.
**[07:08] Man 2**
Is that true?
**[07:10] Yukiya**
It's true that I served the Prince.
**[07:16] Man 2**
Let him go.
**[07:20] Koume**
Yukiya!
**[07:21] Man 2**
Boy, take this message to the Prince:
**[07:24] Man 2**
"Tobi of the Underground
will be in touch soon."
**[07:28] Man 2**
"When he finds you, you'd better have
a good excuse for breaking our agreement."
**[07:34] Yukiya**
What "agreement"?
**[07:39] Koume**
I can't take it anymore.
**[07:42] Koume**
My dad must have made another mess.
**[07:45] Yukiya**
What kind of "mess"?
**[07:48] Koume**
I don't know!
**[07:50] Koume**
I've had it with him! He always
leaves me to clean up after him.
**[07:55] Koume**
I hope that good-for-nothing
never comes back!
**[07:59] Koume**
This was my chance to
make a fresh start in Taruhi.
**[08:05] Yukiya**
What a way to talk.
**[08:08] Yukiya**
Aren't you worried about your father?
**[08:13] Yukiya**
Do you think about anyone but yourself?
**[08:16] Yukiya**
What about the monkeys?
Who knows when they'll be back?
**[08:20] Yukiya**
All of Taruhi is in danger.
**[08:22] Yukiya**
But just listen to you.
**[08:26] Koume**
Who are you to judge?
**[08:28] Koume**
You're just a spoiled little rich boy!
**[08:31] Yukiya**
What would you know about me?
**[08:34] Koume**
My dad's been sponging off me since forever!
**[08:38] Koume**
He clung to his dried-up well until
my mom gave up on him and left us!
**[08:44] Koume**
So I worked.
**[08:46] Koume**
A kid can't bring in much money,
**[08:50] Koume**
but I still stuck it out
from dawn until dusk.
**[08:54] Koume**
And he wasted what little I'd earned
on gambling and get-rich-quick schemes.
**[09:01] Koume**
"Sorry. I know I'll hit it big next time."
**[09:06] Koume**
I want out of this hell.
**[09:09] Koume**
Can you blame me for feeling that way?
**[09:12] Koume**
You could *never* understand! You grew up
with both parents and a loving family!
***SIGN*** Sunrise Palace
**[09:37] Sumio**
Hey, Yukiya. Long time no see.
**[09:41] Yukiya**
Sumio! It's good to see you again.
**[09:45] Yukiya**
Listen, I...
**[09:49] Sumio**
First things first. Come in.
**[09:55] Sumio**
I've already heard.
**[09:58] Sumio**
Is the girl safe?
**[09:59] Yukiya**
Yes. I left her with the Yamauchi Guard.
**[10:04] Yukiya**
I'm sorry to trouble you.
**[10:07] Sumio**
Don't mention it.
**[10:08] Sumio**
You'd better start by
reporting to Nazukihiko.
**[10:12] Sumio**
Your Highness.
**[10:15] Sumio**
I've brought Yukiya.
**[10:24] Yukiya**
Forgive me for interrupting
the business of state.
**[10:27] Yukiya**
I bring news Your Highness
will wish to hear.
**[10:31] Yukiya**
A blunder on my part caused...
**[10:39] Hamayu**
What stunt did you pull this time?
**[10:42] Yukiya**
L-Lady Hamayu?
**[10:47] Hamayu**
I step in to handle official duties
for a bit during the daytime.
***SIGN*** The Prince's Wife
Hamayu
**[10:51] Hamayu**
Think of me as a body double.
**[10:54] Yukiya**
A body double?
**[10:56] Yukiya**
Then, where's His Highness?
**[10:59] Hamayu**
Did you really think he would stay put
in the palace with this crisis going on?
**[11:03] Yukiya**
You have a point.
**[11:05] Hamayu**
Anyway, take it easy.
**[11:06] Hamayu**
Want a snack?
**[11:08] Yukiya**
Lady Hamayu.
**[11:10] Yukiya**
Oh, wait! We haven't got time!
**[11:17] Hamayu**
Tobi of the Underground?
**[11:21] Hamayu**
Talk about a big shot.
**[11:25] Hamayu**
If he's involved,
the "agreement" must be...
**[11:29] Sumio**
The non-aggression pact. I'm sure of it.
**[11:34] Yukiya**
I'm sorry, but what non-aggression pact?
**[11:37] Hamayu**
The court and the Ravine
have a secret treaty.
**[11:40] Yukiya**
A secret treaty?
**[11:42] Hamayu**
Ever been to the Ravine?
**[11:44] Yukiya**
For about a month.
As collateral for the Prince's sword.
**[11:48] Hamayu**
Collateral?
**[11:53] Yukiya**
I thought I'd never make it out of there.
**[11:56] Hamayu**
Sounds like you had a hell of a time.
**[12:01] Hamayu**
But it used to be even worse
a long time ago.
**[12:05] Hamayu**
It was a real lawless zone.
Nothing but bloody turf wars, day in, day out.
**[12:11] Hamayu**
Then one day, a man appeared out of the blue
and set up shop in the Underground.
**[12:17] Yukiya**
Where's that?
**[12:19] Hamayu**
Down past the Ravine. It's where
wanted men go when they're out of options.
**[12:26] Hamayu**
This man took charge of them all
in the blink of an eye,
**[12:30] Hamayu**
then unified the Ravine
from his base in the Underground.
**[12:34] Yukiya**
How?
**[12:35] Hamayu**
Search me.
**[12:37] Hamayu**
He must have been awfully smart
or awfully tough.
**[12:43] Hamayu**
With reverence, they called him:
**[12:49] Hamayu**
"King Saku."
**[12:51] Yukiya**
"King Saku"?
**[12:54] Hamayu**
He organized the ruffians into
a band that follows its own laws,
**[12:59] Hamayu**
and made the criminal underworld
its own society with clear borders.
**[13:03] Hamayu**
Nazukihiko's grandfather sat
on the Kin'u's throne at the time.
**[13:09] Sumio**
He was known as a wise ruler, wasn't he?
**[13:12] Hamayu**
Do you mind the smell?
**[13:13] Hamayu**
My mind works better when I drink.
**[13:16] Sumio**
No.
**[13:17] Hamayu**
The Kin'u and King Saku met as equals
and reached an agreement.
**[13:23] Hamayu**
They would each govern their own territory
and stay out of each other's affairs.
**[13:29] Yukiya**
Hence the nonaggression pact.
**[13:32] Hamayu**
It's been 40 or 50 years since then.
**[13:36] Hamayu**
Tobi replaced King Saku,
but no one broke the pact.
**[13:42] Hamayu**
You could call it the secret that's
keeping the peace in Yamauchi.
***SIGN*** Yamauchi Guard Post
**[13:58] Hamayu**
This Jihei character must have done
something to rile up the Ravine.
**[14:04] Hamayu**
But he went missing, so they've
resorted to kidnapping his daughter.
**[14:11] Hamayu**
But they hit a snag when
the daughter brought up the Prince.
**[14:17] Yukiya**
I beg your forgiveness!
**[14:22] Yukiya**
If only I hadn't brought Koume here.
**[14:24] Sumio**
You only did what your father told you to do.
**[14:28] Yukiya**
I was simply careless.
**[14:31] Yukiya**
I should have been more vigilant.
**[14:33] Hamayu**
Yukiya, have you been suspicious
of that girl all along?
**[14:42] Yukiya**
Koume's hiding something.
**[14:44] Yukiya**
I've felt so from the start.
**[14:47] Yukiya**
But I have no proof, so I can't rebut
anyone who says I'm overthinking things.
**[14:55] Yukiya**
Still, she might have known what
using the Prince's name would mean.
**[15:03] Hamayu**
Yukiya.
**[15:05] Hamayu**
Would you mind leaving that girl with me?
**[15:07] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[15:12] Yukiya**
This is an aide's sash.
**[15:14] Hamayu**
I want you to go fetch Nazukihiko.
**[15:18] Hamayu**
That will get you through checkpoints.
**[15:20] Yukiya**
R-Right.
**[15:21] Hamayu**
Hold onto it for a while.
**[15:23] Hamayu**
Unless you want the gatekeepers
to challenge you every time you visit.
**[15:29] Sumio**
Don't worry about Taruhi.
**[15:31] Sumio**
I'll fill them in on your situation.
**[15:33] Yukiya**
What? Excuse me?
**[15:35] Hamayu**
Well, there you have it.
**[15:40] Hamayu**
Welcome back, Yukiya.
***SIGN*** Shigure, the North
**[16:17] Yukiya**
Why does this feel familiar?
**[16:34] Yukiya**
Ghost-fire?
**[16:47] Yukiya**
His Highness?
**[17:19] Yukiya**
Y-Your Highness!
**[17:22] Nazukihiko**
What are you doing here?
**[17:25] Yukiya**
Lady Hamayu asked me to fetch you.
**[17:29] Yukiya**
Anyway, what *was* that?
**[17:34] Nazukihiko**
I'm patching tears.
**[17:36] Yukiya**
T-Tears?
**[17:38] Nazukihiko**
Tears in the boundary that separates
Yamauchi from the world outside.
**[17:43] Yukiya**
Outside Yamauchi?
**[18:20] Nazukihiko**
All done.
**[18:24] Yukiya**
What did you do?
**[18:28] Nazukihiko**
I reinforced the boundary,
although it won't hold forever.
**[18:32] Nazukihiko**
Think of tears as places where
Yamauchi's boundary has weakened.
**[18:37] Nazukihiko**
No yatagarasu who leaves
through one can ever return.
**[18:45] Yukiya**
Is *this* what you do when
you disappear sometimes?
**[18:50] Nazukihiko**
That's right.
**[18:52] Nazukihiko**
I thought the monkeys might have
slipped in from the outside world.
**[18:57] Nazukihiko**
But the boundary was only frayed.
Its defenses hadn't been breached.
**[19:04] Nazukihiko**
So where did those monkeys come from?
**[19:09] Nazukihiko**
Tears expose Yamauchi to danger.
**[19:13] Nazukihiko**
Only I can mend them.
**[19:16] Nazukihiko**
I'm charged with only one duty:
safeguarding all yatagarasu.
**[19:30] Yukiya**
As a true kin'u?
***SIGN*** Cherry Blossom Palace
**[19:51] Lady-in-waiting**
First, let's do something about your kimono.
