Oda Nobuna no Yabou - Volume 9 - Chapter 5

Chapter 5 : The rout of Harima (Part two) 

Around the same time, 

Wakasa 

Facing the Coast of Japan Sea, this land, governed by Niwa Nagahide was gradually stabilizing. 

“The forces of the Oda clan are coming!” 

Reactions like this aren't few and from that, riots were abundant at first, but the gentle Nagahide steadily and quietly settled things down, and was able to grasp the hearts of the people of Wakasa in time. 

Nagahide likes to listen to the opinions and reports of various people for work-related matters and though it takes time, the work done is reliable. 

Leading the Northern troops, Shibata Katsuie was facing the formidable enemy Uesugi Kenshin. 

Being assigned with the role of the guard of the capital, Akechi Mitsuhide is currently launching a furious attack on Tamba. 

Takigawa Kazumasu who had almost single-handedly conquered the vast country Ise by herself was now embarked on strengthening her naval forces. 

Being appointed as the commander of the Chuugoku conquering forces, Sagara Yoshiharu is currently fighting with the Mori clan. 

Out of the 4 Oda clan Devas and Saru, only Niwa Nagahide is peacefully being the master of Wakasa. 

Of course as a Daimy?, Nagahide have her own "Niwa clan retainers" that belongs to her but all they were unhappy about not having any achievements from the peaceful work they are doing.. 

In Wakasa, there's no land that Nagahide can conquer nor enemy Nagahide had to face.. 

And so, there's no achievements that can be achieved like what the retainers hope. 

“Our princess is just not ambitious enough.” 

These were the remarks of her vexed retainers. 

To the retainers, Nagahide would always ignore it with a smile. 

“There must always be someone doing the backstage chores.” 

Using this tension lacking sentence to handle her retainers. 

But ever since Nagahide came to Wakasa, she does not seem to be in the spirit of things.. 

Her complexion was not too good. 

And there is no vitality in her either. 

Among the retainers, there were rumors why is she like that. "Hime-sama actually wanted to go to the forefront" ”It seems so” ”Even though she said that this is 100 pts and was the right thing to do, but in her heart it’s a 0 pts” 

But in fact, she was not depressed because she is the Daimy? of Wakasa now. 

But the true reason was that now all of the retainers were scattered, she was worried for Nobuna and Yoshiharu. 

While looking at Wakasa bay from the window of her Honmaru, Nagahide decided in her heart. 

For Nobuna’s ambitions and dreams, she couldn’t understand. 

Nobuna’s existence has surpassed the common sense of the people of this country and was far beyond removed from this era. 

Like the sea in front of her eyes, the dream of Nobuna was too vast. 

Nagahide couldn’t understand why an unprecedented genius like her would suddenly appear on this small island that has no world-renowned heroes. 

Perhaps the prayers of the people of this country that wishes to end this dreadful cycle of war led to the birth of Nobuna in this country. 

However, Nagahide understands more than anyone the maiden heart of the girl named Nobuna. 

Nobuna’s heart will, in different situations and different times, show different expressions on her face. 

At times when she’s calm, she is like a wave that gently sways at the shore of a beach, and she’s like a raging tsunami when she’s angry. 

And when the people see that face full of fury, they tend to look upon her like a demon. 

Her love was too deep. 

Not just her intellect and talent, even on the extent of her emotions, she was abnormal. 

Is the fact that she was not loved by her mother Tsuchida Gozen as a child related? 

(When Nobuhide-sama died, the heart of Hime-sama was in a verge of collapse.) 

Oda Nobuhide had found the latent potential in her and has continued to encourage Nobuna and at the day of his funeral. 

Nobuna had barged at the funeral with a foolish appearance which consists of a sword hanging on her waist with a gourd and a hairstyle for a widow. 

Furthermore, she took the incense from the memorial tablet of Nobuhide and thrown it while angrily shouting “Father!” and left furiously after that. 

As the eldest, Nobuna has the right to inherit the position of daimyo than Nobukatsu but this resulted to another problem. 

“Oda clan will surely collapse if we let this princess inherit the family estate“, said by Tsuchida Gozen that was still furious at Nobuna for messing up the funeral of her husband. 

Nobuna‘s chief adviser, Grandfather Hirata had said that he was willing to prepare his own funeral to amend for what her lord had done but the new lord had left the place after hearing it. 

And Nagahide followed after her. 

She thought that Nobuna might have gone to the festival where the late Nobuhide had always brought her every year at Tsushima for sight-seeing. 

And as Nagahide expected, Nobuna was there in the port of the river. 

Every items and equipments were sprawled all over the place and some makiwara ships were washed away in the river. 

Nobuna, with her mouth bend in a “?” character, was glaring with teary eyes at the vast blue sky. 

“So here you are Hime-sama” 

“So it’s Manchiyo, de aru ka” 

“It’s not “de aru ka” Hime-sama, what you have just done there was very improper, 0 pts” 

“Hmph, it’s just a waste of time; even if we held many more funerals, it won’t bring father back” 

“Even so, you must not make any more trouble, what would happen if the people that follow you turned against you Hime-sama?” 

“Then how about you Manchiyo?” 

“......Hime-sama. Looking at the sky is good and all but please don’t directly look at the sun. It will blur your eyes” 

“I know that, you don’t have to say it” 

“How about wearing the Namban black glasses?” 

“Wearing glasses is not really my hobby” 

Nobuna’s tantrum has ended at that moment. 

And she was also at her limits playing a brave front. 

While showing a gentle smile in her face, Nagahide let Nobuna rest in her lap and when she was fully laid down in her lap, Nobuna started to cry. 

“Hurting yourself is not good; your Otou-sama won’t be happy seeing you like this you know? 0 pts" 

Nagahide said this while gently stroking Nobuna’s hair. 

Ever since she served this obscure little princess that was younger than her, Nagahide have committed herself to understand the true heart of Nobuna. 

The more she understands the loneliness of Nobuna, the more she gets frustrated that she doesn’t have enough power to help her. 

But she still stayed by her side. 

Because this was the only thing she could do to support her. 

“Perhaps this is my duty for now” this is what Nagahide had thought at that time. 

In actuality, this role was originally for Tsuchida Gozen as her mother. 

Or this should be the case. 

But strangely, Tsuchida Gozen had rejected Nobuna. 

And this was already happening ever since Nobuna was a child. 

“When we learned that the Namban missionary had died, Hime-sama was also hurting herself like this.” 

“…… Dearuka.” 

“In times like this, please let me pamper you; it’s not good to hurt yourself, I’m sure Hirate-dono would surely say the same thing.” 

“Grandfather Hirata, won’t die right?” 

“Hime-sama....” 

“…… Manchiyo, all the people that I loved have all died. Those people who are willing to understand and believe me died one by one.” 

After losing that Namban missionary, one of the few people that understood Nobuna, her loving father Nobuhide died too; a deep despair and loneliness that a normal person couldn’t bear was invading her, this is what Nagahide felt. 

Someday. 

Someday, will there be a someone who could truly understand this girl with a petite body that has a hidden huge dream? Nagahide wondered when that day would come. 

“I don’t believe what Hime-sama has said, it’s too unreasonable, so don’t think it that way okay? Hime-sama.” 

Nagahide gently raised Nobuna and held her in her tight embrace. 

“Please Manchiyo, stay away from me or I might give you some misfortune, it’s better to be not too close to me.” 

“It was just a coincidence.” 

“No it’s not! Look at my mother who despise me, she is very healthy~!” 

“Hime-sama, you must not say a word that hurts yourself” 

“Manchiyo too, you will also die!” 

“I will never leave your side Hime-sama” 

At that time, Nagahide have resolved herself that until that “someone” appears, she will stay by the side of the princess. 

“And fortunately, I am a fool. So I'm sorry, but I will never leave your side Hime-sama, and don’t worry, I won’t die before Hime-sama does, 50pts.” 

With bright red eyes and a messy face, Nobuna gave a hug at her. 

“Hime-sama, following the burning in Kyo, Matsunaga Hisahide of Yamato had led a rebellion against us” 

"What should we do?" 

Nagahide had returned to reality from her reminiscencing by the loud voices of her retainers. 

Because she’s a fool, she coudn’t understand Nobuna’s dream. 

However, she could read the hearts of the people around her. 

That’s why she could tell that Matsunaga Hisahide had her reasons why she needed to revolt and picked this timing to do it. 

Nagahide was vaguely able to tell the intention of why Hisahide did this. 

“Quickly, all forces march to Kyo” 

Nagahide had stood up slowly. 

“Perhaps with this, the scattered retainers of the Oda clan will be able to unite together again, but taking into account the feelings of Hime-sama, this is only 50 pts.” 

Nagahide’s retainers couldn’t understand what was the meaning behind the words of their lord was. 

While they are thinking why their lord only graded this incident by 50 pts, they bent their heads like that of a “P” character and were wondering whether it was good or bad. 

“Losing something will surely make her strong but the question is how to fill the void in her heart, and right now she is in a very unstable condition and it might overflow. At this moment, Hime-sama was having a hard time” 

Kaga 

Shibata Katsuie who was leading the Hokuriku district troops from Echizen was now in the neighboring country Kaga and was going to Daishoji Castle where the Uesugi army was based. 

There were 3 countries between and before Echizen and Echigo, and those were Kaga, Etchuu and Noto. 

Depending on who will win, either Shibata Katsuie or Uesugi Kenshin, they would be able to have these 3 countries by themselves and this would greatly affect the flow of the warring state period in their favor. 

While Uesugi Kenshin was battling Takeda Shingen at Kawanakajima, at that moment Katsuie had marched out in Echizen. There was a truce between the Oda clan and Takeda Shingen for this event. 

But Ashikaga Yoshiaki had interfered and became the mediator between Takeda and Uesugi and thus the battle had ceased and they reconciled. 

Because of this, Uesugi Kenshin had barricaded all the possible escape routes to Echizen for Katsuie and her troops to retreat. 

And Uesugi Kenshin was leading her Echigo army in lightning fast pace to invade Kaga. 

And currently, the Uesugi army has made Daishoji castle their base and was waiting for Katsuie’s troops for a decisive battle. 

Katsuie had steeled herself not to siege Daishoji castle recklessly and would only do it if there is chance and she was even willing to wait even if it takes years for that, and if by chance that opportunity came, the Hokuriku district troops anxieties might vanish, while thinking that, Katsuie was gobbling her onigiri. 

And of course, with miso in it. 

The people of Owari in the Warring State period like it that way. 

Katsuie said that this food that contains miso in it was an excellent food in the battlefield diet. 

The trinity of the rice, salt and miso is just the best. 

If it’s said in the modern day, it’s calories, salt and protein. 

And she could eat the whole onigiri in one bite. 

However. 

“Wh- what? Matsunaga Hisahide of Yamato had revolted against Hime-sama?” 

“………..This is the second time she did this” 

“Wh- why did this happen!? What will happen to Hime-samaaaaa!?” 

Maeda Inuchiyo had reported the “revolt of Matsunaga Hisahide”, while muttering “I want to eat some rice cakes……” with tear-filled eyes to Katsuie. 

“Let’s march back to Kyo and help Hime-sama quickly, Inu!” 

“......But” 

“Huh? What’s wrong?” 

“…… The Uesugi army is just in front of us here, if we retreat now, Katsuie will be labeled as a deserter and your reputation might get ruined” 

For Katsuie who was known as a brave general, being labeled as a deserter would haunt her for a lifetime. 

