Making a God of War (Uesugi: Legednary, Domination)

[Maltz]

(ten days later)
West of Hirai Castle, base of Uesugi Norimasa, the Kanto Kanrei (commander)

Nagao's 2000 men have arrived in Ueno and made a camp just outside the castle.
But Nagao Kagetora has not joined them.

"My lord... Lady Nomi, The Kanto Kanrei is here!"
"We don't have Kagetora yet. What should I do?..."

Nomi takes a look at the huge "Bi" banner behind her.
She takes a deep breath.



Uesugi Norimasa: "Nagao Kagetora? You are very famous in Ueno! It is a pleasure for the Uesugi to have your assistance. In this troubled time, we can rarely find any man like you. Man like you are... er... my..."

As Uesugi Norimasa sees Kagetora's face, he cannot finish his sentence.



Uesugi Norimasa (上杉憲政)

Borin in 1523. Leader of the Yamanouechi Uesugi of Ueno, he succeeds the Shogunate's "Kanto Kanrei" position.

In history, as Uesugi's influence diminishes under the threat of the rising Hojo clan, Uesugi Norimasa sought help from Nagao Kagetora of Echigo. Not long after, Uesugi Norimasa lost his land and had to seek shelter in Echigo. In 1559, in the hope of restoring the honor of the Uesugi clan and the Kanto Kanrei position, Norimasa passed his Uesugi name and the Shogunate rank to Nagao Kagetora, who took "Masa" from Norimasa to become Uesugi Masatora. This name was in use for 3 years, famously during the fourth battle of Kawanakajima (1561).

***

"Lord Norimasa, it is my honor to meet you."
"Nagao Kagetora is a lady?"
"Er..."

It is an awkward moment. Norimasa had imagined that Kagetora must be a "manly man".
No wonder people say Kagetora does not like woman.

Nomi cannot tell a lie for she follows Bishamonten.
She has to reveal the truth.

Nomi: "I am very sorry, Lord Norimasa. I am only a Kagemusha (shadow warrior) of Lord Kagetora. My name is Usami Nomi, daughter of Usami Sadamitsu, Lord of Biwa Island Castle. Lord Kagetora's wife gave birth in the morning when we started marching from Kasugayama Castle, so I took my lord's place for a few days. I believe that Lord Kagetora will arrive in Ueno shortly."

Norimasa: "Oh, I see! Actually you are doing very well, you do look like a Kagetora to me! Do you fight, too?"
Nomi: "Thank you... Yes, I do fight. I am the captain bodyguard for Lord Kagetora."
Norimasa: "Oh... good for you!"

Norimasa cannot help but imagine a team of beautiful ladies to be his bodyguards.

Note: Kagemusha was common in Sengoku just like stunt-double is today.

[Maltz]

Yaya: "Thank you for being with me... I have no other request of this life."
Kagetora: "I will forever put you in my heart..."

Kagetora and Yaya hug each other in tears.

Maoko: "Please, my lord. You are both very young compared to me. You still have many days ahead!"
Yaya: "Thank you, housekeeper. We have a healthy boy now! What should we name the boy?"
Kagetora: "Many things we have done are for peace. How about "for peace", Kamekazu? When he becomes an adult in the clan, we will put Kage into his name to become Kagekazu."
Yaya: "Good name! So what should we call him at home?"
Kagetora: "We can follow Umachiyo and call him Hitsuji(sheep)-chiyo, since he is born in the year of sheep."
Yaya: "It sounds weird, but very cute! Why not? Umachiyo, you have to love Hitsujichiyo, OK?"
Umachiyo: "Bababa..."

Umachiyo has turned one year old - he just learned to walk.

Maoko: "My lord, please leave Kasugayama Castle to us. The army is waiting for you."
Yaya: "When I get better, I might go to Ueno to look for you!"
Kagetora: "Sure!"

[Maltz]

Kagetora looks up - the strong wind is tearing the clouds apart.
Where are the enemies? It has been almost three months since 2000 Nagao's men came to Ueno.

Uesugi Norimasa: "What's Hojo doing? If you declare war, at least try to attack us..."
Kagetora: "Maybe they are... we just do not know it yet."
Norimasa: "I can't wait for the great battle! The joined forces of Nagao and Uesugi smash Hojo on the battlefield!"

The Kanto Kanrei pumps his fist in the air.

Nomi: "I remember that my father once suspect this is just a plot of Hojo Ujiyasu, the Lion of Sagami. We have to be more suspicious about Hojo's real intention. Maybe Nagao's army in Ueno is part of Hojo's plan."

Norimasa: "Yes, lady Kagetora is right! Hojo Ujiyasu is a cunning lion. We have to be careful."
Lady Kagetora: "My name is Nomi..."
Norimasa: "You look like a Kagetora more than a Nomi... "
Lady Kagetora: "So the Kanto Kanrei can force people to change their names?"
Norimasa: "Yeah... I can give my clan's "Nori" word as an honor. But Nori-mi is weird... Masa-mi sounds good!"
Masami:

Suddenly, a strong gust of wind blows the picnic plates away. Sands get into people's eyes and mouths! A thick branch falls off the tree!

"AAI-YO!" and the branch screams!

"Who is this?"
"An assassin?"
Nomi draws her katana at the assassin in black - only sees someone she recognizes.
The assassin quickly gets up and takes a very professional ninja posture.

"I am sorry! Ninja Naoaki reporting!"

