In Golden Kamuy Season 4, Episode 12, the episode begins with an intense battle in a river, where Sugimoto faces off against Botaro. Sugimoto demonstrates extraordinary combat skills as he uses sturgeons to ride through the water. After a grueling fight, Sugimoto unexpectedly helps Botaro instead of delivering the finishing blow.

Following this, Sugimoto and Botaro agree to collaborate in the search for the supposed river of gold. Meanwhile, Asirpa and the others decide to continue their search for the hides with the map to the gold, believing that abandoning the search might draw attention to their newly acquired knowledge about the river of gold.

Botaro converses with Sugimoto about his and Asirpa's relationship, inquiring about the nature of their bond. Asirpa, who is listening, does not engage with Botaro's speculations, despite having previously expressed her commitment to her people's cause.

The episode takes an unexpected turn as it transitions into a scene where Usami and Kikuta participate in an unconventional competition to gather information about a murder case. This comical and bizarre segment concludes with Kikuta obtaining unique information about the suspect.

The scene shifts to Hijikata's group, who attempt to blend in while in a town. However, their unusual behavior and appearance make them stand out. Kikuta, who is among them, encounters Ariko. Kikuta suggests that Ariko become a triple agent for the government, but Ariko remains skeptical.

Toward the end of the episode, a kidnapping subplot emerges. The kidnapper is revealed to be the Candy-Man, a character who had appeared in earlier episodes. It is disclosed that he is on his way to Sapporo.