Chapter 2 Chapter Two

Imai Sokaoru covered the warm spring sun with a fan, and hurried to the Sanppongi Kodaiin residence.The world is tentatively determined, and the renovation of Fushimi Castle is about to be completed. It is said that Tokugawa Ieyasu in Osaka Castle will move there soon.Therefore, Zong Xun first built a mansion in Fushimi Castle, and almost never returned to Sakai Port. It is widely rumored among the people that the friendship between Zong Kaoru and Ieyasu is no less than that of the late Taiko Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Sen Rikyu. Some people even say that Zong Kaoru is Ieyasu's hand-eye.However, Zong Xun strictly warned himself not to be arrogant and domineering by relying on his power.He trusted Ieyasu from the bottom of his heart.In today's China, who would dare to say "no" to Ieyasu?Even so, Ieyasu almost never got angry with others easily, and never showed a hint of arrogance.Everyone in the world thinks that Ieyasu will stay in Osaka Castle for granted to order the world, but he said that he will send Hidetada back to Edo, and he will retire Fushimi to deal with government affairs.Before Ieyasu made this decision, Zong Xun admired something that happened.

Meng Toyotomi's generous daimyo proposed Asano Nagamasa and suggested to Ieyasu: "The young master is still young, so it is better to let him move to another place for the time being, and the master of the inner court stays in Osaka to handle government affairs." However, Ieyasu rebuffed very flatly: "There is no need. Anyway, the granddaughter will marry later, and Ieyasu will be their backing in Fushimi Castle." The former officials of the Toyotomi Clan were all grateful when they heard this, and Zong Xun was naturally full of admiration.Of course, some people said that this was just a trick used by Ieyasu to win over Toyotomi's old ministers.Zong Xun often thought: These people’s thoughts are really strange. Even if Ieyasu’s trip was out of scruples about Toyotomi’s old ministers, isn’t their humility also admirable?

Today, Zong Xun received a message that the Gaotai Institute urgently summoned him.Zong Xun has not seen Gaotaiyuan for a long time.He hurried to the Sanjo Bridge in a sedan chair.As soon as I got off the sedan chair, I heard someone shout: "Ah, Mr. Imai?" Zong Xun looked back and saw that it was Honami Guangyue, who was trotting all the way sweating profusely.Zong Xun said: "Mr. Ben Ami, where are you going?" "Madam Gaotai Yuan summoned." "Ah, I'm here for that too." Both of them were very puzzled. "Could it be because of Lord Yuxi..." Zong Xun whispered.It is widely rumored in the capital that Ukita Hideo's family escaped to Satsuma and is still alive.

Honami Koetsu did not answer.In his eyes, Gaotaiyuan is definitely not a careless person who easily intervenes in these matters.Even if Kodaiin is begging Ieyasu for Ukita Hide's family now, the result will only be counterproductive, and it will always be detrimental to the Toyotomi family.When Hideyoshi was alive, she had no scruples to interfere in political affairs.But the late Taige was different from others after all, and she still had a sense of proportion in this regard. Seeing that Guangyue was silent, Zong Xun didn't say much, and followed him to Sanppongi, and entered Gaotaiyuan Mansion.Along the way, Zong Xun was still thinking: would she summon us separately, or go in and talk together?While thinking about it, Qing Shuni came out and said to them, "Please, both of you."

The two looked at each other, then followed Qing Shuni into the room. The other cherry blossoms in the courtyard have long since withered, only the Yae cherry blossoms are falling heavily on the branches. "Jiu Shu greetings, I am very pleased to see that my wife is well." When Zong Xun greeted her, Guangyue wiped her eyes, trying to see something on Gaotaiyuan's face.Compared with Zong Xun, Guangyue is more careful. "You two are in good health, and the old man is also very happy." Gao Taiyuan ordered Qing Shunni to make tea, and then cut to the point, "Actually, I asked you to come this time because I want you to inquire about the meaning of the Lord of the Neifu."

"Although I don't know what's going on, but if it's Madam's business, the Lord of the Neifu..." Before Zong Xun finished speaking, Guangyue interrupted: "Even if the result doesn't go as Madam wished, I will try my best." Gaotaiyuan looked at the two of them and said, "I heard that the Lord of the Neifu is leaving Osaka and moving to Fushimi." "Exactly. It must be in the near future." "Then who will stay by Shao-kun's side? Now there are only Koide and Katagiri. Although the Seven Hands are responsible for guarding Hideyori, it's too thin. Have you ever heard that there are any more capable people staying behind?" As a guardian, take care of Hideyori?"

"I've never heard of this..." Before Guangyue finished speaking, Zong Xun said, "I heard that Mrs. Dian doesn't want to hand over Young Master to others, she wants to strictly discipline and raise Young Master herself." "Did Xiuliang, the son of Dazang, also become an official?" "Exactly." This time it was Guangyue who answered, "Claiming that he was sent by the lord of the Inner Palace, so he was treated with extra courtesy." Guangyue purposely spoke very bluntly, secretly observing the expression on Gaotaiyuan. Gaotaiyuan frowned and turned his head to one side.Although Mrs. Yodo is young and widowed, it is pitiful, but it is so sad for Hideyori who grew up in such an environment to witness the mess of her mother and close officials.Thinking of this, Gaotaiyuan was very disturbed.After a while, she changed the subject as if nothing had happened: "Master Neifu has a lot of work to do every day, and it must be very hard. It shouldn't be at this time... But I am really tired of living in this house."