[Maltz]

Ninja Naoaki (忍者直明)

The first pupil of Usami Sadamitsu's Echigo-style Ninjutsu. However, five years before his graduation, Naoaki was called up to the Nagao clan as a field agent. Naoaki is (supposedly) an expert of camouflage and costume-playing (i.e. cos-play), and is therefore extremely suitable for covert spying missions. Naoaki believes that his speciality perfectly matches Echigo-style Ninjutsu's spirit - he does not hurt his victim's body, damage his victim's feeling, steps on his victim's ego, nor he affects Nagao's reputation.

***

Kagetora: "Finally you are back! What do you know?"
Naoaki: "My lord, sorry to keep you waiting! I have travelled all across Kanto, Shinano, Hokuriku, and even the sea! I know everything! Please pick your questions!"
Norimasa: "Wait! You are a ninja? Maybe you know this... in spring, someone burned a large portion of our crops! I wonder who did such a terrible thing. Do you have any information?"
Naoaki: "Er... Lord Uesugi, I have an alibi."

Note: Naokai has to be trained whenever possible.

[HopAlongBunny]

I've been following this story from the beginning; I just recently went and checked out the videos.

Wow! the scenes and the music are great!!! The story has been excellent so far, but the videos add another dimension to the tale.

More please

[Maltz]

Thanks! Yes I must say the video is a lot of work. Each minute is 1-2 hours behind the scenes.

[Maltz]

(A) Listen to ninja's intelligence report (Paragon +5)
(B) Look at beautiful wife (Renegade +5) <--

***

Ninja Naoaki was just about to speak, but he notices that nobody is looking at him. Their eyes are fixed on someone in his back... Oh, it is Lord Kagetora's wife, a little toddler, and a baby in the arms.

In the end, Ashina Yaya and the babies did join Kagetora in Ueno, under the invitation of Uesugi Norimasa. Ueno is very safe thanks to the precense of Nagao's army.

Kagetora: "Yaya, this is Kanto Kanrei, Lord Uesugi Norimasa. This is my wife, daughter of the Ashina daimyo Ashina Morikiyo, Yaya."
Yaya: "Thank you so much for your hospitality. :pushups: Umachiyo, say hi to uncle Uesugi."

Umachiyo waves his hands.

"Good!"
Norimasa pats Umachiyo on his head.

Yaya: "It must be exciting to be a ninja! Can I hear Naoaki's stories, too?"
Norimasa: "Of course! Please start!"

***

(A) Listen to intel on Hokuriku.
(B) Listen to intel on Shinano.
(C) Listen to intel on Kai.
(D) Listen to intel on Kanto.
(E) Play all <--

***

Kagetora: "OK, let's talk about home first. What is Honganji doing in Hokuriku (the northern land)?"

Naoaki: "Certainly, my lord. I put on the custume of a travelling flute musician, you know, with a basket covering my face. I was in Noto and witnessed Ikko-Ikki's great army crush the mobs like a bug. And they put a bounty on master Rizenji Munechika!"

Norimasa: "Rizenji Munechika? I know this name! There was a famous debate in Noto three months ago! Munechika silenced the opponent from Honganji! I wish I was there!"
Yaya: "What happened to the monk from Honganji? Was he punished by torture?"
Naoaki: "Nope. He gave up on Ikko and opened a bookstore in the market."
Norimasa: "Market, temple, and sake den... the development trinity! It is normal to see staff leaving one only to join another, as the lords tend to demolish one before building another."
Yaya: "So was Munechika safe in Noto?"
Naoaki: "I helped her with a Geisha costume and sneak through the border to Kaga. Then I followed Munechika to Kaga, where she incited another mob's rebellion!"

Kagetora: " I don't think this is the right way to fight a war... by inciting rebellions in the darkness..."

Naoaki: "Don't worry, Lord Kagetora. All Munechika did was charity work. The mobs gather when there are freebies. Disorder rises when the mobs gather. The police arrive when disorder rises. People get beaten when police arrive. Then, riot happens when people get beaten."
Kagetora:
Norimasa: "Kagetora, you are really a righteous person! No wonder people call you the avatar of Bishamonten!"

Nomi notices that Yaya looks at Kagetora admiringly.
This is really disgusting.

Nomi: "So what is Munechika doing next? Maybe she can travel to Echizen and cause for major damage."
Naoaki: "I scouted ahead for Munechika. Unfortunately, there was a heavy garrison in Echizen. If the Honganji army came to Kaga, Munechika would return to Noto. She planned to delay Honganji's action by casuing unending rebellions in Hokuriku. Hopefully, this gives Lord Masakage enough time to restore Jinbo clan in Etchu."

Kagetora: "OK then. There seems to be no better way to delay Honganji. One day, we probably have to fight them."
Yaya: "Kagetora, you already did your best."
Naoaki: "Actually our trips in Hokuriku has made Munechika a household name there! This is a great thing for the spreading of Buddhism!"
Nomi: "Looks like that Masakage will be able to restore Jinbo in Etchu. Let's hope Jinbo regains its strength quickly..."

[Maltz]

Kagetora: "Speaking of Honganji - they seem to have a large navy. How is Echigo's navy doing?"
Naoaki: "Oh yes, Lord Kagetora asks the right question! I have seen two battles with my own eyes!"
Yaya: "You were on the ship?"
Naoaki: "Yes! I heng on to the flag pole and hid myself! So I had the best view of the battle!"
Norimasa: "Just a second! I go get some tea and snacks..."

