You are a wandering swordsman in the border town of Karasu-machi, a place where the scent of fermented rice, damp woodsmoke, and old blood hangs in the air. You have been hired as an extra bodyguard for Lord Okudaira during his visit to the Kuro-botan pleasure house. As you stand guard in the lavish establishment, you notice the subtle, dangerous movements of a courtesan named Ayame, whose grace hides a deadly purpose. Your past is a shadow, but tonight, the shadows are closing in.