Chapter 6 Chapter 6 Crusade against Uesugi

Not long after Tokugawa Ieyasu entered the city, he built a solemn castle tower in the west garden of Osaka Castle.Although it can't be compared with the castle tower in this city, it is still a bit luxurious as the residence of the Shaojun and the regent. With the approval of the late Taige, Ieyasu, who is the most powerful in the world, became a trustee.It is undeniable that the two castle towers in a city face each other far away, and Ieyasu also wants to show his majesty to the world's famous names.He seems to be saying that if anyone refuses to accept, Tokugawa Ieyasu is willing to fight with him... In fact, since Ieyasu lived in Xiyuan, he has no scruples, and he regards himself as a man of the world.He first exiled Hijikata Kouchi Morihisa and Ono Shuryo to Hitachi, and then asked Asano Nagamasa to return to Kaifei to think about his mistakes. This time, he deliberately created the illusion that he was going to crusade against the Maeda family in order to force the Richo brothers to succumb.

Needless to say, Asano Nagamasa, the world once discussed that the Toshicho brothers would never beg for mercy from Ieyasu, but since the Maeda family's former governor of Yokoyama Yamashiro and apologized to Ieyasu, the situation has changed drastically.Ieyasu actually ordered Yokoyama Nagawa to send Toshinaga's mother Hoshunin to Edo as a hostage.This request shocked Masuda, Nagatsu and others.Although there was a precedent of the late Taiko taking hostages in Osaka before, it was never before that such a high-status daimyo was held hostage in his own territory.In this way, doesn't it mean that Brother Li Chang gave in to Ieyasu?Ieyasu might have seen through that Maeda would not agree, so he deliberately provoked.

Just as rumors spread, Maeda agreed to hand over the hostages, and everyone was dumbfounded again. Yoshishunin’s explanation is: “There are precedents for this matter. Master Asano has handed over his son to Edo. After the Battle of Komaki Nagakute, the Daisho Office also went to Okazaki as a hostage. As long as it is for the peace of the world, I would rather go through fire and water.” For this almost difficult request, the entire Maeda family was in a commotion.In order to appease the family's dissatisfaction, Maeda Toshinaga acted in complete secrecy. First, Murai Byogo and Yamazaki Anfang sent Yoshishunin to Osaka, and then from Osaka to Edo.Lizheng was even more distressed than Lichang, and said in tears: "Sending mother to Edo as a hostage is tantamount to ruining the family..."

In fact, behind Fangchunyuan's deep understanding and righteousness, there is the great effort of Gaotaiyuan.Kodaiin wholeheartedly inherited Hideyoshi's behest, and took "eternally maintaining peace in the world" as its mission.But fortunately, the incident did not cause a storm. Knowing that the Maeda family did not betray their hearts, Ieyasu still deliberately made things difficult for the Maeda brothers.But after the hostage incident, Ieyasu immediately betrothed Hidetada's second daughter to Toshinaga's younger brother Rijo, who was going to inherit the Maeda family business.This woman is Qianji's younger sister who has a marriage contract with Xiulai.Therefore, if the world is stable, Hideyori and Toshijo will become brother-in-law, and Toyotomi, Tokugawa, and Maeda are inseparable, and they are inseparable.Although this is just a strategic marriage, it is not without Ieyasu's gratitude.The entanglement between Tokugawa and Maeda has been settled.

Then came Mori and Uesugi.Once Mori and Uesugi became Ieyasu's allies, Sancheng had no choice but to obey.Ieyasu is well aware of these.But since Mori Terumoto returned to the neighboring country last year, he has ignored it. Instead, he has frequently contacted Uesugi Kekatsu of Aizu, or asked about Ou's situation, or reported to Uesugi the court's dynamics... Uesugi Kagekatsuji Castle was originally located in Kasugayama Castle in Echigo, but was later transferred to Aizu. It was the first month of the year when Toyotomi Hideyoshi passed away.There is no need to elaborate on Hideyoshi's reasons for transferring Jing Sheng to Aizu, which is 1,219,000 koku.Seeing that Edo was booming, he wanted to suppress it from the north, but after Ujigo's death, Gamo couldn't do anything.Therefore, Hideyoshi moved the Uesugi family, who has been famous for his martial arts since Kenshin, to Aizu to monitor the movements of Edo.Jing Sheng, Jia Kang and San Cheng could not forget this matter.

Unexpectedly, in August of the third year of Qingchang, Jing Sheng received a letter that Hideyoshi was critically ill, so he went to the capital and stayed until August of the following year, and did not return to Xinling for a whole year.So after returning, he immediately immersed himself in tedious tasks such as repairing the city walls and preparing roads.Ieyasu was quite aware of this.However, Ieyasu has not yet fully grasped Jing Sheng's views on the general trend of the world and what actions he will take. Although the late Taige has laid the foundation stone, as long as the peaceful situation cannot be maintained, everyone will only focus on maintaining the status quo or the family business. With such a narrow mind, how can they work together to create a peaceful and prosperous world for generations to come?

