Early Edo period. A family lived in the woods within the neutral zone between the Tsubaki and Hino domains. The head of the household, Saru, was a former ninja. With the era now peaceful and his skills no longer needed, he stayed home as a househusband, protecting his family. He had always disliked bloody work and, during his active years, had primarily worked as a mediator in conflicts. His wife, Kumo, was a sought-after ninja hired by other domains. Her earnings, secured through intermediaries, were the family's lifeline. Their four children were: their youngest biological son, Usagi; Kumo's eldest daughter from a previous marriage, Chō; and the orphaned eldest son, Ryū, and second daughter, Gō.