With Ukyo hot on their trail, Kambei and the others visit his old friend, Shichiroji, at an inn in the city of Kougakyo. Shichiroji tells them of a secret passage they can use to escape. Will they be able to loose Ukyo? Will Shichiroji join them or will he stay behind with Yukino? And, what has happened to Kikuchiyo?

The samurai arrive at Kanna Village, but find that many of the inhabitants seem to be missing. While Kambei meets with the village elder, Kikuchiyo discovers that the women of the village have gone into hiding along with the rice. He reveals this to the other samurai and they begin the work of preparing the village for the coming battle with the Nobuseri. But, a traitor lurks in the village's midst...

While Katsushiro, Kikuchiyo, Kirara, and Komachi plan to save Kambei from the Amanushi, Ukyo is chosen as the successor of Amanushi with a shocking discovery. Even more shocking is what he does next!