Furthermore, the enemy in front of her was known as the “God of War”, Uesugi Kenshin. 

She won’t let herself retreat that easily without a fight occurring between them. 

“Huh, even though I want to help Hime-sama, I don’t even know how to get out of this place, I’m not that good at thinking!” 

Katsuie shared her onigiri reluctantly to Maeda Inuchiyo who was muttering “I’m hungry”. 

“Inu, eat this” 

“...... *MUNCH* ......” 

“Sorry, I don’t have any rice cakes here” 

“......Those words, it kind of reminds me of Ojii-sama” 

“Oh, the Chief Adviser? How nostalgic, it really did feels like it’s a long time ago.” 

Nobuna’s father, the Daimy? Oda Nobuhide of Owari had continued to fight Imagawa Yoshimoto of the East and Saito Dousan of the North, and even though he kept losing battle after battle, because of his unyielding heart, he was feared at that time. 

However, he was still young when he suddenly got ill, and even when he received many treatments and prayers, he eventually still died. 

According to one theory, the cause of his death was eating too much miso. The salt that came from his favorite miso had accumulated in his body and had triggered his blood pressure to rise and because of this, some of his blood vessels in his brain were getting clogged and while this was happening he made some ”Uh!,oh!,Uhh!” sounds, and eventually resulted to a stroke and his death. 

Being the successor and labeled the “Fool Princess”, Nobuna in a foolish appearance had barged at the funeral and took the incense from the memorial tablet of Nobuhide and sprawled all of the contents and it shocked all the retainers that were present that day. 

It was said that the Princess was so angry that time that she attempted to kill all monks that offered a prayers of healing to Nobuhide. 

“It is the end for Oda Clan of Owari” this was the talk of the town folks. 

Because of this rumors, some of the retainers advised that the second child, Nobukatsu-sama (And at present is called Nobusumi) should succeed the position. 

At that time, Katsuie was still the chief retainer of Nobukatsu. 

But even at that time, Katsuie’s loyalty laid only at Nobuna. 

If this continues, the princess’ position would be in danger. 

But at that time, the grandfather-like figure to Nobuna and Inuchiyo, Chief adviser Grandfather Hirate was there. 

And because of Katsuie and Grandfather Hirate’s persuasion, the retainers that supported Nobukatsu have stopped advising this and Nobuna’s position as the lord was saved. 

However, Katsuie was not good at things that uses the brain and was only good at eating like Inuchiyo but much faster than her. 

So with his withered body that you won’t be surprised if it collapsed suddenly, Grandfather Hirate who had sworn loyalty to Nobuna, was the one who almost did all the persuasion. 

At that moment, Nobuna who just lost his father was in a daze so she wasn’t able to do a thing back then. 

Then one day. 

Grandfather Hirate suddenly called Katsuie and Inuchiyo to an old Tea room and asked them to assist him in his seppuku. 

“I will, commit seppuku so that to amend for the “Foolish act” Hime-sama have done, in that Man’s funera-, *COUGH*” 

Katsuie was in a panic. 

‘Sto- sto- stop it! Chief adviser!” 

“No, I won’t stop, Gonroku” 

“Call me Riku!” 

Katsuie involuntarily smacked Grandfather Hirate and had let out a “Guha!” sound, and Granfather was almost taken to heaven. 

“Guhhaa!!, Granny? Its Granny, am I in the river of Styx?......” 

*Thump*. 

“Ah! Sorry Chief adviser, please don’t die!!” 

“…… Katsuie killed Jii-sama” 

“Ah! i- it’s my fault!?” 

“…… Wait a minute~! Inu! Let’s forget about the funeral for now, if the news that the Gonroku have beaten an old man to death it would be an outrageous scandal! Uh, uhh *SOB*” 

“……Jii-sama is still alive” 

“Uwaaaaaa~~! Good grief, Chief adviser is still alive~!” 

While coughing, grandfather Hirate got up and narrowly escaped death for now and tried to persuade Inuchiyo and Katsuie why he wanted to do this. 

“Listen, Gonroku and Puppy, I can’t blame Hime-sama for being irrational right now, losing his loving father in such a young age, I know the feeling very well. However, if this continues the Oda clan will be dividing to factions.” 

“Didn’t I say call me Riku~~! *SOB*” 

“…… So that’s why you want to commit Seppuku?” 

“That’s right, if it’s me her adviser who have been together with Hime-sama ever since she was born, will have a funeral, she will surely stop her foolish acts. Hime-sama is truly a sweet child; she will certainly listen to this old man’s last wish” 

It was a good story but the ending was way too tragic. 

“I already have a terminal illness because of my age, my days in this world is already nearing its end but being able to offer this body of mine for Hime-sama, I’m truly happy” 

However, the usual deadpan Inuchiyo strongly opposed by saying “No~~!” with eyes bright red. 

“NO! NO~! NO~~! If Hime-sama heard that you committed Seppuku-!’ 

Inuchiyo didn’t continued what she was saying. No, she couldn’t continue it because she was crying too hard. “Uh! Uhh~! Uuhhh~~! Uwaaa~~!” her wail could be heard outside of the Tea room. 

Her emotion burst out and she repeatedly said “NO! NO~! NO~~!” like that of a child that was throwing a tantrum. 

So Katsuie was the only one who could convince him to stop. 

Persuading others was not Katsuie’s forte, as it was proven last time. But she had no choice; she needed to convince that old man to stop. 

“Sh- she is right! You mustn’t do it! Of all the people here you should know it very well Chief Adviser; you’re just going to hurt Hime-sama even more, so please don’t do it!” 

“Ahh, Gonroku, you” 

“If someone like you who is precious to Hime-sama, that she even look up as her Grandfather dies because of her, Hime-sama’s heart surely won’t be able to bear it and it would leave a scar for the rest of her life~!” 

“……I see Gonroku” 

“Even if Hime-sama does straighten her act, surely one day her emotion will overflow and it will happen again, she doesn’t need to see you at your funeral~! What she needs is you being by her side~!” 

“I have always thought that you are just a brute warrior with a cow-like breast…… but I didn’t knew that you could read Hime-sama’s heart that I should have been able to do too” 

“Even I don’t know the world Hime-sama is talking about. But she is not a fool! I just said it myself that Hime-sama had just lost her father, what would she think if the Chief adviser who was there for her ever since she’s born, the one that she looks up as her grandfather also died, I don’t know what she will feel about this, Hime-sama will surely-“ 

“Gonroku is absolutely right, because of my old age I get confused so easily these days” 

“I said call me Riku~!” 

*BANG!* 

“GUHAA~! Will you stop that Gonroku? If this continues I’ll really die!” 

“If chief adviser just called me Riku, this would have been finished already!” 

“Is that so? I’m really getting old to forget about that. *COUGH*” 

“Grandpa, please don’t die ok?......I’m hungry” 

“Hey, will you stop crying already!” 

“Puppy, I don’t have any rice cakes but I have rice balls, come here and eat it” 

“……*MUNCH*” 

“Good thing you like it, but I kind of feel bad because it’s not a rice cake” 

Because of Katsuie and Inuchiyo’s strong objection, Grandfather Hirate had cancelled his own funeral. 

After that, the terminal illness of Grandfather Hirate had progressed, and he eventually retired. In his sickbed in Shirotaku he was watched by Nobuna, Katsuie and Inuchiyo, and his relative, and after that Grandfather Hirate peacefully passed away. 

It was a pleasant death. 

Even without committing seppuku, Grandfather Hirate’s concern was conveyed to Nobuna. 

And after Grandfather Hirate’s death, Nobuna’s foolish acts ceased. 

“…… At that time, Katsuie was able to stop grandpa, even though you’re a muscle head” 

“Muscle head!? It’s none of your business~!” 

“And your boobs are too big” 

“That’s even more none of your business~~!” 

“Frustrating, be cursed” 

“Hmm? What do you mea- “ 

“…… You were able to save Hime-sama and grandpa, so thank you very much” 

*PEKORI* Inuchiyo bowed while stuffing her mouth with onigiri to Katsuie. 

“Stop that Inu, anyway if we just fight them once and lose, we have a valid reason to retreat” 

“…… Losing, we will lose in purpose?” 

“Even if my name gets tarnished, if it’s for Hime-sama, I’ll gladly do it.” 

“…… If that really happened, you might have problems in our clan in the future” 

“I don’t care. I only fight for Hime-sama’s dream. I can’t face the chief adviser if I did things that opposed what I promised to him that day.” 

“…… Then …… Katsuie is” 

“Uesugi Kenshin is known for her justice, if we escape tonight she will chase and annihilate us but if we fight her courageously, even if we are defeated and retreat, the god of war will surely give mercy to us and let us escape” 

“…… Katsuie is never going to get married” 

“Wh- wh- wh- why~~!” 

“…… The way you live is way too awkward” 

“It can’t be helped~! I like Hime-sama~!” 

“……Your only interested in girls?......” 

“A- a- a- a- a- a- ar- ar- are you stupid~~! I didn’t mean it in that way” 

Katsuie and Inuchiyo, “Let’s get defeated by the Uesugi army and retreat to Kyo shall we?” “…… Let’s do that” have come to that decision. 

Ise Inlands 

The Kuki navy fleet had now reached the Kumano Beach that faces the Pacific Ocean. 

The Kuki pirates’ promised servitude to Takigawa Kazumasu had changed themselves and were now worthy to be called a “Naval Fleet”. 

And on the flagship deck, Takigawa Kazumasu and Kuki Onee-san were just lazily sun bathing while watching the schools of whale, and to add to it Kuki Onee-san was exposing her stomach and as per usual were not doing their works. 

And both of them didn't want to go back to the land anymore. 

“What a nice weather, this must be what they call “clear blue sky”, isn’t that right Kuki~” 

“Yes! Under this vast blue sky and this large sea, one can forget the worries that she is not in a marriageable age anymore~!” 

“But I think you should be bothered about your marriage though, kusu kusu” 

“But in our entire fleet, there is not even a single man around here~!” 

“But we have, that fellow that came from Namban, the one with the stunning red hair. Giovanna-chan right?” 

And apparently, that Giovanna that who knows when got in friendly terms with Kazumasu and her pirates was in the deck doing some chores while eating some special delicacy of Ise, the Anko mochi. 

“…… This Anko mochi is delicious, too delicious. It’s so delicious that I can eat this forever *MUNCH**MUNCH**MUNCH*” 

Ever since Giovanna came, the rations of the Kuki pirates were diminishing in a rapid rate. 

“Hime-sama~! Even though she looks and acts like a man that person is a woman~!” 

“Is that so~?” 

“Yes it is~!” 

“Then at this rate, if you can’t find a man, why not just pick a woman~? Kusu kusu” 

“Hime-sama, you’re so cruel~! If this Kuki Yoshitaka, that is the Captain of the famed Kuki pirates would become so low to marry another woman, then I’m better off being a bait to the whales than to get married~!” 

“I see, and here I was thinking that this cute princess will be Kuki~’s bride, but if you say it like that then I better give up now~” 

“Ahh~! No, if it’s Hime-sama, it’s another matter, and if you want we can held the ceremony right now~!” 

“Boss~~!!! Don’t monopolize Hime-sama for yourself~~!!!” these were the complaints of the girls of the Kuki pirates while dropping their works just to complain to their boss. 

