Chapter 99

In the fourth year of Genki (1576), late April, in Hachiman-cho, Seta District, Omi Province, at Hachiman Castle, Kuki Motonao.

Upon returning to his room in Hachiman Castle from Harima, there was, as usual, a letter waiting for him. First, he decided to read the letters from Meme, the chief lady-in-waiting, and Aunt Katsu. They wrote about the matter of the imperial princess's proclamation. Since the marriage of Take was to be in the summer, he had been considering holding the proclamation in the autumn. However, it seemed that the adopted daughter of the chief lady-in-waiting, Ukai, and her uncle, had become pregnant. The birth was expected to be around October. While both were joyous events, the letter expressed concern about the rapid succession of events.

He wanted to say there was no need to worry, but he would send Take to Echigo in August. If a child was born in October, the proclamation would have to be in September or after November. If it was after November, it would be close to the end of the year, which would be busy. There was also the option of waiting until the new year, but he didn't want to delay such a joyous occasion. Aunt Katsu would also be unhappy if her daughter's event was postponed. September it is, he thought. It's not a series of misfortunes, but a series of celebrations. He would reply that September was fine.

However, even if a boy was born, the imperial throne would be difficult to attain. Kusunoki's Atagyo had already given birth to five children, four of whom were boys, though one had died young, leaving three. It was clear that the imperial throne was out of reach. But if a child was born, the family wouldn't have to feel so confined. He would do his best to support them. Ideally, a girl would be better, as she could be married into a powerful noble family, strengthening ties. For a boy, there were fewer options... or rather, there was the option of reviving a defunct family. If revived by a member of the imperial family, they would naturally be favored. This was a viable option.

The problem was with the children born to Atagyo. Ignoring them wouldn't be wise. Fortunately, Kusunoki had connections through the Awa of Wakasa. There were ways to handle the situation. Atagyo herself must be troubled. With three boys, only one could inherit the throne. What to do with the other two? Making them monks would be too harsh. Therefore, it would be in their best interest to ally with him for the future of their sons.

A letter also came from the Chancellor. It mentioned the adoption of Take, and the desire to complete the procedures in Kyoto in June. Essentially, he was being asked to bring Take to Kyoto in June. This was not a problem, and he would inform them that he would go. The letter also mentioned that the poetry project was progressing well. It seemed that the nobles were excited when three of them gathered to create poetry. They were all working hard to come up with poems, with the deadline being the end of May. His uncle, Ukai, was in charge of collecting the poems, so he should ensure they were submitted properly.

Of course, everyone understood what he was thinking and was pleased. There were two reasons. One, they felt needed and appreciated. In the chaotic times, nobles were often seen as useless despite their high ranks, and they often felt powerless. Being asked to help with the wedding preparations was a joy. Moreover, it was for the wedding of the two great powers of the Warring States period. They were naturally enthusiastic.

The other reason was the opportunity to create poetry. Until now, they could only share their poems within their circle or write them in their diaries. But if the poems were written on screens, they would be seen by many and preserved for future generations. This was a significant opportunity. It was like an artist who had never had a solo exhibition suddenly being given one. They would be excited and motivated, even sacrificing sleep to create poetry.

Indeed, such opportunities were necessary. During the height of the aristocratic rule, they had venues to showcase their poetry, music, and arts. But the current nobles lacked such venues. Without them, their skills would deteriorate. Without funds, they would be too busy with daily life to hone their skills, leading to a gradual loss of their cultural heritage. Therefore, the nobles had to travel to regions like the Ouchi, Asakura, Imagawa, and Tosa Ichijo to maintain their livelihoods.

It wasn't just in the regions; cultural and artistic promotion should also be done in Kyoto, the cultural center. If not in Kyoto, it would be meaningless. In this case, he would have to take the lead, as Yoshizumi wouldn't have the foresight or the will to do so. His only concern was causing disturbances. What to do? Yes, start with poetry.