Kagetora is a little worried about the Kanto Commander.
Uesugi Norimasa is a good friend to hang out with.
But he does not seem to carry the prestige to match the second highest Shogunate position.
Kagetora can't march an army to Ueno every time Uesugi is attacked.

Naoaki: "OK. Let's talk about the first battle. The Echigo Bune and the Honganji Bune had a duel on the water! But since Echigo's sailors have received rigorous balance training..."
Norimasa: "Balance training?"
Naoaki: "Yes. We built a large wave pool in the navy base. We nicknamed it 'The Pirate Den'".
Yaya: "I have heard of it! So there is no real pirate in the Pirate Den?"
Naokai: "Of course not. How could Lord Kagetora tolerate cooperation with Wako pirates?"
Kagetora: "Yeah, it is just a name to keep the teenagers interested in joining the navy."
Naoaki: "Anyway, our sailors are much more experienced on the water. As the two ships approached each other, the Echigo sailors released a defeanening war cry! BAAAAAAH! "
Norimasa: "WOW!"
Naoaki: "The enemies were stunned! The Echigo sailors grasped the opportunity and jumped onto the enemy's ship and started hacking and slashing!"
Yaya: "How powerful is the war cry?"
Naokai: "Oh you would not want to hear it! The enemies were scared enough that most of them dropped their katana! They get hacked down like strawmen - plus blood splash everywhere like the tomato sause we use in Pirate Den!"
Norimasa: "OH YEAH!"
Yaya: "How bloody!"

Naoaki is so excited that there are some foams coming out of his mouth.
Yaya and Uesugi Norimasa are his greatest fans.

Note: Not until much later (Chapter 46: Duel of the Untouchables) do I start using the debug camera to make screenshots and videos. In the meantime, the naval battles will have small ships and sailors from the normal camera. Sorry.

[Maltz]

Naoaki: "Then all of a sudden the wind changed, my view was completely blocked by Honganji's banner! So I leaped to Honganji's Bune, hiding myself on the horizontal beam! Dozens of sailors fighting for their lives right under my feet!"
Nomi: "Why didn't you help our men?"
Naoaki: "Er... I was in Ninja uniform. People tend to think a spy is always from the other side. "
Norimasa: "You are so brave, still! So what did you see?"
Yaya: "Umachiyo, cover your ears!"
Umachiyo: "Bababa..."

Naoaki: "Oh yes! I saw a samurai suddenly beheaded right under me! The blood rushes out from his neck like a fountain! PAAAAAH! And that head was flying toward me - it almost hit my head! I was sure the head saw me!"
Norimasa:
Yaya: "YEEEW!"

Kagetora: "That's very interesting. Naoaki, how about the next battle?"

[Maltz]

Naoaki: "Oh the second battle ended much more quickly. I found a better view - right in between of the two large "Bi" banner. Oh the scenary of the sea was breath-taking! But as soon as our sailors started firing and yelling, the chickens from Honganji gave up and surrender."

Yaya: "I really want to take a trip on the sea. Kagetora, can you bring me when you start your Kyushu campaign?"
Norimasa: "Eh? Kyushu campaign?"
Kagetora: " Yes. The Nagao clan aims to prosper through international trade. To do that we need to have a stand in Kyushu. Lord Norimasa, please understand this is our secret though..."
Norimasa: "Interesting. Good luck! I won't tell anyone."
Kagetora: "Thank you."

"How can she reveal clan's top secret just like that?" Nomi thought.
But strategy has no shelf space in Yaya's mind, just like jealousy holds a mansion in most women's heart.

[Maltz]

Naoaki: "Oh yes! There was another sea battle at the same time. A tiny half-broken Honganji ship tried to put a blockade on Honma's port on Sado island, but it was easily caught up and by our Bune. Unfortunately, Honma's port was still blocked off by Date's fleet."

Kagetora: "Ops. So that means our trade with Honma is..."
Nomi: "... losing koku. Where is Honma's navy?"
Naokai: "Probably blocking Date's port?"

[Maltz]

Chapter 17. A Plot to Exploit

Kagetora: "Looks like we do not have to be afraid of Honganji for now. How about Kanto? Did you find Hojo's army?"

Suddenly, Naoaki showed a very mean grin.

Naoaki: "Here is where things get interesting. I was under the pretendence of a rogue ronin, you know, just don't shave my beard for two weeks and fake some chest hairs growing out of my shirt. I travelled to Kanto, but did not see much of Hojo's army there. Definitely less than 2000."
Kagetora: "That's odd. Hojo definitely has more than that."
Norimasa: "Where did they go?"
Nomi: "Obviously, they have started an invasion - but they are not coming to Ueno."

Nomi recalls his father Sadamitsu's warning.
Maybe Hojo wanted Nagao to detect its intention to attack Ueno.
So now Nagao's 2000 men is parked in Ueno, doing nothing for the past three months.

Naoaki: "So I put on a different make-up... my favorite travelling merchant, carrying a big, but empty bag in my back, and sneaked into Shinano. Do you know what I found there?"
Nomi: "Hojo Ujiyasu's army?"
Naoaki: "Good one, lady Kagetora! "
Norimasa: "Hey, only the Kando Kanrei can change people's name!"
Nomi: "It is ok. What about Hojo's army?"
Naoaki: " I am very sorry. Hojo's army was on their way to North Shinano, which was controlled by the Kiso clan..."

"What? Isn't northern Shinano controlled by Takeda?"

