To see the previous installments, click on the following links: #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7

A servant advances carrying a tray covered with a dark cloth. The presiding judge gestures for him to uncover its contents and, as he slides the cloth aside, several porcelain cups appear, plain but finely decorated with subtly engraved crosses.

Everyone recognises the style of the ceramics; they come from the Tsutsumi kiln which is protected by the authority of the Date clan. A deputy samurai, Masaki Hayato, known for his loyalty to the administrator had ‘found’ the cups with faded crosses at Rodrigo's residence.

Although Masaki Hayato's presence seemed formal and neutral, Rodrigo could sense in his gaze the shadow of political intrigue that transcended pottery and sought to weaken the Date clan. In a deep voice, he said, “These pieces of pottery were found in the residence of the accused. The symbol is unmistakable: the cross of the religion forbidden in our domain.”

The court murmurs. One of the judges, a stern-looking old man, asks, “Rodrigo Tanaka, how do you explain the possession of these objects?”

Rodrigo feels a knot in his stomach. He recognises the design. It is the work of the Tsutsumi craftswoman, whose pieces he had seen during his visits to the kiln. But he cannot betray her, even though he understands that this bond puts him in a vulnerable position.

To be continued

Header Image:

Tsutsumi deep bowl. Source: coverchord.com