Chapter 21

Eiroku 4 (1561) January, Early Month, Omi Province, Takashima District, Anegawa Village, Shimizu Castle, Kudoki Masahisa

"Is Takewakamaru alright, Father-in-law?"

"There's no need to worry."

"But..."

"Rokkaku fully understands the value of Kudoki. Takewakamaru won't be treated poorly at Kannōji Castle. Well, he might get a bit of sarcasm, but that's all."

He tried to laugh, but Aya's worried expression didn't fade.

It's a strange thing, Aya and Takewakamaru don't seem to get along well, but that doesn't mean she doesn't have maternal affection.

"When was the decision made for Princess Harunari to be declared an imperial princess?"

"It was decided in March. Takewakamaru provided the funds..."

"That's wonderful."

"Yes."

The Rokkaku family would naturally have this information. Kudoki's value has increased even more. Takewakamaru is handling things well. However, Aya isn't drinking tea. She's worried.

"What are you worried about?"

"It's about Lord Takase Bizen-no-kami..."

"There's no need to worry."

"But..."

"Kudoki has grown. It needs to have a corresponding number of vassals. Moreover, Kudoki is not a vassal of the Rokkaku. Lord Takase Bizen-no-kami is a good example of this. While Kudoki and the Rokkaku have a friendly relationship, it's not one of subordination. They won't tolerate complaints."

"..."

Kudoki now has that much power.

After the Battle of Nara, Takewakamaru moved quickly. He invaded the Asai territory, advancing beyond the Rokkaku's storehouse lands. The land was controlled by Taya Ise-no-kami Masaharu, the uncle of the late Asai Shinjiro Masaharu, who had gone to Kannonji Castle to calm the chaos after the battle. Takewakamaru swiftly captured Taya Castle, Chōhōji Hall, and Sawayama Castle, taking all of the Taya clan's territories. He then captured the Haijū Castle, the residence of the Haijū clan. In less than ten days, he cleared the Asai forces from the Takashima District.

Takewakamaru was apparently very pleased that the Haijū port, one of the major ports in the northern part of Lake Biwa, had become part of the Kudoki domain. He stayed at Haijū Castle and began direct control of the Haijū port. Or, perhaps his real aim was to prepare for the next battle. He invaded the western part of Ika District during the rice harvest season. The powerful local lord, Kumagai, surrendered almost effortlessly due to the farming season, which made it difficult to gather troops.

The meaning of hiring soldiers with money was understood, but seeing its actual effectiveness was truly impressive. Attacking when the enemy couldn't fight, moving when they couldn't move. Takewakamaru could move freely, and the enemy could only watch. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the outcome of the battle was decided before it even began. Kudoki had such a significant advantage.

The main members of the Kumagai clan surrendered and headed to Kannonji Castle. The ports of Ōura and Shiozu became part of the Kudoki domain. Then, a letter arrived from Takewakamaru.

"Thus, the movement of goods in the northern part of Lake Biwa is under Kudoki's control."

At first, the meaning wasn't clear. It seemed overly dramatic.

But when merchants from Wakasa, Omi, and even Echizen Tsuruga began visiting Shimizu Castle, the meaning became clear. The movement of goods means the movement of money. Takewakamaru had abolished checkpoints and guaranteed freedom of passage and trade. Many merchants came to Kudoki. The Asai not only lost an important source of income to Kudoki but also found their trade routes disrupted. Gradually, the Asai were being cornered. If Kudoki so desired, they could also strangle the throat of Tsuruga.

When the rice harvest ended, the Asai forces attempted a counterattack. But at the same time, the Rokkaku moved. The rumor of the Battle of Nara, which Takewakamaru had spread through the Eight Gates, made the Rokkaku realize the threat of Kudoki's power. Or perhaps they were spurred by Takewakamaru's invasion of Asai territory. The Rokkaku launched a large-scale attack on Sawayama Castle, an important Asai stronghold, and captured it.

The Asai, suspecting a full-scale offensive by the Rokkaku, had no choice but to focus on the defense of Kannonji Castle. Takewakamaru, in sync with the Rokkaku's movements, resumed his invasion. He advanced to the area around Lake Yogo and built fortresses. On Dairoku Mountain, Iwaki Mountain, Sannō Mountain, and Morigamine. Materials needed for the fortresses were transported via the port of Shiozu. Lin Yojirozaemon was in charge of escorting the ships to prevent attacks from the Asai. Fortresses were built around Lake Yogo and to protect Shiozu. Although it seemed like a defensive measure before winter, the fortress on Iwaki Mountain was right next to the Hokkoku Road. If desired, it could cut off the Hokkoku Road. It was a defensive measure with an eye on the offensive. Another step in cornering the Asai.

