Old Trails
Saito Outlaw: You killed the Snake, yes? Let’s see what you have.
Atsu: It’s all right—I won’t hurt you. Where are you off to? The old stable… Father used to bring me here.
Stablemaster: Go on—get! There’s nothing here for you, stranger.
Atsu: Unusual for a stablemaster to send his horses into the wild.
Stablemaster: I’d rather them out there than in the hands of Lord Saito.
Atsu: Saito?
Stablemaster: He needs horses for his war against clan Mastumae. I held out as long as I could, but…
Saito Outlaw: Search the stables. Our scouts just saw them?
Stablemaster: No—they’re already here.
Atsu: Hide.
Saito Outlaw: See if any horses remain. The stablemaster must answer for his impudence. Keep looking. Burn this place down if we have to. So you’re the one who killed the Snake.
Atsu: You can come out—it’s over. They won’t bother you again.
Stablemaster: Thank you… Saito has everyone scared. I never expected…
Atsu: Need a hand finding your horses?
Stablemaster: You’ve already done so much—
Atsu: So what’s one more thing?
Stablemaster: Settlers used to take care of each other. My stables were funded by a great swordsmith.
Atsu: Master Kengo…
Stablemaster: What happened to him still haunts me.
Atsu: Is that why you defied Lord Saito?
Stablemaster: Out of loyalty to Kengo—and my horses.
Atsu: I know this place…
Stablemaster: These foals will be the death of me. I provide them with everything they need and they still run off.
Kengo: (Chuckles) Don’t worry—we’ll find them. I have plenty of experience tracking down unruly children.
Young Atsu: He enjoys it.
Stablemaster: I’m sure he does.
Kengo: We’ll have your foals home soon. Come, Atsu. See this?
Young Atsu: Is that… horse manure?
Kengo: Fresh horse manure. Our quarry was here—likely easing their thirst. You should follow the horse tracks in the mud.
Young Atsu: The hoofprints end here.
Kengo: We might have more luck the other way.
Young Atsu: Something’s been grazing on these flowers…
Kengo: Good eye—our foals were hungry. Left unchecked, the horses might pick this area clean of wildflowers. I’ll leave a charm to help them grow. Soon, there will be more than we can count. What do you think? Is this a good spot?
Young Atsu: Yes, but we’re no closer to finding the foals.
Kengo: We know they are around here… Maybe if you try whistling?
Young Atsu: (Whistle)
Kengo: I don’t think they can hear us… Let’s get to higher ground.
Young Atsu: It’s because I can’t whistle.
Kengo: You just need practice. Up this hill, come on. This should be high enough. Try again.
Young Atsu: I can’t do it—it’s too hard.
Kengo: Just because something is hard, doesn’t mean it’s not worth doing. Believe in yourself, Atsu.
Young Atsu: (Sighs) All right. (Whistle)
Kengo: Look! There’s movement at the treeline.
Young Atsu: Horses! We did it!
Kengo: Because you believed. Come, let us meet these wayward foals.
Young Atsu: Jubei’s going to be jealous he missed this.
Kengo: Don’t rub it in too much—he’s helping your mother.
Stablemaster: You have quite the whistle, young lady! I can’t thank you two enough.
Young Atsu: You could always give us a horse.
Kengo: Atsu… Don’t be rude.
Young Atsu: What? We found them. It’s a fair trade.
Stablemaster: (Chuckles) These foals are too young, but when you’re older—and if your father agrees—we’ll talk.
Atsu: Sixteen years later and you’re still losing horses to this pond?
Stablemaster: They’re drawn to the wildflowers—how did you…? You’re Kengo’s girl.
Atsu: You owe me a horse.
Stablemaster: I said we’d talk. Still got that good whistle?
Atsu: (Whistle)
Stablemaster: Kengo taught you well. He was saving to buy one of my horses. He said it was for the family business, but we both knew it was for you. Take one.
Atsu: I have a horse.
Stablemaster: Who’s been through a lot. My horses are the best in Ezo—give them a look/ Should you find one you like, I’ll watch over your current horse.
Atsu: (Chuckles) Restless, are we? Black. Like the charcoal in Father’s forge. You and I have gotten this far… Want to stick with me—or do you need a rest? Thanks for the offer, but I’m not ready to say goodbye just yet.
Stablemaster: He is lucky to have someone so loyal. What’s his name?
Atsu: I never asked… What should I call you, boy? Homura.
