Takezo yields to Kyoto after years in the road setting his reputation as the biggest fencer of Japan. Otsu begs for him, yet he's come not but to challenge the pioneer of the finest school of fencing of the region. To establish his valor and skill, he walks blatantly in to ambushes setup by the school's followers. While Otsu waits, Akemi also hunts him, expressing her dreams directly. Meanwhile, Takezo is discovered by Sasaki Kojiro, a fighter that is brilliant, convinced he could dethrone Takezo. After departing Kyoto in triumph, Takezo declares his love in a way that shames him and dishonors her. He leaves.