**[19:55] Lady-in-waiting**
You need proper clothes for court service.
**[19:57] Koume**
R-Right.
**[20:00] Kikuno**
What is Lady Hamayu thinking?
**[20:03] Kikuno**
Keeping a girl with such a troubled
past at court gives me chills.
**[20:08] Masuho**
I am sure Hamayu has her reasons.
**[20:12] Masuho**
And do not blame the girl
for her father's crimes.
**[20:16] Masuho**
We should show her hospitality.
**[20:25] Hamayu**
Tobi sent an invitation.
**[20:33] Sumio**
He must have written it
after Koume mentioned you.
**[20:36] Sumio**
Those Underground guys always work fast.
**[20:41] Sumio**
What now, Nazukihiko?
**[20:44] Nazukihiko**
I'm going, of course.
**[20:45] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[20:47] Nazukihiko**
We need to focus on our monkey problem.
**[20:50] Nazukihiko**
This is no time for feuding
with the Underground.
**[20:52] Nazukihiko**
In fact, I relish this opportunity.
**[20:58] Nazukihiko**
Only Koume survived the
monkey attack on that village.
**[21:03] Nazukihiko**
Now the Underground wants her.
I doubt it's a coincidence.
**[21:08] Nazukihiko**
The Underground holds clues.
**[21:10] Hamayu**
What makes you so sure?
**[21:13] Nazukihiko**
My kin'u instinct.
**[21:18] Natsuka**
Nazukihiko!
**[21:31] Natsuka**
Would you really go to
the Underground yourself?
**[21:34] Nazukihiko**
So you overheard, Brother? That saves time.
**[21:38] Natsuka**
Reconsider.
**[21:40] Natsuka**
Think about what will happen
if they take you hostage.
**[21:43] Natsuka**
The court would be bound hand and foot.
**[21:47] Sumio**
Sorry, but I'm against it, too.
**[21:49] Sumio**
I'm not confident I can keep
you safe down there.
**[21:51] Nazukihiko**
I'm going. There's no other way.
**[21:54] Natsuka**
Nazukihiko!
**[21:56] Nazukihiko**
It will all work out.
You both worry too much.
**[22:11] Nazukihiko**
Yes, Rokon?
**[22:13] Rokon**
To be honest, I don't give a damn
if you end up as sashimi. Still...
**[22:20] Natsuka**
I refuse to let you go to the Underground.
**[22:24] Natsuka**
In your place...
**[22:27] Natsuka**
We'll send Yukiya.
**[22:29] Yukiya**
Huh?
***SIGN*** The Ravine
***SIGN*** The Underground
**[24:30] Narrator**
* Deep beneath the Ravine,*
* scoundrels gather.*
**[24:38] Narrator**
* Yukiya and Natsuka go to parley with them,*
* seeking knowledge of the monkeys.*
**[24:44] Narrator**
*Then, a strange old man steps forward.*
***SIGN*** King of the
***SIGN*** Underground
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "King of the Underground."*
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E17 - King of the Underground
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GJWUQNN1P/king-of-the-underground)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:05] Nazukihiko**
Rokon?
**[00:07] Rokon**
To be honest, I don't give a damn
if you end up as sashimi. Still...
**[00:12] Nazukihiko**
Sumio.
**[00:14] Sumio**
Sorry, but I'm against it, too.
**[00:16] Sumio**
I'm not confident I can keep
you safe down there.
**[00:19] Natsuka**
I refuse to let you go to the Underground.
**[00:22] Natsuka**
In your place...
**[00:24] Natsuka**
We'll send Yukiya.
**[00:26] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[00:28] Yukiya**
H-Hang on. They asked
to see His Highness, remember?
**[00:32] Yukiya**
They won't be too happy
if I turn up in his place.
**[00:34] Sumio**
I agree. Yukiya can't fill
His Highness's shoes—
**[00:38] Natsuka**
Of course he can't.
**[00:40] Natsuka**
*I* will represent Nazukihiko.
**[00:43] Natsuka**
Yukiya will accompany me.
**[00:46] Hamayu**
I doubt you can placate the
Underground as easily as you think.
**[00:50] Natsuka**
The eldest son of the Royal House
should satisfy their self-esteem.
**[00:54] Natsuka**
And I'll have Yukiya in case of trouble.
**[00:59] Natsuka**
They are wary of the Northern House
and the soldiers it controls.
**[01:10] Nazukihiko**
Brother.
**[01:14] Yukiya**
So *that's* why you want to
take me to the Underground?
**[01:20] Natsuka**
Precisely. The Underground
holds clues to the monkeys,
**[01:24] Natsuka**
but they won't give up that information
simply because we ask nicely.
**[01:29] Natsuka**
The Lord of the North's grandson will
give us a strong hand. One they can't beat.
**[01:38] Natsuka**
You want to protect your home, yes?
**[01:41] Natsuka**
Well, I want to defend Yamauchi.
**[01:44] Natsuka**
I will do whatever I must to keep it safe,
**[01:47] Natsuka**
even if it means being branded
a coward or giving up my life.
**[01:53] Natsuka**
Yukiya, don't you feel the same?
**[02:19] Yukiya**
I hear and obey.
**[02:24] Yukiya**
Allow me to accompany
your lordship to the Underground.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Clear Mirror Temple
**[04:11] Masuho**
Just as I thought.
**[04:13] Masuho**
My little brother's clothes
fit you perfectly.
**[04:15] Yukiya**
Thank you. I can't believe a lady of
the West would dress me personally.
***SIGN*** Lady-in-Waiting of
Cherry Blossom Palace
Masuho-no-Susuki
**[04:21] Masuho**
I renounced that title.
**[04:23] Yukiya**
Oh, sorry. Slip of the tongue.
**[04:25] Kikuno**
And no wonder.
**[04:27] Kikuno**
I couldn't believe my ears
***SIGN*** Western Lady-in-Waiting
Kikuno
**[04:30] Kikuno**
when Lady Masuho-no-Susuki declared
her intention to wait on Lady Hamayu.
**[04:35] Masuho**
I merely felt that no one else
would be up to the task.
**[04:39] Masuho**
There. All done.
**[04:41] Kikuno**
What shall we do with this?
**[04:46] Masuho**
You haven't come of age, yet you're
dressed like you're going off to die.
**[04:51] Masuho**
Doesn't that bother you?
**[04:53] Yukiya**
Please don't worry. I made up my own mind.
**[05:01] Rokon**
That's the spirit!
**[05:04] Rokon**
I was worried you'd start whining about
not wanting to go, in spite of everything.
**[05:11] Rokon**
Hm?
**[05:12] Rokon**
You don't have any headgear yet?
**[05:17] Rokon**
Then, I'll do the honors. Any complaints?
**[05:22] Yukiya**
No. None whatsoever.
**[05:27] Masuho**
Kikuno.
**[05:29] Kikuno**
O-Oh, of course!
Sir Yukiya needs a dress sword.
**[05:35] Kikuno**
I'll be right back.
**[05:37] Rokon**
Sure seems like a hassle.
**[05:47] Yukiya**
Um...
**[05:48] Rokon**
The monkeys hit the North again.
**[05:50] Yukiya**
What?
**[05:51] Rokon**
A solitary house in Sazaki. We were late finding out,
but they probably struck there before Sugou.
**[05:57] Rokon**
We might have been able to do something
if we'd caught on sooner.
**[06:06] Yukiya**
Why only the North?
**[06:09] Rokon**
Today's meeting will probably fail.
***SIGN*** Sunrise Palace
**[06:28] Sumio**
Your Highness.
**[06:29] Sumio**
May I open the door?
This business seems urgent.
**[06:35] Sumio**
Your Highness, are you listening?
**[06:41] Sumio**
I beg your pardon.
**[06:45] Sumio**
Nazukihiko.
**[06:49] Sumio**
Get over it already.
**[06:52] Sumio**
You know I didn't *want* to go against you—
**[06:55] Hamayu**
Oh, be quiet. He's got good reason to sulk.
**[06:59] Hamayu**
First, he got left behind, and now,
you won't let him out of your sight.
**[07:03] Sumio**
If I may, His Highness never dreams up
anything good in this mood.
**[07:08] Sumio**
You can't imagine how many times
I learned that the hard way.
**[07:11] Masuho**
Why are you dithering?
**[07:13] Masuho**
You promised to lend Yukiya a sword.
What if you make him late?
**[07:19] Sumio**
I beg your pardon.
**[07:20] Hamayu**
Sorry. Feel free to come in.
**[07:24] Hamayu**
*You* stay out there.
**[07:28] Sumio**
Have a heart.
***SIGN*** The Ravine
***SIGN*** The Underground
**[09:27] Natsuka**
Tobi, I presume?
**[09:30] Tobi**
We called for the Prince.
**[09:37] Natsuka**
I am Natsuka of Clear Mirror Temple.
**[09:40] Natsuka**
I have come here today
on His Highness's behalf.
**[09:49] Natsuka**
I hate to be abrupt—
**[09:50] Tobi**
The meeting's off.
**[09:56] Yukiya**
Lord Natsuka.
**[09:58] Natsuka**
Wait! Forgive me. I should have said more.
**[10:01] Natsuka**
I am the eldest son of the Royal House
and brother to His Highness.
**[10:05] Natsuka**
He sent me despite trying circumstances
because this meeting is most serious to him.
**[10:11] Natsuka**
I believe there has been
a misunderstanding.
**[10:14] Natsuka**
We have not breached our agreement
with you, and we do not intend to.
**[10:19] Natsuka**
You may take issue with us holding the
water-merchant's daughter, but we merely—
**[10:24] Tobi**
Enough.
**[10:26] Tobi**
If you don't get it,
I'll spell it out for you.
**[10:28] Tobi**
Your oh-so-noble birth and upbringing
aren't worth a bronze piece down here.
**[10:34] Tobi**
Only one thing counts.
**[10:37] Tobi**
And that's trust.
**[10:41] Tobi**
The same goes for our agreement.
**[10:43] Tobi**
Not a word in writing, but it has lasted
for decades, all on the strength of trust.
**[10:50] Tobi**
Except the Prince stood us up.
**[10:54] Tobi**
A proxy? "Trying circumstances"?
**[10:57] Tobi**
I can't believe he takes
our relationship that lightly.
