Sengoku Jidai, Japanese interactive History

[AggonyDuck]

I do not have a way with words like you do Shingen, but then again I do not have any need to twist my words either. As to Mino, Omi and Ise; yes, I do have ambitions over their lands as they propably have over mine as well. As to your statement that I cannot be treacherous, it isn't that far from the truth, because if they do not trust me, then I cannot betray their trust either. Yes, I am an ambitious man and I have no wish to portray me as anything else.

[SwordsMaster]

Hojo Ujiyatsu and His council consider that Oda has provided enough evidence to ask of the Emperor to call for his sepukku. Hojo will be sending a letter to the Emperor explaining the evidence that can be signed by any of the other clans also.

If the delegation sent to the Emperor is attacked. Hojo promises that he will burn the province to the ground, including cities, fortresses and farmlands, and kill anyone who wields a weapon against him while he does so.

The delegation will consist of 300 chosen men, and carry an Imperial standard, and will not engage in any Hojo military operations until its return.

[AggonyDuck]

Hojo Ujiyatsu and His council consider that Oda has provided enough evidence to ask of the Emperor to call for his sepukku. Hojo will be sending a letter to the Emperor explaining the evidence that can be signed by any of the other clans also.

If the delegation sent to the Emperor is attacked. Hojo promises that he will burn the province to the ground, including cities, fortresses and farmlands, and kill anyone who wields a weapon against him while he does so.

The delegation will consist of 300 chosen men, and carry an Imperial standard, and will not engage in any Hojo military operations until its return.

Would you care to specify what would make the Emperor call for me to commit seppuku?

[SwordsMaster]

Would you care to specify what would make the Emperor call for me to commit seppuku?

The obvious attempt to usurp power, overruling or ignoring the wishes of the Shogun and Emperor. Declaring war without provocation. Attempting to conspire with other clans to conquer and divide the lands of those Lords who are loyal to their Emperor and Japan, and who look for nothing but the re-establishment of peace and stability.

[AggonyDuck]

The obvious attempt to usurp power, overruling or ignoring the wishes of the Shogun and Emperor. Declaring war without provocation. Attempting to conspire with other clans to conquer and divide the lands of those Lords who are loyal to their Emperor and Japan, and who look for nothing but the re-establishment of peace and stability.

My actions are similar to what most of the daimyo have been doing since the Onin War. None of us is truly innocent here, so do not even attempt to portray it.

If you are so keen to make me follow the wishes of the Shogun and the Emperor, then I will offer to become a vassal of the Ashikaga Shogun in return for an Owari free of Imagawa, Takeda and Hojo samurai.

Oda Nobunaga

[Seign Thelas]

The Mori Daimyo declares that the Oda are being unjustly harassed by the Takeda/Imagawa/Hojo Alliance. The Triple Alliance is just being expansionistic and looking for reasons to legitimize its invasion of Mikawa and Owari. We, therefore, will throw our support behind Oda and Tokugawa.

[Franconicus]

To the Mori Clan:

:bow:
We greet the leader of the Mori clan. We would like to tell you that we appreciate and honor the way you declare hostilities openly. It is a new experience for us to have an enemy that acts like a daimyo and not like a snake. Therefore I promise to you, that we will treat your corpse with respect and will bury it according the rules of our tradition. Your family will neither be killed nor enslaved, but live amoung the other nobles of the Imagawa clan.:bow:

However, we would like to remind you, that your commrades do not have the same sense. So please be careful, or you might loose all, your life, your lands and your honor. :karate:

Imagawa

[Rodion Romanovich]

To Mori:

Imagawa speaks wisely, which is why we support them in fighting off any aggressors wishing to subjugate their wisdom and replace it by violence and impudence.

[Seign Thelas]

To the Takeda/Imagawa/Hojo Alliance: :bow: I look forward to the battle.

To the Asakura, Asai, Saito, Kitabatake, Miyoshi, Suzuki, Tsutsui, Takeda, Iga, Anegakoji, Shiina, Jinbo, Uesugi, Hatakeyama, Ashina, Satake, Satomi, and Date clans: The same situation that is happening to Oda and Tokugawa could very well happen to you next. The alliance of three of the Daimyo is something to be feared, and should be destroyed by an even more powerful alliance, even if that said alliance is short-lived. I beg you, throw aside hostilities with each other for the coming year, and harass the lands of the Takeda, Hojo, and Imagawa. As for those closer to the Oda, send troops to reinforce them, it is a sure thing that all your power combined can outweigh that of the Alliance.

[Franconicus]

Mori, first you declare war and now you cry for help? I am a bit - disappointed.

Why don't we sort it out like daimyos? By sword or with a cup of Saki? ~:cheers:

[SwordsMaster]

It is a peculiar turn of events. From the letters my allies have put at my disposal, I gathere that Mori was attempting to join our alliance just a little time ago, and promising his help against Oda. It is little time it took him to cry havoc and put himself on the side of Oda.

How can we trust that a daimyo like this will not betray his allies when an opportunity presents itself? Will he switch sides again as soon as there is a bigger prize?

I would like to ask my allies to provide the letters in which Mori was offering to join the alliance and to raise troops agains Oda to avoid accusations that I have fabricated them myself.

[AggonyDuck]

Are we still waiting on someone's decisions?

[Kagemusha]

Duckie, stay on your pants. There will be a chapter coming along.:smash:

[Ravie]

:bow: Please be soon :bow:

[Seign Thelas]

It is true that I was attempting to ally myself with the Takeda, but I see now that the Oda and Tokugawa are at a severe disadvantage and have no chance for victory alone. I intend to support the Oda and their claim to Owari, as well as the Tokugawa and their claim to Mikawa. The alliance is too strong for any single Daimyo in the entire land to resist, and so this is a problem. A problem that must be stopped at the root.

The Mori will continue to staunchly oppose Takeda influence, as well as support the Oda and Tokugawa clans, and when possible, get involved militarily.

I neglect to mention Imagawa and Hojo, as they are simply pawns of the Takeda.

[CountArach]

Asakura shall keep a situation of armed neutrality in this great conflict.

[Seign Thelas]

The Mori respect the Asakura's wishes and extend an offer of friendship for a later time when Asakura will be prepared to choose a side.

[Franconicus]

It is true that I was attempting to ally myself with the Takeda, but I see now that the Oda and Tokugawa are at a severe disadvantage and have no chance for victory alone. I intend to support the Oda and their claim to Owari, as well as the Tokugawa and their claim to Mikawa. The alliance is too strong for any single Daimyo in the entire land to resist, and so this is a problem. A problem that must be stopped at the root.

The Mori will continue to staunchly oppose Takeda influence, as well as support the Oda and Tokugawa clans, and when possible, get involved militarily.

I neglect to mention Imagawa and Hojo, as they are simply pawns of the Takeda.

Since when is strength a problem? Our alliance is not agressive at all. Contrary, we try to keep the status quo and mediate in conflicts, when this is wanted.

The trouble with Oda started long ago. God knows that I have tried everything to avoid hostilities, but Oda's ambitiions are simply to big.

Mikawa has been Imagawa province for long. Now there is a riot. If Mori declares that the leader of the rebels is right, he goes on a dangerous lane. I do not think that many daimyos will follow.

However, Mori says that Hojo and Imagawa are only puppets of Takeda. I do not why he says these offending words. Both daimyos are strong and Imagawa is leading the allied army.

Although Mori is offending, I would like to fulfill his wish. You will get involved militaríly soon. This I promise to you. All you gotta do is wait at home and count the casualties.
:bow:

[darkragnar]

^Finally a Daimyo worth his salt, Have a Cup of Sake with Lord Chosokabe. http://e.deviantart.com/emoticons/a/ahoy.gif

[Prince Cobra]

The Miyoshi daimyo will be offline until Monday. He awaits the next updates and is ready to hear any messages after he is back.

:bow:

[AggonyDuck]

Mikawa has been Imagawa province for long. Now there is a riot. If Mori declares that the leader of the rebels is right, he goes on a dangerous lane. I do not think that many daimyos will follow.



I will remember for future reference that the Imagawa consider 12 years as a long time.

[Rodion Romanovich]

For future reference, I will remember that Oda considers 1 year a long time: it was 1 year since Oda exterminated the last of all other daimyo in the Owari province to take it under his own control, in a process which, among other things, contained an unprovoked military campaign against the Saito clan, the assassination of his own brother Nobuyuki by faking illness, and also the assassination of the true kanrei appointed for the Owari province, namely Yoshimune, which all took place during this period. :dizzy: :playingball:

[AggonyDuck]

Oh, but I have made no claim of having ruled Owari for a long time.

[Prince Cobra]

I have one more day but I am short of time. I will answer you soon

[Rodion Romanovich]

When can we expect the next chapter? :jumping:

[Prince Cobra]

I am finally ready with my decisions. Some changes were made today. :embarassed: :tomato: So if he is late you know who is guilty for it. I do hope Kage will be ready soon. :beam:

P.S. Do not kill the Kanrei, he does his best. :stars: :bow:

[Revolting Friendship]

From Clan Otomo:

I announce that I shall assume leadership of the Otomo-clan, together with these public statements outlining my first acts as ruler of these lands:

-The Otomo Daimyo will not tolerate the unlawful occupation of Chikugo by the Ryozoji-clan. We demand that the Ryozoji Daimyo withdraw his forces and return the province to it's rightful owner, or he will face harsh consequences.

-As the new leader of the Otomo clan I have revised our stance towards the religeous situation in our domains. Having studied the christian scriptures I have decided to convert to this new faith, as it is indeed the truth, and in accordance with the scripture I will dictate these laws to rule all the subjects of the Otomo clan hencefourth:

* Anyone who is found agitating for acts of violence against either the christian or buddhist religion will be put to the sword without pardon, no matter stature or origin.
* Anyone who smear the practitioners of either religion or threaten them with acts of violence or terror will be put to the sword without pardon, no matter stature or origin.
* Anyone who attacks sacred places, practitioners or priests, christians or buddhists, will be cruelly tortured and crucified without pardon, no matter stature or origin. Their families will be put to the sword.
* Freedom to practice either religion is to be respected by all, anyone who resist this in whatsoever way will be put to the sword without pardon, no matter stature, foreigners will be permanently expelled.
* Anyone arming themselves in the name of religion with intent to fight over such matters will be put to the sword, no matter stature or origin. All monastaries will be disarmed, sohei will be expelled from our domains, those who refuse to obide will be put to death. Long enough have the scourge of religious and social unrest plagued our islands, therefore I assume a stance of zero tolerance towards those who persist.

I will delegate the enforcement of these laws unto my retainers, to ensure peace and stability within our borders.

-I extend a public offer of friendship and cooperation to my fellow brother, the Shimazu Daimyo, that we may together ensure that righteousness and peace will rule our island.

[Kagemusha]

In other words, Revolting Friendship will take Warlusters place as Otomo. The next chapter will be out this weekend.:bow:

[Tiberius of the Drake]

Is there going to be an update soon Kage?

[seireikhaan]

Patience, young Padawan. The time shall come soon enough.

[AggonyDuck]

Only thing that worries me is that Kage hasn't made a post since 23 August.

[Rodion Romanovich]

I hope he's ok...

[Prince Cobra]

Probalby he is just busy or offline. I hope so...

[Kagemusha]

Sorry guys! I will write the winter chapter this evening. Reason for my absence was rock concert, certain lovely lady and some other real life stuff. But now im back.Sorry for keeping you guys waiting.

[Seign Thelas]

Completely understandable, Kage. Rock and girls are the best reasons to be absent. Ever.

