Hyakkimaru, the protagonist, is a nomadic “demon hunter” who had 48 additional body parts attached to his head and torso by an herbalist who found him as a baby. This process is reminiscent of “Frankenstein” and “The Island of Dr. Moreau.” His father, a warlord, had originally sacrificed these body parts to 48 demons in exchange for power. Each time Hyakkimaru defeats a demon, he regains one of his original body parts. During a battle with a massive spider demon, he is observed by Dororo, a tenacious female thief. She is intrigued not only by Hyakkimaru’s skill with the sword that extends from his arm but also by the new leg he acquires after defeating his foe. Is he human or a monster? After learning his story from an elderly minstrel, Dororo decides to accompany him on his journey to discover the truth for herself.