| “ | I acknowledge my own weakness. My lack of experience. Yet...yet one should be free to choose one's own life whether man or woman...and regardless of one's station...isn't it only natural to feel that way? | ” |
—Yamada Asaemon Sagiri (Chapter 13) | ||
Yamada Asaemon Sagiri (山田浅ェ門
After the shogun called for criminals to acquire the Elixir of Life from the dangerous island known as Kotaku, in exchange for a pardon for their past crimes, Sagiri recruited Gabimaru and was put in charge of acting as his monitor on the mission. Shortly after, Sagiri became a part of a united front formed from the remaining surviving criminals and executioners to defeat Lord Tensen, work together in capturing the elixir, and have everyone escape the island.
Appearance
Sagiri is a young woman with long dark hair that she keeps in a ponytail with a very long ribbon. She wears the standard attire of a Asaemon: a white robe along with a hakama held together with a corset, a bell tied her left collar, a gauntlet on her left arm, and sandals.
Gallery
Other
Personality
Sagiri generally displays a calm demeanor when taking on her role as an executioner. However, after landing on Kotaku, she allowed herself to act casual around others as long as she continued to do her job. She is very polite and caring towards her fellow Asaemon members, despite the fact that she is aware that some view her as being unworthy of becoming a samurai. However, she is not afraid to speak her mind and to stand up for herself.[1][2]
Sagiri takes her work as an executioner seriously, refusing to allow Gabimaru to do as he please on the island and made sure to keep watch over him, and Yuzuriha, at all times.[3][4][5] As noted by Kishō, Sagiri sticks to following the rules, which was pointed out by the fact that she had kept the bindings on her assigned criminal even though the other Yamada Asaemons knew that it would risk the chances of finding the elixir. However, she can allow herself to bend the rules a little, as she overlooked Gabimaru's attempt to kill her.[6]
Sagiri's serious behavior doesn't only apply to her job as an executioner. When she acted on her role as an inspector, Sagiri made sure Gabimaru answered all her questions, even during one of his executions, and constantly reminded others that she was doing her job.[7][8] Another instance was when Gabimaru and Mei were planning on washing themselves, Sagiri aimed to give them a proper bath, viewing it as an "operation".[9] She is also able to accept certain unfortunate events that have fallen, though it will take some time for her to allow the situation to seek in.
Sagiri laughs at one of Shion's puns.
Though she takes matters seriously, Sagiri does possess a sense of humor. When Sagiri was feeling depressed about her clansmen's deaths and Gabimaru's wife possibly not existing, Shion gave out one of his puns to lighten the mood, which made Sagiri grin. She later burst out laughing at another one of his jokes she found to be funny.
Sagiri is also kind and caring. After Mei was preparing to take a bath, Sagiri kindly washed her clean. When Hōko's head was severed from his body, Sagiri willingly carried him and expressed her relief that he was still alive. From her experience as an executioner, Sagiri is capable of understanding the feelings of others from within their hearts.[10] She was able to tell that Gabimaru was lying to himself about wanting to die and saw how he has been bearing the weight of the people he has killed. Through this, she is capable of showing compassion even towards criminals. This trait allowed Sagiri to start seeing that Gabimaru is not truly an evil person and caused her to show genuine concern for his well-being.
After her experience with working successfully with criminals and witnessing the deaths of her fellow clansmen, Sagiri resolved to abandon her role as an executioner on the mission and viewed everyone that came not as a criminal or an executioner but as allies so they can work together to return home safely.
Relationships
Family
Yamada Asaemon Kichiji
Sagiri was inspired to become an executioner after witnessing her father's skills. However, like his clan members, Kichiji believed that women in the Yamada Clan were not worthy of wielding a sword and disapproved of Sagiri's pursuit. Sagiri remembers the times her father looked down on her as she continued her training.
Gabimaru
Sagiri and Gabimaru come to an understanding.
When they first met, Sagiri saw Gabimaru as nothing more than a criminal. After witnessing his ability of bearing the weight of the lives he takes, Sagiri used Gabimaru as a source of inspiration to try to conqueror her fear of killing people, however, because of her job as an Asaemon, her view of him did not change. Gabimaru remained neutral to the fact that he was a criminal in her eyes as long as he could find the Elixir of Life. However, the situation had changed when Gabimaru was warned by Kisho of Iwagakure potentially being involved in the mission. He knew that his time would run out and he had to kill Sagiri. As the two clashed in battle, Sagiri was confused as to why she was holding back and why she could not see Gabimaru as an enemy. After being defeated and prepares to be killed by the ninja, she sees him halt his blade and crying, confessing to her that he won't have the privilege of returning to his wife as long as he feels sentimentality. Seeing Gabimaru in a new light, Sagiri realized that he has been grieving for all the lives he has taken. She then tells him that his emotions is what made him strong and vows to accompany him on his mission if he faces his emotions while redeeming himself.
After their battle, Gabimaru takes Sagiri's safety into consideration. He subconsciously saved her from danger of the Sōshin and kicked Rokurōta away from attacking her. In return Sagiri shows concern for Gabimaru whenever he is injured or in danger. Though they look after each other, Sagiri continues to focus on her job and keeps watch over Gabimaru.
Yuzuriha
Yuzuriha is friendly around Sagiri and refers to her as Sagi-rin.
