The second episode begins with a flashback in time of the Taikō's deathbed. All the family members and the powerful warlords under the Taikō's reign have gathered to pay their respects to the man who united Japan.
The Taikō says his goodbye to his only heir, Yaechiyo, as Yaechiyo's cunning mother/the Taikō's consort, Ochiba-no-kata, eyes the vultures surrounding her husband's deathbed. Lady Iyo, the wife of the Taikō is asking the audiences to leave, while the Taikō is asking Lord Toranaga to stay for a more private conversation.
The two talk about good old time memories, before the Taikō asks Toranaga his thoughts on becoming the sole Regent until his son comes of age. The Taikō offers Toranaga the title, if Toranaga were to protect his son.
That's where we believe that the Taikō is actually testing Toranaga, and since Toranaga is a master of the long game, he gives the Taikō a satisfying answer.
So what do you think about this scene? Please leave your opinion.