"Madam's meaning..." Guangyue glanced at Zongxun secretly, and was taken aback in her heart: Could it be that Gaotaiyuan wants to go back to Osaka Castle to live with Hideyori? "If I live here for a day, someone will come and disturb me for a day." "Things must be as Madam said, but..." Zong Xun didn't understand the meaning of Gaotaiyuan, and had to be vague, "That's because all the big names regard Madam as their mother." "That's why I can't refuse their visits, but I can't see them all. I'm tired." "This……"

"It's time for me, the Taige's widow, to abandon the mundane world and retire to the mountains and forests." "Ma'am, this is... what a pity." "No, alas. The Lord of the Imperial Household inherited Taiko's will, and Edo's Chunayan character has nothing to say. Besides, Hideyori and Chihime's marriage contract has been established, so I want to retire here." Kodaiin said. After that, put your hands together, "I wonder if you two can ask the Lord of the Neifu if he can build a small temple for the old man?" "Madam, you..."

"I want to live quietly in a monastery in a place where the winds of the world cannot blow, and only talk to Lord Taige's spiritual tablet every day..." Motoami Koetsu suddenly felt some moisture in his eyes, and turned his head to one side.He already understood Gaotaiyuan's intentions. "I really didn't expect..." Zong Xun was surprised, and said with his head sideways, "I think the Lord of the Inner Palace would be quite happy to build a temple for his wife, but now..." "Not yet, is it?" "Exactly. There are many things about the Toyotomi family that cannot be done without Madam's guidance..." Zong Xun seemed to think of something when he said this, "Oh, there is a letter that I want Madam to read, it was written by Lu Yu's Master Date to Xiao Human."

"Master Date? Can you read it to me?" "Of order." Zong Xun took out a small silk bag from his arms, and carefully opened Date Masamune's letter. Ida's handwriting is vigorous and free and easy. Motoami Koetsu looked serious, trying to figure out the content of the letter. "Yidaxi said bluntly, if there is any impoliteness, please forgive me." Zong Xun solemnly read it word by word: "...In short, we hope that whether it is in Edo or Fushimi, we will do it in the inner city." The Lord of the Mansion can take the young Young Lord by his side and raise him carefully. After he grows up, according to the Lord’s judgment, when the time is right, he will return to the Young Lord. Although it is the blood of Lord Taige, the current Young Lord is still If you are not someone who can take charge of state affairs, it is better for the master of the inner court to use his own judgment and see the right time to give him one or two leading countries as a long-term plan...Now the young master lives in Osaka, mingling in the inner court every day, doing nothing. If After a while, because the villain did something wrong for no reason, and caused the ignorant child to commit a serious crime, wouldn't it be a burden to the Taige? We are sending a letter to Mr. just for this matter, and this is also for the sake of the young master. Even if it is a joke, it is also I hope I can convey the outline of this letter to Lord Honda Zhengshin..." Before I finished listening, Gaotaiyuan's face was as white as wax.She clearly knew why Zong Xun wanted to tell her this letter of belief.Zong Xun himself also believes that entrusting Hideyori to Ieyasu for training is for the sake of the Toyotomi family's foundation for generations to come.He must have wanted to say, if Gaotaiyuan does not issue this order, who would dare to mention it? Gao Taiyuan held the rosary against his forehead and remained silent. "This letter is really far-sighted. Only Lord Date can write this letter. The villain is very impressed. I don't know what Madam thinks?" "That's right." Gao Taiyuan closed his eyes and sighed, "Actually, the old man wanted to retire as soon as possible because he was afraid of these things." "Ma'am missed it." Guangyue said suddenly.Zong Xun was startled, and hurriedly stopped: "Mr. Ben Ami..." Guangyue was still unrestrained: "Madam is wrong. If Madam raises this matter and Madam Dian refuses, no matter what, she will keep the child by her side. It will not be too late for Madam to go back to hiding. Madam has nothing to do, let the young master spend his days Hanging around in the inner room is disrespectful to Lord Taige." "Mr. Benami!" "Since Madam summoned you specially, if you don't speak out what's on your mind, you will be disrespectful to Madam... Madam, don't think about it, if you grow up under the doting of all the women, the dragon horse will also become a nasty horse! How to raise a good offspring , has always been a big deal.” In the face of Guangyue who is also stern, Gaotaiyuan remains calm. Guangyue went on to say: "Madam summoned us today, she must be hoping that we can speak out, so the villain will offend me a lot." Zong Xun knew Guangyue's temperament, and he