Japan's in a L'Oda Trouble - Let's Play Nobunaga's Ambition Sphere of Influence(Oda)

Viper of Mino - Poems and Motonari Mori’s Schemes - Update 9


A simple and small update. We learn a bit about the history of Japan’s schooling as well as the poems to live life by, and see Motonari aging and becoming even more of a schemer.

After Tadayoshi Shimazu became a monk, he changed his name to Jisshinsai Shimazu. Praised as “The Sacred Ruler of Satsuma”, Jisshinsai was said to be both wise and virtuous. Additionally, he was als famous for teaching that same wisdom and virtue equally to his followers.

Jisshinsai Shimazu:
“Even if you hear the teachings of the past and recite them, they are worthless if you do not incorporate them into your actions.”

Takahisa Shimazu:
Indeed.

Jisshinsai Shimazu:
“No matter whether you live in an ornate mansion or a straw hut, a person’s virtue is determined by what is in their heart.”

Takahisa Shimazu:
I see.

Jisshinsai Shimazu:
“Can we rely on such a fleeting thing as ‘tomorrow’? ‘Today’ is when your studies must be done.”

Takahisa Shimazu:
I agree completely.

Jisshinsai Shimazu:
…Do you really understand what I’m saying? I can’t tell with such halfhearted responses.

Takahisa Shimazu:
Sorry, I’m a man of few words. I may not even live up to the hair on your feet, but these poems you wrote are easy to understand even for me. You are truly a wonderful teacher, Father.

Jisshinsai Shimazu:
Well, I thought it would be good for you to learn some things. Studying isn’t only for monks you know. Someday, all the people of Satsuma must study and nourish their minds.

Takahisa Shimazu:
“Even if you think yourself to be unskilled, do not slack off. Your training is the proverbial ‘journey of a thousand miles’.” Well said.

Jisshinsai Shimazu:
“Before you legislate, educate. Punishing someone who is ignorant of their crime…is not a vrtuous path.”

Takahisa Shimazu:
I shall carve that into my very being.

There are forty-seven “Iroha Poems” that Jisshinsai wrote, one for each of the characters of the Japanese syllabary. Each poem starts with a different character. Jisshinsai’s poems expound a sort of model for warriors to follow in their daily lives, based on his wisdom. The Iroha Poems would go on to serve as the foundation for Satsuma’s Goju education system. Later, during the Meiji Restoration, they would also contribute greatly to the education of the people of Satsuma.

The Kobayakawa clan of the Sanyo region boasted a powerful navy. The clan had weakened in recent years as a result of a series of deaths of the clan heads, but Motonari Mori and Yoshitaka Ouchi had begun a maneuver to restore the Kobayakawa clan to its former glory. With support from Yoshitaka, Motonari’s third son, Takakage, changed his name and became the next head of the Kobayakawa clan.

Motonari Mori:
I didn’t expect Yoshitaka to come out so strongly in support of you, I guess it was worth leaving you in his care after all.

Takakage Kobayakawa:
Yes… We must use whatever methods we have available to us.

Motonari Mori:
Indeed. Your talents as a leader are unmatched by both Takamoto and Motoharu. I’m entrusting the Kobayakawa clan to you because I have faith in you. Do you get my meaning? Do not disappoint me.

Takakage Kobayakawa:
Heh… Leave it to me. I wll use the power of the Kobayakawa clan to the fullest in supporting the Mori clan.

Motonari Mori:
Also…

Takakage Kobayakawa:
Yes?

Motonari Mori:
Be careful of flattery. Don’t let our enemies win you over.

Takakage Kobayakawa:
…Understood.

The Kobayakawa clan was in possession of a powerful navy, and gaining control of this held great meaning for the Mori clan. And so, Takakage Mori changed his name to Takakage Kobayakawa, and was put in charge of expanding Mori influence n the Sanyo region.

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Viper of Mino - The Date Clan Civil Wars and Kipposhi and Takechiyo Meet - Update 10


In this update we get a glimpse at the Date clan to the northeast and their squabbling and plans among themselves. As well Nobuhide Oda takes the Matsudaira heir hostage and two finally meet, Kipposhi(Nobunaga Oda) and Takechiyo(Ieyasu Tokugawa).

Build Suemori Castle Completed!

Tanemune Date was the fourteenth head of the Date clan. He aggressively expanded his territory through marriages, his rule extended even to Oshu and Ushu. Nearly all the daimyos of Oshu were involved in this extended family called a “den” that Tanemune had created. Tanemune was also planning to send his third son, Sanemoto, to the representative of Echigo, Sadazane Uesugi, as a foster child. This would allow him to expand his domain even further. But before he could do that…

Soldier:
Lord Tanemune! Lay down your weapon and do as we say!

Tanemune Date:
Are you Harumune’s men?

Harumune Date:
Why, yes they are! Don’t struggle, Father.

Tanemune Date:
You dolt… I don’t understand what this is all about.

Harumune Date:
If I let you have your way, everyone in Japan would be our relatives. It makes it so hard to do anything.

Tanemune had been clashing with his heir, Harumune, about their territory. Harumune strongly opposed his father’s plans to send Date troops to Echigo, and imprisoned Tanemune. But a few days later…

Soldier:
Lord Harumune! I have an urgent report.

Harumune Date:
What? Did my father escape or something?

Soldier:
Er… Yes. Exactly that. Lord Tanemune has entered Marumor Castle and is gathering troops as we speak.

Harumune Date:
Well, I kind of expected this to happen. It wouldn’t be fun otherwise. Now that it’s come to this, I have no choice but to strike down my father. I’ll show the world a war that engulfs both Oshu and Ushu!

Harumune was proactive in everything he did, even going so far as to attack the marriage procession of Lady Kubo, famed for her beauty, in order to make her his own wife. Conflict between Harumune and his father Tanemune, who had an insatiable greed for power, was inevitable. On Tanemune’s side were the powerful daimyos of the Ashina clan. The conflict in the Date clan came to be known as the Tenbun War, and would come to spread across all of Oshu.

Hirotada Matsudaira, a minor daimyo ruling over Mikawa, was under the protection of Yoshmoto Imagawa, the daimyo of Suruga. As proof of his loyalty to Yoshimooto, Hirotada sent his eldest son and heir, Takechiyo, to the Imagawa clan. However, on his way to Yoshimoto, an unforseen disaster befell Takechiyo.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
What happened to Hirotada’s son?

Sessai Taigen:
It appears someone betrayed us and handed him over to Nobuhide Oda.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
Do they have no shame? Yet, perhaps it was our fault for putting him in the hands of people we could not trust.

Sessai Taigen:
The power of money is strong, milord. The reports say the men sold Takechiyo to Nobuhide.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
Money… So that’s how Nobuhide operates.

Sessai Taigen:
Indeed. Therefore, we must use our own methods. I vow to bring back Takechiyo personally.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
Nobuhide better watch out now that he’s angered my master.

Sessai Taigen:
II am a servant of the Buddha. It is my duty to root out evil. I will show Nobuhide that the world has not fallen so low as to overlook those who would sell a child to their enemy, not even for a sack of gold.

Yoshimoto imagawa:
I don’t know who I’m scared of more: the demons in hell or you.

Nobuhide’s unorthodox plan to steal Takechiyo Matsudaira away by buying out the warriors guarding him ended in success. However, taking Takechiyo as a hostage was not enough to make Hirotada Matsudaira bow to the Oda clan.

Masahide Hirate:
To think that Hirotada would be this stubborn…

Nobuhide Oda:
I can scarcely believe it myself… I suppose his Mikawa warrior dutifulness won’t allow him to betray Yoshimoto.

Masahide Hirate:
What will we do with his son, my lord?

Nobuhide Oda:
Take care of the child. We’ll be able to make use of him someday. Yoshimoto will likely come back for the boy. Put Nobuhiro in Ansho.

Masahide Hirate:
Lord Nobuhiro, my lord…?

Nobuhide Oda:
He should be able to handle defending Ansho. And Ii can’t imagine him taking Mikawa. Kipposhi, however, might have a chance…

Masahide Hirate:
When will we change the Young Master’s name, my lord?

Nobuhide Oda:
When his marriage has been settled. Masahide, move negotiations along with the viper.

Masahide Hirate:
We will have to give up Ogaki…is that permissible, my lord?

Nobuhide Oda:
Give it to them. Because Kipposhi… No, Nobunaga will take it right back.

To The Next Generation(Quest)

Nobuhiro Oda protects Ansho Castle for one year.
Bring Saito Clan’s trust to 100 in a year.

The heir to the Oda clan, Kipposhi (Later known as Nobunaga Oda), was called “The Fool of Owari” from his eccentric behavior. After another day of playing with the other kids in town, Kipposhi returned home to find an unfamiliar child in the garden.

Kipposhi:
Hey. I haven’t seen you around here. What’s your name?

Takechiyoo:
Um, my name is Takechiyo.

Takechiyo Matsudaira would later be known as Ieyasu Tokugawa. At this point in time, he was a hostage of the Oda clan thanks to a plot by Nobuhide Oda.

KIpposhi:
So, you’re the heir to the Matsudaira clan. Do you know who I am?

Takechiyo:
Yes. You are Kipposhi, if I’m not mistaken.

Kipposhi:
Oh, so you already knew. That’s boring.

Takechiyo:
(I can’t say I knew he was the Fool of Owari because of how dopey he looked…)

Kipposhi:
I like you, you’ve got some guts. I think I’ll make you my vassal from now on. Tomorrow, I command you to join me for swimming and horse riding practice.

Takechiyo:
I will gladly join you for practice, but I must decline your offer of vassalage.’

Kipposhi:
Oh? Why is that? Do you also have your pride as leader of a country?

Takechiyo:
No, it’s just that I have a number of followers already. If I became your vassal, I would have to request a stipend from you for them. I didn’t want to cause that sort of trouble for you.

Kipposhi:
…Ha ha ha ha ha! I see, you were already thinking about money. You’re pretty stingy.

Takechiyo:
A-Am I…?

Kipposhi:
But, while I have the deepest consideration for my vassals, I can also handle vulgar topics like money. One who cannot do that is unfit to be a lord!

Takechiyo:
(Huh… It seems like he’s more than just a fool.)

Kipposhi:
It’s difficult to admit, but I don’t have money to give you right now. I suppose I’ll have to give up on making you my vassal.

Takechiyo:
(Phew…)

Kipposhi:
But as soon as the day comes when I have money to give you and your vassals, I will have you obey me… Obey my world.

Takechiyo:
What do you mean?

Kipposhi:
Until then, we are friends! Tomorrow, head to the river at sunrise. Don’t forget!

Takechiyo:
…What an overwhelming personality, to say the least. But, he’s kind of fun to be around. A friend, huh… That might be the first tme I’ve heard that word.

Takechiyo – Ieyasu Tokugawa – would spend the next few years in the Oda clan. Though he was a hostage, he had no strict rules placed upon him and could live freely. This period of Ieyasu’s life greatly influenced his development.