**[11:04] Tobi**
Our agreement is history.
**[11:08] Tobi**
Tell that to your sniveling brother.
**[11:14] Yukiya**
Lord Natsuka.
**[11:18] Yukiya**
Lord Natsuka.
**[11:23] Natsuka**
This is Yukiya, grandson of Genya,
Lord of the North!
**[11:26] Natsuka**
I leave him in your care as a hostage
to demonstrate our sincerity.
**[11:34] Tobi**
Are you crazy?
**[11:35] Natsuka**
It pains me to take such steps,
but I can see I have no other choice.
**[11:40] Natsuka**
What could the Underground desire
more than a Northern hostage?
**[11:46] Natsuka**
What are you waiting for? Accept him.
**[11:49] Underling**
That does it.
**[11:50] Underling**
What the hell do they take us for?
**[11:55] Tobi**
Throw them out.
**[11:56] Natsuka**
Huh?
**[12:07] Rokon**
I suggest we retreat and
let the Prince sort this out later.
**[12:11] Natsuka**
You fool. How could I?
**[12:24] Yukiya**
Lord Tobi, I beg you to hear my request.
***SIGN*** Cherry Blossom Palace
**[12:32] Lady-in-Waiting**
Now, turn the thread around there.
**[12:35] Lady-in-Waiting**
Yes, just like that.
**[12:36] Azusa**
Koume.
**[12:38] Koume**
My lady!
**[12:40] Koume**
You didn't have to come all this way.
**[12:42] Azusa**
I heard you'd had an awful time.
Are you all right?
**[12:46] Koume**
Yes. Yukiya kept me safe.
**[12:49] Koume**
And everyone here has been so kind to me.
**[12:53] Koume**
Has Yukiya gone back to Taruhi?
**[13:04] Yukiya**
I sincerely apologize
for our repeated affronts.
**[13:07] Yukiya**
Though I accompanied Lord Natsuka
as the Lord of the North's grandson,
**[13:12] Yukiya**
I am well aware how
meaningless my birth is here.
**[13:16] Yukiya**
And so, as a humble
supplicant like any other,
**[13:20] Yukiya**
I hope you will hear me out
for a short while.
**[13:24] Natsuka**
Yukiya?
**[13:28] Yukiya**
I call Taruhi in the North my home.
**[13:32] Yukiya**
No doubt you have heard of the many deaths
the monkeys have recently inflicted on us.
**[13:38] Yukiya**
Those they devoured were like family to me.
**[13:41] Yukiya**
And this morning, yet another
monkey attack came to light.
**[13:47] Yukiya**
So I ask you plainly:
**[13:50] Yukiya**
Lord Tobi, do you know
anything about these monkeys?
**[13:56] Tobi**
What?
**[13:57] Yukiya**
I heard the Underground holds a clue.
**[14:00] Tobi**
Who told you that?
**[14:02] Yukiya**
His Highness the Prince.
**[14:03] Tobi**
The Prince?
**[14:04] Yukiya**
Yes.
**[14:06] Yukiya**
Kin'u instinct, he called it.
**[14:15] Tobi**
"Kin'u instinct," huh?
**[14:18] Tobi**
It sounds like you believe that
lily-livered prince is a real Golden Raven.
**[14:40] Yukiya**
He can't be a yatagarasu
like the rest of us.
**[14:46] Yukiya**
So what is he? I don't know.
**[14:50] Yukiya**
However...
**[14:51] Yukiya**
If a "kin'u" is one who brings
salvation to the yatagarasu,
**[14:57] Yukiya**
then I believe the Prince is a true kin'u.
**[15:01] Yukiya**
I'll do anything I can for you.
**[15:04] Yukiya**
So please, tell us about the monkeys!
**[15:07] Underling**
He's got some nerve!
**[15:07] Underling**
Get a load of this kid!
**[15:07] Underling**
Say that again! I dare you!
**[15:08] Yukiya**
Please! I'd gladly die to keep my home safe.
**[15:13] Yukiya**
Please, Lord Tobi.
**[15:16] Yukiya**
I beg of you.
**[15:30] Saku**
Well, I'll be. What a lad.
**[15:32] Saku**
I guess a few court ravens
have some fire in 'em yet.
**[15:52] Underling**
It's King Saku.
**[15:55] Underling**
King Saku.
**[15:57] Yukiya**
King Saku?
**[15:59] Tobi**
Boss.
**[16:00] Saku**
Sorry to butt in.
I've got a little business to take care of.
***SIGN*** King Saku
**[16:04] Saku**
But you... Lord Natsuka, was it? For shame.
**[16:07] Saku**
I'm amazed you can look down on
anyone with the way you act.
**[16:11] Natsuka**
Wh-What?
**[16:14] Rokon**
Please forgive him.
**[16:15] Rokon**
We had no idea you'd be
putting in an appearance.
**[16:18] Saku**
I almost didn't recognize you
in that uptight getup.
**[16:24] Saku**
At least teach your boys how to behave.
**[16:27] Rokon**
I have no excuse.
**[16:28] Rokon**
If you'll excuse us.
**[16:29] Natsuka**
Your "boys"?
**[16:30] Natsuka**
Wait! I can't let that—
**[16:32] Natsuka**
H-Hey now!
**[16:33] Natsuka**
Rokon! Unhand me! Release me now!
**[16:40] Saku**
They didn't break the agreement.
**[16:42] Tobi**
What?
**[16:43] Saku**
What happened with the water-peddler's
daughter. We got ahead of ourselves.
**[16:48] Saku**
I won't claim there's no connection,
but the Prince isn't mixed up in you-know-what.
**[16:54] Saku**
Guess we dragged you into our mess, boy.
**[16:57] Saku**
Stand up.
**[17:03] Saku**
So you want clues about the monkeys?
**[17:06] Saku**
In that case, I think I can help you.
**[17:09] Yukiya**
You mean it?
**[17:10] Saku**
Sure. Nothing simpler.
**[17:12] Tobi**
Boss, you don't mean...
**[17:14] Saku**
Lord Tobi. Would you let me sort this out?
**[17:20] Saku**
Think of it as doing an old man a favor.
**[17:34] Saku**
Behind that rock, you'll find
a tunnel that goes even deeper.
**[17:40] Saku**
Sandalwood and cassia. Good stuff.
**[17:46] Saku**
This incense clock will last four hours.
**[17:49] Saku**
I'll leave the entrance open that long.
**[17:51] Saku**
If I remember right, you'll find
what you want about two hours in.
**[18:00] Saku**
White shards.
**[18:02] Saku**
Bring one back,
and I'll tell you all I know.
**[18:07] Yukiya**
White shards?
**[18:10] Saku**
Ever used a ghost-fire lantern?
**[18:12] Saku**
Here's the kindling.
**[18:14] Saku**
One lump for two hours, two for four.
**[18:18] Saku**
So start turning back
when the first one runs out.
**[18:24] Yukiya**
And if I need more than four hours?
**[18:25] Saku**
Find another way out.
**[18:28] Saku**
Well? Having second thoughts?
**[18:32] Yukiya**
No. Please begin.
**[19:13] Tobi**
What a waste.
**[19:15] Tobi**
No one has ever come out of
this hole alive. Except you, boss.
**[19:24] Tobi**
Wait all you like,
but I doubt you'll see that kid again.
**[19:29] Tobi**
I'm not complaining, mind.
**[19:32] Tobi**
I just got the feeling
you'd taken a liking to the boy.
**[19:38] Saku**
I treat anyone who asks for help
with real sincerity the same.
**[19:43] Saku**
That's what the Underground is about.
**[19:47] Saku**
If he makes it back, great. But if not...
**[19:51] Saku**
I guess that's all he amounted to.
**[20:53] Yukiya**
"White... shards."
**[21:09] Yukiya**
Two hours on the dot. I barely made it.
**[21:16] Yukiya**
* What are kids doing here?*
* Don't tell me they live here.*
**[21:30] Yukiya**
*They're monkeys!*
**[22:35] Yukiya**
Your Highness?
**[22:36] Nazukihiko**
Go!
**[22:56] Yukiya**
Your Highness.
**[24:31] Narrator**
* Pursuers close in on the pair*
* as they wander the labyrinth.*
**[24:35] Narrator**
* The white shards hint*
* at the truth of their world.*
**[24:41] Narrator**
* The Prince's words cause*
* ripples in Yukiya's heart.*
***SIGN*** The World
***SIGN*** Outside
**[24:50] Narrator**
Next time: "The World Outside."
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E18 - The World Outside
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GN7UNXXJ5/the-world-outside)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:32] Nazukihiko**
Never mind behind us.
Keep your eyes on the thread.
**[00:36] Yukiya**
R-Right.
**[00:55] Nazukihiko**
What's that?
**[00:57] Yukiya**
This?
**[01:00] Yukiya**
King Saku told me he'd tell me
all he knows about the monkeys
**[01:04] Yukiya**
if I brought back a "white shard."
**[01:13] Yukiya**
Your Highness must have
seen those heaps of bones.
**[01:17] Yukiya**
They've been eating yatagarasu
long before Sazaki and Sugou.
**[01:23] Yukiya**
Why didn't we catch on to them before now?
**[01:26] Nazukihiko**
No, that's not the only explanation.
**[01:29] Yukiya**
What do you mean?
**[01:35] Yukiya**
Don't tell me these are *monkey* bones?
**[01:38] Nazukihiko**
We'll have to get out of here
if we want to find out.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[03:42] Saku**
Two hours to go.
**[03:45] Tobi**
What are you plotting, boss?
**[03:52] Yukiya**
So I know it's a little late to ask this,
**[03:54] Yukiya**
but what are you doing here?
**[03:59] Yukiya**
Actually...
**[04:00] Yukiya**
Almost none of this makes any sense to me.
**[04:04] Nazukihiko**
I slipped out of Sunrise Palace.
**[04:06] Yukiya**
I get that part.
**[04:08] Nazukihiko**
Anyone could see negotiations would fail.
**[04:12] Nazukihiko**
I let King Saku know I would
be there, just not on time.
**[04:16] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[04:18] Yukiya**
Ow.
**[04:19] Nazukihiko**
Are you hurt?
**[04:20] Yukiya**
Your Highness knows King Saku?
**[04:24] Nazukihiko**
Yes.
**[04:26] Nazukihiko**
We can't afford a permanent breach
between the court and the Underground.