would never stop if he didn't reveal all his thoughts, so he didn't try to stop him. "The matter that Lord Yida mentioned in the letter just now must be proposed by someone close to Shaojun. Everyone will think that this is the best suggestion. I think that the Lord of the Neifu also thought carefully before rejecting it on purpose. Asano's suggestion. What do you think, madam?" "Asano's suggestion?" "It turns out that Madam doesn't know yet. Master Asano suggested to the Master of the Neifu to let the young master move out of Osaka City and move to another place. However, the Master of the Neifu said that his granddaughter will marry in the near future, there is no need to move, he just moved to Fushimi... But I think that there must be a lot of articles in it. Since the lord of the Neifu said so, it is better to ask him to bring Shaojun by his side and train him carefully. But I don’t know if there are people with such insights around Shaojun who can say these words , not to judge the belly of a gentleman with the heart of a villain, I foolishly thought that there was some temptation in it, but no one brought it up. It is conceivable what the young gentleman will become when he grows up among women. People Learning should be the most important thing. If you don't go through any training and do your own thing all day long, how can you rule the world when you grow up? Now that the world has been entrusted to the Lord of the Inner Palace, it is understandable if he wants to find someone else to entrust the world... Madam What do you think?" Guangyue stopped suddenly, seeing that the Gaotai Courtyard was already in tears, he said, "The villain is going too far, please forgive me, madam." Gaotaiyuan smiled sadly and shook his head, "No... that's exactly what I want to ask." "Don't dare. The villain failed to consider Madam's mood..." "Gentlemen, please listen to what I have to say." "All ears." "Actually, I asked Asano to say that." "Ah? Madam said to let Shaojun move from Daban City to another place?" Guangyue asked in surprise. Gao Taiyuan wiped away the tears from the corners of his eyes, and nodded, "I'm such an old woman with bad intentions. I originally thought that if I said this, the Lord of the Neifu might come to discuss with me as he wished. To be a respectable name, Feng The Chen clan was able to save both face and blood." "That's true, but who would have thought..." "However, the lord of the Neifu is much more upright than the old man." Speaking of this, Mrs. Gaotaiyuan couldn't help but shed tears again, "The lord of the Neifu has made Asano and the old man ashamed, and the old man can't wait to find a crack in the ground." Gao Taiyuan's heartfelt words made Guangyue and Zongxun's eyes moist.Kodaiin doesn't think much of Hideyori's face.She just wanted to let Xiu Lai leave Osaka City as soon as possible and go to a safe place so that she could rest assured.As long as Hideyori is in Osaka, she will be poisoned by the sword of ambition. "But when I think about it carefully, this old man's consideration is too hasty. The Master of the Neifu seems to have a different meaning in his answer. No one has thought about what kind of person Hideyori will be trained and how to train it - the words of the Neifu contain this means to blame." Guangyue and Zongxun looked at each other and nodded. It is not unreasonable to say that, it would be too hasty and unrealistic to determine Xiulai's weight now.It is also an eagle, only through the hard work of the falconer can we finally determine whether it is good or bad. "The Neifuguo is an extraordinary person. So, I asked Master Xiaozang to follow Mr. Asano to Osaka secretly." "To Mrs. Dian?" Guangyue asked. "Hideyori is still a child, and Mrs. Dian is in charge of everything." "Then... what did Mrs. Dian say?" "Hey!" Zong Xun said with reproach in his tone.This is to tell Guangyue to be careful, how can he ask such a question? "I will not hide anything from you. I will let them discuss with her whether to entrust Xiu Lai to the lord of the inner palace, or to choose an assistant who is appreciated by the lord of the inner palace..." "What did Madam say?" "Unable to see." "What, haven't seen it yet?" Guangyue said. Gao Taiyuan didn't answer, turned his head to one side, and bit his lip hard.She didn't tell the two exactly how Master Xiao Zang reported.I heard that Mrs. Dian was leaning on Ono Zhichang's lap at that time, fascinated... But, Master Xiaozang didn't see all this with his own eyes.But in this city, a maid who served Kodaiin said: "Madam is busy today and cannot be summoned. Please leave a message and convey it on your behalf." Later, she revealed the inside story to Asano Nagamasa. "Since we can't see each other, we can't discuss it." Zong Xun sighed and whispered. "It's because of this that I have the heart to go back to seclusion." Gao Taiyuan wiped away tears, "letting go, maybe it's disrespectful to Lord Taige. But in this world, there are always things that people