Seeking a replacement for his broken sakabato, Kenshin visits Seiku, the son of highly honored swordsmith Shakku Arai, only to learn that he has quit making swords. Respecting Seiku’s philosophy of peace, Kenshin gives up his request for a new blade. Meanwhile, Ten Swords member Hoji Sadojima reports to Shishio on Kenshin’s movements. Cho Sawagejo, another member of the Ten Swords, learns from the conversation between Shishio and Hoji that Kenshin doesn’t have Shakku Arai's last blade in his possession, prompting him to pay a visit to Seiku.