Matoba Kokingo, who once served as a retainer for a hatamoto, becomes disillusioned with his master and elopes with his lover, Oyuki. They flee their lord's household, taking with them 30 ryō of official funds. However, the money is stolen from them at an inn, and shortly after, Oyuki dies of illness. Eight years later, Kokingo has fallen into disgrace, now making a living as a ronin who specializes in extortion. One day, he attempts to extort a restaurant owner named Hanzo, only to discover that Hanzo was the very thief who stole the 30 ryō from him eight years ago…