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Ronin: This will trip her up.
Atsu: You’re here, too. Let’s get our bearings… Jubei said the market was near the castle. This must be it… Ishikari Castle… The Oni’s been busy fortifying its walls. That won’t stop me… That must be the island where Sensei Takahashi is hiding out. I could use his yari technique against the Oni Raiders… We have enough to get started… Happy hunting. See you around.
A Mad Pursuit
Kojiro: You have a sword, we have troublemakers.
Atsu: A bounty board — could tell me something about the Oni…
Kojiro: I hope you’re here looking for trouble, friend. Ishikari is ablaze with it.
Atsu: As long as I’m getting paid.
Kojiro: You best get those bounties before the Oni Raiders burn them alive then.
Atsu: “The traitorous raider ‘Mad Goro’ made off with the Oni’s prized musket. The Oni will personally reward whoever returns the weapon and the thief — alive.” This could be how I get close to the Oni.
Sake House Barman: I haven’t seen him — I swear! Mad Goro stole from me, too. He never paid his tab.
Oni Raider: And you think your debt is more important than the Oni’s?
Sake House Barman: No! That’s not what I meant!
Atsu: (Coughs) Dust.
Oni Raider: You are not the dog we are looking for — but you’ll do. You thought you could escape the Oni’s wrath? None can stand against him. We’ll decorate Ishikari Castle with your limbs! This is going to hurt.
Sake House Barman: I’m a dead man.
Atsu: The barman knows the Oni’s bounty. ‘Mad Gro’…
Sake House Barman: No, no, no. Turn around. You’re not welcome here.
Atsu: That’s no way to greet someone who saved your life.
Sake House Barman: Saved? The Oni Raiders will be back — and I’ll have more than Mad Goro to answer for.
Atsu: I saw his bounty outside. He stole a musket from the Oni?
Sake House Barman: Why do you think they call him ‘mad’? Goro is as crazy as he is belligerent.
Atsu: So why protect him?
Sake House Barman: I’m not! If I knew anything I would have told the raiders. I swear on my children — the two I like. Look, you can have one drink on the house, then please leave.
Atsu: One drink? So much for gratitude.
Atsu: Maybe someone else knows about Mad Goro.
Settler A: The way she stood up to those raiders… Reminds me of Sensei Takashi with his yari.
Settler B: He’s still hiding out at an island off the coast, training for I don’t know what.
Sake House Barman: How am I going to explain what happened to those Oni Raiders?
Sake House Waitress: By telling the truth — they were killed by an onryō.
Sake House Barman: Who’s going to believe that? (Groansà This day can’t get any worse.
Settler C: …They found Oni Raiders filled with bullets. Mad Goro’s work.
Settler D: We’ll avoid that route. Which way did you say?
Settler C: It’s — What is a samurai doing here?
Jubei: You took my tip to check out the market.
Atsu: Did Commander Wada send you to keep tabs on me?
Jubei: He doesn’t know I’m here.
Atsu: Is clan Matsumae’s golden boy going rogue?
Jubei: Hardly. What have you learned?
Atsu: The Oni put a bounty on one of his own raiders, who stole some prized musket. They call him ‘Mad Goro’.
Jubei: And you think that if you bring him in, you can gain an audience with the Oni
Atsu: Those merchants mentioned Oni Raiders filled with bullets. Not many firearms in Ishikari Plain. They were about to say where — when you showed up.
Jubei: Them?
Atsu: Don’t point!
Jubei: I can get them to talk. Excuse me, miss.
Atsu: What are you doing?
Jubei: Relax. Please send those gentlemen a round of your finest sake.
Atsu: Don’t say who it’s from.
Sake House Waitress: Gentlemen, thank you for being such excellent customers. Please accept a round of sake.
Settler C: Didn’t expect to find good service in Ishikari Plain.
Jubei: That should loosen their tongues.
Atsu: Quiet — I’m trying to listen.
Settler D: One more drink, then we head out. If we’re avoiding Iwami Village, we’ll need the extra light.
Atsu: Iwami Village. That must be where Mad Goro killed the Oni Raiders.
Jubei: See? I have my ways.
Oni Raider: Out of the way or feel the Oni’s wrath .
Atsu: Oni Raiders. But are they here for me or you?
Jubei: Let’s find out.
Oni Raider: The samurai — where is he?
Settler: I want my reward first.
Oni Raider: Your reward will be a sword through the gut unless you tell us where the samurai is.
Jubei: I guess they’re here for me.
Oni Raider: Look, boys. He found himself a woman.
Atsu: You’ve got the wrong idea.
Jubei: Why don’t we set them straight?
Oni Raider: The great Oni wants you dead.
Jubei: Come on — before reinforcements arrive! These people are forced to live in fear under the Oni.
Atsu: We know what that’s like.
Jubei: Atsu, about that night. What they did to our parents…
Atsu: Forget it — I shouldn’t have said anything. There’s your horse. Give Commander Wada my regards.
Jubei: Atsu, wait. Can we please talk?
Atsu: Be quick. I have a bounty to catch.
Jubei: Let me help you.
Atsu: Why?
Jubei: Father would want us to work together. And I want to know my sister.
Atsu: You may not like who I’ve become.
Jubei: You’re assuming I liked you before.
Atsu: All right, but this is my job. I make the calls.
Jubei: Lead the way.
Atsu: Iwami Village. That’s where we’ll pick up Mad Goro’s trail.
Jubei: It’s just across this bridge.
Jubei: I remember when this happened. The Oni sent his raider to torch the village after they gave our clan supplies. By the time we arrived, everything was in flames. All we could do was watch.
Atsu: We should ask around. See if anyone saw Mad Goro.
Settler: Clan Matsumae has come to help! My lord! Over here!
Jubei: Atsu. This way.
Settler: I knew clan Matsumae would not abandon us. Not after we provided food — and lumber for your bridge.
Atsu: We’re just passing through —
Jubei: To relay a message. Gather any survivors and head to the southern camp. Tell them Lord Kitamori sent you.
Settler: Thank you, my lord.
Atsu: Before you go, we’re looking for someone called Mad Goro. He carried a musket.
Settler: I heard something like thunder behind Bear Rock.
Jubei: Gunfire. Where was this?
Settler: It’s down the road on the left — thank you again, my lord.
Jubei: Safe travels.
Atsu: That was quick thinking. Using your name to help those people…
Jubei: When we first arrived in Ishikari Plain, the settlers did everything they could to support us. We have since failed them too many times.
Jubei: Look — dead Oni Raiders.
Atsu: Shot in the back while running away…
Jubei: There’s a snuffed out campfire on that ridge. Perfect sightlines. Mad Goro’s not just a thief, but a skilled marksman.
Atsu: Let’s look around.
Jubei: A single firearm couldn’t do this kind of damage.
Atsu: No… The Oni Raiders tried to sneak up on Mad Goro’s camp — and got a fire bomb for their effort.
Jubei: Then he picked off the stragglers with their own wardlord’s stolen musket. Let’s look at his camp.
Atsu: A smashed Oni Raider’s mask … (Disgusted gasp) Why does it smell like urine?
Jubei: So far, Mad Goro’s living up to his name.
Ronin: Looking for Mad Goro? I’m afraid he’s our bounty.
Atsu: Until caught, he’s no one’s.
Jubei: Gentlemen, why don’t we save our strength for Mad Goro? May the best hunter win.
Ronin: (Chuckles) Or you can tell us what you know and keep that silver tongue of yours.
Atsu: Their type don’t listen to words — only steel.
Atsu: Well done!
Jubei: Don’t act surprised.
Ronin: Wait, spare me!
Atsu: Let’s make him talk.
Ronin: The bounty’s yours! Please, just let me go!
Atsu: You want to live, give me a lead.
Ronin: We were chasing a rumour of dead Oni Raiders floating in the river. They were killed with a musket.
Atsu: The river? Then why are you here?
Ronin: We saw your horses. Thought we’d make a stop along the way.
Atsu: Bet you’re regretting that decision.
Jubei: He’s given us a lead. Let him go.
Atsu: I don’t like loose ends.
Jubei: (Sighs) Let’s see what we catch at the river.
Jubei: Is this a typical day for you?
Atsu: The life of a wanderer is as predictable as the weather.
Jubei: With more rainy days than sunny, I imagine.
Atsu: I like the rain. It’s a free bath.
