Chapter 2 Chapter 2 Ieyasu Goes East

When Hashiba Hideyoshi of Honkokuji handed over the affidavit to the Hosokawa father and son and Tsutsui Junkei, Tokugawa Ieyasu was also heading east without stopping.On the ninth day of the seventh month of the tenth year of Tianzheng, Ieyasu arrived in Kofu. Ieyasu's approach was completely opposite to that of Hashiba Hideyoshi. He stayed with his children for about ten days from the end of June when he returned to Hamamatsu City to the third day of July.Even the people around were confused, unable to figure out what the lord was thinking.Of course, Ieyasu did not waste these extremely important ten days in vain. In fact, he was patiently waiting for the response from the two prefectures of A and Shin, and for the news of the scouts who had been sent to Ashin when Owari dispatched troops.

Ieyasu believes that the most important thing is how the people of Koshin view Nobunaga's death.Since these two places are the territory of Kai Genji, the people certainly do not welcome Nobunaga's tough policy, but to what extent do they feel disgusted with Nobunaga?Only by knowing the real reaction of the world can we make correct decisions. Ieyasu first extended his tentacles to Kofu on the sixth day after Nobunaga's death, that is, the seventh day of June after Ieyasu fled back to Okazaki from Sakai Port in embarrassment.He sent Honda Hyakusuke Nobutoshi and Nakura Kihachiro Nobumitsu.On the surface, the mission of the two is to greet Kofu Castle Dai Kawajiri Hizen Morishutaka.

"Hakusuke, this mission is not ordinary, you must risk your life." When Ieyasu said this, Baisuke was very puzzled and did not answer for a long time.Baizhu couldn't guess what kind of medicine was sold in Ieyasu's gourd. "All your actions will determine whether Koshu will become Tokugawa's friend or enemy. I sent you, and I don't want you to turn them into enemies. You have to use your brain, think carefully, and see how to make them Be friends. I want you to risk your life to do this." When Baizhu heard this, his face was sullen. "For the sake of the lord, Baizhu has never cherished his life. Why did your lord beat around the bush and not give orders directly?"

"Confused!" Ieyasu smiled wryly, "I don't know the other party's popularity and movements, so how can I tell you? I think you are a person who can't make mistakes without my orders, so I sent you." Baisuke scratched his head embarrassingly. "Yeah, why am I asking such a stupid question? So bye..." Momosuke started from Okazaki, and as soon as he arrived in Kofu, he secretly investigated Kawajiri Hidetaka's popularity, and found that Hidetaka's popularity was far worse than he expected.Because Nobunaga once ruthlessly burned down Shingen's Bodhi Temple and Huilin Temple, and found all the remnants of Takeda and tortured them severely, people's evaluation of Nobunaga is naturally poor.The Shiro Dai Xiulong who was sent later went even further, still using weapons to severely suppress the people.After Baizhu made a clear investigation, he went to the city to visit Xiulong on the tenth day of June.

There is no wind in the Kofu Valley, and it is as hot as a steamer.This is the first time Honda Hyakusuke and Kawajiri Hidetaka, the Kofu Castle representative of the Oda family, met. When Baisuke was ushered into the guest room, he recalled Ieyasu's instructions again. The most disgusting thing about Xiulong is that he turned his back on his word and didn't keep his promise. After entering the city, he just issued three chapters of the circular, and then he refused to admit it in a blink of an eye.The text of his announcement reads: 〖This time, Koshu has come under the jurisdiction of Nobunaga, and the retainer Kawajiri Hizen Morishutaka was appointed as the castle representative.The Honjodai decided that all Takeda samurai hiding in various townships and villages in the country should immediately pay homage to Nishikicho, the residence of Hizen Shoufu.All those who come to visit will be issued a seal confirming the old collar.announce. 〗

As soon as the announcement was posted, there was an endless stream of people who came to Nishiki Town to sign up.Everyone thought the notice meant to let the past go, and the previous territories could continue to be owned.People praised Xiulong, not only believing it was true, but even running around to tell each other, so that their retainers and confidants also went to pay their respects.However, later there were rumors that when these people entered Xiulong's gate, no matter how old or young they were, they were taken to the backyard one by one and killed. "You little turtles, I fished you out with a little trick. I really want to save your life?" He laughed out loud at this.

"That evil ghost Xiulong, why don't you let him go back alive?" "This time Lord Nobunaga was killed, it can be seen that Xiulong's evil spirit is also exhausted. Just watch, someone will come to clean up the sins of the evil spirit." It can be inferred from folk reviews that Xiulong must be cruel and mean, and difficult to get close to.So, how will he greet me Baizhu? After waiting for about half an hour, Hidetaka finally showed up, showing his utmost hospitality to Baisuke, but of course, the purpose was just to spy on Ieyasu. "Facing such an unexpected turn of events, Xiulong was at a loss, not knowing where to go. I don't know what vision Ieyasu has?"

