Utawareru Mono Summary

By Mastress Alita

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Note: My knowledge of Japanese is very limited and this summary was made heavily from information gathered from using Anime Game Text Hooker + Atlas Japanese Translation Software for translation. Therefore, there are likely going to be errors. If you find incorrect information, please let me know so I can fix it.

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Part 1


A man wakes up in a strange place. He sees a girl above him telling him that everything is going to be fine, and he fades back into sleep, listening to a soft singing.

The next day he awakes and the girl is there, telling him to keep still because he has suffered a terrible injury. Confused, she tells him that she is Eruruu and he is in her home. She asks if he remembers, that he fell in the forest. She found him wounded and brought him to her home and he had been asleep for three days in critical condition. She tells him that everything will be alright, as her grandma and herself have been taking care of his wounds. He thanks her and falls back asleep.

~~~~~

He awakes the next day and sees a young girl looking over him. As soon as he opens his eyes, she wanders off. Even though it brings him great pain, he stands, taking in his surroundings. He steps outside, and Eruruu sees him. She rushes to him and tells him he must go back in and rest, that he is too hurt to be moving around yet. He insists that he is okay, and she tells him that it is a very severe injury and should still be resting, and helps him back to the house.

Inside, she tends to his wounds, and he thanks her again. She then asks him what his name is. He realizes that he cannot remember his own name, nor how he got the injury. Eruruu's grandmother then comes into the room with more medicine and says he has amnesia. Eruruu asks if something can be done, and her grandmother says that there is no medicine that can bring back someone's lost memory, they'd just have to wait for it to come back around. She says the important thing is for him to heal, and he goes back to bed.

He wakes later that night in extreme pain, but feels a cold rag on his head. He looks up, and notices it is a young girl, not Eruruu, and assumes it must be her sister. He then notices her ears and tail, which he'd never noticed before. Not sure if he's just seeing things, he reaches out a hand to feel and she scampers off.

Then Eruruu comes to see him. She lays him back down and says he is looking a bit better. She asks if he has remembered his name yet, which he hasn't. She says he must be hungry and starts feeding him some porridge. As he eats, he notices her ears and tail as well. She asks what it is, and then he reaches out to stroke them, finding that he isn't just seeing things, they are real. Surprised, she pushes him away, but then apologizes, saying he scared her suddenly touching her tail like that.

She then says that she needs to wipe off his face and asks for him to remove his mask. He is very confused by this, so she holds up a mirror to show him and says she tried to remove it but couldn't. The man looks shocked at seeing the white mask with the small horns on his face. He tries to remove it but becomes overwhelmed in pain. He tries again with no luck -- the mask won't come off, and trying to do so brings him pain. He has no idea what it is or how it got there.

~~~~~

The next day, the man is up and Eruruu asks if he is really okay, and he says he needs to get up and walk a little to heal rather than just stay in bed all the time. Eruruu's grandmother asks if he has recalled anything, and when he confirms he hasn't, she says that he must be given a name cause they have to call him something, and she gives him the name "Hakuoro" until he can get his memory back. Then she gives him some clothes that belonged her to son. He asks Eruruu if they suit him and she says they do very much. He thanks the grandmother and she tells him her name is Tousukuru.

[Visit outside]

Hakuoro and Eruruu go outside. They walk for a moment but he gets tired and asks if they could rest for a moment. Then a man approaches Eruruu and asks her who this strange "masked stranger" is. She explains that he is the one she found wounded and they have been taking care of him. He says that he looks suspicious and asks if she is alright, and she says it is an awful rude way to greet someone. This calms him down and he introduces himself as Teoro, who is considered a "father" to the people there. He introduces himself as "Hakuoro" and he looks surprised; Eruruu explains that her grandmother picked out the name because he has amnesia. A woman then comes over, and is introduced by Eruruu as her "elder sister" and wife of Teoro, Sopoku. Hakuoro is confused by her saying it is her sister, and she explains that they aren't blood related, she is simply like an elder sister figure to her. He is then introduced to some of the villagers.

They talk about how the villagers have been rebuilding a building in the village that was damaged in an earthquake recently. The eldest of the villagers says he remembered the last earthquake like that being when he was young. The whole village seems to have a very "family" like quality between all the members, and Teoro formally welcomes Hakuoro and starts referring to him as "Anchan" (brother).

Teoro and the others leave, and Hakuoro remarks that everyone is friendly and seems like a good person, and Eruruu says this is true.

[Visit fields]

The walk past the fields and Hakuoro asks if they have always been so barren. Eruruu says that they've had no luck with getting growth there, no matter how much they plant and water it. She says that after so many tries they should give up. She then asks if he is ready to leave.

[At the house]

Back at the house, they hear a girl's voice. The little girl is there, and Eruruu
introduces her, Aruruu, her little sister, to Hakuoro. She quickly leaves, and Eruruu
says she must just be surprised to see him wearing their father's clothes because he looks similar to him. She says their father died, and their mother died giving birth to Aruruu. He says he is sorry, and she replies that it happened when they were very young. She says that "Hakuoro" was her father's name.

That evening after resting, he wakes up hungry, having had nothing to eat since the porridge the night before. He goes out to the main room, where Eruruu and Aruruu are making dinner. Tousukuru notes the big feast being prepared and Eruruu says it is in celebration of Hakuoro's recovery. They say a prayer to Yaanaun, the Forest God, and Witsuarunemitia, the great God, and then have dinner. Tousukuru invites Hakuoro to stay with them and asks Eruruu and Aruruu if it is alright; they agree and he thanks them.

That night as he lays down for bed, he wonders just who he is, but before thinking on it much falls asleep.

~~~~~

[Visit outside]

The next day, Hakuoro steps outside. He sees a yawning Aruruu. So far she has always avoided him, and he wonders why, so he decides to take a chance to talk to her while she is still half asleep. He sneaks up to her quietly, and unnoticed, reaches out to pat her hair. She doesn't take notice of him and starts wagging her tail, but then he makes a noise and she is made aware and runs off again. He notices her looking at him from around a corner, and he motions her to come, and she runs off, and he decides his attempt was a failure.

[Visit field]

Hakuoro goes to the field and starts hoeing. Teoro visits him and asks what he is
doing, and he says that everyone else is working and he should be as well. Hakuoro wants to try to fix the soil in the field so that it may be able to harvest their Mororo plants again, and gets support and help from the other villagers.

[At the house]

When Hakuoro enters, Aruruu once again scampers away.

A little later in the day Eruruu and Aruruu leave on an errand, and Tousukuru asks
Hakuoro if he will join them. They leave, and Eruruu tells him they are going
to the forest to collect medical herbs. When entering the forest, Eruruu and Aruruu say a prayer to the Forest God Yaanaun. There is a legend that the evil god Muteikapa lives in the forest for which they need protection. Hakuoro finds it a bit amusing that they would believe such a rumor. Hakuoro asks if the forest is safe then, and Eruruu says that it is fine because they aren't going very far in and it's daytime, but going into the interior at night is very dangerous.

The two girls busy themselves picking plants, humming. Hakuoro tries to help Eruruu, and she describes different plants and herbs. When she's ready to leave, she notices Aruruu is missing. They find her up in a tree eating an apple, and Eruruu demands she come back down. Aruruu had climbed too high and was too scared to get back down, so Hakuoro decides to climb the tree to get Aruruu down. He extends a hand to her, but she doesn't take it. He tries to coax her down, and the branch snaps and she starts to fall, and he snatches her and breaks her fall.

Now late into the evening, after dark, they return to the village. Eruruu is angry because she got so scared at what happened, but starts to calm back down. Aruruu fell asleep being carried back on Hakuoro's back, and in her sleep mumbles, "Father." Hakuoro asks Eruruu if he looks that old to be called father, and gets a laugh out of her.

~~~~~

[Visit field]

The next day Hakuoro once again goes to the field. Eruruu and Sopoku come with some items that he tells them to mix together and put on the field to help the plants grow. They wonder if such a "charm" will work.

[Visit bedroom]

Back at the house, Aruruu sees Hakuoro. Ever since the event at the forest, Hakuoro expects their relationship to be better now, for her to jump into his arms instead of run away. But then... she ends up running away.

That night, Hakuoro is awakened by a sound. He thinks he hears Tousukuru's voice outside, and wonders what is going on as it is around midnight. He sneaks over to look out the window, but sees no one there. He looks in the main room, but she isn't there, only Eruruu and Aruruu are there sleeping. He wonders where she could've gone at such an hour but then goes back to sleep.

~~~~~

[At the house]

Tousukuru and Eruruu are working at making medicines. When Eruruu sees Hakuoro enter she greets him, and then Tousukuru slaps Eruruu's hand and tells her to pay attention. Hakuoro is surprised to see this part of Tousukuru. She tells Hakuoro not to intrude, and he apologizes. She then continues teaching Eruruu on how to prepare the medicine. Eruruu thinks she'll never be as good as her grandmother, but is told she will be with practice, and that she was once like that as well.

[Visit field]

The fields are now starting to get some growth. Teoro says that they've been working on watering, and then notices a look on Hakuoro's face and asks what is wrong. Hakuoro feels like someone is watching him. He says nothing and Teoro goes back to work, and then Hakuoro sees Aruruu slip out and look at him. As soon as he says her name, she runs off.

Later that day it is time for the workers to take a break. Eruruu is surprised to see
that there are actually some Mororo plants growing, and Teoro asks if she really believed that they couldn't do it, and she gets a little embarrassed. Sopoku says that it is largely thanks to Hakuoro, but he claims that it wasn't him, but the work of everyone.

Later, Hakuoro returns back to the village, but is then summoned by Teoro that tells him to come with him. He takes Hakuoro back to the fields, and the fense has been knocked down and part of the field destroyed, many of the Mororo taken from the ground. Teoro curses, wondering who could do such a thing. Hakuoro notices a tooth mark on a plant, and then Eruruu points to where some monkey-type creatures called Kimamau are on the other side of the field. They run off and Sopoku says they are fast and therefore hard to capture, but that they normally don't come here. Eruruu gets upset and Sopoku comforts her, telling her they can't give up.

Teoro swears that he is going to go chase the Kimamau away. Hakuoro says that unless they are defeated, they will just come back and do it again. That night the village meets to come up with a plan to take care of the Kimamau. The decide to split into two groups and drive the Kimamau into a trap to defeat them.

[Battle 1 - Defeat the Kimamau]

Hakuoro and Teoro fight the Kimamau. In the middle of the battle, Eruruu shows up, saying she can help with healing. After the Kimamau are defeated, she apologizes for intruding, and Hakuoro forgives her, patting her on the head, which makes her blush. Teoro says they need to return to the village.

With the Kimamau threat gone, the Mororo fields florish. Eruruu and Aruruu say that they are going to go work on burning Mororo plants as a means to preserve them. While leaving, Aruruu stops and stares at Hakuoro, he asks how she is and she smiles at him before leaving.

[Visit outside]

Hakuoro steps outside and hears a man's voice. A young man with a nasty grin addresses him as "Hey you (temee - rude form of the word) with the weird face." Hakuoro says he shouldn't have to respond because he isn't "you" and tells the man he should introduce himself. Very boastfully he says that he should not have to introduce himself, but does so anyway, saying his name is Nuwangi, and that he is the nephew of the emperor of the region. He tells Hakuoro to show his respect and bow. Just then Eruruu runs up to Hakuoro. Seeing Nuwangi she greets him but then turns her head, and Hakuoro wonders how they know each other.

Eruruu asks how long Nuwangi has been there, and he says for a little while, that he has come to see her. She asks if he has a new Uoputaru (a large lizard that is ridden like a horse) and he says yes, he goes on to brag about it but then it ends up biting him.

Eruruu then introduces Hakuoro to Nuwangi. He asks if he is living there. He says he is probably a fugitive and should be driven out, and Eruruu says Hakuoro is no such person, because he lives with them she knows him to be a good person. Nuwangi's face goes pale at hearing that he lives with Eruruu. He gets really mad and asks how a man like that can be Eruruu's man. She gets flustered and explains that it isn't like that, and asks Nuwangi not to act so childish, which makes him balk. He asks just what kind of man Hakuoro is, and she says he was a patient.

Nuwangi says that he has come there for Eruruu, that she is his woman. She asks why he is saying something so weird and he says it isn't a joke, she should go with him and leave her miserable life there. She just shakes her head sadly. He gets mad, asking if she really doesn't want to go live the life of luxery. He says she must be lying and grabs her arm, and says that with him she'll be happy. He tells him to let her go, and then Hakuoro steps in, saying that can't he understand that she doesn't like him and to let her hand go. He asks just what kind of a guy is he to tell him that, and Hakuoro says that she is the daughter of his benefactor and like family, and that is relation enough. Nuwangi, angered, tells Hakuoro that to oppose him is to oppose the Imperial Throne. Nuwangi tries to punch Hakuoro across the face, but after impact falls over, clutching his hand, saying that Hakuoro's face is as hard as stone. Nuwangi says that he will kill Hakuoro. Eruruu laughs over Nuwangi's hurt hand. Nuwangi says he will show no forgiveness and will meet Hakuoro again.

Nuwangi jumps onto his Uoputaru to leave, but it doesn't move and continues to
chew the grass. He starts beating on it telling it to run, and it bucks him off and
then takes off. Getting up from the trampled ground Nuwangi cries after it to
wait and takes off after it.

After he is gone Eruruu stands silent for a moment. She then says that back in olden times, when he was a child, he wasn't like that. She then leaves.

[Back at the house]

Hakuoro hears a commotion in the house. He sees Aruruu and asks her what is going on, and then Eruruu shows up and grabs Aruruu. She says Aruruu has been hurt and Aruruu says she is fine. Eruruu says it isn't fine and smears medicine on the hurt hand. Aruruu manages to get away before she finishes, and Hakuoro asks what happened. Eruruu says that Aruruu got into a beehive because she loves honey and has been stung. She says that since it hurts when she puts on the ointment Aruruu keeps running away.

Hakuoro goes outside to look for Aruruu. He finds her with the beehive and asks how she got it. She says that she knocked it down, and Hakuoro is shocked that she actually spoke to him. He tells her that she really needs to get the ointment on the stings, and then expects her to run away again. She dips her finger into the honey and holds it out to him. He tries the honey and says that it is delicious. She smiles, and he sits with her, eating the honey from the hive with her.

Eruruu then spots them, and stops, shocked, asking when Aruruu became friendly with Hakuoro. Aruruu says just a little while ago, and Eruruu smiles, saying she is glad. She whispers thank you to Hakuoro, whispering to him that Eruruu is very shy and thanks him for getting through her shyness.