Jubei: Here’s the river, but I don’t see any Oni Raider corpses.
Atsu: Let’s head upstream. See what we can find.
Jubei: It must be hard, making a living among cutthroats. Always on your guard. Unsure who to trust.
Atsu: That’s why I don’t trust anyone.
Jubei: Up ahead. Bodies in the water.
Atsu: Oni Raiders. Bloated, but I can make out the bullet holes.
Jubei: No other signs of a fight… Mad Goro didn’t kill them here.
Atsu: Must have happened further up the river. Let’s go.
Jubei: Was your life different in the south?
Atsu: I was always on the move, fighting for whoever would take me.
Jubei: But you served a lord as part of a clan?
Atsu: Why do you care?
Jubei: It would be nice to know you weren’t alone for sixteen years
Atsu: I was never more alone than among the samurai.
Jubei: There! Oni Raiders. By the waterfall. What are they looking at?
Atsu: Corpses. Mad Goro’s been busy. We’ll deal with the raiders, then see if he left behind any clues to follow.
Jubei: Hold on. We should be tactical about this — come up with a plan.
Atsu: The plan is we go in quiet. Pick them off one-by-one.
Jubei: (Scoffs) Even you can’t sneak up on that many Oni Raiders.
Atsu: Twenty mon for every man I kill without alerting the others.
Jubei: Ten.
Atsu: If that’s all you can afford.
Jubei: It’s all I’m willing to give.
Atsu: (Chuckles) Just don’t cheat and give away our position.
Jubei: Oh, your ego will do that for me.
Oni Raider A: How long have they been dead?
Oni Raider B: Hard to tell, now that the animals have gotten to them. Mad Goro probably took a bite himself. Back when he was one of us, I watched him cut out two of his own molars. Rolled them around like dice.
Oni Raider A: Why would he do that?
Oni Raider B: I asked, but he just laughed. Blood pouring from his lips.
Oni Raider A: The man’s not right.
Atsu: Ten mon. Twenty mon.
Jubei: It’s in your best interest to count in your head.
Atsu: (Chuckles)
Oni Raider A: What do you think the Oni will do to Mad Goro once we find him?
Oni Raider B: Nothing so simple as burning him alive. I once saw the Oni feed a samurai his own fingers. Then he left him alive for days, staring at a katana he could no longer hold.
Oni Raider A: If I was Mad Goro, I’d use that musket to kill myself rather than risk capture.
Oni Raider B: That would be the sane thing to do. But they call Goro ‘Mad’ for a reason.
Jubei: That’s the last of them.
Atsu: And you said it couldn’t be done.
Jubei: Just take your money. Now let’s take a look at those corpses. More victims of Mad Goro.
Atsu: ‘Victim’ is a strong word.
Jubei: Prey, then. No black powder residue.
Atsu: They were shot at a distance — likely from that cliff. We should check for a camp.
Jubei: Use your spyglass to see if it’s worth the climb.
Atsu: Tired, samurai?
Jubei: Prudent.
Atsu: I see smoke —
Mad Goro: I see you!
Atsu: Shit.
Mad Goro: (Maniacal Laughter)
Jubei: Are you hurt?
Atsu: No, I just hate when a bounty finds me first.
Mad Goro: (Maniacal Laughter)
Atsu: Distract him with your bow, while I sneak up that cliff.
Jubei: You’re going up there?
Atsu: We need him alive and I can’t catch him from down here.
Mad Goro: (Maniacal Laughter) Arrows? (Laughs) More like ass scratchers. Keep sending them my way — I’ve got a rash like you wouldn’t believe. Started small, but I picked at it. Turned into a scab. I think it’s infected.
Jubei: Have you tried mugwort?
Mad Goro: I’m a wanted man — I can’t take a shit without someone ambushing me, much less go herb frolicking.
Jubei: I have some in my pack. Come down, I’ll make you a salve.
Mad Goro: (Laughs) Appreciate the offer, but I think I’ll just shoot you.
Jubei: Fair enough.
Mad Goro: (Maniacal Laughter)
Atsu: He’s running!
Jubei: Get him — I’ll catch up!
Atsu: Get back here!
Mad Goro: You want me? (Laughs) Come and get me!
Atsu: Come on, boy! We have to catch him!
Mad Goro: (Maniacal Laughter)
Atsu: Crazy son of a … You can throw bombs at me, but not at Homura!
Mad Goro: Bombs? Like these? (Maniacal Laughter)
Atsu: (Frustrated growl) If I didn’t need you for the Oni…
Jubei: He’s fast!
Atsu: We’ll catch him!
Jubei: It’d be a lot easier if we could just put an arrow in his skull!
Atsu: We need him alive to reach the Oni! Mad Goro’s horse. He must have gone in there.
Jubei: Careful — he likely abandoned it for the high ground, where he can put that musket to use. Find cover!
Mad Goro: (Giggles) Nobody’s home! Come back another day!
Atsu: Can’t see through the smoke.
Jubei: Move forward — carefully.
Mad Goro: (Maniacal Laughter)
Atsu: Use your bow. Distract him so I can get close.
Jubei: Because that worked so well before.
Atsu: He’s got nowhere to run this time.
Jubei: (Sighs) It’s your job. We meet again!
Mad Goro: (Chuckles) And you brought more arrows. This is familiar.
Jubei: Like an old song. You’re clear, Atsu. Go.
Mad Goro: Except I can see you better now. Refined! Handsome! I regret telling you about my rash.
Jubei: Oh, there’s nothing to be ashamed of — so long as you don’t give it to me.
Mad Goro: You won’t get close enough to catch it. You had a clear shot at me that time. Did you miss because you’re starting to like me?
Jubei: Maybe I’m just bad with a bow.
Mad Goro: With those strong arms and piercing eyes — not a chance.
Jubei: (Chuckles) You won’t charm me, Goro.
Mad Goro: I had to try. (Maniacal Laughter)
Atsu: It’s over, Goro. You’re a sneaky one! I prefer your friend! (Disgusted noise) What is that smell?
Mad Goro: The musk of a wanted man.
Jubei: Careful, Atsu — he has a rash!
Mad Goro: Wait (Sniffs) You have a musk of your own … onryō.
Atsu: Sniff me again and I’ll cut off your nose.
Mad Goro: (Maniacal Laughter)
Jubei: Not so cocky now, are you, Goro?
Mad Goro: You hit hard for a ghost.
Atsu: Hands behind your back — and stop talking.
Jubei: So, this is the infamous Mad Goro. And our other prize — the Oni’s musket. I don’t know which one is more distasteful.
Atsu: Time to meet your master.
Mad Goro: What a boring, straightforward approach. Especially considering what I can offer clan Matsumae.
Jubei: Yes, yes. We heard all about your rash.
Mad Goro: I was referring to information. I know how the Oni Raiders operate, their numbers, where they keep their prisoners of war… Did you think we burned them all? The Oni needs labour to fix up his castle. And you samurai are so strong…
Jubei: How many?
Mad Goro: Two dozen. Maybe more.
Atsu: Jubei — he’s playing you.
Mad Goro: Something about you Matsumae really gets under the Oni’s skin. I think you make him long for his glory days… When he was a smooth-skinned hero — not unlike yourself.
Jubei: I need to bring him in for questioning.
Atsu: This was always your plan. All that bullshit about getting to know me —
Jubei: Men’s lives are at stake —
Atsu: Of course you’d choose your clan over me.
Jubei: I’m not choosing anyone, Atsu. Give me a few days, then I promise. Mad Goro and the musket are yours. We can both get what we want.
Atsu: I thought we wanted the same thing — the Oni dead.
Jubei: And he will be. In a couple of days.
Atsu: (Grunts)
Mad Goro: (Surprised yelp)
Atsu: You have twenty-four hours, then I am taking him. And no one — not even you, dear brother — can stop me.
Jubei: I’ll meet you near the Oni’s Castle.
Atsu: Salmon? (Sighs) I hope Jubei keeps his word.
Belly of the Beast
Jubei: Atsu…
Atsu: Where is Mad Goro?
Jubei: Commander Wada refused to release him.
Atsu: I told you this would happen —
Jubei: I brought you the musket he stole —
Atsu: Not good enough — I need someone who will get the Oni’s attention. Someone like Clan Matsumae’s golden boy.
Jubei: No. Absolutely not.