Stablemaster: Fire is essential for life, but difficult to tame… Keep looking out for each other. And good luck.
Atsu: I wonder if Father’s charm is still here… He was right… More flowers than we can count.
Building Bridges
Settler: My men could bring more lumber in a few days.
Matsumae: We can’t afford more sabotage. A mercenary. Are you for hire?
Atsu: I didn’t think the Matsumae worked with the likes of me.
Matsumae: Desperate times. It’s for the good of Ezo.
Atsu: You said something about sabotage?
Settler: My village has generously supplied lumber to finish clan Matsumae’s bridge. But someone keeps burning our work.
Matsumae: Saito’s outlaws are the most likely culprits. I can’t spare the men to guard the bridge overnight. That is where you come in.
Atsu: I just need a place to stay out of sight.
Matsumae: A spyglass. I haven’t seen one of these since the Portuguese.
Atsu: There. I’ll have the best vantage point.
Settler: I’ll stay with you.
Atsu: I can’t guarantee your safety.
Settler: It is my people’s lumber and hard work that are on the line here. Besides, you can’t stay up all night.
Matsumae: It’s settled then. If possible, I want them alive — for questioning.
Atsu: I never thought a samurai would waste their time building bridges with the common folk.
Matsumae: Our duty is to bring order to Ezo. People need roads, do they not? Some of us would like to make the north a home. A real one. I will see you on the morrow.
Settler: Makes you almost want to believe in them, doesn’t he? The Matsumae.
Atsu: You think he’s lying about trying to help?
Settler: I think he believes he is helping. But he is still a samurai. It never occurred to ask the people living here if we even wanted a bridge.
Atsu: We’ll set up camp here.
Settler: I can take the first watch…?
Atsu: Atsu.
Sanjuro: Sanjuro. I’ll wake you up if I see anything.
Atsu: Sanjuro? Where the hell is he?
Ronin: Burn the bridge. Keep a lookout for clan Matsumae.
Atsu: They don’t look like Saito’s men. He must have hired ronin to burn the bridge.
Atsu: Need a hand?
Ronin: Enough!
Atsu: Move and you die.
Atsu: Nice of you to join us, Sanjuro.
Sanjuro: No one was supposed to get hurt… I’m sorry.
Atsu: You hired the ronin to burn the bridge.
Sanjuro: The whole village pitched in. The bridge is just another way for the Shogun to ‘civilise’ Ezo. Bringing in southerners who will treat us no better than dirt. Walk away. The Matsumae don’t care for your kind anyway.
Atsu: Even so, that samurai is trying to make a difference. And he didn’t lie to my face. Talk to him. Tell him what your people actually need.
Sanjuro: He would never listen.
Atsu: We’ll see.
Sanjuro: Go ahead. Execute me for my crimes, oh, grand lord of the south.
Matsumae: Enough blood has been shed tonight. Go. And remember this kindness when you speak with others.
Sanjuro: This won’t change anything.
Atsu: You have a lot to prove to these people.
Matsumae: I know.
Atsu: Why don’t you start by telling me about the Yōtei Six.
Matsumae: What do you want to know?
Atsu: Know anything about the Kitsune?
Matsumae: Only that he’s in the haunted wastes of Teshio Ridge. Just the other day, a fool told me he was heading into Sakuru Woods to find a story there. Some nonsense about yuki mushi and a kimono.
Atsu: Sounds like Ugetsu. What’s he chasing down this time?
A Fleeting Thought
Matsumae: Watch out! There’s more of them!
Atsu: A Matsumae scout. Looks like they could use a hand.
Saito Outlaw: Lord Saito will pay me well for you. Dead or alive.
Atsu: Where’s that Matsumae?
Matsumae: I guess there’s worse ways to die, huh?
Atsu: A samurai that dies fighting, dies with honour.
Matsumae: No one ever tells you how pretty it is up here.
The Worth of a Man
Matsumae: Please. I can’t take this anymore.
Ronin: Quiet, samurai. Can I help you with something?
Atsu: Who’s the samurai?
Ronin: You mean our little bound pet? He is part of the Matsumae clan. They are going after Saito and his men.
Atsu: Why torture him? What do you get out of it?
Ronin: His clan is one of the reasons we are stuck in this hellhole to begin with. Their side won at Sekigahara. They have the Shogun’s favour while us ‘ronin’ were chased away as rats. His screams help me sleep at night.
Atsu: I really wish you hadn’t said that.
