A Collection of Volumes 16 - 18!

Second only to Shishio Makoto when it comes to skill with a blade, the emotionless warrior Seta Sôjirô‘s speed and agility are pushing Kenshin to the breaking point. But how did a seemingly humble man such as Sôjirô decide to ally himself with the ruthless hitokiri Shishio? Mid-battle, Sôjirô pauses to reflect back on his fateful encounter with the man to whom he would one day pledge his loyalty. Has Sôjirô truly reconciled himself to his master's downright homicidal worldview?

And finally, Kenshin's long-awaited duel with Shishio commences. With nothing less than the future of Japan hanging in the balance, Kenshin's resolution to never again take a life is about to be put to the ultimate test. Assistance also comes from Sanosuke, Saitô Hajime and Shinomori Aoshi, but to the power-hungry Shishio, men even of their caliber can be swatted down like so many flies. Will someone find Shishio's weakness before he annihilates the greatest swordsmen the Meiji Era has to offer? Furthermore, can Kenshin's dream for a new Japan be possible as long as Shishio still draws breath?