Atsu: Then bring me Mad Goro.
Jubei: Atsu. I cannot defy my own clan.
Atsu: You already did by helping me — by being here now. The Oni killed our father. We have to do this.
Jubei: If I agree to act as your prisoner, we need to be careful. And patient.
Atsu: Once inside, we wait until nightfall. Then I free you —
Jubei: And then we assassinate the Oni together.
Atsu: I’ll even let you keep his head — a gift for your commander.
Jubei: (Sighs) We won’t get very far if they recognise you. Check the pack on my horse. There’s a mask and some clothes you can borrow.
Atsu: That you just happen to keep on you?
Jubei: You aren’t the only one who knows a few tricks.
Atsu: Are the ropes too tight?
Jubei: It’s fine. Any looser and they’ll be suspicious.
Atsu: Lower your bows! I bring gifts for the Oni! His stolen musket — and a Matsumae lap dog.
Jubei: Loosen these ropes and call me a dog again!
Atsu: Ah-ah, you’re the Oni’s pet now.
Oni raider: That is far enough. We will take it from here.
Atsu: The bounty said the Oni would reward me personally.
Oni raider: The bounty was for Mad Goro — not some samurai.
Atsu: It was for the musket — and this isn”t just any samurai. He is Commander Wada’s favourite.
Oni raider: I have never seen a woman bounty hunter before. How do I know you’re not the onryō who killed the Snake…
Atsu: From what I hear, she has horns and glowing eyes. All I have is this shitty hat.
Oni raider: The Oni pays well. You’ll soon afford a better one. Welcome to Ishikari Castle. Sound the drums! Alert the Oni of our new arrival!
Atsu: The Oni is just up this hill… have you seen him since that night?
Jubei: Only at a distance… He wears the same mask.
Atsu: Then he’ll be easy to spot.
Jubei: As if I could ever forget him.
Atsu: He is just a man, Jubei. A man who murdered our father.
Oni Raider: Dismount and leave all weapons but the musket with your horse — he will be watered and fed. Open the gates!
Jubei: (Sharp inhale)
Atsu: I’m with you.
The Oni: A weapon of fire and pain. Where’s the thief, Mad Goro?
Atsu: Killed by this one.
Jubei: (Grunts) But I figured Commander Wada’s golden boy was worth more than some toothless bastard.
The Oni: Did you now? Take off that mask — so I can thank you properly.
Atsu: You first.
The Oni: (Chuckles) Come. I owe you a reward.
The Oni: Welcome to your new home, samurai — I hope you have a strong back.
Atsu: If it’s anything like his sword arm, you’ll be disappointed.
Jubei: It’s easy to taunt a man who’s tied up.
The Oni: Your hands will soon be free to repair this castle — Lord Saito’s future seat of power.
Atsu: I thought this was your castle.
The Oni: I am a custodian.
Atsu: I have heard many stories about the Oni. None mentioned your modesty.
The Oni: I bow to only one man. My loyalty is absolute.
The Oni: Kanta! We have a new guest of honour.
Kanta: He stands so tall! We’ll soon fix that.
Jubei: (Grunts)
The Oni: Enjoy your stay, samurai.
Saito Outlaw: (Spits) Death to the Matsumae!
The Oni: Come. This way. It’s time to collect your reward.
Atsu: Your men are loyal.
The Oni: They know I will bring them victory.
Oni Raider: Stop her!
The Oni: What is all this?
Oni Raider: Another escape attempt, my lord. The prisoners have grown bold since Mad Goro found a way past the castle walls.
The Oni: Display the body near the holding cells — so they can smell the rot.
Oni Raider: Yes, my lord.
The Oni: And find that damn exit. After you, hunter. Your reward awaits. Few are allowed inside this room.
Atsu: I can see why… It’s dangerous to keep so many treasures in one place.
The Oni: So I learned with Mad Goro. But everything is back where it belongs now. Look around while I count out your reward — just keep your hands to yourself.
Atsu: Why is this musket so important to you?
The Oni: Have you ever been shot?
Atsu: No. But I’ve watched it happen to someone else.
The Oni: The pain stays with you. Long after the bullet leaves your body. Like fire, it scars your very soul.
Atsu: Is this you?
The Oni: As a young man, I won glory at the Battle of Mikatagahara.
Atsu: Shame to hide a face like that behind a mask.
The Oni: Being handsome is not nearly as effective as being feared.
Atsu: Clan Saito. Yours?
The Oni: My father’s. The armour never fit me well — he was a smaller man.
Atsu: You have no son to pass it down to?
The Oni: Children require women — both are more trouble than they are worth. No offence.
Atsu: None taken.
The Oni: No one defies Lord Saito.
Kengo: (Pained groan)
The Oni: (Angry grunt)
Young Atsu: (Frightened yelp) We have to do something.
Young Jubei: I’ll go. I’m the son.
Young Atsu: I’m better with a sword.
Kengo: (Pained grunts)
Young Jubei: I can save him.
Young Atsu: Wait!
Young Jubei: (Scared battle cry) (Choked whimper) (Struggling for breath)
The Oni: (Laugh) Where is your sister, hm? (Frustrated grunt)
Young Jubei: (Scream) (Panicked breathing)
The Oni: (Laugh)
Young Atsu: (Determined yell)
The Oni: (Pained howl)
Kengo: (Laboured breathing) Go… Go find your mother. I’ll be right behind you, I prom —
Young Atsu: (Startled scream)
Kengo: (Pained grunt) My little wolves …
Young Atsu: (Choking gasp)
Young Jubei: Father…
The Oni: Your reward.
Atsu: Keep your money. I want this.
The Oni: That old thing? I don’t even remember where I got it.
Atsu: Then it won’t be missed.
The Oni: Take the coin, too. I’m feeling generous.
Atsu: (Exhales)
The Oni: Tell me, when was the last time you had a good meal?
Atsu: Is there such a thing in Ishikari Plain?
The Oni: (Chuckles) You will feast with us tonight.
Atsu: I’d be honoured.
The Oni: You’ll be drunk — like the rest of us. (Laughs) Until then, don’t go far.
Atsu: Jubei… Where are you? The prisoner who tried to escape. The Oni said to display her body near the holding cells… That must be where they’re keeping Jubei. But how to get him out? The Oni’s jailer. He has the keys… Hold on, Brother.
Kanta: (Scoffs) No bite to this one.
Atsu: I’m coming.
The Oni: Don’t hold back!
Oni Raider: (Sneers) Watch yourself.
The Oni: This is a training ring — not theatre! Watch your footwork!
Oni Raider: That’s who brought in the samurai?
The Oni: The Matsumae are not sloppy!
Oni Raider: Show us your pretty face.
Kanta: I could do better.
The Oni: Delay sows doubt! Strike fast! Strike first!
Kanta: Watch it, you flea-bitten stray.
Atsu: Easy now. I’m not one of your prisoners — I can fight back.
The Oni: Kanta, are you being rude?
Kanta: I don’t like her.
The Oni: You don’t like anyone.
Atsu: If you’ve got a problem, why don’t we settle this in the ring?
The Oni: An excellent idea. Pick up a bokken. We don’t want any casualties.
Kanta: I don’t fight with wooden sticks. What is a kanabo, if not a big stick.
The Oni: (Laughs)
Saito Outlaw: Place your bets! Twenty mon on the one with the hat!
Kanta: (Battle cry)
The Oni: Begin! Careful, pretty hunter — or you’ll become prey! (Laughs) She has tricks!
Kanta: Here it comes!
The Oni: “The mighty fall at last, to be no more than dust in the wind.“
Atsu: Need a hand?
Kanta: You may be a stray, but you are not without teeth.
Atsu: Thank you.
The Oni: An impressive display.
Atsu: Your men might disagree.
The Oni: You won’t be popular at dinner, but you’ve more than earned your place — they won’t try anything. These guards will escort you to the feast.
Atsu: You’re not coming?
The Oni: I eat alone.
Oni Raider: You can really hold your sake! It’s too bad the Oni doesn’t allow strangers to stay overnight.
Atsu: My loss, I’m sure.
Oni Raider: Your horse is at the stables. Damn thing tried to bite me more than once.
Atsu: Can’t imagine why. Need to arm myself, then go back for Jubei. I hear you, Homura. But we can’t leave yet. Glad no one stole my weapons. Need to be careful. I’m no longer the Oni’s personal guest. I’m coming, Brother.
