Chapter 2 Chapter Two

The secret meeting was held in Xiyuan Middle School.It was freezing cold outside, but the windows on all sides of the middle school were all open, and guards were lined up from the corridor to the front yard. In addition to Ieyasu Tokugawa of the Imperial Palace and Hidetada Tokugawa, General Tokugawa Hidetada, Masakazu Honda, Naoji Ando, ​​and Takaden Kinjiin who came with Ieyasu were also allowed to attend.Along with Shogun Hidetada were Honda Masanobu, Doi Toshikatsu, Sakai Tadashi, Mizuno Tadamoto, Inoue Masahyu and other important ministers.In addition, Yagyu Mataemon and Aoyama Tadatoshi were also present, but these two also served as guards.But the eldest Okubo Tadanechi, who was supposed to participate in this meeting, never showed up.

"Are you all here?" Ieyasu looked around the crowd unhappily, and urged Xiuzhong to speak, "First, please tell me the general purpose of this discussion." But Xiuzhong didn't seem to take the initiative to speak, he bowed respectfully to Jiakang, and said: "Since that's the case, I would like to ask my lord father to give me instructions first..." Before he finished speaking, Jiakang yelled angrily: "What's the point? I'm seventy-two years old as a father, so you just pretend that I'm no longer in this world." This scolding made everyone in the room terrified and held their breath.

"Don't dare." Xiuzhong replied in a low voice, and immediately turned his head to look at Doi Toshikatsu and said, "After the disposal of the Okubo Chang'an clan, the world seems to be unstable. First, the big cooker will introduce the trend of foreign religions." Doi Toshikatsu had been prepared for a long time, took a step forward, and said, "It is more appropriate for Okubo Sagami to explain this matter, but Sagami did not attend. Recently, Edo has been relatively stable. This is because the town follows the policy of Shimada soldiers. Shiro and the others have issued a stern warning to the relevant people of the Sodero Shiyaoyuan who have repeatedly held secret meetings. However, the situation above is still unclear. It is said that some daimyo who believe in foreign religions have come to Osaka to make secret contacts, and , and Takayama Nanbo in Kaga are also frequent. Therefore, I have asked Kaga-sama to strictly monitor."

"How is the movement in Osaka Castle? Is there any new news?" Ieyasu asked. "Return to the Lord: Paul, Torres and other priests often come and go in and out of the city, and have frequent meetings with Hayami Kaishu, Watanabe Naizosuke and others, and stay in Ono Jichang and Oda Yuraku under the guise that Akashi Sobe also participated in the lectures. Zhai and other places have frequently sent secret envoys to Nanfang in Kaga..." Ieyasu patted Fu'er and interrupted him: "I don't have any opinion on Okubo's words. It doesn't matter. What I care about is why Okubo Sagami didn't show up, and why is he wronged? I think you guys know something, right?" The room was completely different from Ieyasu's usual appearance.

"About Okubo Sagami Mori..." Tadyo Sakai interjected, "About Sagami Mori, I heard that he was extremely depressed due to the death of old friends in recent years, and when he was about to retire, he lost his eldest son. He became more and more fatigued, and his health was not as good as before, and it is said that he is currently bedridden." Jia Kang squinted at Zhong Shidao: "Is that all? Has any of you visited?" His voice was very stern. Masanobu Honda, who had been sitting quietly with his eyes squinted, raised his hand and said, "Today is an unusual discussion: about Okubo Sagami, let me tell you about it. In fact, Sagami is extremely unwilling to sit with my father and son today. I'm hiding at home right now." After speaking firmly, he looked at Ieyasu with faith.

Jiakang was slightly startled and said, "You think Jiakang doesn't even know these things? But why Zhong Neighbor is angry, I want you to talk about it." "It's a long story. From the early years, Sagami Shou and Masanobu couldn't get along. He has a straightforward personality, but the old man once escaped during the Ichiko sect riot. He is a rare shameless person. It is such a shameless person like me who is now with my son. Uenosuke has always been by the side of the general and the Imperial Palace, meddling in the affairs of the world. He can't tolerate the arrogance of the old man, this is what he said himself."

Ieyasu closed his eyes.He was very clear about the difference in their personalities.The eyes have the function of the eyes, the nose has the function of the nose, and each performs its duties.But both parties are over 70 years old, but still can't reconcile, it's really sad! "Actually, Masanobu was also deeply ashamed of this matter, and tried hard to untangle him, but he was unsuccessful, so that what happened today. Recently, the thing that made him most angry was his anger towards Okubo. The disposal of the survivors of Chang'an. He must be thinking in his heart, if Chang'an cheats for personal gain, of course he will be punished, but why did he make a decision without discussing with him? The boss is not puzzled by this kind of angry mind. The master of the Imperial Palace summoned him to come Come on, I'm afraid he won't push back. Of course, he is really sad. Just as Mr. Sakai said just now, at the juncture when he made up his mind to live in seclusion, the eldest son left him first, which made him physically and mentally exhausted .”

