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

[Tolvo]

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.

[Tolvo]

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

Matsu

Nene

[Tolvo]

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

[Tolvo]

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

Kazumasa Sogo

Francis Xavier

Yoshishige Otomo

Akitsura Bekki

[Tolvo]

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

Hisahide Matsunaga

[Tolvo]

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

Mitsuhide Akechi

[Tolvo]

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.

[Tolvo]

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

Yoshitaka Ouchi

[Tolvo]

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.

[Tolvo]

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.

[Tolvo]

Battle of Okehazama - The Seeds Of Destruction - Update 29

Captured Nijo Palace

After marching to the capital, Nobunaga Oda took the Muromachi shogunate back from the Miyoshi clan and placed Yoshiaki Ashikaga as shogun. Hearing the news, one man sent a request to join Nobunaga faster than any other.

Hisahide Matsunaga. The man who murdered the previous shogun, Yoshiteru Ashikaga, and sent the shogunate on a path to destruction

Nobunaga Oda:
So, you’re Hisahide Matsunaga?

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Yes, my lord. Might I express my deepest thanks for allowing a criminal such as I to see you. As a token of my gratitude, please accept this.

Nobunaga Oda:
Oh? This is the Tsukomonasu, is it not? The shogunate used to possess this.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
That it is, and as atonement for my previous crimes and a statement of my sincerity, I offer it up to you.

Nobunaga Oda:
Immediately giving me what I desire, even if it is your own treasure… Well, I am impressed. However, Lord Yoshiaki seems opposed to you joining me. Though, that is to be expected, since you slew his brother. And as one who protects Lord Yoshiaki, I cannot bring you into my clan as simply as that. Capturing you here and handing you to Lord Yoshiaki is likely the correct path a servant must take…

Hisahide Matsunaga:
…

Nobunaga Oda:
Hah, you needn’t worry so. Unlike Lord Yoshiaki, I look up to you.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
…?

Nobunaga Oda:
You killed your master, you killed the shogun, and you even burned the statue of Buddha at Todaiji Temple. Each an unspeakable crime in its own right…and you went and committed all three. The abilities of such a man cannot be average – that is my read.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Th-Then…?

Nobunaga Oda:
I accept your vassalage. From this day forth, serve me with all that you have.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Yes…Yes, my lord!

Hisahide Matsunaga:
…Hmph, he’ll act as big as he wants for now, but he’s nothing but a bumpkin warrior of Owari. Gaining his favor will pose no difficulty whatsoever.

A report that the great villain Hisahide Matsunaga had joined the Oda reached Yoshiaki in no time at all.

Yoshiaki Ashikaga:
Impossible! Hisahide murdered my brother, and he employed the man…? Nobunaga… At this rate, can he be trusted…?

With Hisahide’s employment, trouble brewed between Nobunaga and Yoshiaki far sooner than anyone had anticipated.

To The Capital(Quest)

Accomplished

[Tolvo]

Nobunaga Besieged - Sue’s Defeat and the Anti-Nobunaga Coalition - Update 30

In the Taineiji Incident, Harukata Sue killed his lord, Yoshitaka Ouchi, and seized control of the Ouchi clan. However, his forceful expansionist policies incited resistance from the surrounding daimyos and settlements.

One of these daimyos was Motonari Mori, the daimyo of Aki. Motonari came up with a plan to lure Harukata’s soldiers into Miyao Castle on Itsukushima, and the strategy worked brilliantly. Due to the narrow corridors of Miyao Castle and the fact that it rained the previous night, the Sue army was trapped with no way to mobilize. Suddenly, the Mori army appeared from both the land and sea.

Harukata Sue:
Motonari! So this was your plan all along!

Motonari Mori:
He who plots, wins. Admit your defeat, Harukata. All units, charge!

Unable to react quickly, the Sue army was surrounded by the Mori troops on all sides. With no way to retreat, the Sue forces fell into chaos and were wiped out. This victory was the beginning of Motonari Mori’s domination of the Chugoku region.

