The Far End of Japan

A group of exiles are being taken by boat to Tsushima Island when they are caught in a savage storm. They plead for their bonds to be removed, but then take over the boat and commence fighting among themselves. Kuchii Jinzaburō, saves Chō Minpuku, a fellow exile, and then fights to defend himself from other prisoners. He frees the pirate Onitakemaru who raises the mast and helps sail the boat towards Tsushima Island. On arrival, the boatload of exiles and crew are warmly welcomed by Princess Teruhi, but then find they are asked to defend the island against the Mukuri (Mongols). Pressed by Jinzaburō, Teruhi tells them that she had asked the Dazaifu magistrate to send able-bodied prisoners to support her. That night, masked intruders attack and the prisoners free themselves. Kaitani Gontarō tries to fight them off, but the princess is captured. Onitakemaru and then Jinzaburō intervene, Jinzaburō killing all but one of the masked attackers and rescuing Teruhi. The next day, overlooking the slain, Teruhi is distraught at the carnage of war, but Jinzaburō tells her it is just a skirmish. She promises him a reward and asks for his aid. The next day, October 3 of the 11th year of the Bunmei era, Kano reports that a fleet of Mukuri ships are heading for Tsushima Island.