"Have you said this to Zhong Neighbor?" "I've said it...ah, I didn't say it personally. I need to ask him to forgive me for this matter, so I asked Mr. Mizuno Tadamoto to help me. But when he heard that it was the old man's message, he used the excuse of being ill No interview. Is that so, Mizuno-sama?" Zhongyuan nodded. "Hey! Now that's the case, loyal neighbors... There is no reason for Sagami not to show his face. Now, Ieyasu will tell everyone why the current situation is unstable. If there is any bias, please tell me clearly, don't want it. Restrain." Ieyasu's tone was still as majestic as a whip.

The full house was silent.Everyone felt that the murderous aura that had not been seen for a long time, which was only seen during the battle and discussion, emanated from Ieyasu again. "The biggest reason for this instability is that some people have forgotten the hard-won peace of the world." As he spoke, Ieyasu carefully inspected the audience one by one. Here. In fact, there are many people who forget the hard-won peace and become paralyzed." "I'm really ashamed." Zhengxin interjected. "I don't care about those who don't know the cruelty of war. What I want to talk about is those who have experienced the Sekigahara War. During our lifetime, we must tell the world about the cruelty of the troubled times. As you all know, the ones who are most likely to neglect this, Who is it?"

"Ah!" Xiuzhong was the first to shiver in surprise.Then, Zhengxin also lowered his head, "Ashamed!" "Don't interrupt!" "yes!" "The biggest mistake is Tokugawa Ieyasu. Ieyasu inherited the behest of Zongjian Gong and Taige, and finally realized the long-cherished wish of world peace, but he was content with Xiaocheng and neglected the teaching of You Fu and Shang Zongsuke... It is these negligence that led to Chang'an's arrogance and the conspiracy of foreign believers." Only Yagyu Mataemon, who was sitting at the last seat, showed a smile on his face.Ieyasu's criticism of himself is the pinnacle of Shi Zhouzhai's art of war: If a person has no flaws, no kind of conspiracy or sorcery can succeed. Therefore, the so-called belief in victory comes from this kind of self-confidence—"If you find out If I have an opening, just come up and try!" It seemed that Ieyasu had regained his former pride.

"I entrusted Zhonghui's full authority to Chang'an, but this kind of pampering harmed Zhonghui. Similarly, I handed Youle, Katagiri, Xiaoide and others over to Youle, Katagiri, Xiaoide and others. If they can be firm, They all have the idea of ​​"maintaining peace in the world, who else can I give up", so foreign believers will not have the opportunity to launch a conspiracy. Zhengxin may also know that when I was dormant in Sanhe, the reason why I was able to suppress the riots of Yixiangzong was that So. Their beliefs and mine, who is true? In this kind of self-confidence competition, I finally overwhelmed them. This time it was just the opposite, and we were caught by surprise. Zhonghui fell with Changan , You Mansion has been reduced to a decoration of the city of women. Listen, it is strange that the world is still in chaos at this level! Therefore, it is Tokugawa Ieyasu's fault." After speaking, Ieyasu's eyes turned red. What did Ieyasu want to say?Xiuzhong, Zhengxin and Zhengchun all looked at each other inexplicably.They thought that Ieyasu would vent all their dissatisfaction on them, but he broke down in tears and blamed himself first. Doi Lisheng tremblingly said: "My lord said that, I feel ashamed. This is not the negligence of the Imperial Palace, but the negligence of our subordinates." Ieyasu looked at the crowd slowly again.His face was filled with a majestic, incomprehensible grief.No one knows whether he is angry or introspective, or is he deliberately taking his own right and wrong first in order to reprimand others? "Oh? Li Sheng, you think so?" "Yes. I'm really ashamed." "If you think so, it's useless no matter how many times I babble. The fire is already on. What do you say, General?" "yes." "Then, how to put out the fire? Where to start? How to minimize the damage? Of course, everyone must have their own views on this issue. Let's start with the elder Sado Mamoru." "Forgive me for taking the liberty." Honda Masanobu only really gained insight into Ieyasu's heart at this time.Ieyasu suppressed his anger and blamed himself in front of everyone, all because he had seen through everyone present. "Zhengxin believes that we should start with the suppression of arrogant foreign believers. It is best to start from three places: one is the land of Ou, and it can be completely handed over to Date Mutsu. Signs were erected everywhere in front of the main entrance to encourage foreign religions. Of course, this is an ulterior move." "Anti-chess?" Ieyasu asked with his eyes closed. "Yes. He is already aware