A boy is attacked by a wild bear, introducing a plague that affects only males.

While visiting Edo, a beautiful temple chief named Arikoto catches the eye of Lady Kasuga, who tries to force him into giving up the priesthood.

Together with Gyokuei, Arikoto begins his new life. He learns about a carefully protected secret, and the role he is now expected to play.

Arikoto's wounds finally heal, and he's introduced to the other men in the Ooku, but they don't take kindly to him.

Iemitsu orders the men to dress in women's clothing and amuse her. She remembers how, when she was a child, Lady Kasuga had taken her from her family.

Though blissfully in love, Iemitsu is still not pregnant. Lady Kasuga finds a promiscuous man in town who bears an uncanny resemblance to Arikoto.

With surprising good will, Arikoto welcomes Sutezo into the Ooku. Just when things seem to be going well, an accident happens.

Iemitsu sees for herself how desperate things have become outside the castle walls. She orders immediate action to prevent a peasant uprising.

Lady Kasuga falls ill, causing worry over what will happen in the event of her passing. The plague finds its way into the Ooku.