Ronin: Lord Saito will pay well for you. Cut her down! Stop her!
Matsumae: How much was I worth?
Atsu: Enough to keep your honour, samurai.
Matsumae: Why help me? The Matsumae are not exactly popular around here.
Atsu: Killing an enemy is one thing. Playing with your food is another.
Matsumae: I see. I wish I were in a position to return this favour.
Atsu: Maybe you can. I’m looking for the Yōtei Six.
Matsumae: What do you want to know?
Atsu: I know your clan is fighting the Oni in Ishikari Plain. How do I get there?
Matsumae: We’ve closed access to Ishikari Plain until the region is safe.
Atsu: I can’t wait that long.
Matsumae: Tell that to the men guarding our checkpoint. It’s near the Golden Foothills in the Yōtei Grasslands. I should get back to my garrison now. Thank you.
Lost in Reflection
Gessho: He said east. Maybe over that way? That can’t be right.
Atsu: This is a dangerous place to get lost.
Gessho: I am aware. But nothing ventured, nothing gained. I am a monk, you see. Gessho to my friends. What I search for is worth it. Places of reflection, altars set by those who seek to find their path.
Atsu: I remember the statues. My father helped some farmers place one when I was you.
Gessho: Ah, you are a local! May I convince you to keep me company as I search? Your eyes might see something I can’t.
Atsu: (Sigh) It is bad luck to leave as spiritual man alone in the woods.
Gessho: I will take that as a yes. Let us proceed!
Atsu: Why is this so important that you find these altars?
Gessho: With the amount of ronin making their way to Ezo, I fear the peaceful lives many enjoy here will go extinct. But if I can show them how to take a moment. To think. To breathe… They could find a new way of doing things. The trees here look young.
Atsu: I’ll cut through – see if they’re hiding something. The altar… it looks like the one Father placed.
Gessho: Let us take a moment, to reflect on who we are. Who we were. And who we want to be. We learn something from every person we meet. I am glad my path now includes you, traveller.
Saito Outlaw: Well, what do we have here? An old man and a woman… Don’t you know these woods belong to Lord Saito.
Atsu: Get behind me.
Gessho: These are just the sort of men who could use a moment of reflection. But at least I was right to trust you. Here. Take this with my gratitude.
Atsu: You were also right about the altars. They’re worth looking for.
Gessho: Then make sure to speak with Isaburo – the cartographer. I’ve been helping him record the locations of these altars across Ezo. Isaburo travels around, but he was staying at the Yôtei’s Shadow Inn. Of course, it was before Saito’s men made themselves at home.
Atsu: Thanks for the warning.
Gessho: Safe travels, my friend.
Atsu: Try to stay out of trouble this time.
Gessho: (Laughs)
Atsu: What’s a monk doing here? Don’t see many monks this far north. It’s dangerous to travel alone.
Settler: I have trained on mountain trails my entire life. I can handle a few bandits, don’t you worry.
Atsu: This looks like a shrine path.
Settler: People who come to Ezo often find themselves lost, seeking guidance. So they build shrines and look to nature to remind them of their place in the world.
Atsu: My mother used to say the spirits would grant you their blessings—if you kept them company.
Settler: Nature and its spirits remain untouched by the greed of the south. At least, for now… (sigh) Stay safe, stranger.
The Loss We Carry
Ronin A: Look at this one picking at corpses! No shame at all!
Taro: What of it?
Ronin: Og, I see. You actually want to join the dead!
Atsu: Leave the kid alone.
Ronin A: This is none of your business, lady.
Ronin B: Hey. I think that’s her. The one who killed the Snake.
Ronin A: She doesn’t look like a ghost to me.
Atsu: Do we have a problem?
Ronin B: It’s not worth it, let’s go.
Ronin A: Pfft.
Atsu: Are you all right?
Taro: Of course. I mean, I had that handled but… (groan)
Atsu: Sit. I’ll make us a fire. You shouldn’t pick fights you can’t win.
Taro: I’ve had worse. The cost of running a successful business. Don’t burn them!
Atsu: You want to do this?
Taro: Heh, no. You got it. The customer is always right!
Atsu: What’s your name, kid?
Taro: Taro. What’s yours?
Atsu: Atsu. Where are your parents?
Taro: Around.
Atsu: So why are you picking corpses?
Taro: It’s called starting a business. I pick from the dead and sell it to the living. Only the high quality goods my customers deserve, of course. Don’t believe me? See here this finely crafted armour. All yours. Just a taste of what you can expect from your favourite tradesman.