of his disadvantages, and he wants to show his loyalty to the general. In other words, he is implying that believers, if their intentions are wrong, they can safely fall into his arms, and he will support them .When he took it all down, things calmed down, that's how it must be." Hearing Zhengxin's unexpected speech, the audience was in an uproar.Neither Sakai Tadayo, Mizuno Tadamoto, or Aoyama Tadatoshi are so optimistic about Date.Not only that, they even had doubts: Isn't Date Masamune the one who instigated Okubo Chang'an and encouraged Zhonghui?But because Ieyasu was squinting his eyes and listening intently, no one dared to interrupt. "After the land of Ou Yu is completely handed over to Mutsu Shou, from Kanto to Shin-Etsu and Tokai, Edo is enough to control, and there will be no chaos. The most important thing is the upper part. Ordinary people are not competent to calm the riots in the upper part, because Xiu There are quite a few believers on Rai's side who are helping to make suggestions. Therefore, if the person who can suppress the riot in one fell swoop lacks enough weight and strength, it must be absolutely impossible. From this point of view, the person who can suppress the riot must be Okubo Saga belong!" Those words left everyone present gasping for breath in astonishment. Behind the Okubo Chang'an incident, the struggle between Okubo Tadao and Honda Masanobu's father and son has become entangled, but the name of Takane suddenly popped out of Masanobu's mouth, how can everyone not be surprised?However, Ieyasu was also silent at this time.In this way, no one dares to intervene. "This old man actually recommended Okubo Sagami, and many people may be puzzled. In fact, Shoshin has also criticized Sagami's recent actions, but private affairs and business affairs must not be confused. Go to the top to question those believers who intend to make trouble and The daimyo, and let the right minister Hideyori hand over all the priests and missionaries under his protection, as well as the ronin who tried to take the opportunity to cause trouble, and cut off the root of the disaster. The one who can take on this important task is none other than Sagami Mori!" Having said that, Honda Masanobu quickly glanced at Xiuzhong.But seeing Xiuzhong sitting quietly like a Taoist. "Perhaps, there will be some self-righteous scholars in the world who spread rumors that Honda Masanobu drove his opponent into a trap again, but such evil words are not to be feared. Sagami, like Date Mutsu, is regarded as a foreign religion by the world Believers, because of this, they will be more convincing when they come forward in person. Moreover, in order to eliminate the doubts that the world had about him before, Sagami will go all out. Therefore, whether it is a good thing or not, it is a good thing In this way, first control the fire, and then slowly discuss the aftermath, what do you think?" But Ieyasu still closed his eyes and pondered, and said after a while: "Sado Mamoru-sama's meaning is clear, what does Sakai Tadyo think?" "I'm afraid it's difficult for me to agree." Ieyasu asked this suddenly, but Tadashi expressed his attitude clearly, "According to Date's temperament...Leaving aside these things, I cannot agree to sending Okubo Sagami to the top." "Oh?" "Even if it is not arranged in this way, Sagami Mamoru once said indignantly that he is completely a display. Letting such a self-defeating person appease the believers above, as Sado-sama said, this may be interpreted as a mocking order. So As a result, Sagami's suspicion will deepen. Sending someone who I don't trust is tantamount to adding fuel to the fire. Therefore, I think it is better to send Date Mutsu." "Massunu, what do you think?" At this moment, Ieyasu opened his eyes and stared at Masanobu's son with a knife-like gaze. "I'm sorry to say it bluntly, but I will compromise." "Compromise? Don't be restrained, just say it clearly." "The person who misled Okubo Sagami, needless to say, the culprit is Okubo Chang'an. In addition, there are some people involved. Since Chang'an has gone, Sagami should be sent to the It is the best policy to go to the top and think to the bottom.” "There are some people involved with Okubo Chang'an? Who are you referring to?" Ieyasu asked puzzled, as if he was a little puzzled. "Shinano Matsumoto Castle lord Ishikawa Yasunaga, Chikuma Domain lord Ishikawa Yasunaga." As he spoke, Masamune took out the copy of the previous joint signature letter from his bosom, and spread it out in front of Ieyasu, "My lord, please take a look. After the signatures of He Changan, Ishikawa Yasunaga, Ishikawa Yasunaga, as well as Uwajima's castle lord Tomita Nobudaka and Hyuga Nobeoka castle lord Takahashi Yuanzhong are also in sight." With a sullen face, Ieyasu looked away from the joint signature letter.Brother Ishikawa Yasunaga