Ieyasu kept in touch with Jing Sheng, in fact, he was trying to find out.In this sense, Maeda Toshinaga, who showed weakness to Ieyasu under the persuasion of his mother Hoshunin, at least passed Ieyasu's temptation. In frequent contact, Jiakang finally ushered in a good opportunity to test Jing Sheng. In the first month of the fifth year of Qingcho, Torii Mototada's son-in-law, Shiro Masamori Tozawa, the lord of Izuhakadokan, sent someone to report to Ieyasu: "Uesugi Nagon and the old man Naoeyama continued to defend the castle, not only plotting to overhaul the many castles in the territory In the name of Aizu, Ashina's residence for several generations, being located in a depression, which is easy to attack and difficult to defend, a new city was built in Shenthornyuan, sixty-four miles away from the city."

Almost at the same time, Hideji, the governor of Horizaemon, who was transferred to Echigo, the former leader of Uesugi, also came to report that Jing Sheng seemed to have rebellion.It turned out that Jing Sheng had levied taxes in Echigo half a year in advance before transferring to Aizu, which made Hori Hideji fall into trouble.Hori Hideji, full of resentment, reported to Ieyasu: Jing Sheng seems to have used all the tax money collected to build a new city, renovate Echigo official roads, and repair river wharfs. Hearing the secret report from Tozawa Masamori and Hori Hideji, Ieyasu was neither surprised nor angry.As we all know, reorganizing armaments is the first task that a general must do after taking office, and collecting the annual tax in advance is also because the Gamo clan who was transferred from Aizu to Utsunomiya collected taxes in advance, and Jing Sheng had to do it as a last resort.Ieyasu was not worried about these trivial matters.

At the beginning of March in the fifth year of Qingchang, the snow in Beiguo melted and the cherry blossoms were just about to bloom. "With 1.2 million shi, Uesugi Jingsheng, who has such a huge territory, will really work together with me to create a peaceful and prosperous world? Does he really have such foresight?" Ieyasu often asked himself.A narrow-minded person who is obsessed with showing off his high position, rich salary and strong military force will become the source of riots. After Keicho completed the test of Maeda Toshinaga in four years, Ieyasu began to test Uesugi Kekatsu.

"After Uesugi Zhongnagon returned to the territory, there were endless rumors that he had betrayed his heart. I think you adults have heard of it. It seems that it is impossible not to send troops to ask for requisition." After Masuda, Nagatsu and the newly appointed new chief executive In front of Otani Yoshitsugu, Ieyasu said so.But neither Masuda Nagamori nor Nagatsu Masaka could see that Ieyasu was testing Uesugi Kekatsu.After hearing these words, the two quietly exchanged winks, and turned their eyes to Otani Jiji for help.Ishida Mitsunari frequently sent secret envoys to Uesugi's old Naoeyama castle guard, and of course the two would not know about it.

Otani Yoshitsuji was scheming, and his vision was much farther than that of Masuda Changsheng and Nagatsu Zhengxiang. He said: "Although this is the case, Mr. Zhong Nayan will not degenerate to the point of forgetting the Taige's great kindness and betraying the young master. The world Whether the rumors are true or not, in my opinion, it is advisable to send envoys to investigate." "It's reasonable, it should be so." Ieyasu quite simply agreed with Otani's suggestion.In fact, he didn't think that Jing Sheng was betraying. "Let Ina Shushu and Changsheng retainers go to investigate, what do you think?" Masuda Changmori breathed a sigh of relief, and moved forward.Although Ina Books is Ieyasu's confidant, it would be great if he could let his retainers go with him, so he said, "Do you want to bring the letter of reproach signed by the inner government and us?" "No, since you have already sent people, you don't have to go to reprimand and interrogate them. That would be unreasonable. Tell me that there are rumors all over the place, so I invite Jing Sheng to come and explain. Do you have any objections? Who does Masuda send? Is it better to go?" "This... the head guard of the village of Kawa has acquaintance with Zhong Nayan and the castle guard of Zhijiang Mountain, so why not..." "Then let him go and have a look. Besides, Fengguang Temple's acceptance and Yamashiro Shou are close friends, how about asking him to seal a letter to Shancheng Shou? In this way, the truth can be revealed to the world." Jiakang said calmly. As we all know, when we were in the capital, the elders of Toyoko Temple, a small temple under Xiangguo Temple, had a close relationship with the elders of the Uesugi family, Naoe Yamashiro, so no one had any objections. "Then let Ina Books and Nagato Kawamura take the acceptance letter from the elder...that's it." Masuda Changsheng said. "It depends on how he responds." Otani Ji Jiyi said. Ieyasu nodded calmly.In fact, he was not at peace.Compared to Uesugi Kekatsu, Ieyasu paid