Atsu: Stay out of trouble.
Taro: I will cower and run at the first sign of danger.
Toku: Don’t you be like that. Dinner isn’t ready, Shino. What do we have here? Another wanderer like ourselves? Don’t worry, we’re not armed.
Atsu: What’s her name?
Toku: Shino. The most spoiled bear in the world. Mine is Toku. We were about to have a meal. You look like you could use one. Now, come! Eat something.
Atsu: Nothing out here comes for free.
Toku: (Chuckels) Time is valuable. Give me a moment of yours and it may be worth it for us both. A little girl used to live nearby—Mari. She loved playing with Shino, but… She died a year ago. I wanted to leave a charm on her grave. I’m ashamed to say I sold it when things became… dire last winter.
Atsu: You want me to get it back.
Toku: And place it on Mari’s grave. I have money — I can pay you.
Atsu: Then why not get it yourself?
Toku: I sold the charm to a scavenger. Taro something or other. I prefer to stay away from folks who spend their days among the dead. It pollutes the body.
Atsu: Says the man who smells like a bear. No offence, Shino.
Toku: Taro tends to make camp by Dead Man’s Tree. Keep to the mountains and go north. Mari’s grave is at the edge of Tokachi Range.
Atsu: I’ll see what I can do.
Taro: Atsu! Welcome to my humble shop!
Atsu: It’s… nice.
Taro: It’s a rock and a fire, but we all have to start somewhere!
Atsu: Why set up here?
Taro: I need an easy place to spot for weary travellers. Start making a name for myself.
Atsu: Or to attract unwanted attention.
Taro: You’re the one with a bounty, my friend. I am sure everything will be just fine.
Atsu: I was actually looking for a charm. A man with a bear sold it to you?
Taro: Oh. Yes. He didn’t like me much. But I liked his bear. You can take it if you got the coin.
Saito Outlaw: Taro! You dirty little corpse grubbing thief! I want that armour you stole!
Atsu: Is that the same armour you gave me?
Taro: Most likely.
Atsu: (Groans) You little…
Saito Outlaw: I surrender! You are going to regret this. That worm isn’t even human. He spends his day digging through corpses.
Atsu: How about you focus on me instead? Go back to wherever you came from. No one bothers this kid again or I will gut you myself.
Taro: You heard her! Yes! That was incredible!
Atsu: You gave me stolen armour.
Taro: Is it really stealing if you do it to someone no one likes? Look, I’m not the one killing innocent people and leaving their corpses behind to burn under the sun. If anyone should be ashamed, it’s Saito and his stupid lackeys.
Atsu: You’re right. We’ve all done things to survive.
Taro: People just…like having someone to look down on.
Atsu: Let them. You know who you are.
Taro: Thanks…
Settler: Have some respect for the dead!
Saito Outlaw: Pay us or you will join them.
Settler: I have nothing!
Settler: Thank you, stranger. It is the mark of true evil to assault a father at his daughter’s grave.
Atsu: You’re Mari’s father?
Settler: How do you know that name?
Atsu: Toku and Shino wanted me to bring this charm to her.
Settler: He’s the reason my child lies beneath the ground. His bear tore through my little girl… We want nothing from him. Keep that charm and slit that animal’s throat.
Atsu: (Sigh) Toku… you should’ve told me the full story.
Toku: Ah, my friend! Were you able to find the charm?
Atsu: Mari’s father was at her grave. What happened?
Toku: Mari loved spending time with Shino. But her father thought very little of me. One day he came, angry and drunk. Put a knife to my throat. Shino was just trying to protect me.
Atsu: Mari got in the way.
Toku: Shino is not to blame. If Mari’s father wants justice, kill me.
Atsu: Even if I wanted to, I doubt Shino would let me .
Toku: You’re right. She’s dangerous as long as I’m around. I have to leave. Then Shino won’t need to protect me anymore.
Atsu: I won’t stop you — but Shino might.
Toku: I can’t stand goodbyes. Please break the news to her after I leave. And would you… take care of her for me? Maybe feed her once in a while.
Atsu: I can do that.
Toku: Thank you.
Atsu: I’m sorry, Shino. Toku isn’t coming back.
Sleight of Hand
Ronin: You look like you can handle yourself in a fight. Do you like making coin, stranger?
Atsu: I can be persuaded.
