Shigemori rushes to deal with the fallout of Kiyomori's assault on the regent. As Biwa spends more time with Shigemori's family, she begins to open up.

After the passage of several years, Biwa catches up with a friend. A clash with the Enryakuji monks bodes ill for the Heike, and Shigemori is compelled to take drastic action to restrain Kiyomori.

Tokuko finally carries Emperor Takakura's child. The prospect of an emperor from the Taira lineage is a happy tiding, but the prospect of Kiyomori's tightening grip on power bodes ill.

Shigemori's passing hits Kiyomori hard. However, with Shigemori gone, no one is left to stand up to Kiyomori, leaving his whims and ambitions unchecked.

The capital is moved back to present-day Kyoto.Amidst the political turmoil the move ignites, Biwa and the others are shaken by unexpected deaths.

Having been kicked out of her home, Biwa sets off on a journey for clues about her mother. The Heike's military challenges continue.