Oni Raider A: I hear the Oni doesn’t want anyone to see his face — that’s why he dines alone at the top of the keep.
Oni Raider B: We all have scars. How bad can it be?
Oni Raider A: Legend has it the swordsmith’s daughter sliced him from eye to mouth. He can’t drink without drooling.
Oni Raider B: That’s just a ghost story.
Oni Raider A: They say she’s here… In Ishikari Plain. The onryō.
Oni Raider B: You weren’t scared when the samurai arrived. But a woman’s got you spooked?
Oni Raider A: Have you not heard the rumours? How she rose from the dead to kill the Snake?
Oni Raider B: I’ve heard them. But we have a demon of our own. Whoever this ‘onryō’ is… She’s no match for the Oni.
Oni Raider: (Humming)
Matsumae: Who… Who are you?
Atsu: What’s the quickest way to the holding cells?
Matsumae: Up that ledge and past the drums. Did Commander Wada send you?
Atsu: No. But don’t lose hope.
Atsu: This is the prison. But where Jubei?
Oni Raider A: Anyone seen Kanta?
Oni Raider B: Probably still licking his wounds after getting his ass kicked by that bounty hunter.
Oni Raider A: That would mean he’s licking his ass! (Laughs)
Atsu: (Disgusted noise)
Atsu: Jubei!
Jubei: Atsu?
Atsu: Hold on — I’ll free you. Are you all right?
Jubei: Just a few bumps and bruises. I think they want to keep me fresh for tomorrow’s labour. (Sniffs) Is that sake? Have you been drinking?
Atsu: I had to play the part.
Jubei: A little too well.
Atsu: The Oni is at the top of the keep. If we hurry, we can kill him and get out before anyone notices.
Jubei: We can’t leave the other prisoners — they’re my clan.
Atsu: That would draw too much attention. We’re here for the Oni —
Jubei: After he’s dead, then. Their rescue will fetch a nice reward.
Atsu: Fine. We’ll come back for them.
Jubei: Thank you.
Atsu: Don’t thank me yet. We still have to face the Oni. There are too many guards to head straight for the castle.
Jubei: We can use the cliffs to go around. Over here — the bars are loose.
Atsu: How did you make this discovery?
Jubei: By trying to pry them open. Why did you think they tied me up? Down this way. Where did the Oni take you?
Atsu: To the throne room. He’s filled it with trophies… Including Father’s old saya.
Jubei: Why would he keep that?
Atsu: I don’t know, but I negotiated it as part of my reward.
Jubei: That was risky. He would have remembered you. All across Ezo, people whisper of a vengeful ghost. What if they connect you to the Night of the Burning Tree
Atsu: Do the Matsumae even know about your family? Your real family?
Jubei: What good would that do anyone?
Atsu: There’s the keep.
Jubei: The castle is further along than our scouts reported. None of this is what I expected. Certainly not the Oni.
Atsu: What do you mean?
Jubei: In my memories, he’s a brute. More monster than man. But he’s articulate and admired by his men.
Atsu: Makes you wonder why he’s loyal to Saito.
Jubei: Because he is samurai. And Saito is his lord.
Atsu: (Scoffs) That doesn’t excuse what he’s done.
Jubei: No. There’s no way across. What now?
Atsu: We jump.
Jubei: Very funny. Atsu! Are you crazy? I just lost ten years off my life watching you do that.
Atsu: Use your fingers to guide your way down. But keep them loose — or they’ll snap.
Jubei: (Groans) (Nervous grumbling)
Atsu: Well done.
Jubei: (Scoffs) This is beyond reckless.
Atsu: Almost there. We can use that scaffolding to reach the top of the keep.
Jubei: You’re putting a lot of faith in bamboo.
Atsu: Too tall to climb.
Jubei: Maybe on your own. Give me a boost — I’ll pull you up.
Atsu: Once inside, I’ll cut his throat so he can’t scream. Then you finish him off.
Jubei: Is that how you killed the Snake?
Atsu: The Snake was a drunk. The Oni is a general — who can bring an entire army down on us.
Jubei: It just doesn’t feel… honourable.
Atsu: And what he did to Father — was that honourable?
Jubei: (Sighs)
Atsu: Jubei, it doesn’t matter how he dies, so long as he’s dead.
Atsu: This is it. For Father?
Jubei: For Father.
Atsu: Where is he?
The Oni: (Yell)
Atsu: (Stifled gag) (Struggles)
The Oni: I knew there was something off about you. The mask, the way you looked at your so-called prisoner… But it wasn’t until you demanded your father’s saya as abutment that I put it together.
Atsu: (Scream)
The Oni: (Scream)
Jubei: Atsu! Atsu —
Atsu: (Winces) I’m fine. The Oni —
Jubei: It’s over, Atsu. We have to go!
Saito Outlaw: Assassins! They’re climbing down the keep! Stop them!
Jubei: We need to reach the horses!
Atsu: Find me, boy.
Jubei: This way! Atsu!
Atsu: (Coughs) Keep going!
Jubei: Through here! Come on! They’re coming!
Atsu: Good boy, Homura. Hold on!
Jubei: We need a plan!
Atsu: The plan is to ride hard and stay alive!
Saito Outlaw: Swarm their horses! Don’t let them escape!
Jubei: We’re surrounded!
Atsu: Push through! You still with me?
Jubei: I’m here!
Atsu: Keep up! Archers!
Jubei: Do you even know where we’re going?
Atsu: Away from the castle!
Jubei: Bo-hiya!
Atsu: I see them!
Jubei: The way is blocked!
Atsu: Stay close!
Jubei: Atsu —
Atsu: Jump!
Jubei: Ride past the tree line! We’ll be out of range!
Atsu: Almost there!
Jubei: Don’t stop!
Atsu: We’re clear.
Jubei: Dismount up ahead. The horses need rest.
Atsu: Let me see.
Jubei: It’s fine.
Atsu: One of the Oni Raiders said Mad Goro found a secret way out of the castle. We’ll question him and next time —
Jubei: Next time? Atsu, we barely made it out alive. I defied my clan and abandoned my brothers to follow you.
Atsu: None of this would have happened if you had brought Mad Goro like you promised.
Jubei: We could have saved dozens of innocent lives tonight. But you chose death.
Atsu: I chose to avenge our father.
Jubei: Our father would want us to fight for the living — not sacrifice them for revenge.
Atsu: Our family was murdered, but all you care about is playing samurai. Where are you going?
Jubei: You once said we were strangers because of the Oni and the Yōtei Six. You were right. I don’t know you. And I … I don’t think I want to.
Atsu: We don’t need him, boy. Mad Goro is still our best lead. We need to free him from the Matsuame camp.
Ginji: Aren’t people surprising sometimes.
Atsu: What are you on about?
Ginji: Oh, Atsu. It’s the villagers. They’re leaving gifts for the onryō.
Atsu: Gifts? For the onryō?
Ginji: And messages too, near the inns and markets. Apparently they like what she’s doing. Maybe you should pay one of these altars a visit.
Atsu: Maybe I will.
Taro: All these offerings… They’re for the onryō.
Atsu: So this is what Ginji was talking about.
Taro: Atsu. People speak of a woman who came back from the dead to hunt down the Yōtei Six. They say she’s an onryō. A ghost.
Atsu: And they’ve left her… offerings?
Taro: Some folks don’t want to risk getting caught in her wake. Others are grateful she’s doing what they don’t have the guts to do. Get even.
Atsu: They don’t even know why she’s after them.
Taro: Trust me. You’ll be seeing more of these around Ezo.
A Fiery Consequence
Matsumae: You again. Leave — or there will be trouble.
Atsu: I have business with one of your prisoners — Mad Goro.
Matsumae: Commander Wada gave explicit orders — you are not welcome here. Turn around before I cut you down.
Atsu: (Chuckles) Relax. I’m going. (Sigh) I’ll need to find my own way in. Mad Goro’s my best shot at getting another chance at the Oni.
Atsu: Settlers are helping to build their bridge…
Settler A: Sometimes it feels like we are trading one master for another.
Settler B: Clan Matsumae doesn’t burn people alive — or work them to death.
Settler A: No, but they serve the Shogun. This land could soon belong to him.
Atsu: The bridge is nearly finished… If I climb across, I may see another way into the camp.
