The Eightfold Fence In Ajiro, Toranaga inspects Yabushige's army before departing for Edo. Meanwhile, Mariko informs Blackthorne of his crew's presence in Edo and their allegiance to Toranaga. In exchange for training Yabushige's army, Blackthorne is offered a home, a good salary, and Usami Fuji as his consort. Yabushige's nephew, Kashigi Omi, proposes offering confiscated weapons to Ishido in Toranaga's absence. However, Ishido's retainer, Nebara Jozen, advises Yabushige to return to Osaka and pledge loyalty to the remaining regents. Aware of the consequences, Yabushige invites Jozen to witness a cannon demonstration. During dinner, Blackthorne gifts Fuji a gun, and Mariko secretly spends the night with Blackthorne. The next day, Nagakado uses cannons to kill Jozen and his retinue, despite Yabushige's objections. Upon returning to Ajiro, Toranaga and his crew receive a warm welcome from the villagers. Blackthorne's arrival as a Hatamoto sparks curiosity, and his new role involves training Toranaga's men in Western warfare, particularly with cannons. Conflict arises when Ishido's envoy is rejected by Yabushige, leading to a confrontation. Nagakado intervenes, using cannons to eliminate Jozen and his men, despite Yabushige's attempts to intervene. Amidst the turmoil, Blackthorne's relationship with Mariko deepens, with her presenting him with her late father's swords as a gesture of acceptance.