Inu-oh

900 years ago, the powerful Genji clan embarks on an epic quest to retrieve the Imperial Regalia, aiming to unify the emperor's throne. This journey sets the stage for a fierce rivalry with the Heike clan, leading to an inevitable clash.

The Genji clan engages in a decisive battle against the Heike clan at Dan-no-ura. This confrontation culminates in their victory, yet it leaves a tragic mark on history as the child emperor meets a sorrowful fate.

As the battle ends, the young emperor drowns while desperately grasping the Grasscutter Sword. This moment not only seals his tragic fate but also ignites a haunting legacy tied to the sword's immense power.

Fast forward 300 years, agents of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu recruit a young boy named Tomona for a dangerous mission. He and his father are tasked with retrieving a mysterious box from a Heike shipwreck, unaware of the dark consequences that await them.

Upon opening the box, Tomona's father unsheathes the Grasscutter Sword, unknowingly unleashing destructive energy. This catastrophic event results in his death and blinds young Tomona, setting him on a path of discovery and grief.

Haunted by his father's spirit, Tomona embarks on an arduous quest to uncover the truth behind his father's demise. This journey leads him to a narrative intertwined with the histories of the past and the present.

While traveling, Tomona meets a group of blind biwa players who inspire him to learn the instrument. Embracing this new identity, he adopts the name 'Tomoichi,' marking a transformative moment in his life.

Parallel to Tomona's journey, a Noh dance troupe leader grapples with the intense disdain he holds for his deformed son, forced to wear a mask. The son secretly practices Noh dance, a vital act that leads to a miraculous restoration.

The deformed boy, named 'Inu-Oh,' crosses paths with Tomoichi, leading to a deep bond that defies societal norms. As they share their experiences, they discover the presence of Heike warriors' spirits longing to tell their stories.

Encouraged by their visions, Tomoichi and Inu-Oh decide to form a new performing troupe. Rebranding themselves, they take on the names 'Tomoari' and 'Inu-Oh,' promising to honor the spirits of the Heike warriors in their performances.

Tomoari and Inu-Oh's debut performance on a bridge captures the attention of many. Combining hair metal and traditional dance, their act dramatically narrates the tragic stories of the Heike soldiers, propelling them to fame.

As their popularity grows, Ashikaga seeks to monopolize the retelling of Heike tales. He cunningly exploits Inu-Oh's father, manipulating him into a conflict that jeopardizes their newfound success and reveals Inu-Oh's tragic origins.

The revelation of Inu-Oh's origins catalyzes a series of tragic events, resulting in the spirits of the Heike warriors flocking to him. This binding of spirits ultimately leads to Inu-Oh's father's betrayal, culminating in severe repercussions.

Inu-Oh's attempt to perform a censored version of Heike history leads to dire confrontation with Ashikaga's forces. Despite his efforts, the group faces calamity as Tomoari's defiance leads to his execution.

In the haunting conclusion, the narrator, now a spirit who once was Tomoari, shares the journey of reclaiming his name 'Tomona.' Together with Inu-Oh’s spirit, they embrace their past through performance, solidifying their eternal bond.