The Heike Story

If You Don't Belong to the Heike, You Won't Be a Person

The Taira clan, also known as the Heike, has reached unprecedented power and influence in Japan. Through strange and terrible circumstances, a biwa-playing girl finds herself enmeshed in the story of their political strife.

The Glory of the Corrupt World Is a Dream in a Dream

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.

Shishigatani Incident

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.

Unwritten Affair

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.

Bridge Battle

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.

City Transition

Kiyomori moves the capital to Fukuhara, a new figure moves against the Heike, and Koremori is charged with leading the counterattack.

Kiyomori, Dies

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.

Leaving the Capital

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

Heike Flowing

A chance encounter leads Biwa to her mother. The Heike take refuge in Dazaifu, but their respite is cut short.

Dan-no-ura

Having discovered her purpose, Biwa returns to the Heike to witness events play out. The final clash between the Heike and the Genji approaches.

The Impermanence of Worldly Things

Biwa witnesses the final clash between the Heike and the Genji. In the aftermath, Biwa sets out to tell the Heike's story.