History
Sagiri is the daughter of Yamada Asaemon Kichiji. When she was young, Sagiri watched as her father skillfully decapitated a condemned performer with a single swing of his sword. From that day she became inspired to walk the path of an executioner and achieve the same level of skill as her father. As she began her training on how to wield a sword, Sagiri was looked down on by her fellow Yamada members, as well as her father, for being a female following the path of a samurai. Sagiri was also shunned by other children because of the clan's bad reputation. Despite the harsh treatment she faced, Sagiri managed to earn her name as a Yamada Asaemon and a ranking with the help of Yamada Asaemon Shugen.
Plot
Island Arc
- Main article: Island Arc
Sagiri offering Gabimaru a chance to be free of his crimes.
Before executing the captured criminal Gabimaru, Sagiri records his past life as he survives the executions he has been sentence to. After revealing herself as a Asaemon, she prepares to decapitate him but was shocked to see that he dodged her sword. He then ponders as why this action occurred which Sagiri answers saying that it was because he wanted to see his wife. Sagiri then offers him a chance to be pardon for his crimes by accepting a mission from the shogun, which is to find the Elixir of Life on an island. Seeing an opportunity to be free, Gabimaru accepts.
Later, Sagiri places Gabimaru with other criminals that also wish to be pardon. Before the criminals could travel to the island, they were told to start a massacre until only a few were available to depart. As the criminals began to kill each other, Yamada Asaemon Eizen attempts to discourage Sagiri into not taking the mission but to no avail. Three criminals then try to attack Sagiri and escape. Sagiri manages to decapitate them but trembles in fear. She then observes Gabimaru killing and notices how he bears the weight of the people he has killed and wishes to do the same in order to overcome her weakness. After the massacre ends, Sagiri is tasked with being Gabimaru's Asaemon and promises that she will be the one to execute him.
Sagiri and Gabimaru land on the island.
After arriving with Gabimaru on the island, Gabimaru tells Sagiri of his leaders immortal body and how the Elixir of Life may exist but is unconvinced that it may be on the island. Sagiri disagrees after describing the islands environment as being something out of a fairy tale but Gabimaru responds saying that it was unnatural. Gabimaru then frees himself of his bindings but Sagiri tells him that this action was prohibited. He then throws out multiple complaints, causing Sagiri to draw out her sword and puts Gabimaru in line to which he agrees to rebind his hands. Sagiri is then shocked to see Gabimaru's neck snap after being hit by a surprise attack by Warped Keiun. She sees that Gabimaru survived the attack and explains to her that he say the attack coming and dislocated his neck. Gabimaru then takes note of the fact that Keiun's hands were not bound and complained to Sagiri, to which she asked Keiun's Asaemon, Yamada Asaemon Kishō, as to why he broke the rules. Kishō answers saying that he will redo the bindings once the mission is over. He then found it idiotic that Sagiri would argue with her criminal over something so meaningless, causing Sagiri to become annoyed and get a stern look from Gabimaru. Warped Keiun then declares that he will kill Gabimaru and the rest of the criminals on the island. Gabimaru then looked at Kishō with concern but the Asaemon explained that fighting between criminals were not prohibited and that the Asaemon were only here to monitor. Gabimaru then clashed against Keiun and killed him. Sagiri was shocked of Gabimaru's strength and was told by him that they should continue to look for the elixir.
Sagiri intercepting a sword attack from Gabimaru.
Kishō then cuts off the head of Warped Keiun's body and prepares to leave. Sagiri warns him to be cautious due to the men that were sent to the island went missing. However, Kishō informs her that she should worry about herself and how the criminals are making their move, telling her that the rules should not be taken seriously since it might risk the chances of finding the elixir. He then pointed towards Gabimaru as an example and offers her a chance to return home by killing him, but Gabimaru silenced him and told him that he did not care for what he said. Kishō then warned Gabimaru that Iwagakure might get involved in the mission and told Sagiri that this mission will determine the next head of the Yamada clan and makes his leave. After listening to Kishō, Sagiri thought about how she still couldn't figure out Gabimaru's true intentions but shrugged it off. She then asked Gabimaru where to go next but suddenly clashes swords with him. Sagiri asked for an explanation for this action, to which he responds by saying that he wanted to kill her painlessly.
Gabimaru told Sagiri that if what Kishō said about Iwagakure was true, he had no time to waste and that Sagiri would only get in his way of finding the elixir. As they continue to clash swords, Sagiri knew that she would have to execute Gabimaru but could not see him as an enemy and hesitates in her attacks. Just when Gabimaru was gaining the upper hand, he apologizes to Sagiri about that he has to kill her. Sagiri questioned his apology, saying that someone like him could not feel sentiment. Gabimaru agreed with her and later pins her down in a murderous intent. Before Gabimaru could deal the final blow, he stops in confusion. He then cries while stating that he won't be able to see his wife again if he is this weak. However, Sagiri disagrees with him and tells him that by not running away from his emotions he is strong. She then vows that if he faces his emotions while reclaiming his life then she will support him throughout his trials. Finally, Sagiri tells Gabimaru that he is no longer the man he was before and sheathes his sword.
Sagiri falls unconscious.
After the fight, the two encounter a strange fish creature that prepares to attack. Gabimaru tells Sagiri to stay back and engages in battle. However, the creature thrashes him around and Gabimaru believes that it would be save for them to flee. Before they could find a window of opportunity to escape, they are surrounded by more large strange creatures. Believing that there was no way out, Gabimaru massacres the horde. Sagiri watches in horror and becomes overwhelm when realizing how much her life changed when she came to the island. She then notices that she is about to be attacked from behind, but Gabimaru manages to save her subconsciously. Sagiri thanks Gabimaru for saving her but suddenly has his head wrapped by one of the creatures tentacles.