Reaching the capital and becoming the shogun’s virtual vanguard, the Oda grew in force daily. However, feeling the most endangered by this situation was none other than the shogun Yoshiaki Ashikaga himself. In secret, Yoshiaki sent off letters to other daimyo, speaking of the Oda’s excesses in an attempt to breed hostility towards Nobunaga.

The Asakura clan, allies to the Azai clan, was led by one of the daimyo Yoshiaki requested the aid of. With that, relations grew violently strained between the Oda and Asakura, and armed conflict became a matter of time.

Meanwhile, at the Azai clan…

Nagamasa Azai:
The Asakura seem to want me to pick a fight with the Oda.

Oichi:
They do…? What will the Azai do?

Nagamasa Azai:
The Azai and Asakura have been allies for a long, long time… I and many others in the clan have been helped by them in times of need. I’m deeply grateful to them. The Azai helping the Asakura will likely mean cutting ties with the Oda…

Oichi:
Lord Nagamasa…

Nagamasa Azai:
Ichi, I’m sorry. This is the path we’ve chosen. But, since it’s come to this, you can still go back to the Oda…

Oichi:
My brother is a man fully devoted to his ideals. To him, the shackles of obligation and mere feelings are obstacles to be destroyed.

Nagamasa Azai:
…!

Oichi:
I am a woman of a warrior house. I came prepared for this. So worry not for me, Lord Nagamasa. As my brother does, follow your beliefs.

Nagamasa Azai:
Ichi…

Oichi:
Please, don’t tell me to go home…that would be too sad. The woman I am now…is your wife.

Nagamasa Azai:
Indeed…you’re right. Sorry for entertaining the thought. Please, forget I said anything. I am no retainer to my brother in law. I’ll pursue my beliefs.

Prioritizing their long standing alliance with the Asakura, the Azai chose to stand against the Oda clan. Yoshiaki Ashikaga did not end hs stirring of conflict there – the leader of Honganji, Kennyo Honganji, joined forces with the Asakura and stood against Nobunaga.

Kennyo Honganji:
Oh believers, now is that time we stand! Let us bring Nobunaga Oda, enemy of Buddhism, into an endless hell!

Rising to Kennyo’s call, the Ikko-shu at Ise Nagashima made preparations at Nagashima Castle.

Nobunaga Oda:
I believe in neither paradise nor hell. …The new world I shall create will be a paradise. And what I show those who oppose me, who bare their fangs…that will be hell!

The group of daimyo who rose up against Nobunaga in reaction to Yoshiaki Ashikaga’s secret letters were known as the Anti-Nobunaga Coalition.

Anti-Nobunaga Coalition(Quest)

As the Oda Clan rapidly grew more powerful, the daimyo who opposed it formed a coalition. Thus, the age’s revolutionary had to stand tall before grave danger.

Eliminate the Asakura Clan
Eliminate the Azai Clan
Capture Nagashima Castle

[Tolvo]

Nobunaga Besieged - Hisahide Matsunaga’s First Betrayal - Update 31

Yoshiaki Ashikaga, 15th shogun of the Muromachi shogunate. Though previously in the Buddhist priesthood, the assassination of his brother and 13th shogun, Yoshiteru Ashikaga, brought him back to his seat of power. The man who killed Yoshiteru was a major player in central Japan, Hisahide Matsunaga. And now, both of them were about to join forces to achieve a single goal.

Yoshiaki Ashikaga:
Hmph… By all means, I’d rather not see that sneering face of yours.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Haha… Quite the welcome, my lord. Personally, I bat not an eye at the rotting authority of the Ashikaga shogunate.

Yoshiaki Ashikaga:
You dare…?!

Hisahide Matsunaga:
However, Lord Yoshiaki, I respect the power you hold. Not just anyone can cause the Takeda to move.

