Making the decision to fight against Shishio, Kenshin leaves Kamiya Dojo and sets off for Kyoto via the Tokaido by himself. Meanwhile, Sanosuke and Yahiko attempt to go to Kyoto to follow Kenshin.
In order to earn money for their dojo, the Peace Force signs on to help protect a merchant ship from pirates. However, to keep Kaoru from falling into the hands of the pirate’s female leader, Shura, Kenshin offers himself in exchange.