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

[Maltz]

Standing on the top balcony of the Kasugayama Castle, Ashina Yaya and Maoko enjoy a fantastic view of the Seki river plain. The setting sun is now hidden behind the mountains. Yet it is still bright enough for them to see workers returning home from the water-filled rice field. They are here for the improved irrigation, which increases the productivity of Echigo's farms.

The meeting room of Kasugayama castle is located in the middle of the Tensho, where Nagao Kagetora lives. The meetings room features a few large shelves full of military history, strategies, and terrain maps. Kagetora is studying, with two large red candles burning on the side.

Yaya and Maoko watch from outside the window.

"A concentrated man has the most charm. And he indeed looks charming!"
Sparks jump out of Yaya's eyes.

"How about we chat with Kagetora for a while?"
"Just a second! Sister Maoko, is my make-up intact? How about my hairs?"
"You look good. Let's go now - Lord Kagetora sleeps early."
"Wait! What should I talk about to give him a good impression?"
"Er... I think he is studying military strategy. So why don't we talk about that?"
"But I know nothing about military strategy..."
"Don't worry, I will give you hints."



Nagao Kagetora (長尾景虎)

Born on February 18, 1530. The leader of the Nagao clan. He promised his master to become a clear stream in the Sengoku Jidai.

***

"Lord Kagetora! We have a rare guest in Kasugayama Castle. This is the daughter of Ashina clan's daimyo Ashina Morikiyo, Miss Ashina Yaya. She is also my fourth cousin."
"Nice to meet you, my lord. I am very sorry to interrupt your study."
"Oh, not at all. Please take a seat on the mat! I happen to encounter some obstacles in my study, and wish to gain some inspirations from discussing with someone."

The three sat by the table, which has a few maps of Japan laying on top.

"What is troubling Lord Kagetora?"
"Tomorrow I need to discuss with the clan officers about my vision of the clan in the future years. So I need to be prepared for it."
"Such an important study... May I serve you some tea?"
"How can I let a guest do that? And I will have trouble falling asleep if I drink tea after lunch. I have a few plans for the future in mind..."
"Yes. Let's talk about them."