Naoaki: "Takeda made a mistake and their smaller army was crushed. Now they are back to square one in Kai."
Nomi: "I thought Takeda Harunobu is better than that..."
Naoaki: "Well, people make mistakes. Takeda Harunobu is famous for attacking again and again. He is not famous for winning again and again."
Kagetora: "OK..."

Naoaki: "There was rumor that Takeda Harunobu was killed in battle. I will have to verify that myself later. Anyway, back to northern Shinano. Hojo Ujiyasu's army had about 2000 men, but they are not all in one place, as the bigger army rushed to defeat Kiso, which was very much weakened by Takeda. Maybe Kiso is smart enough to retreat? Maybe not. Anyway, I met Maoko the Housekeeper on her way to Kiso for some kind of military access deal. It is out of my understanding why Kiso would like to make sure Nagao does not attack them... "

Nomi: "I see. So Hojo Ujiyasu's plot is to draw Nagao to Ueno, so Hojo can take Shinano and attack Echigo while we are away..."
Norimasa: "Echigo is in danger!"
Yaya:
Kagetora: "Why does Hojo want to attack Echigo, though? If I were Hojo Ujiyasu, I wouldn't stretch my territory this thin."
Nomi: "Right. Hojo Ujiyasu is the 'Lion of Sagami' is famous for his steady and conservative strategies. This is unlikely. We have to look deeper into this..."

Although it is a hot summer day, the air mass seems to cool down rapidly when Kagetora and Nomi dig deep into Hojo Ujiyasu's plot. The fate of Kanto will be decided soon - by a plot to exploit another plot. In order to be a contemporary of "Tiger of Kai" Takeda Harunobu and "Lion of Sagami" Hojo Ujiyasu, Nagao Kagetora has to work really hard as well.

[Maltz]

(In the evening...)

Under candle light, Ninja Naoaki completed a strategic map of Shinano and surrounding regions.

Uesugi Norimasa: "Ok! Let's talk some strategies!"
Naoaki: "By early autumn, Hojo Ujiyasu would have taken northern Shinano and have probably 1000 men left after defeating Kiso. Another 700 reinforcement are on the way from southern Shinano."

Nomi: "The two armies will try to combine, obviously. The question is where is Hojo going next."
Kagetora: "If the Nagao army stays in Ueno, Hojo might invade Echigo. But if I were Hojo Ujiyasu, I would not prefer going further north. It is better to take Ueno, which connects to Hojo's other territory in Kanto."
Nomi: "AH! Now it is clear! Why didn't I realize this earlier?"
Norimasa: "What's clear?"

Nomi suddenly understands Hojo Ujiyasu's plot.

Nomi: "Hojo Ujiyasu wanted to attack Ueno from the very beginning. He did not march his army to Ueno because he wanted to avoid a head-on clash with Uesugi and Nagao's army. Hojo Ujiyasu did not have the confidence to win this battle."
Norimasa: "Yes! "

Nomi: "Hojo Ujiyasu then asked Takeda Harunobu to join his side. But Takeda Harunobu refused to send an army as it was already busy with three other wars. Harunobu sent an emissary to Kasugayama Castle and purposely gave us a hint that Hojo Ujiyasu would attack Ueno."
Norimasa: "With a friend like this..."
Kagetora: "Yes. That happened last winter."

Nomi: "After realizing Takeda Harunobu's unwillingness to help, Hojo Ujiyasu knew it would be impossible to directly attack Ueno. At this moment, Takeda Harunobu was unexpectedly defeated by Kiso in northern Shinano. Hojo Ujiyasu had a new plan. He secretly marched to northern Shinano through Takeda's Kai, where he easily defeated the already weakened Kiso."
Kagetora: "Yes. This is what happens now."

Nomi: "But Hojo's best scenario is to take Ueno. Ujiyasu only has to fake an invasion to Echigo. While Nagao's army retreat to defend their home, Hojo Ujiyasu would quickly attack Ueno along with its army in Kanto."
Kagetora: "Ah... makes sense!"
Norimasa: "Please don't leave me, Kagetora! But if you don't go, Echigo would be in danger."

Nomi: "I bet that we will hear rumors that Hojo's army has left north Shinano to attack Echigo."
Kagetora: "But it is just a rumor."
Nomi: "Indeed."

Nomi takes a deep breath and reveals a confident smile.
"There shall no return trip if Hojo Ujiyasu comes to Ueno!"
Norimasa: "The lady Kagetora is even more horrifying than a female tiger!"

[Maltz]

"Thank you."
Nomi nodded lightly.
She is a little tired of Uesugi Norimasa.

Norimasa: "But what are we going to do?"
Kagetora: "I think Nomi means we will set an ambush. There seems to be only one path between North Shinano and Ueno."
Kagetora points at ninja Naoaki's map - an obvious path connects North Shinano and Ueno.

Naoaki: "I cannot stop Ujiyasu is he decides to climb mountains..."
Nomi: "If Hojo Ujiyasu wants to sneak attack Ueno, he has to do it quickly. Naoaki, what does the terrain of this path look like?"
Naoaki: "Vallyes and trees. It is quite ideal for an ambush!"
Nomi: "Very good. If Hojo Ujiyasu is not careful, we might be able to defeat his two armies separately - with minimal loss."
Kagetora: "Then we can sign a peace treaty with Hojo and end this war."