can't do anything about. Maybe it's because I'm tired It's..." Moto Ami Guangyue really wanted to say without any scruples: "It's so free and easy!" But he finally held back.There are indeed some things in life that make people helpless, and he admits this.But because of this, the idea of ​​​​retiring to hermit is aroused. What is the benefit in the world?The so-called effect must have a cause, no matter what kind of difficulty, it has its root cause.The determination to cut off these roots is called courage, and only those who have courage can overcome difficulties. "I also thought, should I go and talk to Mrs. Dian in person?" "This is the best, this is courage." Guangyue said hastily. "The matter has not yet been settled, but Madam stands by and does nothing, how can this be done?" Zong Xun said. "Sir is right." "Don't dare. The villain is just saying what's in his heart. If he doesn't, he will be disrespectful to his wife." "Have you ever thought about it, sir, if I suppress Mrs. Dian and send Xiu Lai to the inner palace forcibly, what should I do if something happens to the young master?" "but……" "Listen to me. Now that Xiu Lai's illness has not recovered, what if it becomes serious and something unexpected happens, so what will happen?" "Yes, but..." "At that time, if there were rumors that the young master had been murdered, how could the old man deal with himself?" "Ma'am," Zong Xun interrupted as if he didn't want to let Guangyue talk anymore, "In this way, not only the Lord of the Neifu and Mrs. Dian, but you and Mrs. Dian will also..." "Not only that, but people who often associate with me will have disputes with Mrs. Dian's people... Therefore, you really can't act forcefully." "Even if it is as Madam said, Madam Yodo is Nobunaga's niece no matter what. If you open your heart, you will be able to untangle your heart." Guangyue still insisted on her own opinion.In his view, misunderstandings between people are caused by cowardice and mutual scruples.Even if there is a conflict, if you can open your mind and communicate with each other, you can quickly turn it into friendship.Gaotaiyuan also specially called Guangyue here because he knew that Guangyue had such courage. "Sir, listen to me first!" "Yes, the villain speaks too rashly..." "No, I just want to ask you for your help because I appreciate your upright character. I am tired and have no energy left to take care of Xiu Lai's affairs, so I want to go back to the mountains and forests, and be with the Qingdeng Ancient Buddha. I want you Tell Mrs. Dian these words." Guangyue straightened his posture immediately, thinking that there must be a reason for it, but when he thought that Gaotaiyuan only wanted Jiayasu to build a temple for her, he couldn't help feeling a little disappointed.But Gaotaiyuan seems to have deeper considerations... Thinking of this, Guangyue said: "Madam said that the villain should come to Madam Dian?" "Thinking that Hideyori Jin offered the thing worn on his waist as an excuse, I think we can meet her smoothly." "yes." "Also, you tell Mrs. Dian exactly what we said today." "Obey!" "I once discussed with the lord of the inner court about Hideyori, but was reprimanded by the lord of the inner court, and sent Asano and Lord Xiaozang to go there but failed to meet..." "There is also Madam who wants to escape from the world because of this..." "That's right." The Gaotaiyuan suddenly lowered its voice, "Listen well, I said that I want to live in seclusion because of a small wish." Guangyue couldn't help leaning forward and said: "I understand. That's the best." Gaotaiyuan stared closely at Guangyue: "The reason why I want to convert to Buddhism is just to see the world from now on, so that I can devote myself to worshiping the soul of Master Taige. Just tell her like this." "Master Taige is dead?" "Yes. As long as Mrs. Dian and Hideyori are born in this mundane world, they will inevitably have many chores. How can they care about enshrining the dead? Therefore, in order not to make Lord Taiko lonely, I simply put aside all worldly chores and protect Lord Taiko sooner or later. .You can just say so." "Is this... suitable?" Gao Taiyuan nodded seriously, "Tell her, this is my last wish." "But if you say that, aren't you blaming Mrs. Dian for being negligent..." Guangyue said halfway, as if she understood something, she suddenly shut up.If Gao Taiyuan said that, how would Mrs. Dian, who has always been competitive, feel?She will definitely think: Never admit defeat!So they competed to worship the dead.This is naturally much better than burying your head in other things, and the young Hideyoshi will definitely feel the great responsibility from it. Yes, this is Gaotaiyuan's last wish, or rather her last teaching. "Little man understands." Guangyue nodded hastily, "That's true. If you want Shaojun to understand the responsibility of being the heir of the Toyotomi family, this is the best way." When Guangyue and Zongxun walked out of Mippongi's