Isurugi Raij?ta, a truly old-school swordsman, comes to Kenshin and requests his aid in reforming the state of swordsmanship schools, or kenjutsu dojo, in Japan. Although Kenshin is intrigued by Raij?ta's ideals (chiefly, that there is a need for a nation-wide, unifying school), Raij?ta's plan to "weed out" the schools he deems unfit is not in accordance with Kenshin's deepest-held beliefs. Given the choice of either joining Raij?ta's "Shinko-ry?" movement or dying, Kenshin walks away, choosing neither. But Raij?ta isn't willing to let Kenshin off the hook so easily... Rating: T+
His sakabato broken in battle, Kenshin seeks out the man who forged it - Arai Shakku- only to be turned away. Seiku, son of the legendary swordsmith, had for a time been continuing his father's work (the forging of katana, meant for killing), but has since given up that calling and spends his time making humble cooking knives. Respecting Seiku's wishes, Kenshin leaves without the desired blade...but not before Shishio's spies learn that Shakku has forged one last sword. Meanwhile, Shishio arrives in Kyoto with orders for his ten generals or "Ten Swords" to join him and put into motion a plan to take over Japan. Cho, one of Shishio's "swords," learns early of Shakku's final blade and determines to secure it at any cost. Now, armed only with his broken sakabato, Kenshin must face Cho in battle...
Kenshin and his comrades have finally discovered the location of Enishi's island compound, but to free Kaoru from captivity, a good deal of fighting will be necessary. Woo Heishin meets them on the beach and brings his deadly bodyguards. Kenshin's comrades dive into combat with Woo Heishin's warriors as Kenshin prepares himself for his duel with Enishi. Rating: T+
A recent enemy has recruited a ruthless assassin to bring down Kenshin and steal Kamiya dojo! Can Kenshin maintain his oath to never shed blood again and protect his new friends?!