**[04:31] Nazukihiko**
No one but the old man could have
kept the situation under control.
**[04:38] Yukiya**
I see. So that's why
King Saku showed up.
**[04:44] Nazukihiko**
Once King Saku had smoothed
over my brother's meeting,
**[04:47] Nazukihiko**
I was supposed to enter this cave
to investigate the monkeys alone.
**[04:53] Yukiya**
What?
**[04:54] Nazukihiko**
Still, I didn't expect you to come along.
**[04:58] Nazukihiko**
I don't know everything
that old man is thinking.
**[05:03] Nazukihiko**
Don't let you guard down.
**[05:13] Yukiya**
So we were all dancing to his tune?
**[05:18] Yukiya**
Wait, what about Sumio?
***SIGN*** Sunrise Palace
**[05:29] Hamayu**
It's stuffy in here.
Shall I let in some fresh air?
**[05:41] Hamayu**
Sorry for roping you into this.
**[05:44] Kikuno**
No, I'm happy to help.
**[05:50] Sumio**
Is that...
**[06:01] Sumio**
I've been had!
**[06:09] Hamayu**
He doesn't have it easy, either.
**[06:23] Nazukihiko**
Do you hear something?
**[06:32] Yukiya**
Nothing special.
**[06:47] Saku**
Well...
**[06:50] Saku**
Any moment now.
**[07:03] Yukiya**
Huh? I thought this was a straight path.
**[07:06] Yukiya**
I didn't pass a place like this.
**[07:08] Nazukihiko**
Neither did I. I followed your thread.
**[07:16] Yukiya**
The thread...
**[07:19] Yukiya**
Your Highness, give me the light.
**[07:29] Yukiya**
Found it!
**[07:30] Nazukihiko**
You fool!
**[07:32] Nazukihiko**
Look at the ground.
**[07:37] Yukiya**
Sorry.
**[07:39] Yukiya**
But I found the thread.
**[07:42] Yukiya**
We can follow it to the exit.
**[07:52] Yukiya**
Huh? Isn't this...
**[07:55] Yukiya**
We're back *here*?
**[07:57] Yukiya**
Did we take a wrong turn somewhere?
**[08:00] Yukiya**
Let's try again.
**[08:06] Yukiya**
How are we back here *again*?
**[08:09] Yukiya**
The path was straight.
It didn't fork off anywhere.
**[08:13] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya, do you remember...
**[08:16] Nazukihiko**
when I mended a tear in the boundary?
**[08:20] Nazukihiko**
I think this place is outside it.
**[08:25] Yukiya**
Outside the boundary?
**[08:29] Nazukihiko**
I think the boundary that protects Yamauchi
is causing this strange phenomenon.
**[08:35] Nazukihiko**
It's removing those who would
try to enter from outside.
**[08:39] Nazukihiko**
We crossed the boundary
without realizing it,
**[08:44] Nazukihiko**
and now it is hindering our return.
**[08:48] Nazukihiko**
It perceives us as threats to Yamauchi.
**[08:52] Yukiya**
Threats? But...
**[08:56] Yukiya**
We're running out of time.
**[09:10] Yukiya**
Monkeys?
**[09:11] Nazukihiko**
They've caught up to us.
**[09:13] Nazukihiko**
I'll hold off the monkeys.
You think of a way out of here.
**[09:17] Yukiya**
M-Me?
**[09:18] Nazukihiko**
If King Saku could do it, so can you.
**[09:21] Yukiya**
Oh, come on!
**[09:24] Nazukihiko**
King Saku doesn't act thoughtlessly.
**[09:26] Nazukihiko**
He must have given you some sort
of clue before you entered the tunnel.
**[09:33] Nazukihiko**
Think back and figure it out.
**[09:40] Nazukihiko**
Stand back, Yukiya!
**[09:59] Yukiya**
What could it be?
What hint did King Saku give me?
**[10:03] Yukiya**
Think. Think.
**[10:04] Yukiya**
He gave me the lantern, and then...
**[10:06] Yukiya**
Damn it! There must be *something*!
**[10:16] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya?
**[10:18] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[10:36] Yukiya**
Your Highness.
**[10:38] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya. I'm here.
**[10:43] Nazukihiko**
Did you find the path?
**[10:44] Yukiya**
Not yet, but I think I know how to.
**[10:46] Yukiya**
You search, too. For sandalwood and cassia.
**[10:51] Nazukihiko**
Sandalwood?
**[10:52] Yukiya**
The smell of it.
**[10:53] Yukiya**
That's King Saku's hint.
**[10:55] Yukiya**
The scent of the incense clock
will lead us through the boundary.
**[10:59] Nazukihiko**
Of course.
**[11:07] Nazukihiko**
Sandalwood and cassia.
**[11:10] Nazukihiko**
This way.
**[11:13] Nazukihiko**
Right here.
**[11:26] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya?
**[11:30] Yukiya**
There's the exit!
**[11:35] Yukiya**
Wait! Wait! Don't close it!
**[11:52] Saku**
You took your sweet time.
**[12:04] Yukiya**
Please see for yourself.
**[12:08] Saku**
Well now. An Adam's apple.
**[12:11] Saku**
Not bad.
**[12:13] Nazukihiko**
King Saku.
**[12:14] Nazukihiko**
Did you know about this?
**[12:17] Saku**
You noticed?
**[12:19] Saku**
Well, you were away for
a long time, so I guess you would.
**[12:24] Saku**
These give off a smell like nothing else.
**[12:28] Saku**
They don't belong to any animal
that lives in Yamauchi.
**[12:32] Saku**
Nor to yatagarasu, naturally.
**[12:35] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[12:36] Yukiya**
Then, they really are monkey bones?
**[12:39] Saku**
Not monkeys, either.
**[12:42] Nazukihiko**
They're human.
**[12:43] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[12:47] Nazukihiko**
That's human bone.
**[12:51] Yukiya**
"Human"?
**[12:55] Yukiya**
Um, what's a "human"?
**[12:59] Yukiya**
Some animal from the outside world?
**[13:03] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya, what is the world outside?
**[13:07] Yukiya**
Everything outside Yamauchi, right?
**[13:10] Nazukihiko**
What is the world outside Yamauchi like?
**[13:14] Yukiya**
What do you mean?
**[13:16] Nazukihiko**
Yamauchi is a little world
wrapped in a thin boundary.
**[13:23] Nazukihiko**
We call everything beyond it
"the world outside."
**[13:27] Nazukihiko**
And that world is ruled by humans.
**[13:32] Nazukihiko**
They resemble yatagarasu in appearance.
**[13:37] Nazukihiko**
Or rather, we make ourselves look like them.
**[14:32] Sumio**
First monkeys, now humans?
**[14:35] Sumio**
Give me a break.
**[14:37] Nazukihiko**
It isn't as though humans are
poised to do anything to Yamauchi.
**[14:43] Natsuka**
Indeed. The monkeys are our immediate foe.
**[14:48] Nazukihiko**
At present, the humans
are victims, if anything.
**[14:52] Nazukihiko**
I suspect the monkeys dwell in the gap
between Yamauchi and the world outside,
**[14:57] Nazukihiko**
and have been feeding on humans from there.
**[15:01] Nazukihiko**
But recently, a passage to Yamauchi opened,
**[15:06] Nazukihiko**
and they discovered another
humanlike creature: the yatagarasu.
**[15:11] Nazukihiko**
They may not even recognize a distinction.
**[15:16] Rokon**
That explains it. They didn't touch
the horses in Sazaki or Sugou.
**[15:21] Hamayu**
If only we knew where this passage was.
**[15:24] Hamayu**
Didn't you learn anything
about that in the Underground?
**[15:27] Natsuka**
The people down there
don't know everything.
**[15:30] Natsuka**
All evidence suggests the passage
is somewhere in the North.
**[15:34] Yukiya**
Oh, but King Saku said—
**[15:37] Natsuka**
What did he say?
**[15:40] Saku**
They're probably
coming through the Center.
**[15:43] Yukiya**
The Center? Not the North?
**[15:47] Saku**
The North is a distraction.
**[15:50] Saku**
Someone may have given them tips.
**[15:53] Nazukihiko**
Would you mind sharing your reasoning?
**[15:56] Saku**
Remember when a string of
Central girls got kidnapped not long ago?
**[16:03] Saku**
I think someone used them to broker a deal.
**[16:07] Nazukihiko**
A deal?
**[16:08] Saku**
Yeah. Between the monkeys
and the yatagarasu.
**[16:13] Saku**
As you saw, the monkeys' lair
is full of human bones.
**[16:18] Saku**
Those are just trash to the monkeys,
**[16:21] Saku**
but a whole lot of yatagarasu
would be happy to have them.
**[16:26] Saku**
What I mean is human bones turn a profit.
**[16:34] Saku**
I don't know who made the offer,
**[16:37] Saku**
but the girls ended up monkey food,
and the monkeys paid in human bone.
**[16:43] Saku**
Whoever got those bones
sold them on the sly.
**[16:46] Nazukihiko**
And that's what got the
Underground concerned?
**[16:49] Saku**
Right. We tracked the seller down,
but he slipped through our grasp.
**[16:56] Saku**
But at least, I'm sure the monkeys
are coming through the Center.
**[17:02] Saku**
You can have this back, boy.
**[17:08] Yukiya**
Thank you for everything.
**[17:11] Nazukihiko**
King Saku, I thank you as well.
**[17:15] Saku**
Talk to Tobi next time. I'm retired.
**[17:18] Nazukihiko**
But aren't you forgetting one thing?
**[17:24] Nazukihiko**
The name of the man who sold the bones.
**[17:30] Nazukihiko**
You promised to tell Yukiya "all you knew"
if he returned with a white shard.
**[17:47] Natsuka**
Jihei the water seller?
**[17:48] Yukiya**
Yes. That's what King Saku told us.
**[17:52] Yukiya**
As I thought, Koume's father *was* involved.
**[17:55] Yukiya**
We can explain why the monkeys
appeared in the North.
**[17:59] Yukiya**
They find hunting in
the Center too dangerous.
**[18:02] Yukiya**
They'd stand out,
and there are soldiers everywhere.
**[18:05] Yukiya**
But they're safe in remote villages
like Sugou and Sazaki,
**[18:10] Yukiya**
and they can get a lot more food there.