He received a collection of poems this time. They were all excellent and deeply moving. Perhaps he should propose creating a poetry anthology by imperial decree? Everyone could submit their poems, and the best ones would be selected for the anthology. Of course, the expenses would be covered by the Kuki. The anthology could be divided into male and female sections. In this world, where men were esteemed over women, a female-only anthology would be well-received by the ladies. He would ask the Chancellor about this and also about selecting calligraphers from the nobles to write the poems on screens. Who would be suitable? He had heard that the Ukai family was known for calligraphy. He would consult with the Chancellor.

A letter also came from Inokuchi Echizen-no-kami of Kaga. There seemed to be no movement from the Kuroda or Shiina in Echizen. Kagehisa, or rather, Kenshin, had not died but was merely bedridden. It seemed they were waiting to see how things would develop. He would have to remain vigilant in Echizen and warn Miyabe Zenjo坊 in Noto.

A letter also came from Nobunaga. It expressed gratitude for the dispatch of the navy and mentioned Kenshin's illness, suggesting that drinking too much was not good. However, after writing this, Nobunaga mentioned that sugar from Ryukyu would soon arrive and asked for it to be sent. He also mentioned wanting castella, showing his sweet tooth. He was warned about diabetes. Nobunaga seemed to have gained weight recently, which was hard to believe. When he heard this, he didn't understand what was happening.

In reality, Nobunaga was thin because he didn't have the time to gain weight due to the包围网. But in this world, he hadn't been as active, leading to a buildup of calories. On the other hand, he had no time to gain weight and was thin. His nights were spent with Koyae and Yuki, and his days were filled with work. The idea of adding another concubine was daunting. Only a pot could understand his suffering.

The Imagawa of Suruga had finally fled to Odawara. It seemed they could no longer hold on. Nobunaga's letter mentioned that the next target was the Takeda, and that they would be completely destroyed. Nobunaga had a deep hatred for the Takeda. In this world, the Takeda hadn't suffered as much as in reality, but they had still caused problems. For example, Kennyo, who had moved the Ikkō-ikki, was related to the Takeda. This was a significant issue.

The delay in the Oda's conquest of Mino and the deep involvement in the Tokai region were due to the cooperation between the Takeda and the Ikkō-ikki. In reality, Nobunaga's hatred for the Takeda might have been influenced by the Ikkō-ikki. In this world, the Takeda would likely suffer a similar fate, being defeated by the Uesugi and then the Oda. He wasn't directly responsible for their downfall, so it didn't concern him. He was more worried about when the Oda would invade Hida. The bold actions in Harima might have influenced Nobunaga, but for now, there was no need to worry.

"Lord"

The voice belonged to Ishida Saichi. He had an interesting head shape, often described as a mallet. His head and neck did resemble a mallet, with a large, protruding back that suggested a large brain capacity. He looked like a talented individual, though he was a bit too serious. But that was also endearing. His inexperience was charming.

"What is it, Saichi?"

"Hai, Kurono-sama has—"

"Is it Kobuei or Juzo?"

"It's Kobuei-sama."

"Let him in. Saichi, you can leave."

"Hai."

Saichi looked a bit dissatisfied, probably because he didn't like the idea of a private meeting. He needed to be more flexible.

Kobuei entered as Saichi left. Juzo usually stayed in the room as an advisor, which made things a bit awkward. That's why Kobuei often visited his private room. It was surprising to hear that Kobuei's wife, Kiri, had four children, the oldest being thirteen or fourteen and about to leave home. Kobuei sat down in front of him, moving smoothly. He was indeed from the Hachimon, and Juzo had once been like that, though his movements were now slightly stiff due to an injury. It was painful to see.

"Come closer, no need to be formal."

"Hai."

Kobuei moved closer, looking impressive.

"How is it with the Mori?"

He asked in a low voice, and Kobuei smiled slightly.

"Ryuma no Kami Terumoto seems to lack resolve. There is considerable dissatisfaction among his retainers over the abandonment of Ega."

"I see."

The Mori had many Ikkō-ikki followers, so dissatisfaction was expected. Terumoto seemed indecisive, which wasn't bad.

To what extent had he decided to fight the Kuki on his own? If he was pressured by the Ikkō-ikki or Kennyo, he might feel coerced. If so, his lack of resolve was understandable. Moreover, the Mori's direct territory hadn't been attacked, so Terumoto might not feel the urgency. This could lead to frustration.

