In Edo period Japan, Judge Yoshioka reflects upon prior cases in which torture was utilized.

One day, Shinzô is injured in a logging accident and a local kimono shop owner, Minosuke, pays for his doctor’s fees.

Arrested for the assault, Mitsu is interrogated with torture by the authorities, led by Lord Nanbara about the rumor of an incestuous relationship.

Presented before Judge Yoshioka, who bears a striking resemblance to her brother, it is revealed that Minosuke confessed to raping Mitsu.

Horicho is a renowned tattoo artist working in Edo, admired for his pieces depicting hellish torments.

At a showing for his latest work, everyone is impressed sans Lord Nanbara who stops by, critiquing Horicho’s tattoo as lacking the pleasure inherent in torture.

Using Nanbara’s death throes as the last piece of inspiration, Horicho finishes his tattoo and dubs it his masterpiece.

Upon finding the scene, the authorities attempt to arrest Horicho, who sets a fire inside the barn.