Hiroyuki Sanada supports Ana Sawai in the lead of this TV series set in feudal Japan. The period setting and the costume design are beautiful. The action looks great as well. I'm sure the writing, directing and acting will be just as good.

Episode one
Inside there is a battle for power and on the outside lurks multiple threats.

Episode two
Five into one doesn't go but it's a necessity in order to retain balance.

Episode three
Moves are made that have dire consequences and new allegiances are formed.

Episode four
Knowledge needs to be shared if everyone is to reach there goals but it isn't easy when everyone has their own individual ambitions.

Episode five
Conflict arises in close quarters. The use of your words needs to be careful. Motivations are questioned and allegiances are tested.

Episode six
When pushed into a corner desperate measures must be taken, even if it's something that you never wanted to do. The way you were raised and the circumstances of your environment, can shape you in good and bad ways.

Episode seven
Everyone looks towards you when it comes time to make the hard decisions, and you can't please everyone. The bonds between some cause breaks between others and questions are asked as to where your heart really lies.

Episode eight
Sacrifices are made, but are they for the greater good and is it possible to make the most of those situations. Aiming to do what you always wanted to do isn't easy when time passes and environments change.

Episode nine
Stepping into the belly of the beast can be harder than stepping out of it. One plan might make sense to you but to someone else it can seem like insanity.

Episode ten - series finale
Once all is said and done did your actions provide you with the solution you needed or was the cost too high. Sometimes it's only when you take a step back and survey your surroundings do you actually see what was accomplished.

This was a great show, with so many stand out performances. Sanada and Asano will take all the plaudits but credit also has to be given to Sawai. The production and costume design was flawless.