Characters introduced

Kipposhi

Kipposhi Profile

Takechiyo

Takechiyo Profile

Tanemune Date

Tanemune Date Profile

Harumune Date

Harumune Date Profile

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Viper of Mino - Nobunaga’s Marriage and 2nd Battle of Azukizaka - Update 11


In this update a marriage is set up between Dosan Saito’s daughter Kicho and Nobunaga Oda. Takechiyo is wanted badly by the Imagawa, while Nobuhide begins to question his own actions. The character list has been updated as well I have added a map of the regions of Japan duriing the Sengoku period.

Saito clan trust level 100 reached!

Sandwiched between the Saito clan to the north and the Imagawa clan to the south, Nobuhide Oda resolved to make peace with the Saito clan. The peace talks ended in success. As a result, Dosan Saito’s daughter, Kicho, and Nobuhide’s son, Nobunaga, were bound in marriage.

Dosan Saito:
This marriage has brought us into alliance with the Oda clan. Would like to believe it would be of use to us, but rumors say Nobunaga is quite the fool. Kicho! If Nobunaga proves to truly be a useless fool…use this blade to kll him. When you do, I will gather the men and take Owari.

Kicho:
Yes Father. However if he is no fool…thiis blade may end up killing you instead.

Nobunaga Oda:
So, Princess of Mino, what did the Viper tell you?

Kicho:
…To support you my Lord.

Nobunaga Oda:
Support me? Not in fact to kill me? If you don’t kill me now, Mino will eventually be mine. Lady No, can you accept that?

Kicho:
…If I choose to kill you, it will be because I realized you are too much of a fool to take even the land of Mno.

Nobunaga Oda:
Heh…is that so…

Ansho castle defended for one year!

To the Next Generation(Quest)

Completed!

Though the Matsudaira clan saw a crushing period of decline after losing their leader, Kiyoyasu Matsudaira at the Tragedy at Moriyama, they were met with another blow. Kiyomasa’s heir and the current leader of the clan, Hirotada, fell at the hands of a retainer as well.

Sessai Taigen:
With this battle we mourn Sir Hirotada, and we take back his son!

Sessai Taigen of the Imagawa clan overcame the danger of having an absent head of the Matsudaira clan to his people’s advantage by fighting in remembrance of Hirotada. Though it’s soldiers fought bravely, Ansho Castle could not stand against the high morale of the Mikawa soldiers and the deft leadership of Sessai.

Masahide Hirate:
Lord Nobuhide, forgive me. If only had arrived in time with reinforcements…!

Nobuhide Oda:
Don’t blame yourself, Masahide. With that monk on the field, there was nothing we could have done. Yet, that blasted Nobuhiro went and got himself captured… Now that was something I hadn’t expect.

Masahide Hirate:
Must we return Takechiyo, my lord?

Nobuhide Oda:
We must… And Takechiyo will then go on to become the leader of Mikawa. The young Takechiyo will be nothing but a puppet to Yoshimoto and Sessai, making Mikawa…all theirs…

Masahide Hirate:
Lord Nobuhide…

The day of Takechiyo’s return, Oda’s central base…

Nobunaga Oda:
Father should have just left Nobuhiro to rot. You’re far more useful, Takechiyo.

Takechiyo:
Lord Nobunaga, I believe people can hear you…

Nobunaga Oda:
Takechiyo, do you want to go back to the Imagawa?

Takechiyo:
Though I don’t wish to go back to the Imagawa, I do wish to return to Mikawa.

Nobunaga Oda:
And why is that?

Takechiyo:
There are retainers of mine waiting for my return.

Nobunaga Oda:
There you go about retainers again… Do you not wish to stay here with the Oda, to aim for conquest at my side?

Takechiyo:
I can aim for conquest with you, Lord Nobunaga, even from Mikawa.

Nobunaga Oda:
Should you return to Mikawa, you’ll be sworn to Yoshimoto. Are you going too defeat him, now, and embark on a national conquest? Now that I’d like to see.

Takechiyo:
!..

Nobunaga Oda:
That was a mere jest. But know this, Takechiyo – do not say that which you cannot do.

Takechiyo:
It is not something I cannot do! Once Mikawa has gained its independence, I’ll come to your aid, Lord Nobunaga – I swear it!

Nobunaga Oda:
Heh… Well, don’t forget those words.

A few days later, at Nobuhide Oda’s residence.

Nobuhide Oda:
I chose the wrong opponent to focus on… Blast, I knew I should have taken over Owari first. It seems the power of coin is not enough… Now, if only my life would hold… No, it matters not. Should my time run out, Nobunaga will remain. That boy has a talent and a destiny I can’t even begin to fathom. He will take all of Owari as his own; of that I am certain. All I must do, then, is lay the foundation for his conquest.

Taking back the head of the Matsudaira clan allowed the Imagawa to exercise full control over the lands of Mikawa. And Nobuhide, without all of Owari under his control, could do little but struggle before the immense power difference of power between him and the Imagawa.

The Muromachi shogunate, which had endured for more than 200 years, was losing its authority. The 20th shogun, Yoshiharu Ashikaga, was stuck in a deadlock war with Chancellor Harumoto Hosokawa. On his son Yoshiteru’s 11th birthday, Yoshiharu made a decision.

Yoshiharu Ashikaga:
Yoshiteru, do you know what happened on my 11th birthday?

Yoshiteru Ashikaga:
I have heard that was the day you became shogun.

Yoshiharu Ashikaga:
Indeed. I intend to make that a custom of the house of the shogun. Yoshiteru, from today forth you are now shogun. Command the nation as you see fit.

Yoshiteru Ashikaga:
Yes, Father!

The Ashikaga clan, the house fo the shogun, had little power left, but rebellions were common n the Hosokawa clan with whom they were currently engaged, and the Kinai region was in complete disarray. Yoshiteru had spent his childhood alternately fleeing from and returning to the capital. Later, he would become a disciple of master swordsman Bokuden Tsukahara and grow to be the “Swordmaster Shogun”, working tirelessly to restore power to the shogunate.

We get a glimpse at the work of Saka Yamashina. She makes for an excellent diplomat and has been traveling in the regions surrounding Owari making peace with thse who would see the Oda clan as friends.

Characters Introduced

Kicho

Kicho Profile

Yoshiharu Ashikaga

Yoshiharu Ashikaga Profile

Yoshiteru Ashikaga

Yoshiteru Ashikaga Profile

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The Struggle For Power - Nobuhide’s Death - Update 12


This update is a rather sad one. The Oda clan loses Nobuhide to sudden sickness.

Succumbing to sickness, Nobuhide Oda, the head of the Oda clan, realized that his time had come.

Nobuhide Oda:
And so, it is disease that claims me… To think that my life would end so quickly…

Masahide Hirate:
Lord Nobuhide, Lord Nobunaga would like to–

Nobuhide Oda:
Keep him out. We can’t let him catch this too. Let him know, Masahide. Let him know that this is how delicate the human animal is. Tell him not to follow my path, not to be tied down by the old ways…

And so Nobuhide Oda, the Tiger of Owari, passed away, leaving his son Nobunaga to take the reins of the Oda clan.

And then, on the day of the funeral…

Masahide Hirate:
Where…where is the Young Master?

Soldier:
My lord, everyone is searching for him as hard as they can, but…

Masahide Hirat:
What does he think he’s doing on such an important day?!

Ultimately, Nobuhide’s funeral began in Nobunaga’s absence.

Katsuie Shibata:
Sir Hirate, can the men really not find Lord Nobunaga?

Masahide Hirate:
Forgive me, sir Shibata. The responsibility all lies with me…

Katsuie Shibata:
Just where in the world could he be…? Well, Lord Nobukatsu, if you would burn the incense–

Nobunaga Oda:

Masahide Hirate:
Y-Young Master…! What on earth are you wearing…?!

Nobunaga Oda:

Masahide Hirate:
Young Master! Please, wait!

Nobunaga Oda:
(Father… You were the only one who loved me, who knew me. And I knew you were the only one of this pack who wasn’t a fool. Yet, to see you die so early in life… To think that a man of your caliber could fall so easily… Everyone dies. Everyone lives, simply waiting for death. And if that’s so…!)

Masahide Hirate:
Young Master!

Nobunaga Oda:
Death awaits us all… May tales of my life…be passed on…

Nobunaga snatched the incense and threw it at Nobuhide’s tablet as hard as he could before dashing off without a word.

Masahide Hirate:
Young…Master…

Katsuie Shibata:

Nobunaga’s younger brother Nobukatsu, however, went through the funeral a perfect picture of composure. Seeing the stark contrast between the two brothers, Nobukatsu’s supporters gave up on Nobunaga and seceded. Adding insult to injury, a few other retainers, concerned for their clan’s prospect for a future, defected to the Imagawa, bringing the Oda on the verge of collapse.

Nagoya Castle, Owari. The night after Nobunaga ran out of Nobuhide’s funeral.

Kicho:
…Who goes there?

Nobunaga Oda:

Kicho:
Lord Nobunaga… What brings you here at such a later hour?

Nobunaga Oda:
No…

Kicho:
Yes, my lord?

Nobunaga Oda:
Do you think a fool is unworthy to lead?

Kicho:
Yes, my lord. None will bow to a fool.

Nobunaga Oda:
Do you think a fool cannot conquer Owari?

Kicho:
Yes, my lord. A fool cannot win in battle.

Nobunaga Oda:
…Do you think I am a fool?

Kicho:
No.

Nobunaga Oda:
Don’t lie to me. All of our retainers and even the people in town call me a fool.

Kicho:
Lord Nobunaga, are you not the Fool of Owari?

Nobunaga Oda:
…Now you’re calling me a fool.

Kicho:
Everyone does, my lord, but I do not think you are a fool. You are the Fool, with a capital F. I feel that a fool of that level can do that which neither the wise nor the foolish can.

Nobunaga Oda:

Kicho:
Your fool’s act Lord Nobunaga, has a reason behind it. Did you not also have your reasons for what you did at your father’s funeral?

Nobunaga Oda:
Enough. I was just feeling sorry for myself. Forget I said anything.

Kicho:
Very well. I’ll forget, too, the puffiness of my lord’s weepy face and how he spoke with a voice high enough to be the envy of any maiden.

Nobunaga Oda:
Gah… You won’t see me cry again! From now on, No, all you’ll see from me is unyielding resolve and a face of pure courage.

Kicho:
Haha… When father was alone with me, he would show the same side of himself. Their faces are different, yet so very similar. He’s strong…but I still have to take care of him. Oh, what am I saying? Am I not a woman of Mino, daughter of Dosan…?

The 20th year of Tenmon, 1551. Suemori Castle, Owari. The leader of the Oda clan, Nobuhide Oda, who called this castle home, suddenly passed away due to illness. His dying words left his heir, Nobunaga, as the new lord of the clan.