Yoshiaki Ashikaga:
Y-You’ll help, then? Join the coalition against Nobunaga?

Hisahide Matsunaga:
I will, my lord. I shall raise troops in Yamato and make Nobunaga draw his last breath.

Yoshiaki Ashikaga:
Yet, I cannot comprehend your actions. After murdering my brother and immediately bowing to Nobunaga, why would you turn against him like this now?

Hisahide Matsunaga:
I could ask the same of you, Lord Yoshiaki. After taking the seat of the shogun with Nobunaga’s help, why are you against him?

Yoshiaki Ashikaga:
Nobunaga looks down upon the shogunate and shogun, thinking only to use them for his own designs. That is not a role I will accept lightly!

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Hah, the shogunate and shogun… What rubbish.

Yoshiaki Ashikaga:
What?! Knew it, I should never have…

Hisahide Matsunaga:
However, my lord, I cannot stand idly by as a country warrior like Nobunaga does as he pleases in our capital. I’ll show him who’s truly worthy to be seated in Kyoto. I take my leave.

Yoshiaki Ashikaga:
Blast, as vile a man as ever… Yet, to remove Nobunaga, a beggar can’t be a chooser…

A Man Called Hisahide Matsunaga(Quest)

Hisahide Matsunaga, a man with the heart of a beast and the grace of a noble. Nobunaga saw something of himself in the man, as well as something he could never obtain himself.

Make Hisahide Matsunaga Lord of Shigisan Castle.

Made Hisahide Matsunaga Lord of Shigisan Castle

Joining in on the formation of the Anti-Nobunaga Coalition, Hisahide Matsunaga raised soldiers at Shigisan Castle in his land of Yamato.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Nobunaga… Fancying yourself a destroyer, do you seek to change this world? I won’t let you. That, you see, is my role. I must always be one step ahead of you. I cannot allow myself to be overtaken.

The alliance of the shogun Yoshiaki Ashikaga and the murderer of his brother, Hisahide Matsunaga, did not only surprise all the warriors of the land…but also threatened Nobunaga’s position, with two critical men of central Japan now against him.

Nobunaga Oda surrounds Shigisan Castle

Nobunaga Oda Surrounded Shigisan Castle

With his castle surrounded, Hisahide Matsunaga realized the futility of further resistance and sent a messenger of surrender to Nobunaga. Since Nobunaga had never forgiven a traitor before, everyone thought Hisahide’s death was imminent. However…

Messenger:
I have returned, my lord.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
And he has forgiven me, has he not?

Messenger:
Y-Yes, my lord, he has… He said he will turn a blind eye to this incident.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
I thought so… As he is now, he cannot take my life.

Messenger:
However…

Hisahide Matsunaga:
However…?

Messenger:
He commanded your presence at Gifu Castle, my lord.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Hmph…Very well, I’ll oblige.

Against the expectations of most, Nobunaga forgave Hisahide and ended up meeting him in Gifu Castle.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
I have come as you wished, my lord.

Nobunaga Oda:
…

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Words, my lord, cannot describe my gratitude at being graced with your forgiveness.

Nobunaga Oda:
Hisahide… You think I can’t kill you, don’t you?

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Not at all, my lord. I…

Nobunaga Oda:
True. I cannot strike you down now, not as loong as we seek the same thing.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
…

Nobunaga Oda:
Those that can comprehend my true intent are few and far between…for now. However, should the day come when those increase in number and you are no longer worth keeping alive… Prepare yourself.

Hisahide Matsunaga:
Understood, my lord… (Haha… So, he’s seen through me, has he? Yet, why would he reveal that to me? Just as I thought, Nobunaga – you cannot reach my level. And surpassing me is a sheer impossibility.)

[Tolvo]

Nobunaga Besieged - Massacre at Isa Nagashima - Update 32

A short update, sorry for the long wait. I have to upload the images to my twitter and didn’t want to spam my feed too much every day.