~~~~~

[Visit outside]

Hakuoro steps outside and hears Nuwangi and Eruruu's voices. He hears her say "Let go" and Nuwangi tells her that when the district fuedal lord is gone, he will eventually climb to become Emperor, and then Eruruu will be Empress. He says all her luxeries will be given to her in such a life, and asks her again to come with him. He asks why she is acting like this and if she really wants a future of living a miserable life in the mud out in the country. She says he's hurting her, and then Hakuoro steps forward and tells him to let her go.

Nuwangi gets angry at Hakuoro for interfering. He says that he will kill Hakuoro, and Eruruu tells him to stop, that Hakuoro is just getting over from being in the sickbed, and that Nuwangi's arm is probably still healing from last time. He denies this and tries to prove it, but his arm is still bending strangely, and Eruruu laughs.

Then they hear a voice and Tousukuru steps out. She says she hasn't seen Nuwangi in a long time. She says he has certainly grown, and asks if he's recovered from his bad bed-wetting, and he goes pale. She goes on to talk about how he was a sickly baby and she took care of him, changing his diapers and singing him songs. He gets embarrassed and says he has to leave, but as he does so says that Eruruu is his girl and he'd better not make a pass at her. After he is gone, Tousukuru says that since Eruruu and Nuwangi grew up like brother and sister, it must be strange to see how much he has changed.

[Back at the house]

Hakuoro sees Aruruu and asks how she is. She mutters but he can't hear here, so he asks her to repeat herself. She says "Otousan" and it takes him a minute before he realizes that she is calling him "father". He says that it is okay that she calls him that. She jumps into his arms and starts rubbing her face against his chest.

Eruruu walks in and wonders what is going on. When she hears Aruruu calling Hakuoro "father" she laughs and then tells Aruruu not to annoy Hakuoro. Eruruu tries to remove her sister, but Aruruu clings to Hakuoro with her hands and feet and refuses to let go. Hakuoro says it is okay for now, and he pets Aruruu's head. Eruruu, seeming a little jealous at how close they suddenly are, leaves.

~~~~~

That night, Hakuoro wakes up, thinking he heard Tousukuru's voice. He looks around but she is gone again. He then hears Eruruu crying, because she doesn't know where her grandmother is at such an hour. She said she woke up to a sound and only saw her grandmother leaving with the black shapes of some people. He tells her not to worry and that he is sure that Tousukuru is fine and she should go back to sleep. She says that something must be going on though, for her to leave silently like that. He says that he understands and will go after her and make sure she is alright, so that Eruruu shouldn't cry.

Hakuoro heads out down the road into the country, hoping to catch up, when he hears an arrow. He asks who is there, and then feels a blade pressed against his neck and a man's voice tell him not to move even a little or he'll separate his head from his neck. He tells him to answer a question, why he was following them. Hakuoro thinks to himself that this surely must be the person who took Tousukuru. When Hakuoro keeps silent he demands him to answer.

Hakuoro escapes his hold and tosses him toward a tree, but the man easily flips
in the air and comes down in an arc with his blade drawn. A glint of light reflects
from the blade as he lunges forward and Hakuoro barely evades, it had come near to slicing his hand off. He grabs the cowl around the man and rips it off, showing a young man with sharp eyes and a thin body beneath. He says that now that he has been seen, Hakuoro cannot be let go, and he should surrender or die, and the sound of another arrow being knocked is heard in the distance. Then a voice calls out for him to wait: It is Tousukuru.

She comes forward and asks what is this business of him saying he'll kill Hakuoro. The man starts stuttering and trying to explain, saying that he was just making threatening remarks and was never going to kill him. She presses him asking if that is true, and he affirms that it is and for her to please believe him, and bows down to her.

Hakuoro stands watching, confused. She tells him to pardon the threats, as nothing can be done about it now. She asks why he is there, and he explains that it was because she had disappeared and Eruruu was worried. Tousukuru explains that she left to go examine a patient, that a girl is sick and every few days she leaves to check on her. He then asks why she does it in the middle of the night, and she says it is convenient for them.

She asks if he wants to see and the man gets defensive, saying they can't trust someone like him, but she says he is like family, so the man says that he understands, as he has great respect for Tousukuru. She tells him that he isn't to let Eruruu know. She motions to the trees, and then the man calls "Dorii" and a girl with a bow comes out from the trees. The man looks at Hakuoro and then tells him his name, Oboro, and asks for Hakuoro to introduce himself. When Hakuoro says his name, Oboro asks if that is some sort of joke, but Tousukuru says that it is no joke, it is his name. She then says they really need to get going, and Oboro calls out to the trees again, this time "Guraa", and another girl with a bow steps out. She puts a blindfold around Hakuoro's eyes, explaining that where they are going must be kept secret.

When it is finally removed, he sees a girl laying in bed. Oboro asks if Yuzuha, the girl, had gotten up. She says that she did, that she was feeling pretty good today. He hands her a bell, saying he bought it for her in the capital. She sounds that is sounds beautiful, and says "Thank you brother", and Hakuoro realizes she is Oboro's younger sister. Yuzuha asks if Tousukuru is there and she says so, and Yuzuha says that she knows from the smell of her medical herbs. She then says that she smells soil, and asks if someone else is there, and Hakuoro notices how her eyes only stare blankly. Tousukuru says she is very perceptive. Hakuoro asks if they mean him, and then hearing his voice, the girl says she was right, and then tries to sit up. Oboro tells her to stay laying down so she doesn't bring her fever back up. She says yes and lays back down, and then apologizes to Hakuoro for her appearance, and asks that he call her Yuzuha. He says he is Hakuoro and a freeloader staying with Tousukuru and he's pleased to meet her.

Tousukuru places her hands on Yuzuha's chest and shuts her eyes, feeling her breathing. She asks if Yuzuha is hurting, and she says she is okay. Tousukuru says that's good, it seems her condition is stabilizing. She says she needs to see Oboro, and asks Hakuoro if he will keep Yuzuha company for a moment. Oboro doesn't like the idea and asks if it is some sort of joke, and she tells him it isn't, twisting his ear.

When Hakuoro is alone with Yuzuha, he feels nervous, not sure what to talk about with her. She asks him to tell her about himself. She asks if that's a troublesome topic, and he replies that he has no memories of his past. He explains how he was injured and woke in Tousukuru's care and can't remember anything before that. She apologizes, and he says there is nothing to apologize for. He then asks her how her condition is, and she says she's been ill for a very long time. He apologizes to her and she says there isn't any reason for it, then finds it amusing how similar they are, both apologizing over unnecessary things. He then starts talking with Yuzuha, about his life with Tousukuru and her two granddaughters, and she listens, smiling occassionally.

In a moment of silence, she asks if it wouldn't be rude if she asked a question.
She asks if she may touch his face, and he says it is okay. She sits up and he asks
if it is okay, and she says she is fine. The tip of her finger touches his face, and she draws back, puzzled, but the she reaches out to touch him again.

Oboro enters, and asks Yuzuha what she is doing, that she should be sleeping. She says she is fine, but he insists she lay back down, and tells her not to give her older brother more to worry about. He then gets mad at Hakuoro, asking him what he was doing, but then Tousukuru tells him that it's fine, that she only touched Hakuoro's face.

Tousukuru says that Yuzuha seems to be a bit more energetic, and says that it is time for them to go. She asks Hakuoro if he will visit again and says that she wants to give him a good luck charm. She takes a piece of his hair and wraps is awkwardly around his little finger. Though he doesn't understand, he does the same to Yuzuha, and she says it is her charm for them to meet again.

~~~~~

Tousukuru and Hakuoro then return back to the village, just before daybreak. Hakuoro thinks back to when Oboro showed them off, and how he told Hakuoro that he did not want him to return.

When they get back into the house, Eruruu has been waiting up, and demands to know where her grandma went such late at night. Tousukuru says that she is sorry and did not want Eruruu to worry, so she tried to leave quietly. She says she really was extremely worried, and wants to know where she went. She tells her that she had to go check on someone's condition, and night is the only convenient time for her to visit the patient. She asks if Eruruu understands, and she says so, but that Tousukuru has to promise not to worry her like that again, and she promises. Aruruu then wakes up and asks what is going on, and Tousukuru says it is nothing and that she should go back to sleep.

Eruruu tells Hakuoro that she is sorry, and he says it is okay, that he was glad to
help her. She asks if he would like some Karakara tea with her, that will relax
his throat. He agrees, and then thinks to himself about Yuzuha, who insists on calling him "Hakuoro-sama" and gave him the little charm to meet again one day. When Eruruu comes back with the tea, she notices the hair wrapped on his little finger. He says it's supposed to be a charm to meet someone again, and asks Eruruu if she knows anything about it. She asks if this person is a girl, that it is to connect two people, and then gets upset and says goodnight before pouring him the tea.

~~~~~

The next day, Teoro tells Hakuoro about how they are working on a waterway for
the village. Then Eruruu runs up to Hakuoro, out of breath. She says that it is
terrible, that there is a person and she wants him to come with her. He goes with
her, wondering what is going on.

Later that night Tousukuru says how they were escaping the war. Hakuoro says that there are at least 150 people that needed food and rest because they'd been weakened with extreme fatigue and starvation, and Tousukuru remarks that it was foolish to try to cross the mountains. Teoro says that if they make it there, they can't take in the refugees, because they do not have the food and shelter to support so many people, but Tousukuru says it isn't right not to help them.

Tousukuru asks what Hakuoro's opinion on the situation is. He says that he was helped by everyone here, and therefore he doesn't want to have to desert those people who are under the same circumstances. He says that if they were to help them, they'd of course have to expand the village and get more food, and it would be to help only until they could support themselves. Teoro says all of this would cost a lot of money, and Hakuoro says that they could earn money by selling metals from their village at the capital, and says he knows about making iron (though he is surprised at saying this, as he doesn't know how he knows this skill). Sopoku comes in and supports Hakuoro's decision. He's told that he will head this up, and everyone should get rested for the work the next day.

~~~~~

[Visit bedroom]

Eruruu and Aruruu go outside with Hakuoro, to go to the forest. He thinks how the people here go to the forest daily, the men for hunting and the women to gather Mororo and nuts. He likes making the trip out of the village down the slope into the soaring trees. Eruruu asks him to wait for her as she makes the prayer to Yaanaun-kami. She returns and then stops when she sees a flower. Hakuoro offers it to her and she takes it, and says it is a flower that the Yaanaun-kami likes. She tells him the name of the flower is "eruruu" and she was named after it.

She says that there is a story about two sisters who were very close to each other. During that time, a feudal lord went hunting in Muteikapa's part of the forest. Enraged, Muteikapa then started attacking the villages every night, set on getting revenge at the feudal lord. The younger of the two sisters became very ill, and a very expensive medicine was needed, but they were very poor and did not have the money for it. The older made a decision, and went to the feudal lord, saying she would stop Muteikapa's wrath, and then she leaves. The next day, the younger sister wakes up, and is over the terrible sickness. Excited, she calls to her elder sister, but she is not there. She searches, but can't find her. Her grandmother tells her that her sister had become one with the forest, and from that day forward they would devote themselves to Yaanuan-kami, the god of the forest, who would protect them. The sister's name was Eruruu, and since that flower had been her favorite, the people named it after her. Eruruu says that she likes the name of the flower, especially after hearing this story, though she didn't like her name that much in her childhood.