And at the same moment. 

A pigeon has nested itself in the head of Kazumasu while gently landing. 

“Mu? A carrier pigeon that has a letter for Hime-sama?” 

“Oh, it’s not a letter from Frois-chan but from Orugan-chan [11] that accompanied her to Kyo. Is this a Love letter? Is it because he can’t take out this cute little princess from his mind that he sent a love letter to me?” 

“No, he is the type of guy that just seeing a girl makes him scared so I think that’s not the case here” 

“But if he overcame his fear and started to love Hime-sama …… if that happens, tsk~” 

“So what does it says” 

“Yamoto’s Hisashi~ had rebelled. Right now Nobuna-chan is in a pinch, that’s what it says” 

“Hime-sama, even though your good at giving pet names, isn’t that nickname too forced?” 

“Anyway, Hisashi~ or Matsunaga Danjo right now is a pain” 

“What should we do? Shall we go back? 

“kusu kusu. We already reached Kumano beach, it’s already too late to go back” 

“Yes it’s already too late but if this continues, what will happen to the Oda Clan?” 

“Umu …… If Nobuna-chan dies …… it’s the end for the Oda clan” 

“I will always follow Hime-sama until the end, and will obey whatever you decide” 

The previous name of Kazumasu was Takigawa Sakon and was the daughter of the Koga ninja. 

The house of Takigawa was one of the upper class among Koga ninjas and could be said to be the best among them because they were not just ordinary ninjas. 

The Koga ninja was a kingdom itself and had a hidden fortress that was deep in the rugged mountains, and they had very few contacts with the outside world. 

With the exception of when they receive a job as a ninja. 

However, for Kasumazu, it was a place that only gave her anxiety and pressure when she was there in the Koga clan. 

Even though they called her “Hime”, for some reason, they kept their distance from her. 

Was it because of the ability of Kazumasu? 

Even the loving father that pampered the young Kasumazu, by the passage of time did the same and treated her like a child that is being kept just because of being asked by a friend. 

And one faithful day, Kazumasu heard some rumors from the maid servants. “That child doesn’t have the blood of the house of Takigawa”. 

After hearing the rumors, Kazumasu anxieties grew day by day, thinking that she might not be a member of the Koga clan. 

And then followed an unexpected accident or perhaps an assassination, her father died but his body’s whereabouts were not found. 

The young Kasumazu had fled from Koga after that. 

And became a rogue ninja. 

Or should have happened back then. 

She blindly fled to the sea. 

She wanted to know and see the vast sea and did not want to bother anything related to the Koga ninjas. 

And at midnight, Kazumasu had fainted from hunger at the Tsushima port town of Owari. 

On the river, there were countless lantern-carrying marikawa ships that were being washed away by the stream. 

Just a little more and I could almost be able to ride that boat but my body won’t listen to me anymore. 

While the small drums beat, a beautiful maiden that was not from this world had appeared and walked to the place where Kazumasu lied. 

And this maiden knelt down and helped the tattered Kazumasu to get up. 

And this beautiful but sharp maiden, for some reason looked very lonely behind her smile. 

“What’s the matter? Are you lost, what’s your name?” 

“…… A rogue ninja of Koga, Takigawa Kazumasu” 

Kazumasu knew that this maiden was not one of the ninjas who came to bring her back, this is what she understood. 

Such eyes full of loneliness, Kazumasu didn’t see this kind of eyes in the Koga clan. 

“I see, you’re so young for being a rogue ninja, you’re really something that you were able to come here in Tsushima from where you come from” 

The maiden caressed the cheeks of Kazumasu. 

This was the first time in a long time that someone showed kindness to her. 

Then Kazumasu started to cry. 

“I, I don’t have any place to call my home anymore” 

“Why? You can go back to Koga right?” 

“…… The sea, I wanted to see it” 

“The sea? Why?” 

“My …… position as the princess …… of the Koga clan is now gone. But if I go to the other end of the sea, perhaps maybe……” 

The word that she wanted to say came to stop there. 

And now she was embraced by the maiden and then she started to cry even louder. 

“I beg of you, will you take me in, Hime-sama?” 

The maiden whispered to Kazumasu “Me too, I don’t have a place to go back too” and after that she made Kazumasu to stand. 

“Then shall we go, Sakon” 

“…… Where?” 

“To Dance” 

“Is there a festival tonight?” 

“In my life, everyday is a festival, Sakon” 

“Everyday ……” 

When the maiden gave a bright smile, it was clear and refreshing, but more importantly, it was very beautiful. 

For Kazumasu, this smile that the maiden showed to her. 

And she have thought that she won’t ever forget this smile for the rest of her life. 

“From now on, let’s be together forever, even in the other end of the sea” 

“Hime-sama?” 

“Oh my, I just reminisced something from the past” 

“For someone so young, I don’t think such bitter words suit you” 

“Well, I just can’t forget when Nobuna-chan said “please~, let’s find a place to rest~?” and that night we shared a passionate rest together. Kusu kusu” 

“I’m so jealous~! Grrrr~~” 

“Kuki~, even though Nobuna-chan is stingy and sucks at preparing tea, to me, she is like my Aneki so it’s a given that we come to her aid if she is in a pinch” 

Kuki Yoshitaka rolled up her sleeves. 

“Then it’s settled! But then again, it took quite some time before you decided, right! Let’s go!” 

“Well, I'm kinda at loss because if we go to her we will lose our leisurely trip. Kusu kusu” 

“I can’t get enough of that mischievous smile Haa~~ Haa~~, but If we don’t hurry and go back to land from Ise. It will be too late for us to help” 

“If we follow the sea route, we are now on Kumano beach of southern tip of Kishu. So let’s sail to north and land in Sakai and then start to move from there.” 

“Yes ma’am! With the blow of the wind right now, this might work~!” 

“Kumano beach has a strange flow of current, so Kuki~ are you okay with that? Kusu kusu” 

“For the Kuki pirates, no, for the Kuki navy fleet, the ocean is like our backyard so don’t you worry about it Hime-sama!” 

The fleet that was in front of Kumano beach had simultaneously steered their wheels. 

While going north, Kazumasu remembered the promise she made with the maiden that she danced with in the night of the festival of Tsushima. 

“I want to go with Hime-sama, no; I want to go with Nobuna-chan to the other side of the sea” 

On the west bank of Lake Biwa, there was the Oumizo Castle that was being erected there. 

The castle was surrounded with water making it a natural water fortress, and this architecture technique was learned by the wise Mitsuhide. 

While at the bank looking at the vast lake Biwa, the master of Oumizo Castle, Tsuda Nobusumi was lost in thought. 

Yamato’s Matsunaga Hisahide had revolted. 

And now, his sister Nobuna that was at Kyo, was in a dangerous situation. 

For Nobuna who loved to raise arson, thinking that no one would rebel against her was a foolish way of thinking. 

Even though he’s weak, this was not the time to hesitate and he should go to Kyoto. 

And he promised that his life was for Nobuna to use. 

But still, he was a little anxious. 

So he waited and watched the situation at first. 

He wanted to be forgiven, but he wanted to stay here in Oumizu castle even for another day. 

Because. 

“Oichi’s condition …… yesterday and even now is still pretty bad” 

So. 

Oichi or once called Asai Nagamasa, Nobusumi’s first wife, had suddenly collapsed one day at midnight. 

This morning, the doctor Manase Belchior had rushed there to look at Oichi’s condition. 

“Today and tomorrow are critical for her” 

That’s what Manase Belchior said. 

Nobusumi was hoping to stay with her at least after she passed the critical stage. 

Matsunaga Hisahide still had not sieged Honnou Temple, and instead she was wasting her time battling the armed monks in Nara. 

Besides, if Hisahide really had sieged Honnou Temple, Nobusumi would already have received reports that “Nobuna is dead” by now. 

I know that Aneue would be fine even if I’m late to assist her, but if I leave now, I don’t know what would happen to Oichi. 

“Huh? ...... What am I thinking, it’s a given that there are no other options but to march and assist Aneue, but even though I say that” 

And first of all, for Oichi and his sake, Nobuna bared the unpleasant title of “the demon that slain Nagamasa and made his skull into a cup and drank from it” for deceiving the country for their sake. 

Oichi understood this too. 

(That’s right. It’s not because I’m worried about Oichi’s condition, it’s just because I’m weak. Who was the one who gave us these blissful days? It was all because of Aneue. Who was the one that sacrificed herself so that we could enjoy this country and build our home, it’s all thanks to Aneue right?) 

I don’t need to say good bye to Oichi, I’m just going to Kyo to help. 

Nobusumi had decided. 

He was going to climb up the castle and go to the bedroom of Oichi. 

However. 

Surprisingly, Oichi was at the hall, waiting for his return, no, she was seeing him off. 

“Kanjuro, please immediately march to Kyo, this is not the time to worry about me, please help Aneue right now” 

“Wh- why are you here Oichi, you should be resting right now!” 

“I’m sorry if I made you worried Kanjuro, but I’m fine, I don’t have any illness at all” 

“Eh? You don’t have one? But you were just suffering the other day right?” 

“Yes, but according to Doctor Manase Belchior, I’m in fact …… ” 

And suddenly she fainted and Nobusumi was in panic, thinking about “the revolt of Matsunaga Hisahide” ”Oichi’s sickness” and “Nobuna’s dilemma”. It took some time before he could “cool his head” in the bank of the lake. 

“But he said that today and tomorrow are critical for you right?” 

“Yes, it was a little dangerous but I overcame it” 

“No, I think it’s really is an illness!” 

“No, it’s not an illness” 

“I don’t understand what you’re saying! Where is doctor Manase~!?” 

“He left for a long journey because Matsunaga Danjo Hisahide had revolted” 

“What!? I can’t understand a thing about this anymore~!” 

Oichi helped Nobusumi who was so confused right now and told him the results of Doctor Manase Belchior’s examination of what was happening in her body. 

After hearing it, Nobusumi was like a someone who’s been struck by a lightning. 

Is that so? 

So that was it. 

Now I get it! 

“Aha ha ha, I’m, as usual, such a big fool, I actually thought that Aneue is going to be alright, why I …… why did I think something that stupid ……!” 

“Is it because of this that you won’t leave our home, Kanjuro?” 

“As if! I was going to your room to say good bye! Because I will immediately march to Kyo!” 

“I see, I’m sorry if I didn’t cleared things up to you immediately” 

“Oichi no, I’m the one who needs to apologize. I’m the one who was at loss because of this crisis, but I was also worried about your body Oichi ……” 

Oichi then said “you’re such a kind man, that part of you is really the same as Aneue” with a wry smile. 

“Kanjuro, don’t worry too much here and go to Aneue’s aid. Take care, my love” 

“Ok, I’ll be going then!” 

There was a mountain fort located at the west side of Tamba. 

Akechi Mitsuhide who continued to march toward Tamba to pacify it was at the base of Yakami Castle and was waiting for them to surrender. 

There were many powerful nobles from different countries in Tamba. 

Mitsuhide had persuaded all of these nobles one by one to ally with the Oda clan and with time, the nobles had come to their side one after another. 

Of course, the world of the Warring States isn’t kind enough to allow all the nobles of Tamba to be persuaded through just negotiations, eventually there would have to be a bloodshed. 

So to not waste her time, Mitsuhide didn’t pursue anymore those who refused to give deference to the Oda Clan. 