more attention to Naoe Kanetsugu.Although Naoe Kanetsugu is a retainer of Jingsheng, but because of his brilliant talent and bold temperament, Taiko is still alive, so he can meet with other daimyos in the same way.He once used the name Tongkou Xingliu, and worked as a servant beside Kenshin.When Kenshin was alive, due to the untimely death of his favorite ministers Naoe and Hebei Nobuzuna, he continued to join the Naoe family and married Hebei's beautiful wife. He was able to inherit the Naoe family business and was reused. After the lord Jingsheng was transferred to Aizu, he was given another 300,000 Shihoulu and became the lord of Yonezawa.The retainer of 300,000 shi is unique in the whole world, which shows that Uesugi Jingsheng attaches great importance to him. Because of the importance of Naoe Kanetsugu in the Uesugi Clan, Ishida Mitsunari frequently sent secret envoys to contact him.And recently, the Uesugi family has also frequently sent people with outstanding eloquence, such as Nagao Seishachiro and Irobe Master Den, to Sawa Yamashiro.Ieyasu knew all of this well.Therefore, the best way to understand the future direction of the Uesugi family is to let the acceptance letter be given to Kanexu. Acceptance was called into Osaka from the capital.Ieyasu sent everyone away, had a private conversation with him for two more years, and then locked him in a study and asked him to write a long letter to Naoe Kanesuke. ...The transmission of the letter this time is really a merciless request.Zhongnayan's entry to Beijing has been delayed so far, the inner government has a lot of doubts, and there are various rumors between the government and the public, so there is such a matter of sending an envoy.The details are given by the emissary, so there is no need to repeat them here.However, the poor monk and the benefactor have been close friends for many years, and they dare not hide their concerns.If Zhong Na said one hundred secrets and one sparse, and lacked thoughtfulness, the benefactor should also bravely present his own opinion in order to resolve the doubts of the inner government... There is no coercion in the letter, nor does it forget to take into account the overall situation. The words are deep and heavy, and the words of advice and remonstrance are sincere and straightforward, which is really difficult to accept.Of course, once people realize that this letter was revised after consulting with Ieyasu, the effect will naturally be greatly reduced.Therefore, the acceptance has been altered several times. "There is quite a legacy of humility, humanity, and boldness. He really deserves to be a man of integrity..." Naoe Yamashiro Kanesuke, who was praised by the Taiko back then, has a stubborn root similar to Ishida Mitsunari.When he was young, he, Nobunaga's Ranmaru, and Ujigo's Nagoya Yamazo were called the three most handsome men.Today, he is a man who is beyond doubt and has read all the vicissitudes of life. Acceptance finished writing it with great pains, and presented the letter to Jiakang.He believes that this is probably the last gleam of warmth that Ieyasu expressed to the Uesugi family, and he can't feel at ease if Ieyasu is not allowed to see it. The main content of the letter is as follows: 1. Is it necessary to build a new city in Shenthornyuan, if it is not to deal with unexpected events? 2. If Jing Sheng has no different intentions, he can come to explain with an affidavit.What is your consideration on this matter? 3. Jing Sheng is honest and upright. Tai Ge praised him endlessly during his lifetime. The inner government is very clear about it. As long as he explains clearly, the previous suspicions can be cleared away. 4. If Hideji Hori's statement is wrong, he should take the initiative to come forward to distinguish right from wrong. 5. The Kaga Maeda clan was not investigated by the Neifu.I don't know if this can be used as a lesson?This matter can be discussed with Masuda, Otani, Shen Yuan and others. Sixth, ask the elders to advise Jing Sheng to go to Beijing quickly. 7. Rumor has it that Aizu's military equipment is unusual.It is rumored that North Korea is also strengthening its combat readiness, and the government has sent envoys to North Korea.If North Korea refuses to compromise, it will send troops to North Korea in the coming year or the year after.The Neifu wants to discuss this matter with Jing Sheng, so please come to Beijing as soon as possible. 