The peace between the Kouga and Iga is broken. The outcome of the battle will determine the next Shogun. Passions of the past reignite as two scrolls are sent out into the night.

Gennosuke and Oboro foresee a lasting peace once their romantic intentions are made public - but the Iga have already set their first trap.

The Iga set out to intercept the second scroll. The path to victory will lie open before them if they can keep the news of war from reaching the Kouga.

Gennosuke and Udono feast with the Iga clan, who hide fatal intentions behind false smiles. Inspired by drunken lust and blinded by loyalty and trust, forgiveness will bring the end of one ninja's life.

Tenzen arrives at the Kouga stronghold, claiming to carry a message from Gennosuke. A brutal battle erupts when the suspicions of the Kouga prove warranted.

The Iga raiders take Okoi captive while the Kouga attempt to understand why they were attacked. Meanwhile, Gennosuke remains in the Iga village - unaware that a war has begun.