[Kagemusha]

Chapter 4 Winter 1560- 1561

Autumn turns into winter. Cold Northern wind bring´s snow and bad weather to the isles of Japan. Peasants have gathered what harvest they have gained and spend the winter in the warmth of the fire places of their shags. Some well fed,some starving and cursing the Daimyos who take everything and give nothing back to the poor peasants.
Winter gives break to most of campaigning on the isles, but not even the poor weather and snow cant put out all the flames of war.
On the island of Kuyshu the winter is spend on recovering from the wars that ravaged the islands during the last year.
Shimazu clan does its best to move food and goods to its new areas and is partly succesfull on its attempts to feed the starving population of Huyga that couldnt gather most of the harvest becouse of the attack of their new masters. Nevertheless Shimazu Takahisa is able to stabilize his domain during the winter,which will no doubt give him more resources for the spring.
On the Northern Kuyshu, Ryozoji and their Akizuki allies spend the winter fortifying the province Chikugo for the expected counter attack from Otomo that many think will be fierce.
There arent many news coming from the Otomo domain. There are indications that negotiations are being held between Shimazu and Otomo, but no one knows what the intentions of Otomo are after Otomo Sorin´s public ultimatum towards Ryozoji.

On Chugoku the Mori Motonari remains in peace with his neighbours. Altough there are rumours that Mori clans carpenters on their shipyards are working hard through out the winter.
Amako Haruhisa gives orders to his troops to stay in winter quarters. Also Yamana clan decides not to attack more of the Urakami lands. The two officially declare the dividing of Mimasaka between the two clans.

On Shikoku,the war doesnt halt even on winter. Chosokabe troops continue sieging the Kono capital, which holds out through the heart of winter. On the January 2nd, a meeting is arranged between Chosokabe Kunichika and Kono Michinao.
Under a truce the two Daimyos meet in person near the maingate of Kutsunashima on a cold morning. The sun is blocked by the clouds and icy wind throws snow around the field as Kono Michinao marches out of his castle to meet Chosokabe Kunichika. Who stands in front of the entire Chosokabe army waiting for his enemy. As the hatamoto bodyguards of each Daimyo leave space for the two to talk Kunichika greets Michinao with a slight nod. As Michinao is about to bow in turn, Kunichika suddenly draws out his sword and tryes to slash Michinao with his katana. With a quick move Kono lord steps on the side passing the downward slash and stabs his own sword straight through the midsection of Kunichika.
As the Lord of Chosokabe drops down on his knees with blood flowing from his belly, Michinao steps forward putting himself between the Chosokabe warriors and their lord, who is on his knees, watching the walls of Kutsunashima and her defenders on the walls, while Michinao stares the stupified mass of Chosokabe warriors, who cant understand what has just happened. The sight of Kutsunashima is the last on for the cunning Chosokabe lord, since with a swift move Michinao turns around and slashes his head of with a single strike from his katana.
With this grim sight on their eyes the Chosokabe warriors take a step back as the Kono lord picks up the severed head from the ground with a firm grip from Kunichikas kabuto. Kono Michinao raises the head high up in the air with a thundering roar coming from his mouth. The Kono warriors hail the winner with their cheering from the walls, as their lord throws the head on the crowd before him. Dead silence settles on the Chosokabe army as the head of their master rolls among them, the men do their utmost best not to touch it. Finally the head stops rolling and a young man pick´s it up from the mud. This man is Chosokabe Motochika, the heir of Chosokabe clan.
Motochika doesnt say anything but takes a piece of cloth and wraps his father´s head on it. With a few silent word to one of the Chosokabe general he orders the army back behind their fortifications, leaving Michinao alone in front of his castle,before the older man turns around marches back to his castle with his hatamoto.
Chosokabe continues the siege with their new lord Motochika trough out the winter, but the army is now best to say demoralized after the duel between Kunichika and Michinao. It seems there is lot to think about for the spring for the young Chosokabe lord.

On Kinai. Miyoshi Chokei takes personal command of the army besieging Hatakeyama on Kwatchi province. There is no assault and the castle soesnt surrender either, but thanks to hard work of Miyoshi of creating a solid supply route to Kwatchi earlier dring the year, the large Miyoshi army doesnt suffer much from the Winter. Which makes Hatakeyama Takamasa a worried man. There isnt much anything happening on the region of Kinai as the winter puts all military actions to halt.
The only thing worth mentioning is that in the Asai domain, the power shifts as Asai Nagamasa overthrows his father Hisamasa from the clan leadership after the latter´s unsuccessful invasion to the Kitabatake domain. Demoralized Hisamasa does not put up any kind of fight and instead shaves his head and becomes a monk, thus leaving Nagamasa as the absolute leader of Asai Clan.

The winter silences also the large conflict on Tokaido coast ans the joined army of Takeda,Hojo and Imagawa retreats out from Mikawa and spends the winter in Totomi. The news is that Takeda Shingen join´s the army personally and puts it under a furious training through out the winter, it seems as if Shingen wants to train every man himself and there are rumours among the army that he has truly become an incarnation of the war God Hachiman. It seems that the head of the Takeda has taken a personal note on the conflict against Oda and Tokugawa and tries his best to put his and the allied troops to high readiness for the spring.
In the Etchu. Takeda troops numbering 5000 men, join Uesugi and Shiina on their siege effort of the Jinbo capital. With a determined plan, the combined army makes sure that Jinbo is completely isolated on their capital, with fast cavalry sweeps Takeda denies all resupplying of Toyoma. Nevertheless the Takeda general present, Yamagata Masakage doesnt encourage an assault becouse of the limitations of casulties Shingen has ordered him to follow. While Toyoma holds the siege the whole winter, there is no doubt that the story of Jinbo clan has come to its final verses without divine interference as on the end of the winter 5000 strong Uesugi army marches to the area to add on the besiegers.

On the Hojo domain,the winter is spend on building fortifications on all edges of their area also Ujiasy accepts Yuki to take refuge in his domain and places him as commander of the Hojo fleet. The Satake and Satomi stay put for the winter and it seems that in Kanto plains the winter is used on resting, when the Spring comes, who knows?

In the North. Tendo clan that has bravely fought off the armies of Date, Mogami and Nanbu has to give in. In January the starving defenders surrender uncondinationally after exhausting their supplies. After the clan leadership has committed seppuku, thus ending the road of this northern clan leaving their lands in to hold of the three others.

Deadline for decisions for Spring is 7th of September.

[Ravie]

When will i get the information i need to make my decisions?

[Kagemusha]

Everyone will get their pm´s tomorrow.:yes:

[Prince Cobra]

Great chapter, Kage! By the way from 1st to 10th I will be offline. :bow:

[darkragnar]

0o me Head!

Great work the new chapter , excellent twist's.

[Rodion Romanovich]

Thanks, nice chapter! :2thumbsup:

[Prince Cobra]

Kage, is there any problem to send my decisions on 10th? I still do not have the additional info ( I know this Interactive is not the only thing you do so not problem) but I will be offline... Thanks for understanding. :shame:

[Kagemusha]

Stephen im happy to move the answering date to 10th. Im sorry that many of you are still lacking on the information department. I have only send info pm´s to the Western lords so far. I will try to get the rest sent this evening. Tomorrow im going on a wedding so the next two days will be quiet from my part.:yes:

[SwordsMaster]

Hey kage, just a headsup, I have not received any additional info either. Whenever you get the time.

[seireikhaan]

Same here. Whenever you get back from your wedding, info would be welcomed.

[Tiberius of the Drake]

Take your time im kinda busy right now anyways

[Kagemusha]

I have updated the map and send the remaining infos to players. Those that didnt get any news just didnt have any chances during the winter. Next lets talk about how the economy works in public:

Economy

Each player has the knowledge of the maximum amount of troops he can raise. This is also the indicator of their wealth. Basicly one man= one koku (amount of rise to feed a man for a year). I have thought long and hard about how to solve this and this is how the economy will play out.

For example if you can raise maximum of 20000 men for your army, that means you can alternatively build for the amount of 20000 koku. As Japan is feudal society, the amount of trade is very limited and most income comes from taxing the agriculture.Here are prizes for buildings you can build:

Church/Temple 1000 koku (helps keeping the province happy,converting to other religion).

Teppo factory 10000 Koku (starts construction of your own teppos, first about 100 per season,later cannons etc. and increases its production.)

Castle upgrade 5000 koku (makes you stand sieges longer and betters the training of your men)

ship for your fleet 300 koku( each ship can carry 100 men.)

Each building takes an year to finish,you can build up to 10 ships per season on your coastal provinces.

For example if you can draft 15000 men in maximum, you can start building teppo factory during spring, but after that you only have resources left to maintain army of 5000 untill its completed after an year.

Portuguese and other European traders.

European traders arrive each Spring to Kuyshu. From there they move to Honshu and Shikoku during summer. They carry muskets and cannons as their merchandise,but not enough for all Japan, so depending on the Western Daimyos, the Eastern lords might not get any. Ofcourse they prefer to deal with Christian leaders over Buddhist. Here are the prizes of their products.

musket 10 koku

cannon 500 koku

I hope that clears the economy and foreign merchants a bit, but like i sayed before, this game is about taking controll of Japan,not commerce, we have to keep it simple in order for the IH to work.:bow:

[AggonyDuck]

Oki, good to know. :2thumbsup:

[Derfasciti]

Clan Otomo and Clan Shimazu wish to make an announcement to all the other Daimyo of Nippon.

Seeing as both our clan leaders share the same faith and values, we have determinted that a full military alliance is in order. Both our people's will go to the defense of the others if needed. The Christian faith, as well as our subject buddhists will be protected.


Shimazu Takahashi.

[Rodion Romanovich]

Sorry, I'll have to drop out, something just came up IRL for a few months. Thanks for a great interactive so far, Kage, it's been a lot of fun!

[SwordsMaster]

Sorry to hear that Legio. It's been great having you!

[Rodion Romanovich]

Thanks, you too!

Hopefully I'll be back in around 2 months :2thumbsup:

[Ravie]

Sorry to hear m8, was interesting with you in this IH :D

[Franconicus]

Too sad you have to leave! It is the second time in this game I loose a skilled ally.:no:

I wish you good luck at your mission and hope that you will bring a lot of cannons from your trip to Paris :karate:

[Kagemusha]

Im very sorry to hear that Legio.:embarassed: Well i guess then spot for Takeda is open. This could change the situation in the game drastically.

[Seign Thelas]

You should play it into the story if a player leaves.

IE: Shingen dies and his brother/son takes over, depending on the year and the age of the characters.

[IrishArmenian]

No! Legio! We shall miss you! Come back when you get stuff sorted out!

[Rodion Romanovich]

I just found out the project will start this Monday at the earliest. So I will at least be able to be here to send in the decisions for this turn I suppose, since its deadline is Monday!

[Kagemusha]

I just found out the project will start this Monday at the earliest. So I will at least be able to be here to send in the decisions for this turn I suppose, since its deadline is Monday!

Ok.Legio do you think it would be possible for you to continue, becouse of the slow motion of this game? You should be able to access internet still here and then even during the project. We could drop you out if the playing would turn completely impossible. Please consider that option.:bow:

[Rodion Romanovich]

Ok, I will try... I do understand the trouble it can cause with dropping out players. :shrug: The other players just have to be aware that I may be unable to answer PMs for many days or even weeks, and that I won't be as active as I've been so far

[Prince Cobra]

Miyoshi Chokei is back and will be ready with his decisions soon.

[IrishArmenian]

Wasn't the deadline the tenth or the seventh?

[Kagemusha]

Tenth, but i havent received all the actions yet at all. In game so large as this,its completely understandable.:yes:

[Ravie]

Could u please reply to some of my pm's kage :laugh4: my info pm was lacking ..... just basic info people received in there first PM's


I no ur busy ... when u can :2thumbsup:

[Kagemusha]

Could u please reply to some of my pm's kage :laugh4: my info pm was lacking ..... just basic info people received in there first PM's


I no ur busy ... when u can :2thumbsup:

I will answer to you this evening.:yes:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

Did you get my PM Mr.Kage :-)?

[Kagemusha]

Did you get my PM Mr.Kage :-)?

As Legio is not dropping out, i cant take you in during this chapter,but you can join for the next one. Once the next chapter is out il pm you your starting info:yes:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

ok, Thanks Kage :-)!!

[CountArach]

Have I sent in my PM?

