The Library Freedom Act
1. The library is free to collect materials
2. The library is free to circulate materials
3. The library guarantees the privacy of its patrons
4. The library can oppose improper censorship
When an incursion into a library occurs,
we are charged with its protection until the bitter end.
We protect the books and freedom of the people.
For nations that destroy their books, will eventually destroy their people.
Excuse me, I'd like to check these out.
Yes, ma'am.
Regarding the Media Improvement Act,
which aims to restrict pornographic, violent and discrimatory depictions,
the Tokyo Assembly convened the General Committee
and heard various positions supporting and opposing the Act.
Regarding this Act,
and it's impact on society,
simply put, it is an infringement on our free speech.
The use of foul language,
has huge negative impacts,
that reach all the way to our youth.
There is a danger in this Act leading to an oppression of thought,
so we should not enact this into law.
I think that this is what has been demanded,
for the government to go in this direction.
If I was to be more specific,
I am talking about censorship.
This sort of thing, well,
according to the Media Improvement Act,
However, I think
we need the freedom to read.
Well, I think the government needs to take it under consideration
Citizens, do not be alarmed. To allow us to determine
what print media is allowable,
the viewing of books and media deemed harmful...
The classification of media is an immediate priority
and I think it is necessary
to once again consider the Media Improvement Act.
The new era
will be known as "Seika"
1989: First Year of Seika Era Media Improvement Act goes into effect
I am currently at a bookstore
that has censored the books according to the Media Improvement Act.
Please take a look at this shelf.
This entire section has been censored.
Please look at this.
Books that have been censored under the designation of harmful media
are being incinerated here.
We are from the MBC. (Media Betterment Committee)
From here on, this bookstore is under censorship.
- Drop it! - No!
The free flow of commerce in itself
doesn't exist anymore.
It's really causing serious damage.
According to the MBC, they are stepping up the intensity
Up til now, more than 65,200 titles,
both online and in print, are designated as harmful media...
Using taxes, the ruling party is forcing the law through...
That's not the point,
the measure was adopted based on a majority being in favor.
After implementation, militarization continued through the arming of the MBC
What are you hiding?
This is a censored book.
As for the rollout of ebooks, they are being halted one after another.
Escalating prices and purchases...
It's just pictures!
What are you doing?!?
Let go!
You want to go to the police for shoplifting?
Go ahead, call the police!
I'll go to the police, but this book is coming with me!
Shut up! Let go!
2004: Year 16 of Seika Era The LDF is formed to oppose censorship
Kanto LDF! (Library Defense Force)
We declared libraries as the place to gather materials
to allow freedom of access to books.
Please explain why you want to join.
I want to protect the books.
Just like that man...
The Library Freedom Act
Good morning
Good morning, ma'am
Starring Okada Junichi
Eikura Nana
Tanaka Kei and Fukushi Sota
- Morning - Morning
- This please - Got it
- Morning - Morning
Based on the series by Arikawa Hiro
Produced by Tsujimoto Tamako
Unit, attention!
Attention
Present Arms
Present Arms!
Directed by Sato Shinsuke
2019: Year 31 of Seika Era
Musashino Library #1, Tokyo (Kanto Library Base)
Please return them by May 30th
- Thank you - Of course
Next, please
- I'd like these - Certainly
Tezuka, Kasahara... last lap!
Who said you could lay down?
Give me 100 push-ups!
Tezuka...
Got it
Do push-ups!
1, 2
1...
2...
3...
4...
Kasahara, what are you doing?
You must really like push-ups
7...
8...
That stupid instructor!
Of course you fall down at the end,
but that's not the plan!
To me, he's not so bad,
and he gets extra points for being Task Force.
Absolutely, positively not!
A bad personality and not a bit pleasant.
Kasahara...
Not only that, but he's a shrimp, I wouldn't even dream of it!
I tried to stop you...
What?
If you are going to bash your superior, you may want to pick a better place.
Kasahara, your voice is a bit loud.
Um, well, just now...
I'm not with her,
I'm a huge fan of yours!
Backstabber...
"The Library Freedom Act"
Enacted based on Section 4 of the Library Law,
Libraries were the sole institutions
with the legal basis to oppose censorship.
But after this, the Hino Library incident,
aka the "Hino Nightmare", occurred.
20 years ago, a group supporting the Media Improvement Act,
attacked a library without warning.
12 employees, including Director Inamine, were killed.
The real culprits were never found
and we're still not sure who they are to this day.
In addition, this incident was the key to the formation of the LDF.
The militarization has continued and brought us to the current times.
He scared me...
At the same time,
the MBC, armed with machine guns, has
intensified their censorship over the past 30 years.
Occasionally, it led to big skirmishes.
What is the basis of the LDF's methods?
Anyone?
- Sir - Tezuka
It is nonaggressive defense.
Focusing on a warning shot to avoid any unnecessary bloodshed.
Exactly.
The use of weapons by the LDF
is limited to within the grounds of a Library.