8. The rise and fall of the Uesugi family is in one fell swoop, please think twice... Ieyasu finished reading in silence and rolled up the letter. "Is that possible?" Ieyasu nodded: "The writing is upside-down, but it shows your ambition on the contrary. It's amazing. Has the master already seen through Ieyasu's mind?" "Yes...ah, I dare not, I dare not." "Yes, this is Ieyasu's last chance for Zhong Nayan. The master's letter has been written quite clearly. Enjoying a generous salary of 1.2 million shi, if you don't come here immediately when you see a war overseas He is not even worthy of two to three hundred thousand stones! If the salary he enjoys does not match the amount, he will cause disaster to the world." "Yes. If he doesn't go to Beijing quickly, he should really send troops." Ieyasu smiled: "Decision making at the moment is an indispensable magic weapon for those in charge of the world. From this, the capacity of Zhong Nayan and Kanxu is clear at a glance." It was already the first day of April when Ina Book Akizuna and Masuda Nagamori's retainer Kawamura Changmonmori set off from Osaka with the letter of acceptance.On the surface, Kawamura Changmonshou has relatives in the Uesugi family, so it is easier to find out the truth. This is the reason why he was selected as the envoy.But in fact, it is far from that simple.Ieyasu knew very well that Ishida Mitsunari and Naoeyama Castle had secret envoys, but was Masuda Nagamori also involved in this matter?Let Ina Shushu quietly monitor Kawamura's gatekeeper, and the truth will naturally come to light. Masuda Nagamori has left Ieyasu and his cronies to heart.In front of Ieyasu, Changsheng is full of awe-inspiring righteousness, and he seems to be in secret contact with Sancheng, Ukita Hideka, Konishi Yukyochang and others in secret.If you ask him the reason for doing this, he will always answer: "For the sake of the inner government, for the young master, I must understand their movements." But it is obvious that this is his wise way of protecting himself. Once a major event happens, it is really difficult to judge which side he will stand on. "Maybe he is indecisive by nature, and even he himself is not sure. There is really no cure." When Ina Book set off, Ieyasu only said this.But just by this one sentence, the book knows what to do, he is a smart man. The two left Osaka, traveled day and night, and arrived in Aizu on April 13th.Before meeting Uesugi Jingsheng, the two were interviewed by Naoe Yamashiro Kanesuke, and took the opportunity to hand over the letter to Kanesus.Since it was late in the evening when we arrived in Aizu, Ina Shu said: "I will convey the inner government's order to Zhong Na Yan tomorrow, please report to Zhong Na Yan in advance."The gatekeeper of Hecun went to rest at a relative's house, while Inetuwei stayed overnight in the posthouse in the city. Facing the two envoys, Naoe Kentsugu remained calm, but said indifferently: "The Uesugi family has Sensaka Kageko staying in Osaka, and you two didn't have to travel all the way here." He also didn't open the letter of acceptance on the spot.But not long after the two left, he appeared in front of Jing Sheng with a letter. "I heard that the envoys from the Inner Palace have arrived, what did they say?" Jing Sheng asked proactively. Jianxu smiled boldly and replied: "Isn't my lord asking the question knowingly? But you don't have to worry." "So, I have to see them tomorrow?" "Yes, I hope that when the lord receives them, he will strictly reject their request... Please read the letter to accept this bald donkey first." Jianxu unfolded the letter in front of Jing Sheng and laughed loudly. Uesugi Jingsheng does not have the keen insight of his father Kenshin, but he has been influenced by the family tradition for a long time, and his gestures are full of murderous aura.He is not so much bold as he is too conceited. "What a long letter. What an acceptance." Jing Sheng read the letter indifferently. After reading it, he weighed the letter paper again, "I really can't write this letter without using my brain." "I wonder if there is anything that does not suit the Lord's appetite?" "This is no different from the news sent by Ishida Osamu and Masudaemon." "My lord, don't you see them?" "The envoy's oral message is probably the same as the letter's content. I can let them go back, but..." "What are you worried about, my lord?" Jianxuan smiled. "A shrewd person like Neifu still wants to play such a stupid trick to bluff people? How foolish." "Haha, I heard that he also gave birth to a son with Mrs. Agui." "It's strange. Since my father, we Uesugi have never succumbed to coercion. He even forgot this, it's a pity." "Haha," Jianxuan smiled disdainfully again, "My lord's words just now are exactly the same as what Master Jibu incited you to say." "what?" "The Zhibu is trying to confuse us. But that's okay. It's just that the inner government asked Acceptance to write such a letter. What is his intention?" "Then do you know it already? Let's hear it." "The reason is very simple. Maeda Toshinaga has been frightened by the inner government. Therefore, the inner government wants to repeat the same old trick to me, Uesugi, and he asked Acceptance to write it out of luck." "Can you be sure?" Jing Sheng was a little puzzled. Zhijiang Sanshiro's eyes shined and he said confidently: "There will be no mistakes!" "Even if you think so, you can't be wrong." "My lord, please reprimand the emissary severely tomorrow, and drive them out. No matter how much your lord goes too far, Ieyasu will never dare to send troops." "How do you decide?" "Ieyasu wouldn't be so stupid! Once Aizu is attacked, the capital