[Kagemusha]

Have I sent in my PM?

Nope.:no:

[King Kurt]

Post by Kage - get all excited - only to find that all it is is kage saying he hasn't had CA's PM:oops:

[Derfasciti]

Orders sent, Kage. :bow:

[Tiberius of the Drake]

has everyone sent orders???

[Seign Thelas]

Pretty sure I did.

[darkragnar]

Miyoshi Chokei , there was a problem with your decisions,it seems that ur ahem...commands arent reaching their proper place, would you pm Darkragnar with the commands and i will give them to the proper channels.

Thank you for your co-operation , and dont forget to add all the details about your future plans and your list of allys and what you inted to do next year.

[Caius]

Is there a slot open?

[Kagemusha]

Is there a slot open?

No. With Warman, the game is full, but if you want i can put you as the first replacement player?:yes:

[Tiberius of the Drake]

saw kagemusha was last post...so excited for update... Dreams dashed
:cry:

[Kagemusha]

Waiting for the Hojo clan decisions.All others i have.This will be a intresting chapter. Hopefully there will be also some banter on the thread during the next chapter since now it seems everything is happening via pm. Remember for example public alliance should always be declared publicly.:yes:

[SwordsMaster]

Hojo apologises for this delay. Lord Hojo ahs been busy with his many commitments, but he has submitted his message already

[Kagemusha]

Chapter 5. Spring 1561

After the cold and hardship of winter months. The nature wakes up for a new Spring. Melting snow from the mountains turns into water and flows to the lowlands of Japan in form of mighty streams. Like the nature,peasants start a new cycle by planting seeds for a new harvest. In places where the war doesnt interrupt their efforts. These places are rare in Japan this spring as the Lords of Japan arm their men and continue their relentless pursuit of power.

On Kuyshu it seems that the Dragon has awaken from its sleep. Otomo Sorin leads personally a force of 21000 men to Chikugo to drive of Ryuzoji and its ally Akizuki clan from the province. At March 13th the two armies meet in the fields near Yanagawa castle. Otomo numbering 21000 men against the 15000 Ryuzoji and allied troops. Battle doesnt brake out immediately except small skirmishes which are used to scout possible weaknesses on the enemy army.
After few days of manouvering, a Shimazu messenger arrives on the Ryuzoji camp. Ryuzoji Takanobu listens to the message of the Shimazu clan and more the messenger sayes more pale Takanobu gets. The fact is that the messenger has an message from Shimazu Takahisa, declaring war to both clans. Takanobu waits calmly after the messenger has left and the says with silent but determined voice to Akizuki Tanezane.

"This is the end my friend. We are doomed. Buddha has put us infront of our enemies in all of his wisdom and what is left to do for us, is to die well."

Tanezane tryes every mean possible to persuade Takanobu to withdraw and fight another time, but Ryozoji daimyo is like a rock. After few days of waiting, the Ryozoji scouts bring message that Shimazu is indeed marching from the South. And with not less then 15000 men, thus making the total of Otomo and Shimazu force to 36000 men, over twice what Ryozoji and Akizuki have. In that situation Akizuki Tanezane decides to withdraw to Chikuzen with his 3000 men and leaves the 12000 strong Ryuzoji army to face the inevitable.

Ryozoji retainers try to persuade Takanobu to attack Otomo before Shimazu gets to the battle field, but the Ryozoji daimyo just laughs to his advisors saying that its more pleasant to die against larger enemy.
On the morning of march 17th Takanobu sends an message to his home province of Hizen, naming his 5 year old son as the new Daimyo of Ryuzoji. After that he and his closest retainers strip of their normal sashimono flags from their armour´s and replace those with white sashimonos that each carry only the name of their bearer in order to easily regognice them,when they are dead.
As the Shimazu standards start to raise from the right of Ryozoji force, Takanobu orders on all out assault to Otomo center. Bullets and arrows tear the flesh of Ryuzoji men as they rush towards the enemy, Takanobu leading the assault personally. The fury of the attack amazes the Otomo force so much, that the Ryuzoji even after taking horrible casulties brakes the first sonaes of the Otomo army and only be deploying his reserves to the battle, Otomo Sorin succeeds on stopping the charge. Shimazu cavalry which has been raiding ahead the army smashes into the rear of Ryozoji and soon after that numerous times wounded Ryuzoji Takanobu dies in the middle of the battle stabbed by numerous spears.
As there is no retreat, most of the Ryozoji force die fighting, taking with them many Otomo and Shimazy warriors. Only about 1000 or so of the Ryuzoji army is able to fight through the Shimazu cavalry and escape to Yanagawa castle. At the end of the battle Ryuzoji has lost about 11000 men, Otomo some 5000 and Shimazu about 1000. The joined army starts on siege on the Yanagawa, which can propably hold no more then a season against such a large force of 30000 men without much supplies and men to defend the castle. On Hizen the senior retainers of Ryozoji raise all the remaining men of the clan numbering about 4000 and start fortifying the province. The 5000 Akizuki warriors in Chikuzen start the same thing. During the Spring Portuguese traders also reach Kyushu and they have with them 10000 muskets and 100 cannons for sale to the clans of Kuyshu. Now it will be time for the Kuyshu daimios to decide how much they can spend on the weapons of the foreign barbarians.

On Western Japan, Mori stays in place like a mountain. The clan continues its work on building its navy and with all the work, they should soon have the most powerfull navy in all Japan.

Amako Haruhisa decides that the time has come to tie up loose ends. Haruhisa sends army of 20000 warriors to Bizen to destroy Urakami, for once and for all. Urakami decides not to fight and their army of 10000 men is besieged inside the walls of Tenjinyama. Urakami capital is well supplied and could last over an year of a siege of Amako forces.

On Shikoku island, Chosokabe Motochika makes peace with Kono and withdraws back to Tosa. Just in time, becouse large Miyoshi army marches to Iyo on april numbering 15000 men lead by Miyoshi Masahiro. As the situation is confusing, the Miyoshi army decides to stay in Iyo as guest´s of Kono for the remaining season and decide what to do with Chosokabe later.

On Kinai,Miyoshi continues the siege of Hatakeyama in Kwatchi province. It seems that Miyoshi´s tactics is to starve out the defending Hatakeyma force.
Tsutsui Junkei of Yamato decides that the time to act has come. Army of 10000 Tsutsui warriors lay siege on capital, which is defended by 5 000 Miyoshi warriors. For some reason Ashikaga Shogun doesnt comment the siege at all in the public.

In the Asakura lands, north from capital, the persecution of Christians have reulted into that the christianity has become basicly non existant. Other then that Asakura sends 5000 men strong force to guard his ally´s the Asai clans domain when the Asai army is away.
The new leader of Asai Nagamasa, decides to continue his fathers policies and renew´s the war against Kitabatake, only this time with different ally. Saito doesnt send his men to aid Nagamasa, but his new friend from South, Clan Oda.

Combined force numbering 19000 men of Asai and Oda invade Ise on April. The old cunning fox Kitabatake Harumoto is too wise and experienced to give fight to the allied force. Instead he decides to fortify in Kitabatake capital with his army of 10000 men. The allies are forced to lay siege which could last well over an year. Also in Asai home province Omi, the situation turns intresting. The 5000 strong Asakura force guarding the province is suddenly faced by a 3000 strong Oda force lead by Shibata Katsuie. The Oda force camps on the province while Asakura keeps things under control. The situation is intresting,since Asakura and Oda´s relationship is an mystery and There are virtually none of the Provinces masters, Asai´s troops in the province.

In Etchu, Takeda is betrayed. On March Jinbo clan is exhausted and surrenders. But on the following morning of the victory, suddenly Uesugi and Shiina warriors attack the sleeping Takeda camp, butchering most of the Takeda warriors on their beds. Yamagata Masakage is still able to escape from the slaughter with few of his closest men. He rides through Etchu and Northern Shinano and witness how Uesugi troops are marching towards central Shinano from all Northern roads.
Dragon of Echigo, Uesugi Kenshin has decided that the time is right to attack. He has organiced the whole Uesugi army to march against Shinano,leaving only 1000 men behind to guard Uesugis other territories Shiina is left to guard Etchu. Kenshin leads the force of 19000 Uesugi warriors personally. Also he has arranged so that other Northern clans can use Uesugi territory as base for their attacks towards south.

With the ambush of Uesugi in Etchu, Takeda has less then 3000 men garrisoning large area of Shinano. Uesugi quickly takes many of the smaller Takeda forts and layes siege to Fukashi castle on april which is defended by 1000 strong garrison of Takeda men lead by Yamagata Masakage, who has hastily organized the defence of the castle.
After the news reach Takeda Shingen in Totomi, he commands the whole 20000 strong Takeda army to march to Shinano,towards Fukashi as soon as possible. At the end of the season Takeda is on the march towards Fukashi and Uesugi besieges the castle. Uesugi has suffered about 1000 men casulties ,taking Takeda fortresses,thanks to clever defences of Takeda. So Kenshin is left with 18000 men and Shingen is coming towards him with 20000. It seems that the two masters of war are about to clash once again.

On the Tokaido coast,things stay silent as Togukawa and small detachment of Oda troops fight of small skirmishes with Imagawa forces on the border of Totomi and Mikawa. Imagawa daimyo, Yoshimoto orders starting of building teppo factory in Imagawa capital Sumpu.

In the Kanto, Hojo Ujiyasu is an worried man. Reports tell that he is being attacked from multiple directions, by multiple enemies.
Huge army of Satomi and Satake numbering 41000 men invade Musashi province and siege the 15000 strong Hojo forces to Kawagoe. The castle is well fortified and should stand the siege for about an year,but such large force could always try to take it by force.

A combined army of Date and Mogami numbering about 15000 invade Kozuke through Uesugi lands on April. The Hojo force numbering 15000 marches to confront the enemy near Numata castle. The two forces deploy facing each other, but becouse of the even number neither side decides to start the battle, thus staying in place to see how the situation will develop. The other remaining Northern clans, Ashina and Nanbu are not committing any forces to war yet, but their efforts could tip the scale of the situation.

The Spring 1561 will be remembered as Spring of war in the history since there are hardly a place in Nippon which has been safe from the flames of war. The following seasons could determine the fate of Japan, so each daimyo should think carefully his next moves.

OOC: I will send personal info to players who´s situation has changed tomorrow.

Deadline for decisions for Summer 1561, is Saturday 23rd September.

[Prince Cobra]

Another great update.

[darkragnar]

@Stephen Asen: thought you'd trap me did you.

[Rodion Romanovich]

Edit: nvm

[Rodion Romanovich]

To Uesugi:

Treaty-breaker, backstabber, and simple murderer who can't face a fair fight. I offer you two options:
1. resolving the matter with personal duel
2. I will burn down every single house in your province, rape every woman, slaughter every child, and torture your entire clan to death

[Rodion Romanovich]

To Oda, Satomi, Satake:

You are all our enemies. We may consider surrender to either of your forces. What are your terms?

====

From Takeda:

Takeda recommends Imagawa to surrender and become vassal to some faction surrounding her territory. Imagawa's army of 5,000 men can not achieve anything alone, but only in cooperation with any of the armies of the other clans can they be anything than a doormat stepped on by the first who chooses to enter Totomi and Suruga. The 5,000 men to be effective need the coordination that only vassalhood, but not alliance, can form. We urge Imagawa to take his chance to have an influence over which clans will win the current huge-scale war. In the meantime, Imagawa are no longer our allies. You have only led us into destruction with your war with Oda. With the destruction of Takeda and Hojo, this choice of whose vassal you will become is your last chance of any influence at all.

We are still allies of Hojo, but we are sad to inform that we have no capacity of helping you in any way whatsoever.