I didn't expect Xiulong to speak so humbly, which surprised Baizhu deeply.He told the news that Jiakang had led his troops from Antu to the capital. "Ah, I really envy you. In this way, the foundation that Youfu has been operating for many years will be saved." "My lord sent me this time to greet Hizen Mori-sama." Seeing the other party's humble attitude, Baisuke secretly breathed a sigh of relief and bowed deeply.At this time, he was already profusely sweating. "After this unforeseen turmoil, I think Hizen-sama will immediately withdraw to the capital to participate in the decisive battle against the rebellion. However, the Shinano Avenue has been blocked, so you can go west through the Sanhe Territory. This time, my lord sent me Come here to discuss this matter with the adults in detail."

Hearing Baisuke's words, Xiulong gave a respectful salute, and an embarrassed smile appeared on the corner of his mouth.In fact, when he asked them to wait just now, he had already thought about them in the crack of the door. "Oh, is that what Ieyasu-kun said?" Xiulong said as if nothing had happened, and quickly suppressed his smile. Xiulong wanted to take Nobunaga as his standard, but he couldn't penetrate the true essence of Nobunaga, so he was very distressed.Even though he can perfectly imitate Nobunaga's harsh side, he still can't understand the essence of Nobunaga's ideal.

"Oh, that's what Ieyasu-kun said?" Xiulong repeated, with a calm attitude, but actually full of anger.He believes that Honda Hyakusuke and Nakura Kihachiro may be the assassins sent by Ieyasu.Even Nobunaga looked at Ieyasu differently, but in Xiulong's eyes, he was a sinister and cunning person. People's views are really different. "So, when Lord Ieyasu made an emergency march to Antu, he took a break from his busy schedule and thought about Xiulong?" "Exactly." The honest and reckless emissary replied, "Even if the rebels on both sides are captured, if the east side is still fragmented, isn't it still against the wishes of the late Lord Youfu? Therefore, the lord immediately sent me to wait here .”

"Thank you very much. Come here, get some cold water for the two of you first, and quickly prepare the food and drinks. I want to learn about the dynamics of the world since the catastrophe from the two of you, and then decide the route to the west." Xiulong said Ordering the waiter to prepare the banquet immediately, he continued: "It is said that Xueshan Meixue was assassinated by someone on the way back with Duke Kang..." "There is such a thing. It is in consideration of this that my lord sent me to the embassy." "Hehe, it seems that Lord Ieyasu has a lot to do with Anayama's assassination." "Exactly." Hyakusuke replied with his head held high. "My lord introduced Anayama, who has a close relationship with the Takeda family, to the Ufu for the sake of Antai after Kai. My lord persuaded Anayama to go the same way and withdraw from Sakai Port. Anayama But I couldn't listen to it... From my guess, I must have suspected my lord, so I rejected the lord's invitation, but was attacked by mobs on the way, and lost my life in vain." Kawajiri Hidetaka nodded, and a sly smile appeared on the corner of his mouth again: Stupid thing, don't ask yourself, obediently let me out of Ieyasu's secret. "Oh, how could such a thing happen!" After the food and drink were served, Xiulong showed great hospitality and served Baisuke and Kihachiro himself. "Because of the lessons learned from the past, your master wanted to persuade me to pass through your territory, so I sent you here to guard by my side, is that right?" Baisuke nodded proudly. "In any case, it is my lord's greatest wish not to let Ko Prefecture get involved in the chaos of war. If you have the two of us guarding you to the death, you can sit back and relax. However, after Hizen's Western Expedition, how to maintain order in Ko Prefecture is up to you. Have a good plan?" "The implication of the two is that after I set off, will this place be in chaos immediately?" "Exactly." Baisuke still answered straightforwardly.He has only integrity, no strategy at all, and never doubts others.He believes that Kawajiri Hidetaka is as straightforward as him and trusts Ieyasu as much as he does.Therefore, he neither concealed the slightest nor knew how to respond flexibly. What he had was just the stubbornness of the Samurai warrior. "Because your lord has just taken office, the people in the leadership are still very afraid of you, and you can't be sloppy. Of course, there are still many Takeda remnants in various places. Jiafu, if this happens, the painstaking efforts of Lord Youfu will be in vain. This is what my lord is worried about." After Kawajiri Hidetaka heard this, the brows could not help trembling.He firmly believes that