We don't fight just to fight,
we fight in order to defend.
Remember this.
Regarding the personnel,
the team composition is absolutely right.
Your definition of "right" is a bit boring.
It shouldn't be exciting, right?
- Point! - Commander…
Next!
Point!
Next!
Point!
Who's next?!?
Not me, not me!
We have a field trip today.
I guess there's no choice...
I will be your opponent.
You don't have the skill. What about me?
It's me!
You both want to be thrown around?
Hey! What are you doing?
Kasahara, you'll spar with me.
What?
You can pin her?
You guys are too nice.
I'll show you how to handle a woman.
What?
Begin!
Are you sure you're ok?
After all, you're much shorter...
Can you even reach my collar?
Point!
You may be taller than me,
but you're not very bright.
During training, you must worship the mat.
Dojo!
Impressive...
What was that about worshipping the mat?
No rules, huh?
My arm!
Nomura! Count to 30.
Yes, sir!
1, 2, 3, 4...
- Owww! - 5...
I heard you dropkicked Dojo?
In the history of the LDF, there's never been a recruit like you.
You picked a fight with Dojo...
He started it!
He hates me!
In Tokyo's Suginami District, a 17 year old youth
was arrested as the suspect in the serial murders
of a number of young women.
In a search of the young man's residence,
a blunt object thought to be the murder weapon
and a number of offensive horror novels were found.
The majority of them are categorized as
harmful materials according to the Media Act.
Of course, they are going to blame it on the books.
”It's the books' fault” ”Movies lead to crime”
That way, you'll never feel at ease...
Are you listening?
Huh? What?
Everyday you just sit and stare, that's why you're still a virgin.
That's the reason?
You need to remember your prince's face clearly.
I just remember the feel of his hand.
His hand on my head was so gentle.
If that's all you've got, you'll never find him.
Just at the Kanto Library Base, there are almost 3000 people.
It's okay even if I don't find him.
What?
Wasn't that the whole reason you joined the LDF?
If I work hard everyday,
someday, by fate,
the time will come that I meet him.
You believe in fate...
Yeah
Sometimes, you're...
you're so cute I could eat you up!
Here I go, I'm digging in!
Hey, wait a second!
Ah, it looks so good
I'm eating the strawberry!
As of June 25th in the Year 31 of the Seika Era (2019)
Library Clerks 1st Class Iku Kasahara and Hikaru Tezuka
are now members of the LDF
and are ordered to duty in the Library Task Force.
I am your commander, Captain Genda.
Welcome to the unit.
You two and Komaki will be assigned to a newly formed squad under Dojo.
What?
This unit is the dream of all 30,000 members of this nation's LDF
and you are the first woman ever!
Something wrong?!?
No, this is a great honor!
In other words, the problem is me?
I feel the same way about you.
Get used to it.
Listen carefully,
don't get full of yourselves...
The training for the Task Force
involves all sorts of activities while carrying an 8 pound rifle,
all of the ammunition, a flak vest,
all together about 22 pounds worth of gear.
Kasahara, you're too slow!
Speed it up!
What are you doing, Kasahara?
Go, Tezuka!
Kasahara!
Hurry up!
- 6! - 6!
- 7! - 7!
- 8! - 8!
- 9! - 9!
- 10! - 10!
- 11! - 11!
- 12! - 12!
12!
- 12! - All together!
- 13! - 13!
Managing the library
is also an important duty of the Task Force.
Many of the censored publications
are stored in the underground archives.
When a request is made from upstairs,
it must be located from among the collection of 9 million volumes.
A detailed knowledge of the operations floor is necessary.
Mountain training involves
a 25 mile ruck march with 65 pounds of equipment,
and setting up a one-man tent in the field.
Halt! Squad leaders...
- Sorry - Sorry
Kasahara on rappel!
Get in position!
In position!
- Clear below! - Clear below!
- On rappel! - On rappel!
Wow, she's good!
Kasahara complete!
Good job
She's doing well.
She's a monkey.
- You've never done this? - Is it really the first time?
- Safety good! - Rifle clear!
One hit for 3 points, nothing else.
What?!?
All of them center mass, good job!
What, all of them?
Good job!
It doesn't really matter.
Combined with your score,
no matter what, we lose to the other squads.
You're useless...
Excuse me,
I'd like to speak to someone in charge.
I'm sorry, and you are?
The President of the PTA.
Just a moment, please.
The PTA? What is it this time?
”The distribution of all horror novels is prohibited”
All of them...
That's a little overboard, isn't it?
That serial killer,
he's become propaganda for the MBC.
Because of this problem, the next event in the library
will be "The History of Censorship”
That's still secret.
How exciting!
Anyway, if you really think about it,
censorship is asinine.
Ah, there are plans for an exhibition of the Prince book series.
That's right, I can't wait!
Are you going?
Certainly!
Are you getting the hang of the archives?
I'm doing my best.
You're not really suited for it, huh?