Norimasa: "Why don't you take over Hojo's territory? It must be easy by then."
Kagetora: "Is that your order, Lord Norimasa?"
Norimasa: "Nope. Just a suggestion."
Kagetora: "Then please allow me to decline. Nagao has no reason to take over Hojo's territory. We just hope to bring peace to Kanto region."
Norimasa: "Wow Kagetora, you are really a nice person. If the warmongers and expansionists learn from you, the Sengoku Jidai would be immediately over."
Kagetora:

But then people like Kagetora would not stand out like a Japanese idol.
There is a popular saying: "Without the devils, nobody would believe in Buddha."

Naoaki: "So... my lord wishes to delay Hojo's reinforcement from the south?"
Nomi: "That would be the best. What can Naoaki do?"
Naoaki: " Oh, there are too many ways. For example, I can put on my weapon merchant costume... but I need several hundred koku to pull this off. "
Kagetora: "Sure. If this allows us to defeat Hojo's two armies separately, it is worth every koku."
Naoaki: "Yes! I will make it happen!"

Naoaki makes his confident ninja pose.

Nomi: "Good for you. You live up to my father's standard."
Naoaki: "You are not bad, too. You live to my master's standard."
Norimasa: "Wait, what's your relationship?"
Naoaki: "We are students under the same master."
Nomi: "We are urelated."
Kagetora: "They are both students of master Usami Sadamitsu. One specializes in military strategy and tactics; the other specializes in ninjutsu."
Norimasa: "Wow!"

Kagetora: "But... if we can defeat Ujiyasu's entire army in one battle, wouldn't this justify our cause even more?"
Nomi: "Kagetora, fighting a battle is not just about clash of the units - it is about clash of strategies, too. In the clash of strategies, we exploit our enemy's plot if there is a chance. Just like a soldier would attack an enemy's weakness if he can."
Kagetora: "I see. Let's do this!"

Kagetora used to hope that every enemy would fight with him face to face. If Kagetora wins, the enemy would yield and sign a peace treaty. But the reality is far more complicated.

Kagetora: "Let's spread rumors, too. Let's say Nagao Kagetora is leading 2200 men back to Echigo."
Naoaki: "That's not enough, my lord. We need witness and evidence. How about I help Lord Norimasa's army pretend to be Nagao's?"
Nomi: "In the meantime, the real Nagao army separate into hundreds of groups of merchants, farmers, monks... and the vallye's deep forest shall be our rendezvous."
Naoaki: "Exactly! I will prepare the costumes if Lord Norimasa helps me."
Norimasa: "Good! Good! Trust me to get the costumes!"
Kagetora: "The decisive battle is coming soon! We should start preparing as quickly as possible"
Norimasa: "Let this autumn be the last season for Hojo Ujiyasu! WAHAHAHA! WAHAHAHA! WAHAHAHA!"

Uesugi Norimasa laughs uncontrollably.

[Maltz]

September 11, 1547
Border of Ueno and Shinano

Kagetora got up early in this wet, cool autumn morning. White smoke come out from his mouth.
After a brief breakfast, Kagetora and his bodyguards climbed up a nearby hill.
The morning sun merge from the horizon. He can see Mount Fuji in the far south - the entire upper portion is covered in snow, reflecting the morning golden sun.

Kagetora looks at Usami Nomi, who has been his bodyguard captain for two years.
She used to be taller than Kagetora by half of a head. But now they are about the same height.
Nomi's cheeks appear quite red with the sunshine's hue. Kagetora can always tell confidence from her face.

Kagetora: "Nomi, if we defeat Hojo Ujiyasu today, what happens next?"
Nomi: "We can divide the army up. One press forward, defeat Hojo's reinforcement, and completely smash their invasion. The other takes North Shinano in the meantime, restoring Lord Murakami Yoshikiyo's power and fulfilling our promise to Murakami."

Kagetora: "Then we sign a peace treaty with Hojo, right?"
Nomi: "Unless Kagetora wants to become an aggressor? Then we march back to Ueno, and attack Sagami together with Lord Uesugi Norimasa. We can easily crush the remaining Hojo army."

Kagetora: "Hm..."
Nomi: "I thought Kagetora is reluctant to invade another clan?"

The morning fog of Shinano's valley looks just like the sea of cloud beneath Echigo's Kasuga mountain. On top of the sea there are small, colorful islands - hills populated with trees and their falling leaves.

Kagetora: "I am thinking about Kyushu. We set out a goal to expand toward Kyushu - isn't this an invasion as well? If I have decided to invade Kyushu, why do I refrain from invading Kanto?"

Nomi: "It is difficult to walk the righteous path, Kagetora. An invasion is an invasion, no matter what our excuse is. We will fall into hopeless hypocrisy and self-deception if we simply call Kyushu clans 'evil' and attack them in the name of righteousness. Maybe there is a sound solution to this when the time is right."

Kagetora: "Sure. For now, let's give Hojo a chance. If they initiate another war in the future, our army marches to Kanto."
Nomi: "Give them a chance? You are a very nice person, Kagetora."

Nomi rarely gives a sweet smile like she does now.
Her specialty in military strategy and tactics makes her the "female Kagetora" in Uesugi Norimasa's mouth. She is a perfect companion to discuss strategy and wars.
Yet, if she applies the same amount of make-up as Yaya does, Nomi could be very attractive as well.
Luckily, Kagetora is an oddity who has no desire in romantic relationship. This is also what Nomi hopes for, as she devotes her life to the way of Bishamonten, the God of War.
Perhaps, this is the only way that they can pour all their energy into strategies and tactics. Together, they complete the image of Bishamonten, like a bright rising sun in the morning sky.

