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'Shōgun' Episode 3 Sneak Peek: John Blackthorne makes surprising deal with Yoshii Toranaga

Created by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks, the ongoing historical drama 'Shōgun' is based on the novel of the same name by James Clavell

Spoilers for 'Shōgun' episode 3

OSAKA, JAPAN: The complex realm of mediaeval Japan is rich in tales of courageous samurais, which also serves as the backdrop for the ongoing drama 'Shōgun'.

The visually stunning series, which debuted its first two episodes on February 27, is based on James Clavell's book of the same name.

John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) was unknowingly thrust into Japan's political maelstrom in the first two episodes of the series.

At the end of the second episode, it also came to light that his life is in fact in danger as an assassination attempt was made on his life, but he avoided it thanks to Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada).

John Blackthorne protects Yoshii Toranaga from being captured

The third episode clearly demonstrates that Blackthorne, who is now aware of the imminent hazards to his life, intends to play his cards carefully in order to survive in the complex web of politics. 

The man, who found out about Toranaga's scheme to flee from Oska in covert form, intended to support him since if the truth about Toranaga's plan comes out, he will also suffer repercussions. 

Aware of the threat, Blackthorne becomes agitated and prevents the guards from entering the palquin, where Toranaga was disguised as his wife. 

The man frequently lashes out at guards and speaks about women's piety, claiming that they deserve privacy. 

In the end, his method works, and the travelling group successfully escapes the palace.

Yoshii Toranaga discovers John Blackthorne's true identity in 'Shōgun' Episode 3

As the travelling group marches towards their destination, the travelling party is abruptly assaulted by Lord Kiyama's (Hiromoto Ida) troops, who wish to kill Blackthorne. 

Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai), Kashigi Yabushige (Tadanobu Asano), Toranaga, and Blackthorne, however, are able to flee the mayhem and board a galley. 

However, Blackthorne notices additional guys preparing to ambush them in fishing boats. Working quickly on his wit, he suggests that Toranaga utilise the Portuguese ship Black Ship, which can easily smash the fishing boats. 

Later on, Blackthorne finds out that the ship's captain declines to let him travel with them, a condition accepted by Toranaga as well.

However, Blackthorne does not give up hope and manages to survive the fishing boats and rocks before rejoining the Black Ship. 

Toranaga informs Blackthorne the following morning that he knows his actual identity as a pirate and asks him to teach his men western combat skills.

Initially hesitant, the man accepts the offer in exchange for his ship and crew.

The series premiered with its first two episodes on February 27, 2024, on Hulu and FX. The subsequent episodes are scheduled to be released weekly.