After rigorously preparing for a qualifying exam, journalist Jake Adelstein is hired as the first American crime reporter for Japan's prestigious newspaper, Meicho Shimbun, where he's quickly tasked with covering the case of a stab victim.

The high from Jake's first published piece quickly fades as he struggles to connect the two victims -- and learns that nothing comes for free.

After proving himself to Detective Katagiri, Jake learns an invaluable lesson on the relationship between the police and the yakuza before receiving an opportunity to witness it firsthand; Samantha shares her future plans with Malee.

As Samantha takes a big leap toward realising her goals, her past becomes a sudden roadblock; Jake makes major strides in connecting the cases, only to be confronted by Ishida, the head of Chihari-Kai, with an impossible ask.

After consulting with Polina, Samantha endeavours to take care of her Matsuo problem, and grows closer with Sato. Jake must decide on accepting a favour from Ishida, and Sato learns a devastating lesson in loyalty.

An impromptu Yakuza peace summit finds Tozawa at the mercy of his own actions. Samantha begins to settle her debts with Matsuo. A determined Jake chases down a tip.