From the introduction: The story that’s about to unfold is one conjoining fate, youth, war, love, comedy, tragedy, conspiracy, life, death, and immortality. During the 2nd year of the Genryaku period (1185), on the island nation of Japan, a war for dominion waged between the Minamoto clan of the east, and the TaIra clan of the west. Battle after battle was won by the Minamoto clan. Just as the Minamoto readied themselves to slaughter the crestfallen Taira, demonic winds tore them asunder, earning the Taira ultimate victory.