The last stranger said, “I observed a meeting between the sōsakan-sama and Abbot Liu Yun. The sōsakan-sama offered Liu Yun money to import Chinese troops into Japan.”

Sano grudgingly admired the agents’ efficiency even as their lies condemned him. The paunchy guard had been a decoy, meant to distract him from the real spies. And he’d fallen for the trick. Such stupidity!

Yet the most damning testimony came from Interpreter Iishino and Chief Ohira. “I translated conversations between the sōsakan-sama and the Dutch ship captain,” Iishino said. “The food sent aboard by the sōsakan-sama was payment for weapons he agreed to purchase from the barbarians, the barbarians.” Iishino slid Sano a grin that was at once apologetic and sly. “And I listened outside the door during his private interview with Dr. Huygens. The sōsakan-sama proposed an alliance between himself and the Dutch. If they would help him become shōgun, he would grant them unlimited trading privileges with Japan.”

In a remote, toneless voice, Chief Ohira said, “I observed how the sōsakan-sama favors the Dutch. He treats them with unnecessary mercy and seems generally infatuated with them. I can assure you that I did my best to discourage such fraternization, but he defied my efforts.”

“Now that we have heard the evidence against you, Sōsakan Sano,” Governor Nagai said, “you may speak in your own defense, or confess to your crimes and commit seppuku to preserve your honor.”

Sano emitted a harsh, humorless laugh. “I will not confess! The evidence is false. The witnesses have twisted everything I’ve said or done. This trial is a farce!”

Nagai shook his head gravely. “Your objections are duly noted. But the evidence—presented by trustworthy witnesses—supports my own judgment of your poor character and evil motives. You have chosen the way of the traitor over the way of the warrior. Therefore I charge you with six counts of treason: running a smuggling ring; using a murder investigation to persecute Japanese citizens; conspiring with Dr. Huygens to overthrow the government; giving the Dutch captain supplies in exchange for weapons; enlisting Chinese military support through Abbot Liu Yun; and practicing Christianity.”

Treason! A samurai’s ultimate disgrace; punishable by death. Horror sickened Sano. “The charges are ridiculous and totally unfounded. I’ve been framed. I’m innocent!”