====

To the Buddhist Gods:

The Buddhist Gods are weak, and foul-minded. Their wish for the future is a brutal fate to all honorable men and the rise of the most cruel exterminators as masters and torturers of our people. These Gods I denounce, and may they all die a brutal death, should they ever show up on earth in a human-like form. Whenever heaven and not earth has decided our fate, it has chosen to punish us, because we believed in them. But a God without a believer dies, and becomes powerless. We will now make our destiny by the sword, the spear and the fire. I urge all soldiers of Takeda to drink much aphrodisiac before they enter the cities of our enemies, so that the pillaging will be more joyful.

[Kagemusha]

Pm answered Legio.:bow:

[Seign Thelas]

Sending PMs out, Kage?

Edit: Read the bottom of the post. I'd hope I'm getting a PM. Haha.

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

so I be getting a PM Kage?

[Revolting Friendship]

Open letter from Otomo Sorin, to the remnants of the Ryozoji clan in Hizen:

In the cause of bringing peace to Nippon and unite this war-torn island I will not relent in fighting until the lands of the Ryozoji have been brought under my sway.

Nonetheless, today I greet you as equals. Your men have fought well and with great honour, standing true to their oaths and obligations. The bravery of Ryozoji Takanobu and those who died with him in battle has earned you my sincere respect.

I therefore offer to spare any survivors of the Ryozoji-family still breathing, once this tragic conflict is over, to live in peace at their homes. But to those who wish to honour their courageous leader Ryozoji Takanobu and die with him, I will offer you the oppertunity in earnest.

However, your cowardly ally Akizuki Tanezane, who abandoned you in the fields at Yanagawa, can expect no mercy. Tell this rat to dig deep into his lair, neither heaven nor earth can hide him from his just punishment.



Open letter from Otomo Sorin, to the despicable leader of the Asakura clan:

Shameless dog!

Your actions will not go unpunished for long, as of this day I count you among my enemies. Your cruelty against innocent people will never be forgiven nor forgotten. Expect to see our banners and spears raised against your ramparts at first oppertunity.

And this goes as a warning to any other Daimyo who would plan such acts against the people they have a duty to protect and not oppress. I shall show no leniency towards such grave offences against the christian faith.

[Ravie]

Letter to Takeda Shingen

Trust me now fool?

[IrishArmenian]

To Uesugi:

Treaty-breaker, backstabber, and simple murderer who can't face a fair fight. I offer you two options:
1. resolving the matter with personal duel
2. I will burn down every single house in your province, rape every woman, slaughter every child, and torture your entire clan to death
You challenge Bishamon, the war-god, incarnate to a duel?
Obviously you know something the rest of us do not. Very honorable, to die for the safety of your men. Ah, Shingen, in a paralell world, you'd have made a stalwart ally, a trustworthy confidant and a loyal friend.

[Kagemusha]

Im now starting to send pm´s.Everyone should get theirs this evening.:yes:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

ok thanks Kage :-).

[Ravie]

Letter to all Japan

Clan Asai is glad to announce there Alliance with Clan Iga, our enemies are there enemies and theres ours

Long May our Friendship Thrive

[Kagemusha]

Iga Monto confirms the wise words of Asai Nagamasa.

[Franconicus]

The smooth spring weather has opened the heart of Imagawa for the thoughts of peace and love. Therefore he will give mild peace conditions to all his enemies if they ask him to. However, once the summer sun burns down again, there will no more thought of mercy.

[AggonyDuck]

Well if that is the case, would you mind answering what you think of my offer?

[Rodion Romanovich]

You challenge Bishamon, the war-god, incarnate to a duel?
Obviously you know something the rest of us do not. Very honorable, to die for the safety of your men. Ah, Shingen, in a paralell world, you'd have made a stalwart ally, a trustworthy confidant and a loyal friend.
I will remember to bring a large supply of male criminals known for liking to fornicate other men with me when I storm your castle. I hope they will please you as much as they will please themselves.

[Kagemusha]

Wellcome {BHC}KingWarman888 to the game. He is taking over Clan Yamana.:2thumbsup:

[darkragnar]

Wellcome {BHC}KingWarman888 to the game. He is taking over Clan Yamana.:2thumbsup:
Yama...who ??? :inquisitive:

just joking welcome onboard , hope to be talking with you very soon :2thumbsup:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

Wellcome {BHC}KingWarman888 to the game. He is taking over Clan Yamana.:2thumbsup:


Thanks :yes: this will be fun :yes:

[darkragnar]

Just to add some background between the comming Battle between Takeda and Kagetora (Uesugi Kenshin) watch a pre battle video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gYBjzGMmSZY

Where Kagetora (Uesugi Kenshin) and his vassal Usami Tsuruga fight , beacuse Usami Tsuruga has been called an Traitor by the Uesugi Kenshin for joining Takeda , they were close friends before and relied on Usami's Fatherly adivce (as it says in the video) also as the video says Kenshin is in Black Armor and Moon Helmet .

[Rodion Romanovich]

Bye

[IrishArmenian]

OOC: I am thoroughly perplexed. Who is changed their name? Who is Rodion?

[Kagemusha]

Its Legio.I would still urge him to consider about his decision.:bow:

[Ravie]

so legio has left?

[CountArach]

Open letter from Otomo Sorin, to the despicable leader of the Asakura clan:

Shameless dog!

Your actions will not go unpunished for long, as of this day I count you among my enemies. Your cruelty against innocent people will never be forgiven nor forgotten. Expect to see our banners and spears raised against your ramparts at first oppertunity.

And this goes as a warning to any other Daimyo who would plan such acts against the people they have a duty to protect and not oppress. I shall show no leniency towards such grave offences against the christian faith.
Are we to understand that the most unwise and thoughtless leader Otomo Sorin has accepted Christianity as the true faith? Surely this would be broadly unpopular with their own people!

If you truly are one of the whipped cur who call themselves Christians and openly flaunt their beliefs in the face of the vast Buddhist majority, then I will welcome your spears with my own men. I assume that Fate will have many things in store for us, and I am sure that amongst them will be us facing each other upon the field of battle.

[Franconicus]

Well if that is the case, would you mind answering what you think of my offer?
If you want to ask for peace, send me a messanger. Your last one went mad before he reached me. :cry:

[Kagemusha]

All the pm´s are now sent.:bow:

[AggonyDuck]

If you want to ask for peace, send me a messanger. Your last one went mad before he reached me. :cry:

I offered you a peace agreement and clearly you do not find it to be a good proposition. Oh well, if you wish to prolong this, so be it.

[Prince Cobra]

From Miyoshi Chokei,leader of the mighty Miyoshi clan

To Tsutsui Junkei

I offer a personal meeting in the area near Kyoto between me and the leader of the Tsutsui clan. :bow:

[Kagemusha]

What Miyoshi Chokei would possibly want to talk about?

Tsutsui clans emissary.

[Prince Cobra]

Terms of peace.

[Kagemusha]

In that case if you want to be open with your terms. Be so kind and give them right now, right here.

Tsutsui emissary

[Prince Cobra]

I want a compensation for the lands my friend Matsunaga Hisahide lost. I think this will be asolid ground for the peace between our clans.

[Kagemusha]

You want compensation from the lands we retook from Miyoshi invaders lead by Matsunaga Hisahide? We should compensate you for driving your men out from our lands? Our reply is: Never.

Tsutsui emissary.

[Prince Cobra]

You want compensation from the lands we retook from Miyoshi invaders lead by Matsunaga Hisahide? We should compensate you for driving your men out from our lands? Our reply is: Never.

Tsutsui emissary.

Then why should I pull out of Kwatchi? I think a personal meeting will be necessary here to improve the situation.

[Kagemusha]

Our terms for peace are following.Leave Kwatchi and never attack Yamato or Kwatchi again and Hatakeyama and Tsutsui clans shall live in peace with you. Unless you are willing to accept these terms, we see little point meeting you unless in full arms and on battlefield.

Tsutsui Emissary

[Prince Cobra]

There are some things that can not be discussed by emissaries. This is one of them.

[Kagemusha]

Then send a letter to my master, but if you think he is foolish enough to walk into your trap disguised as meeting, you are wrong.

Tsutsui Emissary

[Prince Cobra]

Then send a letter to my master, but if you think he is foolish enough to walk into your trap disguised as meeting, you are wrong.

Tsutsui Emissary

Ha, as far as I can remember the last similiar trap ended in a pathetic way for the plotter himself. I am not a fool, either. I believe in the Bushido code and I follow it.

[Prince Cobra]

Declaration

The Miyoshi proudly announce an allaince with the Kono. By mutual agreement, the Miyoshi clan invites Chosokabe Motochika to sent an emissary in order the peace in Shikoku to be settled. :bow:

Miyoshi Chokei

P.S. Kage could you explain the exact role of the teppos on the battlefield? Do their bullets end (and they should be bought?)

[Kagemusha]

Declaration

The Miyoshi proudly announce an allaince with the Kono. By mutual agreement, the Miyoshi clan invites Chosokabe Motochika to sent an emissary in order the peace in Shikoku to be settled. :bow:

Miyoshi Chokei

P.S. Kage could you explain the exact role of the teppos on the battlefield? Do their bullets end (and they should be bought?)

They are effective Stephen Asen, Here is an article for everyone to read about Teppo´s:

http://samurai-archives.com/ste.html

And another of military aspects of Daimyo in general:

http://samurai-archives.com/military.html

I hope this answers your question.:yes:

[SwordsMaster]

Hojo is displeased with the madness raging across Nippon. Know that Hojo soldiers have not lost their fighting skill, nor their spears have rusted over the winter. As the BushiDo indicates we will fight until we can fight no more. And then we will die.

There will be no more peace with Uesugi. His treachery has become obvious for all peoples who do not break their treaties, and they will be treated like dogs. The Yuki will stand by Hojo, as well as Imagawa and Takeda, and anyone else who does not wish to have their lands invaded by assasins without scruples.

I call to all the Lords worthy of that name. For if the Lords have no honour, how can it be expected from their vassals? Is this the Nippon you want? My ancestors are ashamed of you and so am I.

[darkragnar]

Declaration

The Miyoshi proudly announce an allaince with the Kono. By mutual agreement, the Miyoshi clan invites Chosokabe Motochika to sent an emissary in order the peace in Shikoku to be settled. :bow:

Miyoshi Chokei


Emissary sent, speak your message to him and we will reply as soon as possible.

[IrishArmenian]

Hojo is displeased with the madness raging across Nippon. Know that Hojo soldiers have not lost their fighting skill, nor their spears have rusted over the winter. As the BushiDo indicates we will fight until we can fight no more. And then we will die.

There will be no more peace with Uesugi. His treachery has become obvious for all peoples who do not break their treaties, and they will be treated like dogs. The Yuki will stand by Hojo, as well as Imagawa and Takeda, and anyone else who does not wish to have their lands invaded by assasins without scruples.

I call to all the Lords worthy of that name. For if the Lords have no honour, how can it be expected from their vassals? Is this the Nippon you want? My ancestors are ashamed of you and so am I.
Very honourable of you, Daiymo Hojo! I am eager to see how many Clan's as immaculate as yours that join you in your cause! I am only half-jesting, as we, the "underhanded" clans, are much more common than anyone would want.

Also, to Takeda Shingen, what is this taunt of? I do not understand? But, to each his own. You must be spending too much time with Kosaka Masanobu.

[Prince Cobra]

Emissary sent, speak your message to him and we will reply as soon as possible.

Do you agree to have a peace with the Miyoshi?

[darkragnar]

...

lord have u been drinking too much sake ??? is this really the Kenrai of japan speaking like this?
we were never at war with miyoshi nor are we at war with anyone else at the moment Kono and Chosokabe have signed an Peace accord in the Spring? we ,as well as im ,sure everyone else would like to know what you're talking about ? https://img473.imageshack.us/img473/4082/whycd5.gif

[Prince Cobra]

Chosokabe Motochika,

Miyoshi Chokei is perfectly aware of the fact no war has been declared on you by the Miyoshi side. You have just misunderstood the question: your father, may he rest in peace, waged numerous wars against almost all of his neighbours. You were asked if you would continue his unwise policy starting war against the Miyoshi or you prefer to live in peace with the Miyoshi.