If you're not part of the Task Force, that'll be the end...
My condolences
I know! That Tezuka...
He said he couldn't stand me
But, since it's true I can't do anything right...
I didn't have a comeback
Actually, I heard that Tezuka
is the son of the Library Association Chairman
No way!
By the way,
how do you always know this stuff?
It's just my hobby
Tezuka is from the upper class,
so someone like you in the same Task Force
would be more than he could handle, for sure.
Anyway, you'll just have to make the best of it
That's the way to have a happy work environment in Dojo's squad
- Be on guard! - Ouch…
Thanks to all the push-ups, I am sleep deprived
If you are awake enough to be sarcastic, you can do squats too
What?
Hey, stop that!
I caught him in the act
Look out!
If he's still free, you haven't caught him
When are you going to quit treating this like a game?!
I'm so sorry
I really didn't…
I didn't understand why you were so
angry with me every day.
Training is not a game
Reaching the goal is not the end.
I was not fully invested
It was the same just now
If he had defeated me, it would have meant my end
In actual combat…
I am useless
That's enough
It's my fault, I'm sorry
You're not cut out for this job
Pack up your things and go home to Ibaraki
I'm not quitting!
I...
I want to be just like that LDF member
that saved me when I was in high school
So there's no way I'm quitting
There's no place for someone like him in the LDF
He's not someone to look up to
I was against your recruitment
and all the rest of them, too
Genda
Hey
You came?
It's been awhile I'm "New Society" magazine's
Ms. Orikuchi, right? You covered a story for us once
That's right
I always read your pieces
New Society has given life to the lost art of journalism
Thanks to you, we eke out a living
He hasn't regained consciousness
He hoped to hold out as long as possible
in order to protect the Odawara Library of History
That's where Mr. Nobeyama continued to protect the evidence
of injustices from when the Media Act was enacted
If he dies…
Odawara will become a battlefield.
Kasahara! What are you doing?!
Hold this
The peg needs to be…
I can't hear!
The peg needs to be…
What?
The rope should…
The peg needs to be at a 90 degree angle to the rope!
Or it won't hold up under strong winds!
Sorry
Try to remember the things I taught you!
Your character shows in your shooting, too
Shooting?
You look at the target closely until the end
Look at me for instance
Umm…
- Oh no! - What?
It's wet…
It got wet
What? What is it?
It's my good luck charm
Wipe yourself off first!
What's the story?
What?
That book
Oh
It's a fairy tale
A story about a journey with friends
This one is the last in a series
I waited forever for it
But when it was finally released, it was on the censored list
The hero cuts off the dragon's head with his sword
They said it was too cruel
But, my biggest complaint is that as kids finish elementary school,
if they can't keep up, it is viewed as their own problem
The motto of education these days is to just go with the flow
I don't like that everyone is taught to think
I know, right?!
Usually, the characters don't take a stand
and aren't the least bit interesting
If you are a hero of the people, you end up fighting,
if it's a stubborn old man, you don't continue with the story,
You're smiling…
Huh?
Amazing! It's the first time I've seen it
Hey, don't stop!
It feels good to smile
Five years ago, this was the book that he saved for me
That LDF member...
he seemed like an ally of justice
He took it back from the MBF as a "sanctioned book"
and said "Thanks to you, this book wasn't destroyed"
I was proud of saving this book
The right of sanctioning,
Is not the sort of decision that one soldier can make by themselves
He acted foolishly
So you're saying if it was you, you wouldn't have helped?
Of course
Why?
Because it's the rule!
Listen
We are not "allies of justice"
That's what you believe?
Yeah
If that's true, I can't follow you
If, five years ago,
the person in that bookstore was you
I would have never dreamed of being in the LDF
What do you think of the Task Force training?
Newbie!
It's a lot of studying
Right
- Excuse me - Yes?
Isn't Library Defense just basic urban warfare?
Yeah
So why do we do field training?
Maybe, cause I feel like it?
Huh?
To put it another way,
You need to prepare for all possibilities
Any other ways to say it?
Censorship
Huh? Where?
Bunch of show offs
Are they targeting that shop?
No, it was probably a tip-off from some citizen
Aren't we going to stop them?
What are you talking about?
Can't we use the right of sanction?
That's just a method of procuring materials
It would just cause a fight
We aren't here to interfere with censorship activities
- But… - Enough!
The LDF exists to protect the Libraries
If we abuse this power, the rules could all disintegrate
Understand?
Yes, sir!
Kasahara!
- Hey, Kasahara! - Get back here!
Hey! Hey!
Stop! Stop the vehicle!!
Stop the convoy! Stop the convoy!
Kanto LDF!
Under Library Freedom Act Article 30, I hereby appropriate these materials
These books
are declared as sanctioned materials!
Soldier
Please give me all the books you have collected
You are exceeding your right to sanction materials
You are interfering with the carrying out of our official censorship duties
- Take her away - What?
- Hey! - Let's go!