Aruruu then comes up and hands Eruruu something. It is another flower, and Eruruu says that she loves that flower too, of course. Hakuoro asks what it is, and she says that this flower is "aruruu", the name of the other sister, and is named as such because it blooms next to the eruruu flower, so that the two sisters may be together forever.

They then leave, Hakuoro thinking over the tale.

~~~~~

That night, Tousukuru awakened Hakuoro. He asks what is wrong, and she says he needs to get up and get ready to leave. He asks why, and she says because he promised to go see Yuzuha again, so he should hurry quickly and go with her. He looks down at his little finger, where the hair was still tied.

She tells Eruruu and Aruruu that he and Hakuoro will be leaving. She asks why they have to leave at such an hour, and Hakuoro comments on her angry face. She insists she isn't angry and tells Aruruu to come back to bed, and that she'll see them soon. Hakuoro wonders why she got so upset.

As he and Tousukuru head out of the village, Hakuoro tells her how Oboro told him that he did not want him to come back. She tells him that he is just very overprotective of his little sister. She says she wants Hakuoro to come because the girl needs a friend. She says that Yuzuha suffered a bad seizure as a child and survived it, but lost her vision from it, and she has been battling sickness her entire life.

Oboro shows up, apologizing for keeping her waiting. Then he sees Hakuoro there and wonders why he is with her again. Tousukuru says that he'd better not complain about it, and he regretfully says that he understands. He tells Hakuoro he'd better not do anything bad to Yuzuha.

The two archer girls, Dorii and Guraa, come forward and say they had better get going. He's blindfolded again and told to watch his step, and Oboro comments how more time would be saved if he'd fall to the bottom of a ravine. Guraa mutters "Wakasama" (young master) at Oboro's obnoxious remark.

There is the sound of a gate opening, and then when Hakuoro's blindfold is removed he is inside Yuzuha's room. Before anything is said, she says "Hakuoro-sama!" knowing that he is there. He notes that her complexion seems to be pretty good. She says that the charm worked, and showed him her little finger with the hair still around it. She takes his hand and smiles when she feels the hair still around his pinky.

Oboro takes his knife and comes forward, and Dorii asks what he is going to do.
He says he is going to remove the charm and release Yuzuha from this man. Guraa tells him it is no good and to stop, then there is a sound and he falls over. Tousukuru is there with a cloth over his mouth, saying she's put him to sleep and for Dorii and Guraa to carry him out of the room, and Tousukuru steps out to make tea, leaving Hakuoro and Yuzuha.

Hakuoro sits next to Yuzuha and asks what they should do today, what her favorite thing to do with a friend is. She asks what is a friend, and he's confused, saying a friend is a friend. He thinks back to how Tousukuru said that what she really needed was a friend, which is why she brought him. He explains that a friend is someone who plays with you, encourages you, is always close, and there in times of hardship. She asks if he means like her brother, and he says that the word friend is usually someone who is not a brother or a sister. Then she asks like Tousukuru, and he says that she is from a different standpoint than the kind of friend he is talking about. She then asks if Ninaa and Hokoro are friends. He asks who they are, and she says they are always at her side. He wonders if they are servants, or Yuzuha's attendants, but decides they are likely not "friends". He wonders if that may be the case with Dorii and Guraa to Oboro. He thinks it is sad that a child that has suffered sickness like this doesn't even know the word "friend." She then asks if he isn't a friend. He says that yes, they are friends, and
she says that she is glad.

Yuzuha asks if Hakuoro will talk about the other children. He asks who, and she says Eruruu and Aruruu. He agrees and starts talking about them, though he doesn't know why Yuzuha wants to hear about them. He thinks perhaps out of yearning, or envy, but she listens intently and seems glad. He talks about how they chase after each other, and she says that it sounds like fun. He says that it is, and he will introduce her to them sometime. She asks if he really will and if they will become her friends, and he says that they will. She smiles at him quietly.

~~~~~

[Visit the fields]

Eruruu visits Hakuoro at the fields and tells him he has mud on his face, and she takes out a handkerchief and wipes it off for him. She then tells him to take it, and he thanks her. He then thinks of when Tousukuru said that she and Nuwangi grew up like brother and sister and it must be painful to see how he's changed. She asks what is wrong and he says there is nothing.

Aruruu then shows up and tells Eruruu that their grandmother is calling for her. She goes to leave and he stops her as if to tell her something, but then just says that it's nothing. He wonders why he let himself waver like that, because she is just his benefactor, and he... who is he?

Aruruu then clings onto Hakuoro, and he asks if she wants to be pet. She nods and he pets her, and then he hears a voice call out. She jumps up, and Nuwangi walks up to them. Hakuoru asks if his arm is finally better. He says he doesn't want to deal with him today and asks where Eruruu is. Again he hears Tousukuru's word "brother and sister" in his mind, and then answers that he doesn't know where she is. He keeps pressing him, and then Aruruu says she's that way and points, though it isn't the direction that Eruruu went. Hakuoro tells him not to go, and Nuwangi tells him how dare he try to order him. Hakuoro says that it is dangerous, but he doesn't listen, and ends up walking into a pile of manure. Nuwangi can be heard cursing and says that he will remember this.

Aruruu then tells Hakuoro to continue with his petting. Then Eruruu runs over yelling her name, and she jumps up. Eruruu said she lied and their grandma had never called for her, and chases after her.

[Back at the house]

Tousukuru is teaching Aruruu how to weave. Hakuoro asks Aruruu what she is making, and she falls silent. Tousukuru says it is a secret. Hakuoro tells Aruruu that he looks forward to seeing it completed, and pats her head, and she smiles. He decides to leave so he won't be intruding, and she seems disappointed that he is leaving.

~~~~~

Nuwangi is out in the forest with three of the villagers. They ask what he wants to
see them about. He tells them to just keep quiet and follow his instructions. They ask if this is about expelling Hakuoro from the village because he doesn't like him, and tell Nuwangi that that's no good. He tells them to shut up and listen to him, because he'd been at the village for years, but they say that even so he is mistaken, that Hakuoro has been accepted as a man into the village, and he is a comrade, family, and they protect each other. They say he has no right to talk that way, and decide to leave. He tells them to wait, but they say he should go because he is on Yaanuan-kami's sacred ground. He tells them to stay and listen to him, but they leave him there anyway.

When they are gone, he comments about what kind of Forest God is this to have such a dirty place as sacred ground. He sees something and says, "This... this thing..." and then starts laughing, saying they'll get what they deserve for opposing him, a great man who will be on the imperial throne.

A loud roar is then heard in the distance.

~~~~~

That night, Hakuoro is still awake, going over the plans for the village, worrying
because it seems they will not be able to expand the field or get a waterway through the rock. Eruruu then comes in, asking if he's awake. He asks her why she is up, and she says she was just not able to fall asleep for some reason. She asks how the blueprints for the field expansion are going, and he says they think they won't be able to expand it even a little. She's quiet for a moment, then starts to ask him something, but when he asks her what it is, she blushes and says it is nothing and he should get back to sleep. He tells her he will after he does some more work on it. She says then she will go make him something warm, and he thinks about what a good girl she is, that she will become a good wife and mother in the future.

She brings him back some warm honey sake and he thanks her. He tries some and tells her it is delicious. She says she is glad and learned how to make it from Sopoku. He asks her to have another cup with him. She pauses and her face turns concerned, and he asks her what is wrong, and she says she thought she heard an urgent cry. He's confused because he hasn't heard anything. She says she has a bad feeling and looks around restlessly. He thinks that she must be sensing something from animal instinct. Her ears then bristle and she starts shaking, and he tries to comfort her. She beens crying and asks what has been done. A loud growl is then heard.

Hakuoro asks what it is, and then a crash is heard and screams from outside. He
tells Eruruu to wait there and he will go see what it is. She tells him not to go,
that it is no good and he'll be eaten. He is confused, and she says it is Muteikapa.
Another growl is heard, followed by more crashes and screams. He tells her it will
be fine and he has to go outside, and she pleads with him not to, saying he doesn't know what Muteikapa can do, and no one can do anything about it.

Suddenly it becomes quiet, and he says he will go outside and have a look. She again asks him not to, but he goes outside to see. He doesn't see anything, even though he was sure he heard a scream from that area. Then he smells something, and hears a crunching sound. It sounds like a person being eaten. Then he sees a huge white tiger staring at him. She lets out a loud roar and attacks him, injuring his leg. Then Eruruu is at his side, telling him to hang in there. He asks what she is doing there, and tells her run, that it is impossible for him to get away because of his hurt foot. She refuses, saying she'll stay with him.

Muteikapa stares at them, and Eruruu cries, clutching to Hakuoro. He tells her again to run away. Growling, Muteikapa comes towards them, and then it begins to rain. Suddenly, Muteikapa stops advancing. With a growl, she runs away. Hakuoro is confused, wondering why she suddenly left. Eruruu continues to cry, and he tells her it is okay, it is safe now, that she's left. She says that she was scared, and he says he is sorry for scaring her but he's okay and to not be scared anymore.

~~~~~

The next morning they are having a meeting. Teoro says that one of the village children was eaten. He is enraged for this to happen to a child who was still a baby. The three villagers enter and report that there was a lot of damage done to the village. Also, the alter had been broken on the sacred ground, and Hakuoro asks if they think that has any connection, and Tousukuru says it greatly does. She says it was placed there in worship to Yaanuan-kami to keep Muteikapa at peace. Hakuoro asks what can be done, and Tousukuru shakes her head, saying that once Muteikapa's rage is awakened, it's never been stopped, and until it stops they should keep well hidden at night. Teoro gets angry, saying that he can't just sit back and let innocent people be eaten. She says she doesn't wish so either, but that Muteikapa is strong, quick, smart, and can't be hurt by weapons. She says they should adjourn the meeting and make no sound at night and keep
hidden.

~~~~~

[Visit bedroom]

Teoro comes to visit Hakuoro. He says the whole village is spreading rumors about the attack from Muteikapa, and he's heard that another villager was attacked the other day. He asks Hakuoro if he can't think of anything that they can do. Hakuoro has what looks like a thread, and Teoro asks him what he is doing, he's trying to talk about serious matters. Hakuoro says that he can't cut it, and asks Teoro to try his axe. He finds this kind of funny, and strikes down on the thread. It won't break. He tries again with more force, and then again, and still it won't break. He asks Hakuoro what on earth it is, and he tells him it is a hair from Muteikapa's body that he had found on the ground.

Hakuoro says that even though it feels soft, nothing he's tried can break it, and
also trying to burn it was useless. Hakuoro tells him how that time, Muteikapa didn't attack him and Eruruu, and instead suddenly left, and maybe it was just capriciousness or he was already full, but he thinks it must be something more.

Aruruu calls out for Hakuoro, and Eruruu tells her not to go bother him, that he is
having an important meeting. She asks what Eruruu is doing and she says she is
just bringing them some tea. Aruruu asks to take it. She grabs it and brings it to
Hakuoro, but drops it, soaking Hakuoro. He thinks of how he is dripping wet, and
suddenly the thought clicks in his head: it had started raining, and that is when
Muteikapa had left. He says that he thinks Muteikapa hates being wet, and the strand of her fur goes limp when he puts it in the tea. Excited, he tells Aruruu that she's wonderful and gives her a big hug, patting her head.

