Gokenin Zankuro Matsudaira's life is marked by poverty and lost love. He becomes involved in a mystery surrounding a missing son, leading to a tragic ending with stolen lives.
Zankuro and Harutaro succeed at a new school. Tatsukichi loves Harutaro, while Zankuro meets Shinzaemon. Harutaro's past and skills tie to Shinzaemon's hidden son, Genbei.
Zankuro escorts Omachi, Yakuza conflicts follow. Teaming up with Zoshu, tragedy strikes Omachi, forcing Zankuro to make a just but tough decision in a final battle.
Kobei's surprise marriage, Otama's resemblance to Zankuro's crush, robbers' scheme at Daikokuya, and Zankuro's poignant act shape a bittersweet tale.
Zankuro Matsudaira must recover a stolen sword to save a high-ranking samurai's honor and his own life, with the help of a pickpocket.
Zankuro's task to behead a criminal takes a twist, leading to a tragic showdown with a corrupt magistrate's head.
