The Phoenix: Chapter of Yamato

Synopsis

Continues the story of Phoenix: Karma Chapter

In Nara period Japan, the celebrated sculptor Akanemaru sets out on a journey to locate the legendary immortal bird known as the Phoenix, believing it will provide the inspiration for his finest creation. Along the way, he encounters Gaou, a bitter bandit missing one eye and one arm, who attacks Akanemaru without reason and steals his belongings. After they separate, both individuals continue with their lives, oblivious to how their initial meeting will shape their futures. Akanemaru eventually gives up his search for the Phoenix due to fresh obligations, whereas Gaou experiences a dramatic downturn in fortune. These developments pave the way for their reunion, this time as enemies. Hi no Tori: Houou-hen explores the complex web of causation and consequence, tracing the lives of Akanemaru and Gaou as they contend with the fallout from their past deeds.

In this installment

In "The Phoenix: Chapter of Yamato," Oguna, the youngest prince of Yamato, is commanded by his father to kill Takeru Kawakami, the leader of Kumaso. While crossing into Kumaso territory, he is struck by a stray arrow shot by Kajika, a local girl gathering food. Filled with guilt, Kajika helps Oguna reach her village for medical treatment. They quickly develop deep feelings for each other, but Oguna uncovers the devastating truth that Kajika is Takeru's younger sister. Torn between his emotions and his duty, Oguna seeks guidance from the Phoenix, a mythical immortal bird that watches over Kumaso. He must choose between abandoning his mission and family for the woman he loves or carrying out his father's order and killing Kajika's brother. "Hi no Tori: Yamato-hen" recounts the sorrowful story of a couple bound by fate, illustrating how true love can overcome hatred and hardship despite the uncertainties that lie ahead.

Background

Hi no Tori: Yamato-hen, the second of the three 1980s anime adaptations of Osamu Tezuka's Hi no Tori, refers to the manga's third chapter, "Yamato-hen." The story is inspired by the 14th century Japanese legend of Yamato Takeru, prince of the Yamato dynasty. While unfamiliar in the west, this legend has been described by anthropologist C. Scott Littleton as "Arthurian" due to some structural similarities with King Arthur's legend. Furthermore, despite the geographical distance, it appears that both Yamato Takeru and King Arthur originate from analogous time periods.