Now Sano realized that all the complications of the murder case—Spaen’s relationships with the other barbarians; Abbot Liu Yun’s history; the intricacies of Dutch-Japanese foreign affairs; even the smuggling—had been peripheral to the crime. Director Spaen had died because of one man’s basic human need for friendship, a motive that transcended cultural, political, and financial concerns. Sano pitied Iishino, with whom he felt a poignant kinship. His own background and nature had made him as much an outsider in the bakufu as Iishino. Had he cared more about the approval of others, he might have someday found himself in the same position: killing in revenge for one slight too many.

But hurt feelings didn’t justify murder; pity must not obstruct justice. Sano eased nearer to Iishino. “What happened next?”

“Spaen fell. Commander Nirin shouted. I dropped the gun and bent over Spaen.” As Iishino’s gaze turned inward, Sano could almost see the scene reflected in his eyes. “There was so much blood. He didn’t move, or answer when I called his name. I began to weep. I didn’t mean to kill him, only to hurt him as he’d hurt me!”

“Then Abbot Liu Yun was there. He said, ‘Dump Spaen in the ocean and say he escaped from Deshima.’ But Commander Nirin said, ‘If his body washes ashore, everyone will see he was shot. The murder of a barbarian will bring Edo officials to investigate. The Deshima staff will be the obvious suspects, and Governor Nagai will sacrifice us to protect himself.’ ”

“Abbot Liu Yun undressed Spaen and cut up the bullet wound with his knife. Then he began cursing and stabbing the body. He said he’d agreed to help with the smuggling so he could kill Spaen, and he was angry that someone else had beaten him to it. Commander Nirin pulled Liu Yun away and lifted Spaen into the boat. I took a crucifix that I’d planned to sell to the Christians and put it around Spaen’s neck.”

“So that if he was found, the authorities would think a Christian had killed him?” Sano asked quietly.

“No. So that my friend’s spirit would have the blessing of his god.” A sob caught in Iishino’s throat; the gun now pointed at the floor.

Soon, Sano thought. “And Peony? Why did you kill her?”