In the third episode of "Oooku," viewers are immersed in the complicated and merciless world of politics as the realities of ruling a nation come to light. In this episode, Arikoto, a central figure, is confronted with a personal loss and a drastic change in his status. These events are orchestrated by Kasuga, a character shaped by a harsh past.

Kasuga comes from a family that tragically became caught in the crossfire of political maneuvers, as her relatives were on the side of a faction that betrayed Nobunaga. She witnessed the annihilation of her family and was subsequently taken in by another family, where she received a solid education. Her life took a turn when she became the nursemaid of Iemitsu. Having experienced political ruthlessness firsthand, she now plays a crucial role in manipulating the political scene.

At this point in the narrative, Japan stands on shaky ground, as the Tokugawa shogunate is not yet firmly established. This unstable situation is further exacerbated by the sudden death of the shogun. External pressures intensify the circumstances, as foreign powers seeking trade pose a potential threat to Japan, especially given the dwindling number of samurai in the country. Kasuga devises a plan to isolate Japan under religious and trade-related pretexts to shield the nation from outside scrutiny.

With the goal of retaining power and continuing the Tokugawa line, Kasuga plans the death of her son. Subsequently, she secretly installs Iemitsu’s illegitimate daughter as shogun, while a double plays the role in public.

This illegitimate daughter, Matsui Eriko, is characterized as a brash and defiant young woman who often disrespects Arikoto, especially when he does not comply with her wishes. In this episode, Arikoto experiences an extreme demotion, involuntarily losing his status, dreams, and dignity. Despite the disrespectful treatment—including being addressed by a woman’s name and enduring physical abuse—Arikoto manages to maintain his calm demeanor, even though he is visibly uncomfortable. Importantly, he intervenes to save Gyokuei, recognizing that without his interference, Gyokuei could have shared the fate of other unfortunate individuals.

Both Arikoto and Lady Iemitsu are forced into roles they did not choose. Lady Iemitsu is compelled to pose as a man to preserve tradition, while Arikoto, once an abbot who served the poor, now acts as the shogun’s consort. Lady Iemitsu’s repeated use of the term "O-Mann" may suggest her dissatisfaction with having to assume a false identity. A possible connection or mutual understanding between Lady Iemitsu and Arikoto is hinted at, particularly when Lady Iemitsu shows enough interest in Arikoto to gift him a cat.