- Let me go! - Come quietly!
Let me go!
I'm a bit late, but
I am a Lieutenant in the Kanto LDF
and those books
are declared as sanctioned materials!
You stupid fool!
Sanctioning books is not something an idiot like you can do when you want!
You're taking an unnecessary risk
Back then, he did the same thing
You're an idiot for imitating an idiot!
He was not an idiot!
Just a reckless fool!
He was true LDF!
Shut up!
Don't make my prince out to be an idiot!
Prince?
Ahh! I'm wasting my time
For a second, I thought that you
were acting just like my Prince did
Boy was I wrong!
If you'll excuse me
Ah, I thought we were going to die
Kasahara was really worked up
Just as reckless as you
I'm different now
Anyway, you're the "Prince" from long ago
How does it feel to compete with your old self?
I'm going to punch you if you keep talking
= SANCTIONED =
Ta-da!
- Here you go - Thanks!
- Show me - Ok
We're from the MBF
We are here at this store to enforce censorship laws
- Let go - No!
Are you hiding something?
This is a banned title
You want to go to the police for shoplifting?
Go ahead, call the police!
I'll go to the police, but this book is coming with me!
Shut up! Let go!
Kanto LDF!
Based on the freedom to collect materials,
I declare these books to be sanctioned!
My careless actions became an issue
and they were cited in the MBF's report
Thanks to you,
this book wasn't destroyed
Back then,
I was wrong
Please explain why you want to join
I want to protect the books
Just like that man...
That man?
Yes, well…
It was when I was in high school
The MBF was conducting a raid of a bookstore in Ibaraki, my hometown
There was this book that I just had to read,
but it was on the banned list, so they took it from me
That's when an LDF member saved me
The book that was taken...
he got it back through the right of "sanction"
and I thought, "here's a true ally of justice"
It was so cool and just fantastic
and he gave off such a gallant vibe
what I'm trying to say…
here was someone I could depend on
therefore, um…
I, too, want to be someone like that
I think I'd like to be
that type of person, one that protects books
against these absurd censorship policies
that's why I thought that if I could join the LDF
I want to be part of the defense unit, not the support staff
Yes!
She joined the LDF to chase after her prince
That's why I wanted her to quit
Take care of it, okay?
Yup
Huh?
Ah-ha!
No, no, no…
You can't even find one book?!
Do you need help with everything?
Sorry
I'll look one more time
She's useless
We'd be better off without her
Tezuka
You are a superior human being,
but if we got rid of everyone that wasn't at your level
what would that leave us with?
To use your words,
if you can see someone's superiority, you should strive for it
People like Kasahara can only be thought of as lazy
I get you,
but, in Kasahara's case, what is it you're hoping for?
Do you want her to quit, or
do you like it when she recognizes your superiority
Your argument may be correct, but…
it's not right to use an argument as a weapon
So which one is it for you?
Alert: surveillance system has been activated
The MBF is massing in this building's vicinity
Occupy guard positions, I repeat…
The MBF has 7 vehicles and 50 personnel
massing at the main gate
We think the MBF's target are books in the basement of the main building
I repeat
We think the MBF's target are books in the basement of the main building
Alert level raised to 6
Everyone remain calm!
Don't panic!
The safe room is this way!
- The safe room… - Why can't I just leave?
Quit messing around, Just forget about it!
Close the safe room!
This is an official notification from the MBF to Musashino Library #1
We are here to conduct censorship activities under the authority of the Media Act, para. 3
We have reason to believe that you have materials viewed
by the suspect in the Suginami District serial killings
Turn over the offending materials immediately
The LDF acknowledges receipt
In accordance with para. 33 of the Library Act,
we invoke our right of veto
Very well, between the hours of 1900 and 2000
in accordance with para. 8 of the Media Act
we will collect them by force
The Minister of Justice has authorized us the use of weapons
Acknowledged
Set up barricades at the main and rear gates
Prevent the MBF from entering
You two, join up with the rear gate forces
This is your first combat
Stay calm
- Yes, sir - Yes, sir
The MBF will attempt to penetrate the main gate
Prevent their entry
I repeat
The MBF will attempt to penetrate the main gate
Prevent their entry
Here they come!
We're under attack Open fire!
Stop the MBF from getting in!
The censorship raid this time is pretty big, huh?
- Run! - The main gate is under attack!
Support personnel to the safe room!
Shibasaka, what are you doing? Hurry up!
Hey! Shibasaka!
= CENSORSHIP TIMELINE =
This is an emergency broadcast from the support staff!
Their objective is Conference Room 4 in the West Building
I repeat
Their objective is Conference Room 4 in the West Building
Hey, where are you going?
Conference Room 4
Are you disobeying orders?
That was Shibasaki's voice
So what?! There's no books in the conference room
She's risking her life to tell us that
so it must be right!
Kasahara!
You don't have to come
Didn't they say no solo missions?
Those guys...
they're playing for keeps
Ain't that the truth!
