Young swordsman, Tsukigata Hanpeita, longs for the day when rival clans cease their struggles for power and put an end to meaningless feudal wars. When he is appointed to oversee the Choshu Clan, he takes it upon himself to work towards the peace that he has dreamed about. With his affectionate personality and compassion for life, Hanpeita’s popularity grows among the people, making him a threat to those thirsty for conflict and power. A betrayal by those closest to him leaves Hanpeita caught in a trap that could ultimately cost him his life.

維新前夜の京洛を舞台に、薩長連合に命を捧げる勤皇の志士半平太をめぐり、祗園芸者の恋、見廻組の兇刃、同志の裏切りなど数々の波瀾が展開。美剣士･橋藏が魅せる激動巨篇。