"What about the Ukita?"

"They seem to be accepting the situation for now."

"Then they believe the betrayal of the Mura?"

Kobuei shook his head slowly.

"Perhaps, but if the Ukita defect, it will affect not only Bizen but also Mimasaka and Bitchu. There is no other choice but to believe."

It seemed they had no choice but to accept the situation... Yes, that would happen. The Ukita and Mori would be wary of each other.

"The Mori are currently trying to suppress the chaos in Mimasaka. Since they have accepted the Ukita, they must crush the Mura, who have defected to the Kuki. The command is led by Kozeki Saemon-suke, but there is criticism within the Mori."

"Did it go well, Kobuei?"

"Quite well."

Kobuei nodded.

There was a possibility that the Mura were being suspected within the Mori. Kobuei had brought this information while he was conquering eastern Harima. It seemed the Mori's spies, the Seki clan, were active. The Mori might be suspicious of the Mura, who had submitted to them despite their rivalry with the Ukita. Terumoto's indecision might be related to this. Reflecting on it now, Terumoto might have just been indecisive, but at the time, that's what he thought.

While he was pondering, the Mori ordered the Mura to mobilize, but the Mori themselves did not. It seemed the Mori were suspicious. Neither the Ukita nor the Mura could be trusted, so there was no mobilization. Since the Mura were suspected by the Mori, they were useless. This was his and Kobuei's judgment. Therefore, they secretly spread the information that the Mura were communicating with the Kuki, even without Kobuei's knowledge. If the Mura and Ukita clashed at the border of Bizen and Mimasaka, the border between Harima and Bizen would be weakened. If the Ukita initiated the conflict, the Mori's suspicion would shift to the Ukita. He didn't expect the Ukita to assassinate the Mura. Two generations assassinated, indeed. The Ukita Naomasa was a true hero of the Warring States period.

With the death of Mura Mototada, the Mura would be in chaos and no longer useful. If he helped the Ukita and supported the Mura, the Mura and Ukita would likely clash again, causing chaos for the Kuki as well. Therefore, he returned to Omi without taking any action. The Mura would be destroyed by the Mori, and the Ukita by the Kuki. The conflict between the Mori and Kuki in Mimasaka was inevitable. The Ukita's position was worse than in reality, and the Mori's position in Mimasaka was also precarious. This was a significant achievement.

This time, he had pushed himself in Harima, bringing as many cannons and firearms as possible. He used both gunpowder and bullets, which was unprecedented. The logistics department was shocked. However, he had successfully conquered Harima in a short time, which was significant. It had thwarted the Mori's plans. He hadn't engaged in a tough battle recently, and the danger of angering the Kuki was now clear to everyone.

In Takeda and Ega, some people had become shell-shocked or regressed to childhood due to trauma. Kobuei's face had also turned pale, muttering that this was different from previous battles. The escape of Koga no Kami from Ochijo Castle was as expected. Now, Ochijo Castle was a base for the Kuki's control of Harima, with Akechi Jubei and ten thousand soldiers. Supporting Jubei were Ruta Genjiro Nobuhisa from the military strategy department and Yamaji Jiroemon Yasuyoshi from the logistics department. Yamaji Iemon was in Shigisan. The brothers would work well together. Ah, yes, he needed to tell Kobuei to drop the Koshi name and return to the Kuroda name.

"What next?"

As he was thinking, Kobuei asked.

"Create chaos in Mimasaka and Bitchu. Spread rumors that the Mura were framed by the Mori, Ukita, or Kuki."

"Even the Kuki?"

Kobuei looked skeptical. He wasn't as perceptive as Juzo.

"Those who benefited this time were the Mori, who gained Mimasaka, and the Ukita, who eliminated the Mura. Even with the Kuki's name, the criticism will be directed elsewhere."

Kobuei nodded. It wasn't about manipulation but about providing choices that would lead to the desired outcome. It was a basic sales technique.