Just when Gabimaru was in danger, Yamada Asaemon Genji appears and kills the monster. He then appears with Yamada Asaemon Senta and Yuzuriha who introduces herself. Sagiri wonders as to why the kunoichi has two Asaemon's and asked. Genji explains that Yuzuriha killed his original assigned criminal, Moro Makiya and made the judgement of follow her, seeing as she was to dangerous to be left with one Asaemon. However, Gabimaru and Sagiri were not fooled and knew that Genji fell for her charms. Yuzuriha proposes in teaming up to find the elixir but Gabimaru refuses. She then persuades them by providing the two with information regarding the human-faced butterflies and Senta tells them about the monsters and statues have attributes involving Buddhism and Tao gives his opinion of the the island not being the Pure Land. Sagiri agrees and says that though the monsters appear as sacred beings they are simply living creatures based on their anatomy. After conversating with each other, Gabimaru agrees with pairing up. Sagiri looks back on the events that had occurred since she came to the island, she becomes overwhelmed and feels powerless. She then faints in front of everyone.
Sagiri being ordered by Genji to leave the island.
After having a nightmare about her father, Sagiri wakes up and finds herself in a cave. She then sees the others working while she was a sleep. Gabimaru then explains his findings after roaming around the island and Senta includes his analyzes on the statues. Sagiri gives them information on the monsters, explaining that while she was cutting them she did not detect any signs of internal organs or genitalia and that their characteristics were random. Upon hearing this, Gabimaru smiles in excitement knowing that the elixir may actually exist. Senta tells them that they should investigate further on the monsters. Sagiri steps outside and notices that the sun is setting. She is then met by Genji who orders her to leave the island and return to the mainland. Sagiri wishes to stay, saying that it is her duty to watch over Gabimaru. However, Genji believes that she does not possess enough skill to survive the island and her gender limits her. Senta over hears their conversation and tells them that escaping the island may not be so easy as the dispatched samurai never returned. However, Sagiri is told by him to depart at dawn. Senta tells believes that it would be a good idea but also believes that she should stay to watch Gabimaru because he knows he can't return home without her or for another unknown reason for his change of heart.
When it came midnight, Sagiri keeps watch over Gabimaru. He says that he is not going to sleep but she says that it was her duty. Gabimaru then asked if she was recovering, which surprises Sagiri since this something unexpected coming from Gabimaru. She listens to Gabimaru being grateful for helping him find his resolve and compliments on her strength. She stares at him in confusion wondering what he meant. After Gabimaru tells her a quote from his village about finding ones self, Sagiri uses this as encouragement.
Sagiri pleading to Genji to accept the path she has taken.
The next day, Sagiri meets Genji and tells him that she will not be leaving. Remembering the times she was shunned by everyone, including her father, about becoming a samurai, she explains that she could not bear to leave. Genji felt that its only natural for her to live a life as woman but Sagiri pleads to him to view her as a samurai and the fact that this is the life she choice to live. Genji becomes furious and attacks Sagiri with his sword. Sagiri intercepts his attack and catches his blade, reminding him of the lesson he taught her yesterday. As Genji angrily snatches his blade away, Sagiri tries to warn him of Rokurōta standing behind him.
Genji sees Rokurōta about to attack and pushes Sagiri out the way. Rokurōta sends Genji crashing and Sagiri runs to his aid, not aware that Rokurōta is about to attack. Fortunately, Gabimaru arrives and sends the giant crashing with a kick. Sagiri sadly realizes that Eizen is not with him which meant that he was killed. Gabimaru tells Sagiri to fall back so that she would not endanger herself. Sagiri moves Genji to a save location to heal his wounds. Genji tells her that it was no use and gives her permission to leave him behind, but Sagiri refuses. Genji found it confusing as how Sagiri acted as a man earlier but is now acting as a woman. Sagiri didn't care whether she was acting either one as long as she can help him. Hearing her words, Genji finally understands Sagiri and gives her one of his swords, putting his faith in Sagiri to take down Rokurōta. Sagiri joins Gabimaru and manages to cut one of Rokurōta's fingers. The two then asked for their assistant.
Sagiri fighting Rokurōta.
Since his neck is too high for her too reach, Sagiri tells Gabimaru that she can't decapitate Rokurōta. Gabimaru tells her to cut his legs to get him on his knees but Sagiri tells him that it would not be an easy task. After Gabimaru deflects his attack, Sagiri gets behind him and gets ready to cut his right leg, however, she remembers Eizen's demise and Genji wounded, causing her to be unable to cut his leg. She dodges his attack and tries to focus on leaving her emotions behind and rely on reason. She tries another attempt at his arm but is unable to cut him once again, noting that his bones are in the way while rampaging. After the giant's stomach rumbles and cries in hunger, Rokurōta slams Gabimaru to the ground and manages to injure him. She comes to his aid and sees another attack coming. Remembering Genji's words, Sagiri relies on both her emotions and reason to stop Rokurōta. Sagiri blocks everyone of Rokurōta's attacks, causing him to fall back and gain an opportunity to sneak behind him. However, before she could execute him, Rokurōta jumps out of Sagiri's attack. Gabimaru notes how their normal tactic is not working and comes up with a plan that is extreme.