he has figured out Ieyasu's mind: first deceive him Xiulong with sweet words, then drive the army into Kofu, and then lure him into his territory to get rid of him. People can't get out of the cocoon of their own thoughts.In this sense, Baisuke and Shulong are no different.One is too trusting, the other is too suspicious, but neither of them realizes this. Baisuke wiped his sweat. "Before coming here, my lord has repeatedly told me to protect my lord even if I risk my life. If your lord has any good prescription, Baizhu is willing to do the same." "I'm very moved by your heroic spirit. But anyway, this is a very unexpected event. I'm afraid it will be difficult for me to make a decision right now..." Xiulong was deliberately cautious and vague, "Ieyasu, what good advice can you give?" "No." Baisuke was still like a child, telling the truth, "My lord asked me to discuss with Hizenshou carefully before making a decision... My lord also said that I was sent here because I thought I was competent... " Xiulong put down his wine glass and folded his arms.What kind of consideration did the cunning Ieyasu have to make Baisuke say such a thing?Ieyasu must have thought that since the big tree of Nobunaga had fallen, I, Hidetaka, would definitely abandon the city and flee.Otherwise, it would be inconvenient for Ieyasu to meddle in the affairs of Kofu all day long, otherwise I would be criticized, so he took this opportunity to lure me to his territory skillfully... Xiulong still thinks about his own life and death. "Hondo..." "Did Hizen Mamoru come up with a clever plan?" "This matter is indeed as you said, it is related to the life and death of both parties." "It's not only about us, it's about the welfare of all the citizens and the great cause of Lord Youfu." "It makes sense! It seems that I still haven't thought it through... Can you give me two or three days, let me think carefully. The two of you should also think about it and see if there is any good countermeasure." When saying these words, Xiulong had already made plans.After that, he only had a few drinks with the two before leaving.Kawajiri Hidetaka had only two thousand troops at this time.However, when his backer Nobunaga fell, the hearts of the 2,000-man army were shaken, and they all planned for themselves, and immediately fell apart. Xiulong didn't seem to have a real understanding of this.He has made up his mind: No matter what, he must unite the army and crush Ieyasu's conspiracy. In Xiulong's mind, Ieyasu's intentions became clearer and clearer.Therefore, there are only two ways in front of him: Either kill Honda Hyakusuke and Nakura Kihachiro, and give up Nishigami; or take decisive action and withdraw from Shinshu Road to Mino.I can't be as stupid as Anayama!Xiulong has always insisted that Meixue Anayama trusted Ieyasu too much, and was killed by Ieyasu. On the thirteenth day, when Mitsuhide was wiped out, Hidetaka sent envoys to Honda Hyakusuke and Kihachiro's subordinates. "So far, there is still no good strategy. Therefore, first entrust the city to the two, and ask the Tokugawa army to help guard the city. Of course, I will follow Ieyasu's instructions and go west through your territory to participate in the lord's revenge. In addition, I want to explain the specifics of the handover of Kofu face to face tomorrow, so I invite you two to come for an interview." However, on this day, a ronin quietly visited Jisuiji Temple, where Honda Hyakusuke and Kihachiro lived.Jicui Temple is located at the source of Xiangchuan and Zhuochuan, and it is an important point.Previously, the mountain castle of the Takeda clan was built here, and in the first year of Daiei (1521), the Suruga Imagawa clan launched a rebellion. It is said that Shingen's mother hid here and gave birth to Shingen.Therefore, this place is very related to the Takeda family.The two met the ronin in the main hall. "It happened for a reason, please forgive me for not being able to tell the two of you my surname. In short, the two adults regard me as a villager who has a deep grudge with Kawajiri Hizenmoru." After a simple opening speech, Ronin explained the purpose of his visit.It turned out that Xiulong was plotting to assassinate the two in Kofu, Ronin told them to be extra careful.His main purpose was not to come to inform the assassination plot, but to inform that he wanted to lead the villagers to launch a riot and attack Kawajiri Hizen Mamoru, and hoped that the two would not intervene in this matter. "We definitely don't want to fight against Lord Tokugawa, but we just don't want Kawajiri Hizen, who is hated by the people, to leave here safely." The two kept these words in their hearts, and sent the ronin back. "I think this matter is a bit troublesome." Nakura Kihachiro became cautious, "Honta, I