will naturally be empty. How could Mr. Jibu miss such an opportunity? Ieyasu would not have thought of this." "My lord, you must act decisively when you do anything." Naoeyama Castle Guard smiled again, "If my lord can't categorically reprimand Ieyasu's envoy tomorrow, not only will we lose face, but other troubles will follow. We have ruled the Kanto for generations, Lord Kenshin Famous for his bravery, such a famous family begs for mercy on Ieyasu, wouldn’t it make the world ridicule? And tomorrow is an excellent opportunity to show Uesugi’s majesty to the world.” "Will Ieyasu get angry because of this?" "If getting angry can bring benefits, anyone will be furious. But getting angry will only bring him disadvantages. Therefore, we must take this opportunity to scold them well, so as not to be humiliated." The lights in the candlestick dimmed , Jianxu continued to brag about Jing Sheng while stretching out his hand to pull the lamp heart.People who speak big words are often stupid, but when these words spewed out of Kanxu's mouth, they seemed to have a solemn flavor, which is incredible.Because of this eloquence, he was not only praised by Xiuyan, but also received a generous salary. "My lord, you don't have to worry. I'm going to write a long book to tease Acceptance and that old fox Ieyasu, lest he keep sending some rude people..." "I see. Just do as you say." "This is the best. We have just moved to Xinling, and all we can do is scold and beat us up. What a pity!" "Our territory has not yet been prepared." "If there are many years of old collars, maybe we can use the government to seize the world." "did you mean……" "Just talking casually. If Jibu is smarter or duller, things will be more interesting... That's another matter. There is only one thing that the Lord needs to do right now." Kansaku said while playing with the letter in his hand.In his eyes, Ieyasu doesn't seem so scary, as long as Sancheng, Changsheng and others pass the news to him, Ieyasu is just a soft persimmon not worth mentioning. That night, the two chatted and laughed for a long time before taking their leave.It was Sishi the next day when Jing Sheng received the envoy. Ina Shushu brought Kawamura Chief Gatekeeper to the main hall of the city to meet Jing Sheng. He preached Ieyasu's oral instruction from above: "I heard that the Uesugi family is ready to fight to the death, which has caused a lot of discussion in the world. What is the reason? You betrayed the Taiko, It's really sad. How dare you ignore Taige's legacy? I hope you change your original intention and enter Osaka early." Jing Sheng narrowed his eyes and listened happily. In fact, not all Uesugis are as tough as Naoe Kanetsugu.Qiansaka Jingqin, who stayed in Osaka, once said to Jing Sheng: Deliberately angering Ieyasu may bring disaster to the Uesugi family, so whether it is building a new city or hiring wandering samurai, don't make too much publicity... In order to tell Toyotomi Hideyori's veteran minister Fujita Noto Moriichi and others who went to Osaka Castle in the New Year also remonstrated: If you are tough on Ieyasu, sooner or later you will ruin Uesugi's fortune.He was so angry that he never returned to Aizu.But because Jing Sheng has a lot of trust in Jian Xu and obeys his words, other people's opinions are turned a deaf ear. After the envoy finished pronouncing the oral order, Jing Sheng asked with a smile, "Is that all?" "The Neifu wants your lord to go to Osaka as soon as possible, and I will wait for your reply!" Naturally, Ina Shushu refused to show weakness. "I don't need to write to the inner government. Listen." "I'm all ears." "I don't have the slightest intention of rebellion in my heart!" Jing Sheng raised his head and emphasized his tone, "Uesugi Jingsheng has received the kindness of Fengchen, how could he have the heart of betrayal? I can't accept anything you said this time. What I said Everything I do is very necessary, so why do idlers make groundless accusations? This is pure misunderstanding and slander! I hope the inner government will find out the slanderer first. Before I know the truth, I will not go to Daban anyway!" , Jing Sheng paused, wanting to see the envoy's reaction. People tend to be self-indulgent when they are impassioned, and the more intoxicated they are, the less they want to cater to the other party. After a few words, Jing Sheng concluded more severely: "Even if he went to Osaka, Uesugi Jingsheng would not bow to the inner government. Your Excellency, go back here." It’s enough to convey my wishes.” This is simply an ultimatum that cannot be accommodated.Those who didn't know heard this and thought that he had forgotten himself and was completely intoxicated by his aura, perhaps because he wanted to voluntarily give up his position as the elder.He won't bow to Ieyasu, which means that as long as Ieyasu is around, he doesn't even care about Hideyori, and there is absolutely no room for compromise. Ina Shushu quickly glanced at Kawamura's gatekeeper.He reckoned that Jing Sheng's answer should have been