Chihara-kai attempt to regroup after a devastating shootout. Jake, Katagiri, and Nagata pursue a tip from Samantha.
S1:E1
The Test
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 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 from Ishida.
Jake struggles to regain his footing after the botched raid, while Samantha grows increasingly desperate to find Polina. Sato feels the pressure of his elevated standing in Chihari-Kai.
While Samantha risks it all for Polina’s safe return, Sato is forced to mix business with pleasure. As Katagiri devises a plan to finally take down Tozawa, Jake is confronted by the crime boss’s men.