Teoro says then that they must kill Muteikapa immediately, and leaves. Hakuoro tells him to wait, but he's already left, and he thinks to himself that he doesn't think Teoro knows what he is doing, that even if they know Muteikapa's weakness, killing him is another matter.

~~~~~

Hakuoro and Teoro are out in the woods, going over the plan they have set up again; they have laid a trap in the forest in the area where Muteikapa has been spotted, and plan to lure her into the trap, the pithole filled with water than has been covered over with thick earth, and only Muteikapa's weight would capsize it, getting the tiger drenched. If they try to attack before it gets soaked, they know that it will be ineffective, but after his fur is wet, then their weapons should work.

They sound the bell to put the plan into action, the noise alerting Muteikapa, who
comes into the area. They start to run down to the area with the trap, but get tangled in vines and unable to move. They know Muteikapa will be there any minute, and as Teoro finally hacks through the vines with his axe, the tiger is there. They split up to try to get him off their tails, rejoining when they reach the area where the trap is laid.

When they arrive there, exhausted, Hakuoro hears Eruruu call out his name, standing down next to the trap. She screams "Behind you!" and they turn around to see Muteikapa there, staring at them. Teoro curses that she caught up with them already. Then from out of the trees, a group of Kimamau appear, ready to attack, making things much worse: now they must lure the tiger to the trap while withstanding the attacks of the Kimamau.

[Battle 2 - Lure Muteikapa into the trap]

The bait Muteikapa down to the trap. After Muteikapa steps on the trap, the waiting villagers pull the triggers to capsize it, sending her into the hole of water. She jumps out, shaking water from her fur, growling in rage. She's been thoroughly soaked, and now they have a chance of attacking her.

[Battle 2 - Defeat Muteikapa]

After the fight is over, Eruruu asks if everyone is alright. Hakuoro says they survived thanks to her showing up and helping them. Then Sopoku shows up and says seeing Teoro like that reminds her of the old times when he'd come back from hunting, and he remarks about how beautiful she was then, which earns him a jab from her. Eruruu laughs.

Hakuoro thanks Eruruu again, and she says it is nothing. They hear something, and it's Aruruu, who walks up to them. Eruruu asks what she is doing there. She says she told Aruruu that it was dangerous and not to come. Then she notices a bulge on Aruruu's stomach, and asks what it is. She says it's a baby, her baby. She rubs at her stomach, and there is a wriggling. She says it is her and Hakuoro's baby. He is confused and everyone stares at him. He says that's not it.

A strange cry is heard, and Hakuoro asks her what she is hiding under her clothes. They pull it out, and it is a white tiger cub, and Teoro remarks that it must be Muteikapa's baby. Teoro thinks they should kill the cub because if it grows up, it could come attack the village. Aruruu gets upset and runs away with the cub, and they follow her. He tries to explain to her that if the tiger grows up, it can come hurt the village and kill more children like Muteikapa did. She starts crying and refuses to let it go, saying it was a mother's promise. Eruruu asks why they can't raise her. Teoro asks Hakuoro his opinion, and everyone stares at him, waiting for an answer. He knows that what Teoro says is true, but also can't resist the look in the sisters' eyes.

Then Tousukuru shows up. She asks Aruruu if she had been "called," and then says that if the cub is nurtured and raised by good people, it won't necessarily grow up to be dangerous, but can be tamed. Teoro starts to protest, but gives in, since Tousukuru is the village leader. Aruruu, happy, runs off clutching the cub. Eruruu asks her grandmother what she meant by "called", but she doesn't explain.

~~~~~

Utawareru Mono Summary

By Mastress Alita


~~~~~

Note: My knowledge of Japanese is very limited and this summary was made heavily from information gathered from using Anime Game Text Hooker + Atlas Japanese Translation Software for translation. Therefore, there are likely going to be errors. If you find incorrect information, please let me know so I can fix it.

~~~~~

Part 3


[Visit house]

Aruruu is playing with Muteikapa's cub in the main room. Hakuoro remarks that they are very attached, and asks if the cub has been named yet. Aruruu says "Mukkuru!" Eruruu thinks it is a bit unoriginal and wonders why a cuter name weren't chosen. She says she feels a bit uneasy because she is scared she may grow up to become like Muteikapa as many of the villagers fear. Eruruu then picks her up and she licks her face. She laughs, saying it tickles. She then climbs down inside her shirt, and she starts laughing from it tickling her. She climbs out, whining, and Eruruu is a little disappointed. Aruruu says she is pathetic and then puts her down in her shirt. She continues to whine a little but then calms down. Hakuoro looks at Eruruu's face, and decides that the look isn't disappointment, but pity.

Hakuoro then notices a large crowd gathering outside, so he goes outside to see
what is going on. A soldier calls out, saying to not obstruct the street. Teoro asks him what he wants, and he tells him to stand back, that he wants to see the village leader. Tousukuru steps forward and asks what it is, and the soldier asks if she's the leader of the village. She says that she is and asks what it is he wants. The soldier tells them that the great feudal lord Sasante is here, and to bow. Tousukuru does not bow, and they again demand it, asking if she can't hear them. Then Sasante steps forward.

He looks at Tousukuru and says it looks like she's somehow escaped death to still be alive, and she says it is unfortunately so. She asks what his business is there, and he tells her that they've been cheating out of paying tax money, and he will not allow it. Tousukuru says this must be a joke, that he has plenty of money and they have little in savings. The soldier tells her she is isolent and who is she to speak that way, and Sasante says that for a person who has escaped death she is full of nonsense. He says that for deceiving them of the tax money, he's requiring ten years worth of payment. Teoro gets angry, and Tousukuru has to silence him. Sasante then says he's heard rumor that they are making iron there to be sold in the capital, and to do so without permission is punishable by beheading. He says that he will take their iron as tax payment, and leaves.

After they are gone, the villagers hold a meeting. Teoro asks what they can do, and Tousukuru says that in such a situation, she doesn't see how it's possible to refuse. Hakuoro says he is sorry, and she asks why. He says that he did not know they had to have permission to manufacturer the iron. Tousukuru says that isn't really the case, they are just being exploited, that Sasante is the kind of person that loves finding faults and pulling strings to make people do as he says.

Nuwangi then enters and says, "Is that so?" Teoro gets angry and says this is surely Nuwangi's doing. Nuwangi says that he should shut his mouth, because he will be the one to govern, and others will have to be silent and work for him under his power. He then turns to Eruruu and tells her to look at the kind of strength and authority he has. She says it is terrible, that everyone has worked so hard, and that he's a jerk. He looks shocked, saying he did it for her sake. Sopoku comes forward and says he's the same idiot, and why would anyone be glad over such a thing. He curses and leaves. Sopoku then says that there is another idiot there, and looks at Hakuoro. She asks why he is just standing there, that at a time like this he should go kindly hug Eruruu, and then asks herself why guys here are so dumb.

~~~~~

That night, Hakuoro is up, worrying about the village food supply. Teoro's voice is then heard from outside the room, asking if Hakuoro is still awake. He enters and apologizes for coming at such an inconvient time. Hakuoro asks what is wrong for him to come so late. Teoro says he has something to show Hakuoro, and asks if he'll go with him for a moment. Hakuoro says he doesn't mind.

Eruruu then steps in and asks what is going on, that it's the middle of the night. Aruruu stands behind her, yawning. Teoro tells the girls that he has something to do with Hakuoro for a moment. Aruruu asks where they are going. Teoro says they'll be back before long, and Hakuoro tells the girls that they should go back to bed, that tomorrow is going to be a hard day and will be worse if they don't get some sleep. Eruruu tells Aruruu to go back to bed. She yawns, ignoring her words, and then proclaims that if Hakuoro is going, she is going too, and then she grips onto his clothes tightly.

They all head outside. Teoro points and tells them to look. There is food laying outside, and he says it just showed up recently. Hakuoro wonders to himself why it suddenly showed up. Eruruu says perhaps it was Nuwangi, and Teoro says this can't be so, that he has changed from the person they knew from olden times now that he has been spoiled by living in the lap of luxery. Tousukuru then steps into view. ERuruu asks why she is up, and she says that when you get old you don't sleep well. Teoro asks her to tell the real reason. She says she heard them talking. She says someone must have taken pity on them, and though they don't know who it is, she is grateful. Teoro tells them to help carry it to storage.

Hakuoro thinks to himself how that takes one of their urgent worries away. Then he turns and sees a person's shadow. Eruruu asks him what it is, and he says it is nothing. Aruruu yawns, and Hakuoro says she's stayed up enough for being so tired, and that children should be in bed. He then tells Eruruu to also return. At first she says yes, but then stops and asks if he is implying that he thinks she is a child. He says that isn't what he meant, and she asks just what he did mean then. He said he didn't mean anything significant by it, and then says that he'll get some sleep too. She leaves, looking a bit annoyed, and he thinks to himself about how she is at a delicate age. Then then thinks about how he certainly saw a shadow.

He slips out of town, looking down the road, thinking that he was sure he saw someone but must have lost sight of them. Then Hakuoro sees Oboro, dressed in his cowl. He calls "You!?" surprisedly, but he slips away silently. Hakuoro wonders why he was there, and wonders if he is really the one helped them.

~~~~~

[Visit outside]

Hakuoro steps outside, noting the nice weather. He hears singing, and walks toward the sound. He sees Eruruu happily hanging up laundry to dry while humming a song, and thinks how she is in a good mood. He says it must be a pain doing laundry and she says she likes hanging it out on such a nice day. She says now that when she is done with the laundry and changing the hay in the beds that she'll be finished. She smiles and he thinks how he likes her smile, that seeing it makes him feel like he can't be sad. He tells her that he'd like to help. She says he doesn't have to do that. He tells her that it is funner with two people.

She finally gives in and lets Hakuoro help her with the laundry. She giggles and he asks her what is funny. She apologizes and says it is nothing, blushing. As he goes through the laundry, he picks up a cloth that he doesn't know what it is, and asks her. She goes red and in an instant grabs it from him, hiding it behind her back. She says that it is nothing, and he presses her. She insists that it is really nothing, and laughs, embarrased.

[Visit bedroom]

Eruruu asks Hakuoro if she can see him for a minute. He says he doesn't mind, then asks what is behind her back. Aruruu steps out. Eruruu tells her it is fine encouragingly, and then pushes Aruruu forward. He wonders what they are up to, then asks Aruruu what she wants. She fidgets nervously, and Eruruu tells her to do her best.