Matsumae A: Why wait to send for reinforcements? By the time they arrive, the bridge will be complete.
Matsumae B: Because if something goes wrong, they’ll be stuck in that canyon — vulnerable to Oni Raider attacks.
Matsumae A: (Groans) I’m sick of fighting the odd skirmish. I want to do something.
Matsumae B: You sound like Lord Kitamoro. I heard he tried to assassinate the Oni.
Matsumae A: On his own?
Matsumae B: That strange woman was with him. I’ve never seen Commander Wada so furious.
Atsu: I’ll see more from higher up. There we go. I can see the entire camp… Now to find a way inside… Hm. The Oni’s training is more brutal than clan Matsumae’s. And more effective. Jubei… (Sighs) I can’t worry about him right now. I can enter the camp from up there.
Mad Goro: Same time tomorrow, gentlemen?
Atsu: I know that voice…
Mad Goro: Another visit to the hot springs might loosen my memory!
Commander Wada: Take him back to his cell!
Atsu: Mad Goro… Making friends wherever you go. Where are they taking you? To the edge of the camp. Lucky. I’ll wait until mealtime — there will be fewer guards.
Atsu: The way is clear. Slip in, question Goro, then get out — the samurai will never know.
Mad Goro: (Humming) Is that my dinner? Oh, I’m starving! (Humming) Well, well, well. If it isn’t my old friend. To what do I owe the pleasure?
Atsu: Rumour has it you know a way into the Oni’s castle.
Mad Goro: Maybe. Why should I tell you?
Atsu: Because I can get you out of here.
Mad Goro: The Matsumae are good to their prisoners. Regular food and baths — my rash has even cleared up.
Atsu: You’re not the type to stay caged for long.
Mad Goro: It’s true… I am a free spirit. (Sighs) Fine. break me out and I’ll tell you what you want to know.
Atsu: Where are the keys?
Mad Goro: With the guards.
Atsu: Too risky. I’ll find another way to free you.
Mad Goro: (Humming)
Atsu: Those boards look loose. Try pulling them.
Mad Goro: With my bare hands? I’d get splinters.
Atsu: Just do it.
Mad Goro: No luck. And I popped a blister.
Atsu: (Sighs) If I can get inside, my hook could pull them free…
Mad Goro: (Humming) Sometimes I wake up wet. Maybe there is a hole in the roof?
Atsu: Why else would you — never mind. Maybe I could —
Mad Goro: Stay there — I have an idea! (Grunts)
Atsu: What did you do?
Mad Goro: I hit it with my chamber pot. Don’t worry — I’m naturally dehydrated.
Atsu: (Disgusted noise) Someone might have heard. We need to go. Give me a hand.
Mad Goro: All right, but my true strength is in my thighs.
Atsu: Stop talking and pull. I’ll go first.
Mad Goro: Worried I will run?
Atsu: You have a history. Let’s go.
Mad Goro: All right, all right.
Atsu: Wait — I hear someone.
Jubei: You just couldn’t stay away.
Atsu: Mad Goro is my bounty.
Jubei: You’re already wanted by the Yōtei Six. Are you so determined to make an enemy of the Matsumae, as well?
Atsu: I don’t care about your clan.
Jubei: Then care about me. I’ve built a life among these samurai.
Atsu: They don’t even know what happened to you that night —
Jubei: And I don’t want them to.
Mad Goro: Is now a bad time to mention no one brought me dinner?
Jubei: I’ll let the guards know. I have to escort my sister outside of Ishikari Plain.
Atsu: You can’t be serious.
Jubei: You infiltrated a Matsumae camp and attempted to free one of our prisoners — I should be arresting you. Now, come on — there will be hell to pay if Commander Wada sees you.
Jubei: This way.
Mad Goro: Safe travels!
Atsu: There is nowhere you can take me that I won’t find a way back to the Oni.
Jubei: You can’t reach him if he’s dead. The bridge is nearly complete. Soon, hundreds of samurai will pour across it to defeat the Oni in battle.
Atsu: A battle will achieve nothing except needless death.
Jubei: Enough. I won’t be swayed from my duty. Not again.
Matsumae: Bo-hiya! Matsumae — to arms!
Jubei: Oni Raiders!
Matsumae: The woman bounty hunter —
Jubei: She’s with us.
Matsumae: But Commander Wada said —
Jubei: Focus on the Oni Raiders! This is our camp! We will not yield!
Matsumae: Here they come!
Saito Outlaw: For the Oni!
Matsumae: They’re through the gate!
Jubei: For clan Matsumae! Not bad!
Oni Raider: Prepare yourself!
Atsu: Fine kill!
Jubei: The gate is almost ours!
Atsu: Kill the stragglers.
Jubei: Matsumae, with me — hold the gate! Atsu —
Atsu: I’m coming!
Matsumae: Watch for their bo-hiya!
Jubei: Stay together! Push them back! Keep pushing them back!
Oni Raider: You will not be ready for this!
Jubei: Focus on the bo-hiya! Stop their fire! We almost have them — don’t falter now!
Atsu: This area is clear.
Jubei: Good work.
Matsumae: Lord Kitamori — Oni Raiders on the ridge!
Atsu: More bo-hiya.
Jubei: They’re targeting the bridge… This is retribution for our attack at the castle.
Atsu: I’ll deal with the bo-hiya. You protect the camp.
Jubei: This isn’t your fight —
Atsu: Do you want my help or not?
Jubei: Thank you, Atsu. Matsumae — with me! Back to the camp!
Atsu: The Oni Raiders have pushed Jubei back to the bridge. I need to get their attention… Let’s give them a taste of their own fire.
Saito Outlaw: Kill her!
Atsu: That’s it — look at me. Come on, come on.
Atsu: The fire’s spreading… Jubei! Damn it. I’m coming, Brother. Jubei won’t last long. Can’t waste time — need to get to Jubei. Jubei!
Jubei: They won’t take this bridge!
Atsu: We’ll fight them off together!
Jubei: There’s more coming!
Atsu: Stay close — I’m with you!
Saito Outlaw: It’s them. The rats who tried to kill the Oni!
Jubei: You will regret coming here! Raider scum! How long has the Oni been planning this?
Atsu: Doesn’t matter — just keep fighting!
Jubei: There’s so many of them.
Atsu: The man in front of you is all that matters!
The Oni: You tried to take my life. Did you think there wouldn’t be consequences?
Atsu: You murdered our father and left me to burn. Don’t talk to me about consequences.
Jubei: Oni, let’s finish this as warriors.
The Oni: Warriors? I see only children. Children too weak to save their father — or themselves. Fire!
Jubei: (Screams)
Atsu: (Screams)
Atsu: Jubei —
Jubei: (Coughs)
Atsu: Come on — we have to swim.
Jubei: The bridge… My men…
Atsu: Swim, Jubei. It’s a long way to shore.
Atsu: (Coughs)
Jubei: (Exhales) It’s over…
Atsu: Jubei…
Jubei: I must return to camp. (Sigh) This is all my fault.
Atsu: That bridge was a threat to the castle — Lord Saito’s future seat of power. The Oni was always going to attack.
Jubei: You never were very good at comforting me.
Atsu: Because you get upset at the wrong things. You almost died today.
Jubei: I thought if I could save that bridge… I don’t know. The camp’s on top of this ridge. I have to see it. (Anguished sigh) The survivors will retreat to the northern camp.
Atsu: Guess that’s where you will go.
Jubei: Back on the bridge, you said the Oni left you to burn.
Atsu: They pinned me to the tree with Father’s sword. Then the Oni put a torch to it. I pulled myself free before I caught fire.
Jubei: Atsu…
Atsu: I don’t want your pity — just for you to understand why I can’t let this go.
Jubei: I’m sorry. I expected you to follow the rules of my life without knowing the first thing about yours.
Atsu: You tried… but I’ve been alone for so long.
Jubei: I will help you kill the Oni.
Atsu: But… what about your duty to the Matsumae?
Jubei: Let me worry about that. You need to find a new lead. I doubt Mad Goro survived the Oni’s attack.
Atsu: I wouldn’t be so sure.
Jubei: What did you do?
Atsu: I loosened a board so he could escape.
Jubei: (Chuckels) I’ll ask if anyone’s heard about Mad Goro at the northern camp. Tell the guards Lord Kitamori is expecting you — they’ll let you in.