In this update of Nobunaga’s Ambition: Sphere of Influence we see more of the horrors committed by Nobunaga. He is well known for his refusal to respect Buddhism and religion in general is shown off here.

Captured Nagashima Castle

Isa Nagashima thrived as a base of the Ikko-shu, with believers running the local politics. Nobunaga did not acknowledge the independence of temple governments, and thus the Ikko-shu’s main temple, Ishiyama Honganji in Osaka, opposed him. They spoke out against Nobunaga to believers all across the nation.

In response, the believers in Nagashima rose up in an instant, all calling for Nobunaga’s downfall. Brutal battle were fought between the Ooda army and the Ikko-shu, claiming countless lives. However, now, the conflict was about to come to a dramatic end.

Orderly:
Reporting! The believers holding up in the castle have capitulated! They seem willing to surrender.

Nobunaga Oda:
They do, do they… Shoot them all. Leave none alive.

Orderly:
Ye…b-but, my lord…

Nobunaga Oda:
We’re getting to the root of the problem. This will show the world just what happens to those who oppose me.

The rivers surrounding Nagashima were crimson from the blood of the believers and the flames of the burning town. The other daimyo quivered at this unprecedented act of brutality, regarding Nobunaga with more caution than they had before.

[Tolvo]

Nobunaga Besieged - The Death of Nagamasa Azai - Update 33

In this update we see the end of the Azai clan, and the romance between Nagamasa and Oichi, as Nobunaga Oda’s forces close in on Odani Castle.

The Death of Nagamasa(Quest)

Marrying Nobunaga’s sister, Oichi, Nagamasa Azai sought the world as the his brother in law. Fate, however, had different intentions, with Nagamasa’s new brother bringing forth his end.

Make the Azai’s only base Odani Castle.

Made the Azai’s only base Odan Castle

Capture Odani Castle

Eliminated the Azai Clan

Captured Odani Castle

Though he took on Nobunaga Oda’s sister Ichi as a bride and became his younger brother-in-law, Nagamasa Azai chose to face Nobunaga in combat. And now, Nagamasa’s castle of residence, Odani Castle, was about to fall by Nobunaga’s hands.

Nagamasa Azai:
Ichi, it seems my luck has run out…

Oichi:
Before long, my lord, this castle will fall too the Oda. Yet, I am the daughter of a warrior house. I am ready.

Nagamasa Azai:
It was I who decided to face the Oda in battle. It was a mistake, though not one I regret.

Oichi:
But, my lord… That was what the retainers had pushed you into.

Nagamasa Azai:
No, I take the responsibility as head of the Azai.

Oichi:
…

Nagamasa Azai:
Yet, dragging you and our daughters into this foolish battle of mine… That consumes me with regret. Ichi, take our children and leave the castle. I can expect no pardon, but brother should forgive you.

Oichi:
But, my lord…! I cannot do such a thing…!

Nagamasa Azai:
I cannot bear the thought of you and our daughters meeting a miserable end in a place like this. Please, Ichi. Live, and allow our daughters to live, as well. Let the blood of the Azai pass on to future generations. Please…!

Oichi:
Being in a world without you, Lord Nagamasa, would be like walking through a moonless night with no lamp…I can only lose my way.

Nagamasa Azai:
…

Oichi:
Yet, to save our daughters… I will leave the castle and go to my brother.

Nagamasa Azai:
I’m glad, Ichi.

Oichi:
This is goodbye, Lord Nagamasa… Let us meet again, in the other world.

Nagamasa Azai:
Now…now I have no regrets. How miserable a leader I was… Perhaps if I had Nobunaga’s decisiveness, the Azai would not have turned out this way… Ichi, I fear we will never meet again… I must apologize to father and my retainers in hell.

The head of the Azai clan, Nagamasa Azai, claimed his own life, and Odani Castle fell at the hands of the Oda. Nobunaga’s younger sister and Nagamasa’s wife, Oichi, escaped the castle just before its fall. As she left, the Oda army temporarily halted their attack to watch over her and her daughters. Under the veil of pained silence, Oichi returned to the Oda clan.

