Guided to a marshy edge of Yedo, Blackthorne reaches a hybrid Dutch-Japanese house flying a limp Dutch flag and, to his astonishment, reunites with his crew. In a chaotic, liquor-fueled welcome he learns that Captain-General Spillbergen died in the pit and Maetsukker succumbed to a gangrenous wound. The men describe their controlled freedom, regular inspections, and life among eta, as well as Van Nekk’s still and the availability of women.

Blackthorne announces they will be at sea in about a month, stoking hopes of prizes and riches, but withholds his samurai rank, Toranaga’s patronage, and the full Nagasaki plan. He hears how Vinck, via a Portuguese-speaking samurai named Sato-sama, oversaw a complete refit by Toranaga’s workers—careening, bilges scrubbed, new silk sails, restored cannon, and ample powder. The crew detail their movements’ limits and support, revealing Yedo’s barriers and the bridge beyond which they may not pass.

Realizing the settlement is an eta village and crawling with fleas, Blackthorne leaves abruptly, discarding his infested kimono and seeking the castle bath house. He scrubs away the stench and conflict he feels between loyalty to his countrymen and his immersion in Japanese ways, deliberately compartmentalizing doubts about identity and contempt for the crew’s ignorance.

At dawn he goes aboard Erasmus under guard led by Musashi Mitsutoki. He inspects keel, rigging, spars, and magazine, confirming the ship is sound and ready for sea, with only minor ropework to correct. In his cabin, he weighs his swords, reflects on Mariko, and decides to acquire rutters, instruments, and to snatch Rodrigues before the Nagasaki strike.

Returning to the castle, Blackthorne eats and recovers his composure. Fujiko appears at his door, smiling, as he maintains confidence that Toranaga will grant him leave to sail and that he can secure both the Black Ship and Mariko.