Hired as Meicho Shimbun's first American crime reporter, Jake Adelstein is quickly tasked with covering two cases that initially appear unrelated, but soon stakes his career - and life - on connecting the dots.

As crime boss Tozawa dangerously toes the line between territories, the rival Chihara-Kai scramble to collect dues. Samantha protects another hostess, while Jake witnesses a confrontation that changes everything.

Jake's persistence pays off when he receives an exclusive from Detective Katagiri - but catches the less ideal eye of someone else in the process. Meanwhile, Samantha hits it off with a new customer, as Sato chooses between words and fists.

As Samantha makes strides toward the future, her past catches up. With help from Emi, Tin-Tin, and Trendy, Jake has a breakthrough in connecting the cases - and comes face-to-face with the head of Chihari-Kai, who requires a favor.

When Jake helps reveal the mole in Chihara-Kai, he must weigh the risks of accepting a favor in return from Ishida. Samantha attempts to take care of her Matsuo problem. Sato's recruitment ends with a devasting 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 from Ishida.