Maybe I missed something but I’m a bit confused on some details. I knew nothing about the Shogun series coming in, but do have Japanese history knowledge if that helps.

My understanding is that Ishido wants Toranaga impeached/killed to remove his biggest rival in the bid to become Shogun. This would leave a 2v2 struggle between Ishido Sugiyama and Ohno Kagiyama. The Catholics wish to instill Kagiyama as Shogun, hence why they are funneling tons of money into his pockets. Anjin has a lot of closely guarded knowledge on the Portuguese that make him a valuable asset to both Ishido and Toranaga. Kagiyama and Ohno want him dead because he holds this knowledge and because of his Protestant faith.

What I don’t understand is why Ishido doesn’t just have Toranaga killed, given the impeachment didn’t pass, and Anjin taken prisoner. Would he not be in the best possible position at that point? His biggest rival is out of the picture and he has the info about the Portuguese with Anjin held captive. It seemed like he was already prepared to go through the power struggle without Anjin and his knowledge given how quickly he was ready to impeach Toranaga.

If these questions are answered later in the show, try to avoid spoiling as I am quite enjoying the story. But if I’ve missed these details somehow, I’d appreciate some clarification. Thanks!