Sagiri beheads Rokurōta and lays his soul to rest.
Gabimaru sets himself on fire and sends multiple flaming ninjutsu attacks towards Rokurōta who deflects it away to the trees. Gabimaru explains that he purposely wanted Rokurōta to deflect the attacks away to cause a forest fire so he can have him suffocate from the smoke. Once Rokurōta goes down on his knees, Sagiri comes in to behead him while Gabimaru holds him down. Sagiri focuses and makes the cut. After beheading Rokurōta, Sagiri holds his head and lays his soul to rest. Before leaving with Gabimaru, Sagiri thinks of Genji but tells herself that she must remain strong.
After Gabimaru suggests going towards the direction the monsters came, he asked Sagiri if she was worry about her comrades. She states that worry about her comrades would dishonor them and that completing the mission would free them of this mission. The two catch up to Yuzuriha and Senta and come across an abandoned village. Senta explains that this must be the place where the Hermits live on the island but Gabimaru says that the important thing to focus on was if they were friend or foe.
Lord Tensen Arc
- Main article: Lord Tensen Arc
Gabimaru notices someone is watching them and chases after them, discovering that it was a little girl. He then dodges an attack coming from a tree monster but instead of engaging in battle, Gabimaru decides to chases after the girl, thinking she might know more about the island. Seeing as how she can't let him out of her sight, Sagiri goes after Gabimaru and leaves the rest to Yuzuriha and Senta. Sagiri is shocked to see Gabimaru thrown by the child and assures her that they don't intend to cause any harm to her. After the girl stops running, Sagiri approaches her but the girl prepares to throw a punch towards Sagiri. Gabimaru comes in to block her attack and restrains her. Sagiri tells Gabimaru to let her go after the girl cries from Gabimaru's intimation. She then calms her and brings her back with them. Gabimaru wanted to ask her about the elixir but Sagiri tells him that it wouldn't be possible with her crying. She is then shocked to hear the tree monster talking, ask for them to unhand the girl and that it could tell them about the elixir and also guide them to the village.
The tree monster persuades the group to come to the village, however, Sagiri doubts whether they should trust it. The monster says that it will not trick them and the village is save from monsters, later revealed to be called the Sōshin, and butterflies. After they arrive to the village, Sagiri joins Yuzuriha in the bath to keep watch over her but feels too relax after entering the bath. The girl brings them towels and Sagiri thanks her but notices that she doesn't speak. Finishing with their bath, Sagiri and Yuzuriha joins Gabimaru and Senta. The tree monster reveals that the Elixir of Life exist and can be found at the center of the island. However, the monster also reveals that they would have to get past Lord Tensen, immortal beings who will allow none to leave the island. Feeling threaten, Gabimaru and Yuzuriha point their weapons towards the tree monster but assures them that it was only telling them the truth. After it shows them proof that the elixir exist by demonstrating its regenerative abilities, Gabimaru points his sword to the girl and asked if she also has the same ability. Sagiri berates him for pointing his sword at her.
Later, Sagiri follows Gabimaru to the bath and discuss whether they should trust Mei and Hōko. Once they entered, they accidently walk in on Mei undressed. Sagiri is shocked once Gabimaru proceeds to undress after explaining that he used to bath with the people in his village. She notices that Gabimaru is wounded from behind and Mei has a strange marking on her back. She then prepares a proper bath for the two of them and washes Mei. After noticing Mei trying to hide her marking, Gabimaru advises her not to try to hide it and appearance doesn't matter. Sagiri becomes dumbfounded with Gabimaru showing signs of respect. After finish bathing the three walk back to the lodging. While walking, Sagiri starts to notice that Gabimaru has started to change. Once they arrived they see that Senta has exhausted himself from gathering research. Sagiri tells him that he should rest while she keeps watch but refuses.
Sagiri and her allies travel to Hōrai.
After Senta apologies to Sagiri for allowing Gabimaru to leave his sight, Sagiri accepted the matter but says that they should quickly search for him. However, Yuzuriha was not on board but quickly changed her mind once Hōko offered to guide them through the mist. Once they departed, Sagiri wonders to herself why she was feeling concern for Gabimaru's safety. While traveling to Hōrai, Hōko explains to them that Lord Tensen are a group of seven immortals and talks about the history of the villagers undergoing Aborification. Sagiri then listens as Senta gives an analytical explanation of the religious qualities of the island and his theory that the island's creator was planning something. Yuzuriha believes that they don't stand a chance and Gabimaru and Mei are dead. However, Sagiri believes this claim to be false and that Gabimaru was indeed alive because of his one goal. Later, Sagiri listens to Hōko's explanation of Lord Tensen's power known as Tao, life energy found in everything.
Sagiri's group encountering Mu Dan upon entering the Hōrai gate.
