Why does John Blackthorne have a consort in Shogun episode 4? After his promotion as Lord Toranaga's hatamoto, Blackthorne's allegiance and position come bearing gifts thanks to his strength and knowledge.
That said, why was Lady Fuji, of all ladies, chosen to be Blackthorne's consort? Here's all you need to know.
CONTENT SPOILERS: This article contains spoilers for FX's Shogun, so proceed with caution.
Why Does John Blackthorne Have a Consort in Shogun Episode 4?
According to Lady Mariko, who is dedicated to serving Lord Toranaga and his wishes, Lady Fuji is the most suitable as Blackthorne's consort.
Given that Lady Fuji remained under Toranaga's clan, she must heed his orders.
"Lord Toranaga has given the Anjin the title he felt was appropriate," Lady Mariko tells Lady Fuji, "As hatamoto, the Anjin needs a consort."
Unfortunately, Lady Fuji doesn't see the bright side of serving a "barbarian" such as Blackthorne himself, especially considering that she was still suffering after having witnessed the recent death of her husband and child.
When Lady Fuji asks why she must be responsible for the Englishman, Lady Mariko explains this later in the episode by saying, "It gives her a place," while still continuing to serve Toranaga.
As a part of Lord Toranaga's agreement with Blackthorne, Lady Fuji's role as the white samurai's consort is also only for a limited amount of time.
Even though Toranaga says that Lady Fuji's role as consort should only last a year, the latter decided that it should only be for six months, which both parties appeared to have agreed on.
From then on, Lady Mariko has been leading Lady Fuji in her role to comfort Blackthorne.
RELATED: Shogun: What Were Blackthorne's Cannons Used For in the Series?
Who Was the Courtesan Who Snuck Into Blackthorne's Room?
Nearing the end of the episode, a mysterious woman enters after Lady Fuji leaves Blackthorne's room. While startled, the Englishman seems to know who the woman is without needing the light.
However, the episode doesn't explicitly confirm the identity of the courtesan, other than the fact it is not Lady Fuji.
For one thing, Lady Fuji was wearing a different robe when she came in and left Blackthorne's room for the night. The silhouette nearly makes it obvious that it was Lady Mariko who accompanied the white samurai.
Despite this being obvious, though, Lady Mariko seemingly lied by claiming she had sent a different courtesan to his room.
Although Blackthorne is well aware of it, all he said was, "It was a very thoughtful gift," after which Lady Mariko is seen smiling as they spend time in the rain.
Meanwhile, Shōgun episode 5 titled Broken to the Fist premieres on March 19 on Hulu.
READ NEXT: Shōgun: Do John Blackthorne and Lady Mariko End Up Together? Forbidden Romance Explained
Follow our official Facebook page for more news coverage and other explainer articles! Check out more right here on Epicstream.