Natsume is visited by the village's local god who is currently fading because of the lack of devotees.

Richard is determined to inaugurate a new reign with a banquet to remember, yet all is not as it seems. Anne is growing suspicious of her husband, Richard feels dissatisfied, and a mysterious figure is acting behind the scenes.

Buckingham questions his decisions after a night with Richard and a startling revelation. Meanwhile, rumors torment Richard as the protean Earl of Richmond schemes to stir up discontent.