The story begins in the middle of World War I. , a man who appreciates order, shovels, and not being bothered, finds himself stuck in a bit of a predicament. He has successfully captured Italy , a prisoner of war who seems less interested in escaping and more interested in the quality of the local pasta and whether Germany wants to be "friends."

Japan is the polar opposite of Italy. He is quiet, polite to a fault, and spends his time meticulously carving a miniature model of a battleship. When Germany and Italy arrive to propose an alliance, Japan listens with stoic patience. He doesn't say much, but he agrees to join them, officially forming the .

The two travel across the world to a secluded, misty island to meet a mysterious man named .