Blade for Barter is the story of Ryusuke Washington, a private samurai for hire. He lives in New Edo, a hodgepodge city-state where New York City meets ancient Japan, where monolithic skyscrapers tower over ramshackle wooden huts, and salarymen and samurai walk side-by-side.

Along with his loyal dog Hachiko, our noble hero Ryusuke must deal with the likes of the corrupt Samurai Union, the Mafuza (a cross between the Italian mafia and the Yakuza); a Ninja Union of clumsy ninja; a sinister Zen monk televangelist, and more - not to mention the temper-tantrum prone Lord Hoseki, who rules New Edo with bejeweled fingers and an iron fist.

About the Author(s)

By Jason DeAngelis and Hai!

Jason DeAngelis brings with him an expertise in Japanese language and culture, having lived, worked, and studied martial arts in Japan for six years. Working as a freelance Japanese translator, he has translated such prominent manga titles as Berserk and Gundam Seed. He is also the Chief Creative Officer at Seven Seas, and oversees original manga production.