Episode 7 of "Oooku" deals with the emotional changes of the main characters. The episode begins with a transformed Arikoto. Despite his seemingly unchanged elegant exterior, he struggles with his frustration, as shown by his violent outburst in his room when Iemitsu is with Sutezo. He continues to behave generously by providing the staff with food and caring for the paralyzed Sutezo, but it is unclear whether this stems from genuine kindness or an attempt to conceal his inner turmoil.


The shogunate's Iemitsu has also evolved, and her changes are more visible to others. She appears confident and humble, offering wise advice—changes the council attributes to her motherhood. Despite her personal growth, she remains trapped in the societal expectation of producing heirs, a burden many women throughout history have had to bear.


The episode also reveals Kasuga's superficial understanding of interpersonal relationships. She chooses Sutezo due to his physical resemblance to Arikoto, ignoring the vast differences in their personalities. Sutezo's task is to father an heir, which he succeeds in when Iemitsu gives birth to a daughter. The dynamic between Iemitsu and Arikoto seems more parental than the relationship between Sutezo and Iemitsu—a certain irony, considering Sutezo is the biological father.


Sutezo's role is short-lived, as he becomes paralyzed after an accident. His misfortune allows Arikoto and Iemitsu to rekindle their relationship until the next suitable man is found.