'Shōgun' on FX: Why Toda Mariko holds the key to Lord Yoshii Toranaga's power
Contains spoilers and speculations for 'Shōgun'
LOS ANGLES, CALIFORNIA: One could easily describe the previous episode of FX's 'Shōgun' as an embodiment of the Japanese spirit, showcasing a samurai's selfless sacrifice to advance his Lord's goals without hesitation.
Following Toda Hiromatsu's (Tokuma Nishioka) heartbreaking sacrifice, it's evident that Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) has devised cunning new strategies that will make him the supreme leader of Japan.
This was made clear in the last episode when Toranaga talked to Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai).
What is Lord Yoshii Toranaga's plan for Toda Mariko?
From the previous episodes of the series, it was evident that Toranaga had some big plans for Mariko, a fact that became increasingly apparent when he sent her to Osaka.
What does he think he is going to do with the intelligent Mariko? The answer lies in Mariko's close childhood bond with Ochiba-no-Kata (Fumi Nikaido), the clever mother of heir Nakamura Yaechiyo (Sen Mars).
While Toranaga's primary goal is to unite Japan, he may use this opportunity to give Ochiba a chance to resolve their differences, which can ultimately help stop the bloodshed.
What is going to happen between Ochiba-no-Kata and Toda Mariko?
The situation is far from ideal, as the once strong friendship between the two ladies has deteriorated significantly.
Mariko's father, Akechi Jinsai (Yutaka Takeuchi), was the one who assassinated Ochiba's father, Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa (Eijiro Ozaki).
Given that Ochiba is pushing to have Toranaga impeached, her actions are fueled by her desire to avenge her father.
So, it's safe to say that she won't be making things any easier for Mariko, considering their strained relationship from long ago.
Mariko, at the center of Toranaga's gamble, may find herself bearing the brunt of Ochiba's animosity towards Toranaga, a situation that could can easily shake things up in feudal Japan.
'Shōgun' trailer