**[18:12] Natsuka**
But it can't be that simple.
**[18:14] Natsuka**
They'd have to pass through
checkpoints with the salted meat,
**[18:19] Natsuka**
and they can't even speak.
**[18:21] Yukiya**
That's why they needed a collaborator.
**[18:24] Yukiya**
Someone to do the talking for them.
**[18:28] Sumio**
And that was Jihei?
**[18:30] Sumio**
It does make sense.
**[18:32] Nazukihiko**
Actually, King Saku told me one other thing.
**[18:37] Nazukihiko**
What human bone is used for.
**[18:41] Nazukihiko**
The Underground forbids
the trafficking of it,
**[18:45] Nazukihiko**
but some people still secretly
compound it into medicine.
**[18:49] Nazukihiko**
Small doses of powdered bone
can cause elation.
**[18:54] Nazukihiko**
Take too much, however,
and it becomes addictive.
**[18:59] Nazukihiko**
Those who consume it lose their senses
and can never leave raven shape again.
**[19:07] Yukiya**
Your Highness, do you mean...
**[19:10] Nazukihiko**
I am told that this rare
and valuable elixir is known...
**[19:17] Nazukihiko**
as Sagecap.
**[19:29] Rokon**
That ties everything together.
**[19:32] Rokon**
The monkeys and the Sagecap
come from the same place.
**[19:36] Rokon**
For the time being—
**[19:37] Natsuka**
We must force a confession
by any means necessary.
**[19:39] Natsuka**
We'll do whatever it takes to
flush out Jihei the water seller.
***SIGN*** Jihei
***SIGN*** His likeness
**[19:52] Townsman 1**
It says he helped to arrange murders.
**[19:54] Townswoman 2**
How dreadful. He looks so meek.
**[19:58] Townsman 3**
I hear he's got a daughter.
**[20:00] Townsman 3**
They'll make an example of her and
parade her around unless he shows himself.
**[20:20] (Flashback) King Saku**
We'll take in anyone
who falls through the cracks,
**[20:23] (Flashback) King Saku**
so at least protect the people under
your wings like your life depends on it.
**[20:45] Yukiya**
I didn't know a thing.
**[20:49] Yukiya**
I was so focused on keeping my home safe,
**[20:52] Yukiya**
I never stopped to think
that someone was protecting us.
**[20:57] Nazukihiko**
Of course not.
**[20:58] Nazukihiko**
No ordinary yatagarasu learns of humans
or the world outside in peacetime.
**[21:06] Nazukihiko**
This situation arose
because I fell short in my duties.
**[21:13] Yukiya**
Are you a true kin'u?
**[21:17] Yukiya**
What is a kin'u, exactly?
**[21:22] Nazukihiko**
The kin'u is both father
and mother to all yatagarasu.
**[21:27] Nazukihiko**
He must always face his subjects—
his children—with compassion.
**[21:33] Nazukihiko**
He must defend and guide his people
through any and all hardships.
**[21:41] Nazukihiko**
So it says in *The Roots
of the Great Mountain*.
**[21:44] Nazukihiko**
That's what I was born for.
**[21:57] Nazukihiko**
The boundary has sheltered Yamauchi.
**[22:00] Nazukihiko**
In recent years,
that boundary has weakened.
**[22:04] Nazukihiko**
Ghost-fire, tears,
monkey invaders, and now humans.
**[22:11] Yukiya**
Your Highness said that yatagarasu
make ourselves look like humans.
**[22:17] Yukiya**
What did you mean by that?
**[22:20] Yukiya**
Does it have something to do
with these disturbances?
**[22:25] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya.
**[22:26] Nazukihiko**
As we speak, Yamauchi
is on the road to collapse.
**[22:31] Nazukihiko**
Collapse?
**[22:52] Lady-in-Waiting**
Koume.
**[22:54] Lady-in-Waiting**
Try to keep calm and listen to me.
**[24:31] Narrator**
*A father changed beyond recognition.*
**[24:35] Narrator**
*Who invited the monkeys in?*
**[24:39] Narrator**
*At the bottom of a dried-up well,*
**[24:42] Narrator**
* someone awaits a reunion*
* with the true kin'u.*
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "A Well Run Dry."*
***SIGN*** A Well
***SIGN*** Run Dry
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E19 - A Well Run Dry
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/GK9UGVVNZ/a-well-run-dry)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:30] Koume**
Dad?
**[00:39] Yukiya**
It's better you don't look.
**[00:41] Koume**
Let go of me!
**[00:45] Koume**
Let go! I said let go of me!
**[00:47] Koume**
Dad! Dad!
**[00:49] Koume**
No! Dad!
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU
***SIGN*** The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
**[02:31] Dandy**
Me? Sell Sagecap?
**[02:33] Dandy**
Don't even joke about that.
**[02:35] Dandy**
I want nothing to do
with a drug that risky.
**[02:39] Watchman 1**
A courtesan died in Shimobara yesterday.
**[02:42] Watchman 2**
Stuck her head in a burning oven,
I hear. In raven shape.
**[02:47] Watchman 2**
Ring any bells?
**[02:50] Dandy**
Now that you mention it, a woman
did frequent the physician's place there.
**[02:55] Dandy**
Maybe she's your seller.
**[02:58] Watchman 1**
What kind of woman?
**[02:59] Dandy**
Kind of young. An "older sister" type.
**[03:03] Dandy**
Never got a good look
at her face, though.
**[03:07] Dandy**
Oh, I know! She had moles.
**[03:09] Dandy**
Around here, I think.
***SIGN*** Clear Mirror Temple
**[03:12] Natsuka**
We have identified the body as Jihei's.
**[03:15] Natsuka**
He was flayed alive
before being strung him up.
**[03:19] Natsuka**
He reaped what he sowed, but even so...
**[03:22] Sumio**
The Underground has
always worked that way.
**[03:25] Rokon**
Basically, they played us for fools.
**[03:29] Rokon**
They used the court to smoke out Jihei,
**[03:32] Rokon**
then snatched him when he broke cover.
**[03:35] Rokon**
King Saku got one over on us.
**[03:41] Hamayu**
And that letter?
**[03:42] Natsuka**
It was found tied to the corpse.
**[03:44] Natsuka**
They want us to take it
from here, I suppose.
**[03:48] Natsuka**
It's in Jihei's hand.
**[03:51] Yukiya**
Are you certain Jihei wrote it?
**[03:54] Natsuka**
Positive. We had his daughter
identify the handwriting.
**[03:59] Natsuka**
We will never get a chance
to question Jihei now.
**[04:02] Natsuka**
These are his final words.
**[04:05] Jihei**
*My well ran dry.*
**[04:08] Jihei**
*That's how it all started.*
**[04:16] Jihei**
* I'd heard whispered rumors about water*
* drying up on the central mountain,*
**[04:22] Jihei**
*but I never imagined it would happen to me.*
**[04:29] Jihei**
*Changing trades didn't work out.*
**[04:32] Jihei**
* Debt collectors took*
* the kimono and valuables.*
**[04:35] Jihei**
*Then, my wife left us.*
**[04:38] Jihei**
*My little girl went out to work.*
**[04:41] Jihei**
*I started drinking,*
**[04:43] Jihei**
*and gambled my days away.*
**[04:45] Jihei**
*When I happened to luck into some money,*
**[04:47] Jihei**
*I bought an old well.*
**[04:50] Jihei**
*I trusted promises that it still had water.*
**[04:53] Jihei**
*I was grasping at straws.*
**[05:01] (Flashback) Jihei**
No luck here, either?
**[05:04] (Flashback) Jihei**
God, please bring the water back.
**[05:15] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
You're a yatagarasu?
**[05:19] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
I'm in here.
**[05:22] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
Thanks for drink.
**[05:25] (Flashback) Jihei**
C-Can it be?
**[05:27] (Flashback) Jihei**
G-God?
**[05:31] Sumio**
Huh?
**[05:33] Yukiya**
God? At the bottom of a well?
**[05:41] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
Well, you can call me what you like.
**[05:44] (Flashback) Jihei**
W-Will you please bring the water back?
**[05:47] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
Sorry. I can't do that.
**[05:50] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
But I'll give you a present
by way of thanks.
**[06:01] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
Take it to a physician.
**[06:04] (Flashback) Jihei**
A physician?
**[06:05] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
If you want more, lower down some sake.
**[06:08] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
I'll come again when I smell it.
**[06:24] Jihei**
* I didn't learn the name "Sagecap"*
* until a while later.*
***SIGN*** Physician
**[06:37] Jihei**
*I never doubted it was a divine blessing.*
**[06:46] Jihei**
*And I kept doing what the voice asked.*
**[06:55] (Flashback) Jihei**
Wh-What did you say?
**[06:56] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
I smell something delicious
on you. A young woman.
**[07:01] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
I want to eat her next.
**[07:04] (Flashback) Jihei**
Y-You can't.
**[07:05] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
Why not? Is she your wife? Your daughter?
**[07:09] (Flashback) Jihei**
Please! Anything but that!
**[07:14] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
You must really care for her.
**[07:18] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
Another woman will do.
**[07:21] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
I'll give you heaps more Sagecap.
**[07:23] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
Why not use it to make that woman
who means so much to you happy?
**[07:44] Jihei**
* It was then that I learned*
* I hadn't been worshiping a god,*
**[07:50] Jihei**
* but a monstrous monkey*
* that feeds on yatagarasu.*
**[08:12] Jihei**
* I didn't want my daughter*
* to find out what I'd done.*
**[08:17] Jihei**
*Anyone but her.*
**[08:25] Natsuka**
"And then, one day..."
**[08:29] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
I've had a bright idea.
**[08:32] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
A way to snatch up
a lot of prey all at once.
**[08:36] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
You won't need to hunt anymore.
**[08:38] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
From now on, just lead
my friends to the hunting ground.
**[09:01] Jihei**
* I made up my mind to*
* cut ties with the monster.*
**[09:05] Jihei**
* But then, I hear rumors the Underground*
* was looking for someone selling Sagecap.*
**[09:12] (Flashback) Koume**
Peddling goods to Sugou?
**[09:14] (Flashback) Koume**
Why do I have to come, too?