[AggonyDuck]

The Oda clan wishes to apologize for its aggression against the Kitabatake clan and would like to offer peace to the Kitabatake if they are willing to accept it. We underestimated your wisdom, thus leading us to a siege against a determined foe that could be prolonged for years. Thus we come before you with an offer of white peace, hoping that you will accept it.

Oda Nobunaga

[Kagemusha]

Oda Nobunaga is free to leave Ise and never come back,with sword in his hand. We hope that Asai Nagamasa would have the sense in him to do so also. If not we may have to throw you out,just like your father. Kitabatake clan has no taste for war, because we see it as waste. But if attacked,we will ruthlesly destroy our foes. We have seen many attack us, but non have prevailed,so we urge the clans that wish war,to take their wars elsewhere.

Kitabatake Harumoto

[AggonyDuck]

The Oda clan thanks the Kitabatake daimyo for his decision.

[Derfasciti]

OOC: Sent my orders already. Finally i'm actually early. :charge:

Oh, and by the way more applause for another brilliant chapter. Keep up the good work, my friend. :bow:

[Kagemusha]

Im sorry to announce that Legio has left the game.:shame: It seems real life has taken a great player from us. Im taking over Takeda for this round.If anyone has something to talk with Takeda pm me.


To Uesugi Kenshin

Dragon of Echigo,

If you have any man in you,stay at Fukashi and we will come and destroy you and your Uesugi force in battle. This is open challenge and if you withdraw in the face of might of Takeda army, we see you as coward from this onwards.

Takeda Shingen

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

Im sorry to announce that Legio has left the game.:shame: It seems real life has taken a great player from us. Im taking over Takeda for this round.If anyone has something to talk with Takeda pm me.


To Uesugi Kenshin

Dragon of Echigo,

If you have any man in you,stay at Fukashi and we will come and destroy you and your Uesugi force in battle. This is open challenge and if you withdraw in the face of might of Takeda army, we see you as coward from this onwards.

Takeda Shingen


Sad Day :sweatdrop:


Be Sending my Decsions in today.

[Kagemusha]

From Takeda to Date, Satake and Satomi clans

What is it that you want with this war against Hojo? Do you want land or what is the reason behind these cruel attacks against our ally? We can assure you that Takeda and our allies will give you peace. Either you will get it by leaving the lands of Hojo or by dying in our hands,so you will find peace in death.

Takeda Shingen

[darkragnar]

Sorry was a bit bust and hadnt really checked the thread, be sending my decisios and the PM to Miyoshi soon , if only i can remeber what i planned to do before...

edit:
Reply to Miyoshi

Sorry for the late reply , wasnt comming on the site very much.

Chosokabe would absolutely want peace with the miyoshi because the Chosokabe think this is an utter waste , we never harbored any ill towards miyoshi, and only we wont again if miyoshi "Listens" to us as equals and talks with us,

Just think about it , MIyoshi is getting his pantys in a bunch for imagined reasons , we never want to fight angainst your clan , but if you push us into a corner you will find out it is not prudent to corner a tiger.

We extend our hand in friendship to miyoshi with just 1 burden attached to it, Treat us as Equals.

and not to nitpick or anything , neither me nor my father started any wars with Miyoshi nor did we invade mIyoshi.


You were asked if you would continue his unwise policy starting war against the Miyoshi or you prefer to live in peace with the Miyoshi.

[Kagemusha]

Im moving the date to send PM´s to Sunday 23rd September, since it seems that many parties are in the middle of something. I would like to remind everyone that seeking actively solutions to their problems diplomatically will reward players, but if you leave your options open just because you havent pursued them, you shouldnt be sorry if there are bad times coming for your clan.:whip:

[seireikhaan]

Im moving the date to send PM´s to Sunday 23rd September, since it seems that many parties are in the middle of something. I would like to remind everyone that seeking actively solutions to their problems diplomatically will reward players, but if you leave your options open just because you havent pursued them, you shouldnt be sorry if there are bad times coming for your clan.:whip:
OOC-Hmm? Are you saying I'm actually supposed to respond to that message earlier? Do you actually call that diplomacy? "Get out or else!" Yeah, that doesn't really strike me as the sort of message I'm gonna be gonna respond to.

[Kagemusha]

OOC: Maybe Shingen is taunting you?~;) Daimyos had that habbit.:smash:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

Ha, as far as I can remember the last similiar trap ended in a pathetic way for the plotter himself. I am not a fool, either. I believe in the Bushido code and I follow it.


I,Yamana Toyosada, Also follow the Bushido code, for the information for the other damiyos.

I think any disputes should be settled peacefully with Damiyo Miyoshi.






Yamana Toyosada, of the Yamana Clan.

[Prince Cobra]

Sorry was a bit bust and hadnt really checked the thread, be sending my decisios and the PM to Miyoshi soon , if only i can remeber what i planned to do before...

edit:
Reply to Miyoshi

Sorry for the late reply , wasnt comming on the site very much.

Chosokabe would absolutely want peace with the miyoshi because the Chosokabe think this is an utter waste , we never harbored any ill towards miyoshi, and only we wont again if miyoshi "Listens" to us as equals and talks with us,

Just think about it , MIyoshi is getting his pantys in a bunch for imagined reasons , we never want to fight angainst your clan , but if you push us into a corner you will find out it is not prudent to corner a tiger.

We extend our hand in friendship to miyoshi with just 1 burden attached to it, Treat us as Equals.

and not to nitpick or anything , neither me nor my father started any wars with Miyoshi nor did we invade mIyoshi.


Then let's more peaceful times come for the Shikoku island! :bow:

OOC: Not a problem at all, @darkragnar.


I,Yamana Toyosada, Also follow the Bushido code, for the information for the other damiyos.

I think any disputes should be settled peacefully with Damiyo Miyoshi.






Yamana Toyosada, of the Yamana Clan.

:bow:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

OCC: I respond to you pm later Stephen, I'm in school now :-)

[Seign Thelas]

Im moving the date to send PM´s to Sunday 23rd September, since it seems that many parties are in the middle of something. I would like to remind everyone that seeking actively solutions to their problems diplomatically will reward players, but if you leave your options open just because you havent pursued them, you shouldnt be sorry if there are bad times coming for your clan.:whip:

OOC: Um. This doesn't sit well with me. Diplomacy is an option. War is an option, you shouldn't be punished for selecting an option, unless it was the blatantly wrong one. There wasn't some overseeing figure in real history telling the daimyo they can't war with each other.

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

OOC: Um. This doesn't sit well with me. Diplomacy is an option. War is an option, you shouldn't be punished for selecting an option, unless it was the blatantly wrong one. There wasn't some overseeing figure in real history telling the daimyo they can't war with each other.

argeed

[AggonyDuck]

OOC: Um. This doesn't sit well with me. Diplomacy is an option. War is an option, you shouldn't be punished for selecting an option, unless it was the blatantly wrong one. There wasn't some overseeing figure in real history telling the daimyo they can't war with each other.

What Kage means is that sometimes it would be wise to pursue a diplomatic approach to matters, instead of resolving everything with force, because with force there is always the ever present risk of overextending yourself. I've got the feeling he said something else there too, but I can't exactly grasp it.

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

What Kage means is that sometimes it would be wise to pursue a diplomatic approach to matters, instead of resolving everything with force, because with force there is always the ever present risk of overextending yourself. I've got the feeling he said something else there too, but I can't exactly grasp it.


ahhhhhhhh, that what he meant :yes:

[Revolting Friendship]

OOC:

With Kage's blessing I'll be running the map-updates from now.
Hopefully this will make orientation easier and more informative.
The new map will probably also make it easier to compare province-names to the province-map since it's based on that picture.


Anyway, here is our current situation.
http://www.computersonline.se/webpic/_pictures/spring1561.jpg

-Map-updates will be made after the chapter situation, not the situation when I start working on it, thus the Oda siege of Kitabatake is still displayed.
-Locations of castle sieges are not actual(not intentionally anyway:laugh4:) but simply marks the province it's taking place in.
-Sieges ending in the chapter will not be marked unless they result in battle.
-"Areas of conflict" marks both location of battles and provinces where larger bodies of troops are manouvering to do battle.
-Major battles will be detailed on the map for the casual visitor to follow events and for easy reference. Sieges will not be included until they are resolved(assault/sally), peaceful withdrawals will not count.

[Seign Thelas]

Nice this makes it MUCH easier to see what's happening.

[Tiberius of the Drake]

Great map RF. Keep up the great work

[seireikhaan]

Agreed, the map is very nice indeed, great work.:yes:

[CountArach]

Very nice.

[Kagemusha]

Thanks, Revolting Friendship,or should i say Tomte of Doom,(You should change that username m8:laugh4: ) Great looking map.I have edited it to the first post.:2thumbsup:

[darkragnar]

Hi Tomte , excellent work with the map.

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

Thanks for the Map. Really easier to understand now :-).

[AggonyDuck]

Decisions sent a minute or two ago. Sorry about taking so long with them, but been a bit busy with work. Anyway I look forward to seeing how this coming season will develop.

[Prince Cobra]

The map is fantastic... :verycool:

[IrishArmenian]

Love the map, my friend!

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

very exiciting, makes the game more fun :-)

[Revolting Friendship]

OOC:
I really hope the next chapter will come today.:sweatdrop:

[AggonyDuck]

Well are we waiting on anyone to send their decisions?

[Revolting Friendship]

I think everyone has sent them now. Regardless, the deadline is today, if anyone has failed to send their orders before deadline, they should simply have to wait for the next chapter. That's why it's called deadline. :idea2:

[Kagemusha]

Im waiting for decisions of Asai,Imagawa and Hojo. Others i have.:yes:

[Revolting Friendship]

Kage:

What if they do not send in their decisions today? Will you postpone the chapter again?

[Kagemusha]

I will wait until i get them,probably tomorrow.:smash:

[IrishArmenian]

I've been quite scattered lately, has our messenger arrived?

[Revolting Friendship]

Aw MAN! First 21st, then 23rd, now tomorrow. I'm shitting bricks here. Hayaku, minna hayaku kudasai! :charge:

;)

IrishArmenian: It would seem you have sent yours yeah. We're waiting for Hojo, Asai and Imagawa.

[Ravie]

Sorry mine are sent.. 1 hour 30 mins after the deadline :shame:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

you get my stuff ok m8??

[Kagemusha]

Yes.Now i have all the answers and the chapter will be out this evening.:bow:

[Franconicus]

You are really fast!!!

[Kagemusha]

You are really fast!!!

:bow:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

Dang man you fast :beam:


so exciting! :yes:

[Kagemusha]

Chapter 6. Summer 1561.

https://img169.imageshack.us/img169/6715/osakacastleqm1.jpg

War ravages the countryside of Japan, when various Daimyos fight to take new lands or defend their current domains. While the noble Daimyos march with their great banners flying in the wind, the poor peasants struggle to survive in the chaos, burying their children along the way. Is there any hope for peace or will the war eat up everything, including hope? That remains to be seen.

In Kuyshu the alliance of Shimazu and Otomo seems completely unstoppable, as they continue the offence against the remnants of Ryozoji and Akizuki.
The allies send 18000 men to invade Chikuzen, while 12000 men stay in Chikugo in order to starve out the small Ryuzoji garrison of Yanagawa which cant survive for long without enough supplies or water.
The overwhelming numbers of invading Shimazu and Otomo, force Akizuki Tanezane to fortify to his Akizuki castle with his 5000 men and hope for the best. In order to celebrate the victory over Ryozoji during Spring, Shimazu Takahisa decides to start building a Church for the Christian God, in his capital Kagoshima. The Portuguese arrive to Kyushu and sell some of their weapons to Shimazu, while Otomo doesnt buy anything from the foreigners.

