"A long war between the Grasslands and Zexen has taken a heavy toll. When a long-needed truce fails, a quest is undertaken to find the legendary Flame Champion, who saved the Grasslands in another war years before."

The third of the Suikoden series highlights the struggle of the bearers of the 5 elemental True Runes; True Fire Rune, True Water Rune, True Lightning Rune, True Earth Rune and True Wind Rune; amidst the chaos that ensued within the Grasslands. Who is the mastermind and what is his/her/their purpose?

Based on the PS2 video game, it is also loosely based on the Water Margin classics, though it's limited only to the gathering of 108 Stars of Destiny in order to restore order.