During Japan's Sengoku period, a young orphan named Kotarou and his dog Tobimaru steal from unsuspecting villagers to make ends meet. However, Kotarou is forced to stay on the run when he finds himself hunted by assassins sent by China's Ming Dynasty for mysterious reasons unrelated to his petty crimes. Fortunately, the duo encounters Nanashi, a ronin taking refuge in a small temple, when Kotarou is attacked and Tobimaru is poisoned. Although the samurai saves the helpless pair from their pursuers, he feels there is no need to help them further; but when offered a gem in exchange for his services as a bodyguard, he reluctantly accepts Kotarou's offer of employment—just until Tobimaru is healed and the two reach their destination. As the three set out on a perilous journey, it soon becomes evident that their path is riddled with danger, as the Ming Dynasty has now sent a terrifying swordsman after them to capture Kotarou and fulfill a certain prophecy.