After traveling for a day, the group reaches the gate of Hōrai. Sagiri wonders about Gabimaru's whereabouts. Hōko informs her that it was possible he took a different route to get to Hōrai. Once the gates open, Sagiri becomes shocked to see Hōko's head severed from his body. The group is then met by a mysterious man, who Yuzuriha sense was dangerous and attempts to flee. However, the man instantly catches Yuzuriha from behind. Sagiri also sensed that the man was stronger than the other creatures on the island. She draws her sword demanding that he unhand her and to introduce himself. Still alive, Hōko tells them that he was one of the members of Lord Tensen, Mu Dan. Mu Dan then took the opportunity to tell Hōko that his religious beliefs were a lie, the Elixir of Life doesn't exist, and presents the Kiyōshi. After hearing that the elixir doesn't exist, Sagiri becomes worried with Gabimaru's situation of not being able to potentially receive his pardon. Yuzuriha manages escape from Mu Dan by swapping her body with a tree and attacks him. She then approaches Sagiri in gratitude and states that even though the elixir doesn't exist, their main focus should be trying to survive. Sagiri grabs Hōko's head, but before they could run away, Mu Dan regenerates from his wounds and attacks Yuzuriha by having his Kiyōshi explode. She survives the explosion, which causes Mu Dan to sense that she is able to perceive Tao. Sagiri and Senta then prepare to assist Yuzuriha after Mu Dan wishes to see how far she can go with Tao.
Not wanting to fight her, Mu Dan dashes towards Sagiri and strikes her from a distant, causing her to feel immense pain. While he fights Yuzuriha and Senta, Sagiri asks Hōko if Mu Dan has a weakness she can exploit. Hōko views him as being too powerful but Sagiri begs him help her after mentioning not being able to see Mei again. Shortly after, Sagiri attempts to attack Mu Dan from behind but dodges it. After being warned by Senta about Mu Dan being able to perceive his opponents intent, Sagiri throws her sword at his abdomen and uses the advice Hōko gave her to cut his tanden. Mu Dan survives, stating that without Tao she has no hope of defeating him. However, once she confirmed her suspicion up close, Sagiri unleashes a burst of Tao and cuts Mu Dan's face. Yuzuriha and Senta then notice that Mu Dan's wound wasn't healing.
Sagiri finishes off Mu Dan.
Sagiri explains to the two that she is able use Tao from her experience on the island and believes that she knows how to defeat Mu Dan. He then vanishes from her sight and appears in front of her ready to attack. Yuzuriha sees through his technique and restrains him with her strings of mucus, allowing Sagiri to come in and strike back. However, Mu Dan releases a blast of Tao from his mouth and kicks Sagiri away from him. She then tries attacking from behind, however, Mu Dan reads her movements to avoid every single one. With the help of Yuzuriha and Senta, Mu Dan is immobilized, after having his right leg cut, and rapidly receives damage. Before Sagiri could attempt to finish him off, Mu Dan sets himself afloat in the air to escape from their attacks. He then creates large water droplets to have them rain down on the three. Sagiri takes cover but starts to overexert herself with her breathing techniques. Yuzuriha informs Sagiri that her type of Tao might be Mu Dan's weakness since he has been trying to avoid only her attacks and that it might be possible to kill him. After stepping out in the open and taking heavy damage from his attack, Yuzuriha pulls Mu Dan down with her strings and Senta holds him from behinds to allow Sagiri to cut him down. Sagiri comes in and completely slices throw his tanden, killing Mu Dan.
Sagiri and Yuzuriha watches as Mu Dan transforms into his Kishikai form.
After successfully killing Mu Dan, Sagiri comes to Hōko's aid and is relieved that he is still alive. She then starts to recap the nature of Tao and becomes upset realizing that the Elixir of Life doesn't exist. Yuzuriha says that they would have to move on and come up with another plan of action. After hearing Senta's comment on Yuzuriha's indomitable spirit, Sagiri questions Senta whether he had any feelings for her. Senta denies this speculation and goes on explaining that he admires Yuzuriha's ability to be true to herself. After listening, Sagiri sympathizes with Senta about being inspired by a criminal and wonders if its possible for everyone that came to the island to work together. Shortly after, Sagiri panics as she sees Yuzuriha about to be attacked by a stinger produced from Mu Dan's blooming corpse. Senta moves in quickly to push Yuzuriha aside and is stabbed by the stinger. Sagiri and Yuzuriha tremble in fear as Senta's head starts blooming flowers and of Mu Dan's monstrous transformation in front of them. As they are about to be attacked by more stingers, Yamada Asaemon Shion and Nurugai arrive in time to save them. Shion then tells Sagiri that he will fight the monster.
Sagiri fending off Mu Dan's attacks.
Sagiri asks Hōko if there was anything they can do to help Senta but unfortunately tells her that there was nothing he could do. Yuzuriha then steps in to give him medicine to stop the bleeding. Sagiri then worries about Shion preparing to fight the monster but Nurugai relieves her. The three watch in shock as Shion handles himself well against the monster. Noticing that his injures aren't healing, Sagiri thinks to herself that Shion possesses the same Tao attribute as her as a way to harm it. She is then shocked as Shion sprouts flowers from his body from the scratches he received. Sagiri wishes to fight alongside Shion after seeing his loss of blood from removing the flowers and encourages Nurugai to fight as well. However, Yuzuriha decides to not join, saying that she doesn't have enough energy. This prompts Nurugai to hug her and Sagiri as a way to restore their strength. Sagiri and Nurugai then coat themselves with bandages and Yuzuriha's fluid as way of preventing themselves from being grazed by the monsters stingers. Sagiri tells Shion of their plan of being decoys while he gets behind Mu Dan and cut his tanden. The monster comes in close to attack Nurugai but Sagiri manages to intercept its attacks by sensing its Tao. Sagiri and Shion continue to fight it but starts to feel near her limit. As Shion slashes his way through, Sagiri holds down one of the monsters hands with her sword to allow Shion to make the killing blow.
