Hyakurin's plan to ambush Kagehisa Anotsu has failed. Rin and Manji have lost their chance for vengeance, too. Manji tells Hyakurin their alliance is over. But now, how to get through the government Sekisho checkpoints that control the roads out of Edo? It's hard enough for anyone to do it, but for Manji, one of the most wanted men in Japan, it's well- nigh impossible. Which is why Rin is writing that note to leave by Manji's pillow while he sleeps...