mansion, it was past the end of time. The purpose of Gaotaiyuan is quite clear.She wants Zong Xun to convey her wish to Jiayasu tactfully, hoping that Jiayasu can build a small temple for her, not to pray for the death of her late husband and mother, but to spend the rest of her life in the temple quietly. When the two came out, neither of them spoke, they walked all the way to the banks of the four rivers, and they walked into a teahouse at the same time.Sitting down, the two looked at each other and sighed.The task entrusted by Gaotaiyuan seems simple, but its significance becomes more and more important when you think about it. "Mrs. Dian...isn't it?" Guangyue took a sip of tea, her words were rather vague. "It seems to be." Zong Xun said, "When spring is in full swing, all life is growing. After all, Mrs. Dian is young!" "Even so, her identity and responsibility..." "No no, sir is an exception. Although you are young, you behave in a well-regulated way." "Not to mention the lord of the Neifu, even the other big names are worried about the future, but at this time..." "I suddenly thought of something." "What is it?" "Young widows tend to think wildly and jealously all day. She must have thought about whether the lord of the inner palace will treat her..." "What are you talking about!" "Look, look, put on this face right away. Sir, he is strict and clean, but not everyone is like you, especially when it comes to men and women..." "How could the Lord of the Inner Palace..." "He didn't say anything, but let Ono Xiu, who had been involved with Mrs. Yodo, come back to her. In this way, the more aggressive a woman is, the more stubborn she will become." Guangyue widened her eyes in surprise and said nothing.He felt that there was something in Gaotaiyuan's words, and it seemed that it was just expressing his intention to blame Mrs. Dian for her misbehavior.But he never expected that Ieyasu would be involved. "If you don't believe it, then go ahead. With Mrs. Yidian's disposition, to be her husband will surely win the world. Although the previous lords of the Inner Palace were outstanding, they were the ones who served the Lord Taige. Today's lords of the Inner Palace are no longer It's the same, he is a man of the world now, so if he doesn't show love to this number one beauty in the world who lives in the same city, it doesn't make sense at all, this is considered rude in matters between men and women." "Humph!" "Haha. If you have shown your love, how a woman treats her is a woman's business. But if you don't take her seriously, you can't justify it in terms of emotion and reason. But the lord of the inner palace insisted on doing such an unreasonable thing .” Zong Xun seemed to want to tell the overly rigid Guangyue some sophistication. "Don't be joking. When I see Mrs. Dian, what should I say? When I think about it, I worry." Guangyue thought Zong Xun was joking.Zong Xun picked up a skewer of meatballs and said, "Look at these meatballs. It doesn't mean that you have to eat them when they are served. But without this dish, you will be accused of poor hospitality." "Needless to say, it's too far away from the topic!" "Sir, do you think I'm joking?" "Is not it?" "How can it be a joke! Before you go to see Mrs. Dian, you should at least know the mystery of this. This is advice." "Oh?" "The inner court didn't serve this dish. Someone got angry because of this, so he took out the dry food that was stored in his waist and ate it. I'm not sure, but there must be such a possibility, so I'll remind you." "So Oh Ye Xiu is the dry food?" "Didn't it hang around your waist before?" "It's surprising. So, you think Mrs. Dian must be a romantic person?" "Neither romantic nor romantic. Men and women in this world, if they are not lustful, they are really useless. What I want to say is that if the adults of the inner palace are really so rude, it may not be surprising for Mrs. Dian to act." "I don't understand!" Guangyue shook her head vigorously, "Why is it not rude to show love to a widow, but it is rude to be silent?" "Don't say it so bluntly, it seems to be sarcastic. No matter how much a woman puts on airs, if she says to her: I love you, she won't be angry because of it. Of course, what happens after that is another matter. If you are like Mr. Taige If you have praised someone else's wife, and hastily ordered her to attend the bed, it will definitely cause resentment. However, this compliment is also a kind of thoughtfulness, who wouldn't want to be praised by the world? Therefore, it would be rude not to do so." Guangyue looked serious and fell into deep thought.If Zongxun's words are reasonable, this task will be even more difficult.Gaotaiyuan wanted to prevent Mrs. Dian from committing misconduct.Of course she wanted Mrs. Dian to dedicate herself to the Buddha, but most importantly, she wanted to cultivate Hideyori's aspirations.However, Mrs. Dian was furious because Ieyasu didn't show his love to her. What should an outsider do?If Zong