In Chugoku, Mori Motonari stays in his domain and it seems that the Mori is one of the few clans that have chosen the ways of peace, while the war ravages the land of Japan. The Spanish trade armada has split after visiting Kuyshu and while the other part will reach Chugoku area during the next season, the other part heads towards Shikoku and will reach the clans of the island during autumn. The fastest ships might even reach Kinai, but that depends much of the amount of trade with the Western clans and if the winds are favourable.
Amako Haruhisa engages in diplomatic efforts to bring the Urakami resistance to end. The answer is clear. After about ten minutes inside castle, the head of the emissary travels back to the Amako camp outside the walls of Tenjinyama with haste as its thrown from the walls and after the head,the torso follows suit landing to the moat of the castle.
Yamana Clan sends men to support Amako´s efforts and supplies the siege force with additional 8000 men, thus expanding the total force to 28000 men.

In the island of Shikoku. Miyoshi army marches out from Kono lands guided by the Kono warriors. The army commanded by Miyoshi Masayasu arrives safely to Awa and remains there stationed in Hakuchi castle.

On the mainland Hatakeyama resists the Miyoshi siege stubbornly,while he and his men are starving and there is even rumours about cannibalism inside the walls of Takeyama castle.
Tsutsui Junkei continues the siege of the capital, while the well supplied Miyoshi warriors continue the determined defense of the capital.

In Ise the Oda army which have sieged Kitabatake capital, suddenly withdraws and marches away. Just like Nobunaga had promised to Kitabatake Harumoto publicly. Leaving 10000 Asai warriors to face the same amount of Kitabatake warriors. In the following day further 2000 Asai warriors leave also hastily towards Asai home province Omi. During the night of June 3rd, Kitabatake Harumoto leads a determined sally out from Anotsu castle. Instead of attacking the Asai from all gates he decides to concentrate his forces to the rear gate of castle. the Asai defense ring is too thin to stop the Kitabatake sally and once breached the Asai army starts an semi chaotic rout towards the North. Kitabatake Harumoto send most of his cavalry, about 2000 men to pursuit the Asai,while his main army takes control of the Asai baggage train in order to get supplies. later during the night the Kitabatake cavalry chasing the withdrawing Asai army is ambushed by Oda. Nobunaga ordered his army to withdraw from outside the vicinity of Anotsu, but instead of withdrawing from the province, he hides his army, while Asai force was used as an bate. The Kitabatake cavalry is annihilated in the ambush on the nearby hills of Anotsu castle, while only few survivors are able to bring back word to Kitabatake Harumoto that peace is far away from Ise. During the series of fights during the night, Kitabatake looses about 3000 of his infantry and about 1950 of his mounted samurais. The casulties for Asai are 3000 men and about 100 men for Oda.
After receiving the news of the ambush,Kitabatake Daimyo quickly closes the gates of Anotsu and wisely so, as the allied army reappears in the morning to continue the siege.
In the Asai home domain, Omi. 2000 Iga warriors and 2000 of Asai´s own men arrive to the province on june 5th. The situation has been unclear as The Asakura forces and Oda forces under Shibata Katsuie fight off series of small skirmishes with the help of local Asai men on both sides, as they are confused who is the enemy and who the friend. Both sides loose about 500 of their men in the skirmishes. But when the 4000 Asai forces reach the province,the local Asakura commander Asakura Kageakira withdraws to Echizen, while Shibata Katsuie stays in the province with his men.
It seems that open war between Oda and Asakura has started. Asakura Yoshikage starts building a teppo factory in his capital Ichijo no Dani and raises additional forces for a possible campaign.
Saito clan mobilizes their entire army, but stays put inside Mino. The 3000 Takeda warriors there leave with haste to support their master in Shinano.

On Tokaido coast, Imagawa Yoshimoto, starts and series of terrible raids to Mikawa. Killing and burning everything what the Imagawa warriors encounter. Tokugawa Ieasy orders his men to kill off the invaders, but the few skirmishes that happen, wont stop the ravaging of Mikawa. Both sides loose few hundred men during the raids. The civilian population of Mikawa suffers a lot from the raids as the Imagawa warriors give no quarter to anyone they encounter.

In Shinano, Takeda Shingen gathers his men as he marches towards the Uesugi force. With 3000 Takeda warriors from Mino and 7000 from Kai, The Takeda army numbers grow to 30000 men. In the face of the odds, Uesugi Kenshin decides to withdraw back to the Northern Shinano with his 18000 men. The Takeda army decides not to follow and spend the summer in central Shinano, joined by the 1500 men of Yamagata Masakage who defended Fukashi castle successfully. Uesugi Kenshin decides also to grant the entire Etchu to Shiina clan, in order so that he can rely them also in the future. Shiina sends 5000 men to support Uesugi in Northern Shinano as sign of their gratitude. So in the end of the season, there are 31500 Takeda warriors in central Shinano, facing 23000 strong Uesugi army in Northern Shinano.

In Kozuke the stand off, between Date and Hojo continues as Ashina stays in his own domain.
In the Kanto, Hojo Ujiasy mobilizes his entire army, mustering every man available. With a determined effort, he personally leads a force numbering 20000 to Musashi and starts harassing the army of Satake and Satomi, avoiding a major battle. Because of the good knowledge of the local land,Hojo is more successful and while Satake and Satomi loose about 1000 warriors on the numerous skirmishes, Hojo only looses about 500. In the end of the season the combined Satake and Satomi army numbers about 40000 men while Ujiasy has little less then 20000 with him and little less then 15000 in Kawagoe castle besieged by the force of Satake and Satomi. Satomi and Satake try to torch down Kawagoe castle continuously during the summer, but the defenders are able to put down the fires.

Deadline for the answers for the Autumn is Sunday 30th of September. I will send the info pm´s during today and tomorrow.:bow:

[Ravie]

Awesome !

Again foiled by the great Kitabatake! May his death be even more painful

[Kagemusha]

Thanks Ravie.:smash: Also Takeda is open for a new player. If there arent any,i will continue controlling it myself.:yes:

[Seign Thelas]

To the Lords Otomo and Shimazu,

I would request a word with you two Lords, if it is not too much trouble, it regards the Akizuki clan. I would like to work to reach a peace with you.

To the Lord Amako,

I wish to further negotiate terms of our peace.

To Lord Chosokabe and Kono,

I would like to discuss the situation in Shikoku with you two Lords.

Regards,
Mori Motonari

[Kagemusha]

Lord Kono is ready to hear the proposals of lord Mori. Send a letter to us an we will reply to your proposals. Unless you want to speak publicly, which is fine to us also.

Kono Michinao

[Franconicus]

Nice chapter, kage:bow:
First time ever that I did not have bad luck.

Again, Oda Nobunaga showed, that he has no honor. It is time that the brave daimyios end his dirty tricks.:karate:

[Kagemusha]

Thanks Franc.~:) About your luck. Some say luck is like the wind, it turns suddenly and before you know, it might turn again.~;)

[AggonyDuck]

Ack, Kitabatake has foiled our plans twice. If nothing else we bow to respect the skill of Kitabatake Harumoto. We have yet to met anyone who could match him. We will hold a tea ceremony in a nearby shrine to honour the deeds of the Kitabatake daimyo and his warriors.

[AggonyDuck]

If the Oda are dishonourable then the Imagawa are nothing but cowardly brutes. Atleast we have the decency to fight true warriors while the Imagawa content themselves with butchering innocent men, women and children. First you cowered behind your alliances and then you stoop down to targeting the peasants. If there is a clan that is the laughing stock of Japan, it certainly is the petty Imagawa.

[Revolting Friendship]

To Môri Motonari from Ôtomo Sorin:

Honoured Lord. We are happy to recieve words from you on peaceful terms.

I understand that you wish to mediate peace between our alliance and the Akizuki-clan. I suspect that they might have turned to you requesting help? Be that as it may, I respect your wishes to protect the weaker.
However, I wish to remind you on the subject of history in this conflict, please bear with me:

Not long ago the lord of the Ôtomo-clan turned to the proud Ryûzôji-clan with a proposal for them to enter vassal-ship to their stronger neighbours, that we would establish a good order of hierarchy in this splintered land and secure peace, instead of war.

With our superior might we could have attacked them outright, were we governed by greed, seeing as we already existed in a state of war. But we chose the peaceful path.
How was our generousity answered? The trusted and loyal retainer I sent to present this offer was returned to me, short of his body, carried forth in a blood-soaked basket.

In almost the same breath as this despicable act, the Ryûzôji called upon their neighbour Akizuki Tanezane and together attacked my holdings in Chikugo, burning villages, murdering and pillaging, without me even having massed forces for an attack at their borders. They ganged up against us as petty bandits, without a hostile provocation.

After the theft of Chikugo I demanded the return of the province and nothing else, a request they blatantly ignored, instead they fortified the province and prepared for further bloodshed. Thus, I drew up my host and answered back at their provokations in full. Together with my wise and trusted ally Shimazu Takahisa, we made them pay for their transgressions.

However, seeing the fortune turned against him, Akizuki Tanezane proved himself to be nothing more than dishonourable scum of the lowliest kind, abandoning his ally on the field, and fled like a whipped dog back to his land.

Such a man is not suitable as the Lord of Chikuzen, and I shall remove him from this post and let the responsibility pass to competent hands. I hope that you, most honoured Môri Motonari, will recognize the truth in what I've put before you, and refrain from supporting Akizuki Tanezane, and let him reap what he himself has sown.

Honourable Lord, I hold you in outmost respect and count you among my friends. Now you humbly protest the aggression of our alliance, which I still respect as an isolated matter. But where was your voice, friend, when the Ryûzôji and the Akizuki ravaged the province of Chikugo, burning villages and taking my castles?

Yours in truth,

Ôtomo Sorin

[IrishArmenian]

No honour on the part of the Oda? Look to the Imagawa! They destroy all life before them! They are truly scourges of the earth and an expedient purge of all 'animals' loyal to the name Hojo is necessary and evident!
With shock and disgust,
--Date Haramune

[Seign Thelas]

The Lord of the Mori sees the truth behind Lord Otomo Sorin's words and will withdraw any prospect of support to the Akizuki. He offers his apologies for any ill will he may have expressed. :bow:

[Revolting Friendship]

From the Ôtomo to Môri Motonari:

Our Lord has taken no offense from your intervention and wishes to express his gratitude for the continued peaceful relationship between our clans.



Open call from Ôtomo Sorin, to the besieged forces of the Akizuki-clan and their leader, Tanezane:

Men of Chikuzen, such is the plead of Lord Ôtomo,

This siege could see its end with the loss of one mans life or that of thousands. Akizuki Tanezane has brought you all to this fate. In all honour, should he wish to restore it; he still has the option to redeem himself by ending his own unworthy life, and spare those of his men.

We do not expect the men defending their Lord to betray their own loyalty, but we ask only that their Lord does not betray the trust his men has vested in him.
Akizuki Tanezane! Turn your lands and men over to the Ôtomo and they need not vainly die beside you.

But if it is your wish that they should do so, this may be counted to your previous failures, as our ally Shimazu Takahisa, the Ôtomo warriors as well as their Lord stand ready to deliver battle to you!

[IrishArmenian]

Clan Date is happy to see peace emerge and congratulates the Clans Otomo and Mori on their diplomatic exchanges! We give you our blessing, may you prosper, and may generations pass before your peace is threatened!

[darkragnar]

To Lord Chosokabe and Kono,

I would like to discuss the situation in Shikoku with you two Lords.

Regards,
Mori Motonari

Honored Lord you have our Ear , send us a message and we will give you the attention you deserve or if it pleases you to declare something in public that will also please us, we are listening with great intent.

[CountArach]

Great chapter Kage! :2thumbsup:

[Franconicus]

No honour on the part of the Oda? Look to the Imagawa! They destroy all life before them! They are truly scourges of the earth and an expedient purge of all 'animals' loyal to the name Hojo is necessary and evident!
With shock and disgust,
--Date Haramune

Dear Haramune,

Obviously you still think that war is a childsplay. I tell you, war is hard and bloody. If you cannot stand this fact, go back to your castle and ask the Hojo warriors to protect you!

Imagawa

[King Kurt]

[B]To the Lord Amako,

I wish to further negotiate terms of our peace.



