In the fifth episode, a dog shooting competition begins, where Tokiyuki Sadamune overcomes initial difficulties to win by skillfully combining his evasion and shooting abilities. Yorishige confronts Sadamune, questioning Tokiyuki's identity but dismissing the possibility of him being a Hojo. Yorishige reveals to Tokiyuki that he has spread rumors about sightings of the Hojo clan to divert their enemies.

An elderly man passes down his principles to the young Genba. Back with Tokiyuki and the others, Sadamune informs them of a new imperial decree forcing Yorishige to cede land to Ogasawara. Yorishige rejects the idea of war and tasks Tokiyuki with recruiting Genba and stealing the imperial decree from Sadamune.

Tokiyuki and his companions travel to Kikyogahara to find Genba. The locals flee when asked about him, but Genba appears shortly after. Tokiyuki invites him to join the Elusive Warriors. Genba initially considers betraying Tokiyuki but is persuaded by Shizuku's offer of a fief.

Genba challenges Tokiyuki to participate in stealing the imperial decree. They plan their attack near the camp. Tokiyuki expresses his respect for the people of Suwa. Genba shares a story from his past as a thief. Tokiyuki eavesdrops on a conversation between Sadamune and the guards, realizing that this Sadamune is Genba in disguise.

In the camp, Genba demonstrates his disguise skills and retrieves the imperial decree. He questions Tokiyuki's trust in him. A man overhears their conversation and orders his men to inform Sadamune and carry out orders, plotting to murder Tokiyuki and Genba.