With both Hijikata’s group & the 7th Division heading to Sapporo, there is a big showdown that is bound to happen. Still, the mention that the tattoo code can’t be solved definitely leaves an interesting note. Granted, it is only a rumor. Botaro aims to look for the gold through whatever means necessary.
Still, it is quite interesting that he & Sugimoto have a similar circumstance. Family being sick to death and being the only one that wants to survive. For Sugimoto he is attaching himself to Asirpa while Botaro literally aims to be king and have a family of his own. In many ways their partnership would work well together.
This episode covered chapters 233-236 as well as the end of chapter 232. Ending before the Sapporo Arc Showdown starts is a bit clunky, but it is understandable to put the final season in a position to have solid pacing.