Meanwhile, Shishio’s plan begins to unfold. He isn't just looking for a duel; he is planning a "Great Kyoto Fire" to distract the authorities while he launches a naval strike on Tokyo. Kenshin crosses paths with Sōjirō for the first time, and the encounter is disastrous—Sōjirō’s speed is so great that he manages to (reverse-blade sword), leaving the hero defenseless. The Battle for the City
Kenshin is torn. To stop Shishio, he must travel to Kyoto and likely face a level of violence that threatens his "No-Kill" vow. After Ōkubo is assassinated by Shishio’s cold-blooded right hand, , Kenshin realizes he has no choice. He says a heartbreaking goodbye to Kaoru and sets off alone on the road to Kyoto. The Road to Kyoto Meanwhile, Shishio’s plan begins to unfold
Kenshin pursues them to the ship, where he is forced into a frantic battle. In a desperate move to break Kenshin’s spirit, Shishio throws Kaoru into the ocean. Kenshin leaps in after her, but the waves are too strong. The Cliffhanger The Battle for the City Kenshin is torn
Kenshin washes up on a beach, unconscious and exhausted. He is found by a mysterious man—revealed to be his former master, . As Kenshin stares up at the man who taught him everything, he realizes that to defeat a monster like Shishio, he must finally complete his training and master the ultimate technique of the Hiten Mitsurugi-ryū. He says a heartbreaking goodbye to Kaoru and