Kagetora: "So that would be peace with Hojo. How about Takeda?"
Nomi: "If Takeda Harunobu indeed suffered a defeat in Shinano earlier this year, there must be very little army in Kai. This could be Takeda's weakest moment."
Kagetora: "So we do not have to worry about Takeda for a while."
Nomi: [color=darkred]"Harunobu's actions cannot be predicted using common sense. Maybe we can scout Kai with ninja..."

"Ninja reporting!"
And the ninja arrives as they speak of him!

"Ninja Naoaki reporting! Top urgency! My lord, please prepare for battle now!"

Kagetora sees Naoaki first as a little black dot leaping left and right.
But a ninja's speed is legendary. Before Naoaki finishes his line, the ninja is right in front of Kagetora.

"What's new?"
"Hojo's reinforcement is delayed. But Hojo Ujiyasu has marched overnight - they are only 6 miles west of here!"
"The battle is today!"

Kagetora can feel his heart pounding - what kind of opponent is the Lion of Sagami?

[Maltz]

As Nagao Kagetora hoped, "The Lion of Sagami" Hojo Ujiyasu marches toward Ueno.
They were ambushed by Nagao half-way, in the Shinano region called Ueda.
The battle that decides the fate of Kanto begins!

[Maltz]

Hojo Ujiyasu is only a few days from entering Ueno.
His army has been marching only in the night. The men are spread out in a long column.
As the sun comes out, it is almost the time for Hojo to make camp.

"Matsuda."
"Yes, my lord."

The one who answers is a senior clan officer in the clan, Matsuda Noriyoshi.

"Let's go for another 2 or 3 miles and call it the day. We have to wait for the reinforcement from Musashi to arrive anyway."
"Certainly."

As Matsuda ride to the front of the army to relay the message, Hojo Ujiyasu takes a good look of the landscape. There is not much to be seen at night.
They are in a deep valley surrounded by tall mountains. The morning fog is slowly climbing along the mountain. Is Hojo clan's future as promising as the rising morning sun?



Hojo Ujiyasu (北條氏康)

Born in 1515. The third leader of the Sagami Hojo clan, which is unrelated to the Hojo family of the Kamakura Shogunnate. Nicknamed "the Lion of Sagami", Hojo Ujiyasu possess extraordinary abilities in clan development, diplomacy, and military. Under the leadership of Ujiyasu, Hojo gradually became the most powerful clan in the Kanto region.

Historically, Hojo Ujiyasu's most famous battle was the Night Battle of Kawagoe Castle (河越城夜戰) in 1546, where Hojo Ujiyasu's surprise night sally of 10,000 strong routed the joint force of Ahikaga and Uesugi of 80,000. In 1554, Hojo Ujiyasu formed a famous three-way alliance with Takeda Harunobu and Imagawa Yoshimoto (which usually happens a lot earlier in the game). In addition, Hojo Ujiyasu's sons unite under the same banner, which is a rarity in Sengoku Jidai.

[Maltz]

An intense battle is about to happen. Nagao Kagetora must quickly figures out a plan.

Nomi: "Kagetora, the Hojo army has not detected us. We are in a good ambush situation - although not as perfect as four hours ago."
Kagetora: "Ambush? How about we divide up the army in two and hide in the forest? When Hojo Ujiyasu's army pass through, we attack them in the middle from both sides."

Kagetora has been studying ancient literature on military tactics. It is common knowledge that in an ambush situation, the first half of the enemy army should be let to pass. Attacking the middle usually kills the enemy taisho, and the rest of the army will rout easily.

Naoaki: "My lord, ambushing an marching army is good. But now it is close to Hojo's rest time. They are going to setup a camp, so we may end up attacking their camp by surprise. Most soldiers would be sleeping. This is great!"

Kagetora: "Oh... Hm..."
Kagetora is reluctant to attack somebody in their sleep.

Nomi: "Kagetora, if you wish to keep carrying the banner of Bishamonten, attacking people in their sleep won't help. If you sneak attack, you already admit that you cannot defeat them when they are awake. Bishamonten does not fear any enemy in any situation."

Naoaki: "But my lord, Hojo Ujiyasu pulled off this night attack on Uesugi in Musashi last year..."
Kagetora: [color=indigo]"That's probably why Lord Uesugi Norimasa dislikes Hojo this much. Thank you, Naoaki. But I prefer to defeat the enemy face to face."

Somehow, Kagetora just feels this is the right thing to do. Even though doing the right thing is not always the easiest option... or maybe it will be proven to be the best option only in the end.

Nomi: "I support Kagetora's decision. Fighting the enemy squarely does not mean we will simply charge everybody at them... that would be silly. We still use tactics."
Kagetora: "Nomi, does the Echigo-sytle Tactics cover ambush?"
Nomi: "Certainly. Pick your chapter: Yari Ambush, Bow Ambush, Cavalry Ambush, or All Ambush?"
Kagetora:

[Maltz]

Hojo Ujiyasu is a man of caution. Even if everything appears well, he does not let his guard down.