With that, Takewakamaru's invasion of Asai territory ended. Winter was approaching, and the snow would soon come. For the time being, there would be no movement. Takewakamaru spent the winter at Shiozu Beach Castle. He even went directly to Kannonji Castle from Shiozu Beach Castle. Not returning to Shimizu Castle might be a sign of his determination to consume the Asai. Kudoki now controlled all of the Takashima District and the southwestern part of the Ika District. The stone value exceeded 100,000 koku. The Asai still had about 150,000 koku, but the gap was closing...

Eiroku 4 (1561) January, Early Month, Omi Province, Higashine District, Kannonji Castle, Goto Masahiro

"It's about time, isn't it? I'm looking forward to it."

Everyone nodded when Lord Goto said this in a good mood. Soon, Takewakamaru Kudoki would come to pay his New Year's greetings. Those welcoming him would be Lord Goto in the main seat, the young lord, and on either side, Shintō, Higashine, Mikkawa, Megata, and Hōjō Kaga-no-kami, with me. However, Hōjō Kaga-no-kami was accompanying Takewakamaru and would arrive here with him.

Footsteps were heard, and Lord Hōjō appeared.

"Lord Takewakamaru Kudoki has come to pay his New Year's greetings. Lord Kudoki, this way."

"Hai."

Takewakamaru appeared, wearing a soft light blue hitatare. He might have grown a bit. He advanced and sat in front of Lord Goto.

"I humbly offer my congratulations for the New Year. I am deeply grateful for the great favor I received last year and express my heartfelt thanks. I humbly request your guidance in the new year."

After his speech, he bowed deeply.

"Indeed, I also humbly request your guidance. I hope this year will be a good one."

"Hai."

"Lord Takewakamaru has brought New Year's gifts."

At Lord Hōjō's words, Lord Goto ordered, "Bring them here."

Everyone exchanged glances. Everyone knew about Kudoki's wealth. First, dried shiitake mushrooms and soap, no doubt.

Seven or eight people came in from the back, carrying the gifts. When I thought I recognized their faces,

"The ones carrying the gifts are from the Rokkaku family. Lord Takewakamaru said that Kudoki family members are outsiders and should not appear before Lord Goto. I am deeply impressed by Lord Takewakamaru's consideration."

At Lord Hōjō's words, a murmur arose.

"Indeed, I appreciate the consideration, but it's unnecessary from now on."

"Hai."

The first item brought in was a beautifully lacquered candy dish, perhaps Kudoki lacquer. Two contained dried shiitake mushrooms, and one contained soap. Next were three swords made in Kudoki. That's why he didn't have Kudoki family members carry them. Then, three bolts of high-quality silk from Echigo, a rare red wine purchased from the South, and a tiger skin purchased from Korea. Half was from Kudoki, and the other half was purchased. How much did it cost...

"Indeed, I am surprised. To receive such lavish gifts is truly humbling. Lord Takewakamaru, I sincerely thank you on behalf of the Rokkaku family."

"If you accept them, I will be overjoyed."

Lord Goto and Takewakamaru were having a calm conversation. Were they acting, or was it genuine? In any case, I wish the young lord would smile a bit more. A smile can change the impression of the other person. Takewakamaru, who is younger than the young lord, is doing it.

With the Asai as enemies, Kudoki's value has become even more important. And for Kudoki, the cooperative relationship with the Rokkaku is essential. That's why Kudoki is lowering his stance to pay respects, and Lord Goto is smiling to entertain Kudoki. To bring Kudoki into the Rokkaku. Lord Goto's strategy has hit the mark. By giving up 10,000 koku, he gained 60,000 koku. Now, it has grown to over 100,000 koku. But it's still not enough to bring Kudoki in. Today should be the finishing touch.

"Still, you took the Asai territory so quickly. Indeed, the speed, we are all surprised."

At Lord Goto's words, Takewakamaru bowed deeply. Indeed, it was fast, so fast that the Asai couldn't keep up. Kudoki's strength wasn't just in firearms. The advantage of being able to move hired soldiers wherever and whenever needed was significant. If they became enemies, it would be extremely troublesome. For that reason, Kudoki must be on their side.

"I am also surprised. Lord Goto, you captured Sawayama Castle so quickly. That castle was important to the Asai and should have been well-defended. The Asai must have been shocked."

Lord Goto laughed heartily.

"Indeed, we had to work a bit. The Rokkaku family's reputation would be at stake. Isn't that right?"

Lord Goto addressed us, and everyone responded, "Indeed," "Certainly," filling the hall with voices and laughter.

"Well, what do you think, Lord Takewakamaru? We have become closer, and I want to strengthen the bond between our families."

After a bit of small talk, Lord Goto brought up the topic, and Takewakamaru smiled.

"I was thinking the same thing."

Everyone exchanged glances. It seems Kudoki has no objections to a marriage alliance with the Rokkaku.

"Then, how about this? Lord Takewakamaru, why don't we become father and son? I want you to take my daughter. It would be a great comfort to have a son like you."

