Ittou Ogami has very little left to live for. Although he was once the Shogunate's chief executioner, his reputation is in ruins after being framed for treason by the treacherous Yagyuu Clan, who sought to steal his position of power. His misfortune does not end there, however; it culminates in the brutal murder of his entire family, including his wife Azami, leaving only his child Daigorou alive. With dishonor upon his head and his beloved wife in the grave, Ittou takes up a new role as an assassin for hire. Alongside his young son, Ittou wanders the country in search of revenge, with only the complete destruction of the Yagyuu Clan on his mind. As he travels the land, the number of his successful assassinations quickly grows, and soon the moniker of "Lone Wolf and Cub" becomes infamous across the land as the choice assassin to get the job done right.