After Kobuei left, he read the next letter. It was from Togi Sosan of Tosa, detailing the battle with the Chosokabe in late February to early March. There was no clear winner. The Chosokabe had retreated due to the Awa's show of force in eastern Tosa. The Kuki navy had also ravaged eastern Tosa, making the Chosokabe's retreat reasonable. The Tosa Ichijo had tried to pursue the retreating enemy but found no opportunity and gave up. Indeed, Chosokabe Motochika was wise.

There was no clear winner, but Motochika must have understood the strategic disadvantage. The Chosokabe were now surrounded by two enemies on land and attacked from the sea. What would he do? This situation would likely cause unrest within his domain. He would call his great-uncle and the Iga ninja to discuss what to do about the Chosokabe. A letter also came from the head of the Tosa Ichijo, Ichijo Kanetane, claiming a great victory and that the Chosokabe had fled in disgrace. What a fool, trying to impress him. He should write the facts. This was ridiculous.

The next letter was from Ashikaga Yoshisuke, the retired shogun of the Hoshima family. It was a thank-you note for his promotion to Junior Third Rank and Acting Middle Counselor. Yes, this set a precedent for treating a retired shogun well. He would spread rumors to make Yoshizumi aware of this. Using the nobles might be better than the Hachimon. He would consult with the Chancellor. A letter also came from Miyoshi Hyuga-no-kami, also thanking him for the promotion. Miyoshi Buzen-no-kami and Adachi Settsu-no-kami were also pleased with Yoshisuke's promotion. It was a good atmosphere.

In the fourth year of Genki (1576), early May, in Haruna Village, Koshigun, Echigo Province, at Haruna Castle, Mekada Tadayasu.

After greeting Uesugi Kenshin and his adopted son, Kagekatsu, he met with Naoe Echizen-no-kami and Nagao Echizen-no-kami in a separate room.

"Mekada-dono, I apologize for the trouble. I am truly sorry, as you can see."

Echizen-no-kami bowed, and Echizen-no-kami also bowed. Both were tense.

"There is no trouble at all. To be honest, I was surprised by how close Omi and Echigo are. I crossed Lake Biwa by boat and then from Tsuruga to Naoetsu, which was quick."

Both smiled, seeming to relax.

"I must congratulate you on your swift conquest of Harima."

"I was surprised by the speed myself."

"It is an honor. I will convey your gratitude to my lord Motonao upon my return."

"Thank you."

He received their formal greetings. Indeed, it was fast, and the Mori must have been shocked, as were they. The conquest of Harima was for Princess Take.

"By the way, how is the matter of making Princess Take the adopted daughter of the Chancellor progressing?"

Echizen-no-kami asked.

"It is proceeding well. In June, she will be adopted by the Chancellor."

"Truly a joyous occasion for the Chancellor and the young lord of Omi."

"Indeed."

Both smiled and nodded.

"May I ask, is there any opposition to Kagekatsu within the Uesugi?"

"Openly, no."

Echizen-no-kami answered, and Echizen-no-kami nodded, looking pained as a father.

"Then, has there been any progress regarding the succession?"

Both shook their heads. Indeed, even with the decision to marry Princess Take, there was no progress on the succession. Kagekatsu was just an adopted son for now. The opposition seemed strong.

"What about if Kagekatsu received an official rank from the court?"

"Such as?"

"Junior Fifth Rank, Deputy Minister of the Left."

Both looked at each other.

"Kenshin also received this rank. It would be like following in Kenshin's footsteps."

"Meaning Kagekatsu will succeed him?"

Echizen-no-kami murmured, and Echizen-no-kami nodded, saying, "I see."

"Indeed, even if not stated, everyone will understand. The court granting an official rank means the court recognizes Kagekatsu as Kenshin's successor."

His words made both of them ponder. He understood their feelings. Lord Motonao was skilled at using the court. The court, in turn, could not look down on the husband of the Chancellor's adopted daughter. They would likely be more proactive in showing favor.

"Would it be acceptable if I request this from the court with Kenshin's approval?"

Both looked at each other and nodded.

"Please wait a moment. We will confirm our lord's thoughts."

Echizen-no-kami said, and both hurried out of the room. Kenshin would likely not refuse