Xun should do this, it would be perfect. Guangyue drank a few sips of tea, then got up to leave.As long as his thoughts are messy, he can't calm down. "Let me think about it, and take my time when I get home... I have to ask her what this woman thinks." Guangyue finally said something that seemed a little joking, and then left. Koyue packed the scabbard that Mrs. Yodo had made for Hideyori into a box, and set off for Osaka. It was the third morning after that. Taking a boat down the Yodo River, Koyue stared at the rushing water and continued to think.Guangyue, who has always been serious at home, really tested his wife and Aju, the daughter of Sobashi Ogata who came to study housework at home. "I think no one in this capital can compare with you, regardless of appearance or temperament," he said to his wife. The wife froze on the spot for a while, and said: "Why did you make such a joke..." Before she finished speaking, her face was flushed, and she was a little restless, but she looked quite happy. That's true, life is too boring.Just because of a few sweet words, a woman has been captured physically and mentally, so how to show the ability of a person like Guangyue? Not everyone is like this.Aren't women like Axiu just ready-made examples?Guangyue loves to get to the bottom of her faults, which is really extraordinary.Thinking this way in his heart, he tested Aju again with the same words. "Aju, I think, in this vast world, there is no other woman with your appearance and temperament." "Oh!" Aju exclaimed, staring closely at Guangyue, more flustered than his wife.She lowered her head shyly, as if she was about to throw herself into Guangyue's arms, "Brother Guangyue, don't say such things in front of my sister..." Bitch!Guangyue couldn't help clenching her fists, and was about to hit him.He controlled himself: it was obvious that he was the one who teased others first, how could he blame others?But he was still very frustrated: women are so serious on the surface, but secretly they are waiting for men to court each other all the time?Is this the nature of man between heaven and earth?Even though he thought so, his dislike for Aju was lingering, and he was determined to never give her a smiling face again. Sitting on the boat, thinking about these things, Guangyue felt that Mrs. Dian's affairs were difficult to handle.According to Mrs. Dian's nature, if the words are not speculative, she will yell at her, which really worries him.Forget it, just treat it as the last time you enter and exit the inner courtyard of Osaka.Otherwise, just don't mention this matter at all, just say that Gaotaiyuan is going to become a monk.But how can this satisfy Guangyue's desire to explore—what kind of thoughts does Mrs. Dian have, so she doesn't want to entrust Shaojun to Jiakang?To find out this question, one must peek into Mrs. Dian's heart. Zong Xun, what hint did you give me!Guangyue complained in her heart. It was already afternoon when the boat arrived outside the main city of Osaka. At the door, the blooming double cherry blossoms were about to fall.Guangyue was waiting at the door for someone to report. When Hideyoshi was alive, men must never step into the inner court without authorization.Guangyue used to take it for granted and didn't think it was strange.But today he felt another meaning.Taige is self-aware of his age and appearance, and he is afraid of letting the young concubines meet young men.Perhaps, he already knew that women are naturally skittish. God bless, madam, don't let me drink alcohol.Guangyue prayed secretly. It doesn't make sense to ask Mrs. Dian to see Mrs. Dian on the grounds of sending the scabbard.There is a person in charge of this matter in the inner court. If it is more important than this, it is most appropriate to directly discuss with the assistant.However, he wanted to see Mrs. Dian, so he might feel that he was favoring her.But if it comes to giving away the things worn by Shaojun's waist, Mrs. Dian will definitely interrupt.In a sense, Guangyue is regarded as a person who chats and relieves boredom. After waiting for nearly two quarters of an hour, someone came out. "Please come in, sir." Hearing the servant's words, Guangyue broke out in a cold sweat.Mrs. Dian is not only Shaojun's biological mother, but also a living woman who is waiting for a man to court her like a chrysanthemum!Thinking of this, Guangyue was a little at a loss: Regarding women, am I really too rigid, there are too many things I don't know. He thought as he went into the hall.Although there was no smell of alcohol in the hall, there was a suffocating smell of makeup and powder all over the room, which was unbearable. "Guangyue, I kept you waiting. Come closer." Mrs. Dian's appearance was reflected on the knife, and it was also reflected in Guangyue's eyes.This is a coquettish woman who is hungrier than Aju and his wife.Her dress is very coquettish, reminiscent of ripe fruit. "The scabbard that Madam ordered the villain to make is