**[09:15] Jihei**
* I decided that after Sugou, I'd take*
* my daughter and leave the Center.*
**[09:21] Jihei**
* And I put sleeping powder*
* in the sake pots...*
**[09:27] Jihei**
*so that she'd never find out.*
**[09:44] Jihei**
* I thought I'd pulled it off*
* until those two showed up.*
**[09:54] (Flashback) Nazukihiko**
Don't let your guard down.
**[10:15] Jihei**
*Koume.*
**[10:16] Jihei**
*We have to run.*
**[10:18] Jihei**
*Wake up, Koume!*
**[10:28] Natsuka**
So when Nazukihiko and Yukiya
landed in Sugou and slew the monkeys,
**[10:33] Natsuka**
Jihei was left with no choice
but to abandon Koume and flee.
**[10:36] Natsuka**
Meanwhile, thanks to her drugged sleep,
**[10:40] Natsuka**
Koume awoke in the Lord of Taruhi's home
with no knowledge of the Sugou massacre.
**[10:45] Natsuka**
Jihei must have expected death
when he emerged from hiding.
**[10:49] Natsuka**
Both the Underground and the court suspected
his daughter. He sought to clear her name.
**[10:56] Natsuka**
It was all Jihei's doing.
**[10:58] Natsuka**
The thorough chronology,
details only the culprit would know...
**[11:03] Natsuka**
They all ring true.
**[11:05] Natsuka**
This letter...
**[11:07] Natsuka**
is Jihei's confession.
**[11:23] Sumio**
I might get drunk just smelling that stuff.
**[11:26] Sumio**
Will that thing really take the bait?
**[11:29] Yukiya**
Who knows? It's what
Jihei's letter said he did.
**[11:33] Yukiya**
But should we really be doing this
before the council meets?
**[11:38] Yukiya**
Won't they have complaints again?
**[11:40] Nazukihiko**
If I hold a council, the old men will
demand we block up the well at once.
**[11:46] Nazukihiko**
If we want to identify that voice,
we must act now.
**[11:51] Nazukihiko**
What did you think of that letter?
**[11:54] Yukiya**
I have no sympathy for Jihei.
**[11:57] Yukiya**
Loving his daughter doesn't excuse
sacrificing yatagarasu to monsters.
**[12:02] Yukiya**
And Koume never mentioned the
two men who went with them to Sugou.
**[12:08] Yukiya**
I know she wanted
to shield her father, but—
**[12:21] Great Monkey**
Who's there?
**[12:23] Nazukihiko**
First, who are you?
**[12:26] Great Monkey**
Oh, I see. You've found me out.
**[12:29] Great Monkey**
I liked this well, but that's life.
**[12:32] Great Monkey**
Are you the one who killed my brethren?
**[12:35] Nazukihiko**
I killed those who attacked yatagarasu.
**[12:39] Great Monkey**
Even the children. Poor things.
**[12:42] Nazukihiko**
You killed yatagarasu children
in the villages you attacked.
**[12:47] Nazukihiko**
I have a duty to defend my people.
**[12:51] Nazukihiko**
I can't afford to be gentle with those
who mean the yatagarasu harm.
**[12:56] Great Monkey**
You wouldn't be their leader, would you?
**[13:00] Nazukihiko**
I am the true kin'u.
**[13:04] Great Monkey**
I see. The true kin'u.
**[13:08] Great Monkey**
How nice to see you again.
**[13:10] Great Monkey**
Or should I say, nice to meet you?
**[13:15] Nazukihiko**
What are you getting at?
**[13:18] Sumio**
Don't play its game.
**[13:19] Nazukihiko**
I know.
**[13:21] Nazukihiko**
Where did you come from? Are you a monkey?
**[13:24] Nazukihiko**
If so, why can only you speak our language?
**[13:28] Nazukihiko**
Why did you eat yatagarasu?
**[13:30] Great Monkey**
Don't be in such a rush.
**[13:32] Great Monkey**
I've lived a long time.
**[13:35] Great Monkey**
I've known you lot since
you only knew how to caw.
**[13:40] Great Monkey**
You yatagarasu have survived
by forgetting inconvenient truths.
**[13:45] Great Monkey**
But now, the bill has come due.
**[13:49] Nazukihiko**
What do you mean?
**[13:51] Great Monkey**
I mean Yamauchi will crumble.
**[13:55] Great Monkey**
Can't you tell?
**[13:56] Great Monkey**
Put a hand on where your
heart should be and think.
**[14:05] Nazukihiko**
Wait!
**[14:06] Sumio**
Nazukihiko, no!
**[14:11] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[14:46] Sumio**
Nazukihiko!
***SIGN*** Cherry Blossom Palace
**[15:09] Lady-in-Waiting**
Koume, it's time you got ready.
***SIGN*** Sunrise Palace
**[15:23] Yukiya**
I know, I know.
**[15:26] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[15:36] Hamayu**
About Koume's future...
**[15:39] Hamayu**
Someone offered to take her in,
even knowing all that's happened.
**[15:44] Masuho**
She has no family, but we can't
keep her in Cherry Blossom Palace.
**[15:49] Masuho**
We've been scratching our heads
about that ourselves.
**[15:53] Sumio**
That offer sounds perfect, then.
**[15:56] Sumio**
But who's the generous benefactor?
**[16:00] Yukiya**
Lady Hamayu, you don't mean...
**[16:03] Hamayu**
Oh, yes, I do.
**[16:05] Hamayu**
Lady Azusa of Taruhi
called on me yesterday.
**[16:09] Hamayu**
She asked to fetch Koume back from
Cherry Blossom Palace as soon as she can.
**[16:15] Yukiya**
What is my mother thinking?
**[16:18] Yukiya**
Koume's father sold Taruhi to the monkeys.
**[16:23] Hamayu**
All the more reason not to abandon her,
according to Lady Azusa.
**[16:28] Hamayu**
She said Koume shouldn't bear
the burden of living as a criminal's child.
**[16:37] Yukiya**
I'll speak with my mother.
**[16:39] Sumio**
Yukiya?
***SIGN*** His Highness
the Prince
**[16:42] Yukiya**
This report from the town watch
arrived this morning.
**[16:45] Yukiya**
Koume's still hiding something.
**[16:47] Yukiya**
I'll convince my mother to reconsider.
**[16:51] Sumio**
Hey!
**[16:52] Nazukihiko**
Wait.
**[16:55] Nazukihiko**
I doubt you could hold a decent
conversation in your present state.
**[17:00] Yukiya**
I'm quite calm.
**[17:02] Nazukihiko**
Have you ever said that
and actually *been* calm?
**[17:06] Yukiya**
If you'll excuse me.
**[17:08] Nazukihiko**
Don't go. That's an order.
**[17:10] Yukiya**
Since when did I pledge my loyalty to *you*?!
***SIGN*** Mansion of the Northern House
**[17:29] Yukiya**
Koume.
**[17:34] Koume**
Yukiya?
**[17:35] Yukiya**
You begged my mother, didn't you?
**[17:39] Koume**
What?
**[17:40] Yukiya**
Don't come to Taruhi. I can't trust you.
**[17:47] Koume**
I can't blame you for being angry.
**[17:50] Koume**
I wasn't truthful, even though you all
showed me so much sympathy and kindness.
**[17:56] Koume**
When I heard you went to
the Underground because of me,
**[18:00] Koume**
I thought my heart would burst.
**[18:03] Koume**
But Yukiya, I really didn't know.
**[18:08] Koume**
Not about what happened in Sugou
or what my father did.
**[18:12] Koume**
I mean, he was so spineless.
**[18:17] Koume**
I still can't believe it.
**[18:20] Yukiya**
They say a woman sold Sagecap in Shimobara.
**[18:22] Koume**
Shimobara?
**[18:23] Yukiya**
Yes. A town on the road
from the Center to Sugou.
**[18:30] Yukiya**
She had a huge supply of Sagecap.
**[18:33] Yukiya**
And although she took care
to hide her face,
**[18:37] Yukiya**
she had two moles under her right eye.
**[18:42] Yukiya**
Just like you do.
**[18:45] Yukiya**
Are you *sure* you didn't know
what your father was doing?
**[18:54] Koume**
That wasn't me.
**[18:56] Yukiya**
Lying won't—
**[18:57] Azusa**
Is that you, Yukiya?
**[19:01] Yukiya**
Mother.
**[19:03] Koume**
My lady.
**[19:04] Azusa**
What brings you here?
**[19:06] Azusa**
What were you talking about?
**[19:10] Koume**
Nothing, my lady.
**[19:13] Koume**
I think I'd better excuse myself.
**[19:15] Yukiya**
Wait.
**[19:16] Yukiya**
I still have...
**[19:19] Koume**
See you, Yukiya.
**[19:25] Yukiya**
Mother, she's fooling you.
**[19:27] Azusa**
How so?
**[19:28] Yukiya**
She's crafty. A schemer.
**[19:31] Yukiya**
She spotted your kindness immediately
and tried to take advantage of it.
**[19:35] Azusa**
What makes you think that?
**[19:39] Yukiya**
She's laying all the blame on her father,
**[19:41] Yukiya**
while she gets a nice,
cushy new life for herself.
**[19:45] Yukiya**
How could she ask to live in Taruhi,
the very place the monkeys attacked?
**[19:50] Azusa**
I invited Koume to come to Taruhi,
**[19:54] Azusa**
but she just turned me down.
**[19:57] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[20:02] (Flashback) Koume**
I truly appreciate your kindness.
**[20:06] (Flashback) Koume**
But I realize what my father did.
**[20:10] (Flashback) Koume**
As his daughter, I can't escape
responsibility just because I didn't know.
**[20:15] (Flashback) Azusa**
Koume, I don't think—
**[20:16] (Flashback) Koume**
My father was kind to me,
even if he was a hopeless good-for-nothing.
**[20:21] (Flashback) Koume**
I probably won't see Yukiya again,
so please give him my best.
**[20:28] (Flashback) Koume**
Thank you so much.
**[20:33] Azusa**
Your mother can tell that anger
is clouding your eyes right now.
**[20:38] Azusa**
Taking revenge on someone is not at all
the same thing as making them atone.
**[20:44] Azusa**
You mustn't become so bitter that
you lose sight of what's really happening.
**[21:17] Yukiya**
Has Koume been found, Sumio?
**[21:20] Sumio**
Someone saw a girl like her
board a basket out of the city.
**[21:24] Sumio**
Nazukihiko has the Yamauchi Guard
out looking for her.