Ronin: Let’s meet at the dock on Lake Kuttara. I will mark the spot on your map and explain there.
Ronin: There you are, stranger. Grab a rod. We’re just two peasants fishing for our next meal.
Atsu: Who are we hiding from?
Ronin: Thugs who’ll slice our throats for no reason at all.
Atsu: A lot of those in Ezo these days.
Ronin: It’s Lord Saito’s men. I owe that sake house back there. A little drink, a little gambling. Saito’s thugs came in, got drunk, and decided it was their sake house.
Atsu: So take it back.
Ronin: I let others take risky bets. I’m just one man, outnumbered.
Atsu: And a woman evens the odds?
Ronin: A woman who carries a blade like that? I like our chances.
Atsu: I have no love for Saito, but this blade doesn’t work for free.
Ronin: You get my money back and a share of it is yours.
Atsu: All right. Deal.
Ronin: We should give them enough time to get drunk and stupid.
Ronin: Are you ready?
Atsu: Let’s do it. I can smell the sake on them from here.
Ronin: Nice and easy. Just a husband and wife out for a stroll.
Atsu: For that I’ll charge you double.
Ronin: What’s that, dear? You’d like to do a little gambling? I think we’re in luck. This fine establishment looks inviting.
Saito’s Ronin: And then, you know what I did? I…huh… (Laughs) I’m too drunk to remember.
Ronin: You take the one on the left.
Saito’s Ronin: This is strong sake. We own place the now. Maybe we can charge double for it.
Ronin: A good start. Let’s head inside. Time to earn your mon. The rest of them are in here. Let’s go. Impressive! They won’t get away! Looks like I’ll have to redecorate.
Atsu: After you pay me. Where’s the money?
Ronin: Upstairs. They moved the stash. Help me look around.
Atsu: You sure the money’s here? I don’t—
Ronin: Careful! That was close.
Atsu: I think I found our money. A gunman by that campfire.
Ronin: He’s a pretty good shot, too. He’s all yours.
Atsu: Such a gentleman.
Ronin: Someone has to stay back and cover you.
Atsu: Just watch where you aim.
Saito Outlaw: I owe the Snake my life! You will die for what you did!
Atsu: It’s over. You can put the rifle down.
Ronin: I don’t think so.
Atsu: So that’s my payment? A bullet in the face?
Ronin: I know how this works. You only helped so you can kill me and take the mon.
Atsu: That’s not how I work.
Ronin: It’s how things always work in Ezo.
Atsu: Not always—only since the Yōtei Six took over. The money is yours. Minus my pay.
Ronin: Sorry, I didn’t mean anything by it. I hope you’ll stick around. Ezo needs more people like you.
Atsu: I wasn’t planning on going anywhere.
Ronin: Then stop by and try your luck at zeni hajiki. Give me a chance to win back some of your pay.
Atsu: Thanks. I might just do that.
Ronin: Ah, stranger! Here to take me up on my offer? I’m glad to see there’s a gambler in all of us.
Atsu: As long as it doesn’t involve a rifle in my face.
Ronin: That? Water under the bridge. We’re friends now.
Atsu: Are we?
Ronin: We faced certain death together. And I paid you, didn’t I? And now, I’m giving you a chance to double that. Play a game of zeni hajiki with me.
Atsu: I don’t know much about the game. I’ll probably just lose.
Ronin: Never know till you try.
Atsu: Zeni hajiki. I think I remember how to play…
Yone: Zeni hajiki is a game of patience and strategy.
Young Atsu: So you’ll teach me?
Yone: Help me set up the table. Pick a coin—and we’ll start with the basics.
Young Atsu: This one feels lucky.
Yone: That’s what they all say. Now pick the other coin—and aim it back at this one.
Young Atsu: I have my eye on it.
Yone: Perfect. Now flick that coin as hard as you can. Well done. If you hit a coin, you get to keep playing.
Young Atsu: And if I miss, my opponent gets a turn.
Yone: That’s right. You must know what happens when you hit a coin so hard it flies off the table.
Young Atsu: Father always does that. So he loses his turn…?
Yone: And I take his coin. The cost of brute strength. Remember. Gently. My daughter has a gentle side. Who knew?
Young Atsu: I’m full of surprises.
Yone: In zeni hajiki, you can only hit one coin at a time.
Young Atsu: Right. Hit more than one coin, and I lose my turn.
Yone: You’re taking to this well.
Young Atsu: I’m ready for a real game.