"Matsuda, by now, Nagao Kagetora must have returned to Echigo, right?"
"Yes, my lord. Our intelligence shows that Nagao's army has retreated from Ueno."
"Somehow, I feel things can go wrong..."
"My lord, please do not worry. Nobody can remain calm when their home is threatened. In fact, three out of four Sengoku Jidai's military campaigns were cancelled because their home was under the threat of attack."
"That probably explain why now so many daimyos attack their neighbors without protecting their home province - only to find themselves homeless..."
"Yes. As Nagao Kagetora returns to Echigo, Ueno goes to Hojo, too! My lord has accomplished much, while Nagao Kagetora none!"
"I am also worried about Takeda Harunobu. Shinano has been his goal for a long time. Rumors are that Takeda Harunobu has been badly injured and killed... but I don't believe it."
"I agree, my lord. We cannot trust Takeda Harunobu. One day, he will turn against Hojo."

While people temporarily think the "Tiger of Kai" Takeda Harunobu is no longer a contender of Sengoku Jidai, Hojo Ujiyasu does not believe it. For a great clan leader, any opportunity can be turned into a legendary come back.

[Maltz]

"Nomi, so this is the 'ambush of spears' mentioned in Echigo Style Tactics?"
"Yep. Let me recite a section. 'Let the bows be the bait, the yari be the trap. Whoever comes into the trap will be devoured, leaving corpses on the track.' This is called the 'Devourer' formation."
"Okay, so let's do this as planned! The bodyguards follow me! Can we trust you with the bow ashigaru, captain Kojima?"
"Yes! My lord, let me handle this!"

[Maltz]

At this moment, the morning fog covers the entire valley, including Hojo's marching army.
But it might cover other armies...

Matsuda Noriyoshi: "My lord. I heard that Nagao Kagetora is only 17 years old. My lord is almost twice as old as him. Kagetora cannot match my lord's wisdom."
Hojo Ujiyasu: "But I heard that Nagao Kagetora spent almost entire year to finally make the Jinbo clan surrender. I cannot imagine anybody doing that in Sengoku."
Noriyoshi: "But now Nagao Kagetora has fallen into our plot and retreated to Echigo."
Ujiyasu: "If I were him, I would first confirm the advance of Hojo's army with ninja."
Noriyoshi: "I see. But not every body has good quality agents like our Fuma (風魔, wind-demon) ninja."

Suddenly, Hojo Ujiyasu's heart beats fast. His hands start sweating.
Something is wrong; he can feel it.

Ujiyasu: "Matsuda, are there ninja activities in Echigo?"
Noriyoshi: "Oh... yes. There is an Echigo-style ninjutsu founded by Usami Sadamitsu, who have retired from clan businesses for several years. Rumor goes that he became crazy after a trip to Great Ming."
Ujiyasu: "Retired does not mean he is doing nothing. If he is the founder of Echigo ninjutsu, he could still train ninja, and maybe even more efficiently since he can focus on teaching."
Noriyoshi: "Certainly."
Ujiyasu: "Let's assume Nagao Kagetora has already acquired Echigo ninja. Could it be that Nagao's ninja has already infiltrated us?"
Noriyoshi: "Please do not worry, my lord. Echigo ninja learns little about assassination or sabotage, but costume playing. They just put on costumes and attend parties."
Ujiyasu: "If they are good at camouflage and costumes, maybe they were once very close to us..."
Noriyoshi: "Hm, that's possible."

Now Matsuda Noriyoshi also feels his heart beats.
Fear is about things that we do not know. The more uncertainty there is, the more fearful it is.

Ujiyasu: "Where is the current position of our reinforcement from Sagami?"
Noriyoshi: "Yesterday we received their report. They are about 8 miles south of Lake Suwa."
Ujiyasu: "8 miles?"
Noriyoshi: "Yes."
Ujiyasu: "But weren't they already there three days ago?"
Noriyoshi: "My lord, they reported that they need some time to get their weapons and armors ready. They would catch up quickly."
Ujiyasu: "Didn't Sagami equip them when they depart?"
Noriyoshi: "We were still hiring good blacksmith in Sagami. The report goes that they found a good weapon merchant, who offered very fair prize to upgrade their weapons. They have received some fine, free samples."

Hojo Ujiyasu holds his horse. It doesn't feel right.

Ujiyasu: "There aren't free weapons from a weapon merchant. Maybe the merchant is an Echigo ninja in disguise?"
Noriyoshi: "Oh? I don't think a ninja would receive much training in acting."
Ujiyasu: "You said they do not receive much training in assassination and sabotage..."
Noriyoshi: "Hm... the chance is low, my lord." "
Ujiyasu: "Why not? If a ninja has infiltrated us, he will slow us down as much as he can."
Noriyoshi: "But what for?"
Ujiyasu: "So... Nagao Kagetora could divide us up and conquer?"
Noriyoshi: "Attack us? Here?"

Ujiyasu does not answer. He listens to his men's marching, chirping birds, leaves and branches in the wind...
Could it be that they are already in a trap?

Ujiyasu: "Let's not go any further. Make camp in the forest head!"
The Hojo soldiers are happy about an early break. They are now hungry and tired.

Suddenly, loud noise comes from ahead!

"YOOOO~~"
"HAHAHA~~~"

"My lord, there is an ambush!"
"Find cover!"

Hojo's army cannot find a large cover nearby - only a small patch of trees!

[Maltz]

Bow Ashigaru Captain: "My lord, Hojo's army are in range! But half of them are hiding under the trees. Do we fire anyway?"
Kagetora: "Er... Captain Kojima, what do you suggest?"
Captain Kojima: "We can still shoot. But we can hardly do any damage."
Nomi: "Kagetora, the Echigo-style Tactics says... there is no time for recital. We cannot allow enemies who hide in the forest. We have to draw them out - quickly!"
Kagetora: "Ok... please lead the way! "
Nomi: "Follow me!"