To prove them that the era of the Oda clan is coming, Mitsuhide had confronted these nobles to make them understand this, even if it meant using force. 

In military or diplomatic meetings, Mitsuhide was able to obtain victory in both of them. 

And in this busy cycle, she was also able to supervise the construction of Oumizo castle where Nobusumi is the master. 

Certainly, she was able to perform it all perfectly. 

And the only one remaining to be siege was the renowned mountains fort of Tamba, Yamaki castle. 

“If I could quickly pacify Tamba, then Sagara-senpai can happily marry me~” 

Recently, this was the only thought that ran through the head of Mitsuhide who was full of vigor. 

Although Mitsuhide only had a few troops with her, because of her silver tongue and intelligence, she was able to persuade the nobles of Tamba to ally with the Oda Clan and win wars in systematic ways and strategies without flaws and was now in a favorable situation. 

However compared to Sagara Yoshiharu who was now in Harima and having a hard time, Mitsuhide was not having any problem at all in Tamba and was proceeding at a good pace. She was faster in pacifying this country than Yoshiharu who was struggling to do so. 

One could say that this conquest was destined for Mitsuhide. 

Yamaki castle was the worst type of enemy and was not surrendering even after a month had passed. 

The casualties kept increasing, time was dragging and resentment was rising while days passed. 

So the master of the Yamaki castle was encouraged by the others to surrender to the Oda clan. 

Mitsuhide was favoured in high respect by the powerful nobles of Tamba. 

And so they won’t break the promise they made carelessly. 

Even if there were problems in the nobles, once she used her silver tongue, they would always succumb to her offer. 

“Now, if you do not serve the Oda Clan, you might lose your independence and have an income gap of 30 years. But if you join us now, your income will grow 3 folds compared to now, and you will be able to enter all you want to the Oda Clan’s prestigious hot springs, but of course there will be funds taken worth 1 month for the use of the facilities. We also have retirement benefits, we will give you 1 cup of tea a day, because I don’t mind doing that much. Now! Pledge loyalty to the Oda Clan and have a vast and happy future~!” 

With such fast pace to give a long speech in such a short time, the nobles were twisting their neck and were saying “Umuu, it’s kind of incomparable” and pledged deference to the clan clueless. 

Of course, the reputation of the Akechi military troops was really good with the people. 

And at long last, the master of Yamaki castle succumbed to her offer. 

And with this, the pacification of Tamba was completed. 

“Now that I have finally pacified Tamba, shall I go to Harima and aid Sempai? Well, even though Juubei doesn’t want too, he IS my future husband so I think it’s better to assist him.” 

Mitsuhide was in good spirits that day. 

While she was at her base, she was humming "Now that I conquered Yamaki castle~ shall I go to Mount Atago and kill some time there~" in a highly competent way. 

However, the bad news that “Yamoto’s Matsunaga Hisahide had revolted” came. 

“Wh- what!?” 

These rumors did not only spread in Mitsuhide’s base but in the whole of Tamba too. 

The Akechi troops were also anxious because of this. 

But the one who was panicking the most was Mitsuhide. 

Spraying the tea that was served to her from her mouth, she quickly stood up from her seat. 

“Th-th- th- th- th- that’s why~! I said to cut down that revolutionist while we had the chance No- No- No- No- Nobuna-samaaaaaa~~. N-no, it’s that right? She was to- to- to- too kind to us……!” 

But thinking those things right now was useless. 

Thinking things out will be just waste of time. 

Right now, she needs to withdraw out of Tamba. 

“Qui- qui- qui- qui- quickly prepare the troops, we will mar- mar- mar march out of Ta- Ta- Ta- Tamba to help Nobuna-sama!” 

However. 

“But if we march out from the captured Yamaki Castle and leave the newly pacified Tamba” 

“The powerful nobles of Tamba will raise their complaints” 

“And we will do pacification all over again” 

“And Yamaki Castle will restock and ready themselves and it would be impregnable the next time we return” 

The retainers strongly opposed the idea and saying “we must not withdraw out of Tamba!”. 

“What are you talking about? You, who do you think is more important, the nobles of Tamba or Nobuna-sama!!” 

“If it’s her, she will survive somehow” 

“Yes! The princess of Oda has survived a deadly gunshot once; she will surely be able to overcome this crisis!” 

“So to summarize this, we must not go to where Hime-sama is.” 

“And if we do it all over again, it will take some years to pacify Tamba again” 

“And this might result in a problem for our Akechi Clan!” 

“Why are you saying selfish thing like “this will be a problem for the Akechi Clan” you big fools!” Mitsuhide furiously chastised her retainers who were usually kind on a daily basis. 

“Stop spitting out useless things, and ready the troops to march out!!” 

“But!” 

“If it takes some years before we pacify Tamba, what will happen about the talk of marrying Saru-dono?” 

“It isn’t going to be legal even in papers!” 

“…… Aahh!!” 

It worked. 

For Mitsuhide who was blindly loyal to Nobuna, this was her only weakness and contradiction. 

And it was Sagara Yoshiharu. 

Mitsuhide once said “to eliminate the bad rumors surrounding Nobuna-sama, I’m letting Sempai marry this brilliant me” and had no doubt that these two were only in a master and servant relationship. And even though she already saw their tryst, she’s still gleefully saying to herself that “If Sempai and I get married~ we will live in our large love nest~”, her retainers that saw that their lord was acting weird could obviously tell her true intentions. 

And so the retainers used this against the lavishly in love Mitsuhide. 

Also, they were always reminded by the sick mother of Mitsuhide that “I want to see my daughter in a wedding dress and get married” repeatedly. 

So now, the retainers of Mitsuhide were suddenly in a situation that they forged the “Hime-sama and Saru-dono must get married” pairing. 

“Is that okay, Hime-sama!?” 

“While we are pacifying Tamba again, Saru-dono might, no, will certainly find a wife in Harima!” 

“And if its Harima were talking about, it will definitely be the Akashi” 

“And if we’re talking about Akashi, you’ll remember the Octopus princess and the “Tale of Genji” where the Akashi is famous too!” 

“That’s the place where “Hikaru Genji” cheated!” 

“The Akashi might use their octopus-like tentacles to seduce Saru-dono, Hime-sama!” 

“If it’s the Octopus princess, she’ll definitely do it!” 

“There is no mistake on that!” 

No, maybe it might be the Oda clan princess…… “ 

For the first time, Mitsuhide flinched ever since this discussion started. 

“Su-su- su- such an a- a- a- absurd thing~~” 

She was in a state where she was shaking and might collapse at any moment. 

“Sagara-sempai won’t get seduced by that Octopus princess even if she abducted him, but more importantly, if Sempai pursued his forbidden love for Nobuna-sama ……” 

Mitsuhide wouldn’t get confused or puzzled in the matters in Tamba but if suddenly thrown with a question related to the “marriage with Yoshiharu”, she didn’t know what was right or wrong. 

When it came to Yoshiharu, Mitsuhide couldn’t think calmly as usual. 

(Please, tell me what to do, Sempai) 

Then she remembered the words of Yoshiharu. 

Once, when Matsunaga Hisahide did her first revolt, Mitsuhide stayed at Kyo because she was assigned to guard the place; she was in a situation full of despair and confusion back then. 

With just a few people, Nobuna and Yoshiharu rushed to Kiyumizu temple just to help her. 

At that time, Yoshiharu saved her, and he said it with a heavy voice with a face full of sadness that Mitsuhide would never forget. 

“If you ever find yourself uncertain in the future, remember this image of the bloody love triangle that happens in this burning Kiyumizu temple! And how Nobuna appeared in a hideous appearance and fired her Tanegashima earnestly just to stop this bloody love triangle to kill you!” 

“Huh~? Wait its kinda wrong! My memories got altered~! But first of all, somehow in my head Sempai blurted another word from the future~” 

“Oh my god! Hime-sama’s one man show has started~!” 

“Your right~ Hime-sama, take care” 

“I’m just tired because of work~!” 

“Wait~! The right memories just came in~” 

What is this “love triangle”? 

“If you ever find yourself uncertain in the future, remember this image of the bloody battle that happened in this burning Kiyumizu temple! And how Nobuna appeared and fired her Tanegashima earnestly to stop this bloody battle to save you …… !” 

Yes. 

The one who saved her from being attacked by Matsunaga Hisahide were Nobuna and Yoshiharu who rushed to Kiyumizu temple with only just a few people to save her. 

And now, Nobuna is in a crisis because of the “revolt of Matsunaga Hisahide”. 

Now she wasn’t lost anymore. 

Nobuna, who sometimes smacks Mitsuhide, had once shown her true self to her. 

This was when they were at Odawara and snuck into the camp of Date Masamune when they heard that Yoshiharu died and were going take revenge for him. 

“Humans, will always be honest when they’ve lost someone, now that I think about it, we were always quarrelling right?” 

“…… I may be blessed with splendid retainers, but I had thought that Viper’s dream and my dream can only be succeeded by Juubei” 

Nobuna’s other self. 

Two people were looking at the same dream. 

Surely 

When Nobuna dies, that will also mean the end for Mitsuhide’s life. 

The distance between the two of them, as well as their soul, was that close. 

So close that they fell for the same man. 

But, Mitsuhide didn’t perceive her love and didn’t try to understand Nobuna’s romance. 

Because if she learned this, it’s going to have an irreversible result. 

Just a little bit more… 

Just a little bit more, I want this relationship to continue. 

So, Mitsuhide made a decision to remain unaware of it. 

Once she noticed this, the fear that those souls would make different decision invaded her. 

“It is very regrettable that we will discard the newly pacified Tamba that did not take too long to conquer.” 

“So, Hime-sama, have you changed your mind?” 

“Of course not~! I’m one of Nobuna-sama’s retainers, it’s a given that I must help her~!” 

“No, well umm” 

“But, what will happen with your marriage to Saru-dono ……?” 

“Such a thing can just wait; and Tamba won’t go anywhere too!” 

“Oohhh~~!!” 

“The Hime-sama who always gets panicked when we bring up the “marriage with Saru-dono”, was able regain her cool” 

“Is this really okay……?” 

“I kind of feel that something is wrong here……” 

Mitsuhide snorted ”Fuuun” while riding her horse. 

“If Saru-sempai can’t wait for me to pacify Tamba, he can just have Octopus princess of Akashi, Men! March toward Kyo!!” 

At that time, the cold wind toward the stronghold of Mitsuhide had been blown down from the summit of Yamaki castle. 

And all the banner of bell flower crest was fluttering in the wind. 

Akechi Mitsuhide had left Tamba and had marched to Kyoto. 

“Hihihi, what a pain, the Mori army surrounded us in all direction; they’re more superior in number than us, Hihihi” 

“Granny-sama! Can you use that “Art of War” of yours to get us out of this mess!?” 

“Hihihi, That’s impossible, I can think a plan or 2 if we were in a castle but it’s a different story if we are in the field” 

“My apologies, the Mori army came earlier than expected, it is my fault for forgetting to gather information beforehand” 

“No no, this is the limit of us Oumiyoji’s, and the art of war has changed now, it’s not the same as back in my time” 

Yamanaka Shikanosuke who had led the feint troop, was able to read the movements of the enemies, and thanks to the effort of Granny Aga who gave directions and pointers to her, they were in a favorable situation, and successfully attracted the Ukita army to the west side of Yumesakigawa. 