expected by the gatekeeper of He Village, who stayed at a relative's house for a night.Sure enough, Nagato lowered his head and hurriedly avoided Shushu's sight.It seems that Jing Sheng's refusal to compromise with Ieyasu is well known in the Uesugi family.The book then said: "I already understand the meaning of Zhongnayan very well. After I go back, I will truthfully convey the meaning of your lordship to the Neifu." "Okay, other than that, I have nothing to say. It's hard work coming from afar. Mountain city, good hospitality, and then send them back." Jianxuan's expression was stiff, and he bowed reluctantly, "Shancheng has a reply letter, I hope you can pass it on to the abbot of Fengguang Temple for me. Thank you for your help." Shancheng did not finish his words, and Jing Sheng had already walked away. Did the inner government misunderstand Uesugi Jingsheng?Ina book is very puzzled.After hearing Jing Sheng's words, it is not difficult to imagine the content of Naoe Kanesuke's letter.Even if Kanezuri apologized for his master's rudeness in his reply letter to the acceptance, it cannot be said that Uesugi was not hostile. "Your Excellency, you must not take it lightly. The Uesugi family has always supported Echigo and respected themselves, and they don't even care about the world." If you don't report it like this, Ieyasu may miscalculate.Although Ieyasu had already known about Sancheng's treachery, he never expected that Uesugi Jingsheng would dare to be so rude.It was precisely to test Jing Sheng's strength that Ieyasu did not act with great fanfare before. Carrying the letter of reply to the acceptance, the two rushed back to Osaka day and night.When the reply letter was opened, besides acceptance, Ieyasu and Honda Masanobu were present. The first thing that catches the eye is this sentence: "The rise and fall of the Uesugi family is based on one action, please think twice..." Isn't this the sentence that Acceptance racked his brains to write? Everyone is staring at the acceptance, and Ina Books is no exception.After reading a few lines, Cheng Cheng's face turned red, his hands kept shaking, and his face and lips convulsed continuously, which was unbearable to see.Acceptance is rarely so embarrassing. When he read out the canonization letter of the Ming envoy in front of Hideyoshi, when he read the sentence "I am the king of Japan", his reaction was the same as today.Surprisingly, Ieyasu and Honda Masanobu were not very surprised. Acceptance took a quarter of an hour to finally read the letter, and then silently handed it over to Ieyasu.While accepting the letter, Ieyasu neither laughed nor asked any questions. "The tone doesn't seem serious." Ieyasu put on the glasses - which were given to him by Shiro Jiro from the tea house in the first lunar month of this year, and leaned on the table to open the letter.It's no wonder that Acceptance Council's face changed drastically. Zhijiang Shancheng Shou Jianxuan's letter was very rude from the beginning, almost all ridiculed, completely treating Acceptance as an ignorant child. "About my leader, there are indeed many rumors in the world, which have aroused suspicion in the inner court. It is not surprising. Before Taige was alive, there were constant rumors between the capital and Fushimi. What's more, Aizu is located in a remote place, and my lord is a junior. Master It's too much to worry about..." Since the lord who is six years older than himself is said to be a junior, what will he take acceptance for?Out of many years of friendship, Cheng Cheng went to great lengths to write him that letter, but he ridiculed Cheng Cheng as a dog biting a mouse, how arrogant he is! Ieyasu smiled and said, "Master Abbot, this is not a letter to you. He knew that I would also read this letter so he deliberately wrote it like this. Master, don't worry about it." After finishing speaking, he continued to read happily. Ina Shushu secretly glanced at Ieyasu from time to time, and he was quite puzzled by Ieyasu's tranquility.He thought that Ieyasu would be furious when he read this letter.But instead of being annoyed, Ieyasu smiled from time to time, and even shook his head, reading with relish. After reading it, Ieyasu put the letter on the table and said to Honda, "Sado Mamoru, it seems that Naoe Sanshiro is an extraordinary person, quick thinking and clear organization." "Ah?" Without waiting for Honda Sado's response, the pale and trembling Acceptance stretched his neck, "Such rude words, the Inner Palace... still praise you?" Ieyasu nodded slowly: "It is indeed very rude. Ieyasu has never read such a rude letter in his life." "That's right. The poor monk read halfway through and wanted to tear it up." Jiakang ignored the acceptance, but continued to Zhengxin: "There are a few points in the letter: first, don't let Fengguang Temple worry about it. Second, Jing Sheng entered Beijing immediately after changing his territory the year before last. It is easy to go back, and he is asked to go to Beijing again, for fear of delaying the political affairs of the