'Shōgun' Episode 6 Takeaway: Toda Mariko struggles with her emotions for John Blackthorne
Contains spoilers for 'Shōgun' Episode 6 on FX
OSAKA, JAPAN: The period drama 'Shōgun' on FX has captivated viewers with its gorgeous graphics and riveting narrative.
The series, created by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks, explores the complexities of politics in feudal Japan.
Fans of John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) and Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai) were ecstatic when they both took their complex relationship to the next level by sharing an intimate moment.
However, the unexpected return of Mariko's husband, Toda Bunatro (Shinnosuke Abe), previously presumed dead, has intensified their already intricate relationship.
Buntaro voiced his dissatisfaction with Mariko's closeness to Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), who clarified that she was merely fulfilling her duties. He then advised Buntaro to maintain distance from her for the next seven days.
Lord Yoshii Toranaga asks Toda Mariko to take John Blackthorne to a brothel
In the most recent episode, the ripple effects of Blackthorne's dinner party were visible with the tension between Blackthorne and Mariko.
Determined to reclaim his ship, Blackthorne once more appeals to Toranaga, only to find that the decision remains unchanged.
In the midst of it, Toranaga sensed tension between Blackthorne and Mariko and advised Mariko not to engage in conflict with Blackthorne. Instead, he suggested that she focus on simply translating everything the pilot said
Later, he instructed Mariko to keep a professional relationship with Blackthorne and accompany him to a brothel.
Additionally, he encouraged her to stay by his side during the process in case she needed to translate what he was saying.
Toda Mariko translates Courtesan Kiku's words to John Blackthorne
Mariko is later seen negotiating with the madam of Willow World, renowned as the finest brothel in the region, arranging for a night between Blackthorne and Kiku (Yuka Kouri).
In the evening, Mariko accompanies Blackthorne to Kiku, who begins the night by providing an elegant tea with Mariko, prompting Blackthorne to express his admiration for her.
Mariko's expression hinted at her efforts to hide the pain of seeing the man she likes sharing a bed with someone else
Mariko translates Kiku's remarks, which, for some reason, capture Blackthorne's attention, who appears to have been awestruck by Mariko.
Kiku requests that Mariko give them some privacy and escorts Blackthorne with him.
Later, in the morning, Blackthorne appears; it is unclear whether he spent the night with Kiku or simply confided in her.
In the end, Kiku bids goodbye to Blackthorne and extends an invitation for him to return. However, when translated, Mariko only conveys her gratitude, omitting Kiku's invitation.
'Shōgun' Episode 6 is now streaming on Hulu.