is the son of Ishikawa Suzumasa.Shuzheng has been in the Toyotomi family for many years, but secretly worked for Tokugawa, Ieyasu knew it well. "You still carry something like that?" "Yes. This joint letter can be used as a reference from time to time. The people who signed it are all the people closest to Chang'an, and they are all enthusiastic foreign believers in private." "So, we should punish them first?" "Exactly. Among them, there is the son of Ishikawa Hoki, who abandoned Tokugawa and defected to the Toyotomi family, and lost face to the Mikawa samurai. Also, Tomita is in Shikoku, and Takahashi is in Kyushu. They are also going to join Chang'an's smuggling The deal, therefore, first confiscate their fief, and then send Sagami Shou to the top." Ieyasu was speechless, staring at Zhengchun—how shocking is the sharpness of this son!For Zhengchun, Okubo Chang'an is definitely a conspirator, and Okubo Zhonglin is a good person who was used by Chang'an.For him, since the survivors of Chang'an had been executed, for Tokugawa's safety, those who were close to Chang'an must be cut off resolutely. "So...So, Uenosuke-sama, what do you mean, by punishing the people around Zhongneighbor, to prompt him to reflect on his inappropriateness and faults, and then send him to the top?" "That's right. Otherwise, Sagami would be wandering around to vent his dissatisfaction and grievances when he was guarding the top. Anyway, he is also quite old. If he talks nonsense everywhere, he may disturb the world and bring trouble to the Okubo clan. Bring disaster. As we all know, the relationship between Sagami Mamoru and the Ishikawa clan is also very close." Having said this, Zhengchun suddenly closed his mouth.There was no need for him to say these things, as Ieyasu knew it very well. Ieyasu groaned softly and closed his eyes again.It is true that Okubo Tadone and Ishikawa have been in close contact since the time of Ieyasu's grandfather, and they are like the same family.Zhong Neighbor's wife is the granddaughter of the Ishikawa family, counting as a number of positive cousins, and now Zhong Zong, the heir of the head of the Ishikawa clan, Ishikawa Yasutsu, is actually the second son of Okubo Tad Neighbor.Based on this, Zheng Juncai proposed to severely punish Ishikawa Susho's family, and then send Okubo Tadao to the top. Perhaps in the eyes of some people, since Honda Uenosuke Masazumi punished even the bereaved family of Chang'an, and now put forward such a proposal, the purpose may be to get rid of his political opponent Okubo Tadao in one fell swoop.For this reason, instead of directly dealing with the descendants of the Ishikawa family who adopted the second son of the loyal neighbor, it is better to get rid of the son of Ishikawa Shumasa, because everyone believes that he has betrayed the master's family and defected to the Taiko, and even those stubborn generals are still in private. He chattered endlessly: "The disgrace of the Mikawa samurai is the betrayal of Ishikawa Hokimori. As long as he gets rid of him, all the pedigrees will be loyal..." Whenever I heard such comments, Ieyasu felt a pain in his throat.Ieyasu had acquiesced in Ieyasu's running away, but until now, he couldn't say it out loud.And right now, it is also a fact that Ishikawa Yasunaga and Kang Sheng have a deep relationship with the late Changan.As Zhengchun said, the names of Kang Chang and Kang Sheng were clearly signed on that headache-inducing joint letter. "Samamori Sagami is getting old, so it is necessary to take such measures, otherwise, he is very likely to vent his dissatisfaction and complaints at the top?" Ieyasu asked. "Yes. But only after confiscating the fiefdoms of the Ishikawa brothers, Tomita, Takahashi and others, can Sagami Shou be sent to the top. Only in this way, Sagami Shou will get nervous and do things seriously." Ieyasu couldn't help shivering.Zhengchun's words are not bad at all, but behind that chilling edge, could there be something hidden?What does the general think?Ieyasu was worried about this.He has experienced all his life, and it is not difficult to make a decision.But once Xiuzhong fails to understand his decision, the seeds of disaster will surely be planted. "Okay, Master Uenosuke's meaning is clear. Does anyone have any ideas?" As soon as Ieyasu finished speaking, Sakai Tadashi said, "I don't think Sagami Mamoru is appropriate." "But..." At this moment, Zhengchun's father, Masanobu, interjected meaningfully, "In this case, we have to consider the punishment for Sagami." On this occasion, this remark was tantamount to a fatal blow, and its sharpness completely surpassed that of his son Zhengchun. Naoji Ando let out a cry of astonishment, and hurriedly shut his mouth.The nearest loyal neighbor even neglected the general a little bit.Therefore, whether to let it go or not is actually a