Sharp Katana John Lee model The 47 Ronin

In the early 18th century, the Shogun commissioned the two princes Kamei Korechika and Asano Naganori to prepare a reception ceremony for the emperor's emissary. The two were to be tutored by the corrupt emcee Kira Kozuk. However, he expected generous gifts in return for teaching them about court etiquette. In stark contrast to Kamei, Asano refused his instructor's demands, for which he was manhandled, insulted, and provoked by the master of ceremonies. After a while of tolerating this behavior, he attacked Kira with his knife. Although only slightly injured, the offense was punishable by death, so Asano committed seppuku, ritual suicide.

Among Asano's followers were 47 samurai, who became Ronin (homeless samurai). Knowing that the blood vengeance oath meant death, they devised a plan to assassinate the Master of Ceremonies. After months of preparation, they finally managed to break into Kira's property, execute him, and then cut off his head. After laying their heads on Asano's grave, the Ronin surrendered. Once they avenged their master by acting in accordance with the samurai code of honor, the Ronin were allowed to commit suicide by seppuku, which prevented them from being executed as common criminals. This event is considered an excellent example of the unconditional loyalty of the samurai and loyalty to his master.