Nomi has practiced horse riding since she was a toddler. As she draws the katana, the pack follows!

Kagetora: "Wait~~"

[Maltz]

"Hojo Ujiyasu, Nagao Kagetora has been waiting here!"
A loud voice comes down from a nearby hill!
Strangely it sounds more like a screaming woman.

Noriyoshi: "My lord! Look there! It is Nagao Kagetora!"
Ujiyasu: "Now I know why people say Nagao Kagetora does not like women... because he is not very masculine. All units, back off from the hill!"
Noriyoshi: "What should we do, my lord?"

"Hojo Ujiyasu, surrender now and live!"

Ujiyasu: "Darn. Kagetora sees all of our men, but I cannot see any of his..."

Hojo Ujiyasu is famous for his calmness.
He has to think rationally under this intence stress...

Ujiyasu: "We know Nagao Kagetora has 2000 men. We only have 1000 now. If I were Nagao Kagetora, I would use my numerical advantage to split my army into at least two, so I can flank Ujiyasu."
Noriyoshi: "Makes sense... so what should we do, my lord?"
Ujiyasu: "If we focus all our force and attack one of Nagao's split army, we might break it or force it to back off! Then we can make our way out!"
Noriyoshi: "Let's do that!"

Suddenly, Nagao's army appear right in front of Hojo!

"Nagao's Bow Ashigaru is here!"
"They are backing off!"

Ujiyasu: "Bow Ashigaru does not attack first in am ambush situation! This must be a glitch in Nagao's plan! This is Nagao's weakness! We attack!"

Ujiyasu's order instantly reaches his Yari Ashigaru! They charge after Nagao's bow ashigaru!

[Maltz]

Hojo's Yari Ashigaru: "CHARGE!"

[Maltz]

Hojo's Yari Ashigaru follows Nagao's Bow Ashiagru into the Devourer!
The formation closes up!

[Maltz]

Not knowing that their first units are being "devoured", more of Hojo's Yari Ashigaru charge ahead!

[Maltz]

Hojo's Yari Ashigaru are all trapped, only a few of them made it out through the gaps in theformation.

"Kagetora, let's go chase the fleeing enemies!"
"Er... how about Hojo Ujiyasu?"
"We cannot use the same trick three times. He is going to be much more cautious. We can use this time to take a little break."
"Ok then. Let's go!"

As Kagetora raises his katana, all bodyguards run down the fleeing ashigaru.

[Maltz]

Hojo Ujiyasu has lost all his Yari Ashigaru.
Yet he still has more than 100 Yari Samurai.

Ujiyasu: "So this is Nagao Kagetora's trick... instead of laying an ambush on both sides, he has lots of soldiers right in front of us. He anticipated what we anticipated. Very good..."

Hojo Ujiyasu gained this information at a cost of 300 lives.

Noriyoshi: "My lord, Nagao Kagetora is on the hill again!"

Hojo Ujiyasu looks up. Nagao Kagetora and his bodyguards are taking a good view of Hojo's army.

Noriyoshi: "My lord, Nagao Kagetora is not protected by his infantry. Together maybe we can get him!"
Ujiyasu: "That's probably what exactly Nagao Kagetora wants. There are lots of trees on the hill, it is easy to hide a few hundred men in there. I heard that Jinbo Nagamoto got killed by Nagao Kagetora because he foolishly chased Kagetora into a trap. Hold off any attack! We defend!"
Noriyoshi: "My lord has detected Nagao Kagetora's evil plan! We still have hope!"

Just as Hojo's army receives the order of stand-and-fight, there are noises coming from the front again...

Noriyoshi: "Nagao's Bow Ashigaru has returned! They are firing at us!"
Ujiyasu: "We won't be fooled again! Bow Ashigaru move forward!"

[Maltz]

Kagetora: "Nomi, Hojo's Bow Ashigaru is going to shoot at ours. What should we do?"
Nomi: "Nagao's Bow Ashigaru have received rigorous training with rubber bows. They can handle this."
Kagetora: "But I don't want them to risk their lives unecessarily..."
Nomi: "No, they don't have to engage in a shoot-out. Shoot-and-run is better."
Kagetora: "Shoot and run?"
Nomi: "Every heard of the Mongolians?"
Kagetora: "But our archers are on foot."
Nomi: "So? Can't they run?"

As Hojo's Bow Ashigaru march forward, Nagao has alraedy unleashed a volley!
They fell right on to the head of Yari Samurai and whoever happens to walk among them!

[Maltz]

"Fire back! Fire back!"
Hojo's Bow Ashigaru rush forward, but the Nagao attackers have backed off.

"Do we chase them?"
"No! We have the order to hold the ground! Return to your positions!"
"Yes, Sir!"

Hojo's Bow Ashigaru walks back to their positions, which is BEHIND their Yari Samurai.
Yet as Nagao's Bow Ashigaru adapts a thin, tight formation, they can fire exactly one volley at Hojo's Yari Samurai before Hojo's Bow Ashigaru arrive. When Hojo's men finally get into firing position, Nagao's men would have fallen back, and Hojo's men would return to their position, completing the cycle.

"Nagao's men returns!"
"Watch out! They are firing at us again!"
"WAAAAA~~~"