Masahide Hirate:
Young Master! Do wait, Young Master!

Nobunaga Oda:
What do you want, gramps? I’ve already paid my respects, if that’s what you’re after.

Masahide Oda:
One could hardly call that “paying your respects!” To think you would throw incense at Lord Nobuhide’s tablet like that… Such unruliness from the future lord of the Oda clan is a poor example for our retainers!

Nobunaga Oda:

Masahide Hirate:
And furthermore, I hear others say your brother Lord Nobukatsu was a picture of etiquette. This will only strengthen Lord Nobukatsu’s supporters even further. Please bear that in mind, Young Master! If you simply continue to accept the name of “The Fool of Owari”, then as the leader of the Oda clan…

Nobunaga Oda:
Hmph. The Fool of Owari, you say… Not bad.

Masahide Hrate:
Young Master!

Nobunaga Oda:
As lord of this clan, I won’t be held back by petty etiquette and worthless traditions. I’ll be on my way, gramps. There’s things other than this funeral I’ve got to do.

Masahide Hirate:
Please, wait, young master! Did I bring him up the wrong way? Just what is to become of the Oda, or Owari…?

Clan Unification(Quest)

Nobunaga Oda took the reins of the clan once his father passed away. He first sought to complete Nobuhide’s work of uniting Owari.

Capture Kiyosu Castle. Capture Inuyama Castle.

Characters Introduced

Katsuie Shibata

Katsuie Shibata Profile

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The Struggle For Power - Sessai’s Death, the Triple Alliance, and Uniting Owari - Update 13


Nobunaga works on uniting all of Owari under his rule, during this time the Imagawa, Takeda, and Hojo begin the Triple Alliance to prepare each of them for their future expansions. Something to maybe bring up such as with Sessai and Nobuhide dying. While their stories are told romantically do not forget these are pretty horrible people who did absolutely monstrous things. If you feel bad for Yoshimoto losing his best friend and mentor keep in mind Yoshimoto in real life had children crucified and forced to commit suicide. Just try to keep this all in mind as we see these beatufiul stories that pretty much everyone involved is a bastard.

Nobunaga Oda defeated Nobutomo Oda and captured Kiyosu Castle.

Nobunaga Oda:
Father always had a soft spot for this castle…and I can see why. This town is apt for commerce. I claim this castle as my own. Move the warriors and merchants – move everyone from Nagoya over here.

Though not ideal for defense, Kiyosu Castle saw a lot of traffic, making the expansion of commerce in the town promising. From this day forth, it would expand as the center of Owari.

The Imagawa Clan of Suruga. Yoshimoto Imagawa, said to be the “greatest warrior of Tokai”, controlled a vast territory and had an army large enough to back it up. Geographically, Yoshimoto was not too far from the capital either. It would not be an exaggeration to say that he was the daimyo that was closest to ruling the nation. However, what was stopping the Imagawa clan from marching to the capital was not the countries that lay between them, but rather the two major armies from in the opposite direction.

Yoshimoto’s late wife had descended from the Takeda clan of Kai. However Nobutora, the head of the Takeda clan and the one who had suggested the marriage alliance, was presently being challenged for control of the clan by the current heir, Harunobu.

Furthermore, although Yoshimoto had married his daughter into the Hojo clan of Sagami, the Imagawa’s alliance with the Takeda clan had reignited a border dispute between the Imagawa and Hojo. The head of the Hojo clan, Ujiyasu, had pulled off a skillful surprise attack that allowed him to survive an attack on Kawagoe Castle, which Yoshimoto had secretly planned. Additionally, Ujiyasu had been showing signs of expanding his army.

In order to pave the way to the capital for the Imagawa clan, Sessai Taigen, one of Yoshimoto’s chief retainers, had been negotiating with the leaders of the Takeda and Hojo behind the scenes.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
An alliance between all three countries?

Sessai Taigen:
Indeed. With just a bit more time, my plan should be a success and we will be able to march to the capital unhindered.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
Splendid. What is it that you ask of me, then?

Sessai Taigen:
A meeting, Lord.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
Oh? With whom?

Sessai Taigen:
I would like you to meet with Harunobu Takeda and Ujiyasu Hojo at Zentokuji and speak frankly about your intentions.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
I see… This plan is daring, yet intriguing. I knew I could count on you.

And so, the legendary alliance between the three clans was decided at Zentokuji. The Imagawa, Takeda, and Hojo clans formed marriage alliances with each other, and at last each clan could focus on expanding their own territory to the west, north, and east, respectively.

Sessai Taigen. A Zen priest at Kyoto, he was called to Suruga to take the position of young Yoshimoto’s instructor. Since then, he had continued to support Yoshimoto in public and in private. The efforts of the two had brought the Imagawa clan up to being one of the largest forces in the nation.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
Heh… Master Sessai, your good karma is still lacking. Should you die here, you will reincarnate in hell. Take the time to recover, master.

Sessai Taigen:
Lord Yoshimoto… I am the one who serves the Buddha. I can tell how much time I have left.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:

Sessai Taigen:
Yet, I have no regrets. Because, Lord Yoshimoto, your road to conquest has been opened.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
The Triple Alliance… Leaving such a thing behind certainly shows your masterly love.

Sessai Taigen:
It is but a trifling token of my gratitude, my lord. This time I have spent with you…it was very enjoyable. I was able to use my techniques on the battlefield to their fullest because of you, Lord Yoshimoto. Meeting you was a true blessing. And because I received such a blessing in this life, my next destination…can only be hell.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
THen… Then wait for me in hell, master. I will go on to take the nation. And on that road, the sin I shall bear will be immense.

Sessai Taigen:
Then, my lord… Allow me to make our preparations to fight with hell’s ogres. Lord Yoshimoto… Take the nation, no matter the cost…

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
I will, master. I won’t let your efforts go to waste. Now, you need only sleep.

The Imagawa clan had been held up by the works of Yoshimoto and Sessai. And without Sessa at his side, Yoshimoto had to carry the entire Imagawa on both of his shoulders. That fact cast a faint, yet all too dark shadow upon the clan’s future.

Characters Introduced

Ujiyasu Hojo

Ujiyasu Hojo Profile

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The Struggle For Power - Motonari’s Plans for the Kikkawa, and the Imagawa March on the Oda - Update 14


Welcome to Update 14. This is yet another short update that sets up more for the future conquest of the Mori clan under Motonari Mori. Of greater importance is the plan of Yoshimoto Imagawa. He has decided finally to take the capital with the only true foes between him and it being the Oda clan led by Nobunaga Oda.

Okitsune Kikkawa, the head of the Kikkawa clan, was a valiant warrior but lacked in prudence. His rash nature was made evident with how readily he betrayed the Ouchi clan at Gassantoda Castle. Due to this and other incidents, unease and distrust were brewing among his vassals.

Motonari Mori:
Motoharu. You are to join the Kikkawa clan from today on.

Motoharu Mori:
Ah, you mean the clan that Mother came from?

Motonari Mori:
Yes. Their leader, Okitsune, was just driven out of the clan for misconduct.

Motoharu Mori:
…I see.

Motonari Mori:
I want you to succeed your mother’s clan. Do you understand? Do not disappoint me.

Motoharu Kikkawa:
I understand, Father. Leave it to me. I will become one of the strongest generals in the West and support the Mori clan.

And so, it was decided that Motoharu Mori would change his name to Motoharu Kikkawa and inherit the Kikkawa clan. He would be in charge of expanding the influence of the Mori clan in the Sanin region.

Inuyama Castle captured.

Soldier:
Reporting! Lord Nobukatsu Oda has rebelled at Suemori Castle! He has gained Lords Hayashi and Shibata as allies and is raising soldiers against us!

Nobunaga Oda:
…Is that so? Mother and the others likely put him up to this, telling him to replace his fool of a brother. Though my younger brother, he lets others make his decisions for him… What a pity. Yet, I will give no quarter. Those that stand in my way, no matter who they are, I will crush. Prepare to march! We bring down Suemori Castle immediately!

Capture Suemori Castle

Suemori Castle Captured

Katsuie Shibata:
Guh… To think that I would fall into enemy hands, unable to fulfill my liege’s orders… Such is fate. Come, now! Take my head!

Nobunaga Oda:
…I will not.

Katsuie Shibata:
What?! You would pity one who tried to take your life?

Nobunaga Oda:
No. I simply concluded that I need you for the path I will take. If you are one bound by such trivialities, I have no need of you, I’ll end your life right here. Yet, if you are one who would create this new world with me, living through your shame, then you are worth keeping alive. Now tell me Katsuie…which are you?

Katsuie Shibata:
(He would call joining his brother and attempting to take his life a “triviality”…? Perhaps Lord Nobunaga is called a fool because none in this world can truly grasp the depth of this man’s mind…) …Understood, my liege. I, Katsuie, swear to charge through this world of chaos under my lord, Nobunaga!

Clan Unification(Quest)
Completed!

Tokai, Suruga… Residing here was a might daimyo who had taken Totom, Mikawa, and part of Owari. Yoshimoto Imagawa. This man, known as the greatest warrior in Tokai, harbored a new ambition in his heart.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
We begin advancing west! We march to Owari, the fertile land of the Oda! I, Yoshimoto, will see how much of a man the Fool of Owari, Nobunaga, is…then conquer his lands, without fail!

Meanwhile in Owari.

Soldier:
Reporting! Imagawa forces have begun marching from Suruga! Yoshimoto himself is marching towards Owari with a large force!

Nobunaga Oda:
Yoshimoto… This battle won’t be easy… Throwing ourselves against a massive force led by Tokai’s best warrior will only get us killed. Winning without depending on old tactics, on old ways of war… Now is the time face my true trial!

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Battle of Okehazama - Nobunaga’s First True Battle - Update 15


It is time for one of if not the most important battles of Nobunaga’s life. Yoshimoto and Nobunaga square off, the Oda and Imagawa war.

The Battle of Okehazama(Quest)

Yoshimoto Imagawa, said to be the greatest warrior in Tokai, advanced his army into Owari. Ignoring his panicking retainers, Nobunaga looked far into the future.

Surround Narumi Castle.

Surround Narumi Castle completed!

Retainer 1:
We must surrender ourselves to the enemy for the sake of our clan!

Retainer 2:
What madness is that? The best course is to fortify here and stop our enemy’s momentum!

Nobunaga Oda:
We live but 50 years… Can we achieve our desires in life while worrying about nothing?

Nobunaga Oda:
Never. I shallow where my heart leads me, and therein, I will gain it all.

The Battle of Okehazama(Quest)

Defeat Yoshimoto Imagawa

Nobunaga Oda:
Yoshimoto…I’ve found you! Everybody, listen! The enemy doesn’t know of our presence, not through this thunder and rain! We cut into their main camp before they notice us! We aim for but one thing – Yoshimoto’s head!

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
This sound, this stench… Everyone, prepare for the enemy! The fool of Oda has drawn near!