Regards,
Mori Motonari

To the Lord Mori Motonari

Our peace has been a beacon to the whole of the lands of the Daimyos - would that some of our fellow Lords had followed our path of peace.

I am open to further discussion of our alliance and would welcome your private messenger.

Regards
The Lord Amako

[AggonyDuck]

Dear Haramune,

Obviously you still think that war is a childsplay. I tell you, war is hard and bloody. If you cannot stand this fact, go back to your castle and ask the Hojo warriors to protect you!

Imagawa

There is a huge difference between fighting a war and murdering peasants, and it definately seems like the Imagawa are doing the latter. Either way your murderous strategy will only bring more harm upon you in the end. You are not fighting the Tokugawa anymore, but you are fighting the province of Mikawa and its inhabitants. Do you think they will just forget your deeds?
You've better have the courage to commit seppuku when they day of your defeat comes, because I do not think the peasants of Mikawa will have any mercy for you if you are captured.

[Franconicus]

Oda,

I do not know, if you have ever heard of the bushido, which is respected by daymios all over Japan, expect by you.

These are the virtues:

Rectitude (義, gi?)
Courage (勇, yū?)
Benevolence (仁, jin?)
Respect (礼, rei?)
Honesty (誠, makoto or 信 shin?)
Honour, Glory (名誉, meiyo?)
Loyalty (忠義, chūgi?)

I accuse you for violating

Rectitude and Courage (by hiding your soldiers with mascarades)
Honesty and Honour (by invading Kitabatake without declaration of war, by breaking a peace agreement)
Loyalty (by supporting the rebels from my province).

You are a disgrace.

By the way, why should it be against the bushido if I punish rebels in my own province?

[Kagemusha]

To Otomo Sorin

Mighty enemy. We have seen our mistakes in the past and now understand that we should have died on the plains of Yanagawa. In order to remedy our mistake we have decided to fight to the last. If you have honour and wish to help us regain ours,you will order your troops to assault Akizuki castle. The sooner then better.

Akizuki Tanezane

EDIT: all info pm´s have been sent.:bow:

[Kagemusha]

To Asai Nagamasa and Oda Nobunaga

You are young and ambitious men. I have seen already 57 winters and many attackers. You are two leaders of two young clans. My Clan has the blood of Emperor Murakami, who lived before year thousand in our veins. Your two clans have become independent under my eyes,during my life time. Asai clan you were nothing but retainers of Kyôgoku clan untill you rebelled against them on 1516 when i was 13 years old. So i have lived longer then your house as Daimyo´s,great names. For Oda, You had Shiba Clan as your nominal overlords only 11 years a go. We the Kitabatake have seen Great names rising and disappearing to oblivion many times. Most of the time it was greed and hunger for power that destroyed many clans before you and maybe also many after you. Maybe for some, its enough to be a lord for a day and a fool for a lifetime, but for you two im offering this advice not as enemy, but as man to another man.
Leave us be and we will let you live. Do it not and you can only blame yourselves for the destruction of your clans.

Kitabatake Harumoto

[AggonyDuck]

To Asai Nagamasa and Oda Nobunaga

You are young and ambitious men. I have seen already 57 winters and many attackers. You are two leaders of two young clans. My Clan has the blood of Emperor Murakami, who lived before year thousand in our veins. Your two clans have become independent under my eyes,during my life time. Asai clan you were nothing but retainers of Kyôgoku clan untill you rebelled against them on 1516 when i was 13 years old. So i have lived longer then your house as Daimyo´s,great names. For Oda, You had Shiba Clan as your nominal overlords only 11 years a go. We the Kitabatake have seen Great names rising and disappearing to oblivion many times. Most of the time it was greed and hunger for power that destroyed many clans before you and maybe also many after you. Maybe for some, its enough to be a lord for a day and a fool for a lifetime, but for you two im offering this advice not as enemy, but as man to another man.
Leave us be and we will let you live. Do it not and you can only blame yourselves for the destruction of your clans.

Kitabatake Harumoto

I respect your advice and truly it is very good advice, but currently this is a land filled with ambitions. The only thing that can offer us protection from the ambitions of other daimyo is sheer military power, that is again tied to the amount of men you can sustain and this again is tied to the land under your control. This is why I am in Ise. I cannot ward off my opponents without increasing my military strength.

The Kitabatake clan holds my full respect and even in the case of the siege coming to a bitter conclusion, we will not harm your wives or children. I do not want to fight a war of extermination against one of the wisest men in Japan and his extended family. That would be an utter waste for the whole of Japan.

I have an offer for you which you are free to accept when you want to end the conflict against us peacefully. I do not want to see the Kitabatake clan perish due to my actions and I want to offer you an alternative conclusion to the siege. You have proven yourself to to be a highly respectable clan, one which I would be proud to have as an vassal. Thus my offer is this: Become a vassal of mine and cede southern Ise to the Asai. In return you will continue ruling northern Ise, with Anotsu castle still under your control and the future of your clan still secured. I feel this a very merciful proposition and I hope you will eventually see the wisdom of accepting it.

Oda Nobunaga

[Ravie]

I agree with Oda... u have proven again and again what a great leader you are and you are respected by all of the Asai.

[Franconicus]

Asai and Oda, you have proven that you are unexperienced leaders and should try to become vassals of Kitabatake. :karate:

[CountArach]

Asai and Oda, you have proven that you are unexperienced leaders and should try to become vassals of Kitabatake. :karate:
Seconded. Motion passed.

[AggonyDuck]

I prefer to banter with the sword.

[Franconicus]

I prefer to banter with the sword.
The word is mightier than the sword, though :karate:

[darkragnar]

Miyoshi We have sent you messages and your replys are still fortcomming, we know it must be the fault of your messanges , i suggest you command them to commit seppuku at once.

The Time is drawing near, and we would like to get things moving with our decisions.

[IrishArmenian]

The word is mightier than the sword, though :karate:
Coming from the Clan that massacres peasants and whole villages?

[Kagemusha]

To Oda Nobunaga

Our answer is no.We will not submit to you as vassal. If you want our land. You have to claim it with your sword.

Kitabatake Harumoto

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

To Imagawa,

I sent my emssiares to you for a audience, I hope they get there well!


Yamanda

[CountArach]

To Imagawa,

I sent my emssiares to you for a audience, I hope they get there well!


Yamanda
He sent by emissary... :wink:

[AggonyDuck]

To Oda Nobunaga

Our answer is no.We will not submit to you as vassal. If you want our land. You have to claim it with your sword.

Kitabatake Harumoto

As I had expected. Oh well, my offer will still stand.

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

He sent by emissary... :wink:

yea, more or less I got bad spelling :yes: :laugh4:

[Kagemusha]

yea, more or less I got bad spelling :yes: :laugh4:

And your clan is Yamana.:smash:

[Kagemusha]

By the way guys. Would you prefer the deadlines to be during the weekdays or weekend? Or dont you have any preference on that issue? Im just asking, because i assume that some of you are not much online during weekends.

[darkragnar]

dosnt really matter to me.

Oh and classic name {BHC}KingWarman888, im sure Yamanda clan would be proud to have you as their leader of this all girls clan, now if onlyClan Betsy and Clan Suzzanna were as happy as the Yamanda's.

[Derfasciti]

To Chosokabe:

The honored alliance of the Christian clans of Otomo and Shimazu are currently discussing your proposals and hope to bring you a reply as soon as possible.



Shimazu Takahashi.


OOC: Just wanted you to know we've gotten your stuff and didn't forget about ya. :smiley2:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

dosnt really matter to me.

Oh and classic name {BHC}KingWarman888, im sure Yamanda clan would be proud to have you as their leader of this all girls clan, now if onlyClan Betsy and Clan Suzzanna were as happy as the Yamanda's.

{BHC}KingWarman888 Yamanda, of the Yamana clan! :laugh4:




Back on topic:


Imagawa, I am happy my emissary reach you. Thank you for the barrel of Saki also, it will be used well. :yes:

[Kagemusha]

The situation map in the first post has been updated.Thanks to Revolting Friendship!:2thumbsup:

[darkragnar]

{BHC}KingWarman888 Yamanda, of the Yamana clan! :laugh4:





Points to post #456 by kingwarman :laugh4:
https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1687765&postcount=456
:beam:

edit:
Kage , would you check ur PM, i have a new one sent to you.

[Kagemusha]

Points to post #456 by kingwarman :laugh4:
https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1687765&postcount=456
:beam:

edit:
Kage , would you check ur PM, i have a new one sent to you.

Hi m8! Did you just send it or are you talking about the one from yesterday? Because im positive i answered to that.:yes:

[CountArach]

By the way guys. Would you prefer the deadlines to be during the weekdays or weekend? Or dont you have any preference on that issue? Im just asking, because i assume that some of you are not much online during weekends.
I think Sundays or Saturday evenings are good. That way you get some of the weekend to write it.

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

Hey Kage,
you get my decsions ok?

[Kagemusha]

Yep.Yamana decisions came in ok. Im still lacking the majority of other clans decisions.

[CountArach]

Me?

[Kagemusha]

Yep.Asakura orders would be helpful.I should remind everybody that deadline is supposed to be today.:smash:

[Prince Cobra]

OOC: Since I am getting a bit busy, I will deal with the Interactive stuffs only on Wednesday and Friday. Do not feel ignored if I do not reply on time :shame: .

As for Saturday and Sunday: no problem! I will just send my decisions earlier!

[AggonyDuck]

I'm sorry but I've not sent my decisions in yet. I've been on a trip for the weekend and it seems like I have a fever. I'll try to get it done tonight, but it might take a while due to my sub-optimal state.

[Kagemusha]

I'm sorry but I've not sent my decisions in yet. I've been on a trip for the weekend and it seems like I have a fever. I'll try to get it done tonight, but it might take a while due to my sub-optimal state.

Take your time Duckie. It isnt so critical that you have to write them when you are sick.:yes:

[Tiberius of the Drake]

same condition of duckie

[AggonyDuck]

Decisions sent. :sweatdrop:

[darkragnar]

...did you get my PM ?

[Seign Thelas]

I think I sent my stuff...

[Tiberius of the Drake]

ughhh..orders sent. *gets ups to go take an asprin*

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

decsions sent Monday Morning (just a revised version in case Kage lost my first copy :yes: ), now just sit and wiat. I have to wait for 3 IH's,ahhhhh the excitement!! :wall:

[Franconicus]

Hey, no volunteer for Takeda? I need a new ally!! :karate:

[Kagemusha]

Hey, no volunteer for Takeda? I need a new ally!! :karate:

You just have to live with me, until there is one.~D I have now all the answers, so the next chapter should be out sometime this evening.

[Franconicus]

The allmighty gives pain and pleasure in abundance :bow:

[Kagemusha]

Oh crap. It seems that the Noble Asai clan has not yet given me their orders. Please hurry up Ravie. By the way, when you send your decisions please use this kind of form: Oda: Decisions for Autumn 1561. If i get just multiple re:situation.... pm´s its very hard work, to go through them all in order to find the players answers.:smash:

[Ravie]

oops i'd forgotten

just got my new comp and have been..... preoccupied ;)


will be with u by the end of today

[Kagemusha]

oops i'd forgotten

just got my new comp and have been..... preoccupied ;)


will be with u by the end of today

Thanks.:bow:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

Hurry my Dear Ravie! :yes:

[Tiberius of the Drake]

is there going to be an update soon?

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

is there going to be an update soon?


I guess tomarrow (Thursday) afternoon sometime I hope. I signed up for 4 IH's and not one results came back yet,so exciting! :yes: :laugh4:

[Kagemusha]

The chapter will be out this evening. I received the last decisions from Ravie yesterday.:yes:

[Revolting Friendship]

Great news, I've been waiting with much anticipation.

[Prince Cobra]

The time is coming... I feel it!