Let's go!
That's a woman, isn't it?
Where?
The enemy has broken through! The enemy has broken through!
Stop them at the gate!
Warning shots! Aim for their feet!
This is Tezuka, in pursuit of two enemy
They may escape towards the rear garden...Over
This is Dojo…
Standby until we get there...Over
I'm going, cover me!
I should go
I trust your shooting more!
I did it…
This is Kasahara, I've got the books
Kasahara, they're still out there...be careful
Roger
Get down!
You gotta keep moving, you dumbass!
Dumbass?
Do me a favor!
Think before you rush into this kind of thing!
Three minutes until cease-fire
In the morning, it'll look the same as before
Any casualties?
Two seriously injured
LDF casualties are usually not reported
Even if they die, the police or courts don't get involved
...and no criminal charges are sought
We are handicapped in combat
We have to maintain the facade
that we don't shoot to kill
Even then, the LDF is resigned to never shoot first
and devote itself only to defense
Why?
"We fight in order to defend"
That is the belief of the LDF that Commander Nishina created
The MBF prisoners have been returned
Well done
Heading to the conference room was very adaptive of you
What?
What's the problem this time?
I have a suggestion
You…
...want to go out with me?
What?
What!?
Yesterday evening at Musashino Library #1
there was a large-scale clash with the MBF
At an emergency meeting this morning, Chief Cabinet Secretary Kawano stated
”Commander Iwao Nishina of the LDF”
"recklessly exercised his right to veto censorship"
A number of people are criticizing the LDF response...
The banned materials that the suspect
had in his possession were linked to Musashino Library #1...
The police this time?
It looks as though you're painting the LDF as the bad guys
We're just gathering information
You know we won't cooperate and yet you still came
The serial killer was a regular patron of this library,
so we may find some clue from the books he read
We would like to see the record of the books he borrowed
Para. 32 of the Library Act "guarantees the privacy of its patrons"
On this basis, we decline
Reading forms just a portion of one's ideology
And that individual's ideology should not be treated as evidence of crime
Is that all? You can see yourself out
I understand that yesterday's incident involving the possession of banned books
and the leak of this info to the MBF
was an inside job
Seems like that's an issue for the LDF, too
Are you having doubts about your people?
"There is no sense fighting the system"
"they're just books”
Anything else is pointless, right?
Is that okay?
Shouldn't all of the agencies help each other?
The police saying "just give up and break the law"
That's pretty strange, isn't it?
No...
If you say it's reasonable, is it really?
Back then…
The police didn't come
He was intimidating, wasn't he?
He's a survivor of the "Hino Nightmare"
His right leg was blown off and now he's got a fake one
Huh?
20 years of persistence...
The bigwigs have had their hands full
Director Inamine…
We…
have gathered here to bring down the hammer of justice on
libraries that upset public order by keeping books that destroy our society
Herein exists sin
Director Inamine!
= HISTORY OF MINAMITAMA =
The Hino Library incident remains unsolved
That's true
Without knowing who provided the weapons
the investigation into the MBC, with their suspected ties,
was dropped
The Hino Library was a warning...
"This is what happens when you oppose censorship"
Even so, the library chose to fight
Right, they rallied around Commander Nishina, who was Deputy Director at the time.
The only survivor…
Tragic, isn't it?
Yes, but why are you so interested? Wasn't this covered in class already?
More importantly, what are you doing about Tezuka?
This layered pork cutlet is delicious, right?
I never would've thought he'd ask you out
I know! What the heck is he thinking?
I thought it was a new way of messing with me
It's hard to believe he was being serious
"Awareness" is merely an emotional event
The words "animosity" or "opposition", awareness is just awareness...
It's simple... you're interested.
Really…
So what are your choices?
Fool around with Tezuka or wait and see what happens
Doesn't sound bad to me
But, I don't think I should have to make that choice
He's not the man of my dreams
Young maiden!
Sergeant, there's a young maiden here!
Cut it out!
Water, please
No problem
= THIS BOOK HAS NOT BEEN RESERVED = = ENTER CODE AGAIN=
= CODE DOESN'T MATCH = = PLEASE ENTER CORRECT CODE =
What's with this thing?
Wrong, wrong, wrong…
Excuse me…
No matter how many times I do it, I get an error
Why don't you ask Tezuka?
You guys still fighting?
Find a way to get along
Wait a second!
I'm sorry
I'll go ask Tezuka
Tezuka
asked Kasahara to go out with him
Thanks, you saved me!
I get it
When...
will you answer me?
About that...
Tezuka...
Don't you hate me?
It seems to me that I'm missing something
And you... you changed in some way
That's why
Not interested?
What do you think about me?
Huh?
Cut it out
I have enough work just keeping you guys out of trouble
That's right
If someone tries to grab the "flower of the LDF",
Dojo will stab them
Well said
This is Dojo on patrol, reporting in
Nothing to report in Ozawa
I am now heading directly to Kitamachi
Roger
You and Shibasaki, you make a good match
Where'd that come from?
