'Shōgun' Episode 7 Takeaway: Lord Yoshii Toranaga's quest for alliance brings unexpected twists
Contains spoilers for 'Shōgun' Episode 7
OSAKA, JAPAN: The suspense surrounding FX's historical drama 'Shōgun' intensifies with each new episode. The introduction of Lord Yoshii Toranaga's half-brother (Hiroyuki Sanada) Saeki Nobutatsu (Eita Okuno), has only thickened the plot.
The show's latest episode, based on James Clavell's book of the same name, provides insight into Toranaga, who entrusts his half-brother with a crucial role in implementing Crimson Sky in Osaka.
However, Nobutatsu's startling choice only exacerbates Toranaga's already massive disaster.
So, what exactly transpired in the most recent episode
Saeki Nobutatsu reveals a startling truth to Lord Yoshii Toranaga
As was mentioned in the previous episode, Toranaga and his clan decided to use Crimson Sky against Osaka Palace.
However, their situation grew more complicated when a devastating earthquake led to the loss of many soldiers.
Consequently, they required additional men to organize an attack on Osaka, prompting Toranaga to seek assistance from his half-brother, Nobutatsu.
The brothers' tense dynamic was evident when Nobutatsu visited Toranaga, revealing the underlying sibling rivalry. Nevertheless, despite this tension, they continued to speak affectionately to one another.
However, the atmosphere shifts dramatically in the evening when Nobutatsu disparages Toranaga, recounting a childhood experience, before revealing a startling fact.
He reveals that he is there not to aid Toranaga but as the recently appointed Regent, tasked with transporting him to Osaka to face impeachment before the council of regents.
Additionally, he demands that Yoshii Nagakado (Yuki Kura), Toranaga's son, take his own life for his reckless attack on Nebara Jozen (Nobuya Shimamoto).
Lord Yoshii Toranaga surrenders himself in 'Shōgun' Episode 7
Nobutatsu's shocking revelation causes Toranaga's clan to turn on him; however, Toranaga intervenes and prevents them from taking action.
Furthermore, with Nobutatsu's army effectively blocking every road leading out of the village, Toranaga found no alternative but to listen to him.
Realizing the gravity of the situation, Toranaga requests his brother to grant him some time until the following sunset.
The following day, shocking everyone, Toranaga announces his surrender, sending shockwaves through his party.
However, the situation takes another unexpected turn as Toranaga's son dies attempting to assassinate his uncle, Nobutatsu.
Toranaga, whose hands are already full of pressing issues, will undoubtedly face a more poignant predicament as a result of these tragic occurrences.
Furthermore, Toranaga might decide to change his mind to exact revenge for Nagakado's death because he truly loved his son, as evidenced in the previous episodes.
The fact that he only removed Nagakado from commanding the cannon regiment when he made the stupid decision to kill Jozen—a relatively light punishment in comparison to the severe Japanese regulations—speaks volumes of his love for his son.
Furthermore, Nobutatsu won't remain passive about the lethal attack. In my opinion, he will attempt to act more ruthlessly and hold Torangana responsible for the attack, which could add intrigue to the plot of the upcoming episode.
It will be interesting to see, whether Toranaga truly gives up on his dream or if the sly and merciless Warlord has some tricks up his sleeve.
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.