Commodore Perry's startling intrusion at Uraga in 1853 signaled the end of Japan's long isolation and the beginning of a century of national upheaval. Ancient customs were thrust aside as western culture descended upon the medieval country and laid claim to the Japanese soul. Into this epic struggle, Koji Ogato is born. The bi-racial son of Japanese Navy Commander Torushiro Ogato and American expatriate Laura McKenna, Koji comes of age in the ever increasing militarism of early 20th century Japan where world war forces him to decide between honoring his native land and realizing an American dream.