Nobunaga Oda:
Well noticed, Yoshimoto! But you’re too late!

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
Attacking from the front under the cover of rain… Haha, you truly are like a storm!

Oda Soldier:
The Imagawa army has noticed our attack and begun to move! Please be careful, my lord!

Motoyasu Matsudaira:
What s this, this unsettling quiet… Something is happening. Something unbelievable… Everyone, return to the main camp!

Defeat Yoshimoto Imagawa completed!

Soldier:
Reporting! Our allies have cornered Yoshimoto Imagawa! A horseman has left him with grave wounds!

Nobunaga Oda:
Good news… Perhaps I can fell him at last. I’ll watch his death myself. Bring me to him.

Soldier:
Yessir!

An earth shaking turning of tables had taken place in Owari. The mighty daimyo of Suruga, Yoshimoto Imagawa, attempted to conquer Owari with overwhelming force. However, he met with an unexpected ambush at Okehazama. Leading the ambush was the young daimyo of Owari, Nobunaga Oda. And now, at the hands of a young warrior with a paltry force, the daimyo known as the greatest warrior in Tokai was meeting his end.

Nobunaga Oda:
Curtains, Yoshimoto.

Yoshimoto Imagawa:
Nobunaga, of all the people… I never expected to die watched over by an enemy. But, listen… Surpass me. Overcome what I’ve become. An average daimyo…satisfied with the single realm of Owari…is someone you must never…be…

Nobunaga Oda:
That I do not need to be told. What my heart desires is larger, wider than you could ever imagine. You were but the first step on the path of my ambition. Worry not for me; pass on.

And so, Yoshimoto met the end of his chaotic life. At the same time began the age of Nobunaga Oda, a conqueror among conquerors.

The battle at Okehazama(Quest)

Completed!

Yoshimoto Imagawa dead. News of hs defeat came as a great shock to Motoyasu Matsudaira, who had faithfully served in Yoshimoto’s vanguard.

Motoyasu Matsudaira(Tekechiyo):
This cannot be! Are you certain?

Soldier:
Yes, my lord. They were taken by surprise, and–

Motoyasu Matsudaira:
That’s not what I’m asking! I don’t care about that! What I want to know is, was it really Nobunaga Oda that did it?

Soldier:
Y-Yes, sr. The reports say that Nobunaga led the assault on the Imagawa camp himself.

Motoyasu Matsudaira:
He really did it… And where does that leave me? Listen well, warriors of Mikawa! It is time for us to return to our homeland! If we dawdle now, the Matsudaira clan will never get another chance to reclaim Okazaki and Mikawa! I can’t believe it was Nobunaga… I must make sure not to get on his bad side.

And so, Motoyasu Matsudaira broke off from the Imagawa army at Okazaki Castle to reclaim Mikawa, the land of his ancestors. With the death of Yoshimoto, the Imagawa clan quickly began to collapse.

Historical Tidbits

When Nobunaga talks of living but 50 years this is something that is often attributed to him. This is based on a Noh play called Atsumori by Zeami Motokiyo… The play contains a scene with a song/poem about the life of a warrior and how long they live. It took place in 1184 during the battle of Ichi-no-Tani and is about the samurai Taira no Atsumori.

To my understanding the original goes as follows.

Ningen Gojuunen,
Geten no uchi wo kurabureba,
yumemaboroshi no gotokunari.
Hitotabi sei wo ete,
metsusenu mono no
arubekika?

Which may have two translations, or more.

A man’s life of 50 years under the sky
is nothing compared to
the age of this world.
Life is but a fleeting dream, an illusion –
Is there anything that lasts forever?

or

In truth, this world is not eternally inhabited
It is more transient than dewdrops on the leave of grass, or the moon reflected in the water.
After reciting the poetry of flower at Kanaya, all glory is now left with the wind of impermanence.
Those who leisurely play with the moon of southern tower, now hide in the cloud of Saṅkhāra.
Human life lasts only 50 years, Contrast human life with life of Geten, It is but a very dream and illusion.
Once they are given life from god, there is no such thing don’t perish.
Unless we consider this a very seed of awakening, it is a grievous truth indeed.

Also while in the game we see Nobunaga and Yoshimoto meet we don’t really know if they ever did. Supposedly he was killed in battle against Nobunaga but the killer was a common soldier, and it is said Yoshimoto’s head was brought to Nobunaga and it was essentially paraded through Owari. Reminder, nearly everyone in this game is a monster.

Also something additional about the battle. It should be noted that what happened was the Imagawa army was many times larger than the Oda army but was spread out to conquer all of Owari. Because of that Nobunaga was able to use a secret path and ford a river which would normally have too high of water that receded thanks to the particular position of the moon that night. He crossed it then ambushed Yoshimoto at his camp sneaking past the spread thin soldiers and basically assassinated him.

If you’d like me to go over the history more in these little additions I can. Do let me know if it’s desired.

  • Yes More History Tidbits
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The Battle of Okehazama - The Viper of Mino Perishes - Update 16

Dosan Saito, the Viper of Mino, was in conflict with his heir, Yoshitatsu. No one quite knew why. Some say they were simply made not to see eye to eye, while others whispered that they were not related by blood… Some say Yoshitatsu smelled danger as his father’s interest in Nobunaga Oda grew. And then, finally…

Dosan Saito:
What is going on?!

Soldier:
An emergency, my lord! Your retainers have banded together in rebellion! Reports say they have slain your other children and are on their way here!

Dosan Saito:
…So, what scoundrel is trying to take my life?

Soldier:
It is believed to be your heir, Lord Yoshitatsu!

Dosan Saito:
Yoshitatsu…

His resolve gathered, Dosan hurriedly wrote a letter to Nobunaga and sent a courier running towards Owari. Then, gathering up what men he could, he made his last stand against Yoshitatsu’s army. However, he was outnumbered. Yoshitatsu’s overwhelming numbers forced him into submission.

Dosan Saito:
So, this is it… Well, Yoshitatsu… I’ll be watching just how well you do against the fool of Owari from the next world.

Dosan was slain by his son. The man who clawed his way to the top met a grand end at the hands of his own blood, doing the same.

This report reached Nobunaga, who was on the verge of sending Dosan reinforcements.

Nobunaga Oda:
So…the Viper is dead, is he? Well, if it’s come to this…

Soldier:
Will we disarm the men, my lord?

Nobunaga Oda:
No, continue preparations. …We take Mino.

Soldier:
Yes, my… lord? But, Lord Dosan was your uncle, my lord. Is now not the time to mourn rather than fight…?

Nobunaga Oda:
Right now is the perfect opportunity. In the letter that came a few days ago was the Viper’s will. He said that he gives Mino to me. Though I don’t know what the man was after…we have the perfect justification to attack Mino. We can’t let this chance slip by. I will bring it under my control – first, Mino, then this nation.

A few days later, Yoshitatsu, having slain his father, announced cutting ties with the Oda. Nobunaga told the world of Dosan’s last words, “I give you Mino”, and fashioned himself the rightful heir to the land. Thus began the Oda’s invasion of Mino.

After defeating Yoshimoto Imagawa at Okehazama and ridding itself of pressing danger, the Oda clan built up its strength. On the other hand, the nearby country of Mino had kept up its hostility towards the Oda since the death of its former leader, Dosan Saito. However, the Saito clan was an organization Dosan built up in a single generation. Its decline due to his death was clear to all.

Nobunaga Oda:
…This is the perfect chance. Mino is fertile and bountiful, a land Dosan was as far as to deceive his liege to steal. It would be a waste to have ti under the lead of a talentless youth. We take Mino. Mino – that is the next step on the path I must take.

The Conquest of Mino(Quest)

“I concede Mino” were the Viper’s last words before the flames consumed him. Caring not for the intent behind the words, Nobunaga advanced into Mino.

Bring the Azai Clan’s trust to 100.
Bring the Matsudaira Clan’s Trust to 100.
Capture Inabayama Castle.

Historical Tidbits

It is not really known what prompted Yoshitatsu to kill Dosan Saito, and whether or not they were really related by blood is also unknown. Nobunaga claimed that the Viper ceded Mino to him but again there are a lot of unknowns here. It is both possible and unknown if he really did.

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The Battle of Okehazama - Oda and Azai Become Kin - Update 17

Brought the Azai Clan’s trust to 100!

As his quest for territory met fiercer and fiercer resistance, Nobunaga sought new allies. The first clan Nobunaga laid eyes on was the Azai clan, rulers of North Omi. While securing his route to the capital by allying himself with those who controlled Odani Castle, an important point along the way, was a major reason…he also wanted Nagamasa Azai, known to be brave and wise, as an ally. In an attempt to form this alliance, Nobunaga made a bold move.

Oichi:
You called, brother?

Nobunaga Oda:
Ichi… There’s something I need to ask you.

Oichi:
You want me to marry into the Azai clan, yes?

Nobunaga Oda:
So, you know… My sister truly is a wise woman.

Oichi:
My brother, everyone in the Oda clan knows that the alliance with the Azai is all you have been thinking about.

Nobunaga Oda:
Mmm… This alliance is a shortcut to the capital, something I must gain for the cause of conquest. Yet, among the Azai, there are those who view the alliance with Asakura as of great importance, starting with Nagamasa’s father, Hisamasa. They hold no fondness for me.

Oichi:
Because of that, we need proof, a guarantee, something unshakable… And that proof would be…me, correct?

Nobunaga Oda:
Ichi…

Oichi:
I am the daughter of a warrior house. If I can be of use to the family in a time of such need…I will go gladly.

Nobunaga Oda:
I see… Then I will send a messenger to the Azai. Prepare for marriage.

Oichi:
Understood, brother.

And so, Oichi married into the Azai clan of Omi. The brilliant young warrior, Nagamasa. A woman known to be the fairest lady in the land, Oichi. Their marriage was known all throughout Owari and Omi, gathering up the people’s blessings and jealousy.

Oichi:
My name is Ichi. Though of modest ability I may be, I am ready to take my role as a woman of the Azai.

Nagamasa Azai:
Let us skip the stiff greetings. Lady Ichi, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for coming so far. …To put it plainly, within my people, there are those who object to our marriage – to the alliance with the Oda. They say we cannot trust the Oda, since they are enemies of our trusted friends, the Asakura. However. I believe in my new brother. I believe in Sir Nobunaga. He promised not to attack the Asakura in return for our alliance. And, also…as proof of our new bond, he gave you, Lady Ichi, a vision of unspeakable beauty, to me.

Oichi:
Lord Nagamasa…

Nagamasa Azai:
To make the alliance last, Lady Ichi, I will protect you with my life, come what may.

Oichi:
Nagamasa, though sudden, if I may ask a favor of you.

Nagamasa Azai:
…What mght that be?

Oichi:
From today on, I am your wife. You needn’t be so stiff.

Nagamasa Azai:
Forgive m… Ah, sorry. Let’s go hand in hand for the glory of both Oda and Azai, Ichi.

