Abandoned as a child, Ichir is raised by a mysterious samurai who teaches him the way of the sword. Living as a recluse in the heart of the mountain wilderness, he grows up to the rhythm of the seasons, at once blissfully carefree and yet also apprenticed to a discipline that demands perseverance and courage. But one terrible night, Ichiro's life is turned upside down. He must turn his back on his childhood to face the world... and his destiny.