think it's better not to see Hidetaka tomorrow." "No, that's not right." Hyakusuke shook his head lightly, "If we listen to Ronin's one-sided words and don't go to the city, what if what he said is false? It's tantamount to abandoning Kawajiri. The fellows of the villagers. Are we still worthy of being warriors?" "But... if we go, doesn't it mean that we die in vain?" "Don't talk about it. How could we die in vain? If Hidetaka kills us and escapes by himself, it will arouse even more anger from the villagers towards Kawajiri. Kawajiri can't do such a stupid thing. Don't doubt others casually. You and I should go to the banquet as promised." Baisuke never listened to Kihachiro's words.This is the stubbornness of the Mihe warriors.He didn't want to go against Ieyasu's entrustment at all, and he still stubbornly believed that Xiulong was an upright man just like him. "Did you forget that the lord has repeatedly told me that the safety of Kai depends on you and me, so we have to risk our lives and not be afraid of death. Therefore, I will never take a half step back, even if it is true I will not hesitate to fall into Kawajiri's trap! We should impress each other with our fiery true feelings, so that Kawajiri-sama can retreat completely, and prevent Kofu from falling into turmoil." Baizhu was impassioned.Nakura Kihachiro shook his head stubbornly. "In that case, I won't stop you, you can go if you want!" "So you don't seem to be going?" "Why should I go?" Kihachiro said with a bit of anger, "We come together, it doesn't mean that we have to be tied together. You can go alone. If you have any problems, I can take care of them." "Okay, just go. It's just that I'm going. If everything is fine, let's see how you explain to me?" "If everything is going well," Kihachiro pointed to his forehead, unequivocally, "Just punch me here." "Okay, you wait. My Baisuke's fist is not vegetarian." The atmosphere of this conversation is very different from the debate between Hideyoshi's Hatakemoto generals. There is a sense of comicality, and they are so stubborn that they can't help reminiscent of fierce watchdogs. The second day, the fourteenth.At this time, Mitsuhide had already died in Ogurisu, but Honda Hyakusuke knew nothing about it.He left Jicui Temple and went to Kofu City alone.He had only twelve or thirteen attendants with him, and when he reached the gate, he left them all behind.Being led in front of Hidetaka, Hyakusuke smiled boldly: "Actually, I came here this time to make a bet with Kihachiro Nakura." "what?" "Kihachiro said that he heard the rumors that his lord deliberately set up a trap to kill me, so he refused to go with me." When Kawajiri Hidetaka heard this, he was in a panic. "It's really unreasonable, nonsense! I clearly want to hand over this city sincerely, and then go west through Lord Iekang's territory... If I kill the two, can I still pass through your leader?" "Hahaha... don't be angry, Kihachiro is just suspicious. Although suspicion sometimes brings troubles, but you really shouldn't be careless. That's why the lord sent the two of us here..." Honda Hyakusuke still wants to work hard to convey Ieyasu's sincerity and impress the other party with his true feelings, "We two made a bet. I will negotiate all matters on behalf of the lord and your lord. If I can return to Jicui Temple safely, I will Just give Kihachiro a fist on the forehead." Kawajiri Hidetaka couldn't help laughing.Even so, he still tried his best to dig out something from Baizhu's words. "The bet you two made was really interesting. It seems that Nakura will have to suffer this time. Where did you hear the so-called rumors?" "It was told to me by a ronin plotting to cause trouble." Baisuke became more relieved, and took a step forward with a smile. When Xiulong heard this, his face turned pale with shock. "Did that man tell you that his name is Yaichiro Mitsui?" "This... I didn't ask that person's name... Who is Mitsui?" Baisuke didn't seem to take it seriously, and said, "If you only listen to the rumors of that rogue, and suspect Kawajiri-sama, who even my lord believes in, wouldn't it be against my lord's original intention? So, what do I even call that person?" He was sent away without asking his name." "Oh, actually, this Mitsui Yaichiro is also called Juemon. He used to serve Yamagata Saburobei Masakae. He is a gossip guy. He has a dark complexion, high cheekbones, and sharp eyes..." "Yes! That ronin is indeed a thin man with sharp eyes." "It must be Mitsui Yaichiro." Hidetaka said while thinking, it seemed that he had to change his plan. The more open and aboveboard Baeksuke was, the more cautious Hidetaka was.Although Xiulong was already aware of the villagers' uprising, he did not expect Baizhu to speak so clearly in front of him, which