And so, a strong bond was made only stronger by marriage was formed between the Oda and Azai clans.

Historical Tidbits

This would have taken place in the year 1564. The game sometimes causes events to happen too early depending on what you do as the player.

Characters Introduced

Nagamasa Azai

Nagamasa Azai Profile

Oichi

Oichi Profile

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The Battle of Okehazama - Hideyoshi’s One Night Fortress - Update 18

In his invasion of Mino, Nobunaga Oda sought to construct a fortress in Sunomata to act as a foothold for his military advance. However, the stubborn defenses of the Saito clan brought his efforts to failure time and time again.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
I’ll bet Lord Nobunaga’s getting real impatient about now…

Koroku Hachisuka:
Hey, Tokichiro, what’d you want me for?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Ah, Koroku, there you are. I wanted to ask for your help on something.

Koroku Hachisuka:
Oh? Does it involve us making coin?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Nah, it involves building a fortress – and with that, I want to put those smug samurai in their place.

Koroku Hachisuka:
And how’s building a fortress going to do that?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Listen up good. Lord Nobunaga? Man wants him a fort in Sunomata more than anything right now.

Koroku Hachisuka:
Sunomata? You mean our turf?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Right, your place. But these green Oda samurai keep waltzing over to Sunomata and trying to build the thing like they own the place…

Koroku Hachisuka:
…and the Saito men keep coming down and wrecking t all up, huh?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Right, right. So I was thinking, maybe we should do it ourselves. OUR way.

Koroku Hachisuka:
Now you’ve got me interested. All right, I”ll take care of the Saito lot. Is three months enough?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Nah, 2 months’ll be all it takes.

Koroku Hachisuka:
Now that’s some ambition! Don’t be lettin’ that confidence bite you in the arse, now!

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Say whatever you want – one of these days, I’m gonna be a daimyo myself. This ain’t nothing!

Koroku Hachisuka:
Remind me to beg you some coin when you’re big, haha. Well, I’m gonna go get things ready.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
All right, counting on you!

One Night Fort at Sunomata(Quest)

The Oda Army wanted a fortress to act as a foothold in their Mino campaign. Where many other officers had failed at the construction, a new challenger steps in.

Build a fortress in Sunomata.

Built a fortress in Sunomata.

With the help of Koroku Hachisuka and other people of Mino, Hideyoshi Kinoshita managed to create a fortress in Sunomata. It took on the name of the “Sunomata One Night Fortress”, and people praised Hideyoshi’s quickness of motion.

Nobunaga Oda:
Hmm… Rather well done, Monkey.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Praise I am unworthy of, my lord!

Nobunaga Oda:
When matters became difficult, you were able to bow your head to those who knew the lay of the land better and ask for help… That was something the samurai cannot do, not while their petty station and birth holds them back. Because you are not bound by such insipid ideas, you could do what the samurai could not.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Insipid ideas…?

Nobunaga Oda:
Keep up your good work. The world I create is a world for those like you.

Koroku Hachisuka:
Hey, Tokichiro! That went well! You got praised by your boss, didn’t you? And let me tell you, I’m looking forward to that reward!

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Koroku… I’ve decided.

Koroku Hachisuka:
Decided? Decided what?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
I’m going to climb up the social ladder, serving under Lord Nobunaga! This is the only place I can pull it off! Lord Nobunaga spits in the face of tradition, of station, of birth… That means I’ve got a chance!

Koroku Hachisuka:
Ah, I get it… In that case, I’ll help you out, too!

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
All right, Koroku! Join us, and let’s make a new world together!

Koroku Hachisuka:
Yeah! I don’t really get this new world business, but we’re splitting the reward, got it?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
…So you hadn’t forgotten.

The sudden construction of a fortress in the war torn land of Sunomata greatly surprised the Saito army…sending Hideyoshi Kinoshita’s name thundering throughout the Oda clan.

One Night Fort at Sunomata(Quest) Completed!

Historical TIdbits

It is not exactly known when Hideyoshi was born. Early on he served Yoshimoto Imagawa before absconding and joined the Oda clan in 1558. He had no lineage and served as a mere foot soldier at first. The event in questions really is true though. Hideyoshi really managed to get a fortress built under these conditions and the Saito were pretty pissed about it. Whether it was done in one night truly or not is unknown, probably it wasn’t. Supposedly he also found a secret route in the process that aided in defeating the Saito. Monkey is also how he was referred to by many and by Nobunaga himself due to his features and mannerisms. The fortress was also reconstructed and now serves as a museum to its history.

Characters Introduced

Hideyoshi Kinoshita

Hideyoshi Kinoshita Profile

Koroku Hachisuka

Koroku Hachisuka Profile

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Battle of Okehazama - Motoyasu Becomes Ieyasu, Matsudaira and Oda Ally - Update 19


Another short update, the Matsudaira and Oda join hands creating a bond that would last until death.

Brought Matsudaira Clan trust to 100.

Losing their leader Yoshimoto at Okehazama, the Imagawa clan lost their former glory and found itself on a quick course to decline. Under these conditions, Motoyasu Matsudaira, tired of serving under the Imagawa clan for so long, swore independence. In an attempt to reclaim Mikawa, the land of his father and forefathers, he rebelled against his former masters.

Reports of this reached Nobunaga in Owari.

Nobunaga Oda:
So, that whelp I spent my childhood with… He has grown in body and spirit, I see. However, with the Matsudaira being as small as it is now, eagerness alone isn’t going to help them become independent.

Soldier:
My lord, do you have a moment?

Nobunaga Oda:
Aye, has he arrived?

Soldier:
Yessir. Lord Motoyasu Matsudaira has arrived.

Nobunaga Oda:
Good news. Now, how long has it been since we have seen each other…

Kiyosu Castle of Owari. Here, on this day, Nobunaga and Motoyasu met with each other as daimyo.

Nobunaga Oda:
Takechiyo… Or, should I say, Sir Motoyasu Matsudaira. How long it has been. I thank you for making such a long journey here.

Motoyasu Matsudaira:
And you, Sir Kipposhi, are now Sir Nobunaga Oda. How pleased I am to see you once again.

Nobunaga Oda:
Our forms and positions have both seen much change, indeed. I would love to speak on about the past, yet…let us get the main topic out of the way, first.

Motoyasu Matsudaira:
Aye. Our alliance, my lord.

Nobunaga Oda:
Rght. Though both small clans, we have many enemies. Joining hands would be of benefit to both of us. The problem is the discord between our clans leftover from my father’s generation. I cannot imagine my retainers would accept an alliance easily.

Motoyasu Matsudaira:
Indeed, and no small amount of my people look at this alliance with eyes lacking all fondness. However, I wish to make this alliance go through, no matter the cost.

Nobunaga Oda:
Hm. And why might that be?

Motoyasu Matsudaira:
Because I wish to see an order, a new world, with these eyes. Even if I managed to wrest Mikawa back, am I to rest there in satisfaction, all that would await me is the fate of the Imagawa. It is no longer enough to simply value clan and tradition, not if I wish to survive this chaos. One must look to something broader, greater…

Nobunaga Oda:
And you think that broader, greater thing is this “new world”?

Motoyasu Matsudaira:
That I do. And now, the only one with his eyes on that…is you alone, Sir Nobunaga, in my view.

Nobunaga Oda:
I see. You have noted my ambition and wish to come along… Heh…Hahaha! Now, you’re an interesting one. Very well, Sir Motoyasu. Starting now, we are allies. Let Oda and Matsudaira join hands and cut open a new world in this land of the rising sun.

Motoyasu Matsudaira:
Aye!

And so, the Oda and Matsudaira clans came to be allies. Nobunaga promised his daughter to Motoyasu’s eldest son, strengthening the bond between the clans. Furthermore, Motoyasu removed the “moto” in his name given to him by Yoshimoto to take on a new name – Ieyasu. The alliance was known to later generations as the Kiyosu Alliance, and it supported Nobunaga’s conquest for years to come.

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Battle of Okehazama - Love Is In The Air - Update 20

[Content Warning for Incest]


We are introduced to Toshiie Maeda this update, who would go on to become a very important member of the Oda clan. Unfortunately he loves his sister/cousin which this is the history so it couldn’t be avoided, but yeah, warning for that. We also get to see Hideyoshi get hitched(Not featuring Kevin James or Will Smith).

Toshiie Maeda, Oda clan retainer. Blessed in physique, possessed of a volatile temper and skilled in usage of a spear, he was a warrior called a “Legendary Spearman” by those around him. He was also known for his eccentricity, flamboyance, and quickness to fight.

After building up a few exploits in battle, Toshiie had become one of Nobunaga’s most trusted elites, leading him to want to take a wife.

Matsu:
Brother, what made you choose me?

Toshiie had taken Matsu as a wife, his cousin whom he’d grown up with like a sibling since a young age.

Toshiie Maeda:
H-Hey, no more of this “brother” stuff! We’re married now, okay?

Matsu:
Ah, forgive me. It’s hard to get out of the habit.

Toshiie Maeda:
I see… Well, no need to force it. Take it slowly.

Matsu:
So, why have you chosen me as your wife? Father and mother were both quite surprised.

Toshiie Maeda:
Well… How was I supposed to leave you alone? Your dad died on you, your mother chased you out…if I left you alone, could I even call myself a man?

Though his cousin, Matsu had not been born into the same family as Toshiie. She lost her biological father, and when her mother remarried, she ended up given to the Maeda family.

Toshiie Maeda:
Well, you’re going to be living with me from now on. Nothing’ll hold you down, and you’ll have nothing to worry about!

Matsu:
All right… I’ll pass my days here with you, my dear, calm and tranquil.

Toshiie Maeda:
I’ll help that tranquility – from now on, I’m going straight! Gotta make life easier for you!

Toshiie Maeda and his wife, Matsu. The two were said to be a close, loving couple, giving birth to two sons and nine daughters. Here, their life together began.

One day, in the Oda’s main castle.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Hey! Toshiie!

Toshiie Maeda:
Oh, Hideyoshi. What’s the matter?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Well, actually, I… I’m getting hitched, too.

Toshiie Maeda:
Really?! Well, that’s something to celebrate! So, what kind of girl’s she?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
I tell you, she’s way too much of a beauty for a guy like me. W-Way too much, I tell you…

Toshiie Maeda:
Hey, you seem a little…down. What’s the matter, sad you can’t fool around anymore?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Come on! Well, uh, that aside… Her mother was really against it. I managed to get her permission, but, well… In the end, we’re going to have the wedding in that infantry house.

Toshiie Maeda:
Wait, THAT infantry house?!

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Y-Yeah. So, Toshiie, I wanted to ask you as a man!

Toshiie Maeda:

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Would you arrange our marriage?

And so, Hideyoshi Kinoshita and his new wife Nene had their wedding in the infantry house of his residence, with Toshiie Maeda arranging the affair.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
N-Nene! I’m gonna make you the happiest woman in the world!

