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'Shōgun' Episode 6 Takeaway: Toda Mariko struggles with her emotions for John Blackthorne

With the entrance of Toda Buntaro, the relationship between John Blackthorne and Toda Mariko appears to become more challenging
UPDATED MAR 27, 2024
Anna Sawai as Toda Mariko in a still from 'Shōgun' (@FX)
Anna Sawai as Toda Mariko in a still from 'Shōgun' (@FX)

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

Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Yoshii Toranaga in a still from 'Shōgun' (@FX)
Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Yoshii Toranaga in a still from 'Shōgun' (@FX)

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

Cosmo Jarvis as John Blackthorne in a still from 'Shōgun' (@FX)
Cosmo Jarvis as John Blackthorne in a still from 'Shōgun' (@FX)

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.

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