Chapter 53
Summary
- Blackthorne, now adorned in a formal Japanese uniform and carrying the swords given to him by Toranaga, is escorted to Osaka Castle.
- Reflecting on the recent attack that killed Uraga, Blackthorne regrets losing his valuable source of knowledge.
- Yabu informs Blackthorne that he will stay in Toranaga's section of the castle and later travel to Nagasaki, disguised as a trip to Mishima.
- Blackthorne is still unsettled by the execution ground he passes and by the memory of an earlier ambush.
- Inside the castle, Blackthorne is provided with new clothes but is unable to find Lady Mariko, his intended contact.
- Attending a grand event with other samurai and guests, Blackthorne feels conspicuous and seeks a more discreet position.
- Blackthorne encounters the Lady Ochiba, a woman of significance and allure, and an uncomfortable exchange with Ishido.
- Lady Ochiba engages Blackthorne in conversation, impressed by his use of Japanese and accepting his gift of a camellia blossom.
- Mariko interrupts the conversation, with Blackthorne managing to maintain poise despite Ishido's provocations.
- Kiyama, a senior samurai and Christian daimyo, discusses the status of Christians and the Black Ship with Lady Ochiba and Ishido.
- The atmosphere becomes tense as Mariko openly challenges Ishido regarding her right to leave Osaka, causing a stir amongst the gathered guests.
- Mariko's son, Saruji, has a physical impairment and is engaged in a politically significant betrothal.
- Mariko's assertive stance against Ishido leads to speculation and murmurs of dissent among the other notable figures in attendance.
- Mariko, Kiri, and Lady Sazuko are escorted by Grays after leaving the event, creating friction with Yabu due to the heightened security measures.
- Mariko reassures Yabu of her allegiance and manages to placate him by appearing apologetic for her earlier actions.
- Mariko has a private conversation with Kiyama, who presses her for the real reason behind her confrontation with Ishido.
- Kiyama insists that Mariko reconsider her stance and warns her of the repercussions, including the potential cancellation of Saruji's betrothal.
- Mariko stands firm on her duty to follow Toranaga's orders despite Kiyama's efforts to invoke loyalty to the Heir and the Church.
- Kiyama learns of a plot against his life, revealed by Mariko, but chooses not to fully believe it without further evidence.
- Mariko discusses the strategic importance of Blackthorne with Kiyama, suggesting that his survival may be beneficial to multiple parties.
- Mariko delivers a message from Toranaga to Kiyama, revealing a potential betrayal by Ishido and making an appeal for an alliance.
- Kiyama remains skeptical of Toranaga's sincerity and suspects that Mariko herself may be manipulated by Toranaga's machinations.