After finally bring Mu Dan down, Sagiri rushes towards Senta and begs Yuzuriha to give him more medicine. However, she refuses as Senta's was close to death. She then tearfully watches as Yuzuriha comforts Senta and allows him to peacefully pass away. With his death and her gratitude towards Yuzuriha and Nurugai, Sagiri states her resolve to have everyone on the island cooperate to escape the island and return home safely.
Sagiri learns from Yuzuriha that Gabimaru's wife might not exist.
Sagiri and her allies enter Hōrai and take refuge in one of the settlements to review what they know about Tao. After bringing up the Elixir of Life and how they can't return home without it, Sagiri states that the elixir must exist because of Gabimaru's village chief benefitted from it. However, Yuzuriha talks about the possibilities of the chief using an illusion to fool others into thinking he was immortal. With this in mind, Yuzuriha discusses the theory of Gabimaru's wife not existing, which causes Sagiri to become frighten as she explains her theory.
She later sits outside and is joined by Shion. Sagiri expresses her sadness for her clansmen's deaths and wonders if Gabimaru is okay. This statement causes Shion to ask if Sagiri has developed feelings towards Gabimaru but she stops him and denies his allegation. Sagiri explains that she is able to see that Gabimaru is not truly a bad person and feels sorry for him because of his horrible past. Shion understands where she was coming from and tells her a pun which causes Sagiri to laugh.
The remaining survivors of the mission gathered together.
The next day, Sagiri suggests going outside the gate to check on the earthquake she felt earlier and reunite with Gabimaru and the others. Yuzuriha refuses seeing as how the elixir doesn't exist and they should focus on escaping. Sagiri sees through her lie knowing that she plans to use the Asaemon as safety measures when she stands before the shogun. She reassures her that she plans to have everyone including her return home safely but questions whether Gabimaru managed to reach the gates. Yuzuriha tells her that she found evidence at the front gate that indicates that Gabimaru made it to Hōrai. After coming to the gate, the group are met by Yamada Asaemon Fuchi, Tamiya Gantetsusai, Gabimaru unconscious, Mei, Tōma, and a enslaved Dōshi. Sagiri and Fuchi then asked what has happened to them since they reunited.
After reuniting with Mei, Sagiri comforts her after seeing her exhausted. She then tries to stop Gantetsusai from harming Tōma since he is traitor but justifies that he is not a threat. The group then draw their attention towards Gabimaru's critical condition. He then wakes up and looks at everyone gathered around him. Sagiri suggest that they tend to his wounds but declines and says that he is fine. After hearing Gabimaru state that he was okay if his wounds ends up killing him, Sagiri questions who he was. Gabimaru answers with his epithet and makes Sagiri realize that Gabimaru is not his previous self. Gabimaru attacks Sagiri but is protected by Shion and Fuchi. Sagiri explains that Gabimaru's Tao has been disruptive and his memory has been affected. She then tries to help him understand that she is his ally and attempts at using a Tao restoration but is pushed away repeatedly. Sagiri uses force to pin Gabimaru down and explains to him that they need his help in order to return home as well as having him reunite with his wife. She then begins to restore his Tao and causes his memories to return.
The group relocates to a cave to escape from Lord Tensen's sensory field. Sagiri is relieved that Gabimaru has regained his memories and remembers his goal of wanting to receive the pardon in order to reunite with his wife. She then tries to stop Yuzuriha from explaining the possibility that his wife might be an illusion. After she was finish explaining, Gabimaru tells them that he was confident that she was real based on his time with her and that the only way he could be sure is to see her once again. She then becomes delighted by his resolve.
While the men and Nurugai help Gabimaru with his training outside, Sagiri and Yuzuriha look after Mei who is feeling ill. Fuchi steps in and agrees to make medicine for Mei but demands that she tells him everything they need to know about herself and Lord Tensen. He then asks Sagiri to make the medicine while he translates Mei's words. From what he interpret from Mei's words, Fuchi tells them that the monsters, the island, and Lord Tensen were created from a Hōshi in order to research the secrets of immortality. He then goes on to tell them about Lord Tensen practicing the inner and outer way of Tan to achieve immortality, which is meditation and creating an elixir. This causes Sagiri and Yuzuriha to realize that the Elixir of Life truly exists. Fuchi explains that although the elixir gives them extra life they can be killed if their Tao is depleted. After, Yuzuriha asks why the Tensens are going further with their research, Mei answers that the possibility lies with the will of their creator Xu Fu. Hearing Fuchi's story of Xu Fu's journey, Sagiri becomes frighten of the thought that Xu Fu might still be alive after 1,000 years.
After learning more about Xu Fu, Sagiri sees Mei fall back exhausted and her arm turned into a branch. Mei explains that her body has been damaged by Rien and needs assistance in healing, which Hōko offers by having her absorb his Tao. After Mei absorbs Hōko and reverts back to her child body fully healed, the four gather back with the others and are about to hear their next plan of action. However, Mei warns the others that she senses another party with strong Tao.
The remaining survivors of the vanguard party join forces to complete the mission and escape the island.