major matter related to the majesty and dignity of the shogunate. Ieyasu asked again: "Who will tell?" This time, no one spoke.Although many people sympathized with Okubo Tadao, but because of his own way, no one can speak for him. "Okay. Everyone has said everything they need to say about Zhongnei." Ieyasu looked at General Hidetada, who had been trying to control his emotions, "Ieyasu Tokugawa, who is dying, can't interrupt anymore, so let's listen to the general's judgment. Regarding the general's Judgment, I'm afraid no one will object, huh?" It was dark all around.Yagyu Mataemon stood up gently, lit a candle, and quietly retreated to the last seat. At this time, someone shouted: "Forgive me for taking the liberty, I have something to say!" It's Naoji Ando.Seeing that Ieyasu was already urging the general to make a decision, he finally couldn't help shouting out.He had been hesitating whether to speak or not. "Zaoji, if you have something to say, hurry up and say it, there is nothing to worry about." "Please forgive me for taking the liberty." Naoji bowed respectfully to Ieyasu again, and said, "Your opinions are indeed reasonable, but I think that the previous topic deviated from the key point. I wonder if you have noticed?" "Deviated from the main topic?" Ieyasu pretended to be surprised. "Exactly." "The tone is not small. Let's listen to it." "Naoji has no objection to Mr. Honda's proposal to send Okubo Sagami to the top, but it cannot be resolved by sending someone casually. If Sagami is sent there, the commotion shows no signs of subsiding. By then How to deal with the situation? Before considering who to send, we must first think about it." Everyone in the room was stunned, this is indeed the key point that must be considered.But, not knowing what Jiakang was thinking, he suddenly slapped Fu'er and shouted angrily, "Zhiji shut up!" "yes." "Do you think that if you don't say this, the general won't think of it?" "I'm confused." "The general will repeatedly weigh all the affairs in the world, and after determining which is more important, he will make his own decision. Now we are only talking about who to send to the top." Ieyasu gave a rough reprimand, and then turned to Hidetada: "Please make a decision, general. " Xiuzhong no longer flinched.He had already discussed with Zhengxin, and he had already made a decision in his heart.Of course, there are two considerations in this: if the loyal neighbor completes the task with all his might, then the credit can be offset; if he still vents his dissatisfaction everywhere, he has no choice but to deal with him painfully, as an example to others. "Then, the envoy sent to the top will be Okubo Sagami." After finishing speaking, Hidetada turned to Ieyasu, "Father, if you have any reminders about this, please enlighten me." Ieyasu frowned sadly, but he still tried his best to control his emotions, and said: "Then, this matter is settled like this, and the person sent to the top will be Okubo Sagami... If Sagami can't quell the commotion , How to deal with it? Naoji will talk about it first." First give Zhiji a slap in the face to shut him up, but now he comes to tease him again, Jiakang is happy to do so.He said again: "Zhici, you don't have to be polite this time. Judging from your tone just now, you are already confident." Naoji was clearly confused.In his opinion, even if Okubo Tadao was sent to the top, the Keiban riots would not subside.He is not the only one who thinks this way, in fact, he also knows it in his heart, the one who knows this most is Honda Zhengshin and his son.But in this way, loyal neighbors will inevitably take the blame and retire.The end of the old family is really sad, so Naoji objected.But his speech was blocked by Ieyasu, and it was a conclusion that he sent his loyal neighbor to the top.Now that he has decided, what else can he say but obey? "Naoji, why don't you speak? Aren't you a loyal neighbor of the opposition?" Naoji remained silent.Now that he has been seen through by Ieyasu, he has nothing to say. "Zaoji!" Ieyasu's voice became sharper, "I said just now that you must not object to the general's judgment, did you hear that?" "yes." "Even Tokugawa Ieyasu has obeyed, so what's the use of your opposition? The matter of sending Okubo Tadao to the top has been decided. What is being discussed now is how to deal with Tadao if he fails?" Naoji couldn't help feeling angry.If the matter has reached this point and remains silent, it is the act of a coward! "Since the decision has been made, I have nothing to say. But Naoji still believes that with Okubo Sagami's ability, it is absolutely impossible to calm the matter!" "So, what do you think is the way to calm things down?" "Forgive me to speak bluntly, the right minister, Toyotomi Hideyori, must be invited out of Osaka Castle, otherwise, the riots will