Aruruu presses something into Hakuoro's hands and then runs out of the room. Eruruu laughs, commenting about how she is such a shy child. Hakuoro expands the item in his hand: it is a patterned obi, and he recalls seeing the pattern before, and then remembers that it was what Aruruu was weaving the other day. Eruruu tells him that Aruruu wove it for him. He feels really happy inside, his chest tightening. He tells her to please tell Aruruu thank you, and that he'll use it right away. Eruruu laughs and yells out to Aruruu that he says thank you, and then she slinks back into the room. He asks her if she was peeping from outside, and Eruruu giggles.

~~~~~

Hakuoro is visiting Yuzuha, and he wonders to himself how many times he has commuted there, that he has been coming to visit her frequently lately. He thinks how when he first saw her smile it was weak, but now her smile seems so much more alive. Tousukuru comes in and says they need to be going. Yuzuha asks if they have to leave already, and Hakuoro says that he'll return, and he looks forward to it. She gets up and says she will see them off, and then Oboro asks what she is talking about and tells her she needs to get back to bed. She starts to protest but he asks her if she wants to trouble her brother, and she agrees and goes back to bed.

Oboro (in his cowl), Hakuoro, and Tousukuru head out. Oboro thanks Tousukuru, and then Hakuoro asks her to go on ahead, that he needs to speak with Oboro. She says she will, but that he'd better be back before daybreak.

Oboro removes his cowl and asks Hakuoro what he wants to talk to him about. Hakuoro asks why he keeps Yuzuha bound. Oboro asks what he means and Hakuoro says he should let her do more. Oboro gets angry and says that he does it for Yuzuha's sake, and he won't let a stranger come in and intervene. Hakuoro says that he confines her to a cage, and that it is a pity to her cause she is kept stuck in that room everyday, and didn't even know the word "friend" because she doesn't know the world outside. Then he says angrily that that is the truth of "for Yuzuha's sake."

Oboro gets angry and tells him to shut up, and that he doesn't know anything. He says that Yuzuha can't be under strong sunlight, and it's the best for Yuzuha. Hakuoro asks if she wishes it, and then says that even if you have a short life, you should be able to live it freely with all your might, and asks Oboro if he has ever thought of this. Oboro says that isn't the case, he knows Yuzuha best. Hakuoro says that Oboro may have eyes, but they are nothing more than knotholes (he doesn't see what is going on). He then asks if he notices
Yuzuha at all, and if he is that scared to let Yuzuha free. Oboro is silent for a moment and Hakuoro says he hit the bull's eye. Hakuoro says that Oboro is deceiving himself, deceiving Yuzuha, and how many others will be deceived by the end? Oboro tells him to shut up, and to not make that mistake again. He then says that he will say it again, that Oboro is deceiving her for "her sake" so that he will be satisfied.

Oboro draws his blade and says "Die." In the next instant he has disappeared, and Hakuoro feels a chill run up his spine. He senses something behind himself and dodges the swift movement of a blade aimed at his neck, and he realizes that his neck would have been severed if he had acted even a fraction later just then. He thinks of how Oboro is showing no hesitation and wonders if he is really serious.

Oboro lets out a battle cry and attacks again, and Hakuoro blocks, noting to himself how fast Oboro is. Oboro screams out "Die!" and brings out a second knife, using a two-blades method of attack. There is a splash of blood; Hakuoro has been cut across the arm. The bleeding is intense, and he starts to lose feeling in his fingertips. Oboro says he won't be able to move well with that wound. Hakuoro says that it's just a scratch and he will lick his wounds and it will heal. Oboro asks if that is so, amused. Then something comes to Hakuoro as he thinks of that saying "to lick ones wounds." Oboro says for Tousukuru-sama, he'll give Hakuoro this one chance to take back what he said earlier and grovel on the ground. Hakuoro says "Take back what I said?" and then says that Oboro
keeping a pet with the name "Yuzuha" has effected his nature. This infuriates Oboro, and he lunges forward, screaming for him to die.

Hakuoro waits for the moment when Oboro gets close, and then in that instant, sucks up blood from his wound and spits it into Oboro's eyes. He screams, and Hakuoro says it is useless, that blood has unexpected adhesive power and won't come out so easily by rubbing his eyes. With the lack of vision, Oboro still brandishes his blade. Hakuoro says that they should end this, and then attacks Oboro while his vision is still affected, knocking Oboro to the ground with the blow.

Hakuoro then hisses from the pain in his arm, and wonders if there is something he can do about it. Oboro then pulls himself up, covered in blood, and asks Hakuoro if he thought he'd really give up over something like that. Hakuoro says that he's straining his body to stand from willpower but it won't last. Oboro asks him what, and Hakuoro says that shaking up a person even a little can turn into their downfall. He says even if he struggles, he won't be able to stand for a while, and he remembers fighting this sort of person. Oboro lets out a wail in pain and falls. Then Hakuoro's vision starts to go blurry, and he thinks about how absurd this is as he blacks out.

When he wakes, he sees Tousukuru. She says they are both fools and hopes they are satisfied. Hakuoro says that she had already left. He said he suspected something like this would happen, and asks if he is just going to sit there.

A little later, Hakuoro is heard screaming, and Tousukuru says not to shift while she is stitching the wound. Oboro smugly remarks about screaming to such an extent. Tousukuru then turns to him and says his wound needs disinfected. Oboro's face goes pale and he asks if she seriously is going to put that on. She says if he's a man to stop whining. She puts the disinfectant on them, and both scream in unison.

Later, Hakuoro tells Oboro that it was cruel what he did to his eyes. Oboro says he doesn't understand why Hakuoro would say that, and that doing that was the only thing possible. Hakuoro is silent for a moment, then Dorii and Guraa rush up. Dorii asks what the young master (Oboro) is doing there, and Oboro asks what is the trouble. Guraa says it is Yuzuha. Oboro asks what about Yuzuha, getting panicked. Tousukuru murmers, "It can't be..."

The rush back to the house to find Yuzuha in a terrible fever, panting. Oboro rushes to her, asking her what is wrong, and she continues to pant. Hakuoro asks what happened, and Dorii says that after the young master left, she suddenly went into a bad fever. Guraa adds that it rapidly got worse. Oboro asks why he was not informed sooner. Dorii apologizes and said they hurried to make the report, but couldn't find him.

Hakuoro turns to Tousukuru and asks what it is, and she remains silent, somewhat as if in a daze, and then says "Sister..." He asks her what is wrong, and she falls silent again. Oboro gets on his knees and begs for Tousukuru to help Yuzuha. Seeming to come back out of her thoughts, she tells him to raise his head as there is no need for bowing, and it was inexcusable for her behavior to abandon this child's life.

She takes out her mortar and pestle and starts grinding items, and Hakuoro thinks to himself how even though he has seen Eruruu do the same several times, it is nothing compared to the skill with the hands that Tousukuru has. She then takes a ball from her necklace and breaks it open, and a purple powder comes out from the inside. She says that it is the powder of rare purple amber, called "Mui Kouuha." Oboro says that can't be, and Hakuoro asks what the stir is about. Guraa says that she doesn't understand about the substance well herself, and Dorii says that some people will dedicate their entire lives to finding even one fragment of the Mui Kouuha. Tousukuru mixes the powder in with the medicine, and tells Oboro to get Yuzuha to drink it. He works at getting it down her as she pants from the fever.

A little later, after receiving the medicine, Yuzuha lays in a calm sleep, her breathing normal again. Tousukuru says she's past through the most difficult part, and Oboro says really and thanks Tousukuru over and over, and that he is so relieved. She then says that this will not be the end of Yuzuha's seizures. Oboro says that even if she has another seizure, as long as this medicine exists, then she should be okay. Tousukuru then says that the powder of the Mui Kouuha can only be used one time, and she possesses only a few remaining pieces of it. She says that when it has been all used up, then when a following seizure happens, to be prepared for the worst. Oboro gets upset, and asks if there isn't any other method that can be used to save Yuzuha, and Tousukuru doesn't respond. He asks why, why it has to be Yuzuha, who is so obediant, gentle, and has never killed. Hakuoro says "Oboro..." gently.

Then they hear a small sound from the bed and Yuzuha opens her eyes, saying,
"Onii-sama?" Oboro instantly asks if she is alright or if she is still feeling bad. She's confused, and Hakuoro wonders if she can't remember even having the seizure. Yuzuha says that Oboro's voice is trembling and asks him what is wrong, and he very forcefully gets out "Nothing." Hakuoro then asks if they were too noisy since she woke up. She is surprised that Hakuoro is still there because he had already left. He says that he forgot something but then got caught up in conversation, and they must've talked too loudly and woke her, and that's he's sorry.

Tousukuru asks Yuzuha if she is feeling worse after getting up so suddenly. She says that she feels very well, after such a long time. Tousukuru says that is good, and in that case, she should be healing soon. Yuzuha asks her really, and she says of course. Yuzuha says in that case, she wants to try running around in the nice smelling flower field, that that is her wish. Tousukuru says she'll have to hold out for a little while to recover.

Hakuoro sees the solemn look on Oboro's face, and laughs gently, and then bumps Oboro on the elbow to try to signal to him to laugh too, knowing that it would reassure Yuzuha. Oboro tries to force out a laugh, and then finally smiles, but it is distorted by tears in his eyes. Oboro laughs and tells Yuzuha that she'd better not fall down if she starts running around suddenly, and she smiles up at him. Seeing it, Hakuoro can feels his chest constrict.

Hakuoro says that he has to go, and that Yuzuha should get some more sleep. She asks if he'll come again, and he says he surely will, but she'll have to eat well and take her medicine everyday so that she can build up her energy, and then pats her on the head. She says she will wait, and he thinks to himself why this has to happen to such a pure child.

~~~~~

It is night, and Oboro, is face cloaked, is running. He curses and says he's made a
mistake. A voice calls out into the night, "Where did he go?" He continues running but is then stopped short by a man in armor standing in his way, who says that it is his bad luck, but he's reached a dead end. He then says that it is very bold of a thief to break into the warehouse of the imperial castle, and he doesn't want to get violent, so he should just surrender quietly. Oboro tells him not to take this so lightly and if he thinks he can stop him by himself. The knight says that he is sufficient to handle someone who is alone. He then tells Oboro that resisting is futile, and he cannot defeat him, but if Oboro tries to run, he may be able to outdistance him. Therefore, if he doesn't want to be caught, he should run away like an animal with it's tail between it's legs, with everything he's got, screaming helplessly.

Oboro says that's what he says, and asks if he is just trying him. The knight is silent, then says that Oboro's slim body has good balance and if he takes pride in putting emphasis on his speed in his tactics. Oboro asks him "What?" and the knight goes on, saying that he has acute senses and is not bad at having a soldier's nature. Then he says that perhaps he has no experience with being almost defeated, and thefore is self-conceited, arrogant, and prideful, and that arrogance dulls the ability to make cool judgements and hinder the ability to measure the ability of the other person.

Oboro replies that it is said that the weak beast often barks (all bark but no bite),
and that the knight is similar. The knight chuckles and then says that if the beast
(himself) is only barking, then why is Oboro hesistating, and then says that surely he can't be scared. Oboro comes forward, saying that's what he says, and the knight stays silent, standing there. Oboro notes how he is standing so simply and there is no opening, and if he just jumped in unskillfully he'd be skewered on his spear. He then notices a slight opening at his chest, and with a battle cry, lunges forward in attack. He is blocked, and thinks how his halberd was there as if having already read his move.

The knight then swings at Oboro, catching the tip of his spear on Oboro's cowl. With a twist of his spear it is torn off. Then there is a loud boom and the earth shakes, and Oboro hits the ground, groaning. The ground sinks beneath him from the impact of the earth tremor, and then the knight attacks at Oboro. Oboro meets the attack and they fight, and the knight says that he has good swordsmanship and can read ahead unaffected. He then gets an attack through and Oboro hisses, falling from the serious wound inflicted, and the knight asks if he is still conscious after such a blow. Oboro gives a little groan and the knights asks if he may have his name. He says that if you ask someone's name, then you should introduce yourself first. The knight says very well, and tells Oboro that his name is Benaui. Then he asks if Oboro will now give him his name, and after a moment, Oboro finally says he is Oboro.

Oboro then tells the knight to just kill him. He says there is no pleasure in killing an exposed person. Oboro asks him what's wrong, and again to kill him. Then Benaui turns to leave, and Oboro asks him to wait, and where does he think he is going. Benaui says that the wound is not fatal, and that if Oboro is lucky, he may be able to get away. Oboro angrily asks what his intention is, and why is he showing mercy. Benaui remains silent, and he shouts at him to say something. Benaui then says that it seems he is just a weak animal barking, as Oboro had said. He says that it is not worth it and if Oboro wants to die so bad, to do it himself.

He then starts to leave and Oboro calls for him to wait. Oboro says that if he's
finished, he'll be going. Oboro asks him to wait again. Benaui says then another time. Oboro yells again loudly for him to wait, but he is gone. Then with a scream of pain from Oboro, the scene goes black.

~~~~~

Aruruu and Hakuoro are out in the forest. Aruruu comes up to Hakuoro and hands him a huge bag of thick canvas, so large it could hold a person. She calls out, "Honey, honey, we're coming!" and Hakuoro thinks that it should be suitable for the beehives, and can probably hold several. She tells him that they should be off, and then there is a sound behind them.

Oboro walks into view, covered in blood. Hakuoro notices him and rushes to him, saying he's been injured, and Oboro falls over. He asks what happened and to hang on. Then a shouting is heard, saying "Search, he must be hiding around here somewhere!" Realizing that Oboro is being chased, Hakuoro tells him to get inside the sack.

The soldiers come up to Hakuoro and ask if he saw a suspicious man. He says he has seen no one, and the soldier asks him if that is true, and it would be very bad if he were hiding something. Aruruu then says "Otousan, over there" and points. The soldiers ask if she saw something, and she says she did. Screams can then be heard as a soldier shouts out, "Commanding officer, there are bees!" The officer shouts back to keep advancing and the soldier says it is impossible. Aruruu once again says "Honey, honey~" in a sing-song
tone.

After the area is clear, Oboro comes out of hiding and says that he was concerned for him, and Hakuoro says he doesn't want to have further troubles with him. Hakuoro says for him to hang on, and Oboro says "But..." Hakuoro says the way things are going he'll surely be caught by those soldiers. He says that if Oboro is gone, what would be become of Yuzuha, and that he cannot die yet. Oboro says that Hakuoro cannot be caught with him, and therefore he can't involve him any further. Hakuoro tells him not to be stubborn. Hakuoro says he understands, but Oboro has to accept treatment for the wound, that he would never be able to get away as he is.

Aruruu treats Oboro's wound. He thanks her, and she says she isn't as good as her older sister. Oboro tells her that she did fine and he is grateful. Hakuoro then says that he was trying to sneak into the imperial castle's warehouse, and where his colleagues were. Oboro says that he went alone, because it was a personal matter. Hakuoro questions how it was personal, and Oboro says that he just had to get a large sum by any means. Hakuoro then says the Mui Kouuha, and Oboro is silent. Oboro then says he is in their debt, and it is necessary to return an expression of gratitude. Hakuoro asks if he really must go, and Oboro says he he'll be fine, and can't be caught so easily. He then says "To that man, I will return the debt" and leaves.

In the distance, the soldiers are still shouting, being told to scatter and form a circle around the perimeter. Aruruu is worried, but Hakuoro says that it'll be alright, that for a man like Oboro he will surely escape safely.

~~~~~

Nuwangi and some imperial soldiers are in the village hauling off their food and money. Hakuoro asks what they are doing, and Nuwangi says they are collecting their tax payment as per their decree. Hakuoro calls him a bastard and raises his hand, and Nuwangi asks him what he plans to do. Hakuoro steps back and Nuwangi calls him a coward, then cloughts Hakuoro over the back of the head. Hakuoro staggers, and he is punched again. He falls over, and Nuwangi says it is still too early for him to faint.

Teoro, angry, steps between Hakuoro and Nuwangi. Nuwangi tells him to get out of the way. A blade is drawn, and he says that his voice is to be obeyed. Hakuoro groans on the ground, and Nuwangi asks if he is recovering. He says to look at him crawling before him on the ground, and then kicks him. He tells the soldiers to arrest him.

They grab him and his vision shakes, and he tells Nuwangi he's a bastard. Nuwangi says that he's getting what he deserves. Eruruu runs out calling Hakuoro's name, and asks what is going on. Nuwangi tells her to look at his power, how this man is now at his mercy, and it is a sight worth seeing. He tells her that now his power should be understood, and tells her to abandon such a place and to leave with him. She turns her face away and asks him to please stop. She says if this is the real Nuwangi, then she hates him. Nuwangi asks what she is saying, and if it is some sort of joke. She asks why this decree, why he can't understand another person's suffering. He says he is the successor of the feudal lord, and it is the nature of these people to serve him. She asks if he is serious, and then says she would never go with him.