Shion and Fuchi believes that it is Shugen and the other Asaemon who were sent as reinforcements by Eizen, along with another group of criminals. After being asked by Gabimaru whether Shugen was an ally, Sagiri answers yes and vouches for Shugen's strength but is warned by Yuzuriha that Shugen has an infamous reputation. Sagiri explains Shugen's story about him executing the entire Silver Serpent yakuza group but assures them that he is a good person deep down. Fuchi then adds that Shugen was Sagiri's first crush, which blushingly shocks her explains that she merely admires him since he is the reason why she managed to earn a ranking in the clan and believes that he will come to their aid. However, Shion denies this fact and explains the full story of how Shugen not only executed the Silver Serpent group but also their families, causing the group to become shock and horrified. He then goes on to explain how he does not work with criminals and that he will not allow Asaemon to work with them as well. Moving on, the group hears Shion's plan of divide everyone into two teams, one finding Tan and the other finding an escape route. They also listen to his strategy of using their Tao attributes to hinder each member of Lord Tensen and defeat them. However, after Yuzuriha suggests finding a way off the island and go into hiding, Shion gives everyone the option of either working alone or moving forward with Shion's plan. Ultimately, everyone unanimously follows Shion into the cave and decide to work together in completing the mission.
Hōrai Arc
- Main article: Hōrai Arc
Mei provides the group with information regarding the ships located deep within the palace as a way to escape the island and reveals that the elixir is located in Rien's laboratory. Sagiri and the others then sit in on Gabimaru and Yuzuriha's lessons on espionage using Tao. After the lessons were over, Sagiri talks to Gabimaru about how she found it odd that everyone is now cooperating to accomplish the same goal and hopes that the group manages to survive. She is then placed in the Elixir Retrieval Team along with Gabimaru and Yuzuriha. Gantetsusai suggests that they should have Mei depart alone without having to wait for the elixir team since she wishes to leave the island. Sagiri listens to Gabimaru as he asks Mei if there was something she had to do before leaving the island. Mei confesses that she wishes to see her creator, Xu Fu, and Rien to ask why they underwent a major change in the past and then leave the island to start a new life. Sagiri then watches as Gabimaru promises Mei to have her see the two again.
The group plans out their infiltration strategy. Gabimaru explains that he and Yuzuriha will sense the Tao layout of the palace building and attack the guards while switching in and out of their Tao suppression. Knowing that part of the plan is to avoid confronting Lord Tensen, Sagiri wonders about the possibility of that situation ever occurring. Gabimaru explains that if their plan were fail then they would have to move on to their second plan of fighting back against them. Going with the strategy they planned out, the group decides to infiltrate the palace tonight.
The Elixir Retrieval Team encounters Ran.
The Elixir Retrieval Team infiltrates the palace and warns the Escape Route Securing Team that the area is clear. Sagiri asks Gabimaru if the time has finally come to put an end to the mission, which he replies yes. The team senses the layout of the castle. Sagiri and Mei become disturbed by the corpses they sensed in Rien's laboratory and is surprised that Gabimaru and Yuzuriha managed to remain calm. After taking down the Dōshi guards and successfully entering the palace, the team suddenly runs into Ran, who has suppressed his Tao waiting for their arrival after being informed by Chōbē. Ran tries to plead with Mei to return back to their side, revealing that they have finally completed the Elixir of Life. However, Mei refuses and explains that she came to say goodbye. Though he is disappointed, Ran says that the Rite of Just Consumption will have to continue, which is to capture all of the humans and serve them as sacrifices for the grandmaster.
Knowing that their plan to avoid Lord Tensen has failed, the group moves on to their second plan of fighting against them. Gabimaru tells Sagiri and Mei to search for the elixir while he and Yuzuriha fight Ran. However, Mei warns them that they are not in the Rentan Temple. Ran reveals to them that he has changed the layout of the palace by controlling its Tao and traps Mei's foot. While the two shinobi fight Ran, Sagiri frees Mei from her bindings and tells Gabimaru that they will proceed to the Rentan Temple.
While running to the Rentan Temple, Sagiri and Mei hear loud noises coming from the Dō'in Temple. Sagiri assures Mei that Gabimaru is okay since he has a backup plan. However, Sagiri learns about Gabimaru's risky plan from Mei and starts to worry. Despite this, Sagiri believes that they have to continue on and arrives at the Rentan Temple.
Sagiri requesting to Gui Fa in ending the conflict.
Sagiri and Mei enter the temple but sees that Gui Fa is in the room instead of Rien. The Tensen then says that they are willing to spare them if they were to not move from their spot but will do the opposite if they were to take a step forward. Sagiri asks as to what the Tensen has around them. Gui Fa explains that the items allows them to tell the current status of the ones fighting against Lord Tensen. Sagiri then reaches for her sword after thinking that she can stop Lord Tensen from tracking their movements but is crushed under the weight of Gui Fa's Tao and ask that she removes her hand. Sagiri puts down her sword and explains that she does not wish to fight but rather to apologize to Gui Fa on behave of the humans that have trespassed on their island. She then asks if they would allow her group to return home safely and end the conflict. Gui Fa allows Sagiri to move and says that they will honor her request, however, Gui Fa warns them that it would be pointless to return to Japan by explaining through an illusion created with Tao. They explains Rien's plan to depart to Japan and release the Paradise Butterflies to turn every human into Waitanhua flowers and form the giant Banko to create more perfected Tan. After the illusion had ended, Sagiri becomes horrified and asks why Lord Tensen was going so far. Gui Fa answers that Lord Tensen only sees the human race as subjects to create more of their elixir and that it was pointless for her to try to reason with them.