is enough to show that they had reached a conspiracy with the villagers, so they had no fear.If this is the case, of course Kihachiro Nakura will not come.They must have discussed long ago that Baisuke would stay in the city to deal with Xiulong, while Kihachiro would lead the uprising outside the city.The strategy of luring the two of them into the city to get rid of them was about to fail, so we had to use the second strategy. Xiulong clapped his hands and called the attendant over. "Hurry up and serve the food and drink. Everyone is here to accompany you today. This is also our last banquet in this city. Today, the city must be handed over to Lord Tokugawa, and then I will rush to the capital to join the battle against the rebellion .Are you right, Honda-sama?" After hearing this, Baisuke was so moved that he patted his thigh. "Master Kawajiri, if you can do this, then I really did not come in vain this time. Before leaving, my lord repeatedly asked me to treat each other with sincerity...Hakusuke Nobutoshi saluted you." "You are too far-fetched, I should salute you. Come on, cheers! Didn't Nakura Kihachiro say that I want to harm you two? To show my sincerity, please see if there is any poison in the wine." Xiulong picked up After drinking a glass of wine, he poured it for Baizhu, "After I leave, where do you plan to let the troops be stationed in this city first?" "This...according to the orders of Yoda Nobubo and Honda Masanobu, the people from Anayama will arrive soon." "The men and horses in Xueshan?" "Yes. But don't worry, my lord. The people of Kofu will never hate my lord. They have been praying that there will be no riots... Even the common people hate chaos. The villagers can't be against us." "Haha, so to speak, the late Lord Youfu and I are both disgusting, good people let Jia Kanggong do it..." Xiulong immediately changed the subject, "Ah, this is our last banquet here, My lord and my retainers should also have a few more drinks." He seemed to deliberately want to get Baisuke drunk before thinking about countermeasures. In the world, nothing can reflect the temperament of a general better than the atmosphere of soldiers.Since his birth, Oda Nobunaga has been a genius who likes to surprise people and has repeatedly succeeded.However, if those retainers who are much inferior to Nobunaga in terms of magnanimity are also obsessed with this and follow the same path, what will happen? Hideyoshi is a talent who has fully absorbed Nobunaga's strengths and learned and used them flexibly. His aura is in full swing, but if others want to imitate Nobunaga, they are destined to end in tragedy.Mitsuhide raised his troops to rebel, and was unknowingly influenced by Nobunaga, and Kawajiri Hizen Mamoru seemed to regard himself as Nobunaga.This is a manifestation of the strong influence of Nobunaga's spirit among his subordinates. Of course, Baisuke's stubbornness and simplicity also reflect Ieyasu's side. "For the peace of the common people", Ieyasu insists on this wish in everything, and Honda Hyakusuke's actions are all "for the sake of the lord".Every time Baisuke raised his glass, he kept praising Ieyasu, showing his admiration for the lord.His integrity is sometimes even a little repulsive. "My master is the only one who can inherit the lofty ambitions of the late Lord Youfu." He even asserted without hesitation, "Lord Youfu's lifelong wish is to end the troubled times since the Yingren Rebellion. This kind of ambition to end the troubled times is completely different from the arrogant ambition to conquer the world. This is a kind of benevolent heart that corrects the true colors of warriors and goes all out to protect the common people... My lord has completely inherited this kindness." While Xiulong answered vaguely, he kept persuading Baizhu to drink.The banquet lasted until around Haishi. Hearing the bell, Momosuke lazily stood up.Regarding the handover of Kofu Castle, Yin Xiulong agreed with almost no objection, and Momosuke was in a good mood. That day and night, Baizhu lived in the city, and he planned to send someone to Jicui Temple the next morning to let Nakura Kihachiro make final arrangements. The troops of Yoda Nobubo and Honda Masanobu have mobilized Okabe Jiroemon, and have taken control of Anayama's old leader. They have also invited Sone Shimono Mori Masashi, and they should be ready to enter Koshu.Therefore, once there is news from Nakura Kihachiro, within two or three days, he can take over Kofu and send Hidetaka out safely... Baisuke had a wishful thinking in mind. "Ah, you've worked hard...I'm happy, I'm drunk." Led by Xiulong, Baisuke came to Tatsukan's bedroom.He hung the knife on the knife rest next to his pillow, stroked his big belly, and kept laughing. "Nakura Kihachiro, he probably wouldn't