When Taro gives the letter to Akiyama, Akiyama explains that he feels bad that Yoshinobu died young in his rush for power and that Takeda had to kill his own son. He notes that “disloyalty is like a sickness,” and says Taro’s experience with the ronin shows that traitors are still around (64). Akiyama notes that Taro has grown, and he promotes him to a position as a messenger. Taro is thrilled and wonders if Akiyama might think of adopting him since the samurai has no sons of his own. Proud of his new position, he quickly runs into trouble with one of the other messengers when he refuses a bribe from a poor farmer. Another messenger, Yoshitoki, explains that messengers are expected to dress well but are seemingly never paid. Akiyama is happy to let them accept bribes in order to save money. The two quickly become friends, and Taro tells Yoshitoki his life story. Taro says, “Even now the name Yoshitoki carries the soft warmth of the Spring breeze to me” (69).

Two weeks after Taro’s arrival at Iida Castle, a message arrives from Takeda. Akiyama prepares to lead his soldiers into battle. Taro is disappointed when he learns that the youngest messengers, including himself, will stay at the castle.