Later, the ritual circle reveals that the Tensens have all been defeated, leading Gui Fa to report back to Rien. Sagiri asks if they harbor any motivates to avenge their comrades, to which they explain that they do not. The three then feel the palace starting shake after the unexpected arrival of the second party. Sagiri and Mei find themselves confronted by a group of Dōshi and Iwagakure shinobi. Sagiri fights them off but tries focus on not trying to kill the ninja who were reinforced by the shogun. Two Dōshi charge at Sagiri and Mei but are saved by the arrival of Yuzuriha, much to their happiness. Sagiri thinks that they can cooperate with the shinobi since they were sent by the shogun but is told by Yuzuriha that it would not work since they are out to kill the criminals and they are to focus on having everyone escape the island with the elixir. With this in mind, Sagiri asks Mei if she was willing to confront Rien. Yamada Asaemon Isuzu then appears and is glad to see that Sagiri is okay but is shocked to see her with Yuzuriha. Sagiri tries to explain to Isuzu that the Asaemon had no other choice but to work with the criminals since it would be their best chance at survival. However, Isuzu tells Sagiri that Yuzuriha is their enemy after reading the many crimes she has committed and asks that she join her side.
Abilities and Powers
Sagiri is a highly skilled swordswoman who managed to gain the title of an Asaemon in the Yamada Clan and earn the rank of twelfth for becoming the next suitable head of the clan. She is capable of holding her own against strong and dangerous opponents, such as Gabimaru and Rokurōta. After her arrival on Kotaku, Sagiri became one of the first few in 1,000 years to have managed to survive the ordeals the island had to offer and reach Hōrai where Lord Tensen currently resides.[11] She managed to defeat Mu Dan, one of Lord Tensen who are very powerful beings that are capable of wielding Tao similar to a god, and was skilled enough to fight him in his Kishikai form.
Physical Abilities
Sagiri has shown to possess impressive speed and reflexes. She was fast enough to leave a cut on Gabimaru's neck, after getting behind him for a split second, and was able to single handedly take one of Genji's swords before he even had time to notice. She reacted quickly to Gabimaru's surprise attack, and was even able to block every one of Rokurōta's hard fast punches.
She also has great endurance. After exhausting herself from using too much Tao during her fight with Mu Dan, Sagiri was able to fight again after having some of her strength restored by Nurugai.
Swordsmanship
- Further information: Tameshi Ittō-ryū
Like every Asaemon, Sagiri is capable of decapitating her victims with a single cut. According to Senta and Genji, Sagiri was given a lower ranking because she was born female, however, in terms of ability, Sagiri's swordplay is considered to be unmatched.[12] A testament to her skills was that she was able to fight on equal terms with Gabimaru, a powerful ninja known for slaughtering numerous people. Despite his resistance to all forms of executions that were given to him, Gabimaru knew that if he were to be executed by Sagiri she would be successful in killing him.[13] This was proven true after she left a cut on his neck, a feat that a normal executioner couldn't accomplish due to his harden body.
Another skill she acquired as an Asaemon is the ability to analyze an individuals anatomy. Sagiri was able to determine that the Sōshin on the island had muscles and bones but showed no signs of internal organs or genitalia by simply cutting them down with her sword.[14]
Techniques
- Tameshi Ittō-ryū: Armor Splitter (試一刀流 具足割 Tameshi Ittō-ryū: Gusoku Wari?, Literally meaning: One Sword Style Test Cutting: Armor Split): Sagiri swings her sword towards her opponent. This is called Ittō-ryū: Armor-Splitter in the Viz Manga.
Tao
- Further information: Tao
Sagiri unleashing a large burst of Tao.
Sagiri possesses Wood-attributed Tao. Through her breathing, Sagiri is able to release a large aura of Tao and use it in conjunction with her swordplay to increase her attacks. After becoming accustomed to it, Sagiri is able to perceive her opponents next attacks, which Shion, a user who awakened this power long before her, noted was capable of sensing it faster than him. After receiving lessons from Yuzuriha, Sagiri is able to suppress her Tao to hide her presence.
Weapons
Sagiri wielding her sword.
Sagiri had her own katana prior to it being cut in half by Gabimaru after their confrontation on the island. She then procured a sword previously owned by Warped Keiun that was later used by Gabimaru. She then replaced it with one of Genji's swords that was given to her as his dying wish.
Quotes
- (To Gabimaru) "Through my work, I have witnessed the final moments of all manner of people. When they are on the brink of death, I perceive what lies in their hearts. The blade reflects one's true nature. Some may bluff and keep a brave face to the bitter end...some turn desperate and cling to life...while others deceive themselves into accepting death."[15]
- (To Gabimaru) "Our inherent relationship has not changed, and yet...you are no longer the man you once were."[16]
- (To a dying Rokurōta) "I've put you through so much and frightened you, I'm sure because I've much yet to learn. I'm sorry. It's okay, though nobody resents you anymore...No. Not as you are now...Now, departed soul may you rest in peace forevermore."[17]
- (To Yuzuriha, Shion, and Nurugai) "I will not suffer the death of another ally. We will all survive and escape this island. I swear it."[18]
Trivia
- Sagiri ranked 2nd place in the manga's 1st Character Popularity Poll with 2399 votes.
References
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 2, page 31-33
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 12
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 3, page 6-7
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 18, page 7
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 21, page 16
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 26, page 11
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 1, page 7-8
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 1, page 13
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 22, page 4
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 1, page 34
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 37, page 3
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 14, Page 17-18
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 1 , Page 30-31
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 8, page 11
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 1, page 34-35
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 5, page 20-21
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 15, page 15-16
- ↑ Jigokuraku Chapter 1, page 34-35