have thought that I would be treated so favorably here, and he's probably having a nightmare right now. Hizen Mamoru-sama didn't expect him to be much better than the rumors said, and he's such a virtuous gentleman , is admirable." Baisuke entered the bunk while talking drunkenly to the attendants.When the servant put down the mosquito net, the room was already snoring like thunder. It is hot during the day, but it becomes very cool at night, which makes people feel as if there are mosquitoes and flies in a different season.Soon, Momosuke, who was drunk, kicked the futon aside. "My lord, I've brought you water..." It was a young maid who came in for the second time.She put the tea bowl next to Momosuke's pillow, quietly raised the mosquito net, and poked her head in. "Hey." The maid Yi respectfully called out, but there was no reply.It is customary at this time that if there are guests staying overnight, a woman should accompany them to talk.Therefore, if Baizhu wakes up, he must think that the person standing in front of him is an accompanying woman.The maid looked at Baisuke who was sleeping soundly, with a hint of confusion on her face, then quietly put down the mosquito net, and tiptoed away.After a while, two figures appeared on both sides of Baizhu's bedroom, both of them were fully armed, two with guns and two with knives. "Sleeping like a dead pig." One of them muttered, and the other three nodded. Then, several people leaned forward and touched the mosquito net from three directions.Those who stayed in the corridor stood on the lookout where they could see the interior. This is not all the men who came to assassinate Baisuke, but the first group of assassins.The second group had already ambushed near the surrounding corridors, and the third group had more than 30 people and surrounded the annex from the courtyard. Kawajiri Hidetaka's plan is to end Hyakusuke Honda here first, and then go to Jisuiji Temple to lure Kihachiro Nakura to the city and kill him in the name of Hyakusuke after dawn.Then, abandon the city.The victory of his plan was in sight. At this time, the attackers approaching from three directions had raised their weapons, but the mosquito net was still snoring loudly.The leader standing in the corridor made a gesture and said in a low voice: "Go!" The mosquito net was cut down before the words fell, and under the dim light, two guns stabbed at the sleeping hundred together. help. "Ah..." A beast-like howl sounded from the mosquito net, "Who is it? You despicable villain, you dare not even report your name!" But the other party did not answer, and then stabbed again. "Woo..." This time the mosquito net was no longer screaming, but an angry moan.Then, the mosquito net rolled up like a wave, and Mosuke's big hand stretched out from inside, trying to take the long knife from the knife holder.At this time, the figure hiding in the corridor jumped in. "Ah!" There was a flash of cold light, and Baisuke's arm fell off, bleeding profusely. "Who?" As expected of a battle-tested samurai, Honda Hyakusuke jumped out of the mosquito net the moment his right arm was cut off, and picked up the long knife with his left hand.However, the two guns still follow him like a shadow, entangled him like a devil. "Come on!" As soon as the words finished, Baizhu put the scabbard in his mouth, and swung the knife behind his back with his left hand. "Ah..." Of the two men with guns, one of them leaned back, while the other stepped back. "Haisuke..." The man who jumped in from the corridor held the knife and grinned, "Why, did you recognize me?" In fact, Baisuke was not only cut off with an arm, but also shot in the chest.But he was still very sober, "Are you Xiulong?" "Haha..." Xiulong laughed, "Ieyasu's trick, you told me clearly. He wants to get rid of me, and then take the two countries into his hands... Hmph, how could his conspiracy be so easy? Success!" "No, it's not..." "Don't naively think that I am a weak person. I am the capable general sent here by the late Lord Youfu. After getting rid of you, I will kill Nakura Kihachiro in your name, and then withdraw to Kyoto to attack Germany Chuan. Your injury is beyond recovery, but even so, before you die, I still want to give you a gift, just to let you know that my intelligence is far superior to yours. " "No, that's not the case. Xiulong..." Baizhu got out of the mosquito net, but he could no longer stand firm, and fell to his knees in a pool of blood with a plop, "Kill me, and you won't live long." "Hmph! Until now, you are still stubborn and dare to argue!" "I'm not quibbling. The road to Shinano is blocked. If you kill me, you won't even be able to leave my lord's territory. You're going out of your way. You can forget about...killing me, but my lord is still upright