never subside. However, the adults seem to have forgotten this, which really surprises Naoji." Hearing what Naoji said, the audience was slightly shocked.Yagyu Mataemon, who was at the last seat, let out a sigh of relief.Somebody was bound to jump in and say that at some point, and he'd been waiting for that moment from the start—and he wasn't the only one in the room thinking that way. If Hideyori is transferred, the believers who are gathering and those wanderers with bad intentions will lose the foundation of their ambitions and have to scatter like birds and beasts.It was not Hideyori that gave birth to their ambitions, but Osaka Castle!Hideyori has no ambition at all. "Oh? So, you mean to negotiate with Hideyori directly and let him hand over Osaka Castle? If you don't have such eloquent people, it would be meaningless to send them, right?" "Exactly." "Then, I would like to ask, do you think there is such a person? If so, you can go on behalf of Zhonglin. Who do you think is suitable to be this envoy?" This was a difficult problem that Zhiji had never expected, but he had no way out, and said, "Uesugi's Naoe Mountain Castle, or Sanada Masayuki..." Before the words were finished, Ieyasu retorted, "You bastard! Changxing died a long time ago." Zhici was taken aback, how could he name these two people?As soon as he thought of this, Ieyasu explained to him in a reproachful tone: "You think Naoe Yamashiro and Sanada Masayuki are the ones who can challenge Ieyasu, right?" "yes." "Even if you think this way, Hideyori's mother and son will certainly think so too. Send such a person to tell us clearly that if you want to use the sword, Osaka will only lose once, so Hideyori will obediently give up the city. Do you want the envoy to negotiate like this?" "yes." "When did you become so reckless? You don't know that Naoeyama Castle Guard is the elder of the Uesugi family who shot an arrow at me during the Sekigahara War. Hmph, to be precise, it was he who conspired with Ishida Osamu to provoke that Qiangu A battle." "Therefore, if you send him to..." "Shut up!" Ieyasu reprimanded again, "If you don't discuss with Yamashiro, Changxing and others, the matter cannot be resolved. If the special forces leave such an impression on the world, even if Hideyori leaves the city obediently, what will happen to the world in the future?" How to deal with it? Once you are despised by the world, the world will really be in chaos in the future. I don’t think you don’t understand the truth.” Naoji's face became extremely pale.Hearing what Ieyasu said, he finally understood what he was thinking.As Ieyasu said, he has always believed that the most powerful opponent on the battlefield is either Uesugi's army led by Naoe Yamashiro, or the army under Sanada Masayuki and his son.Because he kept thinking this way in his heart, he said it inadvertently.But even if Ieyasu didn't remind him, he also knew that the issues entangled with factional disputes within Tokugawa this time could not be casually leaked to foreign daimyos. "I am ashamed." "It's good to understand. Besides, I heard that Changxing passed away a long time ago. In this case, your proposal is meaningless. Okay, let's listen to Lisheng's opinion." Ieyasu directly shifted his gaze to Doi Toshikatsu . Li Sheng gave a slow salute, "This is definitely not an ordinary thing. If Okubo Sagami can't solve it... Even Okubo Sagami can't suppress it. If you think about it like this, the riot will turn into a world chaos." "You don't need to repeat these, I'm asking for your opinion." "Forgive me, Li Sheng has no opinion." "No opinion? How can you assist the general like this?" "No matter what the lord says, if there is nothing in the belly but insists that there is something, that is disloyalty. Obedience to the decision of the lord and the general, and doing the best for it, is the way of a foolish minister." This big cooker is really slippery!At the last table, Yagyu Mataemon almost laughed out loud. Ieyasu sighed softly and closed his mouth.He knew very well that most people had no objections, only a competitive person like Ando Naoji had objections, but it didn't help the matter.Faced with this unexpected event, the best solution is to cut the mess quickly.What is clear now is that he is dissatisfied with Okubo Tadane's going his own way, not only Honda and his son, Hidetada is also quite unhappy.The old guy Okubo thought it was the past, and he could scold Hidetada at every turn.It seems that Xiuzhong will put the burden of suppressing foreign believers on Zhonglin's shoulders no matter what, and send him to the top. "My lord." Nagai Naokatsu who was next to Yagyu Mataemon said, "The chef said that dinner is ready." "Oh." Ieyasu looked a little tired, "Then, let's take a rest first." "Understood. Let them bring the supper." Ando Naoji and Yagyu Mataemon got