"I have no objections. I consider it an honor for our family."

Lord Goto nodded.

"I have no daughter. Therefore, I want to adopt Hōjō's daughter and form a bond with you."

"Is it Lady Yō, Hōjō's daughter?"

A slightly awkward atmosphere arose. Once married to the Asai, Lady Yō would be considered a divorced woman.

"Lord Takewakamaru, please don't misunderstand. Yō is a kind and beautiful girl. That's why I married her to the Asai, but that fool..."

"Lord Goto."

Takewakamaru interrupted Lord Goto.

"I apologize for my lack of words. I have no complaints about Lady Yō. But what does Lady Yō think? Once married to the Asai, if she still has feelings for them, it might be against her will to marry into Kudoki."

I thought he was trying to raise the conditions, but... I wasn't the only one surprised; everyone exchanged glances. Lord Goto was staring at Takewakamaru.

"Hōjō, what do you think?"

"Lord Takewakamaru, I appreciate your consideration. Yō says she has no connection with the Asai and wants to forget as soon as possible. There's no need to worry."

"If that's the case, there's no problem. I want to welcome Lady Yō into our family."

The matter was settled easily. The ceremony would be held in May after his coming-of-age ceremony. The agreement between the Rokkaku and Kudoki would be reported to the shogunate, and the coming-of-age ceremony would follow the shogunate's wishes. The shogunate would likely be involved in the wedding in some form. It might be a grand ceremony. Lord Hōjō seemed to have taken a liking to Lord Takewakamaru for his consideration of Lady Yō. He's quite skilled at winning people's hearts. Everything was settled, or so I thought, when Takewakamaru said he had something to discuss in private.

Eiroku 4 (1561) January, Early Month, Omi Province, Takashima District, Anegawa Village, Shimizu Castle, Takewakamaru

When I returned to Shimizu Castle from Kannonji Castle, my grandfather and great-uncle Masahisa immediately came to my room. We exchanged New Year's greetings, and then Aya Mama came in, another round of greetings. After all, it had been over four months since I last saw these three. The greetings took a while. When they were over, Aya Mama quickly asked about Kannonji Castle.

"Were you treated badly at Kannonji Castle?"

"No, nothing like that happened."

Aya Mama sighed in relief.

"Aya, you worry too much. The Rokkaku aren't foolish enough to treat you poorly during New Year's greetings."

"That's true, Lord Retired."

My grandfather and great-uncle dismissed Aya Mama's worries, but she still looked at me with a worried expression. It's not entirely unfounded; the Rokkaku do have fools. Emon-kami Yoshiharu, for example, is a hopeless fool.

"I worry because you have a fiery temper..."

"Mother, that fiery temper is a misunderstanding. I'm not exactly calm, but I'm quite normal."

Aya Mama shook her head.

"Normal? What about the incident with Miyoshi Masahiro, Higashinomiya, and Konoe?"

"No, that was..."

That was a negotiation tactic. I've said it many times, but I wasn't really angry or trying to start a fight. But Aya Mama isn't convinced. To her, I'm a hot-tempered troublemaker.

"Aya, there's no need to worry. Instead, tell me about Kannonji Castle. How was it?"

Good one, Grandfather. Aya Mama can be quite persistent.

"Lord Goto and Lord Emon-kami received the greetings. The six people present were Goto, Shintō, Higashine, Mikkawa, Megata, and Hōjō. Hōjō was my attendant."

"Hmm, so the Six Elders were all there. They seem to have taken it seriously."

"Or perhaps they were cautious."

"Better to be respected than underestimated."

That's true. Better to be respected than underestimated. They might have been quite cautious.

"Are you getting married?"

"Yes. Lord Goto suggested strengthening the bond between our families."

Aya Mama sighed. I guess a son's marriage is a complex matter.

"The bride is Hōjō's daughter."

"Hōjō? Lady Yō? She was married to Asai Shinjiro..."

Her voice rose an octave. Please calm down.

"Mother, that's enough."

"But..."

"Mother, while you might not like the idea of a divorced woman, it also shows that the Rokkaku see us as equal to or better than the Asai. The Asai are larger in terms of status, but this isn't a bad match."

She looks dissatisfied. Please understand. Bride bullying is no joke.

"When is the ceremony?"

"May, Grandfather. It was originally scheduled for autumn, but the Rokkaku family suddenly requested May."

It's the rice planting season. To avoid the war season, the ceremony date is limited.

"Then it will be busy. You should complete your coming-of-age ceremony as soon as possible."

"We need to arrange it now. The coming-of-age ceremony should be completed by early March."

"Yes, that would avoid the war season."

By early March, Echizen would still be covered in snow, and the Asakura wouldn't be able to move.

For the future of Kudoki, the Asakura are more troublesome than the Asai. I need to call Jūzō and discuss with Grandfather and great-uncle after Aya Mama leaves. Enemies never run out.