Nene:
No need to be overdramatic, my dear. I’m already happy enough.

Toshiie Maeda:
Phew… Well, I’d say you’re in a good place.

Matsu:
Nene, ask me anytime if you need anything!

Nene:
Sure! Thanks for being so kind!

It is said that Hideyoshi and Nene overcame her parents’ opposition to have a marriage based on love, rare at the time. It is also said that the Maeda couple who arranged the marriage maintained a long, interfamiily relationship with the newlyweds.

Nene:
But if you cheat, I’m telling Lord Nobunaga, okay?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Wh…?! A-All right…

Historical Tidbits

Toshiie Maeda is said to have dressed in eccentric ways. This is in reference to Kabukimono. They were bands of ronin or samurai who dressed in eccentric clothing that were typically younger, and were around during the Sengoku and Edo periods. Nobunaga in his youth is also described as having worn such outfits. There is some history to women also using Kabukimono culture to dress as men, and men doing the reverse and wearing women’s clothing. Generally they were frowned upon but some areas tolerated them more than others with certain places outright banning the lifestyle.

Characters Introduced

Toshiie Maeda

Toshiie Maeda

Matsu

Matsue Profile

Nene

Nene Profile

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Battle of Okehazama - The Genius Tactician Hanbei - Update 21

Shigeharu Hanbei Takenaka, a warrior residing in Mino, had served the Saito clan since his father’s generation. Though he possessed a rare, prodigious intellect, he saw little use.

Instead, his gentle nature and his appearance, which had been likened to a woman’s, earned him nothing but the mockery of the burly warriors around him. Hanbei paid them no particular mind, but one day a Saito retainer got carried away and mocked him far more than he could bear.

Though Hanbei left without refutation, his face held back a quiet anger. Then, one day…

The head of the Saito clan, Tatsuoki Saito, awoke in Inabayama Castle from his lazy slumber to see a surprising scene.

Hanbei Takenaka:
Have you awoken, Lord Tatsuoki?

Tatsuoki Saito:
You’re…Hanbei, aren’t you? Just what is the meaning of this?

Hanbei Takenaka:
I come today to ask you for respite from my duties, my lord.

Tatsuoki Saito:
This…this is how you ask for respite…? And what’s that head?

Hanbei Takenaka:
This is the head of the man wh insulted me but a few days ago. Seeing as I could not forgive him as a warrior, I liberated him of his head.

Tatsuoki Saito:
Then… Then why do you have soldiers with you?

Hanbei Takenaka:
Because I’d like to offer this castle up to you, my lord.

Tatsuoki Saito:
Offer it to me? This castle I already own?

Hanbei Takenaka:
I’m afraid, my lord, that this castle had been taken over by unsavory retainers who were but manipulating you. Therefore, I took it back for you.

Tatsuoki Saito:
You…took it back? With such a small number of troops?

Hanbei Takenaka:
Indeed. Though they may be numerous, they were but a flock of fools who neglect their warrior’s duties. For your sake, my lord, I have slain them. And with that, I will take my leave. I wish you fortune in your ruling.

Tatsuoki Saito:

The rumors surrounding Hanbei Takenaka, who had taken over Inabayama Castle with a paltry force before disappearing, spread instantly to nearby lands.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Now this guy sounds like a man and a half. And I can be Lord Nobunaga’ll be really intrigued! I think I’ll send a man to keep an eye on him. But Inabayama comes first! If they’re letting their lackeys get the better of them, the Saito are good as done! And Mino’s all Lord Nobunaga’s!

Historical Tidbits

Hanbei’s real name was Shigeharu. This story is somewhat true in that Hanbei really did capture Inabayama Caste. However, he also went on to defend it against the Oda which impressed Hideyoshi. Hanbei has been portrayed as a woman before because of the historical accounts of his feminine appearance.

Characters Introduced

Hanbei Takenaka

Hanbei Takenaka Profile

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Battle of Okehazama - Tenbun War, Miyoshi Uprisings, Christianity, and the Second Floor Incident - Update 22


This update is quite large, it is about a lot of incidents away from the Oda that will be important in the future of this LP. Also because of Uncharted I keep typing Sir Francis Drake instead of Francis Xavier.

The Tenbun War which sparked the confrontation between between Tanemune Date, the head of the Date clan, and his heir, Harumune, was finally coming to a close. Tanemune was originally thought to have the advantage, but internal conflicts between Tanemune’s supporters allowed Harumune to take the upper hand and corner his father. Eventually, the two finally found peace with each other.

Harumune Date:
Heh heh… Do you feel like surrendering yet, Father?

Tanemune Date:
Let me ask you one thing. Why did you start a war like this?

Harumune Date:
Why else? Because I wanted to see your face twisted in pain.

Tanemune Date:
Don’t joke with me! The Date clan has suffered immeasurably because of this feud. After this ends, you will have to do the same thing I did and form the “den” you so hated!

Harumune Date:
Even if I do, I don’t regret what I did. Ths age of war exists to destroy the old and make room for the new.

Tanemune Date:
Even that which is new will one day become old. Do you not even understand something so simple as time?

Harumune Date:
When that time comes, my children or grandchildren can destroy it and build their own world.

Tanemune Date:
How did you become such a violent child? First there was the incident with your wife, and now this war… I don’t remember raising you that way.

Harumune challenged the old ways he hated so much, and succeeded in destroying them. But due to the weakened state of the Date clan he needed to rely on marriage alliance to rebuild, just like his father. Oshu would not be freed from the “den” system of familial ties until the age of Harumune’s grandson, Masamune, came into power.

The prestigious Hosokawa clan took up the position of chancellor to the Muromachi shogunate. The clan, however, found itself in an ever worsening internal struggle for power.

Nagayoshi Miyoshi, the man who carried the Hosokawa clan to greatness, turned against his master, Harumoto Hosokawa. The conflict eventually escalated into armed combat.

Supported by his talented younger brothers, Nagayoshi had his army overwhelm the Hosokawa troops all across the land, bringing the enemy to their knees.

Kazumasa Sogo:
Brother, what’s the matter? Hurry and give the order to finish Harumoto off.

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
That, Kazumasa, would be problematic. Should I give that order, I’ll end up an usurper. That sort of infamy will return to bite later on…

Kazumasa Sogo:
Hahaha! As roundabout as ever, brother of mine!

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
This, Kazumasa, s the capital’s way of war. You’d best learn it a little yourself.

Kazumasa Sogo:
I’ve no use for such a thing! All I wish is to destroy our foes on the battlefield for your sake and the sake of our clan! That is the brutal way of Sogo! Everyone, we charge! We cannot wait on my brother’s orders, so I’ll give them myself – slay Harumoto!

With the invaluable contribution of his younger brother Kazumasa Sogo, Nagamasa triumphed over the Hosokawa. He exiled Harumoto to Kyoto and seized the authority of his former masters.

The Miyoshi clan, Nagayoshi’s castle of residence…

One day, a report that his younger brother Kazumasa Sogo had succumbed to illness reached Nagayoshi Miyoshi. Once he heard, however, that the illness was not grave and that Kazumasa was on his way to a healing spring, a wave of relief passed over him. However, a few days later…

Soldier:
My lord, it’s an emergency! Lord Kazumasa has passed away…!

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
What?! I heard his illness was not severe…!

Soldier:
My lord… The report says he fell off of his horse on hs way to the hot spring.

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
Impossible! No matter how sick he is, Kazumasa would never fall off his horse!

Soldier:
Yet, my lord, that is what Lord Hisahide has…

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
Hisahide said that?

Soldier:
Yes, my lord. Lord Hisahide accompanied Lord Kazumasa to the spring.

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:

Though it was suspected that Kazumasa Sogo’s death was at Hisahide Matsunaga’s hands, the truth remains unknown to this day. Whatever the cause, the Miyoshi’s loss of their military leader was a painful blow.

Two years had passed since the death of “Brutal Sogo”, Kazumasa Sogo. Aside from Kazumasa, Nagayoshi Miyoshi had two other younger brothers of great talent: Yoshikata Miyoshi and Fuyuyasu Atagi. Thanks to their efforts, the Miyoshi clan was on course to regain its former glory. However…

Soldier:
My lord, it’s an emergency! Lord Yoshikata has been slain!

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
What?! Yoshikata, slain…?! Why…?

Soldier:
They say he was shot by a Negoro’s musket, my lord.

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
Blast… Yoshikata was a cautious man, but perhaps he pushed himself too hard in battle… If only Kazumasa were still alive…!

Yoshikata, the oldest of Nagayoshi’s younger brothers, one who had always supported him, had been hit by a bullet on the battlefield. While he was still in mourning, two men visited Nagayoshi. His other brother, Fuyuyasu, and his heir, Yoshioki Miyoshi.

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
What brings you here together?

Yoshioki Miyoshi:
Father, it’s about Hisahide Matsunaga.

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:

Yoshioki Miyoshi:
Like uncle said, that man will only spell trouble for the Miyoshi clan. Though he has a great intellect, his mind is like that of a starving wolf. I have no doubt he will bring ruin upon our clan one day.

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
Do you think so too, Fuyuyasu?

Fuyuyasu Atagi:
Too be honest, my lord… I am unsure. Yet, the rumors that Kazumasa’s death was by Hisahide’s hands continue even now. And if those prove true, the man cannot be left alive…

Yoshioki Miyoshi:
Father, what is your decision?

Nagayoshi Miyoshi:
(I hear what Yoshioki’s saying, but losing Hisahide now would be dire… Furthermore, there’s no reason to suspect Hisahide for the death of Yoshikata. Now, what to do…)

August, the 18th year of Tenmon 1549. Bonotsu, in the land of Satsuma…

Francis Xavier:
Oh…! Lord on High, I thank thee for guiding your humble servant all this way! Lord, who preached that you were the way… Continue to grant us your divine guidance!

Francis Xavier, Jesuit and missionary. Accompanied by a few other missionaries and a Japanese man he had met on the way, Yajiro, this priest stepped on Japanese soil for the first time. To ask permission to do missionary work, the group visited the leader of the clan that ruled Satsuma, Takahisa Shimazu.

Takahisa Shimazu:
Have these men come from the same country as those westerners who brought us the muskets?

Francis Xavier:

Soldier:
It appears so, my lord.

Takahisa Shimazu:
(I see… And if I allow them to spread the teachings of their homeland, our dealings with their countr should become smoother… The monks probably won’t keep quiet, but I’ll give this a try.)
Very well. I permit you to spread your teachings. Let all know that I will not allow any harm to come to these men. Should anything happen, let me know.

Soldier:
Yes, my lord!

Approved by Takahisa, Xavier and his group began their missionary work in Satsuma.