up and left the table, and soon after, they asked the servants to bring the dinner.However, during this interval, no one spoke.It was past half hour, and even the courtyard was pitch black. "It's been a long time since everyone got together to have a meal." When raising chopsticks, Ieyasu said, but no one answered.Everyone is seriously thinking about sending Okubo Tadaochi to the top. Ieyasu suddenly felt strange, and a feeling crossed his mind: I can't die now! "Hahaha, it's like keeping a vigil at the grave. Well, after dinner, let Yagyu Mataemon tell you the news about the capital and Osaka that was delivered to him. It's just for fun." Zongju saluted respectfully, thinking at the same time that Ieyasu had finally returned to his original nature.In fact, at the beginning, he was still thinking that he might have to say something during this meeting, but at the beginning, Ieyasu had a deep reflection on himself, which frightened everyone and focused all their attention on the meeting On the theme; after seeing that everyone's ideas are exhausted, they will use new news to stimulate everyone.This is the strategy that Ieyasu often used to inspire people's thinking during the Sekigahara War.From this point of view, Ieyasu probably already had a countermeasure in mind. Not long after, the rice was used up, and the servant boy served tea and retreated. "It's almost there, Mataemon, I heard that Honami Koetsu from the capital has sent you news again." Ieyasu urged while picking his dentures. "Yes. Mr. Motoami seems to think that the current situation should not be delayed any longer..." Yagyu Mataemon tried to maintain a calm tone in order to avoid giving everyone the feeling that the situation was dangerous. "How do you say that?" Ieyasu responded, "Where did he find out? He was originally a worried and impatient person." "Sir, Osaka Castle has sent envoys to Kaga three times. Needless to say, the purpose is to invite Dr. Ukon Takayama, saying that he wants to build the castle recently, so he wants to invite him." "What did Takayama Nanfang say?" Honda Masanobu asked immediately.Regarding these, Zhengchun also knew, but he pretended not to know, with an attitude of indifference. "Ukon-doctor seemed to report the matter to Lord Kaga immediately, but was stopped by Mr. Toshinaga. But after that, Osaka sent envoys again and again. It is said that Ukon-doctor has been quite upset recently. He not only owes Kaga favor, but also wants to pay Dabancheng did his best, and immediately fell into a dilemma. Therefore, Mr. Guangyue believes that the final decision of everything must still be faith." "What does he mean, Nanfang is leaving Kaga?" "Mr. also went to Kaga specially, and met with Lord Kaga and Lord Yokoyama. His speculation was made after that, so it is very credible." In fact, Ieyasu had heard this report a long time ago, but he pretended to hear it for the first time, and nodded frequently, "Then, who is the mastermind behind the invitation from Osaka?" "It's still unclear." Mataemon was deliberately vague, "It's just that recently, an unexpected rumor seems to have taken root in Osaka Castle." "What kind of rumors?" "Rumors say that the joint name certificate that Okubo Chang'an brought into the city is a blood alliance letter made for martyrdom. He has long expected that today will come, and in order to prepare for this day, he specially made the joint name paper." "For martyrdom?" Xiuzhong leaned out. "Yes. Whether this rumor was fabricated by the priest who entered the city, or whether it was fabricated by Akashi Sobe, Hayami Kai, etc., is still unknown. In short, one should not take it lightly. Anyway, the meaning of the rumor is that Chang'an has seen that sooner or later the shogunate will Destroying Osaka is already an unshakable strategy." Maemon noticed that the important ministers were all looking at each other in surprise, and his tone became more relaxed, "Chang'an was not originally a retainer of Toyotomi, but he was not a believer who betrayed God. He From the time when Miura Anzhen came to the Imperial Palace, he had already foreseen the danger of the old church, so he hurriedly discussed with Hideyasu from Echizen and defected to Duke Tadaki." Because Mataemon's tone was indifferent, but it really touched the point, all the people in the room were dumbfounded and froze on the spot. "The person who spread the rumors is really scheming. Chang'an really thinks so? But he himself is dead, and Echizen is gone. In a word, there is no proof of death. That person said this in order to cleverly use the joint signature effect. As a result, everyone seemed to be possessed by a demon." "Then," Ieyasu urged, "what if that rumor takes root, Maetemon?" "Needless to say, it will give the world the illusion that Osaka has been pushed to the point where he has to go back." "Osaka has