Yes. Don't doubt it." "Haha... You are dying, and you still have to quibble!" "Hey! I really don't believe it, I can only insult my mission..." "Since you and I are both warriors, let me make a mistake for you." "Xiulong, I'll say it again. I hope you don't doubt my lord and cut off the way out. Do you hear... ah, my eyes are blind and my ears are deaf. You can forget about killing me, but hope Don't doubt...don't doubt..." Seeing this, even the gunmen forgot to attack and stood there blankly.Xiulong walked forward in two or three steps, without saying a word, raised his hand and cut off Baisuke's head from the neck. Only then did Baisuke throw the knife, and the body fell on the severed arm.His lips were still twitching violently, as if trying to say something desperately. At this moment, there was a bang, and a strange sound came from a distance, neither thunder nor wind. "Report!" A figure flew over from the corridor and knelt down in front of Xiulong. Xiulong was also taken aback. He turned around, still holding the bloody knife in his hand. "What's wrong?" "Looks like mobs. One group rushed from the bank of the Zhuo River, and the other rushed out from the woods of Daquan Temple. They held up high flags, shouted slogans, and forced them towards the annex." Hearing what his subordinates said, Xiulong was so frightened that he almost fell down. He stood there leaning on a knife.This must have been arranged by Honda Hyakusuke and Nakura Kihachiro. "Close the four doors immediately, and don't allow a thug to break in. Damn it, Ieyasu, a bastard!" Xiulong swallowed, his mouth twisted in anger, and his whole body was trembling.According to his thinking, this riot was also an extremely insidious conspiracy by Ieyasu. But in fact, Ieyasu was in Owari at this time, and Nakura Kihachiro was also worried about Honda Hyakusuke at Jisuiji Temple, and they had nothing to do with this uprising.If we talk about the indirect relationship, there is a source, which is the difference in temperament between Nobunaga and Ieyasu. It can even be said that it was the death of Nobunaga that caused the riots. For Takeda's survivors, Nobunaga has always taken thorough and severe punishment.He has always believed in "strength" to end wars with strength.This kind of will will have an impact on Kawajiri Hidetaka and other retainers, making them distorted, hypocritical, cunning, and killing innocent people indiscriminately. Ieyasu will not remain silent whether it is based on belief or character. He is very aware of the shortcomings of the "strength" that Nobunaga respects.Whether it was pleading for Anayama Meiyuki in the past, or this time's enthusiastic appeasement of Yoda Nobubo, Menna Sakon, Okabe Masatsuna, Hatsune Nobumasa, Kobama Masataka and other local warriors in Koshu, so that they can get rid of Nobunaga's control, it can be said that it is true. Ieyasu's ingenious political means, but in essence, is the benevolence Ieyasu inherited from his grandmother and even his mother.The huge difference in character between Ieyasu and Nobunaga caused waves immediately after Nobunaga's death.On the night that Honda Hyakusuke was killed, the storm spread to Kofu Castle. Kawajiri Hidetaka hurriedly left the annex, returned to his residence, dressed neatly, and rushed to the city gate.There are more than 2,000 soldiers in the city. Xiulong felt that as long as he could gain enough time to prepare, he could defeat those mobs. When Xiulong rushed to the city gate, the vanguard of the riot had already arrived at the city gate. "Joshiro Kawajiri Hizenmoru of the Oda Clan, come out!" Hearing the shouts from the castle, Xiulong stabbed the naginata in his hand hard into the ground. "I am Kawajiri Hizen Morihide Takashi, are you the leader of the riot?" "Exactly." The voice outside the city was unusually calm, which surprised Xiulong, "I am Yaichiro Mitsui, the former minister of Saburobei in Naishan Prefecture." "A few days ago, you slipped through the net, and today you actually came to incite foolish people to rebel. Mitsui Yaichiro, what do you and I have to talk about, let's hear it." Mitsui Yaichiro's clearer and calmer voice came from below the city, in stark contrast to Hidetaka's flustered and hoarse voice. "If the person above is Kawajiri Hizen, please don't panic." Yaichiro motioned the people around to quiet down, "Tonight, Honda will help Mr. Nobutoshi to be a guest in the city, and he will live in the city. Bring Mr. Honda here .” "What do you want him to do?" "I have something to ask him." "You, just because you are a rioter..." At this point, Xiulong suddenly changed his mind, "Master Honda just passed out at the banquet, and is resting now. He is my honored guest, how can you Bring it in front of you, a mob, easily. Tell me, what do you want