ready, and I brought it here today, and I want to put the knife in it in front of Madam." "Thank you. Show me first." At this time, someone came over with a plate.On the top of Yu Genlai's lacquer plate, Guangyue recognized that this person was Mr. Ono Jichang. The dry food is indeed by her side - Guangyue said in her heart. I only heard Osamu Ono say: "Ah, good! It's so well done! This must be worthy of the late Taiko's favorite authentic knife of one foot and eight inches. Let him put it on quickly." Zhichang put the knife Holding the sheath in front of Mrs. Dian, the tone was very intimate, and it could be seen that the two had long been used to it. The rumors are indeed not groundless.Guang Yuedun was deeply saddened by the scabbard that he had painstakingly crafted and the authentic famous knife that was about to be put into it. Mrs. Dian picked up the scabbard.Hideyori raised her eyes and looked curiously at the things in her mother's hands. "What kind of style is this style?" asked the lost person. "It's Goto Yujo's style." "What about the patterns on the handle?" "It is taken from the artistic conception of the ancient waka: Akashi sea waves grow. These two birds are white-necked plovers, made of platinum." "Looks a bit like silver." "Silver turns black after a while. If you want it to shine forever like gold, you need platinum." "Oh. Alright, then put the knife in quickly." At this time, the servants walked in with the authentic knife in the simple scabbard.Guangyue took back the scabbard, walked to the door, turned her back to everyone, replaced the bamboo knife in the scabbard, and put on the authentic knife. The clothes are seamless, and the one-foot-eight-inch authentic famous sword has become a saber of a young man. Guangyue heard that there has recently been a discussion in the palace about appointing Genji Ieyasu as the general who conquers the barbarians.If it comes true, Hideyori will be promoted to Kwon Dae Nayan as a matter of course.Ieyasu may use Hideyori's promotion as an excuse, and politely decline the chance of promotion before then.But in any case, this knife Hideyori is indispensable. Guangyue loaded up the saber, and suddenly heard Mrs. Dian, Zhichang, Dazang Bureau and others say that she would find a servant boy for the saber, and follow Hideyori around. "Shigesei Kimura should be suitable." Just listen to Yu Tingju say. "Then it's better to simply ask that son's son and let him hold the knife." Dazang Bureau said. "Who are you referring to?" Madam Dian asked scoldingly, "Madam Agui from the Inner Palace?" "Hehe, the servant is joking, Madam, don't be offended." Guangyue was startled, could it be that it would be impossible to let Ieyasu's newly born seventh son, Goro Taimaru, be the servant with a sword?Just thinking of this, Mrs. Dian said another sentence, the words were still stinging, which made Guangyue feel more strange. "Madam Agui's son seems to be suitable, he seems to be three or four years older than Shaojun." Guangyue has no idea that Mrs. Agui has such a big son, and she is even more puzzled.Mrs. Agui, who he saw at Ieyasu's house, looked like she was only twenty-two or twenty-three at most. How could she have a son who was three or four years older than Xiu Lai?It's unbelievable. After putting on the scabbard, Guangyue returned to Mrs. Dian, unable to hold back the doubts in her heart: "Just now, I seem to be looking for a boy with a knife?" Hearing Guangyue's question, Mrs. Dian laughed sharply, "So you're listening too." "Exactly. When making this scabbard, the villain was thinking, what kind of sword holder should I choose for such a magnificent sword?" Guangyue turned to the Dazang Bureau again and said, "Just now you said that among the sons of the master's concubine in the inner palace, there is one of the same age?" The Dazang Bureau laughed and said mockingly: "Mr. Ben Ami, don't you know that Mrs. Agui has such a big son?" "Oh?" "Hehe, that's why it is said that people should not be judged by their appearance." "What happened to that kid?" "I was sent to Edo to be raised by the Master of the Neifu." "The villain said his origin..." "How could he be the master of the inner palace?" The women in the room looked at me and I looked at you, laughing loudly.Even if she doesn't understand women's hearts, Guangyue can still hear that this laughter is unusual, and it contains contempt and hostility, which makes people feel unspeakable unhappiness. "Even an elegant person like Mr. Guangyue has been fooled." The excitement of the Dazang Bureau was extraordinary, and she once again pointed the finger of teasing at Guangyue, "Actually, someone came to tell me, why don't you let me Madam has become the main chamberlain of the Master of the Inner Palace, so that the young master can be kept safe." "Oh." "So, I inquired about it. Hehe, it wouldn't work if Madam was bullied by that Agui Madam." Guangyue nodded silently, thinking to herself: Do the women around Mrs. Dian really think