Chapter 23

Summary

• Mariko assists Blackthorne (Anjin-san) in drinking some saké as their convoy halts.
• They are closely guarded by the Browns and the Grays, with protective measures around "Kiritsubo-san's" litter.
• Yabu proposes leaving Mariko and a few men behind with Blackthorne to wait for his recovery, but the captain of the Grays insists on staying together for safety.
• Blackthorne reassures others of his safety in Portuguese but switches to Latin with Mariko to discuss the situation discreetly.
• Mariko, knowledgeable in Latin and Portuguese, warns Blackthorne to speak cautiously, even in Latin.
• During their private conversation, Blackthorne mistakenly believes he fooled the captain of the Grays into thinking he doesn't speak Portuguese.
• Blackthorne is offered Mariko's litter to ride in after they resume their journey; he observes the city and converses with Mariko.
• Mariko explains Japanese customs, including their cooking, frugality, and virtue in minimalism, as well as women's roles and rights in their society.
• They share personal histories; Mariko hints at a "sadness" related to her past and her family's history.
• Mariko educates Blackthorne about Japanese beliefs and the divine lineage of the emperor while maintaining her Christian faith.
• The conversation reveals complex cultural differences, including the harsh treatment of women caught alone with men who are not their husbands.
• Mariko subtly interrogates Blackthorne about his intentions and reasons for acting as he did earlier at the gate.
• The chapter reveals insights into both characters' values and the dynamics of their relationship.
• It becomes evident that the captain of the Grays also understands Latin, which is a critical slip during the conversation.
• The group's progress through the city is interrupted by an ambush with arrows targeting them.
• Despite initial chaos, Toranaga survives due to protective armor, and Mariko and Blackthorne narrowly avoid being hit by arrows.
• Yabu, Buntaro, and their men engage in a fierce battle against the attackers, who are revealed to be Grays.
• A Gray officer demands Toranaga's detention, but the order leads to further conflict and the officer's defeat by Buntaro.
• Mariko demonstrates her martial prowess by defending Toranaga with a sword and using a flare as a weapon.
• Battle breaks out on the streets with Browns and Grays fighting fiercely, and some Grays are sent to fetch reinforcements.
• Yabu and Blackthorne join the fight; ultimately, the Grays are defeated or retreat.
• The chapter concludes with Toranaga unharmed but standing calmly amidst chaos, exemplifying his commanding presence.