No, I mean the same height…
A perfect match, huh?
What about you?
Tezuka
Are you going out with him or not?
Cut it out!
Talking to you about love, it's embarrassing...
You're the one that started this conversation!
Prince or whatever...
Stop! Forget I said that!
I'm going to regret saying that for the rest of my life
so don't bring it up again
Tezuka
He's a good guy
Is that your recommendation?
Take it or leave it
But I've got high standards
Aren't you the cocky one?
I told you I met my prince 5 years ago...
Now you're bringing it up again!
Whatever! My prince is my prince...
Do you even listen?!
Since I laid eyes on him, all other men are a little off,
no one can compare
He was just so cool...
- Are you listening? - I'm listening!
I respect him so much and really like him
If I could meet him,
I would make sure that I tell him
"I want to be just like you"!
Is that so?
Of course!
This is an urgent message from HQ
All vehicles on patrol return immediately to Kanto base
I repeat
All vehicles on patrol return immediately to Kanto base
Our next story,
Earlier today, Sohachi Nobeyama, former chairman of Nobeyama Corporation,
died at the hospital from pancreatic cancer
He was 84
The Odawara Historical Library that Mr. Nobeyama ran
was closed
In 1935, Mr. Nobeyama…
It's like the battle horn…
is sounding
Based on Mr. Nobeyama last will and testament
all of the materials at the Historical Library
will be taken into custody by the LDF
The MBC
is clamoring for it
Due to the extensive collection of materials
related to the Media Act that are stored there
it is believed to include evidence of injustices from the enaction of the Act
How come such dangerous
things were left untouched?
It was incorporated as a private library and
the reach of the MBF doesn't extend to private collections
But, to the MBF, this handover...
It's a once in a lifetime chance to destroy it all
However, if they fail,
all their secrets will be exposed
The day of his funeral is when it ceases to be a private library
and when the collection is turned over
They will do anything they can to get their hands on it
This is no longer just censorship
We anticipate a battle never before seen in the history of the LDF
We, too, will do everything we can
to keep the MBF from interfering!
Dojo's squad will detach Kasahara to HQ
for duty at the funeral
as a personal bodyguard to Commander Nishina
What?
The collection handover time is 1500
We will use helicopters to transport three containers of materials
The Task Force's primary mission is to protect the helicopters
Bring up the map
Lieutenant Dojo
Why am I the only one being detached?
Guarding VIPs is a critical mission for special forces
It's to be expected that someone is sent from our unit
I'm asking why it's me?!
Because you're useless in combat!
Got something to say?
Lieutenant Dojo
Did you really mean to say Kasahara is useless?
For speed and reflexes, Kasahara is better than me
Think about what you're saying,
and don't just chase after Kasahara
Didn't you say it's not right to use an argument as a weapon?
In order to recognize it, you have to look for it
Is that so?
My mistake
Dojo
A message from Kasahara
"I absolutely hate that runt!"
No respect...
What do you expect after what you said?
- Let's go - Yes, sir
- Hey, hurry up! - Roger
- Check it! - Hurry over there
Present Arms!
Somehow…
stay safe
A lot of blood will be shed again
- Hurry - Yes, sir
They're here
The ants are swarming to the treasure
- Nosaka... - Yes, sir
Remove the barricade
Here we go, sir
In accordance with Media Betterment memo #7726
We are here to conduct censorship activities under the authority of the Media Act, para. 3
According to Section 4, para. 34 of the Library Act,
we exercise the right to self defense
I suggest you surrender now
We don't want to create unnecessary casualties
Mere threats?
Let's see what you've got
As he finds himself in a better place,
beloved friends and family offer up flowers as tokens of respect
It's about time to begin transport of all materials by the Kanto LDF
Prepare to fire!
- Lock and load - Lock and load
Fire!
Defensive line 1, we are under attack!
You have permission to fire!
Cleared to go hot!
Prepare to fire!
Fire!
This is defensive line 1, they have superior firepower!
- Tachibana! - Yes, sir! Cover me!
Container number 2 is almost full
Aim carefully and shoot their freckles off
Yes, sir
I cannot get closer, I repeat
I cannot get closer!
Seriously?!
Cover Dojo! Ono is in command
Roger!
Fire!
Get ready!
Cover ready!
- Cover! - Fire!
Wind from the Northeast at a speed of 3
This is UH, entering as directed, over
Roger, do you have a visual? Over
Visual obtained, arrived at target location
Roger, we are taking fire in the vicinity, be careful
Over the container Hovering, start ops
Roger, starting slingload
Taking cover!
Roger
This is UH, container 1 slingload underway, over
Zero-zero, Roger
This is UH Returning to Kanto Base, over
Zero-Zero, Roger. Awaiting your return.
The MBF has started advancing! Move to the trenches!
Komaki!
Forward!