Black Guard Leader: You’re going to tell us everything we want to know about this onryō.
Atsu: To the northern camp then, boy.
Twin Wolves, Twin Hearts
Atsu: Jubei said he’d meet met at the northern Matsumae camp.
Matsumae: You fought with us on the bridge. Lord Kitamori is with the commander.
Commander Wada: I need you here — we already interrogated Mad Goro.
Jubei: We didn’t ask the right questions. He knows a way into the Oni’s castle.
Commander Wada: Says who? That woman? Ever since she arrived, you have not been yourself. What are you doing here?
Jubei: I told her to come.
Commander Wada: Against my orders?
Jubei: Commander Wada. She stood with me, defending the bridge against the Oni Raiders. She’s an ally —
Commander Wada: She is dangerous. As unpredictable and self-serving as a wild animal. She doesn’t belong here.
Jubei: Yes, she does.
Jubei: This way.
Atsu: Careful or you won’t be Lord Kitamori anymore — just plain old Jubei.
Jubei: Results are what matters to the Matsumae. All will be forgiven when I deliver the Oni’s head.
Atsu: If you say so.
Jubei: My scout returned with news of Mad Goro. There was a fire at a mountaintop shrine. Its new priest is stranded at the summit.
Atsu: And?
Jubei: This so-called priest is rumoured to be eccentric… and missing a number of teeth.
Atsu: (Chuckle) Oh, Goro…
Jubei: I hate to think what rites he’s been performing for the kami.
Atsu: Being your prisoner may have reformed his dastardly ways.
Jubei: Or given him new ideas. The shrine’s not far. Let’s take a look.
Atsu: Did your scout know he was disobeying orders by looking into Mad Goro?
Jubei: Of course.
Atsu: You have loyal friends.
Jubei: Being part of a clan isn’t just about honour or serving a lord. We watch out for each other.
Atsu: You’re risking a lot to help me.
Jubei: You may not be Matsumae, but you are my clan, Atsu.
Atsu: You said you didn’t want to know me.
Jubei: Rash words I regret. We are our father’s twin wolves. No one can take that from us. The shrine is at the top of this mountain. That path is more rubble than stairs. Let’s find another way up. Horses…
Atsu: We’re not the only ones looking for Mad Goro.
Jubei: The man has no shortage of enemies.
Atsu: We can climb up from there — I’ll give you a boost.
Jubei: Remember when Father would have us climb that cliff near our home?
Atsu: Said it would give us the strong back of a swordsmith.
Jubei: He just wanted to tire us out — so we’d sleep through the night.
Atsu: It worked.
Ronin: No bounty is worth this effort.
Jubei: Hear that?
Atsu: Voices. Stay low.
Ronin: We just need to wait it out. He can’t have much food up there.
Jubei: Bounty hunters. The Oni must have heard Mad Goro was still alive.
Atsu: Let’s do this quick and quiet.
Ronin A: Wouldn’t be surprised if that crazy bastard burned the shrine with himself inside — just to spire us.
Ronin B: Think of the Oni’s reward. He doubled it after that woman tried to assassinate him.
Atsu: That’s the last of them. Mad Goro better still be at the summit.
Jubei: Think positive, Atsu.
Atsu: Scorched wood and … black powder. Mad Goro’s been making fire bombs again.
Jubei: Something to look forward to.
Atsu: I’ll find a way to the other side.
Jubei: Atsu — (Sharp inhale) The way you rush into things… It’s like you have no regard for your own life.
Atsu: I won’t die until every member of the Yōtei Six is in the ground.
Jubei: There are things — people — to live for beyond revenge.
Atsu: Your turn, Brother.
Jubei: You know I can’t climb that. Find me a more dignified path.
Atsu: This way, my lord.
Jubei: (Chuckles)
Atsu: The path is blocked. (Straining) I could use a hand, my lord.
Jubei: Because you asked nicely…
Atsu: This shrine has seen better days.
Jubei: The storms in Ishikari Plain take their toll. Atsu — !
Atsu: I’m all right. Keep going — I’ll find my way back to you.
Jubei: Hurry — and be careful.
Atsu: (Shivers) It’s cold… Must be the winds from further north…
Jubei: Atsu! Up here.
Atsu: I’m fine, Jubei. You worry too much.
Jubei: And you too little. Atsu… I just want more for you than the life of an outsider.
Atsu: I know.
Jubei: Look. You can see the Oni’s castle from here. Does the mainland have views like this?
Atsu: I never took the time to look. I just kept moving, fighting…
Jubei: Running.
Atsu: No, it’s… Do you remember the stories Mother used to tell us about onryō? Ruthless spirits wandering the land, driven by vengeance. Sometimes, I feel like that is what I am.
Jubei: A ghost among the living.
Atsu: I’m glad you found a home with the Matsumae. But I can’t escape that night.
Jubei: What the Yōtei Six did to us… I just pretend it happened to someone else. The boy who couldn’t save his parents. I buried him with my shame and became a samurai who could protect his family.
Atsu: I never blamed you.
Jubei: Nor I you.
Atsu: We’re near the summit. Let’s find Mad Goro and finish this.
Jubei: He better not run this time.
Atsu: He’s nowhere to go except off a cliff.
Jubei: Somehow, I think he’d still survive.
Atsu: Probably.
Jubei: Have you been back? To our home? What’s it like?
Atsu: When I am there, I can hear Mother’s shamisen… Smell Father’s forge.
Jubei: That’s what I’m afraid of.
Atsu: You can’t stay away forever, Jubei.
Mad Goro: (Humming) Welcome, travellers. Come — purify yourselves.
Atsu: Drop the act, Goro. We know it’s you.
Jubei: He may not be a real priest, but it is a real shrine.
Mad Goro: Hm. Your mouth as well.
Atsu: I’m going to kill him.
Jubei: At least he’s not running.
Atsu: No, he’s just stalling. Happy, now?
Mad Goro: Exceedingly.
Atsu: Tell me how you escaped the Oni’s castle.
Mad Goro: First, we must honour the kami. Then all will be made clear.
Mad Goro: Let us hope Kagutsuchi honours us with his blessing.
Atsu: How did you escape Castle Ishikari?
Mad Goro: That is a long tale from a previous life.
Ronin: He’s up here! Hurry!
Jubei: It appears your past isn’t done with you. More bounty hunters are on their way.
Mad Goro: And we cannot dishonour this shrine with split blood.
Ronin: He’s hiding somewhere — find him.
Atsu: Maybe we should let them take you.
Mad Goro: If I die, so do my secrets. But help me and they are yours.
Atsu: This is the last time.
Mad Goro: Here. A gift from Kagutsuchi — the kami of fire.
Atsu: The Oni Raiders use this oil.
Mad Goro: And now, so do you. Life is funny that way. (Laughs maniacally)
Atsu: There’s the Mad Goro I remember.
Jubei: Wait for us, you crazy bastard!
Ronin: Lord Saito will pay well for you. He’s not alone! It’s her — the onryō. Deliver them both to the Oni! A madman and a ghost. What the hell is this job!
Mad Goro: Kagutsuchi provides!
Jubei: Is every bounty hunter in Ishikari Plain after your head?
Mad Goro: Head, toes, and everything in between!
Jubei: On my way!
Mad Goro: There are more below.
Ronin: Lord Saito will pay well for you.
Mad Goro: I forgot something at the shrine. Could we —
Atsu: No.
Jubei: No.
Mad Goro: It was a joke.
Oni Raider: There’s nowhere left to run, Goro!
Mad Goro: The Oni has his musket! Can’t we let bygones be bygones?
Oni Raider: Don’t grant them a quick death. The Oni wants them alive!
Mad Goro: I guess not… Such a shame. But that’s what happens when you attack a priest.
Atsu: You’re not a priest!
Jubei: You’re not a priest!
Mad Goro: The harmony between you two… It’s beautiful.
Atsu: Come on — we’re almost at the bottom.
Mad Goro: Your blade looks thirsty for fire!
Mad Goro: Sadly, this is where we part ways.
Atsu: Wait.
Mad Goro: Oh, right. Our deal. Beneath the Oni’s castle is an abandoned mine that leads to the sea. You’ll need a boat. There may be one hiding along the coast nearby…
Atsu: May be?