Shikanosuke had led 3000 troops, consisting of the Amago Heroes and Kuroda Clan’s retainers. 

There were approximately 5000 troops that were still left in Miki Castle to guard it and were deemed untouchable. 

On the other hand, Ukita’s armies who have gone down the mountains to catch Shinkanosuke numbered at 9000 troops. 

This 90% larger Ukita army had flooded forward to the 3000 troops of Shinkanosuke. 

Shinkanosuke was once a reckless warrior who went to the battlefield and didn’t even know when to retreat, but after she was trained by Granny Aga and learned the art of war, she had now become a Miracle warrior in the battlefield. She could now perceive the enemy’s strategies and gave good orders at crucial times. 

However, she couldn’t possibly learn it all in just 3 days; so Granny Aga became the strategist to prevent Shinkanosuke from running wild in battlefield. 

Both of them splendidly stalled the Ukita army and let Yoshiharu and Zenki sneak to Mt. Shozan. 

Along with Ashikaga Yoshiaki, the elites of Mori, the Mori twins have personally led the Mori army and came in a much earlier time than expected. 

Though not too sure, Granny Aga estimated that their total troops were overwhelmingly around 40000. 

In the left wing, there were more than 20000 troops that were being led by Kobayakawa Takakage. 

And in the right wing, there was Yoshikawa Motoharu who led the more or less 20000 troops. 

And if the Ukita Army is added, it would be a large army of 50000 troops, and was now marching in the plains of Himeji; this is the largest army ever seen in the history of Harima. 

Shinkanosuke has thought that the Mori Army needed some time to stock their ration and weapons because of their numbers, therefore she was convinced that they would be late to arrive. 

But, there was a champion in the Mori’s naval fleet that was known in the Seto inland sea. 

While the foot soldiers marched on land, the provisions were deployed from the sea. 

“Please retreat Granny-sama! While My Lord is saving Kanbei-dono, I’ll stall them here as much as possible!” 

“Well, Zenki has already left and gone to heaven, so until the end, I’ll just stick as “the loyal retainer” for a while. Hihihi” 

“Zenki-dono is already dead?” 

“That guy is a big shot you see, so knowing when he breathed his last would be simple, but even though he is already in heaven, he could still do some tricks. I can only say one thing about it, he is truly remarkable.” 

“Then that means My Lord is …… ” 

Shinkanosuke was grinding her teeth as she say “no…”. 

“Hey~~!!” 

In the field full of enemies, there was one man who was able to push forward from it. 

“Shinkanosuke~! Granny~! Kanbei is safe now~!” 

The one riding on the horse was Sagara Yoshiharu. 

And he was even carrying Kanbei on his back. 

Even though they saw this suspicious monkey who was going to Shinkanosuke’s side, the Mori army didn’t even lift a finger against Sagara Yoshiharu and let him pass. 

They didn’t even think that the renowned general “Sagara Yoshiharu” was this man. 

Shikanosuke was flabbergasted. 

“Wh- …… why did you come here my lord?” 

“What do mean “why?”, because Shikanosuke is in trouble, that’s why I’m here” 

“My Lord is really~, a big idiot~! We were just planning to stall the Mori army so that you can have some more time you know? And now we just saved Kambei-dono~! What’s the point of all of this if you too get stranded at the rear~!” 

“I did not come here to die you know. Now, leave it to me” 

“Then, do you have a plan!?” 

“…… I’m working on it” 

“No you’re not!” 

When they saw that Kanbei was safe, the Kuroda retainers were shouting “Hime-samaaaaa!!””Sagara Yoshiharu is, is~, is a real man~~!!””Wait……..!! Why did you bring Hime-sama into this death pit, you stupid MONKEYYYYYYY~~!!!” They were busy being happy, angry, and depressed at the same time. 

“…… We don’t have spare time to retort to them” 

Just as Kanbei said. 

The Mori clan was moving as they spoke. 

Furthermore. 

“Uhihihihihi, don’t forget that the Mori army is coming here, and if they arrive here, they’ll definitely capture Yamanaka Shikanosuke with all they’ve got” 

With a fierce face, Ukita Naoie was in the frontline holding his short tanegashima and did not rush toward Yoshiharu and the others. 

He was like a different person compared to moments ago who kept saying that “It’s my loss~~!!” and now had a villainous smile on his face. 

“Wait a minute~! Ukita Naoie you bastard~! Didn’t we just have an agreement a little while ago~!!” 

“Hu~h, what are you talking about, the great me won’t sulk just because I lost once, but I’m the kind of man who doesn’t dwell on yesterday’s mistakes and will look forward to tomorrow~!” 

“It’s not from yesterday, it’s just a little while ago~~!!” 

“Shut up!! The Mori army is already here and if I ever did what you said then I’m as good as dead! Well, if the Oda gave you reinforcement and the tides were in your side, I would have considered it though~” 

Kanbei said “Sunekusori!” in a loud voice, and Sunekusori came out with “pyyoonn” sound and attacked Ukita Naoie in a huge flying squirrel form. 

“Give up already, and die for me will ya? Sagara Yoshiharu …… Wha-!?” 

“Touching man is not my hobby nyu~ but I’ll do my best nyu~ touch touch touch” 

“Som- something is …… stuck in my chest~! Sto-stop! Stop it~~! Hya hya hya hya hya!!” 

Sunekusori had dropped to Naoie’s chest, and was now tickling him without stopping. 

Stop~! Don’t make me laugh~~! If the Mori saw me laughing like this~ ...... they might get the wrong idea that I'm letting you guys free~~!! Gee hya hya hya hya hya!!” 

Naoie was now unable to aim his small tanegashima and was shaking in his horseback. 

“Oohhh~~!!” 

And now he just fell. 

This was the second time he fell on this day. 

“Giyyaaa~~!!My waist …… Oh my waist~~!!! What will happen to the women of my country if my precious waist is~~!!! Giyyaaa!!!” 

He fell hard on the ground and looked like he was in extreme pain. 

But it still doesn’t change the fact that Yoshiharu was surrounded by an army of 50000 troops from the Mori Clan. 

“My Lord, we the Amago heroes will open a path and cover you from the rear, please flee with Kanbei-dono” 

“Is it a bad idea that I rendezvous with Shikanosuke? …… and here I thought I was thinking calmly” 

“Sim, it was a bad idea, but yeah. That’s just like you” 

“Even though I trained you hard, humans always do what they’re used to doing, you guys really failed as my disciples, hihihihi” 

“I’ll stall the Yoshikawa and Kobayakawa army as much as possible, please leave the rear to me. My Lord, may the good fortune follow you……! ” 

At this time and moment, in the west bank of the Yumesakigawa, the luck of the Sagara corps had seemed to be depleted. 

No, that’s not it. That was not the case for Yoshiharu and Kanbei; they believed it from the bottom of their heart. 

If they stall for some more time, they could surely protect Shikanosuke, they will definitely come. 

“We’re just in time! Men!! Cross to the other side of Yumesakigawa and prepare yourself for a decisive battle against the Mori army!! ” 

Just like that back in Owari, the fool figure Oda Nobuna came. 

With a gorgeous armor, she led a large army in the east bank of Yumesakigawa. 

And in the right side of Nobuna, there was the bellflower crest in a hill. 

“What in the world are you doing, seriously, Sagara-sempai always gives us a headache, but don’t worry, Akechi Mitsuhide is here now” 

It was the bellflower crest of Akechi Mitsuhide. 

Furthermore 

“Shi- Shibata Katsuie has come, from Kaga, and was defeated by Uesugi Ke-Kenshin, it was on purpose okay~~! It was on purpose~~” 

“…… We were seriously running away …… The Uesugi army …… Are so scary …… I thought we were gonna die back then” 

“It was on purpose~~!! Damn you Saru~~! It was your fault, I’ll make you pay for this~~!” 

The two who purposely(?) lost their battle and had arrows stuck in their tiger hat and armor, such that they looked like a hedgehog, were Maeda Inuchiyo and Shibata Katsuie. 

"Everyone simultaneously rushed to Kyoto to save Hime-sama but we did not expect to take this to our advantage, and together with Hime-sama, we marched to Harima to give some reinforcements, which we didn’t have much of a choice cause it was inevitable. With this, Oda clan is now able to have a reunion in a long time, 90 pts. " 

Niwa Nagahide said with a smile. 

“Why not make it a full points~! A ha ha ha~~” 

“Well, if we lose here in Harima, it’s all over for the Oda Clan” 

“Then look at Aneue, she is overflowing with energy, we couldn’t possibly lose~!” 

Tsuda Nobusumi. 

He had miraculously rendezvous with Nobuna and gone to Harima to help Yoshiharu. With this, all the power house of Oda clan was here. 

Now, the Mori army was shocked and the tables were turned. 

“Over there, they have 50000 troops, and here we also have 50000. No, 60000 troops, but are we already going to battle? Dust will fall to my skin; I really hate it when that happens” 

Takigawa Kazumasu troops who suddenly appeared from south of the Mori army without crossing Yumesakigara came in the flank of the Mori army. 

When the Kuki naval fleet that was being led by Takigawa Kazumazu landed to Sakai from Kii by sea, Imai Sokyu said “Hime-sama has already neutralized the revolt of Matsunaga Hisahide of Yamato and is now marching to Harima at this moment” and so continued their sail and were now going towards Harima. 

Fortunately, the wind had blown good that Kazumasu was able to catch up to the Oda army. 

In the Mori clan, they had great confidence for their naval fleet that was a known pirate in Seto inlands. 

And in comparison, the Oda clan was not good in expanding their water territory; yes, their navy fleet had little achievement so they underestimated them. 

So they did not expect that Kazumazu that was in Kii, to navigate and arrive here early with a large navy fleet. 

Kazumasu who was known as a lord that was semi-independent, that didn’t work for the Oda clan but would only move if ordered. So the Oda clan was really fortunate that she moved by her whim. 

And there was another problem for the Mori clan, in these plains where the Mori army was surrounded and stopped, even if she’s advised to not come by the Mori twins, Ashikaga Yoshiaki who said “I want to go too~~!” was also in the battlefield. 

If the young Ashikaga Yoshiaki was not here, the calm Kobayakawa Takakage might have wanted to have their final bout with the Oda army as is. 

However, they must not let the young shogun to die here. 

Takigawa Kazumasu who has used a shortcut using the sea to come in Yumesakigawa and the Oda army who had come by foot to come to Yumesakigawa, now the Mori army was trapped between the two. Kobayakawa Takakage didn’t expect this to happen. 

Takigawa Kazumasu who came by the sea, didn’t need to bother crossing Yumesakigawa. 

And she came out from the flank of the Mori army. 

But they were still fortunate because this was not a surprise attack. 

But if Takigawa Kazumasu’s troops attacked the flank of the Mori army, they will surely collapse. 

“And to think that the scattered Oda clan came to Harima all at once …… this should have taken a month to do so” 

Takakage Kobayakawa had stopped her mouth when she heard “Attack~~!!” Yoshikawa Motoharu yelled in her horseback. 

“Onee-sama, please stop. Retreat to the west with your men, let’s rebuild the situation where we can attain victory” 

“Takakage, don’t falter, our military forces are almost just the same as them.” 