Francis Xavier:
This is a wondrous country… Its people value honor and possess integrity, even the peasants can read. They will surely understand the teachings of God. …Yet, with the land thriving as much as this, the Lord’s teachings may not be accepted, even if understood… Furthermore, this land has its own ways and teachings. I must understand those, first. No matter the trials and tribulations, I will spread the good news throughout this land. That is why I was born – why I have come here! Lord…grant me your guidance…

And so, supported by the strong will of Xavier and his missionaries, Christianity began to spread throughout Japan.

The 19th year of Tenmon, 1550. The daimyo of Bungo, Yoshiaki Otomo, was suddenly attacked by a retainer and died from the wounds. His heir, Yoshishige Otomo, took his place as the head of the Otomo.

Yoshishige Otomo:
Just as I thought. Father was trying to remove me from power.

Akitsura Bekki:
That he was, my lord. The reason he suggested you heal in the hot springs, too, was to eliminate us while you were away.

Yoshishige Otomo:
My father’s certainly had senility kick in, trying to push me aside and pass the reins of the house onto that fool of a brother of mine. And on top of that, I can’t believe he didn’t think I’d see through such a half-hearted scheme.

Akitsura Bekki:

Yoshishige Otomo:
I’m not dying, not anytime soon… Tea, paintings, theater, treasures of the west… There’s still so much I desire!

Akitsura Bekki:
We retainers are ready to lay down our lives for you, my lord. That in mind, it would be just to avoid drowning yourself in wine and instead act like a lord, my lord.

Yoshishige Otomo:
Hahaha! I know, I know. Akitsura, I leave the fighting to you. Let us show the land how the Otomo do battle.

Because Yoshiaki Otomo was attacked at the second floor of the Otomo mansion, the assault was called the “Second Floor Incident”. With Yoshishige’s adept diplomacy and progressive mind, and Akitsura’s unparalleled tactical abilities fueling it, the Otomo began a period oof rapid expansion.

Historical Tidbits

The Tenbun War lasted from 1542 to 1548. Francis Xavier arrived in Japan on the 27th of July 1549, September 29th 1549 he was given the audience with Lord Shimazu. The 2nd Floor Incident, also called Rebellion of the 2nd Floor, took place iin 1550. It is not known exactly why Yoshishige was targed for removal but t is suggested it was his unruly behavior. During the incident many of the lead retainers of the Otomo were kiled in secret on Yoshishige’s order. Some of these incidents and events are presented out of order. It can be difficult to get events to trigger at the rights times and n the right order, so I’ll be trying to give the correct time for events

Characters Introduced

Nagayoshi Miyoshi

Nagayoshi Miyoshi

Kazumasa Sogo

Kazumaso Sogo Profile

Francis Xavier

Francis Drake Profile

Yoshishige Otomo

Yoshishige Otomo

Akitsura Bekki

Akitsura Bekki Profile

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Battle of Okehazama - The Shogun Assassinated, and Conquering Mino - Update 23

The 13th shogun of the Muromachi shogunate, Yoshiteru Ashikaga, did everything he could in an attempt to reverse the decline of the shogunate’s power brought on by the Onin war.

Eventually, Yoshiteru’s actons could no longer go unnoticed by Hisahide Matsunaga of Miyoshi, a clan which aimed to manipulate the shogunate while expanding its own power in central Japan.

However, an incident finally brooke out. Hisahide led troops to surround the Imperial Palace in an effort to slay Yoshiteru.

Soldier:
Lord Yoshiteru Ashikaga! Forgive me, I must take your life!

Yoshiteru Ashikaga:
Hasahide… To think he would resort to such treachery. I suppose he can’t stand letting my actions go any longer. So be it… But my life does not come cheap.

Yoshiteru pulled out the number swords of note passed down from shogun to shogun and jammed them into the tatami mats around him.

Yoshiteru Ashikaga:
Rejoice in your fortune, mercenaries… My blade is the blade of the shogun, the leader of the warrior class. My style is that passed on by my master, Bokuden Tsukahara, Ichi no Tachi! Die by this sword and boast to the demons in hell!

The Miyoshi soldiers charging at Yoshiteru were cut down one after the other. Whenever his blade dulled, he pulled another sword from the tatami and kept on fighting.

Meanwhile, at the camp surrounding the palace.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
It s not I who will kill Yoshiteru, oh no. It was Yoshiteru himself, paying no mind to the motions of the world, acting in futility only to fulfill his own ambitions. Neither the shogunate nor swords will be needed in the world to come. All that awaits one who fails to notice that is death. He he… But one must wonder just how many daimyo realize the coming of this new world!

Soldier:
Reporting, my lord! Yoshiteru Ashkaga has fallen.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Finally dead, is he? How did he meet his end?

Soldier:
Our men surrounded him with tatami as shields, then slew him.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
He was more stubborn than I thought… Yet, the image of such a master being overwhelmed by mere grunts before dying… What a fitting death for that fool! Hahahaha!

And so, the 13th shogun, who had worked so hard to restore the shogunate power, Yoshiteru Ashikaga, died. The shogunate became a puppet of the Miyoshi clan and lost its independence.

Hisahide Matsunaga, however, the man behind the incident, ended up defeated in a battle for authority within the Miyoshi clan and disappeared. The capital and its surroundings fell into chaos.

Captured Inabayama Castle!

Nabayama Castle, Mino.

Soon Takugen:
Congratulations, Lord Nobunaga.

Nobunaga Oda:
Ah, Takugen… I’ve finally taken it. Mino, this land the Viper left to me, is finally mine.

Soon Takugen:
Now, Lord Nobunaga, you possess the twin fertle lands of Owari and Mino. Our country, and your might as a daimyo, will only increase from here.

Nobunaga Oda:
Mm… Yet, it is still too early to throw any celebrations. To get what I truly want, I must ride even further. Takugen. From this land, I will move this nation.

Soon Takugen:
Oh? What would you mean by that?

Nobunaga Oda:
First, I will move people and goods through business in Owari and Mino. Goods make us richer, people make us stronger, larger. The flow of coin moves goods and people, it changes countries. And this will change the form of our world. Unification through arms. A world where warriors – where I control the flow of all things is what I aim for.

Soon Takugen:
Unification through arms… You have put quite a lot of thought into this, my lord. In that case, unworthy though it may be, might I give you a small suggestion? How about naming this land “Gifu”?

Nobunaga Oda:
Gifu… A message to take after King Wen of Zhou, who began his conquest at Qishan – with their “Qi” being our “Gi”?

Soon Takugen:
Indeed. This Inabayama Castle will become the foundation of Lord Nobunaga’s great work. With that in mind, perhaps you may want to emulate the greats of old and grant it a good name.

Nobunaga Oda:
Mm, a good idea. This land is now Gifu. And my work of unification through arms, my ambition, begins here.

The Conquest of Mino(Quest)

Accomplished!

Historical Tidbits

Soon Takugen, also known as Shoun Takugen, is a figure I can find very little about. He is some form of Buddhist priest who was on close terms with the Oda clan and even suggested the name Nobunaga for Nobunaga Oda.

Yoshiteru was assassinated in 1565. He fought like a warrior and according to accounts his gay lover also fought beside him. When he died his lover committed suicide. Yoshiteru as far as I know was only interested in other men.

Characters Introduced

Soon Takugen

Soon Takugen Profile

Hisahide Matsunaga

Hisahide Matsunaga

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Battle of Okehazama - Shogun Yoshiaki Seeks Nobunaga, Introducing Mitsuhide Akechi - Update 24


With the 13th shogun Yoshiteru Ashikaga assassinated by Hisahide Matsunaga and company, the shogunate was in chaos.

Yoshiteru’s younger brother, Kakuke, a priest in Kokufukuji Temple, took up after his brother to restore the shogunate. Taking the name of Yoshiaki, he sent requests for aid to many daimyo. No daimyo, however, would move to help the declining shogunate. With nowhere else to turn, Yoshiaki sent a messenger asking for aid to the rapidly expanding Oda clan.

Gifu Castle, Mino. Today, Nobunaga was in a meeting wth Yoshiaki’s messenger in his castle of residence.

Nobunaga Oda:
Very well. I will grant Lord Yoshiaki my aid.

Messenger:
I am eternally grateful, and sure Lord Yoshiaki will feel the same.

Nobunaga Oda:
I would love to march straight to the capital, but must first clear away a few who would stand in my way.

Messenger:
Well, Lord Nobunaga, now you have the justification of protecting Lord Yoshiaki. Perhaps all you would need to do is march your sizeable force towards the capital…

Nobunaga Oda:
Hmm… Just what are you trying to say?

Messenger:
…Though not my place, allow me. I believe this situation can only work to your advantage.

Nobunaga Oda:

Messenger:
And for the shogunate as well, gaining the protection of the rapidly expanding Oda clan is quite a blessing. So I believe both sides have quite a bit to gain…

Nobunaga Oda:
So, you saw through my intent to use the shogunate, and went on to use that yourself… You really are an unusual man…

Messenger:
Unusual…Well, Lord Nobunaga, the same could be said of you. Were you like everyone else, I would not be so quick to show my hand.

Nobunaga Oda:
Hahaha! All right, I like you. Tell me your name.

Mitsuhide Akechi:
Yessir… My name is Mitsuhide Akechi.

Nobunaga Oda:
Mitsuhide, serve under me. Restoring the shogunate is too soft for a man like you. As men who stand outside tradition, together we could make a world like none that has ever been imagined.

And so, Mtsuhiide Akechi, mediating for Yoshiaki Ashikaga in Owari, became a retainer of the Oda clan. Nobunaga and Mitsuhide. This was how the fated pair first met.

To The Capital(Quest)

Going to the aid of the Shogun, Ashikaga Yoshiaki, gave Nobunaga Oda the perfect opportunity to march to the capital at last.

Capture Kannonji Castle

Historical Tidbits

Yoshiaki originally sought out the aid of the Takeda and Uesugi. He then went on to ask the Asakura and while they were willing they could not aid him. So the “Wandering Shogun” turned to Nobunaga. There was a 14th Shogun actually who was a child, Yoshihide. But of course he was just a puppet that Yoshiaki planned to succeed.

Characters Introduced

Yoshiaki Ashikaga

Yoshiaki Ashikaga Profile

Mitsuhide Akechi

Mitsuhide Akechi Profile

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Battle of Okehazama - Thrice Met with Hanbei - Update 25

After the commotion caused by his takeover of Inabayama Castle, Hanbei Takenaka left his homeland of Mino and was residing in Omi.

Hanbei Takenaka:
So, Inabayama has fallen… Well, it’s about time. I have a good feeling about this… Today’s a good day for a journey. And you, who’s been watching me this whole time… I think I’ll finally get to meet you.

Once Hanbei had gotten word that Inabayama Castle had fallen to the Oda, he left Omi behind.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
What?! Hanbei’s back in Mino?! I really want to go see him, but… First I’ve got to let Lord Nobunaga know!