Yone: You will be—after one final lesson. Pick a coin and choose wisely. Consider your first shot… and your next. Good. Now what?
Young Atsu: I take my next shot with the coin I just hit.
Yone: Remember to think ahead. Pick a better starting point. Try something with a different coin. See where that takes you.
Young Atsu: I did it!
Yone: Sometimes it pays to listen to your mother.
Ronin: Beginner’s luck, huh? You sure you’ve never played before?
Atsu: Hmm? No, I’m good at swinging a katana. Flicking little chips around, not so much.
Ronin: Years ago, I knew a woman. She came in here. Meek, quiet. Everyone looked past her. Until she took all our money.
Atsu: Smart woman.
Ronin: She said she had two little mouths to feed. Needed the coin.
Atsu: Oh? What was her name?
Ronin: Hard to remember when I’m losing like this. Play again?
Atsu: I’m ready if you are.
Ronin: You’re no beginner.
Atsu: But I am richer. Tell me more about this woman you mentioned.
Ronin: She played us for fools, like you’re doing now. Made out like a bandit.
Atsu: Whatever it takes to survive.
Ronin: It was for her twin children. Her ‘Little Wolves’. She talked about them all the time. I always wondered what happened to her. One day she just stopped coming in.
Atsu: Maybe she had a run in with the Yōtei Six.
Ronin: Ah, just rumours. I hope her children did well. They were lucky to have a mother like that.
Atsu: Yes… I’m sure they were.
Ronin: Anyway, you’ve robbed me long enough. Here, take this charm—a gift saving my inn. And maybe never come back?
A Drink With a Stranger
Atsu: An Ainu trader. Huna he!
Ainu: Ah. Huna he, katkemat. I’d offer you my finest askur this side of Mount Yōtei, but my wares are sparse at the moment.
Atsu: Askur. That is a kind of sake, isn’t it? But better tasting. I’ve always wanted to try it. My father traded a few bottles but guarded them like a hawk.
Ainu: Ha! A man of good taste. A pity bandits don’t share that appreciation.
Atsu: You were robbed?
Ainu: Unfortunately. They swung the last of my askur past the cliff. Made sure these old bones couldn’t reach it.
Atsu: Show me.
Ainu: They wanted coin. My people don’t have any use for it. We prefer to barter. Bartering is easier when exchanging goods with all kinds of peoples, even from across the seas. I tried telling them this.
Atsu: I assume they weren’t impressed.
Ainu: They slung the askur over to that spire below us.
Atsu: There is a climbing path, of sorts. I could get to it.
Ainu: Uh, yes, but that… is a very long way to fall.
Atsu: It would be a pity to never taste the best askur this side of Ezo.
Ainu: You cannot be serious. There’s no need. What’s done is done.
Atsu: Don’t look down. That smells good. The bottle is… unique.
Ainu: Ha! As fearless as the great okikurmi, this one! The askur is yours, friend.
Atsu: This bottle isn’t Ainu made.
Ainu: A trade from the repunkur people that live in the icy plains across the sea. Their artistry with lacquer is unmatched. Now go on, that askur won’t drink itself!
Atsu: Worth the climb.
Ainu: Ha! That’s what I like to hear. My village is past the Great Lake, if you run empty.
Atsu: Good to know. Stay out of trouble.
Ainu: Apunno paye yan.
A Normal Life
Settler: I’ll tell you the same thing I told your friends. Been fishing in this river for twenty years. I’m not leaving to work for a band of thugs.
Atsu: You have me confused with someone else.
Settler: Oh. I saw your sword. Mistook you for one of Saito’s dogs. Every couple days they come barking at me. “Put down that fishing rod and serve Lord Saito,” they say. They can go to hell.
Atsu: Must be tough trying to live a normal life.
Settler: There is no normal anymore.
Atsu: Since you’re no friend to Saito, maybe you can help me. I’m looking for information about the Yōtei Six.
Settler: What do you want to know?
Atsu: What do you know about the Oni?
Settler: He has a small army in Ishikari Plain. They’re vicious and loyal. Call themselves the Oni Raiders. Last I heard, they were looking for a bomb maker in Otaru Hills.
Atsu: A bomb maker? Sounds like someone worth talking to.
Settler: (Groans) They’re back again. Saito’s dogs.
Saito Outlaw: Fisherman! You consider my offer?
Settler: I’m not serving Saito! I won’t say it again!
Saito Outlaw: Well, if you insist!