“I too am reluctant about this, I had already prepared a plan if they ever have reinforcements, but I didn’t expected for the Oda army to send 50000 troops and to sum it up Takigawa Kazumasu also arrived in Yumesakigawa and now the situation looks too grim for us and our chances to win are way too slim, so we better retreat for now, it’s a shame but we could not catch the big fish of Harima” 

“Uuhhh, how mortifying” 

“Onee-sama, this is my mistake because I underestimated the unity of the Oda clan, The Oda clan is much stronger than I expected, and I concluded that they are not strong willed. However-” 

"The bonds between retainers should not be overlooked. They should have been scattered in Hokuriku, Wakasa, Ise, Tamba and Omi but in such a short amount of time, they were able to gather together to march to Harima. An amazing speed that is contrary to common sense. 

“Yes, the bonds of the retainers and that strange marching speed, especially the naval fleet. If we don’t do something about these two, then in decisive battles there will always be a gamble, we must not expose this to the young shogun” 

Yoshiaki said “why should we retreat~! Nobuna is right in front of us~! Let’s defeat her now~!” with an angered expression but Takakage didn’t even flinched and stayed expressionless as usual. 

It was admirable that she could still stay calm in this crisis they were facing. 

“This is something that I didn’t expect, at this rate, we will surely lose so let’s strategically retreat and make a plan to win”. 

“We did not lose right?” 

“Yes, we will just retreat strategically for now, the Oda army is scared of us so they will not pursue us” 

“But if they gave us chase?” 

“If that happens, Onee-sama will lead her troop to annihilate the pursuing troops while guarding us from the rear; she will cut them down for sure” 

Ou~! If the Oda clan blindly underestimate us, this Yoshikawa Motoharu will definitely cut them down~! Ohh~!” 

While shouting “Princess Cut~~!” Motoharu took out her short sword and Yoshiaki squealed “Hhhiiii!” and got scared. 

When they received the report that Ukita Naoie had hurt his waist because he fell from his horse. Kobayakawa Takakage frowned and said “he is a cunning man as ever” and taking this to account, the favor now lies with the Oda clan. 

“Order Ukita Naoie to retreat his men and go back in his base, while we will withdraw from Mt. Shozan to go west and cross Ibo River and take refuge in Kozuki castle” 

She ordered the whole of the Mori army. 

And the rout of Harima had now with only a brief standoff of armies concluded its first act. 

Of course, in the head of Kobayakawa Takakage, she had already strategized a new plan. 

“Sister, the sea is in our favor, let’s go and fight the naval fleet of Oda with our own naval fleet.” 

“Then, you’re finally mobilizing the Murakami naval fleet, Takakage?” 

“If this war takes some time, in that kind of war, systematic strategy is important, so that’s why we will take the sea because the Seto inland group will surely win, and to take back Miki castle, we must first take down the naval fleet of Oda that has landed to Harima” 

“Right, the Seto inland pirates, Murakami naval fleet are indeed invincible” 

“But there is one problem, the Oda army won’t just stand and wait, they might attack us from the back while we are doing it” 

“It seems that Matsunaga Hisahide who had led a rebellion in the Oda clan by the letter of Shogun-sama has now fallen” 

“That event, even though it’s not planned, was a greatfavor to us, Onee-sama” 

“Leave it to Ashikaga Yoshiaki~ I will send a lot of letters to those who once served the Ashikaga~. Even though Matsunaga Hisahide is now dead, we still have many supporters~” 

The young Ashikaga Yoshiaki was motivated and was making many “letter from the Shogun(?)” while thinking it’s for the sake of reviving the Ashikaga clan. 

Now that the young Yoshiaki had seen the Oda clan, she was burning with vigor to fight. 

Since the Mori army retreated to Kozuki castle, Mt. Shozan and Himeji castle were now under control of the Oda clan. 

The largest contributor, Granny Aga had not taken any reward at all, “The time of the Omyouji’s has come to an end, so I don’t need any of that, just say to Hanbei and Kanbei that I’m off now. Hihihihi” she said this and disappeared without a trace. 

They say that she already followed Zenki in the other world. 

Kuroda Kanbei was reunited to her father, Souen and the Kuroda retainers at Yumesakigawa. 

“Ho ho~it seem that Takenaka Hanbei had saved our Shojoumaru” when Souen said this to Kanbei, the real truth about the command from Nobuna to cut down Shojomaru to Yoshiharu was also being revealed. 

The truth that Konoe Sakihisa had a Fuma ninja planted to infiltrate her base and when she was sick, saw an opportunity and had given a false order. 

Kanbei who from the very start didn’t suspect Nobuna, in Yumesakigawa, Nobuna hugged Kanbei and said “When you were captured, I wasn’t able to move …… I’m sorry” while crying and did not let her go for some time. 

Kanbei replied with a troubled face “if I enter an onsen, then I’ll be just fine, but though this is not bad once in a while” with teary eyes. 

However, there was no time to chitchat because someone was in danger here in Harima. 

It’s not about Katsuie who kept saying ”I did not lose to Kenshin at all~~!!” or Mitsuhide who said that “I may be back at square one in pacifying Tamba, but don’t worry Sempai! We will definitely get married~!” and not also Nagahide who was in deep thought ”As I thought, Matsunaga-dono did it for Hime-sama sake that’s why …… she was an ideal retainer. Perfect pts” or Goemon who is whining ”Unyaa~~!, the Kawanami group is chasing me~~!! They wanted to pat me cause I’m alive!!! Unnyyyaaaa! Don’t come near me!!!” or not even Nobusumi who said to Yoshiharu ”Hahahaha~~ I didn’t see you for a while but you look much manlier now Saru-kun~~. Now you are one step closer to me~” innocently and also Shinkanosuke who ”I wanted to honorably die in battle with the Mori” was talking to herself and Inuchiyo who said”…… I’m hungry” the shout of her soul. All of this was said in rapid succession while the retainers of the Oda clan were going back in full speed from Himeji to Miki castle. 

That person is in Miki castle. 

Every second counts. 

In one corner of Miki castle, Takenaka Hanbei was sleeping, and when Nobuna and the others came back, she was already in death's doorstep. 

But, ”Danjo-chan was such an amazing pharmacist, studying the art of longevity and was able to make one in just 3 years but just died like that, how regrettable” Doctor Manase Belchior suddenly appeared in Miki castle and was able to come in a nick of time to save Takenaka Hanbei. 

“So everyone is here. Now, give the Ranjatai to me. Hurry~ hurry~” 

If she took the Rajantai stolen by Goemon with Hisahide's help from Todai temple's Shosoin, Hanbei will recover and extend her life temporally. 

Nobuna said to Yoshiharu, "This is the inheritance of Danjo, here." and threw the Rajantai over. 

Manase Belchior cut a small piece of it, grind it into power and dissolves it in the water before pouring it into a black teacup prepared by Rikyuu. 

“……” 

Let her drink it right now, we can still make it and she'll wake up. Rikyuu said. 

With Nobuna leading, the Oda clan members stood by the side as they observe Hanbei's sleeping face. 

Kanbei said something about not letting them look at her crying face and started sobbing while covering her face with her namban hat. 

"....Yeah, we finally made it!" 

Nobuna relaxed and said. 

"But Nobuna, how do we let her drink the Rajantai?" 

"Ah, you got a point, Saru. We have to wake her up for her to drink it...." 

"But Hanbei had exhausted all her strength and can't wake up." 

There's no more time, right now every second counts. Manase Belchior urged them. "It's decided then.", Yoshiharu said. 

"I will let her drink it with my mouth!" 

"Dream on! You ero-saru!!!" 

"Senpai, don't fool around!" 

"Don't stop me! There's no longer any time left!" 

"Sagara Yoshiharu, you can't do since you're a pervert. Let I Simon feed her with my mouth." 

"Eh?" 

"Before I swallow it all, I will feed it to her.... Uhh..." 

"Ahhh....! What are you doing, Kanbei?! But a kissing scene between Hanbei and Kanbei!? This isn't so bad itself, a sudden event!!" 

"In such a touching scene, Sagara-dono is still the same getting all horny like a monkey, 5 points." 

"I'm not being horny, Nagahide, I'm just being touched!" 

Kanbei had finish feeding the medicine. 

Yoshiharu shouted, "HANBEI!!!" and rushed forwards. With a swoop, he hugged the small waist of Hanbei. 

Those eyes that can't be opened originally gradually started to open. 

".....Ah....Yo...Yoshiharu....san....!?" 

"HANBEIIIII!!!" 

The clear eyes of Hanbei is right in front of him. 

Yoshiharu kept shouting with all his might. 

His waves of tears can no longer distinguish between snot, tears or spit. 

Hanbei hugged Yoshiharu back, but she did not shed any tears. 

With a gentle smile, she looked at Yoshiharu. 

"What's this? Won't this show that Hanbei is much more mature than me? Aren't the sobbing me the same as a child? I see, damn, this is the worst!" 

"....Yoshiharu-san. You called me Hanbei directly just now." 

"Ah, ahhh! I'm sorry, Hanbei-chan." 

"No, I'm overjoyed, please call me Hanbei directly from now on." 

Hanbei hugged Yoshiharu tightly. 

Hanbei's body was no longer cold. 

Such warmth. 

[12] 

No, it's hot. 

The heart is beating in high speed. 

"To be hugged tightly like this by Yoshiharu-san, it's almost like a dream." 

Yoshiharu had saved this smile. 

Zenki, Shikanosuke, Kanbei, Nobuna, Goemon, Matsunaga Hisahide, Granny Aga, Ukita Naoie, Konishi Yakurou and Mitsuhide... 

If anyone of them was missing, Hanbei could not have been saved. 

Though her illness wasn't cured. 

But as long as she's alive, we can find a way to cure it. 

As long as she's alive... 

"But.... I lied. I'm back now." 

Slightly troubled, Hanbei smiled shyly. Yoshiharu caressed her head light and said. 

"I'm sorry, Hanbei. Zenki disappeared due to protecting me. Matsunaga Hisahide became a traitor to get the Rajantai and had killed herself...." 

The truth that was hardest to say, they must be told first. 

Hanbei finally cried. 

"....Uhh, if I had lived on, I'm really sorry." 

"No, they will be happy if Hanbei survive." 

"Hanbei, that thing about Shoyjomaru, I'm really sorry." 

Though Nobuna had lowered her head to Hanbei but in her heart, she knew how Hanbei will respond. 

The strategist Takenaka Hanbei is one of the smartest person in the world. 

The truth that Nobuna can never give such an order, she would have seen through it from the start. 

Just from her intellect and her heart. 

"Shojyomaru-chan was actually hidden by me in this army." 

"Eh? Here?" 

"If one was to hide a tree, he would hide it in a forest. *cough* Shojyomaru-chan, you can come out now." 

"Yes." 

She came out. 

From under the namban bed that Hanbei was sleeping, Kanbei's younger sister, Shojyomaru appeared. 

With a "Yosh~", she slipped out. 

"Shojyomaru~~!" 

Kanbei knocked away the obstructing Yoshiharu and hugged Shojyomaru tightly. 

Since Yoshiharu had let go of Hanbei instantly, he was unable to dodge Kanbei's charge. 

"Aneue!" 

" Shojyomaru Shojyomaru Shojyomaru Shojyomaru Shojyomaru!" 

"Aneue Aneue Aneue Aneue Aneue Aneue Aneue Aneue!" 

Hanbei smiled awkwardly on the bed as she looked at the hugging sisters silently. 

