Chapter 16
Summary
- Toranaga and Ishido are in a diplomatic conversation regarding the removal of the foreigner (Blackthorne) from Toranaga's custody.
- Ishido apologizes for his actions, revealing a loss of face and confirming Toranaga's strategic advantage.
- Both men discuss various subjects, including proper samurai behavior, disciplines, and arts of war and peace.
- Toranaga is aware that Ishido is assembling additional forces under the guise of searching for bandits, indicating a tightening trap around Toranaga.
- Families and hostages are a pivotal part of their discussion, highlighting leverage and potential consequences in their power struggle.
- Blackthorne's presence and relationship with the Japanese leaders, as well as an assassination at Ieyasu's mother, might affect the impending conflict.
- Toranaga and Hiro-matsu contemplate their next move under the threat of imminent betrayal.
- Mariko arrives to interpret between Toranaga and Blackthorne, surprising Blackthorne who expected Father Alvito.
- Mariko and Kiri discuss the challenges of being women in their role, influence, and obligation to secrecy.
- Blackthorne describes his homeland and journeys, sparking interest and amusement from the Japanese, but strains to navigate through cultural differences and sensitive topics.
- Blackthorne reveals crucial information about world politics and religion, emphasizing the power of the Pope and the division between Catholic and Protestant nations.
- Toranaga shows both skepticism and interest in Blackthorne's knowledge about global politics, trade, and navigation, while Mariko and Kiri discuss verifying his claims.
- Toranaga considers summoning a priest to confirm Blackthorne's information about the Pope's decrees and influence.
- Toranaga evaluates his plans for Blackthorne, as the arrival of a Buddhist nun interrupts their meeting.