Nuwangi gets mad and demands why several times. The he says that he will make the tax levy even more harsh for them. He says even if she hates him, to become his woman, and then he will do as she says. Teoro yells at how rotten he is, and Nuwangi tells him to shut up. Nuwangi then asks if Eruruu will become his woman. Hakuoro tells her that it is useless, even if she says yes he would not follow his word. Nuwangi tells Hakuoro to shut up and punches him several times. Eruruu cries out, but Hakuoro tells her to not worry. Nuwangi asks her why she is sticking up for such a man, and that Hakuoro is just deceiving her. He then punches him again and says that he's getting what he deserves.

Eruruu tells him to stop already. Nuwangi tells her to them come with him, and he will let Hakuoro go, and they will not tax the village anymore. She says if that's really true, she will go. Nuwangi tells her to promise, and Hakuoro yells out again that it is useless and not to do it.

Tousukuru then steps into view and says that he is a pitiful man. She says he comes intruding on them and showing off, but can't do anything for himself, that everything he does is by the effort of others. She says the most pitiful part is that he doesn't even realize it. He tells her to be silent and listen, how he has known them from the past, and she says a little of the person from the past remains, and now he is just a coward and all of this is foolish.

A soldier tells her that she can't speak to Nuwangi that way, and she says she speaks the truth even if it is unpleasant. The soldier heads towards her and then stops when something hits him. He demands to know who threw the stone, and Aruruu pelts him with another one, telling them to leave her sister and grandma alone. Eruruu tells her to stop, but she continues, telling them to leave them alone. The soldier, enraged, draws his sword, and Hakuoro cries out her name. Nuwangi says wait, but the soldier says he won't take such insolence and brings his sword down. Eruruu screams for him to stop. Then there is a splash of blood.

Tousukuru then falls to the ground, a large wound sliced across her chest from where she had covered Aruruu to protect her. The soldier says she shouldn't have gotten in the way. Nuwangi looks at her and then angry grabs the soldier, asking how he could do such a thing. Eruruu stands in shocked silence, and Nuwangi says it wasn't his fault, she did it of her own accord.

Suddenly the world goes gray in Hakuoro's vision and he screams. A soldier tells him to be quiet and he screams Nuwangi's name, a look of death on his face. Terrified, Nuwangi tells him not to get near him. Everyone glares at Nuwangi, and he asks what is wrong with them, as this isn't his fault, he didn't cause this. Scared, he quickly tells his soldiers to leave, and they all depart.

Eruruu holds Tousukuru, telling her grandmother to hang in there. The world then goes back to normal in Hakuoro's vision, and he comes to them, Eruruu screaming "Grandma!" over and over.

~~~~~

Tousukuru lays in their home with a bandage around her chest, soaked with blood. Eruruu, Aruruu, and Hakuoro surround her. Eruruu tells her to wait and she'll get some medicine, and to hang in there. Tousukuru tells her that it is fine, that her body won't survive much longer. Eruruu tells her not to talk like that. Aruruu then says that it is her fault. Tousukuru tells her it isn't her fault, and throwing a stone is the sort of thing she would've done if she thought of it. She says they are such cute grandchildren, and such good-natured people to not ignore what was going on.

She then says that she wants to see their faces, and tells them they are pretty, and that they both have brought her great pride. Eruruu tells her to stop talking like that, that she is going to get better. Tousukuru then tells Eruruu that she becomes like her older sister more and more. She says that she had a beautiful and gentle elder sister that she loved dearly, and her name was "Eruruu." She says that Eruruu's name came from her elder sister. She then tells Aruruu that she is just like how she was when she was small. She notes how close they are, even if they argue or quarrel, and that they were the only two near relatives she had left. She says with the power of them together will bring them happiness. Aruruu cries for her not to die.

Tousukuru then addresses Hakuoro, and says she has a last request, and if he will hear it. She tells him that she has lived a long time, and has no hesitation about her departure, but she worries about her grandchildren, and what will become of them when she is gone. She says she will not be able to pass on in ease thinking about it, and she asks him to watch over them. Eruruu, crying, tells her not to say such a thing, that they'll be together with her. Hakuoro tells Eruruu that this will put Tousukuru at ease. Eruruu says no, she will not hear it. Hakuoro says Tousukuru shouldn't be tormented by these feelings, and that he understands. He tells her that he will take responsibility for her grandchildren.

Tousukuru meakly says thank you, and asks for their hand. They all place their hands over hers, where it is resting on her chest, and she shuts her eyes. She says that here at the end of her life, she was gifted by meeting Hakuoro, who she knows will take care of her lovely grandchildren, and now she can pass away. She says she has nothing to regret, and then goes silent. Eruruu and Aruruu break down in screaming sobs at their grandmother's death.

~~~~~

Hakuoro steps outside into the night, thinking about the things Tousukuru had told him since he'd met her and how he wasn't able to do anything. He then hears an arrow, and when he goes to it, he recognizes it as Oboro's calling.

He goes out of the town to where they would meet, and sees Oboro cloaked in his cowl. He looks at Hakuoro and then asks where Tousukuru is. Hakuoro tells him that she has died. He stands silent for a moment, then strikes Hakuoro across the face, and Hakuoro can taste blood in his mouth. Oboro removes his cloak and tells Hakuoro that he didn't hear that, and he'd better not try lying again. Hakuoro then says again that she has died, and he punches him across the face again, saying that once again he has said such a lie. He says again that she has died, that just now she has passed on, and he hits him once agian.

Hakuoro stays silent, and Oboro asks how. He hits him and says how has this
happened, why didn't he protect her, and hits him again. Hakuoro remains silent. Oboro says Hakuoro has helped in obligation, and brought a smile to Yuzuha's face, and recently she only talks about him. He punches him again, then says that Yuzuha speaks happily and laughing while she is with him -- another punch -- and looks forward to when the door to her room is opened -- another punch -- and is delighted if it is him but gets depressed if he isn't there. He punches him yet again and says that because he gets to see such a Yuzuha, he's felt such murderous intent towards him, and then punches him hard three times in a row. He says he did not want to admit that seeing that attraction hurt.

Oboro then says how could this happen as long as he was there, how could such a person as her die. Hakuoro remains silent, and he tells him to answer him. When he doesn't, he screams at him to answer. Then Oboro breaks down sobbing, asking him to please tell him. Hakuoro can only manage to say he is sorry, and Oboro curses over and over as he cries.

Later that night, after things have been explained, Oboro says he has a request, a request that he can only ask of Hakuoro. Hakuoro says he doesn't mind, and what it is. Dorii and Guraa then show up carrying a palanquin. They open it, and inside is Yuzuha. Oboro lifts the sleeping Yuzuha from it, and places her in Hakuoro's arms. Hakuoro asks Oboro what the meaning of putting her in his charge is. Oboro says he can't say much now, but he begs this of him.

Dorii and Guraa say that they will accompany Oboro, and he says that they must stay there, and live with the people of the village. They try to protest, and then Hakuoro says, "Surely, you..." Oboro is silent for a moment, then says that Tousukuru was like a parent to them. He said that he did nothing when his parents were killed, and now he will not be softhearted. Hakuoro asks him if he thinks that if by getting revenge he'd please Tousukuru, and he says it isn't a question of being pleased or not, he won't allow them to get away with this.

Hakuoro tells him to stop it, that if something happens to him, what would become of Yuzuha. Oboro says that she has him now. He says that Yuzuha may not live much longer now, and therefore, he wants her to live happily for the moment. Hakuoro asks him what exactly he intends to do, and Oboro says he doesn't have to hide his face. Then he says, for Yuzuha, he begs him. Hakuoro yells at him to wait, but Oboro is gone.

Hakuoro thinks that Oboro is about to do something foolish and thinks of chasing after him, but knows that he would never catch up with that man's legs. However, he doesn't want to let him go out to his death without trying to help.

He then sees Teoro, Sopoku, and the villagers, who had gathered there without him even noticing, he had been so wrapped up in his thoughts. They all look at him, as if waiting for him to say something. Then Teoro says, "Well, village leader?" Hakuoro questions him, and he says that Tousukuru entrusted everything to him, and therefore he is now the village leader. He then tells him to please tell them what they are to do, and they will follow his word. All the villagers nod in consent. Hakuoro says there is no way he can be the village leader, and it should be someone else. Teoro says no, that there is no other, it is to be him, and again all the villagers give their quiet consent.

Dorii and Guraa then ask Hakuoro to please help their young master (Oboro). Dorii asks why they should have to go on living in hiding within the interior of the village, and Guraa says it is the same for the young master. She says their clan was defeated in a power struggle, and he was accused and driven out, to then escape to such a place and be saved from dying a dog's death. They say that they are also the same as the young master.

Hakuoro asks everyone what they can do. Yuzuha then stirs in her sleep, and he looks at her in silence for a minute. He then says there will be no turning back. Teoro says he understands and Hakuoro says that he doesn't. He then says the woman and children are not to be involved, and if he is understood. Sopoku asks why, and Teoro says they should follow Hakuoro's word. Teoro asks him what they are to do. Hakuoro is silent for a moment, then says, "Open the storehouse!"

~~~~~

At the capital, Oboro jumps over the gate, kills the soldier on watch in one fluid motion, and then continues running down the path.

Just outside the castle, Nuwangi is standing outside cursing, wondering why such a thing had to happen. His thoughts are interrupted when he hears something and turns around. Oboro stands on the roof of the palace, and asks if he is Nuwangi. Nuwangi asks who he is. Oboro jumps from the roof and lands behind Nuwangi, then pulls his blades. Oboro says that he would never introduce himself to the likes of him, and then he strikes Nuwangi. Nuwangi yells and he strikes again, and then follows with a powerful blow that knocks Nuwangi back. He runs up to him with his blades poised and says, "Die." Nuwangi looks up in terror.

Outside the gate, a soldier comes out, grumbling about how it is time to change shifts. He then sees the other soldier laying on the ground dead. He shouts out that there is an enemy attack, and sounds the alarm.

Oboro curses when he hears the bell being sounded outside the walls. Nuwangi runs from him, and he tells him to wait and runs after him. He stops at the stairs of the palace, and wonders where the little shit disappeared. Nuwangi then smugly says where is he searching, and then comes down the stairs into view. Oboro asks if he had made the decision to resign to death, and Nuwangi says he is going to be the one to die. Soldiers then rush in from all sides, surrounding Oboro. Nuwangi then laughs, saying the situation has been reversed.

Sasante then comes down the stairs to stand by Nuwangi, saying that this must be the rat that snuck in, and Oboro says the time it took searching could've been saved. Sasante says that it's been a boring night and needed something to pass the time. Oboro yells at him to not make fun of him, and then slices through the soldier in front of him and stands before Sasante, screaming "Die!"

He tries to attack but his thrusts are deflected, and then Sasante delivers a blow that knocks Oboro back. Sasante laughs and says that Oboro is just a youngster, and he is wiser, refined, noble, and a strong soldier, and if he really thought he could win.

Oboro says he is foolish, vulgar, and that he could be mistaken as meat, his stink is so strong. Sasante is silent a moment, then starts laughing, saying that he has an idea for some very amusing entertainment.

Back outside the gate, Hakuoro, Teoro, Dorii, and Guraa slide down the cliff just in
front of the gate. At the sound of the alarm, Dorii and Guraa get worried that it is
Oboro. Teoro tells them to wait, and says they can't forget their plan.

Hakuoro says he will explain it once more. He says first a few people will invade the inside. He then points at a handle on the side of the gate on the far right. He says that someone needs to reach it first and pull it to open the gate, so that then everyone can enter. He says they must gain control there at once. He then thinks to himself how it is much easier said than done. A soldier then comes out and asks who is there, and Hakuoro kills him without hesitation, and then tells everyone that it's time to go.

[Battle 3 - Open the front gate]

The kill the soldiers defending the front gate, and then reach the handle and open it, sending their men through the entrance.

Inside, Oboro tries to fight off the ring of soldiers. He defeats one, breathing heavy and covered in blood, but is still too out-numbered. Sasante asks if it is going to be ended already. Oboro won't give up and Sasante wonders how long he can continue his show of courage, and then tells the soldiers that he will reward whomever kills the rat. Another soldier steps forward and says he'll have him. He and Oboro spar, and then he gets through Oboro's defense and strikes him with his sword. The soldier yells "Die!" and then Oboro lets out a battle cry and goes into a powerful attack, killing him. He pants, still surrounded by another ten soldiers, and Sasante laughs. The soldiers move in and he tells Oboro to scream begging for his life.

Then the sound of an arrow is heard, and several soldiers in the ring fall, shot down. Dorii and Guraa then proclaim that they are there to save their young master. Behind them, Hakuoro, Teoro, and several of the men from their village come forward. Oboro asks what they are doing there. Nuwangi asks what they intend to do, and Hakuoro says he must really be foolish if he can't understand the situation. Nuwangi asks why they don't just call for the old woman, and Hakuoro tells him that she died. Nuwangi says that he must be lying, but all the villagers glare at him. He says that old woman just couldn't die, and then goes pale, and says "Eruruu."

Behind the crowd of villagers stands Eruruu. Nuwangi looks ashen and tells Eruruu that it wasn't him. She says her grandmother cannot open her eyes, and will never wake again, and starts crying. He continues to say it wasn't his fault. Sasante says it looks like the woman who missed death has met death finally. He says that for the sake of one grandmother, they would do such a thing, and then says that it is funny and laughs.

[Battle 4 - Defeat Nuwangi and Sasante]

Hakuoro calls out to Oboro and tells him he is taking on too much and he has to fall behind for a moment. Oboro tells him to stay off his case and that he'll take them down by his own hand. Hakuoro tells him that this is no longer one-on-one fights; this is war. Oboro swears, and moves back to join the others in the fight.

The fight through the soldiers and then attack Nuwangi and Sasante. After being defeated, they tell them to stop, that they understand and to please forgive them, but they just look at them with cold eyes. Scared, they both run into the palace.

Oboro calls after them to wait, but then stops, clutching a wound and cursing in pain. Teoro says they'll take care of it and for him to rest. Teoro yells to chase after them, and not let them go, and he, Dorii, and Guraa go chasing after them. Hakuoro stays behind with Oboro. He offers Oboro his hand to help him stay on his feet. Oboro says that he is sorry, and he is in his debt. He then says that though Hakuoro came and helped and he wishes to express his gratitude, he wants to know why he came, and if they all understand what they have done. Hakuoro doesn't answer, and instead asks if his injury is okay. Oboro says it isn't important. Hakuoro asks if that is so, and that Oboro showed no restraint.

Hakuoro hits Oboro and quotes him saying "Do you understand what you've done." He says that he understands fully without having to say, and what will be happening from now on. He says that after this, the imperial court will send in a punitive force against them, and there are only two paths left for them: to bring them down, or be annihiliated by them. Oboro then asks why he did it if he understood that would happen, that if only he died, it would've ended then. Hakuoro says, "If only you died?" and asks if he is serious. Hakuoro says that above all else, he won't allow this, and now there is no option of retreat, and to be prepared.

He then walks away from Oboro down the path, and see Eruruu standing there, listening silently.

