Blackthorn's death bed scenes, meaning? (possible spoilers)
I can assume it was a basic way to point out that he eventually returned home. Noticed he was holding Mariko's crucifix, but in the show he dumps that into the water (along with the ashes the husband and son of his former consort).
Perhaps this was a way to show his change of heart in terms of staying in the country, with the bed scenes only in his mind?