to rebel?" "Chang'an passed away, and Miura Yasuke became the world around the Great Imperial Palace. The evidence is that the envoys of England and the Netherlands traveled all over Japan in a grand manner, and even visited the mansion in Edo Castle... just these, then It is only the danger of the old religion, not the danger of Daban City. That's why at this critical moment, the joint name certificate was presented again... Okubo Chang'an had expected this day long ago, so he formed a blood alliance. And unintentionally, with The ministers and close ministers of Dasaka headed by Hideyorai also signed their names together. The survivors of Chang'an were all executed, and this joint signature will surely fall into the hands of the general or the Imperial Palace. rendezvous, and this rendezvous also created an excuse for Osaka: a military meeting to discuss how to conquer Osaka." "It's reasonable." Ieyasu said calmly, "The creator of this rumor is really sophisticated. In order to lay the foundation for future commotion, he must have used a lot of brains." Andemon only hoped that everyone would not be shocked when they heard this.Unfortunately, except for Jiakang, no one's face remained unchanged.Only Honda was convinced. Although he was a little surprised, there was a sense of calmness behind the astonishment. "However, you said that the rumor has taken root, is there any other basis?" Ieyasu asked. "Yes." Mataemon put on a smile on his face, "They also sent an envoy to Sanada Masayuki who lived in seclusion on Mt. help." "Isn't Changxing already dead?" "Exactly. Therefore, the envoy was also taken aback, so he hurried back to report the situation. It is estimated that they are discussing whether to invite the son of Changxing. The talent of his son Yukimura is not mediocre, but Zongji knows that Yukimura's military skills Talent, no less than his father..." Hearing this, Tadyo Sakai's expression changed, he interrupted Maemon, "So... so... Osaka has already started preparing for the battle?" His tone sounded quite anxious. Jia Kang only lightly reprimanded: "You don't have to worry about these things. I have already arranged it." "Arranged?" Zhong Shi was taken aback. Ieyasu said softly as if nothing had happened: "I have already told Izu Mamoru. Izu Mamoru will not let his brother participate in the conspiracy. He owes Tokugawa a favor." Hearing Ieyasu's words, Zhongshi nodded endlessly, and everyone in the group nodded too.关原合战时，信州上田城主伊豆守信之，曾为加盟西军的父亲安房守昌幸和弟弟左卫门佐幸村乞命，得了家康的宽恕。 故，此次家康想通过伊豆守信之，劝说幸村休要轻举妄动。由于真田幸村之妻乃西军智将大谷吉继之女，其兄长上田城主伊豆守信之之妻，为德川四天王之一本多平八郎忠胜之女，大家都不便多言。 “还有什么新鲜事吗？没有的话，就重新议事了。” 前面是杂谈，接下来是议事，真是泾渭分明，众人顿时正襟危坐。 “那么，对与大久保长安和洋教徒有关联的人之处分，及派大久保相模守往上方的事，就这样定了。” 家康话音刚落，秀忠立刻道：“正如父亲大人所言，派相模守去上方的事就这般决定了。但究竟让相模守带着什么密旨去，必须慎重考虑。第一个问题便是，相模守是否要去大坂城？”秀忠飞快地看了父亲一眼，继续道：“必须先把这个定下来。” 家康使劲点点头，“那就请大家谈谈看法。既然派遣大久保到大坂去，就有要不要会见右大臣的问题。你怎想，正信？” “在下以为，现在的时机还不适合与右大臣见面。与其与右大臣会面，不如与所司代板仓大人先谈一谈，先处置一下造成骚动的信徒。这才是重要的事。” “处置信徒？”秀忠问道。 “恕在下直言，在下以为，首先要将投奔前田氏、在能登获得近三万石封地的高山右近大夫，和同样客居前田氏的内藤（小西）飞騨守如安流放，方是关键。” "Ok." “听说内藤如安的封地有四千石，再加上高山南坊的，共有近四万石，他们的开支已足够。若他们向世间发出纠集天下信徒的文书，说不定就会发展成昔日一向宗暴动那等大乱。故，在下以为，应该赶紧从此处下手。”正信冷静地说完，飞快看了秀忠一眼。 秀忠看了看父亲，但家康却无意开口。他再度闭上眼睛，把两手放在膝前的扶几上，思索着什么。片刻之后，他道：“佐渡守的意思，是赶紧处置高山和内藤二人？” "Exactly." “那么雅乐头呢？” “未有异议。” “大炊头呢？” 土井利胜略微思考了一会儿，应道：“在下以为，还是当直接去见秀赖公，先向他提出忠告，让他避免卷入骚动；然后，不动声色推进移封一事，才是上策。否则，一旦秀赖听到高山、内藤遭到处置，就会武断以为，江户决意要对大坂动手。准确说，因为他身边皆是奸人，故一旦处理不当，反倒会酿成大祸。” “这倒也有些道理。那么，上野介，你说呢？” 秀忠知，当家康要说些什么时，必然会正对别人，但他现在依然闭目沉默，故秀忠只得催促正纯。 “在下赞成父亲的意思。”正纯严肃地说着，向前膝行了一步，“实际上，秀赖公只是大坂城的一个装饰，事实上是女主掌权……一旦贸然对他说出移封之事，恐会造成大乱。总之，大坂城内的一场骚乱已是在所难免，既已看透这点，就应当机立断。如此一来，就算他们想乱事，也腾不出手脚。不给他们套上枷锁，移封亦不会平稳进行。况且，既然已与上杉氏之直江山城守、九度山的真田左卫门佐也都打了招呼，那就应先将洋教暴乱的核心人物除去，再处置大坂，方能将骚乱控制到最小限度。” 秀忠又飞快地看了家康一眼。但家康仿佛就要睡着了似的，静静待在那里一动不动。于是，秀忠又把视线转向在座众人，“上野介的意思也明白了。还有谁有话说？” 无人回话。看来，实无人对处理此事怀有自信。 “父亲大人。”秀忠不得不望着家康，“大家说得甚是有理，请父亲大人吩咐。” “哦，一不小心竟打了个盹。”家康迷迷糊糊嘟囔道，“此事若不告诉秀赖一声，恐怕不妥。” “这么说，父亲大人赞同大炊头的意思？” “不，和利胜的意思还有些不同。我方才询问了神佛的意见。你听着，人皆是神佛之子。同为神佛之子的秀赖已二十一岁了，他早已成人。对于一个成人，我们就必须以待成人的方式待他；若去施怜悯，只能类似一个愚蠢母亲的愚蠢关爱。” 众人茫然若失，面面相觑。 “那么，先派大久保相模守往大坂吗？”秀忠深感意外，声音不禁高了起来。看来，他已与本多正信反复商议过了。 “不，”家康轻轻摇了摇头，“让相模守去说，太缺乏诚意，嘿，还是由我去说吧。” “父亲大人要亲自去？” “并非我特意赶到大坂去。把忠邻派往上方的同时，还要把片桐市正叫到骏府来，然后把事情恳切地告诉市正。这样，我们的真心就会传达给秀赖了。” “那么，相模守呢？” “要他处置京坂信徒，然后由将军亲自处置高山、内藤之事。”秀忠终于放下心来，舒一口气。看来，父亲还是巧妙地妥协了，既采纳了土井利胜的意见，也给足了本多父子面子。 其实，家康的考虑不止如此。 “总之，不能让太平再度成为乱世。说实话，以忠邻的能力，实无法说服秀赖。既然明白这些，却还是要派他去，我一定会受到神佛的斥责，而且也对不住已故太阁大人。因此，我想向将军提出一个请求，不知能否允准我？” 秀忠大吃一惊，慌忙低头施礼，“父亲如此郑重，吩咐便是。” “也无他。能否请你从河内或摄津当中挑出一块地方，再加封给秀赖一万石。” “一万石？这已经……但是，究竟是为何？” “实际上，当我刚隐居到骏府时，大坂那边曾为修复方广寺的事向我募过钱。巧妇难为无米之炊啊，我拒绝了。当时，觉得大坂有已故太阁留下的甚多黄金，才拒绝，可是，一直这样下去，就是我不厚道了。” “这么说，是要修大佛殿？” “不错。我若把片桐叫到骏府来，空气就会益发紧张，因此，我就推说把前些日子的捐赠之事忘记了，现在又想起来，想多少捐一点。这样一来，不但大坂容易接受，一些不必要的误解也可以化解了。”说到这里，家康再次仔细环视着大家，“你们听着，我并不想为此事搅得天下大乱，这是我的夙愿，因此，我对将军也始终是一心一意。我恳请各位不要忘记了这些。否则，当欲铲除骚乱的根基时，骚乱却越弄越大。骚乱一旦大起来，惨遭涂炭的就绝非大坂和江户的百姓了。算了，我的话就说到这里。秀赖的事，就由我担下来。那么，究竟让忠邻如何做，我们再接着合计一下。”言罢，家康微微闭上了眼睛。 The night is already very deep.