"....." 

The head of Sagara Yoshiharu was knocked onto the namban table. Though Rikyuu was protesting silently, the current Kanbei did not care about all those right now. 

While hugging Shojyomaru with one arm, Kanbei struck Hanbei's palm in celebration. 

"Sagara Yoshiharu's head is bleeding, but it's not a bad idea for him to release some of his pent-up heat, 95 points." 

"Correct Nagahide! Damn Saru, you deserve it!" 

"Good, he's pitiful enough." 

"....I'm hungry." 

"I Shikanosuke want to meet my family too. But the battle with the Mori clan had just started, such suffering..." 

Shikanosuke hugged Yoshiharu and said, "My lord, wake up!" "I will bandage you up." and then she tore up her shirt to bandage Yoshiharu's head. 

"Well, it's just desserts for that Saru who use an aphrodisiac and tried to attack both Juubei and me. That's all well and good... Anyway, that fellow hugging Saru, who the hell are you? Don't tell me you are the rumored....." 

"Exactly, who is that woman? When did Senpai's camp have such a beauty? Don't tell me it's senpai's concubine?" 

"Sorry for the late introduction. I'm the incarnation of suffering, Yamanaka Shikanosuke. I had devoted my body and heart to my lord. For my lord, I will not back down from the hardest ordeals! No matter what torture I receive, I will never betray my lord. Hahaha!" 

"Dearuka, you've been fired." 

"Why!? Ahh, what a dukkha." 

Nobuna said with ice-cold eyes and a calm demeanor. 

Still hugging Shojyomaru, Kanbei tugged on Nobuna's sleeve and said, "Simon had something to confess too." 

"Eh? What is it, Harima?" 

"I hope you will reconcile with Sagara Yoshiharu." 

"I....I won't. It's another matter if Saru comes and apologize himself. He is a pervert who employ that woman with such a lewd figure, alright?" 

Looks like I had been despised by Nobuna-sama without I knowing anything, what a dukkha. "My life is without any hint of sweetness." Shikanosuke said while nodding, while Yoshiharu hugged his head and said at the side, "The misunderstandings are getting out of control." 

Though Nobuna had personally leaded reinforcements over to Yumesakigawa, she still seemed to be angry over what happened at the tea room. 

By saving Hanbei together, I had thought that she could finally calm down. Who could have expected that she would start to get jealous over Shikanosuke? 

I beg you Kanbei. Now that Hanbei had worken up, this is the best chance for Nobuna to reconcile with me. Yoshiharu prayed. 

"Sagara Yoshiharu isn't a pervert. No, though he's a pervert, but he didn't cause the incident in the tea room." 

"Then who is it?" 

"The culprit who touched both of you is Sunekosuri who was possessing Yoshiharu. It's it who crawled into Yoshiharu's bosom and touched both of you." 

"Sunekosuri?" 

"It's an artificial spirit that I, Simon had created with Rikyuu-shisho." 

Kanbei opened the bamboo container on her waist. From it, a fur ball organism peeked it's head out and looked at Nobuna. 

".....I'm Sunekosuri, see see, I'm so cute." 

Nobuna "Waaaa!" and..... 

"So this fellow is the real pervert, huh!?" 

"To actually dare do such a thing, I'm destroying you, I must destroy you!" 

With Nobuna and Mitsuhide combining forces, Sunekosuri was driven out from the bamboo container and stomped on. 

"You enemy of women, it's useless even if you act cute. Stomp you to death!" 

"Ahhh, Sunekosuri! Ho....How can you be so cruel....!?" 

Kanbei tried to stop the both of them, but their fury was still rising. 

"Uwahh! Sunekosuri will be stomped flat!" 

"Sunekosuri is a female, not a pervert. I just want to get close to people. Don't step on it.... No...!" 

Being stomped flat, Sunekosuri begged. But the response of Nobuna and Mitsuhide are... 

"Fe...Female? You're a female and yet you dare crawled into Saru's bosom? You bitch!" 

"You had been getting close with Senpai and sniffing his scent, right!? So you think you can do whatever you want because you're an animal, huh? Go and die!" 

"STOP, STOPPP!" 

It just make things harder for itself.... Hanbei smiled helplessly. 

What a dukkha, I'm so envious... Shikanosuke said while trembling. 

"Nobuna, Juubei-chan, it's time to stop. If you want to vent your anger, vent it on my body then. Kick this kind me who was framed but did not argue at all." 

"Then I shall grant you your wish! You just can't change that bad habit of being frivolous even when you're forced to a corner. I just can't believe you, you cheating bastard." 

"Taking a big breasted beauty as your concubine behind your fiancée's back, I don't understand you at all, die!" 

"Uwahhh? Shikanosuke isn't like that, it's a misunderstanding!" 

Hoho, even Akechi Mitsuhide had lost her mind because of Yoshiharu, Kanbei smiled. Hanbei smiled too and replied, "Yeah, since Yoshiharu-san is so thick-skinned." 

Though everything had come to an end, the current Oda clan had no time to organize a celebration feast. 

Now, Nobuna had to start military meetings to prepare for the battles throughout the country, as well as the final battle with the Mori clan. 

Everyone had left their posts to come here, we can't waste meaningless time here or else problems will arise. I must reposition each of their troops. 

On the other hand. 

"To recuperate Hanbei-chan's illness and Kanbei's legs, it's better for them to go to Arima for their hot springs." 

Following Manase Belchior's suggestion, Hanbei and Kanbei were ordered to head towards Arima Onsen in the inner regions of Settsu's Mount Rokkou. 

"Hanbei are you alright? Do you want me to send you to Arima?" 

"Yes, thank you." 

"Wait, Sagara Yoshiharu, why didn't you ask whether Simon is ok?" 

"You're alright, right? Won't you be ok by soaking in the hot springs for a few days?" 

"This is too biased! Looks like there's a need to finish things off one day." 

Yoshiharu was uneasy and started immediately to prepare for a long journey. 

"Goemon! Come together with us to Arima. When I'm gone, protect them properly. 

"....Geez, can't you give me a day to rest. Using.... ninja.... as he wants....." 

From outside the tent comes Goemon's cold response. 

"Mori won't be waiting obediently. We have to act ASAP. 

"Ninnin, got it." 

"My lord, Shikanosuke is going too. I will rub my lord's back in the onsen." 

How thoughtful..... Wait a minute! I will be killed by Nobuna and Juubei! Yoshiharu noticed. 

"I'm sorry Shikanosuke. Stay here to lead the Sagara corps. You are our troops second in command." 

"....I'm getting the feeling of dukkha. But I'm happy that my lord trusts me." 

After sending both of them to Arima, he will have to rush back to battle the Mori clan. 

Goemon is safe, Hanbei and Kanbei had both returned to my side. Though the conditions were all fulfilled, the Incident at Honnouji did not happen, Nobuna and Juubei are as close as sisters. Bastard Zenki, you listen! I'm full of energy right now, to the point that I can't even sit down at all! Yoshiharu shouted. 

With the help of our companions, we had finally surpassed the ordeals of Harima. 

Shingen and Kenshin are both around. The battle with the enemy, the Mori clan is still ongoing, but the current Oda clan would never lose. 

Mitsuhide and Katsuie were saying with a face of contempt, "Who you're calling? Are you in heat?" "Everytime I look at you, your face is becoming more like a monkey." 

"Nobuna, just how long will the effect of Rajantai last?" 

"It's ok to use all of the Rajantai on Hanbei. Bring it to Arima." 

"Oi Nobuna, isn't that a little bad?" 

"What's so bad about it, that Rajantai will forever be Danjo's." 

For an instant, a hint of sadness flashed past Nobuna's eyes. 

How I wish to hug her tightly to cheer her up right now. 

But, Nobuna had become much stronger compared to the time we last met. 

Very soon, she raised her head and shouted energetically, "It's time for the military meeting!" 

To actually surpass the ordeal of the revolt of Matsunaga Hisahide alone and without me by her side, good job. Yoshiharu thought. 

"Then I will move out with Hanbei and Kanbei then!" 

Aren't you being too hasty, Senpai? Mitsuhide tried to stop him but Yoshiharu said, "Good things aren't worth waiting." 

Yoshiharu entered his own tent and started preparations. 

Now that Hanbei's body had become much better with the effect of the Rajantai, I have to send her to Arima right now. 

At this moment... 

Nobuna sneaked in by herself. 

"Eh? Aren't you in the military meeting?" 

"I said that I have a few things to think by myself and sneaked out." 

She was with a face of displeasure as she pouted. 

"I wanna reconcile with you... I will forgive you about that incident in the tea room." 

"Geez, you just don't trust me at all. When I heard that you had ordered the execution of Shojyomaru, I trusted that you won't give such an order." 

Yoshiharu feels, though it had been a long time since they were together alone, but being too obedient here would actually make Nobuna say that I'm a pervert, so I should just adopt a tough stance here. 

In actual fact, he couldn't wait to rush up and hug Nobuna in his arms, consoling her "It can't be helped about Hisahide, you've done a good job." But Yoshiharu couldn't be honest. 

Because if he had rushed over to hug her, he might just naturally push Nobuna down. 

"Uhh, Uhhhhhh...." 

Damn... 

Nobuna is crying...!? 

"I'm...I'm sorry, I said too much. I don't mean it that way." 

"I'm wrong, I'm wrong, ok!? Because I had sent Yoshiharu to fight with the Mori clan on impulse. And letting Hanbei suffer quite alot in Harima too... It's all because I'm so impulsive! I'm sorry!" 

"Eh? You are actually.... apologizing?" 

Yoshiharu didn't move from his spot, but Nobuna had thrown herself into his bosom. 

"Oi, what if someone sees? This will definitely destroy their dreams." 

"....I don't care about those!" 

"Nobuna, you're too loud. Calm down, this isn't a tea room." 

"You are to blame!" 

"Oi!" 

Nobuna refuse to leave. 

What's with you going to the hot springs after we had finally met!? Nobuna mumbled non-stop in Yoshiharu's chest. 

"Why, why did you let Sunekosuri possess you? Was there any reason?" 

"Th....That's because.... it's Kanbei's prank." 

"You liar. Yoshiharu, do you have something hidden from me?" 

How I wish to tell Nobuna about the Incident at Honnouji. 

Wanting to tell her about the future and then find a definite safe place to hide her away. 

But Yoshiharu suppressed this urge. 

Nobuna is far too smart. If he had told her about the Incident at Honnouji, she will definitely starting thinking who is the culprit, and get troubled over this. Finally, she will become suspicious of everyone and developed a wall between her and the retainers, causing her future to go in a bad direction. 

But, if it's the current Nobuna.... She might just surpass my "prediction". 

What should I do? 

No, wait. If I want to make a decision, I should discuss it with Kanbei, Hanbei and Goemon first. 

It hasn't happen yet. 

It may not happen in the future too. 

Even if I can't do it alone, I have companions that I can share my secrets with. 

Just like changing Hanbei's fate, Nobuna's fate can be changed too, theoretically speaking. 

(I'm an idiot anyway. So I should discuss it with Kanbei, hanbei and Goemon first, and then find a chance to talk to Nobuna. Nobuna had to get over Matsunaga Hisahide's death, so even if I tell her the future, she won't say a thing like executing me.) 

Right now, I should just tell her half of the truth and apologize to her. 

Yoshiharu caressed Nobuna's cheek and said softly by her ear. 