Mad Goro: It was there when I left it. Fair warning… The mine smells, it’s dark, and you’ll probably break your neck. Which is a shame because it’s rather lovely.
Jubei: Goodbye, Goro.
Mad Goro: You’re not honour-bound to arrest me?
Jubei: Not today. Though I suggest you find a new profession. One within the law.
Atsu: And that you’re qualified for.
Mad Goro: Until we meet again.
Atsu: He is exhausting.
Jubei: But useful. Now we can sneak into the castle.
Atsu: And kill the Oni. Together.
Jubei: I’ll find Mad Goro’s boat. Knowing him, it will need repairs. Meet me there when you’re ready.
The Tale of the Oni
Atsu: Smells good. What’s on the fire?
Jubei: Salmon.
Atsu: (Chuckles) Of course.
Jubei: Sit. Eat. We’ll need our strength. Admit it — my salmon was better than yours.
Atsu: Only because it was fresh.
Jubei: (Laughs)
Atsu: You’re nervous.
Jubei: Earlier today, I performed the same rituals I always do before a battle. I donned my armour, meditated… Even wrote a death poem.
Atsu: You and your poetry.
Jubei: None of it helped. I still feel the Oni’s grip around my neck.
Atsu: Well I’m no samurai, but I have my own ritual of sorts. I like to make a fire, breathe in the smoke, and remember what it was like being pinned to that tree. And how I didn’t die — because I freed myself. That grip around your neck — it’ll keep you alive. Let’s go — before the storm hits.
Atsu: We should expect more guards this lime.
Jubai: I only hope the Oni didn’t punish the Matsumae prisoners after our previous attempt.
Atsu: He needs them to rebuild Saito’s castle. Over there — we can use that rock to go ashore.
Jubei: I don’t see any mining equipment. We should have brought Mad Goro with us to make sure he was telling the truth.
Atsu: Missing your new friend?
Jubei: He’s endearing in his own way. That’s a long way up. Do you think the Oni has any idea there’s a mine hidden beneath his feet?
Atsu: If he did, he’d find a way to exploit it.
Jubei: The amount of lumber and metal and blood he’s stripped from this land… I wonder if Ishikari Plain will ever recover.
Atsu: It’ll be scarred, but you’d be surprised what nature can overcome.
Jubei: Meaning?
Atsu: Our family ginkgo tree… it’s sprouting leaves.
Atsu: An old campfire.
Jubei: Mod Goro’s ?
Atsu: Seems likely. Look — Oni Raider oil.
Jubei: And a torch. Nice of him to leave behind something useful. I’ll light the way. Or you could slip.
Atsu: I’m not so clumsy.
Jubei: This place does have a smell to it. Musty — like wet clothes.
Atsu: Jubei — look there. We can crawl through. Just watch where you put that torch.
Jubei: Come on. I can see an exit.
Atsu: It’s a tight squeeze.
Jubei: Keep moving forward — you’re almost there. Atsu, look — support beams. I think we found the mine.
Atsu: Dead miners… They’ve been here awhile.
Jubei: Looks like they were trapped in a cave-in. Through here. Veins of ore… I’ll never forget the first time Father created steel from a hole in the ground. It was like magic.
Atsu: In another life, I might have followed in his footsteps.
Jubei: You still could.
Atsu; A master swordsmith must be steady, patient… I’m too restless.
Jubei: People change. You may not always want to wander. (Disgusted noise) Well, we now know where that smell’s coming from.
Atsu: Rotting bamboo. it won’t hold our weight…
Jubei: Over here — I’ll boost you up. How did Mad Goro get through here?
Atsu: Probably fell on his ass. Then his face. Or the other way around. I’ll find you another way.
Jubei: Careful, Atsu.
Atsu; I think I see a weak point. If I break this, I can pull you up. Take my hand. (Straining) You’ve been eating too much salmon.
Jubei: It’s muscle. Come on — this way. What do you think Father would say if he could see us now?
Atsu: Of you, he’d be proud. But me… I’m not sure he’d understand.
Jubei: Atsu, I know you see yourself as an onryō. And people talk of this ghost who killed the Snake. Some of these rumours are true, but what I find most amazing is the girl I remember — my sister — is still in there.
Atsu: Feel that breeze?
Jubei: There must be an exit nearby.
Atsu: (Relieved exhale)
Jubei: Fresh air. Finally.
Atsu: This way.
Jubei: What’s the plan once we get inside the castle?
Atsu: Jubei, I know you want to free the Matsumae… But if we get pinned down, the Oni could react.
Jubei: They could help us.
Atsu: We’ll see once we’re inside.
Jubei: Than you, Atsu.
Atsu: Big jump ahead.
Jubei: This is not a real path. Almost at the castle.
Atsu: Keep an eye out for guards.
Oni Raider A: We’ve been working them for days. I need some air — I can’t take the smell anymore.
Oni Raider B: If the foreman comes down, I’m not covering for you.
Oni Raider A: (Relaxed sigh).
Jubei: Building materials — for repairing the castle’s foundations.
Atsu: We’re close. Be ready.
Oni Raider: Faster! These repairs are taking too long. The Oni is not pleased.
Matsumae: Then he can do the work himself.
Oni Raider: What did you say?
Matsumae: Nothing! He said nothing.
Oni Raider: If you can talk, you are not working hard enough. You’ll receive ten lashes after your shifts.
Matsumae: No, please —
Oni Raider: Now, it’s twenty. Get back to work!
Matsumae: You’re the ones who went after the Oni.
Jubei: I hope we didn’t make things worse for you.
Matsumae: It was the first time we felt hope in months. The Oni Raiders do everything they can to make us forget we are samurai.
Jubei: But you haven’t forgotten.
Matsumae: Never.
Atsu: Then pick up a sword.
Jubei: Today you leave Ishikari Castle. For clan Matsumae.
Matsumae: Clan Matsumae!
Atsu: Jubei — help me with the door.
Jubei: When these doors open — stay behind us! We will clear a path! The Oni Raiders treated you worse than animals. Reclaim your honour with their blood! Attack!
Matsumae: We are escaping! Come!
Saito Outlaw: Call for reinforcements!
Matsumae: With us! Fight!
Saito Outlaw: It’s the bounty hunter and her samurai dog!
Atsu: We’re almost there.
Matsumae: Don’t fall behind! We need to spread out — hit them all at once. Pick up weapons as you find them!
Atsu: Push!
Jubei: Charge!
Matsumae: Take their weapons! Swarm them!
Jubei: On my way! Ha! Keep pushing forward!
Saito Outlaw: Don’t let them reach the surface!
Jubei: Death to the Oni Raiders!
Matsumae: Stay together!
Atsu: The main courtyard is behind those doors! Jubei — with me! Ready?
Jubei: Pull! For clan Matsumae!
Matsumae: For clan Matsumae!
Oni Raider: You will not be ready for this!
Atsu: The Oni should be in the keep.
Jubei: Right behind you.
Matsumae: My lord — the other prisoners!
Atsu: Go. They need you.
Jubei: Come with me.
Atsu: You are the samurai. I am… something else. This is the way it should be.
Jubei: We are our father’s twin wolves.
Atsu: No one can take that from us.
Kanta: You will go no further, little stray. First, you humiliate me in the ring, then you free my prisoner.
Atsu: I was hoping you’d show your face, Kanta. This time, I’ll hurt more than your pride. (Spits) That’s for how you treated your prisoners.
The Oni: I was a hero on the mainland.
Atsu: You gutted my father.
The Oni: He defied Lord Saito —
Atsu: Then you tried to burn me alive.
The Oni: Do you think I enjoy setting fire to children? I am a general! A war hero! I should be on a battlefield — not repairing this rotting and moulding castle for someone else. But I must do as my lord commands.
Atsu: The demon of Ishikari Plain blaming everyone but himself. What would your men say if they could hear you now?
The Oni: Draw your sword.
The Oni: They may call you an onryō. But you are still that scared, little girl. Your father deserved to die. He was disloyal!
Atsu: He was loyal to his family! (Strangled gasp) (Choking)
The Oni: (Gasp)
Atsu: (Grunts)
The Oni: (Grunts)
Atsu: There’s the face I remember.
The Oni: I will pin you to that damned tree again. And make your brother watch. I am a hero — Lord Saito’s greatest general!
Atsu: They may call you ‘Oni’. But you’re just a bitter, old man. Tonight, I avenge my father.