so? "As everyone knows, Mrs. Agui was also a widow. Her previous husband was named Takeyosuke Kuro, who was originally a warrior of the Saito clan of Mino. After the Saito clan was destroyed, his tail feathers were beaten to pieces, and he wandered around. In Hachiman Mountain. Mrs. Agui married him at that time." "really?" "That's why I didn't persuade Madam to remarry." "Oh." "However, Mrs. Agui was pregnant with Takeyosuke Kuro's child, and at this time Takeyosuke Kuro found a job under Akita Tsukyuki, but for some reason committed suicide. Sir, not only did the government get involved with the widow of Sukakuro, but even The orphan of his ex-husband was also regarded as a treasure and brought back to Edo to be raised. How could I introduce a man like this to my wife as a husband? Although we are both widows, my wife is the widow of the majestic Taiko.” The Dazang Bureau laughed again. Got up, and continued, "Master Taiko's widow was bullied by Zukuro's widow... If something like this really happened, it would be terrible. Hahahaha." Guangyue gasped. He didn't believe Zong Xun's conjecture at first, but what the Dazang Bureau said just now confirmed Zong Xun's conjecture.Although Mrs. Dian had intended to remarry, Ieyasu did not express it.Although Guangyue doesn't think it's all because of Mrs. Agui, those women who have hurt their self-esteem must be thinking: It's because of that woman!So for no reason, he blamed Mrs. Agui for the crime, and taunted her.But they never expected that Mrs. Agui was the widow of a poor wanderer, and even her ex-husband's son was taken to Edo Castle to be raised. "What's the name of the child born to Mrs. Agui?" "It seems to be called Takeyao Manmaru. Before he was taken away by the lord of the Uchifu, he lived with his grandfather Jirozaemon in Nishioka in Yawata, living a hungry and full life." As soon as the Dazang Bureau finished speaking, Ono Xiuliangzhi said in a long way: "This bamboo waist Wanwan can't be the young master's sword-holding boy." "Why is that, repair?" Mrs. Dian asked. "Think about it, madam, this knife is the most authentic treasure in the world, but the bamboo waist..." "Hehe," both the Dazang Bureau and Mrs. Dian laughed loudly, "Yes, yes, yes, bamboo knives and the like are too incompatible with authentic famous knives. Hehehehe." It's all blah, blah, blah, blah.Although Guangyue understood, despite his temper, he could no longer keep silent.Seeing that Hideyori seemed amused by everyone's laughter, he puffed up his cheeks and laughed.What will the Shaojun who grew up in this environment look like? "As expected of the lord of the Inner Palace!" Guangyue exclaimed intentionally and earnestly. "You deserve it?" asked the Dazang Bureau. “正是。连贫穷浪人的遗孤都接过来抚养，几人有这等人情味？即便要了人家女人，也做不到。” “恐是因为太喜欢那八幡宫神官的女儿吧。”飨庭局道。 大藏局又大笑道：“恐泊连魂儿都丢了……内府也有所长嘛，哈哈。” “在下不这么看！”光悦终于忍不住了，“夺走别人的女人，却抛弃其与前夫之子，近来似成了一种风气。相形之下，内府大人有担当，值得尊敬。在这个世上，若要给少君选一位师父，非内府大人莫属！” “光悦！”不出所料，淀夫人气得双眉倒竖，“我可不想把少君送到别的地方。你掂量掂量你的言辞！你的意思，是想把少君和浪人之子一样，送到江户去？” 光悦使劲摇头道：“小人绝无此意！” “绝无此意？” “正是。首先，内府大人不在江户，即便将搬到伏见，可现在还与少君、夫人同住一城。” “你是说将少君送到西苑？” “夫人又想差了。小人所言……”光悦竟无法再说下去。不如让家康入住本城，由他亲自来调教秀赖……意识到自己要说什么，光悦慌忙缄口，这话断不可出口了，况且伏见城的修缮也即将完工。 可一向敏感的淀夫人一语中的：“光悦，你是说，让内府搬到这里来，与我和少君住于一处？” "This this……" “哼！你果然乃是个市井之人。我为何要跟什么阿龟阿万争宠？你休要说糊涂话。我可是太阁遗孀、少君生母！哼，我一见内府那张老脸，就会喘不过气来。更有肮脏低贱的阿龟……” 光悦内心深深叹息：原以为宗薰的话不过戏言，在这里却得到了印证。 淀夫人恨的不是家康，而是现在家康身边的五郎太丸之母阿龟夫人、年轻的阿万夫人、阿八夫人等等。淀夫人认为若无她们，家康定亲近她。 女人的心思真是搞不明白。光悦心里这么想着，强压住心头之火，道：“是。这是一个在下看不懂的世间。若小人方才的话有得罪之处，还请夫人见谅。” “呵呵。你明白就好。你许久未来了，今日又带来这般气派的刀鞘，赏你一杯酒。上酒！” 光悦不能推辞。高台院的话还一句没说，便差点被骂。“小人实不敢当。”光悦这么说道，可想到淀夫人总是这么喝酒，喝完又任性胡为，不免放肆，顿感一阵心寒。 门外，丰臣氏的樱花已经开始凋落。这要凋零的花朵，是否也像流水一般，没有任何力量可以阻挡？ 酒端上来，光悦越发痛切地感受到此地不利于秀赖的成长。小出秀政和片桐且元为何未来当值？即便他们可以到议事处，淀夫人恐也不会让其自由出入内庭。 “我也吃上一盅吧。”淀夫人起初让侍女斟酒，不知何时转向了治长，举着杯子让他斟酒，“修理啊，再来一杯……咱们不如一醉方休。” 坐在治长旁边的淀夫人，那妩媚而放荡的姿态直似青楼女子。这种情形下，自不可让小出和片桐同席，他们皆有自知，并非因为听了谣言而胡乱猜疑。宗薰说男女之欲乃是天性，光悦也并不否认。但淀夫人和治长在这里眉目传情、推杯换盏的情形，他实不忍再看下去。他见二人脉脉相视，更觉如坐针毡。 “前几日去了一趟三本木，见到了高台院夫人。”光悦咬咬牙，把此事提了出来。但淀夫人却似未听到。倒是旁边的秀赖问道：“说些什么……”他斜靠在年轻侍女膝头上，抚摸她的下巴。 “夫人说，近期将要建一座寺院，她会从那个宅子里搬出去。”当然，他不是要说给秀赖听，因此故意抬高了嗓门，然后喝了一口酒，呛得咳嗽不已。 “怎么啦，光悦？” “无妨。刚才小人说，高台院夫人要搬出府，到寺院里去住。” “哦，到寺院里去？这不是很好吗？” “是。高台院说，夫人和少君在城中太忙，想必无暇供奉太阁大人亡灵，太阁大人在地下肯定感到寂寞，她才要搬进寺院，早晚供奉。” “太阁大人会感到寂寞？” “正是。高台院夫人是这般说的。” “呵呵。这真是奇怪。光悦，这是不能生养的女人的偏执。” "Oh?" “是。哼，太阁大人怎会寂寞？他每日都在看着少君呢。” 光悦一本正经侧了侧首，觉得有些不可思议：“太阁大人的英灵？”若太阁大人果真看着，便不会有这样的酒宴。光悦话里含着讽刺，他扭过头，一脸不信。 淀夫人竖起双眉，猛站了起来。 “本阿弥先生！”尖利的声音从淀夫人喉咙深处迸出来，“你是说，大人的英灵不得安息，到处游荡？” “这……这，小人怎么知道？只是……小人只是觉得，高台院夫人说得有理，既然夫人和少君都事务繁忙，每日供奉太阁大人英灵的事，就理应由高台院夫人做。” “每日的供奉，理应由少君来做。” “可若是在此城中，少君自有各种事务。” “这是两回事！” "Oh." “高台院说要在什么地方建寺？” “现在正在京城寻地方，近日内还会跟内府大人商议。” “和内府商议？” “是。若说是为了供奉太阁大人，内府大人想必不会有异议。”光悦一边说，一边反省自己的偏执：不当一味揶揄淀夫人，我可不是为这个来的。今日来的目的，是要让淀夫人一心向佛，哪怕是出于嫉妒心也好。如此一来，便能辟谣。 “呵呵，”淀夫人突然高声笑了，“若是跟内府这般说，内府肯定会认为高台院才是真正的忠贞之人，大加赞赏。” "Maybe." “光悦，你去转告高台院，万一内府说现在不能筑建寺院，她千万莫要难过。” “小人若无事，不便去那边。” “呵呵，我不是让你特意去拜访，而是有闲时顺便跟她说一句。至于供奉太阁，既有方广寺，又有丰国神社，有我们来供奉就足够了，不用她挂怀……” 光悦松了一口气。终于达到目的了，不能再这样喝下去，他决定告退。 “夫人说得对。还有大佛殿和丰国神社。”光悦装作恍然大悟，“托夫人的福，小人有些醉了。就此告退。” “这就要回去了？大藏局，帮我送送他。”淀夫人用眼色制止了刚要站起来的治长，而是命他的母亲相送。话音刚落，她已经软绵绵地伏在了地上。 落花的气息，弥漫于大厅……