to know?" "I heard..." The people in the city lowered their heads and pondered for a while, "I might as well tell you. I want to ask you about the surrender of the city. I don't want to hear other people's stories, but I want to find out from Lord Honda myself." "If I tell you that as soon as the men from Anayama arrive, I will hand over the city to him, and then cross the territory of Tokugawa and withdraw to the capital, what can you do?" "I want Master Honda to tell me personally." Xiulong was so angry that his legs trembled. "This...is this an order from Nakura Kihachiro?" "It's inexplicable! This is the result of discussions between the rioters." "Then what if I have nothing to say?" "It can only mean that you have already put Mr. Honda...then, we will not be polite." I don't know when, piles of bonfires were lit under the embankment inside and outside the city, reflecting the night sky red.The eyes of the war horse led by the attendants were also filled with red flames.When Xiulong saw this, waves of uneasiness and anger surged in his heart.It seems that it was a bit early to start... But now, Baisuke has become a corpse. "No, you are intimidating me... If you have listened to your instructions, where will I save my face? How can I tell you that you wield knives and guns like this!" Asked for a moment, the outside of the city became quiet.It looked like this wasn't a mob—the remnants of Takeda had taken control of the populace. The people in the city whispered for a while, and then said: "People in the city listen carefully!" This time it was no longer Yaichiro's voice, but another rough voice. "If Honda Hyakusuke is still alive, we will follow his instructions and let Kawajiri Hizen guard a way out. If you don't see Mr. Honda, then don't ask any more questions. Tomorrow night, we will go into the city and kill Hizen Mori If there are still many people related to the Takeda family in the city, please abandon the city and escape for our lives, so as to save us trouble. Do you hear me clearly? Only one day." This shout immediately silenced the entire city.Kawajiri Hidetaka was going crazy with anger, but he still pretended to be calm and laughed. “混账东西……以为我肥前守这么容易就把城交给你们这帮暴徒吗？凭什么只给我一天时间！为何不立刻前来决战？”他正大喊大叫，突然发现有些不对，侧耳一听，对方果然如所说，已开始井然有序地撤退了。 趁势杀出去？转念一想，秀隆又使劲地摇了摇头。跟这些熟悉地形的暴徒们夜战，岂不愚蠢透顶。他在城里的部下还有人不知百助被杀。一旦乱起，有人放火，势必乱作一团。 “给我严守城门！”秀隆一边命令士卒，一边不住地咂嘴。他突然感到一阵慌乱，对前途充满了迷惘。他一直坚信家康、名仓喜八郎和三井弥一郎之间有密切联系。想到这里，本多百助那张苍白的脸又浮现在秀隆眼前。他认为，当务之急是先除掉百助的所有随从，虽然不知暴徒今后会如何行动，但绝不能让城里出现内应。 回到房里，秀隆依然身着盔甲，苦苦思索应敌之计。刚才如此喧闹，百助的随从们一定都未睡。若再请他们喝酒，只会使之更加怀疑。他们一旦清醒过来，就会立即发现情形不对。“先把他们骗进牢里关押起来。现在城外吵闹，若将他们换到百助的外间睡，定会毫不疑心……” 大功告成之后，秀隆才安心地躺了下来。这几天他太疲劳了，当再次睁开眼睛的时候，太阳已经升得很高了，衣服里面湿淋淋的，全是汗。 秀隆立即起身吩咐道：“就这么定了。趁晚上有月亮，傍晚时分打开城门，把队伍开出去。若遇阻拦，立刻击溃他们，走信浓路，奔美浓。打本多百助的旗帜，还要做出百助在队伍中间的样子……粮草到路上再筹集。” 秀隆洗了手，漱了口，噗一声把水吐到地上，旋又捶了捶胸膛，对侍从道：“幸亏女儿没有跟来。吃完饭，立刻让大家集中到大厅里来。这次的撤退可是表现个人才智之时。” 然而，此时川尻秀隆的命运已不再掌握在他自己手里了。他悠然地踱进大厅，不禁大吃一惊：本来至少有一百二三十个中级以上的武士集中到这里，现只有十八人。 “怎么回事？赶紧让他们集合。这是非常时期。” “报。”从小就在秀隆身边侍奉的侍童头目福田文吾伏在了地上，“其余的人早在今日天未亮时，打开城门逃走了。” “逃走了？” 文吾伏在地上，哭了起来。 “别只顾着哭！他们到底有何不满？”秀隆厉声道。此事着实令他意外。不必多问，城里定有内应。他们必是觉得秀隆根本没有胜算。 剩下的十八人都垂头丧气，谁也不说一句话。过了一会儿，文吾方抬起头来。“他们逃跑时，劫了狱，把本多的随从也带走了……” “什么？百助的随从？” “剩下的人，算上下人，也就八十来个了。大家都已作好了赴死的准备。主公也要痛下决心。” “你的意思，是要我切腹？不！”秀隆大喊了起来，接着又无言了。眼前一切太令人意外，他只顾愤怒，甚至连思维都有些停滞了，只是全身哆嗦，仰天长叹。 天气格外闷热，大厅里不通风，散发着一股奇怪的霉味。 “我不自杀！我决不自杀！” “那么，主公的意思，是要我们和敌人同归于尽？” “留下来的人至少已下了决心，要与我同生共死。虽然只有这么几个人，可是，我还是要让家康大吃一惊，让他知道我的厉害。” 现在，摆在秀隆面前的只有两条路。一是乖乖地自杀，二是落荒而逃。怀着对家康的无比憎恨，秀隆义无反顾地选择了后者。他把八十多人分成四组，等到夜幕降临的时候，在四面的城门处燃起熊熊大火，以壮声势。“他们不知我们的人数，便不敢贸然杀进来。我自有锦囊妙计。”说罢，秀隆压低了声音，把自己的计谋告诉了八十几个弟兄：到时候，就对起义的头目三井弥一郎诈称秀隆已经自尽，佯装把人头交给他，趁机结果他的性命，这样一来，其余的暴民必会一哄而散。“到时候，你们就骗他们说，交接织田氏的城代川尻肥前守首级之时，若人多手杂，恐出乱子，故只能让五个人进来。他们不想烧城，必会中计前来，就手起刀落……”八十几个人在各个城门堆放了很多柴草，等待夜幕降临。 “估计暴民们半夜才会来。先打个盹吧。”一切准备就绪之后，秀隆回到房里打了一个盹。蚊子很多，他睡得迷迷糊糊的，也不知过去了多长时间。突然，外面传来一阵杂乱的脚步声。 “秀隆，秀隆在哪里……” 秀隆一听，一下蹦了起来，感觉青竹枪的锋芒在眼前划过。他把被子一掀，赤着脚就跑了出去。这时，一伙人已从后面追了过来。毫无疑问，都是起事的暴徒。但令人不解的是，这些人究竟是何时、从何处进来的？ “你们这些亡命之徒，休要过来！”秀隆又磕磕绊绊地逃起来。 月亮已经升起，四周亮如白昼。由于在慌乱之中出逃，秀隆既没带刀，也没穿盔甲，显得更是狼狈。“你们到底是从何处进来的？站住，不许过来！”他像是一只被猎犬追赶的野兔，绕着一棵小罗汉松转了两圈，想乘机溜走。此时，“噗”一声，他右边的大腿像是被烙铁烧着，热辣辣地疼——一支竹枪已结结实实地刺入了他的大腿。 “啊！”秀隆惨叫一声，扑倒在草地上。事到如今，他仍觉不可思议。在月光下，他看得很清楚，每个城门都已按照他的吩咐燃起了熊熊篝火。 秀隆倒地之后，五六个人飞速冲了过来。 “不要过来，你们这些蛮人！” “到底谁是蛮人？我看你才是蛮人！” “揪住头发，把他拖回去。” “踢他，使劲地踢，把他踢死。” “让他这么早就死，太便宜了他，好好地收拾收拾，让他尝尝受罪的滋味。” 几个人一拥而上，有的用矛头使劲地戳，有的用脚拼命地踢，还有的则狠狠地揪他的头发……就在这时，只见一个人手里提着刀，气喘吁吁，大喊一声跑了上来。“住手！等等，大家且等一等！”此人正是三井弥一郎，“川尻大人，按照事先的约定，我是来取你首级的。” "Agreement?" “你不是已在白天下令了吗，只限我们五个人进城接受你的首级。” “你……你……你是从哪里听说的？” “从你手下的嘴里。八十多个士兵嫌你没有一点儿骨气，居然害怕切腹，都觉你根本不配做武士，差不多都逃走了。” "escape?" “对，现在你用不着惊诧了。在开战之前，就有五十五人逃跑了，现在，这座城里除了你，只剩下二十二人了……不，其中的八人已经为你送命，其他的，则是受伤的受伤，投降的投降。” 秀隆似乎还想说点什么，却已说不出来。这些不忠的家臣，定是受了家康的诱惑，才起了背叛之心…… “肥前守大人。”弥一郎接着道，“没有领民，焉有领主。领民可不是你想杀就杀，想剐就剐的玩物。你现在该明白了吧？” “不……不……不明白。” “那么，就请你用这把匕首，痛快地自行了结吧。”三井弥一郎似略带伤感，抬头望着月亮，“就像那纯洁的月亮一般，跟着你那些先行一步的家臣们一起去吧。弥一郎会为你介错。” 在燃烧着愤怒火焰的竹枪之下，秀隆慢慢地捡起了匕首……