Centuries of peace are coming to an end. Across the nation, factions assemble in anticipation of civil war. Imperial loyalists unite under the banner of "sonno joui" - revere the Emperor, and expel the barbarians. They fight to overthrow Japan's military dictatorship and shut its borders to foreign influence.

Meanwhile, the ruling government, the Bakufu, has assigned special police forces to maintain order - provided they can manage to coexist without drawing blades on one another. And in the capital city of Kyo, a man who will change the course of history seeks justice... and revenge.

Sakamoto Ryoma.

Accused of murdering someone he holds dear, this lowly samurai from a backwater land renounces his name and goes into hiding.

To find the true killer's identity, Ryoma must conceal himself among the wolves of the infamous Shinsengumi. Taking the alias Saito Hajime, it isn't long before he winds up embroiled in the political schemes and savage violence that will reshape the country - and give rise to legends.