Atsu: No!
Atsu: You were brave. Sorry I couldn’t do more.
The Ainu Heirloom
Atsu: Ainu fish carvings. Intricate work. It must mean a lot to someone. Maybe Ainu traders will know what it is.
Atsu: Ainu travellers. It’s been a while.
Ainu Merchant: We don’t want any trouble.
Atsu:: Neither do I, nispa.
Ainu Merchant: Not a lot of your people know our language.
Atsu: My father always said if you want to survive up here, there’s no one better to ask than the Ainu.
Ainu Merchant: (Chuckle) My people were here first, weren’t we? You will have to forgive my rudeness. There has been a lot of turmoil in these parts as of late. Please, come. We were just about ready to start a meal.
Ainu A: This meal would be made better with a drink.
Ainu B: Did we run out of askur?
Ainu Merchant: Ureporo was supposed to bring some, but he hasn’t shown up. Last I heard he was trading with foreigners around Cape Shinodai.
Ainu A: A shame.
Atsu: You mentioned you’ve had trouble.
Ainu Merchant: Wherever you go, people are looking for a fight. These ronin from across the waters, the Yōtei Six, even clan Matsumae.
Atsu: I found this in the grasslands. The carvings look Ainu. Any idea what it is?
Ainu Merchant: An ikupasuy. Those carvings in the tongue mark what family it belongs to. Fishermen from Husko Kotan. This is something they would miss dearly. I am sure they’d be grateful if you could return it.
Atsu: I’ll try, if I’m in the area. Have you had dealings with the Yōtei Six?
Ainu Merchant: Their leader approached several Ainu leaders for an alliance against clan Matsumae. They refused. We welcome others to our lands, but we don’t start wars for them.
Atsu: How did Saito react?
Ainu Merchant: (Sad chuckle) Not well. His men are no friends of ours. Many of my people have already moved away to avoid getting involved.
Atsu: You still trade with Clan Matsumae?
Ainu Merchant: We have a mutually beneficial relationship. But things have been… strained recently. They’ve closed their borders, readying for war against this Lord Saito. And there are rumblings their Shogun looks upon the Ainu trade routes with envy.
Atsu: War has changed a lot of things in the mainland.
Ainu Merchant: Hmm.
Atsu: Do you have anything to trade?
Ainu Merchant: Always. Take a look.
Atsu: I should get going.
Ainu Merchant: We should make ready as well. We spent the summer at our villages past the mountains. Now we go to Husko Kotan, past the Great Lake. Should you be looking for the right tools to survive out here, I recommend you stop by.
Atsu: I will think about it. Stay safe.
Atsu: Should ask one of the fishermen about the carving I found.
Child: Oh, no. Unarpe, he! Can I see that ikupasuy you carry?
Atsu: Do you recognise the fish carvings?
Child: I — yes. This way. Follow.
Atsu: Are we going to your parents?
Child: There is no time! Just come. The ikupasuy goes here.
Atsu: Now, will you tell me what’s going on?
Ainu: Yes, Okkaypo, tell the nice lady how much trouble you are in.
Child: (Surprised yelp)
Ainu: We are not done, Okkaypo! I apologise for him.
Atsu: No need. Are you the owner of this… ikupasuy?
Ainu: My little brother hid it on our last visit to the kotan past the mountains.
Atsu: My brother liked to hide things, too.
Ainu: Unfortunately for my brother, an ikupasuy is not a plaything. It is a tool to commune with our ancestors. Our father passed away last winter. Using the ikupasuy means accepting, he’s moved on to a different path.
Atsu: It’s not easy when you are that young. He is lucky he still has you.
Ainu: And I am lucky his mischief led a beautiful woman to my doorstep. Please, take this for the trouble he’s caused.
Atsu: Charmer…
Ainu: Katkemat, where did you find that necklace? A necklace of Ainu make. Mothers pass those down to their daughters. How did youtube it?
Atsu: It was left behind on the ground.
Ainu: I’ve lost important things running away from fights your people start.
Atsu: I wish I could get it back to them.
Ainu: At least the necklace found a daughter to go to. Take care of it.
Ainu: That knife. Katkemat, a word if you would? Are you planning on proposing marriage to someone?
Atsu: Uh — no?
Ainu: (Chuckle) That knife you carry — Ainu men use them to court their beloved.
Atsu: I think bad men took it by force.
Ainu: I see. At least now it’s with someone who knows its importance.