**[21:28] Yukiya**
It's all my fault.
**[21:29] Sumio**
Well, now we know Koume
was selling the stuff,
**[21:34] Sumio**
just like you suspected.
**[21:36] Yukiya**
Was she really?
**[21:40] Yukiya**
* The moles aren't really*
* enough to prove anything.*
**[21:44] Yukiya**
*Even if Koume* was *selling Sagecap,
she didn't need to run.*
**[21:48] Yukiya**
*So why has she disappeared?*
**[21:54] Yukiya**
*Don't tell me...*
**[21:57] (Flashback) Koume**
See you, Yukiya.
**[21:59] Yukiya**
*She wants me to chase her?*
**[22:03] Yukiya**
Is she counting on me suspecting her, and...
**[22:08] Sumio**
H-Hey!
**[22:18] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya?
**[22:19] Yukiya**
Your Highness, I may have
overlooked something important.
***SIGN*** Shimobara, the North
***SIGN*** m 0 0 l 100 0 100 100 0 100
***SIGN*** Bridge
of
Heaven
Inn
**[22:30] Woman**
Are you there, Hatsune?
**[22:31] Hatsune**
Right here!
**[22:33] Woman**
You have a visitor.
Your little sister, maybe?
**[22:36] Hatsune**
My sister?
**[22:49] Koume**
Found you.
**[22:56] Koume**
It's been a long time...
**[22:58] Koume**
Mom.
**[24:30] Narrator**
* Yukiya races through*
* the skies in pursuit of Koume,*
**[24:36] Narrator**
* and the fate of the*
* true kin'u comes to light.*
**[24:42] Narrator**
* Once Yukiya learns all,*
* what path will he choose?*
**[24:50] Narrator**
*Next time: "The Golden Raven."*
***SIGN*** The Golden
***SIGN*** Raven
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki
# E20 - The Golden Raven
Source: [Crunchyroll](https://www.crunchyroll.com/watch/G50UMKKDE/the-golden-raven)
Translator:
Editor:
Timer:
QC:
(Please feel free to edit the speaker names if incomplete or inaccurate. Names are handled on a best-effort basis depending on the info on the source file. Dialogue is left as is.)
**[00:00] Nazukihiko**
The mother who abandoned her family?
**[00:04] Yukiya**
I think Koume pieced it together.
**[00:06] Yukiya**
But she didn't think I'd take
her story seriously, so...
**[00:10] Nazukihiko**
She went to settle things herself?
**[00:13] Yukiya**
My humble apologies.
**[00:17] Nazukihiko**
We must hurry...
**[00:20] Nazukihiko**
to where Koume's gone.
***SIGN*** Shimobara, the North
**[00:29] Hatsune**
What are *you* doing here?
**[00:32] Koume**
Is that all you have to say to
your daughter after all this time?
**[00:40] Coworker**
You have a visitor, Hatsune?
**[00:42] Hatsune**
Yes, one of my relatives.
**[00:44] Hatsune**
We'd better step out for a bit.
It seems urgent.
**[00:47] Coworker**
Sure thing.
**[00:59] Koume**
Well, I see *you're* living well.
**[01:04] Koume**
Is that a man's kimono?
**[01:06] Hatsune**
So what if it is?
**[01:08] Koume**
I was just wondering if he knows
you've been seeing your ex-husband.
**[01:15] Koume**
Dad came here, didn't he?
**[01:19] Hatsune**
Whatever do you mean?
**[01:22] Koume**
Dad stopped at this inn before Sugou.
He said he had a good customer here.
**[01:28] Koume**
At the time, I never dreamed he meant you.
**[01:34] Hatsune**
Pure coincidence. I haven't seen him.
**[01:37] Koume**
What did you put him up to?
**[01:39] Hatsune**
Nothing. I just told you.
**[01:42] Koume**
I heard a woman with moles like yours
sold Sagecap to a physician in Shimobara.
**[01:49] Koume**
That made *me* a suspect.
**[01:52] Koume**
I kept my mouth shut. For now.
**[01:55] Koume**
*You* made that deal with
the monkeys, didn't you?
**[02:00] Koume**
You got rich off Sagecap but made Dad do all
the work so you could keep your hands clean.
**[02:06] Koume**
Then you cut him loose
when he got inconvenient.
**[02:10] Hatsune**
I don't know what you're talking about.
**[02:13] Hatsune**
Could you leave already?
**[02:18] Koume**
Don't worry. I won't go and turn you in.
**[02:25] Koume**
I need to make my own way from now on.
**[02:29] Koume**
Won't you give me a little
something to get started...
**[02:32] Koume**
Mom?
**[02:39] Hatsune**
You really are my daughter.
**[02:42] Hatsune**
Wait a moment.
**[02:45] Koume**
Still, I'm impressed.
**[02:48] Koume**
How'd you ever convince that coward to
kidnap girls and feed them to the monkeys?
**[02:55] Hatsune**
As if Jihei would've ever found the courage.
**[03:01] Hatsune**
I just asked him to do a little job.
**[03:04] Hatsune**
You know, "Won't you take
some shady cargo to Sazaki for me?"
**[03:08] Koume**
"Some shady cargo"?
**[03:13] Koume**
You mean Dad didn't know about the monkeys?
**[03:17] Hatsune**
You think he would've agreed if he had?
**[03:20] Hatsune**
Sure enough, he came back
from Sazaki as pale as a ghost.
**[03:23] Hatsune**
"What did you make me do?" and
"I'll never take a job like that again!" and so on.
**[03:29] Hatsune**
But in the end, he agreed
to go to Sugou, too.
**[03:33] Koume**
Why? Didn't he say he was
done with that stuff?
**[03:36] Hatsune**
Well, you see, he sold Sagecap to an amateur
and caught the Underground's attention.
**[03:43] Hatsune**
If you'd stayed in the Center,
you would've both been dead.
**[03:47] Hatsune**
He decided to flee to the countryside and
make it look like the monkeys had eaten you.
**[03:52] Hatsune**
That's why he took the Sugou job.
**[03:55] Koume**
Let me guess. You planned that part, too.
**[03:58] Koume**
Dad could never handle Sagecap.
**[04:02] Koume**
You knew that and set him up
so he'd have no choice but to go to Sugou.
**[04:06] Hatsune**
Me? Perish the thought.
**[04:09] Koume**
And to top it off,
you dumped all the blame on him.
**[04:12] Koume**
You told him to write that
he'd done it all on his own and—
**[04:16] Hatsune**
Jihei wrote that confession for your sake.
**[04:20] Koume**
What?
**[04:21] Hatsune**
"Think of poor Koume with
*two* murderers for parents," he said.
**[04:25] Hatsune**
"Let me be the only villain."
**[04:28] Hatsune**
That letter convinced
the Underground to stop with him.
**[04:32] Hatsune**
You were all Jihei thought
about to the bitter end.
**[04:40] Hatsune**
How's this? I think it suits you.
**[04:44] Hatsune**
Oh, I know. My man will be home soon.
Let's have a nice meal. All three of us.
**[04:51] Hatsune**
You really do take after me.
Like mother, like daughter.
**[04:56] Koume**
Don't touch me!
**[04:59] Hatsune**
Koume?
**[05:01] Koume**
Dad's the only parent I have!
**[05:03] Koume**
You...
**[05:05] Koume**
You're not my mother! You *can't* be!
**[05:18] Hatsune**
I can't believe you just waltzed in
here alone. How stupid can you be?
**[05:31] Hatsune**
I bet you thought no parent would
ever kill her own child. How naive.
**[05:37] Hatsune**
My father sold me when
I was 13 to pay off his tab.
**[05:43] Hatsune**
And not just once. Over and over.
**[05:48] Hatsune**
One winter night,
he got dead drunk outside.
**[05:52] Hatsune**
It was supposed to snow the next day.
**[05:54] Hatsune**
So I locked him out.
He was ice cold by morning.
**[06:04] Hatsune**
I was so happy when Jihei fell for me.
**[06:07] Hatsune**
I thought I finally had a family.
That Jihei would treasure me.
**[06:14] Hatsune**
But then, you came along,
**[06:16] Hatsune**
and I ended up alone again.
**[06:20] Koume**
Murderer.
**[06:22] Hatsune**
Yes, I'm a murderer.
**[06:29] Hatsune**
How did I end up like this?
**[06:32] Hatsune**
I only wanted to be happy.
**[06:46] Yukiya**
Koume! Are you all right?
**[06:52] Koume**
Yukiya?
**[06:55] Nazukihiko**
I heard the gist of it from Yukiya.
**[06:59] Nazukihiko**
You must have found it hard to bear alone.
**[07:03] Yukiya**
I'm so very sorry.
I said so many awful things to you.
**[07:07] Koume**
I thought you'd come, Yukiya.
**[07:10] Koume**
Because you suspected me.
**[07:14] Koume**
When you told me you couldn't trust me,
**[07:19] Koume**
I realized everyone who'd
really believed in me was gone.
**[07:28] Koume**
Dad...
**[07:47] Nazukihiko**
Take your time.
**[08:01] Hatsune**
Darling!
**[08:03] Hatsune**
Save me!
**[08:05] Hatsune's Man**
Hatsune.
**[08:09] Nazukihiko**
Sagecap?
**[08:26] Nazukihiko**
Go back inside!
**[08:34] Koume**
Yukiya!
**[08:36] Koume**
Help! Yukiya!
**[08:41] Yukiya**
*What does this remind me of?*
**[08:47] Nazukihiko**
Wait, Yukiya!
**[08:52] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[09:14] Yukiya**
Is he dead?
**[09:15] Nazukihiko**
No.
**[09:16] Nazukihiko**
We'll retreat for now.
**[09:17] Nazukihiko**
Take Koume and—
**[09:48] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[09:54] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[10:00] Yukiya**
Your Highness! Your Highness!
**[10:03] Koume**
Yukiya!
**[10:29] Yukiya**
Your Highness! Your Highness!
**[10:31] Sumio**
Nazukihiko!
**[10:32] Sumio**
Can you hear me?
Hey, pull yourself together!
**[10:34] Yukiya**
Your Highness!
**[10:35] Sumio**
Say something, Nazukihiko!
**[10:36] Yukiya**
Your Highness! Your Highness!
**[10:37] Sumio**
Hey! Open your eyes! Come on!
