This Warring States period story, by the masterful Yokoyama Mitsuteru, whose many masterpieces include the exploits of the young Saito Dosan and his one-eyed ninja servant, Saruhiko, is about to begin. Attacked by enemies and left near death, Saruhiko seeks help from the home of an oil seller named Shogoro. Shogoro nurses Saruhiko to his feet, copying secret documents he possesses and using them to recommend him to the rank of samurai. However, when Saruhiko notices his actions and nearly kills him, Shogoro secures Saruhiko's back-up, promising him a promotion upon promotion...!?