Atsu: Stay away from Saito and his men. Nothing good will come of it.
Ainu: You are carrying Ainu clothing made for the dead. We burn those to send them to people who have passed. They’re important.
Atsu: The place I found them at was attacked. There was nothing left.
Ainu: So much fighting for no good reason. I recognise the make of these. I can take them to the right kotan for burning.
Atsu: Please, do.
Ainu: A mukkuri. Where did you find that? My mother used to play the mouth harp all the time around the house.
Atsu: I could leave it with you.
Ainu: Lost things leave when they seek adventure. Keep it. Maybe learn how to play it yourself sometime.
Ainu: A matampus. Why do you carry that? It’s one of ours. Men use that headwear in our ceremonies. How —?
Atsu: I think the owner was taken by some bad people.
Ainu: We lose so many to violence… Keep it. Let it remind you what this sisam conflict has done to people like us.
Mountain Bear’s Pride
Manjuro: Lord Saito. Please accept this sword—No! That’s all wrong. Lord Saito. I will train day and night… (sigh) I sound like a child. Oh! Uh. Greetings, warrior. You may call me Manjuro, Bear of Ezo.
Atsu: You’re training loudly, Manjuro. Bear of Ezo.
Manjuro: You jest. I may look like a simple farmer now. But I will be joining Lord Saito’s grand army soon. He will make sure I become a samurai. A proper one.
Atsu: Saito will just use you as fodder against the Matsumae.
Manjuro: You dare question Lord Saito’s honour? I—I challenge you. A fight to the death!
Atsu: I’m not here to fight amateurs.
Manjuro: You think I’m not good enough?
Atsu: I think you’re going to get yourself killed.
Manjuro: You just wait.
Manjuro: I’ve been looking for you! I, Manjuro, Bear of Ezo, future samurai of Clan Saito, am here to challenge you once more!
Atsu: Think this through, Manjuro.
Manjuro: I know who you are now. I saw the bounty. Lord Saito wants your head. If I deliver it, he will make me a samurai.
Atsu: Saito is a thug. Your sword can do more good as your own.
Manjuro: I am a nobody. To samurai like the Matsumae, I am no better than dirt. But Lord Saito doesn’t care what family you are from or what crest you carry. I can take what I am owed.
Atsu: Saito doesn’t care, because you’re nothing but fresh meat for his army. But if you want to die for him, I’ll do you that favour.
Manjuro: Tsk!
Atsu: Is that…? Manjuro!
Manjuro: I die an honourable death. In battle. Like a samurai.
Atsu: (Sighs) Rest well, Manjuro, Bear of Ezo.
Matsumae: You knew him?
Atsu: He just wanted to be like you. A proper samurai.
Matsumae: Then he picked the wrong side.
Atsu: I’m sorry.
Pillars of the Fallen
Settler: Hello. Wait, that sash… Why do you have Lord Saito’s name on your sash?
Atsu: That’s not something you have to worry about. What are you doing here?
Settler: Remembering my husband, one of many samurai cut down by Lord Saito for refusing to join him.
Atsu: It takes courage to stand up to a prick like Saito.
Settler: Thank you. My husband was the bravest man I ever met. There are more pillars like this across Ezo. One for every samurai who resisted him.
Atsu: They’ll all have their vengeance one day.
Settler: I hope so. I want you to take my husband’s sword kit. If you are what I think you are, he’d want you to have it.
Atsu: I won’t let him down. I’ll take good care of this.
Settler: See that you do. I hope Saito never erects one of these pillars for you.
Mountain Reliquary
Settler: The statue truly captures her strength. A good place to leave her our offerings. Oh. Are you here to worship the mountain?
Atsu: It’s been years since my last offering. My brother’s favourite story was about the mountain that raised an orphan boy. And the wolves that guided him to the safety of her shadow.
Settler: My grandmother used to say these sculptures were made by that same orphan boy. Hiding gifts for anyone born under the mountain’s shadow, as long as they are smart enough to discover its secrets.
Atsu: So they hold riddles?
Settler: Makes you curious, doesn’t it? I’ve never figured them out myself.
Atsu: Maybe. Riddles that hide gifts from the mountain, hm?
Atsu: There really was something in that statue. Thank you.
Atsu: There were more hidden gifts in the statue. The mountain is generous.
Atsu: The craftsmanship is beautiful. It’s in good hands. I promise
Atsu: I will honour your story. Boy who lived under the mountain.