The necessity of withholding one’s feelings and staying one’s tongue heightens the tensions throughout the series.

However, as these two opposites develop a powerful connection, their intimacy becomes a danger to them both.

Instead, it is the intimacy and openness of the conversation that makes the interaction so tantalizing.

Anna Sawai as Mariko in Shogun

When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales of power and devastate his enemies.

Once again, the characters must show restraint as they are being observed and have expectations of them.

The greatest strength of this scene is the masterful framing of each character during the conversation.

Kiku sits behind Mariko, blocking herself from both Blackthorne’s and the audience’s view.

Shogun’s Mariko and Blackthorne across each other in the Willow World

Image via FX

By removing herself from sight, Kiku allows Mariko to take center stage in the emotionally tense moment.

Shogunis available to stream on Hulu in the U.S.

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Shogun