[ An interesting perspective, and one he might have agreed with, once upon a time. But Akechi has long since learned that playing the long game doesn't always ensure success, and that rather than waiting for the pieces to fall into place, he preferred to take matters into his own hands fully. ]

And lull them into a false sense of security, perhaps? Convince them you'll be cooperative and compliant?

[ Like he'd been with Shido, but it was him who was played the fool in the end. No, he won't make that mistake again. ]

Or would you be giving them ample time to understand how best to disarm you? No, I'd rather paint the targets, then allow them to paint one on me.