Never before… In the Hino Library incident,
625,098 books were destroyed
What was left...
was only this book
An important volume chronicling the local history
Concentrate fire!
Prepare to fire!
Fire!
Now, at Odawara Library
to protect the important documents that Mr. Nobeyama left behind
the LDF is engaged in battle
What Director Inamine protected...
What Mr. Nobeyama entrusted to us...
Was history, in the form of books
A lot of history has already been lost
Ideas have been destroyed...
The truth has been destroyed...
We will never permit this
Even if blood has to flow...
Prepare to blow it!
It's no good, we can't hold them!
Retreat to defensive line 2!
Retreat! Retreat!
Retreat!
Go! Move!
Hurry! Retreat!
Fire in the hole!
Forward!
Retreat!
Move out!
Hurry!
Still two coming, cover them!
Cover!
Ori, get up!
Ori's been hit!
I repeat! Ori's been hit!
Good job, Dojo
Warning shots aren't cutting it!
Keep it up!
We need backup!
This is UH, container #1 movement is complete
Returning for container #2, over
This is Kanto Library Base
Roger, good luck
Move to defensive line 3!
Moving to defensive line 3!
Cover the wounded!
Yes, sir!
Move!
- Let's go Sakuma! - Roger!
Let's go!
Up!
Sakuma!
Get down!
Sakuma, come on!
Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!
- Help! - Roger
Where's the medic!
Get going! Tachibana, let's go!
Hey!
Hey Medic! Hey!
They're coming in stairwell #1
We can't hold them off!
The helicopter is back!
This is Endo!
Move to defensive line 3!
This is Zero-Three, we've got a lot of wounded
What are you planning?!
Don't worry, try to rest
Kato, Ono, Sakada, Higa! Let's go!
Yes, sir!
Zero-Zero, this is Zero-Three
We are retreating to defensive line 3, I repeat
We are retreating to defensive line 3
Flight 2 is descending!
Flight 2, start slingload operations!
There's still 2 containers, hold line 3 at all costs!
Get out of here!
- Get out of here! - Roger!
Run!
Komaki!
This is UH, we're headed back to base
Zero-Zero, Roger After that, wait for orders
Slingload complete, one container left!
Don't question my methods, just do it
Understood
Let's do this
Fire!
Prepare to fire!
Fire!
We can't take anymore!
Hold it!
Attention MBF personnel
Cease hostilities!
LDF, give up the remaining materials
and abandon this building immediately!
I repeat
LDF, give up the remaining materials
and abandon this building immediately!
Captain Genda!
What's the meaning of this?
We have been required to cease fire and withdraw
Required?
Return to base, ASAP
They have taken Commander Nishina
Along with Kasahara
These products will be up to 30% off
until the end of the month
Tachikawa South Gate Shopping Center...
We are a group of concerned citizens
in support of the Media Act
Please incinerate all of the materials taken from the Library of History
If even one bit remains,
we will send the hostages into to the afterlife
You're from the police?
I was informed about the kidnapping
This way, please
No outside personnel...
But I'm part of Dojo's reserve unit!
Get out!
Give us proof they are unharmed
Just the girl...
Hello?
Are you ok?
We're both fine
Um, tonight, with Shibasaki
I promised we would eat layered pork cutlet
Could you let her know I can't make it?
Hey! It's just that it's my friend's birthday...
What was that? Cutlet...
My birthday has already passed
and we didn't have plans to go to Transall Restaurant tonight
Captain Genda, I'm the Kasahara that Shibasaki mentioned
What's the meaning of this?
The best restaurant for layered pork cutlet
is in Tachikawa
Bring up a map of Tachikawa
Look at routes coming from the funeral home and
locate a building that they could be using!
Yes, sir
The kidnappers identified themselves as "supporters of the Media Act"
Can't the police use the recording to figure out the location?
Tezuka, it's pointless to ask.
If you look at who's behind this, you'll find the MBC
This guy isn't acting as a policeman
He's just here for show
I don't have the time to deal with you!
Just go sit quietly in some corner
Listen up!
The LDF is gonna take care of this matter!
Yes, sir!
Where are you going, Dojo? You can't just do what you want!
I'm going to Tachikawa, if you find out anything, let me know
Dojo!
Don't try to stop me!
Solo missions are unauthorized
Does your leg hurt?
No, taking it off helped
Thank you
Oh, sorry about that
These 20 years,
close to 2000 bookstores have been forced to close
This place, too, was one of them
Is this a banned title?
You're wrong, give it back!
Don't bother
But that book…
It's just a book!
5 years ago
she was ready to give up her life to protect a single book
I don't regret helping her
I swore I wouldn't make the same mistake twice
But, she...
came here
Why...
did the world turn out this way?
People became apathetic
Most people thought "it doesn't affect me"
They didn't understand that it really meant
restrictions on their life
Sorry
Our generation
left this sort of world to all of you
But
As for me...
a book that I cherished
was protected by an LDF member
I received a future with the freedom
to read books
The LDF
is a sort of "Ally of Justice"
But to me…
to us...
you left us a future
For me...
being part of the LDF is
something I can be proud of
Dojo
That girl...
don't blame yourself that she joined the LDF
Got it?