Thrice Met(Quest)

A young genius resides in Mino. Hearing that, the ever sharp Hideyoshi Kinoshita wastes no time in seeking the rumored mastermind, yet…

Employ Hanbei Takenaka

Employed Hanbei

Nobunaga Oda reached out to Hanbei Takenaka on the tactician’s return to Mino, asking him to join the ranks f his retainers. Though Hanbei responded, he immediately went quiet and stopped all contact.

Nobunaga Oda:
Monkey.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Y-Yes, my lord?!

Nobunaga Oda:
What of Hanbei Takenaka? Where is he now? What is he doing?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
O-Oh, he’s… You know, my lord, I’ll go and check on him right now!

Hideyoshi visited Hanbei’s mansion to find him leisurely relaxing instead of engaging with any sort of work.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
H-Hanbei! What are you doing?! You just showed your face once and haven’t been to the castle since! Do you know how mad Lord Nobunaga is? Oh, if you don’t say anything to him, he’ll…

Hanbei Takenaka:
That’s the thing.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Huh?

Hanbei Takenaka:
See, on that note, Lord Nobunaga and I just do not agree.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
What do you mean agree?

Hanbei Takenaka:
Well, Lord Nobunaga is possessed of a bit too much harshness. Were I to serve under him, I would eventually vex him and find myself out of a head.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Well…Well, if it comes to that, I’ll protect you!

Hanbei Takenaka:
Protect me? And how would you do that?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
…Right now, I have no idea.

Hanbei Takenaka:
…Yet you went and said you would?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Well, I don’t know how I could do it as I am right now – that’s all! But when I rise up in the ranks, I’ll have you covered!

Hanbei Takenaka:
Then please come again, Lord Kinoshita, when you rise up in those ranks. With that, I will take my leave.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Wait! Hanbei, I can’t climb the ladder without you! Damn it! I…I’m not giving up!

Hanbei Takenaka had no desire to work under Nobunaga, and though he showed himself when summoned, he immediately disappeared again. As others were appalled and others still gave up, Hideyoshi Kinoshita showed not the slightest hint of quitting. He continued to visit Hanbei’s mansion fueled by pure determination.

Hanbei Takenaka:
Lord Kinoshita. No matter how many times you may come, I have no intention of serving Lord Nobunaga.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Ah, is that so?

Hanbei Takenaka:
And I believe I have said this before, but allow me to say it again. Please leave our next meeting for when your station has improved.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Now, about that. I want to take back what I said last time.

Hanbei Takenaka:
Oh…? Did you come today to say that?

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
No, I came to tell you to join us.

Hanbei Takenaka:
Lord Hideyoshi… I expected a greater deal of understanding from you.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Wait, I’ve got the perfect idea. You should just work under me, Hanbei.

Hanbei Takenaka:

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
You wouldn’t get along with Lord Nobunaga, right? In that case, you should just work for me. That way, I can protect you. See?

Hanbei Takenaka:
I see… Indeed, that does sound like it could work out.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
It does, doesn’t it? Good idea, if I say so myself.

Hanbei Takenaka:
And yet, your plan has a critical flaw.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
What? It does? Just what would that be?

Hanbei Takenaka:
If we are a poor match, Lord Kinoshita, the plan falls to pieces.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
…Hahaha! You’ve got a point! So, what do you think? We match?

Hanbei Takenaka:
Haha… Well, I’d have to think on that.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
I think we get along pretty well! Like a fish and water! Oh, it’s about time for dinner. Hanbei, I’ll visit you again – let me know your answer then!

Hanbei Takenaka:
Fish and water… Quite the bold statement. A rather interesting man, that Kinoshita.

Hideyoshi was seven years older than Hanbei, and, when all was said and done, a retainer to the Oda clan. A man of his stature visited Hanbei, a mere ronin, time and time again.

At the time, such an act was socially unthinkable. Witnessing that eagerness, Hanbei could not help but be moved.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Nene said we’re having fish tonight… Boy, am I starving!

Hideyoshi visited Hanbei Takenaka for the third time.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Oh, Hanbei! You actually came out to see me this time!

Hanbei Takenaka:
Well, even Zhuge Liang came out of his dwelling when visited the third time. Though I cannot match Zhuge Liang, should I fail to respond to your three meetings, well… I’ll be the laughingstock of the land.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
I don’t really get the reference, but you mean you’ll join me, right?

Hanbei Takenaka:
Indeed, my lord, I will. However, as you said, I will be under you, rather than Lord Nobunaga.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Sure, sure! Details! Who needs ‘em? Not me, and not you. Welcome aboard, Hanbei!

Hanbei Takenaka:
I swear I will bring you to the top of the nation, Lord Kinoshita. That will be a worthy dsplay of my talent.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Ha ha ha! The nation, huh? Gotta shoot for those stars. Well, like I said, glad to have you in!

And so Hanbei Takenaka, known to later generations as a genius tactician, came to fight by Hideyoshi’s side.

Thrice Met(Quest) Completed!

Historical Tidbits

I can’t really find anything on Hanbei and Hideyoshi being quite this homoerotic historically, but it also wouldn’t surprise me. Homosexual and Bisexual relationships were decently common in Sengoku Japan. Nobunaga himself had a male lover, as did Shogun Yoshiteru as I’ve mentioned. This may be a bit of the developers trying to make a joke though and play on Hanbei being described as feminine.

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Battle of Okehazama - The Ouchi Get Sue’d - Update 26

After losing dramatically at Gassantoda Castle to the Amago Clan, Yoshitaka Ouchi, leader to the Ouchi Clan, completely lost desire to expand his territory. Yoshitaka moved the Takafusa Sue’s militarist faction that had led the charge against the Amago away from the center of clan politics, leaving governing to more moderate retainers.

August, in the 12th year of Tenmon, 1551. The opposition between the militarist and moderate factions had reached its peak, leading Takafusa Sue to raise an army.

Yoshitaka Ouchi:
T-Takafusa! Why…Why are you doing this?! Have you forgotten what I have done for you? How I loved you?

Takafusa Sue:
Lord Yoshitaka… It is because I cannot forget what you have done for me that I cannot bear to watch the Ouchi go down this road any longer. And love’s end, my lord, often goes unnoticed. Now, everyone, slay Yoshitaka! The Ouchi clan no longer needs a spineless leader!

Unable to make any sort of organized resistance, Yoshitaka Ouchi took his life at Taineiji Temple.

Takafusa Sue had Yoshishige Otomo’s younger brother, Haruhide Otomo, change his name to Yoshinaga Ouchi and placed him as the head of the Otomo. He then changed his own name to Harukata Sue and went on to hold the true authority within the clan.

Characters introduced

Takafusa Sue

Takafusa Sue

Yoshitaka Ouchi

Yoshitaka Ouchi Profile

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Battle of Okehazama - The Otomo Bungo’ll About - Update 27


Yoshishige Otomo, leader of the land of Bungo, took over his clan after the infighting in the Otomo known as the “Second Floor Incident”. The incident has lost Yoshishige his father, his mother in law, and his half brother.

For a time after his inheritance, his territory was caught in confusion and strife, leading Yoshishige to spend his days in battle. Then, Bungo had finally calmed down in the 5th year of Eiroku, 1562…

Yoshishige Otomo:
Akitsura. The clan has settled down quite a bit, wouldn’t you say?

Akitsura Bekki:
…That I cannot. My lord, surely this is not enough to have you fall into the trap of relief, is it?

Yoshishige Otomo:
Far from it. I know as well as you we have to make the Otomo thrive even further. Yet, I must say I’m a little tired. I’m thinking of joining the priesthood, changing my perspective.

Akitsura Bekki:
…Now is not the time to be indulging in leisure, my lord.

Yoshishige Otomo:
I know that! That’s why I’m joining the priesthood – to cut ties with the leisure you hate so much.

Akitsura Bekki:
…If it is for the sake of the Otomo, I will not stop you. However, I will join you. From here worth, I will take no the name of Dosetsu.

Yoshishige Otomo:
(Good grief… He’s a little TOO loyal.) Do as you wish. From henceforth, my name is Sorin!

The two changed their names, with Yoshishige Otomo calling himself Sorin Otomo and Akitsura Bekki calling himself Dosetsu Tachibana. The efforts of the two would bring the Otomo clan to the height of its splendor.

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Battle of Okehazama - Masahide’s Suicide - Update 28

[Content Warning For Suicide]

Captured Kannonji Castle

Capture Nijo Palace

Nobunaga took up the position of lord of the Oda clan after his father, Nobuhide. However, his fierce, wild conduct remained after his ascension, failing to gain the understanding of his retainers. Worried about this situation, Nobunaga’s guardian, Masahide Hirate, arrived at a resolution.

Masahide Hirate:
Lord Nobunaga, do you have a moment?

Nobunaga Oda:
What do you want, gramps? I’m busy. Whatever you want to scold me about, do it later.

Masahide Hirate:
It’s very important. You see, I’m worried about what is to become of you, my lord, and of the Oda clan…

Nobunaga Oda:
Didn’t I tell you to scold me later? Listen, gramps, I’m the lord of the Oda. I’ve got more important things to do than keep the retainers smiling. I’m working on something they can’t even dream of. So I don’t have any time. I can’t listen to your complaints like I did back in the old days.

Masahide Hirate:
Is that so, my lord… In that case, I shall write it in a letter.

Nobunaga Oda:
Do as you please. I’m off.

Masahide Hirate:
… I’ll make him listen, even if it costs me my life…!

Then, that evening.

Soldier:
M-My Lord! It’s an emergency!

Nobunaga Oda:
What’s all the commotion?

Soldier:
Lord Hirate has…Lord Hirate has taken his own life!

Nobunaga Oda:
What?! Gramps!? That can’t be – why would he?!

Soldier:
The details are unclear. However, there was a letter beside himi…

Nobunaga Oda:
That can’t be…! Give it to me!

Masahide Hirate:
“As promised, I wrote it in a letter. This is gramps’ final scolding. Before you became this clan’s leader, and after, you pursued your ambition relentlessly. As your guardian, I am proud of you from the bottom of my heart. However, do keep one thing in mind. Your ambition, Lord Nobunaga, belongs not to you alone. The retainers of the clan all wish to support that ambition in their own way. This is why they want to complain when they see you tackling your project all alone. So I beg of you, Lord Nobunaga. Instead of charging recklessly towards your wish, keep those around you in mind. You must not make light of those who understand and will help you pursue your goal. And if gramps opening his stomach caused you to change your attitude, my lord, then no one will be suspicious of its suddenness. I beg of you, for your sake and for the sake of this clan, to hear this plea I have exchanged my life for.”

Nobunaga Oda:
…All right, gramps. This one scolding I’ll take to heart…

Nobunaga held Masahide’s letter tightly. As he held back his cries, his hand trembled ever so slightly.

Afterwards Nobunaga’s conduct completely changed, being thoughtless and wild no longer.

The warning that cost Masahide his life caused Nobunaga to grow greatly, not only as the leader of the Oda, but as a daimyo of the Sengoku era, as well.

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