Gambino, the leader of a mercenary group, encounters a gruesome scene where a dead woman has given birth to a living baby among hanging corpses. Despite initial skepticism, Gambino agrees to adopt the baby, named Guts, at the insistence of a woman named Shisu. Over the years, Gambino blames Guts for Shisu's death, trains him in swordsmanship, and becomes increasingly resentful. Guts faces harsh treatment, including being prostituted to a fellow mercenary by Gambino. When Gambino loses his leg in battle, his bitterness intensifies, culminating in a drunken attempt to kill Guts. In self-defense, Guts fatally wounds Gambino. Later, in Guts' dreams, Gambino appears as a haunting figure, symbolizing unresolved guilt and trauma from their tumultuous past.