"I want to maintain some distance with you for a period of time, since the rumors are spreading." 

"Huh? Because of such a reason? .... Are you an idiot...?" 

"Yeah, I'm an idiot. This won't happen again, forgive me, Nobuna." 

"Still acting? Can our relationship be hidden just by that monkey brain of yours? There should be other reasons, right? Like cheating with that Yamanaka Shikanosuke or something!" 

"No...Not at all. Will I ever do anything harmful to you? Please forgive me!" 

"Hmph. How can I believe you who always don't reject Juubei firmly when she's forcing marriage on you." 

"I had done so all the while. It's just that Juubei-chan has a little problem with facing the reality." 

"Really? You kissed Juubei a few times already. Even more than you kissed me, right? Unforgivable!" 

"Those are the times when I lost consciousness and was suddenly attacked by her. Though I'm someone who like girls like Tokichirou-jii-san, but there's only one that I want to kiss... Uhh.." 

"....Hmm..." 

"....No....Nobuna...." 

"....." 

An unexpected strike, Yoshiharu was hit in the face. 

Who could have thought that.... 

Nobuna would actually initiate a kiss. 

I don't want to seperate from her. 

Just like a baby bird wanting food from it's mother... 

This emotion, this feeling can not be told in words. 

His brain was total blank. 

This is a battlefield tent, everyone is nearby. If I don't maintain clear-mind right now, Nobuna's Tenka Fubu will be all for naught.... Though Yoshiharu tried his best to maintain his mind, but he was still immersing herself into the delicate body of Nobuna who was kissing him, making him shout in his heart, "Don't endure it anymore, just push her down!". 

I love Nobuna. Though Nobuna did not say it out, but her body was telling him about her feelings. Nobuna... I.....! 

"....No....buna..." 

"....Ha...." 

Nobuna shifted her lips, gasping for air. 

Blushing and panting, a big drop of tear suddenly dropped from Nobuna's eyes. 

Happiness, sadness, anger and bliss. 

Different types of emotions were exploding in Nobuna's small body. 

What a pair of beautiful eyes, Yoshiharu gasped. 

"Hey Yoshiharu. Why can't we be joined together, why?" 

This is the rule of this world that has nothing to do with us. 

Yoshiharu thought truthfully. 

"We can." 

"Really?" 

"Yeah, I'm serious." 

"Really, really?" 

Yoshiharu was so agitated that his body trembled as he said. 

"Yeah, I... love Nobuna. I will never give you... to anyone." 

"....Really? Though even if it's a lie, I'm still happy." 

"It's no lie. I love you, love you the most." 

It's not enough. Just by words, it isn't enough. Yoshiharu felt sad suddenly. 

"Just saying isn't enough to convince me, show me proof." 

Nobuna was having the same thinking. 

Yoshiharu kissed the Nobuna who was waiting for his reply while closing her eyes. 

We have finally taken a step forward. Yoshiharu thought. 

The both of them had started on the path with no return. 

Everything is meaningless now. 

Just once... 

Even if this is the last time... 

Just like this... 

Right here... 

Let's do it. When their lips were once again entwined together, they decided. 

"They aren't here... Don't tell me Nobuna-sama had went to flirt with Senpai?" 

"Where did she run off to, Hime-sama?" 

Yoshiharu and Nobuna was forcefully pulled back to reality. 

Abandoning their companions, rejecting the reality is something they can't do. 

To not let the dream of Tenka Fubu go to waste, they have to prepare the opportunity, time and location that they can do it. 

The next time, we must prepare a secret place that Juubei-chan can never disturb, a secret yet perfect place for the both of us to meet. 

Yoshiharu caressed Nobuna's cheeks and said with his eyes. 

"Hmmm.... As expected, we can't do it in the tent, Yoshiharu." 

"Yeah, Juubei-chan and Katsuie are near already, the two most troublesome persons. 

"Yeah, if I go back late, the ones that mind the most are those two. It's ok if it's Riku but Juubei won't be easy to handle, what a headache." 

With a little hint of reluctance, Nobuna kissed Yoshiharu's lips lightly and separated herself from him. 

".....Let's end it here today, I've decided to return to Azuchi." 

"Oh, Azuchi castle, right?" 

"Before you return to Harima from Arima, come over then. If it's there, we don't have to worry about others disturbing us." 

"Has the construction of the Tenshu been completed?" 

"It's still early, but we can stay in the Honmaru tower. 

"I see." 

"That's it then, come back earlier to see me, ok?" 

"Yeah, I will be early." 

"It's a promise." 

"....Love you, Nobuna." 

"Ok, if I'm empty headed and disturbed again, those two will be able to see through it, hehe." 

Nobuna laughed as she sneaked out from Yoshiharu's tent. 

In the tent alone, an unexplainable unease starts to creep out from his heart. 

If one was to force an explanation... 

(To actually initiate a kiss, I can't imagine she is that tsundere yet timid Nobuna. Nobuna had really get over the death of Matsunaga Hisahide and became an outstanding ruler of men. The retainers are all united too. Maybe, I won't be needed in the Oda clan soon... No, could I have been the root of trouble?) 

It will... become like this. 

Will it? The optimistic Yoshiharu should not have such a mindset. 

But what's lucky is... 

When Yoshiharu walked out the tent, he had totally forgotten about this. 

"What's the rush for, Saru? You can finally be together with Aneue, is it really okay if you don't spend a night with her?" 

Because he was suddenly lectured by Nobusumi who did not have to attend the military meeting and was strolling outside. 

"Shhh. Don't let Juubei-chan and Katsuie heard you, I will be killed. Anyway, didn't Oichi come too?" 

Yoshiharu hurriedly change the topic. 

And with that, he heard an alarming truth. 

"Actually, Oichi's nausea from her pregnancy has been becoming much worse. At first, I thought she was sick but it turns out to be pregnancy's nausea. So she won't be able to be on the battlefield for now. Hahaha." 

"Wh.....Whatttttttt? You actually let Oichi be NTR-ed...!?" 

"Damn Saru, what nonsense are you talking about? That's definitely my child without a doubt." 

'UWAHH! 

"Wait, with this haven't you won me by quite an amount, Nobusumi.....!?" 

"Eh?" 

"S....Su.... Such an enviable thing like making a child, I have not even experienced it before....!?" 

"Sa....Saru, aren't you a couple with Aneue too?" 

"The difference between us is miles! YOU BASTARD, TO ACTUALLY BETRAY YOUR FRIEND AND CLIMB UP THE STAIRS TO ADULTHOOD.....!?" 

I cried! 

The disappearance of Zenki, reunion with Kanbei and the tie when Hanbei woke up, I had not shed a tear. It's the first time that I experienced such an agonizing pain! Yoshiharu was totally dejected. 

I can't take it lying down. 

Though I myself have no idea why, but I just can't accept it. HOW LONELY, SO LONELY....!!!! 

I...I...I had backed down at the last moment for just how many times....!!! 

The cool gentleman that release his ultimate skill "I love you." to Nobuna had long since to exist. 

"But, Oichi and I are husband and wife!" 

"YOU BASTARD! TO ACTUALLY BETRAY MEEEEEE!?" 

"Don't push me down, Saru, Uwahhh?" 

"YOU ARE THE ENEMY OF ALL 21ST CENTURY OICHI FANS! MY EXPERIENCE LEVEL IS ONLY UP TO THAT OF KISSING, JUST WHAT COLOR IS YOUR BLOOD!?" 

"Uwahh, I don't understand the things you are talking about." 

"Wh....When can I do it with the girl I like!? Let the end of the world come! I'm going to curse all reajuu! Bontenmaru, let me become the Antichrist!" 

"Umm.... Saru, you're quite pitiful, huh...?" 

Yoshiharu can no longer control his own words. 

(AHHH! I'M SUPER ENVIOUS OF NOBUSUMI! I CAN'T WAIT TO GET TO AZUCHI CASTLE!) 

Though he wish to shout it out like this, but he can only "WRYYYYYY!" 

"Cough, what are you doing? Stop it now, Yoshiharu-san, I can't bear to witness such a pitiful thing." 

"Boys are really like monkeys." 

On a namban style carriage, Hanbei and Kanbei peeked their head out and said. 

"Uwahh! Don't tell me both of you saw it? Do...Don't look at me!" 

"We aren't in that relationship, haha!" 

"Shut up! What disgusting things are you talking about, Nobusumi!?" 

Yoshiharu wasn't suitable to be troubled. 

Being cheerful and keep running with all his strength, this is what Yoshiharu should be like in the Sengoku era. 

At the same time, this cheerfulness and optimism had given Nobuna and the rest courage and hope. 

So... 

To protect Yoshiharu's smile, the world renowned twin "beis" Hanbei and Kanbei are here. 

Redrawing their heads, Hanbei and Kanbei talked in a volume that Yoshiharu cannot hear. 

"I'm a little uneasy, Kanbei. If we achieved Tenka Fubu, will Yoshiharu-san say, "My mission is completed, it's time for me to return to the future." Cough." 

"I'm the only one who knows the method to return to the future. One of the required "tools" had already sank deep in the Dan no ura so there's no cause for concern." 

"But, when the completion of Tenka Fubu is near, if the forbidden relationship between Yoshiharu and Nobuna-sama was exposed to the world, Yoshiharu-san might return to the future to protect Nobuna. Just like Matsunaga Hisahide did for Nobuna-sama, and Zenki choosing to return to the heavens for us." 

"Hmph, as long as the world's top and second strategist cooperate, there's nothing impossible." 

"Hehe, how Kanbei-like." 

"Ah, is that so?" 

Kanbei suddenly held Hanbei's hand. 

".....Hanbei, the gratitude of saving Shojyomaru, I will use my entire life to pay back." 

"This life of mine was saved by numerous miracles. In the end, Kanbei had tried to change my fate by going to Mount Shozan. So we did not owe each other." 

"Hmph, I Simon didn't go there to save you. It's only to achieve a contribution bigger than yours so that I can have the title of best strategist." 

"Cough, I've already seen through Kanbei's heart." 

"Hmph.... Ah, Kanbei." 

"Hmmm?" 

“I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship?” "????????????????????” 

"So...Sorry, Kanbei, please speak in English...." 

[13] 

"Wasn't Simon's heart seen through by you. Then you should understand if I speak in Japanese." 

"Thi.... Cough cough... Are you bullying me?" 

"Here starts the true bullying!" 

"Ah? There's something near my butt.... It...Itchy...." 

"We still need some time to find the way to cure your illness. So you will be staying for quite a long time in the Arima Onsen, right? To not let you be lonely, I will let Sunekosuri accompany you, hehehe." 

"Please take care of me, I'm looking forward to hot springs!" 

"It really itches.... Pl...Please take care of me too." 

"Oi oi Kanbei, don't bully Hanbei anymore. It's about time we set off." 

Comes Yoshiharu's voice from the side. 

Kanbei is still the same, Yoshiharu smiled on the horse. 

With the golden carriage, Yoshiharu starts to head out slowly. 

It's extremely rare in this sengoku era Japan, more like, this namban style golden carriage did not really fit in and was one of the belongings of Matsunaga Hisahide. 

Yoshiharu feels like Cinderella sitting on the pumpkin carriage. 

The flash of uneasiness had disappeared long ago. 

(Good, that's how you should be.) 

From the wind, one can almost hear Zenki's voice.