"Death and Honor, Chapter 1"
At an undisclosed time in the future, Usagi, son of Miyamoto Usagi, has grown, and become a trusted Commander for the Shirohoshi Clan. Their rivals, the Kajitori, lead a raid on the the Shirohoshi's fortress, the Whitestar Castle, and are barely repulsed. Lord Hideaki, head of the Shirohoshi Clan, honors Usagi in the aftermath, and names Usagi as mentor to young Prince Kiyoshi. Hideaki has made arrangements that the Prince will be wed to Princess Masayo of the Mino Clan to provide a stronger front against the Kajitori aggressors. Hideaki then rebukes Commander Matabe, for his reckless actions. Months pass, with the Shirohoshi vigilant for the Kajitori's return, and it comes, as the dishonored Matabe betrays his Lord, providing a breech to security for the invaders. Lord Hideaki is taken, and commits suicide, but Usagi escapes with the Prince, who alone knows the secrets of the Castle, and is the key to the Kajitori's victory.