Yeah
She's not the same girl anymore
She does whatever she sets her sights on
But
I can't stand it when
she does something reckless
I get so mad I can't be near her
Despite all that, I can't abandon her
I didn't have faith in her
That...
was my fault
I have to go
She's the future, so she has to be safe
The GPS in the commander's leg has started transmitting
Alright! We got it!
Get Dojo on the horn
Leg?
His false leg has a transmitter that is activated when it
is removed for more than 30 minutes
How did you know that?
Dojo, this is HQ, over
HQ, this is Dojo, over
The homing signal is coming from an abandoned bookstore in Tachikawa
We're headed there ASAP
Wait!
Are you armed?
Yes, sir
You are cleared hot
Bring them back at all costs
Roger!
Hey
The right to use weapons is restricted to the grounds of the library
So if it's inside the library, you don't have any complaints?
Buy the whole bookstore
I don't care how much they want
- Hurry up! - Yes, sir!
Headed out! Get ready
Cut the crap!
These 'offenses' are just something to get past
That's the LDF style
Are the preparations for incineration complete?
You're eager, aren't you?
To have a barbecue, you have to start the fire
Unfortunately, we can't seem to find our flamethrowers
Is that right?
Listen carefully
What did you do?!
Commander!
Start the incineration now
His right hand is next
You want to die?
If you're gonna shoot, then shoot
We won't yield to violence!
Your assistance is no longer needed
Don't move!
Stop it!
Libraries that upset public order
herein lies sin
Don't open it!
Kasahara!
Let's go, sir
Commander
We're through!
Go!
Go on ahead
Protect the commander!
Stop here for a second
- Sir, I'm letting you down - Ok
- I'm going to stop the bleeding - Thanks
I'm going to take a look
Kasahara!
Hands behind your head…
Let go!
Kasahara!
Shoot!
Drop the guns!
Hands behind your head! Down on your knees!
- Drop your weapons! - Fingers off the triggers
- Drop the guns! - 2nd and 3rd squads, check the 2nd floor!
Roger!
4th and 5th squads, check in the back!
Roger!
Careful, there could still be some hiding out
Roger!
Find Komaki and Commander Nishina!
Komaki!
I've found the commander!
- We're fine - Yeah
Commander, are you ok?
Ah, I'm fine
Dojo and Kasahara?
They're fine
That's great
Here we go...
4000 copies to circulate at Shinagawa port
Hurry up!
Over here! This way! Here!
- Yes, sir! - Hurry up!
Extra! Extra!
Read all about it!
Extra! Extra!
= KIDNAPPING OF = = LIBRARY BASE COMMANDER =
Well...
Just clean up now, huh?
Are we just letting it go?
I'm fine now, thank you
Um, ahh…
Just now...that was...
I was worried about you like you were my daughter...
You're saying you are my father?
- Nothing wrong with that! - You're the one…
Shut up!
You did well
About sending you away
I'm sorry
Thank you very much!
Go home
Dojo!
Eventually I...
am aiming for my Prince
Yeah
But, until then
I will aim for you!
I want to be an LDF member just like you!
What I'm saying…
I'll be the best
I will absolutely be the best!
You're saying I'm the best?
So you won't quit until retirement?
I'll be the best until then!
Do what you want!
I will do what I want!
= FULL ACCOUNT OF THE = = BATTLE OF ODAWARA LIBRARY =
= LDF vs. MBC =
The police have received 14,000 complaints!
That's amazing!
This sort of thing is fleeting
Pretty soon everyone's interest will fade
Do you really think so?
So it's our duty to keep it going
The Odawara Library materials that were appropriated
are currently being sorted
So the MBC is becoming more active, right?
It looks like we're in for another battle
Seems like it
To leave a future of freedom
You don't seem too sad about getting shot down
From the beginning,
I knew we were two different people
Huh? But you still asked her out?
You're kind of an idiot, huh?
When you heard that Kasahara was ok
you called me
I was a little surprised, but it was cute
If I told Kasahara,
she'd kill you
What do you mean?
That's the kind of friendship we have...
Strange woman...
Dojo
This is from Captain Genda
He said, "next time don't forget this"
That badge is a chamomile flower, right?
Flowers have symbolism
"Strength in the midst of adversity"
Strength in the midst of adversity…
Keep striving
No way...
What?
Junichi Okada as Atsushi Dojo
Nana Eikura as Iku Kasahara
Kei Tanaka as Mikihisa Komaki Sota Fukushi as Hikaru Tezuka
Naomi Nishida as Maki Orikuchi Jun Hashimoto as Ryusuke Genda
Special appearance by Chiaki Kuriyama as Asako Shibasaki
and Koji Ishizaka as Iwao Nishina