The sixth episode of ABEMA's original dating reality show "Love Power Kingdom 2" (Wednesdays at 10 PM) was released on March 18th.
The show is a dating reality show where 16 attractive men and women who "consider" themselves popular with others engage in romantic games on the beautiful island nation of Malta in the Mediterranean Sea to determine the number one most popular man and woman.
Episode 6 depicted the "last two-shot date" before the "3rd Popularity Vote." Waiting for Mariya (Nagao Mariya, 32), a former AKB48 member, model, and actress, on a cliff overlooking the sea was martial artist Taiju (Shiratori Taiju, 30). Just before this, Mariya had been on a sweet date with actor Yuto (Oku Yuto, 28), but when Taiju probed, "How was it?", she vaguely brushed him off with, "I don't know."
Afterward, Taiju presented her with his first-ever homemade chocolate pie croissant, which he had secretly baked the night before. Touched by Taiju's thoughtful surprise, Mariya smiled and said, "I'm so happy, thank you," and "This is the first time I've ever received homemade sweets."
Then, as they watch the sunset over the sea, the two are enveloped in a romantic atmosphere. Taiju gazes at Mariya and says, "Close your eyes," before kissing her. Then, Taiju slowly pushes Mariya down, and Mariya wraps her arms around Taiju's neck in a passionate embrace.
This audacious move excited Seiya of the comedy duo "Shimofuri Myojo" in the studio, who exclaimed, "No, no!" and "That's Taiju's style of play!" In an interview after the date, Taiju said, "It was the best," and confidently declared, "Even if (Yuto) becomes my rival, I have no intention of losing." On the other hand, Mariya revealed her complicated feelings, saying, "(Yuto and Taiju) are two completely different people, so their good points are different, and I feel different around them..." and "Honestly, right now... I'm conflicted." Seiya commented on the competition to win Mariya's affection, saying, "It's a showdown between Yuto and Taiju for the top spot."