[Ravie]

Apologies again for making u all wait so long :)

[Kagemusha]

Chapter 7. Autumn 1561

https://img216.imageshack.us/img216/9822/imgautumn4lc9.jpg

While the country is in flames,the everlasting laws of nature cant be changed . Autumn follows the summer. Like man grows old after his prime and after old age the death embraces the nature, like it embraces every man eventually. But like Buddha in all his wisdom thought the people, after death rebirth will follow until the cycle is full and there is no more reason for either man or nature to exist. Autumn is the season when the nature dies, so it can be reborn in the spring. This will unfortunately happen prematurely to many men , women and children also on the islands Japan during this season of death. Harvests are cropped where it is possible, in other places the peasants are redying themselves to another winter of famine and death.

In the Island of Kyushu. The ruling council of Ryuzoji, who controls the clan on behalf of the underage Ryuzoji Masaie, decides to give in and submits to Otomo, whom with they have negotiated during the last few months. The terms are that Ryuzoji will retain their lands in Hizen, but becomes a vassal of Otomo Sorin, who has turned the disastrous situation of winter, into hegemony over Northern Kyushu for the Otomo clan.
Ryuzoji warriors obey their leaders and their armies, lower their weapons in Hizen and Chikugo. After receiving the news, Akizuki Tanezane is alone man. It seems that while he is able to resist the siege effort of combined army of Otomo and Shimazu trough out the season. With his failure to get Mori´s help, its like a cloud of death is hanging over his troubled head, as there is little hope for him or his clan.

In Chugoku. Mori Motonari continues building his grand fleet, he also buys cannons from the Nanban traders. Mori clan also starts military reforms that grant the title of Samurai and the rights belonging to the rank to the most deserving ashigarus in Mori army.

Mori clans neighbour, Amako, also purchases cannons from the portuguese while he continues sieging the capital of Urakami and prepares their troops for a winter siege.
Yamana Toyosada sends additional 1000 troops to support the siege of Tenjinyama and buys cannons from the Nanban, just like his neighbours.

In Shikoku, the flames of war has gone out and the population of island can harvest their crops this year. Chosokabe Motochika purchases a single cannon from the Portuguese and names it "Kunichika" after his late father.

In Kinai the war rages on. Miyoshi Chokei,orders some of his men to leave Shikoku and join the siege of Hatakeyma in Kwatchi. After the additional 3000 men has joined the spectacular army of now over 29000 Miyoshi warriors. On August 20th, high ranking Miyoshi samurai address the castle of Takeyama and its defenders, with a loud and clear speech:

"Defenders of Takeyama castle,

You fighted well. You did your duty to your Daimyo. Nothing more can be done. My master gives you a choice: surrender the castle and he will show mercy. Do not and this nightmare will continue. There is nothing honourable in eating your fellows and there is no honour in dying even in battle after you have eaten your fellows. Enough lives have been wastened because of your lord refusal to recognize the power of the Shogun Ashikaga. Enough honour have been damaged because of your lord refusal to recognize the power of the Shogun Ashikaga. Surrender and my master will show he is a real Kanrei, a man of honour. He will not humiliate your former master: my master will let him commit seppuku. These are the terms of the mighty Kanrei, the defender of the Shoguns Ashikaga!"

The answer is just ghostly silence. On the following morning, the starving defenders of the castle are assembled and Hatakeyama Takamasa address his men,mounted and wearing the age old family armor of Hatakeyama Clan.

" Men of the Hatakeyama. You heard what Miyoshi Kanrei´s lackey shouted at you. Surrender and the mighty Miyoshi Chokei will maybe spare you and your families, do it not and the nightmare will continue.
I say he is wrong, because the nightmare ends today. Today will be the final day, the final day for the proud Hatakeyama, because we will not submit, nor we will surrender. Today we will honour our ancestors, by washing the grounds around this castle with Miyoshi blood.
Who is this Miyoshi Chokei, who grants us mercy? I tell you men. He is nothing but an usurper, a retainer who betrayed his master, Hosokawa Harumoto. Only two years a go, this usurper captured the true Hosokawa Kanrei and now puppeteer´s the Shogun who we have always loyally served, with no less then four Kanrei´s for the Ashikaga Shoguns from our family, starting from Hatakeyma Motokuni who stepped in Ashikaga service as Kanrei in 14th century. Now this dog, who has been Kanrei for few days is offering us mercy?
I say damned be the mercy of Miyoshi Chokei! I Hatakeyma Takamasa, son of Hatakeyma Masakuni, descendant of the ancient Taira Clan, will not bend to upstarts like Miyoshi Chokei. I will attack out from this castle and fight until either i or this dog who calls himself Kanrei, is dead. Death embraces us all. its just matter of when and how!"

With a thunderous yell from the Hatakeyma samurai and Ashigaru, Takamasa rides out from the gate of Takeyma, draws the string of his Yumi and sends a deadly arrow to the throat of the nearest Miyoshi ashigaru outside the gate, who stands bewildered at the sight of the Hatakeyma Daimyo.
This signals a general assault out of the gates of Takeyama. Tired and starving from the long siege, the Hatakeyma bushi´s charge the Miyoshi lines like madmen. The first lines of Yumi and teppo ashigarus are swept away like leaves by autumn storm. Miyoshi Chokei sits on his camp stool on a nearside hill surrounded by the Miyoshi flags,looking below as the Hatakeyma storm his army. There isnt seemingly any kind of expression easily interpret on Kanreis face. He throws sonae after sonae of his men against the tide of Hatakeyma with signals to his sub commanders.
Hatakeyma Takamasa is everywhere, with his Yumi and Tachi sword. He pushes his men towards the command position of Miyoshi. Time after time he calls for Chokei to an duel with his yells and signals, but the Kanrei sits still, like if he wouldnt be concerned at all about his enemy´s calls. Finally as Takamasa is nearing Chokei´s position, Kanrei looks at the commander of his Hatamoto´s teppo troops and nods with determined look on his face. Few short shouted commands and as Takamasa hacks his way through the Miyoshi bushi´s, a teppo squad fire´s a full volley.
With several musket ball´s hitting Takamasa instantly, the proud Hatakeyma daimyo dies and drops from his horse disappearing to the crowd, with Miyoshi Chokeis name on his bloody lips.
The battle continues on, while Hatakeyma warriors fight even with more bravely, not to win, but to avenge their master.
After half of an hour, a bloodied hatamoto samurai of Takamasa arrives to the castle bearing news of his death, to the his wife. The noble lady Hatakeyma nods to the messenger and gathers the women of the clan and tells the grim news.
Outside of the walls of Takeyma, the sheer numbers of Miyoshi start to effect the battle. As one man dies,two others take his place. Step by step, the Hatakeyma force is pushed back. Inside the castle, the women of the clan, kill their children, after that themselves. Finally the castle guards, light the castle a blaze from inside. Creating a huge funeral pyre for the last Daimyo of the main Hatakeyma brach. Hatakeyma Takamasa.
After the battle is over, Chokei receives the casualty reports, which are grim. Over 15000 Miyoshi and virtually all Hatakeyma men lie dead on the field,or in the castle, which is burning with huge flames, for days untill there are only charred remains of the once mighty capital of Hatakeyama.
Other then the battle of Takeyma, Kanrei builds more ships in Settsu and buys an cannon from the Portuguese. The siege of capital continues, but for how long, is up to Tsutsui Junkei to determine in the new situation.

In Ise the siege of Anotsu continues. Asai Nagamasa departs with some of his men to his home province of Omi and leaves the rest under control of Oda Nobunaga. There are rumors about some Western warriors entering the siege force by ship.
In Omi, Shibata Katsuie is ordered to leave the province and march back to Owari. On late October, Katsuie move´s out again and marches to Ise to join the Oda army there.
Asakura Yoshikage sends army of 4000 men to Saito domain to bolster the defence of Mino, but doesnt engage Asai during the autumn.

On Tokaido coast, Tokugawa and Imagawa continue theri skirmishes. Tokugawa orders raids to Totomi, in order to avenge the previous raids to Mikawa and there are several skirmishes on both provinces, which disturb the harvest badly.

In Shinano, things are relatively calm. Takeda stays on defence at central Shinano, while Shingen dispatches an army under Yamamoto Kansuke to release pressure from the Hojo in Musashi. Takeda force numbering about 8500 men arrive in Musashi on early October and with Hojo Ujiasys troops, engage Satomi and Satake troops on several skirmishes that lead to casulties on both sides.

In Kozuke Date and Mogami army take´s an active stance at the start of autumn, skirmishing the Hojo force commanded by Hôjô Tsunashige, adopted brother of the Hojo Daimyo, Ujiyasu.
Tsunashige fights several small actions with the forces commanded by 73 year old veteran daimyo,Date Tanemune. Either side doesnt commit its full forces to the battles and nothing worth saying is accomplished by either side. Then on 14th of October, Tsunashige receives an grim report from his scouts.
Ashina Clan has joined the war. A force of 10000 Ashina warriors,lead by Ashina Moriuji. Is marching between the Hojo army and Numata castle. Tsunashige is engaged by the Date army already and can hardly withdraw without being attacked by Date.He barks after receiving the information.

"Damned Ujiyasu! I knew this would happen when my brother has left me here, unsupported. We cant retreat, we are being surrounded. Our only option is to brake our enemies plans."

With this sentiment, Tsunashige orders his army to attack positions. The forces are evenly matched and Date Tanemune orders his men to defend their ground as Hojo army launches their offensive.
Tsunashige opens up with his teppos and Yumis to soften the enemy and then orders his forces to close in, while he keeps his maunted samurais in reserve. The two lines clash and battle ensues. Hojo general decides to to order the weight of attack to the right wing of the enemy,where the Mogami are holding the line, while just faking an attack on center and left against the Date forces. The attack is gaining ground and Mogami is getting on serious trouble as Hojo starts to make a wedge between their and Date´s troops. Date Tanemune orders attack on his wing and Hojo has to deploy his mounted reserve to hold the line, while they are successfully pushing the Mogami on the right, to the point of nearly braking the allied army in two.
But then everything collapses. Out of breath from exhaustion a Hojo Tsukai Ban scout rides in to Tsunashiges commanding post.Kneels and reports.

"My Lord! Ashina flags to the rear!"

For a second Hojo Tsunashige remains silent, then he turns around,facing the Hojo heir, Hojo Ujimasa, who has been the second in command of the Hojo´s force in Kozuke and says.

"Nephew, take 5000 men from the right wing and march east, then make a large circle and turn South. Then march like Bishamon was after you and get those men to Musashi so we can win even somewhere! I will split 5000 and hold down Ashina, in order to buy time. Fujita Yasukuni! You will hold Date in place as long as possible, understood?"

Both men nod and Ujimasa looks to his uncle with great respect. Then each bow and depart to their own ways. Like Tsunashige planned, Ujimasa is able to move around the enemy with his 5000 men, while both Tsunashige and Fujita Yasukuni are ultimately surrounded by the enemy and both eventually surrender.
Ashina Moriuji decides to release Hojo Ujimasa,who bravely fought against his men and dispatches him to Hojo domain with a simple message to Hojo Ujiasy.

" Maybe next time you will listen, when we talk."

Hojo looses 10000 men in the battle as either dead, wounded or captured, while Date losses are about 3000 and Mogami about 2000, while Ashina losses are about 1000 men. Leaving Kozuke in the hands of Date and Ashina.

deadline for decisions for winter 1561-1562 is Thursday 11th of October.

I will send the info pm´s during next couple days.:smash:

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

Yay!! Very Intersting Indeed :yes:

[AggonyDuck]

An excellent chapter again Kage. :bow:

(and Warman would you please edit your post so you won't quote the whole chapter?)

[ELITEofWARMANGINGERYBREADMEN88]

An excellent chapter again Kage. :bow:

(and Warman would you please edit your post so you won't quote the whole chapter?)


I would If I could Edit Ducky, but when it saids you have 2 warings (which expired months ago), then I must asks the mods asap :yes:

[CountArach]

Another great chapter Kage!

[SwordsMaster]

Sorry about the lack of activity on my part. RL is really stressful. I will return to activity sometime soon.