Watch "Ōoku: The Inner Chambers: Season 1" on Netflix USA

In this extended episode that includes a prelude to the main story; a boy is attacked by a wild bear, introducing a plague that affects only males.

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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.

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

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

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Iemitsu steps out into the open and announces her intentions, creating major changes across the country.

Available on Netflix USA