ability. Even handling the government affairs of the ability is considered to be different, and it is really unreasonable." "That makes sense." Honda Zhengshin echoed with a strange expression, "So, he thinks the adults are deliberately making things difficult for him?" "Exactly." Jiakang nodded lightly, "Thirdly, the letter said that Jing Sheng was tired of writing oaths, no matter how much he wrote, no one would believe him, so he didn't want to write. In addition, since Taige, Jing Sheng He is famous for his honesty and integrity, and there has been no change so far. These are different from ordinary men." "Haha, ordinary man, he refers to you, my lord?" "Perhaps. He also said that Jing Sheng's dissenting intentions and so on are purely deliberate slander. I just listened to the slander, but didn't find out the truth. It's really unfair. The more exciting things are yet to come, Sado. He Gritting his teeth, he satirized me and said, "The matter of Kaga Hizenmoru can be resolved smoothly, I am really majestic. He also said that Masuda, Otani and others, he will contact them if there is something to do. As for Kanbara and Honda Sado, there is no need." "He can't even trust me?" "Of course. He said, you will only believe Hori Hideji's one-sided words, completely misleading me Tokugawa Ieyasu. Are you Tokugawa's loyal ministers or sycophants? Let me think about it. Sado, are you Tokugawa's sycophants or loyal ministers?" Ieyasu joked. Honda Sado scratched his temples, and smiled wryly: "Since we are waiting for you, a lord of such stamina, I am overshadowed." Ieyasu smiled and threw the letter to Zhengxin: "You'd better read it too, it must be helpful to you." Zhengxin picked it up, read it respectfully, and then passed it on to Ina Shushu. When I opened the letter, I couldn't help but feel stiff all over.It was the first time he had seen such a bold, unabashed letter.Kanesuke, who calls his lord a "junior", doesn't take Ieyasu seriously at all.The letter stated that the delay in entering Beijing was entirely due to military preparations.The samurai in the capital are now fascinated by famous things such as porcelain, while the samurai in the country are preparing guns, bows and arrows.This must be due to different customs and different customs.He also asked, according to Uesugi's strength, what kind of armament should Jing Sheng possess?If you are even afraid of the armaments that the Uesugi purchased to match your status, you are really petty.Whether it is building roads or building bridges, it is only a step in military preparations. As for sending troops to North Korea in the next year or the year after, who will believe it?It's ridiculous. What made the book even more astonishing was the words at the end of the letter: "There is no need to argue, my lord has absolutely no intention of betrayal. If he does not go to Beijing, it is completely hindered by someone. Only when the inner government thoroughly investigates can it be done. Even if it is To betray Taige's last words, to tear up the oath, to abandon the young master, and even to turn against the inner government and seize the world, so what, it is also difficult to get rid of the infamy. After being Kenshin, how can he bear this humiliation? Uesugi knows very well The shame of rebellion will never be so stupid, please don't worry. However, if the inner government listens to the slander and has bad intentions, it doesn't matter if you tear up the oath..." Books feel like they are suffocating.Ieyasu once said that it is necessary to measure Naoe Sanshiro's ability, but this letter seems to be Naoe Sanshiro testing Ieyasu's ability.This letter refuted the acceptance one by one.The letter of acceptance was protracted and lengthy, but the continuation was full of joy. As long as they thought it was reasonable, they even did not hesitate to make enemies with Ieyasu. There was no way for the two to communicate.The book rolled up the letter, and couldn't help but want to ask Ieyasu what he meant. Ieyasu's expression was still very calm, perhaps he had expected the other party's reply in this way.After receiving the letter, he said to Honda, "Sado, has Naoe Sanjo seen through my thoughts?" Shushu was taken aback, and Acceptance was even more horrified. He let out an "ah" and stretched his neck like a child who was at a loss.Hearing Cheng Dui's exclamation, Jiakang shifted his eyes to his face: "I mean, did Shancheng see through my thoughts, or did he write like this without knowing anything?" Acceptance was even more puzzled: "What can I do if I have understood the inner government's mind?" "That shows that he is really an admirable man of great ability! Only for Uesugi, he has become a disloyal minister. His ability is greater than Jing Sheng." Without waiting for acceptance to reply, Shushu first asked: "My lord, what do you mean?" Ieyasu clicked his tongue, glanced at Zhengxin, "Zhengxin, tell the book." Masanobu smiled all over his face. It seemed that he was the only one who understood Ieyasu's meaning. "Yes, it's just that my understanding