The story begins with the tragedy of Okada Izo, later feared as the ‘man‑slayer.’ Once a kind‑hearted youth who sought strength with pure intent, he was broken by the ruthless schemes of his master, Takechi Hanpeita. Driven by vengeance, he wielded his first blade—and from then on, he descended into a soulless killer, cutting down lives at his master’s command.
