Blade of Fury

In 1895, after Taiwan is ceded to Japan, the Black Flag resistance continues to fight on. Wang Wu, their charismatic leader, goes into hiding to avoid capture. This quiet period sets the stage for the later reformist clashes.

In 1899, reformers Tan Szu-tung and Nine Catties journey from northeast China toward Peking to urge sweeping reforms. They become caught in a violent clash between bandits and Imperial guards led by Yuan Shi-kai. During the turmoil they realize the powerful blacksmith bearing a Black Flag tattoo is Wang Wu.

With the group’s encouragement, Wang Wu begins organizing a martial arts school in the town. His reputation grows as locals and reform-minded youths flock to his teachings. The school becomes a center for training and aspiration.

Yuan Shi-kai acknowledges Wang Wu's rising influence and gifts him a broadsword. The exchange signals a shifting balance of power and the complex politics surrounding the reform movement.

Wang Wu comes to the help of a noblewoman troubled with her boat, proving his willingness to assist those in need. In gratitude, she gives him a red umbrella when they reach Lord Yee's palace, a token that will recur in the tale.

At Lord Yee's palace, Wang Wu enters a martial arts tournament and defeats Master Po Ting's son, then Master Po Ting himself. The victories elevate his standing among students and patrons.

Siu-Chuen visits Wang Wu and asks to be trained, reflecting the growing demand from youths for instruction. Many others follow, hoping to learn his methods, while Yuan Shi-kai and Lord Yee consider Wang Wu’s future role.

Lord Yee invites the Japanese martial arts champion Kenja and Wang Wu to open a Sino-Japanese martial arts club for him. Wang Wu refuses to work with the Japanese champion, and Po Ting takes his place in the arrangement.

Kenja's challenge leads to Wang Wu's arrest by Lord Yee for disobeying and fighting with the Japanese. The noblewoman intervenes, and Tan Szu-tung and Nine Catties rescue Wang Wu from prison.

Wang Wu borrows a sword from Yu Man-san and, disguising himself as one of Lord Yee's men, beheads Tan Szu-tung in a public ceremony. The act marks a brutal turning point and signals the collapse of reformer leadership.

Wang Wu confronts Yuan Shi-kai, and Nine Catties, Siu-chuen, and Chung Sang arrive to help. Ngo Pai and Po Ting come to Yuan Shi-kai's aid, leading to brutal exchanges where Siu-Chuen is killed and Wang Wu kills Ngo Pai.

Nine Catties dies in an explosion during the battle between Wang Wu and Yuan Shi-kai. Chung Sang, still alive, witnesses the carnage from a rooftop as the fight rages on. Lord Yee's soldiers then arrive and kill Wang Wu.

Chung Sang remains alive and reflects on the fallen reformers as the city settles into new power. The noblewoman eventually returns to Wang Wu's grave to honor him and the cause.

In the final image, the noblewoman leaves a red umbrella at Wang Wu's grave, honoring the reformers who inspired him even in death.