The deaths of several politicans at the hands of a single swordsman cause the police to request Kenshin and Sanosuke's aid as bodyguards. During the night, Kenshin suspects the swordsman might be an old rival based on the supernatural technique he used. At midnight, the killer, former Shinsengumi and hitokiri Jin-e, appears and starts killing bodyguards. He easily paralyses Sanosuke and the rest with his chi, but Kenshin resists. Attracted by his ability, Jin-e escapes, having decided to target him alone. Despite Kenshin's pleads to fight him alone, Kaoru confronts Kenshin, making him promise not to leave the town until returning her bow. However, Jin-e kindaps her, enraging Kenshin.