~~~~~

Sasante and Nuwangi are hiding in a storeroom. Sasante says they won't find them through the secret passage. He says that he will remember this disgrace, and will surely dispel of them.

Sounds of running can be heard outside, and Teoro's voice calling out to keep searching, that they have to be around there somewhere. Nuwangi gets nervous, telling his father that they are coming. He tells him not to worry, that they will be held off outside. Nuwangi says that after this is over, he'll kill them. Sasante says that he will be silent and only do as he is told. He asks if Nuwangi has forgotten the kindness he has shown raising him up to now. Nuwangi says he has always been unconcerned, no matter how good of a son he has been. Sasante says that he can always be replaced, and Nuwangi tells him to say that that is a lie. He says that Nuwangi is a good-for-nothing, just like his mother, and that she hadn't been useful up to the very end.

Nuwangi is silent. Sasante says that he thinks they have stopped their search. Nuwangi then says "Father", and Sasante asks what. Then there is a splash of red blood as Nuwangi slices his throat. Then the sound of his sword is heard being run through Sasante's body over and over as Nuwangi laughs maniacally.

~~~~~

Utawareru Mono Summary

By Mastress Alita


~~~~~

Note: My knowledge of Japanese is very limited and this summary was made heavily from information gathered from using Anime Game Text Hooker + Atlas Japanese Translation Software for translation. Therefore, there are likely going to be errors. If you find incorrect information, please let me know so I can fix it.

~~~~~

Part 4


Hakuoro is outside in the village, the dawn finally arriving after the very long night
they had the night before. Oboro comes and tells him that as he said, they've completed taking control of the region, and wants to know what should be done next. He says to set up a military base there, and that men must be deployed and supplies gathered. He says at the same time they also need to work on repairing damaged areas and reinforce them, and since they don't know when the enemy will attack, they need to work quickly. Oboro says he understands and to leave it to him.

Eruruu shows up, bringing them tea. Hakuoro says they really can't take a rest, and she says she understands because of all that must be done. He then notices her eyes are red and that she hasn't slept either. Hakuoro tells her that Teoro and the villagers with him will be returning soon with supplies, and also from burying Tousukuru. Eruruu says nothing, with a lonesome look on her face.

Hakuoro and Oboro drink the tea, and Oboro tells her it is delicious. She says that her grandmother taught her how to make it. He says he is happy to meet her, and that he was very indebted to Tousukuru, and he'd like to speak with her sometime. Aruruu then mutters "Grandma" from her position of being asleep on Hakuoro's back, not wanting to be away from him since the fight. Eruruu apologizes and he says it isn't a problem. She asks if she isn't heavy, and he says there is no problem, she's really light.

Hakuoro thinks about all the things that must be done, that first the military formations have to be set up, that the people have to be gathered to have a meeting, and that food and armor must be gathered immediately. Then his vision goes dizzy, and he drops his teacup, shattering it. Eruruu questions him and he says it is nothing, he just felt a little dizzy but is fine. He tells Oboro that he needs to select people with good armed force and leadership. Oboro says he doesn't mind doing so, but that Hakuoro really should go get some rest like Eruruu says, that his complexion doesn't look good. Hakuoro refuses, saying there is just too much to do. Oboro asks Eruruu to take him back to his bedroom, saying that
Hakuoro just isn't understanding his own situation. Hakuoro tries to protest and Oboro says that if he is to fall there would be no unification and everyone would just be a crowd of people, therefore he needs to behave and just go along with it, and tells him to leave the rest to them. When he sees the worried look on Eruruu's face, he finally complies and says he will rest for a little bit. Oboro tells him trust things to them, he needs to rest up for next battle.

They go inside and Eruruu guides him to a darkened room. Aruruu, having to be woken so that Hakuoro could lay down, slides into bed next to him. Eruruu asks Aruruu what she is doing, that she is in Hakuoro's bed. Hakuoro says he doesn't mind, and then asks what if Eruruu and he slept together. She gets flustered and he says that he is joking. She twacks him and he asks why, and she just says "Honestly..." and leaves the room.

Hakuoro falls asleep, and some time later, rouses a bit in his sleep. Eruruu is next to him, and straightens his bed covers. He thinks that he is feeling a sense of missing something, but doesn't know what it is. He shuts his eyes, thinking about how tired he is, that his body feels like lead and he can't help but sink into the darkness. Then he hears a song, and thinks that he has heard this gentle song before.

~~~~~

Back at the imperial palace, Benaui enters, saying, "You called, Emperor?" A fat man that looks similar to Sasante but with a large afro, Inkara, says he knows the reason. Benaui says that it must be the matter of the revolt. Inkara says he wants to start the suppression immediately, and to leave no one alive, including women and children. Benaui says he is concerned about this proposal, and asks if it shouldn't be discussed with the people. Inkara laughs and says "Discuss? You must be joking." He states that they killed his brother, and he will tear them apart limb from limb in payment.

The court barber enters and says it is time for Emperor Inkara's hair maintenance. Inkara asks if the butsu was obtained, and he says yes, and it has been used to make his special hair tonic to make it further tufty. Inkara laughs and says he doesn't care how much money is spent on his hair. Benaui says he should be more temperate with his expenses, but Inkara says he doesn't care.

Benaui goes back to the subject at hand, saying that the people of the country will ignore that kind of behavior. Inkara gets angry and throws a glass at Benaui, which breaks, cutting his face, but Benaui keeps his same cool demeanor, as if it didn't even happen. Inkara says that it isn't the country who has the people, but the people who have the country, and he is that country, and therefore, things will be done his way. Benaui says that his behavior was too forward, and to be forgiven. Inkara says that it is trivial talk, and then simply changes the subject, saying the banquet feast is to be prepared.

Benaui exits the palace. A large muscley knight, Kurou, comes up to him and says that the preparations to depart to the front are ready. He then notices the wound on Benaui's face. Benaui says it is just a scratch and nothing to be concerned about.

Benaui says that if this becomes a war, the people will suffer in poverty. He thinks to himself that though understanding the depravity, they try to defend their country, and that he is just a another parasite in the rotten fruit. He then calls out to depart for the front, and Kurou yes says and heads off to follow the order.

~~~~~

[Visit outside]

Hakuoro steps outside, the sound of construction going on. He asks how the situation is, and Oboro says that when Teoro returns they will be almost done with the arrangement of their resources. He then gives Hakuoro an organization table of the formations, and asks him to look it over later. Oboro says it has been taking some time to fix damages from the previous battles, especially the restoration of the front gate. Oboro apologizes for his negligance in management, and Hakuoro says it is something that is past and not to blame himself. Hakuoro says the enemy should be there within two days time, and that finishing the restoration should be a top priority, and Oboro says he understands.

Eruruu and Aruruu show up, Aruruu clutching to Hakuoro, nearly knocking him over. Eruruu says they have brought bentou (box lunches) for everyone. Hakuoro thanks them and pats Aruruu on the head. Hakuoro then says that they are out of place there and should be returning. Eruruu turns her head to the side, looking upset. Hakuoro asks if she understands, and she says she doesn't and won't leave. Hakuoro says it is because it is dangerous there, and she still refuses. He asks if Aruruu will go back, and she just clutches to him and says she will stay with Otousan.

Oboro looks at him smugly and says that it might not be so bad, that she wants to stay close because of her fondness for him. Hakuoro tells Oboro not to say something irresponsible, and says that even he would not bring Yuzuha there, and it is the same. Oboro says that to bring Yuzuha along, that she'd be glad to hear his voice. Hakuoro is shocked that Oboro would allow her to be brought to such a place. Oboro says that he trusts Anija (a term meaning "brother"). Hakuoro is surprised he says he'd trust him, and then questions why he is calling him "Anija". Oboro says that he saved his life, and therefore he trusts him, and calling him brother is only natural.

Oboro tells him that for the first time, Yuzuha said "selfish". He also says that for the first time she has called him hopeless. He says that Yuzuha, who normally always listened to everything quietly, did not withdraw this time; Yuzuha said her feelings, and up to now had never talked about her feelings before. He says that Yuzuha is trying to fly from his hand, and if that's the case, he wants her to do as she likes.

Eruruu then says that she is going to say for the first time that Hakuoro is selfish as well. She says that often when they return, the cooking is terrible, the laundry is not done, and the place stinks. Oboro says Hakuoro should be embarrassed, that if his meals are unappetizing the morale of the troops will go down. Hakuoro says that it can't be helped, and he admits his defeat. He then says Eruruu and Aruruu can do as they wish, but to promise him they will leave immediately if things get dangerous, and they agree.

Eruruu comments that it is hard to do the laundry with so many people around, but that it is perfect weather for drying clothes, and that on such a day it somehow seems like the fighting is all a lie. She and Aruruu work on the laundry, when suddenly the alarm bells sound and someone yells out "Enemy attack!"

Hakuoro yells "What?!" and is told that a group of several Rakusharai (cavalrymen) are headed toward there. Hakuoro says that it can't be, it is too soon. Oboro gives orders to have the Perierai (archers) to take them down, and not let them get inside.

Arrows are seen flying toward the group of men, Benaui and Kurou among them, charging toward the town on their Uoputaru, but they all miss. Dorii and Guraa report that it is no good, they are just too fast. Hakuoro tells them to fall back into the interior. He sees Eruruu in the midst of the chaos, and yells for her to get out of there.

Benaui and his troops break into the town, and he slashes down at Hakuoro, who barely blocks it. Benaui and Hakuoro continue to fight, and Hakuoro notes to himself how strong Benaui is. There is a large clash of metal as Benaui gets an attack through Hakuoro's defense, and he tells him to resign.

Oboro yells out to Hakuoro and tells him to pull back. There is a clash of metal as Kurou attacks Oboro. Oboro lets out a battle cry as he fights against Kurou. Kurou laughs and says that if Oboro plans to challenge his general, he's ten years too soon. Kurou continues his ruthless attacks, injuring Oboro.

Hakuoro clears his head from the blow he took from Benaui, and sees Aruruu, as well as Eruruu. He yells for them both to get out of there, but they don't leave, staring at Benaui. Benaui tells Hakuoro to surrender, because he does not like useless cruelty, and he looks at the sisters.

Then a battle cry is heard and a flash of metal, as Teoro attacks Benaui. Teoro says they seemed to make it just in time, and are there to help. Benaui looks at the crowd of villagers that has arrived, and then tells all hands to retreat. Kurou says "Roger" and gives Oboro one last hit, and then the troops leave.

Oboro, covered in blood, yells for them to wait, wondering why they are running away. Hakuoro tells him not to chase after them, and he angrily asks why. Hakuoro says there is no way to catch up with their speed, and that he needs to keep a cool head, as those men are highly skilled. He says that they need to think ahead, if he went chasing after them with a hot head the most he could do would be a would-be avenger that got killed. He says that those guys will respond by crossing swords again, and to wait for that time. Oboro says he understands, but tells Hakuoro to promise that Benaui's neck will be his. Hakuoro said he understands.

Oboro leaves, yelling at the others that they don't know when the enemy will attack again and to speed up the repairs. Hakuoro thinks to himself how if Teoro and his group had been just a little later, it would have been too late, and takes notice of the skill of his opponents.

He then shouts at Eruruu and Aruruu, who are standing with somewhat frightened expressions on their faces. He says he told them to leave, yet they did not, and why did they do such a thing, and if they think he'd be pleased with such behavior. Teoro tells him not to scold them so much, and Sopoku says it is the first time for the women to see such a thing. Hakuoro says he understands that, but how is he to apologize to Tousukuru who believed in him and entrusted in him to take care of Eruruu and Aruruu. Eruruu says she is sorry, and Hakuoro embraces both of them, holding them close and petting their disheveled heads. Eruruu says that his strong embrace is a bit painful, and he says that after all, it is
necessary to punish a bad child.