The Oni: He is a rotting corpse. Nothing will change that.
Atsu: Crawl.
The Oni: (laboured breathing) I deserve a warrior’s death.
Atsu: You are no warrior. (Sharp inhale)
Jubei: (Grunt) Oni Raider reinforcements. We need to go.
Jubei: It’s over.
Atsu: For the Oni.
Jubei: You’ll continue the hunt. I need to report to clan Matsumae high command. But once that’s done… Will I find you at home?
Atsu: If you want to.
Jubei: I will do whatever it takes to bring our family peace. You are not alone, Atsu.
Atsu: Neither are you.
Jubei: I better get back.
Atsu: See you around… Brother.
Lord Saito: You took your time coming home.
The Spider: Someone with a grudge is picking off members of our old gang. Not exactly something to rush back to.
Lord Saito: So you were afraid.
The Dragon: Forgive us, Father. There is no excuse.
Lord Saito: You are my sons. The Dragon and the Spider. Your actions, or in this case, inaction reflects upon me.
The Dragon: Our mission was a success. We are one step closer to achieving our vision for the north.
The Spider: His vision.
Lord Saito: Maybe if you weren’t blind-drunk all the time, you’d manage a vision of your own. Then again, maybe not. Come, we have much to prepare for.
Atsu: The Oni is gone, Father. And your twin wolves are together again. I should continue my hunt. The Kitsune is in Teshio Ridge.
Encounters across Ishikari Plain
Settler: Please, don’t kill me. I gave you everything I have!
Ronin: Liar! Empty those pockets or I’ll run you through and search your corpse.
Atsu: What are you doing?
Ronin: Having a chat about the weather.
Settler: Help me! Please!
Ronin: Walk away — this man owes me coin. Our business has nothing to do with you.
Atsu: It does now. Let him go.
Ronin: (Chuckles) Or I gut you both — double the coin. Buy the good sake tonight.
Settler: He was going to kill me! Thank you for stopping him.
Atsu: I didn’t like his attitude.
Settler: Please, take this coin.
Atsu: Thought you gave him everything you had.
Settler: Well, maybe not everything. Stay safe out there, stranger.
Matsumae: Quite the sword you have there. You have the look of someone who trains often.
Atsu: I do more than train.
Matsumae: I left a bamboo stand nearby if you want to put in some extra practice.
Ronin A: Think Kojiro has any friends?
Ronin B: The bounty broker? Not any he hasn’t sold out.
Isaburo: Oh, it’s you. I have maps. If you need them.
Atsu: Isaburo. Bit of a dangerous place to be mapping out Ezo.
Isaburo: I have noticed. But the Shogun’s orders are the Shogun’s orders. Do you wish to buy a map? Before we all get burned to death? Just keep it to yourself.
Atsu: Want to play?
Settler: I’ll play.
Settler: If you want to play again, I’ll make things more interesting. Got a charm that will catch your eye.
Atsu: Play again?
Settler: Yes, but I’d like to wager this charm instead.
Settler: Good game. The charm’s all yours. That’s enough gambling for me.
Settler: My brother will die! Let me save him!
Oni Raider: He should’ve given us the rice! Now he’ll burn for it!
Atsu: Let her go!
Settler: Sanjuro! I’m coming!
Atsu: Wait!
Settler: Sanjuro, no…
Atsu: He’s gone… We have to go.
Settler: I can’t! My brother was all I had!
Atsu: You’ll burn with him.
Settler: He was my only family. I’d rather die than be without him.
Atsu: I understand.
Settler: Go. This is my choice. Please… Let me be with my brother. I’m not leaving, but you should.
Settler: Take it easy!
Atsu: Trouble with your horse?
Settler: I don’t know. This road is usually safe from the raiders. But he won’t budge.
Atsu: Well something spooked him.
Settler: Maybe a woman’s touch will help?
Atsu: I can try. Shh. What are you afraid of? Where are you going?
Settler: A bear! Please — save my horse!
Atsu: Hey! Easy, boy. The bear can’t hurt you anymore.
Settler: Oh, thank you! He’s alive!
Atsu: It’s a good thing he’s fast.
Settler: He learned the hard way. The Oni’s men have been stealing horses.
Atsu: Lots of ways to die in this land.
Settler: But not today. Thank you. Please, take this for your trouble.
Settler: If the raiders take over the fishery, we’ll all run out of blood.
Atsu: Who’s running out of food?
Settler: All of us. The Oni Raiders took over Nishin Fishery. What they catch feeds a lot of people across Ishikari Plain, and is sold to the rest of Ezo.
Atsu: Tell me where I can find this fishery.
Settler: By the shore, past Otaru Hills. Knowing the raiders, they plan on taking it all for themselves. What a disaster.
Atsu: Must be the fishing village I heard about. They were right. Raiders have taken over.
Settler: Why do we work day and night to feed the raiders while our families go hungry? So they won’t kill us, that’s why.
Atsu: There, that’s the last of them. The raiders can starve. And Saito along with them.
Settler: Stranger! Over here! Good work driving out those bastards.
Atsu: Dead raiders are better for everyone.
Settler: They were hoarding their spoils nearby. If you can find it, it’s yours. Consider it a reward.
Atsu: I’ll look around.
Settler: Hello. You ever see foxes playing with fireflies at night?
Atsu: They like butterflies, too.
Settler: I saw one run off by a tree with red leaves. If I followed, I might have found their secrets.
Atsu: I’ll have to take a look myself.
Settler: Bastards! Damn raiders.
Atsu: What happened?
Settler: Those that submit to the Oni put masks on their homes. To keep his raiders away. My brother and his family refused. They paid dearly for it.
Atsu: Sometimes you have to lie to survive.
Settler: I told my brother as much. But he just had to be…
Atsu: Brave.
Ina: Good to see you’re still alive, friend. With all that nitre we plundered from Saito’s men, I’ve got a collection of bombs available.
Atsu: What about the ones I have? Can you make them more effective?
Ina: If you have the right materials.
Ina: You know I never asked about the names you carry around your waist.
Atsu: Smart choice.
Ina: Right. I’m sure they won’t get you killed.
Atsu: All that matters is that they get what they deserve.
Ina: If you say so.
Atsu: I’ll see you around.
Ina: You know where to find me.
Atsu: “Light the fire. The flames will call me.”
Crimson Dye Merchant: The fire called me.
Atsu: I called you. Do you deal in crimson dyes?
Crimson Dye Merchant: Of course. Dye a garment crimson, and find the fire that keeps you alive.
Atsu: I’m not too fond of fire.
Crimson Dye Merchant: Fire cleanses wounds and keeps us warm. It can be as healing as it is destructive. Fight back. Stay alive.
Ginji: It is good to see you unscathed, my friend.
Atsu: My armour could use some work.
Ginji: I knew you’d miss my prodigious skills.
Ginji: That doesn’t smell half bad.
Atsu: You’d be the first to say that.
Ginji: I never cared much for food. Just tea and the occasional sweet. I do miss those sometimes. It’s good to see Bold Kaji Forge back in the hands of its blacksmiths. You did a good thing here, Atsu.
Atsu: Kotetsu’s family gets to see him again. That’s what matters.
Atsu: Will you be long?
Settler: Hard to say. I’m not done training yet.
Atsu: You should give that arm a rest.
Settler: Rest? With fire-spitting demons roaming Ishikari? If I don’t get stronger, I’ll end up as kindling.
Atsu: Train with me. You just might learn something.
Settler: Like what?
Atsu: Plenty. bamboo doesn’t fight back.
Settler: Tell me about it. I had the rotten luck to live in these demon infested hills.
Atsu: First to draw blood wins.
Settler: You’re incredible. Maybe I do need a break.
Settler: Wish I could swing a sword like that.
Matsumae: Sellsword! A reward if you fight with us! That is the last of the filth.
Matsumae: You. A word. Your pay, as promised. Where did you learn how to fight so well?
Atsu: By finishing battles for samurai like you.
Matsumae: A man with a shorter temper would arrest you for such a comment. But I cannot spare the time.
Atsu: Or the men.
Matsumae: Indeed. We have lost many in this campaign against the Oni. Still, we cannot allow him to repair that castle and complete Lord Saito’s seat of power.
Atsu: He won’t finish it.
Matsumae: I wish I had your confidence, stranger. Goodbye.