The Death of Nagamasa Completed!

[Tolvo]

Nobunaga Besieged - Hideyoshi Kinoshita Becomes Hideyoshi Hashiba - Update 34

For today’s update we see an exchange between Hideyoshi and Nobunaga regarding names, and Hideyoshi gains a new one for himself.

Odani Castle, Omi.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
You had called, my lord?

Nobunaga Oda:
There you are, Monkey… You’ve become a bit more warrior-like, I must say.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
I am at the height of gladness to hear your praise, my lord!

Nobunaga Oda:
You can’t be a monkey under the trees forever. Change your name.

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
My lord, surely you jest…

Nobunaga Oda:
Jest? Do you say I would enjoy jesting with you?

Hideyoshi Kinooshita:
(Guh, that just made him mad…and Lord Nobunaga’s not one to drop the issue at times like this…)

Nobunaga Oda:
…

Hideyoshi Kinoshita:
Then, how about taking parts of the names of two of the Oda’s most powerful families to form the name “Hashiba”? “Hideyoshi Hashiba”, how about that?

Nobunaga Oda:
The “ha” character read from “Dewa” and “Shiba” from “Shibata”…very well.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
(Phew…!)

Nobunaga Oda:
One more thing.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
Th-There’s more, my lord?

Nobunaga Oda:
Of course there’s more. Your name change was a mere opening. I wish to speak of Odani Castle.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
This castle, my lord?

Nobunaga Oda:
I need to make a few adjustments to it. Was thinking about changing its name, too.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
I see, I see.

Nobunaga Oda:
So, any bright ideas?

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
What?!

Nobunaga Oda:
…Did you intend to make me think of everything?

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
N-No, not at all, my lord! In that case…since the castle is in the land of Imahama, I think Imahama Castle would be good.

Nobunaga Oda:
…

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
However, the name lacks punch. So, by borrowing a part of my Lord Nobunaga’s name…we could name it “Nagahama Castle”.

Nobunaga Oda:
Nagahama Castle. Not a half bad name. Very well, we go with that.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
(Phew…!)

Nobunaga Oda:
What are you still doing here? Out with you? Though if your hands are empty enough for you to stand gawking around here, II have a few words for you.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
Ah! If I may be excused, then!

Hideyoshi leaves.

Nobunaga Oda:
Hmph…quick witted and fast to adapt to any situation. A monkey, indeed. No one else has that kind of talent, that talent of his to take this nation… Eventually, he will become a man I cannot go without. Granting him this castle… Not a bad idea.

[Tolvo]

Nobunaga Besieged - Harunobu Renamed, The Tiger of Kai Shingen Takeda - Update 35

Though they were rapidly expanding their territory, the Takeda clan faced dangers from within. One could not call the land of Kai bountiful, and its people were made to bear the high cost of war expenses. The discontent of the people led to the discontent and anxiety of the local leaders and Takeda retainers. And from that discontent, Harunobu sensed a movement to exile him in the same way he exiled his father.

Harunobu Takeda:
If it’s come to this, I’ll have to act – and fast. Cannot stand idly by and end up chased out of my lands as my father was.

That very day, Harunobu joined the Buddhist priesthood and took on the name of “Shingen”. This change was all to gain the help of the Buddhist factions to bring order to his territory.

Shingen Takeda:
…If it’s for the cause of unification, I’ll become a demon or a Buddha; whatever it takes.

Though Shingen managed to strengthen his rule over his land through this movement…he had not completely extinguished the embers of treachery.

[Tolvo]

Just thought I’d mention I’ve updated the thread and added movies from the game. They are silent due to Koei’s DRM but you can still watch them and they are captioned. I retroactively added them to the parts they should have been and in the first post.

