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“SHOGUN” © 2003. Okihei Enterprise, Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Tribute to Richard Chamberlain |
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| Blackthorne, Mariko, Fujiko and Buntaro are
seated on cushions.
Mariko:"My husband says that he heard what you told Lord Yabu -- that a hundred men with muskets could defeat his five hundred. My husband says that his bow and arrow can kill at a much greater range, with greater accuracy and faster than -- than a musket. Blackthorne:"Tomorrow I will shoot against him and we will see, if he likes". Mariko:"You will lose, Anjin-san. I am sorry. May I caution you not to attempt that". Blackthorne:"Thank you, Mariko-san. Please say to him that I would like to see him shoot tomorrow". |
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| Blackthorne:"Tell Buntaro-sama that in my
country a
host toasts the honored guest. Long life and happiness!" Buntaro listens to the explanation, then he nods in agreement -- lifting his Owu cup and draining it. The cups are quickly refilled. Blackthorne instantly raises his. Blackthorne drinks -- but Buntaro does not. Mariko:"My husband -- my husband says you wanted to see him shoot, Anjin-san. He thinks tomorrow is too far away. Now is a good time. The gateway of your house. He asks which post do you choose? The left or the right post? Please choose". At once Buntaro slides an arrow from the quiver and still sitting fits the arrow into the bow. He draws the bowstring to eye level and releases it. Mariko:"He - - my husband would like you to go look". Blackthorne:"There is no need. |
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| The five arrows are within an inch of each other in the left gatepost. Blackthorne stands there, staring at them -- then he looks back at the house. |
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| Blackthorne:"Mariko-san, please tell my consort
that I would
like the arrows left in the post forever. All of them. To remind me of a master archer". The Servants rush to fill the small cups -- but Blackthorne takes the flask and fills two larger tea cups with sake. |
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| Mariko:"I am sorry, Anjin-san, but my husband
order me to tell
to tell you about myself. About my family. He commands me. My maiden name is Akechi. I am the daughter of general Lord Akechi Jinsai, the assassin. My father treacherously assassinated his liege lord, the Dictator Lord Goroda". Blackthorne:"Your -- father? Why?" Mariko:"My husband says correctly that it is enough for me to tell you that I am the daughter of a traitor. Long explanations are unnecessary. He orders me to leave now". |