may not be correct..." "Books are younger than you. Say what you think." "Obey!" Zhengxin turned to Shushu, "Your Excellency has already made up his mind." "What determination?" "Fight Uesugi." Masanobu lowered his voice, and quickly glanced at Ieyasu.If he said something wrong, Ieyasu would speak up.But Ieyasu just admired the scenery in the courtyard silently.Zhengxin continued: "If the other party sees that the adults have made up their minds, they will understand that all reasons and explanations are useless. They have only two options. They can either apologize and submit obediently; or rise up and resist and confront each other with swords." He lowered his head, obviously considering more serious words. "Under such circumstances, they acted as if they were enemies with us, indicating that they had two considerations: first, they joined forces with Jibu and others to challenge us; second, they deliberately pretended to be with us. For the enemy, secretly help adults make up their minds..." "Please forgive the impolite monk for being rude," Cheng Dui suddenly interjected, "Naoe Kanesuke is so rude that he wants to secretly help the lord of the inner court? How is it possible?" Zhengxin quickly glanced at Ieyasu again.He must have wanted Ieyasu to answer.The matter is important, and he is just guessing.But Ieyasu didn't say a word, still squinting, gazing leisurely at the late spring sunshine outside the courtyard. "Master, this is completely random guesswork by this old man. If I am wrong, I am afraid that I will be reprimanded by my lord... Your lord has decided not to forgive Uesugi, and will send troops out of Osaka Castle on purpose in the name of attacking Uesugi, in order to lure the governor... ...This is just the old man's speculation. If Naoe Kentsugu sees it through, he will pretend to be an enemy of the lord, anger the inner government, and let the lord send troops. In this way, the government will definitely fall into the trap." After Zheng Xin finished speaking calmly, both the book and the acceptance heaved a sigh of relief: "It makes sense, so the city guard of Zhijiang Mountain becomes the assistant of the adults." "Don't be too happy, Shu." Ieyasu reprimanded suddenly, but still looked outside, "Don't open your mouth until you have heard Sado's last words." Zhengxin lowered his head in embarrassment.Like Guangxiu, he has traveled all over the world, and he knows that speaking freely may bring him danger at any time.Therefore, he is reluctant to talk about big things on this occasion.Once you talk about Naka Ieyasu's mind, it may lead to suspicion; but if you can't see Ieyasu's mind, the meeting cannot proceed.This is not without precedent. Mr. Nobunaga kept claiming that Hanbei Takenaka was a strategic talent, but in the end he was not promoted to daimyo... "My lord also doubts whether Jing Sheng has a lot of talent." "Yes." Accepted. "If Naoe Yamashiro understands the heart of the lord, for the sake of the world, he wants to help the lord quietly, and after careful consideration, he writes such an arrogant and rude letter in order to create an excuse for the lord to attack Uesugi. If this is the case, he is really a rare person with great power... But it may also be just our wishful thinking. Maybe he is full of anger, and he is friends with us on the surface, and will stop us after luring us to Ozhou. " "rational." "That's why adults doubt whether Shancheng really understands his mind." "Brilliant!" "I don't know the truth, so I dare not make judgments. I can only say this." "My lord means..." "Whether Uesugi wants to help the Lord, or just wants to fight us to the death, Aizu will never be safe. As long as Jing Sheng refuses to come to Osaka, he is disobeying the order of the regent minister. He cannot escape this crime no matter what." "good……" "Therefore, the phrase 'Uesugi's rise and fall depends on one action' written in the master's letter is not unreasonable. Even if there is no decisive battle, if you order the Lord to send troops, it will cost him at least a million stones. He paid a million stones The price is only to show off the power of words. In this way, the city guard of Zhijiang Mountain cannot be called a loyal minister...My lord, I have exhausted my words." Zhengxin nodded to Jiakang. Ieyasu smiled with anger: "Sado, you are so shameless." What Honda believes in is all about Naka Ieyasu's thoughts.家康甚至有些后悔——不该让正信开口，倒不用担心伊奈图书，可丰光寺承兑却不能令人放心，虽说他如今也心向德川，可他却与三成众知己多有往来。此事一旦被他泄露，自有无尽麻烦。 家康只好矢口否认：“佐渡，你还是纸上谈兵。战事，诡道也。以少胜多，不胜枚举。即使我奉少君之令出兵，也未必就能取胜。” "yes." “你知我是如何小心翼翼才走到今日吗？其中苦难，你绝想不到。你的话真令我汗毛倒竖。” "Feel sorry." “用不着愧疚，但大事当前，当慎之又慎啊。”家康这话是想说给承兑听，“接到如此无礼的书函，却对其坐视不理，天下规矩就乱了。因此，必须讨伐上杉家！山城那厮早就看出来，若景胜不来大坂，我必然出兵讨伐。他深知这些，却胆敢向我挑衅。” "My lord knows." “话虽如此，但战事却不能随意发动。既要进攻上杉，又要避免与治部冲突，这便是我希望丰光寺大师和佐渡仔细思量之事。你们不会看不出来，我若攻到会津，正与上杉决战时，而治部挥兵大坂城，结局将会如何？那时我欲进不能，欲退不行，一生不就完了？”正信似明白了家康说这些的意图。 “正信的一番话完全是痴人说梦，事情哪有这么简单？当前最重要的，应是不惜手段，避免激怒治部。” “是。当前最重要的，乃是集中力量，全力讨伐上杉。看来，此次我不亲自临阵指挥是不行了。”家康扭着脸道，“我一生还从未看到过如此无礼的书函……真是愈想愈怒。这是兼续的小伎俩，我绝不会放过他！” 出兵讨伐一事已成定局。当然，真正的敌人究竟是名门上杉氏，还是新近崛起的石田三成，尚未分明……