Sword of the Stranger

In Japan's warring Sengoku era, a young orphan named Kotarou and his loyal dog Tobimaru survive by stealing from villagers. But when assassins from China's Ming Dynasty begin hunting Kotarou-for reasons unrelated to his small-time thefts-the pair are forced to flee. After an ambush leaves Tobimaru poisoned and Kotarou helpless, they stumble upon Nanashi, a wandering ronin sheltering in a temple. Though Nanashi rescues them, he sees no reason to stick around-until Kotarou offers a precious gem in exchange for protection. Reluctantly, Nanashi agrees to act as their bodyguard, but only until Tobimaru recovers and they reach their destination. As the three travel together, the danger grows. The Ming Dynasty has dispatched a fearsome swordsman to seize Kotarou, tied to a dark prophecy that threatens them all. Their journey becomes a desperate fight for survival.