***SIGN*** Northern House, Main House
**[11:48] Sumio**
It was my fault. I'm so sorry.
**[11:55] Yukiya**
Lady Hamayu.
**[12:19] Hamayu**
Now you've been punished...
**[12:22] Hamayu**
so don't get any crazy ideas.
**[12:25] Hamayu**
That's an order.
**[12:38] Hatsune**
It must have been three or four years ago.
**[12:41] Hatsune**
The water dried up, starting at
the foot of the central mountain.
**[12:45] Hatsune**
Eventually, our well failed, too.
**[12:49] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
I smell something delicious
on you. A young woman.
**[12:53] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
I want to eat her next.
**[12:56] (Flashback) Hatsune's Man**
Out of the question.
**[12:58] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
Why not? Is she your wife? Your daughter?
**[13:02] (Flashback) Hatsune's Man**
I said no, and that's final!
**[13:04] (Flashback) Hatsune**
Oh? And why not?
**[13:07] (Flashback) Hatsune's Man**
H-Hatsune! I told you not to come here.
**[13:12] (Flashback) Hatsune**
Say...
**[13:13] (Flashback) Hatsune**
You say you want female flesh,
but do you really care if it's mine?
**[13:17] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
No, not really.
**[13:20] (Flashback) Great Monkey**
I'll give you heaps more
Sagecap in exchange.
**[13:25] (Flashback) Hatsune**
Well? I'm sure we can work something out.
**[13:38] Hatsune**
Surely you've heard enough?
**[13:40] Hatsune**
Can you untie me now? These ropes hurt.
**[13:44] Natsuka**
They cannot begin to compare...
**[13:47] Natsuka**
to the pain your sacrifices inflicted
on our poor fellow yatagarasu.
**[13:52] Hatsune**
My "fellow yatagarasu"?
**[13:55] Hatsune**
I don't recall any of you
lifting a feather to help *me*,
**[13:59] Hatsune**
but if we're "fellow yatagarasu,"
would you mind letting me out of here?
**[14:08] Natsuka**
How dare you...
**[14:10] Hatsune**
No one came to my rescue.
**[14:14] Hatsune**
Especially no blowhards who go on about
"our poor fellow yatagarasu."
**[14:21] Hatsune**
But the monkeys didn't lie,
and they paid up.
**[14:26] Hatsune**
They helped me to live in the lap of luxury.
**[14:31] Hatsune**
I still feel gratitude to them.
**[14:36] Hatsune**
Now, I suppose you're going to kill me.
**[14:41] Hatsune**
Go ahead.
**[14:43] Hatsune**
I forgive you.
**[14:49] Official**
Take her away!
**[14:52] Soldier**
On your feet!
**[14:54] Hatsune**
This society isn't going to last
much longer like this anyway.
**[14:58] Soldier**
Move!
**[15:09] Natsuka**
I do not understand.
**[15:11] Natsuka**
I cannot make sense of that woman.
**[15:14] Natsuka**
No. She is beyond pity.
**[15:18] Natsuka**
I do not need to understand her.
**[15:21] Rokon**
I bet her execution won't be pretty.
**[15:29] Natsuka**
She brought it on herself.
**[15:31] Rokon**
Yes, Lord Natsuka. You've got that right.
**[15:34] Natsuka**
Then, wipe that smug look
off your face this instant!
**[15:50] Yukiya**
It's my fault His Highness was stabbed.
**[15:53] Yukiya**
I assumed he could kill the big raven
with one blow, like he killed that monkey.
**[15:59] Hamayu**
No, it's not your fault.
**[16:05] Hamayu**
What do you think makes a true kin'u?
**[16:08] Yukiya**
Huh?
**[16:11] Hamayu**
You see, Yukiya, Nazukihiko...
**[16:14] Hamayu**
cannot kill yatagarasu.
**[16:17] Yukiya**
What?
**[16:18] Hamayu**
The Golden Raven regards
all yatagarasu with love.
**[16:23] Hamayu**
He could never kill one of us.
Not even one that was trying to take his life.
**[16:35] Hamayu**
That's just how kin'u are.
**[16:39] Hamayu**
Some even say a true kin'u has no heart.
**[16:43] Yukiya**
What do you mean?
**[16:45] Hamayu**
"No emotion" might be nearer the mark.
**[16:48] Hamayu**
In fact, Nazukihiko says so himself.
**[16:50] Hamayu**
"I can't recall feeling joy,
sorrow, or any other emotion."
**[16:56] Hamayu**
"To a lord who would rule justly,
personal feelings are nothing but a burden."
**[17:04] Yukiya**
That does sound like him.
**[17:07] Hamayu**
You've had an especially rough time of it.
**[17:11] Hamayu**
But you know, I'm convinced Nazukihiko's
lying about having no emotions.
**[17:20] Hamayu**
It's just that in the face
of his grand duty as kin'u,
**[17:25] Hamayu**
his own feelings become
as weak as wet paper.
**[17:29] Hamayu**
They probably dissolve into nothing
before he even notices them.
**[17:41] Voice**
His Highness, the Prince, has awakened!
**[17:56] Natsuka**
Thank goodness. Oh, thank goodness.
**[17:59] Sumio**
Nazukihiko! Do you recognize me?
**[18:04] Sumio**
Nazukihiko.
**[18:12] Yukiya**
Oh, God...
**[18:37] Yukiya**
How is Your Highness's wound?
**[18:40] Nazukihiko**
It barely gives me pain now.
**[18:42] Nazukihiko**
You look sickly yourself.
Would you rather wait here?
**[18:46] Yukiya**
You must be joking.
What if something happened to you?
**[18:53] Nazukihiko**
There.
**[19:08] Yukiya**
Ghost-fire?
**[19:13] Yukiya**
Why is there so much of it?
**[19:14] Nazukihiko**
It seems the tears have widened
while I was bedridden.
**[19:33] Nazukihiko**
Ghost-fire is the light humans make.
**[19:36] Yukiya**
Really?
**[19:39] Nazukihiko**
Humans can't stand to leave
any darkness unilluminated.
**[19:47] Nazukihiko**
They move at a tremendous pace.
**[19:49] Nazukihiko**
Their light is already
closing in on our mountain.
**[19:52] Nazukihiko**
No...
**[19:55] Nazukihiko**
It has already engulfed and
destroyed several outlying villages.
**[20:00] Nazukihiko**
The monkeys will reemerge before long.
**[20:05] Nazukihiko**
Yamauchi's waters will run dry.
Its people's hearts will grow barren.
**[20:11] Nazukihiko**
The tears will continue to spread
until the humans eventually find us.
**[20:16] Yukiya**
Will that be the end of Yamauchi?
Will it all disappear?
**[20:21] Nazukihiko**
Not even I know what form
our ruin will take,
**[20:25] Nazukihiko**
but I know it's coming.
**[20:27] Yukiya**
How can you be so certain?
**[20:30] Nazukihiko**
Because I was born.
**[20:32] Nazukihiko**
A true kin'u is always born
with the strength his times demand.
**[20:39] Nazukihiko**
Healing in times of strife.
Wisdom to survive in times of disaster.
**[20:44] Nazukihiko**
And I have...
**[20:47] Nazukihiko**
the power to halt Yamauchi's collapse.
**[21:01] Yukiya**
What should I do?
**[21:04] Nazukihiko**
Other than go home to Taruhi
and protect your family?
**[21:10] Yukiya**
Then, will you guard
Yamauchi all on your own?
**[21:14] Yukiya**
Stifling your feelings and mending tears
with no one any the wiser?
**[21:22] Nazukihiko**
I am the leader of all yatagarasu.
**[21:25] Nazukihiko**
I would give all I have to save even one.
**[21:29] Nazukihiko**
That is my joy.
**[21:45] Nazukihiko**
We're leaving.
**[21:47] Yukiya**
Your Highness.
**[21:50] Yukiya**
Guarding you means guarding
all of Yamauchi, my home included.
**[22:00] Yukiya**
That means staying to support you
is the best choice I can make.
**[22:06] Nazukihiko**
Yukiya.
**[22:08] Yukiya**
Our true kin'u can do his duty, but he's got
no clue how to take care of himself.
**[22:12] Yukiya**
I can't risk leaving him.
**[22:19] Yukiya**
I humbly beseech Your Majesty, the Kin'u.
**[22:22] Yukiya**
I, Yukiya of Taruhi, hereby pledge
my loyalty to you for as long as I live,
**[22:28] Yukiya**
till my body withers to nothing
and the last flicker of my spirit fades.
**[22:45] Nazukihiko**
You will be my right hand one day,
**[22:49] Nazukihiko**
but I suspect you'll endure
suffering and hardship because of it.
**[22:55] Nazukihiko**
I may abandon you if I grow desperate,
**[22:58] Nazukihiko**
and I may not always be the best of lords.
**[23:02] Nazukihiko**
Will you still have me?
**[23:05] Yukiya**
Please take me as your lowliest servant.
***SIGN*** Unbending Reed Monastery
**[23:56] Student 1**
I hear we've got
serious competition this year.
**[23:58] Student 2**
Oh, you mean that big-shot noble's kid?
**[24:01] Student 3**
I heard he was the Prince's aide.
**[24:03] Student 4**
Is that the same guy who got
a perfect score on the test?
**[24:06] Ichiryu**
This is Unbending Reed Monastery,
**[24:08] Ichiryu**
built to train Yamauchi Guardsmen
to defend the kin'u, lowborn or not.
***SIGN*** Of Shimaki Village
in the North
Ichiryu
**[24:12] Ichiryu**
Only strength matters here.
**[24:14] Ichiryu**
Who cares if he's some noble's kid or aide?
**[24:17] Ichiryu**
I'll beat him black and blue and
into shape, or my name ain't Ichi—
**[24:24] Ichiryu**
Y-Yukiya?
**[24:26] Yukiya**
It's so nice to see you again, Ichiryu.
**[24:28] Ichiryu**
What are you...
You said you'd never come here!
**[24:31] Yukiya**
Oh, well, I changed my mind.
**[24:34] Yukiya**
Joining the Yamauchi Guard
doesn't seem so bad after all.
**[24:38] Yukiya**
I hope you won't be too hard on me.
***SIGN*** YATAGARASU:
The Raven
Does Not
Choose
Its Master
***SIGN*** Illustration: Natsuki