~~~~~

Outside in the forest, Kurou remarks that they aren't coming, and their trap has been made useless. Benaui says that this war is likely going to be a hard fight. He says that he thinks Hakuoro is the chief of their village and not just a mere soldier, and Kurou says that he should've given them permission to kill, and they shouldn't have made the mistake of letting him live. Benaui says they don't understand their movement, that they aren't just a disorderly crowd, they are led by a person with knowledge in warfare since they had such results with such little experience. Benaui says this isn't the end, and to return until they have recovered from the situation.

~~~~~

[Visit Yuzuha's room]

Eruruu asks Hakuoro if he is going out. He says yes, that he wants to go see Yuzuha's condition. He asks Eruruu if she'll go along with him. She says, "Ah, but..." and then Aruruu pops out and says "Let's go." Hakuoro asks if Eruruu doesn't want to go, and she stammers a bit again, but then says they should go in a hasty manner, confusing him.

They go outside, and Hakuoro explains how Yuzuha has been bedridden since childhood and has never had friends. He says they should be around the same age, and asks if they will make friends with her. They agree and he says it should make Yuzuha very happy, and says that child has that right. Eruruu goes silent, and Hakuoro asks her what is wrong, but she says it is nothing.

They enter Yuzuha's home, and she opens her eyes and says "Hakuoro-sama?" as they enter. He asks how she feels and if she got a lot of sleep, and she says yes. He puts his hand to her forehead, and says it seems she has a fever. Yuzuha says that somehow she'd like to see her brother, and Hakuoro tells her those words would mean a lot to Oboro. She says that Hakuoro's hands are larger than her brothers, but still feel nice. He says really, and pets her head.

Yuzuha asks who the people behind him are. He says he will introduce the children, and Eruruu makes a sour face. He asks what it is and says she seems really out of it, but she says it is nothing. Yuzuha says that it is nice to meet her and lifts her body from the bed and bows. Eruruu gives her name and then says the other is her younger sister Aruruu. Yuzuha says that they have the same smell as Tousukuru-sama, and Eruruu says from now on she'll take care of her in place of her grandmother.

Eruruu motions to Aruruu to come introduce herself, but she is off moving around the house. They then notice she's eating a fruit she swiped from the kitchen, and Eruruu tells her that is very impolite to eat without permission. Yuzuha laughs and says it is true, and Eruruu looks confused. Yuzuha asks them to tell her a story, and says she wants to hear the story of the time that on the way to the bath Aruruu, who was naked, had to be chased all over the house. She said it made her happy, and Eruruu sweatdrops.

Hakuoro, realizing the mention of that story has put him in a bad situation, decides it would be best to make a strategic retreat immediately. He tries sneaking off and Eruruu asks where he is going. He says he'll leave the young ones and tells Yuzuha that he needs to be going, then pets her head, and she blushes. Aruruu then runs up to him whining "Otousan~" and he says isn't she a spoiled child, and then pets her head too, and she blushes with pleasure. Eruruu looks annoyed, and then he says, "Here, Eruruu" and pets her on the head as well. Her expression turns sour and she bites him.

[Visit gathering house]

Hakuoro is doing calculations on the warehouse food supply, and is confused because it isn't adding up; the amount of food is decreasing drastically more than should be from the calculations. Eruruu enters with some tea, and asks him what's going on. He tells her the warehouse calculations are off, and somehow there is a mistake no matter how many times he calculates it. He says he is going to take a look in the warehouse, and she says she'll go with him.

They enter and see Aruruu. Hakuoro asks what she is doing there, and she tries to look calm, but figits. A sound of chewing is heard in the background. Hakuoro wonders what the sound is, and tries to go take a look, but Aruruu says "Don't!" and blocks his way. Trying to look behind her, he sees a lump shifting in the dimness. Eruruu asks what is behind Aruruu. Aruruu keeps blocking the way and shaking her head. Hakuoro's eyes start to become adjusted to the dark, and the shape behind her starts to come into vision.

Eruruu sees and asks Aruruu what Mukkuru is doing there. Hearing the name, Hakuoro recalls that Mukkuru was Muteikapa's cub. A huge white tiger then comes into view and Hakuoro jumps back, not believing that is the cub and wondering when she got this big. The chewing sound continues and he realizes that she's eating, and that's why the numbers of food supply are decreasing more than they should be.

Eruruu yells at Aruruu, who looks back sadly, saying that Mukkuru was hungry and needed a meal. Mukkuru makes a pleased face. Eruruu gets very angry and asks what they are doing, and hits Mukkuru across the nose. Mukkuru gives off a pitiful whine that doesn't sound like it should come from such a big body, and runs behind Aruruu for protection. Eruruu says that Aruruu should understand well just how important the food is, and wants to know why she went and did something so selfish. Aruruu says "But..." and Eruruu proclaims "No buts!" Eruruu glares, and both Aruruu and the tiger cower.

Hakuoro thinks back to Teoro standing in front of the growing fields saying that thanks to all the villagers, they will eat well this year, the words running through his head. He says this isn't a good situation and they are going to have to reconsider things. Eruruu says "But..." and when her face is turned momentarily, Aruruu and Mukkuru scamper behind Hakuoro, trying to hide behind his back, and Hakuoro finds himself in the middle of Eruruu and Aruruu's dilemma. He says they should just think about this, and Eruruu says that he spoils Aruruu too much, and it isn't like she likes having to be angry. He thinks to himself why he always ends up in such circumstances.

~~~~~

Hakuoro and his group are riding in the forest. Oboro says that he personally doesn't need to go to the other villages to ask for help, that he and Teoro could take care of it and summon the other village chiefs, and no one would ignore his calling since he is Tousukuru's successor. Hakuoro says no, that since he is the one dragging them into war, he should at least show courtesy, and Oboro says that is just like him.

Hakuoro looks over at Eruruu, who looks rather uncomfortable. Hakuoro asks why she was squirming earlier, and she says it is nothing. Teoro asks if she has to pee, and they could wait for her in the vacinity. She says that is not it, and he says it isn't like her to be so restless. Oboro says that's not it, that surely it is because she hasn't ridden on an Uopataru in some time, and her groin and tail must hurt. He says that when you aren't accustomed to it, it's pretty painful, and that he experienced it as a kid. Teoro says indeed, and she tells them not to say such weird things. Oboro says that is the situation, and it is nothing to be embarrassed about, but she says it is embarrassing. Hakuoro asks if it's painful, and she stutters. Teoro says they don't use Uoputaru as a means of travel
very often, and Oboro says that riding is one of his strong points, as he doesn't tire, can make tight turns, and doesn't get hemorrhoids from riding too much. Eruruu whaps him and he sweatdrops.

Hakuoro then says that they will take a rest then. She says it really isn't necessary and he says they have been riding all morning and should take a rest anyway. Aruruu goes over to Eruruu and she asks what it is, and Aruruu shoves her, and she falls. Aruruu promptly scampers off while Eruruu calls for her to come back and rubs her sore butt. Everyone else just stares.

Some time passes. Dorii and Guraa bring Oboro the water skin, and he then gives it to Hakuoro, and he drinks from it gratefully. Hakuoro asks Teoro where their destination is, and he says it's just a little ways out of the forest. Aruruu runs up to Hakuoro and shakes him, and he asks what it is. She says there is something weird and points, and Hakuoro looks, seeing smoke in the distance. Teoro notices it is coming in the direction of the village they were heading toward. Hakuoro mounts his Uoputaru and starts riding off, as Teoro asks him to wait.

Hakuoro enters the village, to find all the buildings in flames and dead people laying in the streets. The others join him, aghast at what they find. On the other side of the village, they see Benaui, Kurou, and their soldiers. As soon as he sees them Oboro curses and tries to go after them, but Hakuoro tells him to wait. Benaui asks Hakuoro if he is the leader. He tells him his name, and then says there will only be more victims like this if he continues fighting, and to throw away their arms and surrender quietly. Oboro says he has to be kidding, after doing such a thing to these victims. Benaui says if they hadn't started the revolt in the first place, this wouldn't have happened, and asks them again to throw away their arms.

Hakuoro says he wants to ask him something first, and asks Benaui if he did this. Benaui asks if that is the case as he says, and Hakuoro says then he'll be sorry. Benaui says in that case, it really is regrettable. Teoro and Oboro get angry, and Hakuoro tells Eruruu and Aruruu to step back. Eruruu agrees and calls for Aruruu, but can't find her. Benaui then tells the men to go, and metal is unsheathed as they come forward to attack Hakuoro's party.

[Battle 5 - Defeat Benaui and Kurou]

The fight begins, and shortly into it Hakuoro realizes they are at a real disadvantage against all of Benaui's Uoputaru-riding pikemen. The suddenly all the Uoputaru starts to freak out, and Benaui says something is scaring them. Up above them on a cliff, Mukkuru growls, Aruruu sitting on her back. Aruruu tells her to go, and then leap down the cliff and land in the battlefield. She says she will not forgive Otousan's enemy. Benaui says that he can't believe it, it is Muteikapa, and Kurou sweatdrops, saying they aren't fighting fair.

As they fight, when Aruruu and Mukkuru attack Benaui, he tells her to step back. When she refuses, he says he will only aim at Muteikapa. Oboro then comes in and Benaui recognizes him and says he is the one limited to his arms and he will go easy on him, and Oboro says he'd better not go easy on him, and to promise. Hakuoro comes in and adds another attack to Benaui, and Benaui asks him once again if he won't change his mind and surrender. Hakuoro says he must settle this, and they continue fighting.

They defeat Benaui and he says he is sorry, but will have to leave things to Kurou. Oboro comes forward and attacks Kurou, and they insult each other a bit as they fight. The battle continues until Kurou is also defeated.

After the fight, Hakuoro says that Benaui and his men have been defeated, and Benaui says it would appear that way. There is a flash of white and in an instant, they are on the other side of the town. Oboro curses and says that it's their nature to run away, and Benaui says they do have to be leaving, but first he wants to hear two things. First, he asks if they think it is right, what he is doing. Oboro says it is only natural not to, because they actually have a sense of justice and morals. Hakuoro remains silent, looking at Benaui, and Oboro questions him. Hakuoro says that if there is Diinebokushiri (their Hell), he'll likely fall there, and Benaui asks if that is his answer. Hakuoro then asks what the other thing he wants to hear is, and Benaui asks his name. Hakuoro tells him, and
Benaui says he will remember it, then says he will see them again on the battlefield. He and his men then ride off, Kurou calling over his shoulder that it's time for them to eat.

Oboro says how dare they behave like that, and Hakuoro asks if they really did this. Oboro says "What?", and Hakuoro says that though it is hard to say, it seemed strange for them to be there, especially since before they had gone easy on them. Oboro is surprised for Hakuoro to say that they went easy on them, but Hakuoro says that apart from the others, Benaui, if serious, wouldn't do such a thing. Oboro asks why they would make such a lie, and Hakuoro says he doesn't know.

Hakuoro says this will greatly change the situation of the war. He says that those that planned to take it for granted and remain a spectator will now merge together given this situation, and that will give them a better chance of winning. Hakuoro says that people's lives are being manipulated like chess pieces, and this disaster was used as a means of bargaining.

Hakuoro asks Oboro that if a man thinks something he's doing is correct, can he still feel his chest tighten. Oboro says "Anija..." and Hakuoro continues, saying that what Benaui said was right, if he hadn't caused the revolt, this wouldn't have happened, and now even Aruruu has been pulled into the war. Oboro asks what he is saying, that in such a matter they follow Hakuoro because they believe in him, even if he were to lie. Hakuoro says he understands, and that will be the last idle complaint from him, but he wanted them to hear it a last time.

Aruruu says they should return, and asks Hakuoro to take her piggyback. She jumps up on his back so he'll carry her, and Mukkuru makes an amused face. Oboro laughs. Then he tells Hakuoro that whether Hakuoro is correct or incorrect, it'll be fine, and he will follow him anywhere. The others all agree with him, and then Teoro says they had better get back, everyone is waiting for them.