[Tolvo]

Nobunaga Besieged - The Uesugi Clan is Born - Update 36

Under pressure from the Hojo clan, Norimasa Uesugi-- the Kanto Chancellor – fled to Echigo. He asked for aid from the head of the Nagao clan. Kagetora Nagao, who proceeded to engage in a number of battles around Kanto on behalf of Norimasa.

Awestruck by Kagetora’s valiance, Norimasa decided to yield the chancellorship to Kagetora, thinking that a person as weak as himself was not fit for such a position. Kagetora accepted Norimasa’s offer with no resistance, almost as if he had been expecting it.

Kagetora Nagao:
From today forth, I, Kagetora Nagao, will replace Lord Norimasa as the Kanto Chancellor. I hereby change my name to Masatora Uesugi, and vow to strike down any who disturb the peace of Kanto.

When he became the Kanto Chancellor, Kagetora changed his family name to Uesugi, and combined Norimasa’s name with his own to become Masatora. In his new position, Masatora could always claim that hs battles were for the good of the Kanto region.

[Tolvo]

Nobunaga Besieged - Toshiie’s Punishment - Update 37

Content Warning for Incest

With his marriage to Matsu, Toshiie Maeda gave up the eccentricity and flamboyancy of his youth. He did not, however, give up his proneness to anger, and ended up slaying a man after a heated argument. The man he’d cut was kin to his master, Nobunaga, and the incident affected his employment within the clan.

Nobunaga Oda:
Toshiie, as valuable as your skills may be, I cannot let you go unpunished for this affair.

Toshiie Maeda:
Aye, my lord! I shall atone with a blade through my belly!

Nobunaga Oda:
Calm down, you blasted fool. Have you forgotten you’ve just gotten married? Matsu was her name, I believe. Do you intent to leave a wife of that caliber behind in your death?

Toshiie Maeda:
Ahh… Well, now that you mention it, my lord…can something be worked out?

Nobunaga Oda:
Two years. Pass two years without incident, and stay out of my sight.

Toshiie Maeda:
Is that…all, my lord?

Nobunaga Oda:
Don’t expect a stipend, either. Endure those two years without it. If you lose the will to serve me in that time, then disappear to wherever you see fit.

Toshiie Maeda:
That will not happen, my lord! I Toshiie, will endure those two years!

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
Toshiie, you made it out all right?

Toshiie Maeda:
Yeah, and all I’ve gotta do is stay put for two years for Lord Nobunaga to pardon me. What could be easier?

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
That’s all it’ll take…to get Lord Nobunaga to forgive you? Really? I guess the world’s just full of surprises.

Toshiie Maeda:
Well, I won’t be getting paid during that time, though!

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
…Wait, no stipend?! Toshiie, doesn’t that mean you’re actually out of a… Hey, who’s that girl?

Toshiie Maeda:
Oh I hadn’t introduced you?

Matsu:
I am his wife, Matsu.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
Since when’d you get such a beauty of a bride?!

Toshiie Maeda:
Didn’t I tell you I’d gotten married a while back?

Matsu:
You are brother’s friend Lord Hashiba, are you not? I have heard quite a bit about you.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
B-Brother?

Matsu:
Ah, forgive me. It’s an old habit of mine.

Toshiie Maeda:
I didn’t tell you? We’re cousins, see, and we grew up like brother and sister, so somethings she still calls me that.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
Like brother and sister…? No…no way…

Toshiie Maeda:
Well, since I’m out of a stipend, we’re going to be living in this infantry house for a while. See you ‘round Tokichiro. Keep in touch.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
No…no fair…

And so began Toshiie’s tribulations as he lived in lowly infantry quarters, virtually exiled from his clan.

Hideyoshi Hashiba:
…

Toshiie’s Struggle(Quest)

Toshiie Maeda, the eccentric, regarded spearman. His brusqueness working against him, the trouble he got himself in found him out of the Oda Clan.

Don’t employ Toshiie Maeda for 2 years.