Chapter 19 Chapter Nineteen Killing the Three Elders

The sun is warm and warm, and it is already the spring of the twelfth year of Tianzheng.In the Ieyasu Mansion in Hamamatsu Castle, the old plum tree is covered with clusters of pure white flowers, which are dazzlingly white under the sunlight, like clouds and catkins. From time to time, Ieyasu poked his head out of the guest room to look at the plum blossoms.He had been talking closely with Honda Sakuzaemon and Ishikawa Suzumasa for more than two hours.This is extremely rare.It's fine if it's just chatting at night, but the Tokugawa family has never had all their close officials retreat and have such a long secret conversation.Therefore, in the two guard rooms outside, the guards such as Okubo Heisuke, Imachiyo, Torii Matsumaru, and Nagai Denhachiro are very strange.

"Looks like it was a tough conversation." "That goes without saying! Is it not important to specially call Ishikawa Hoki from Okazaki to have a secret talk? Maybe a decisive battle will be launched." "With whom?" "You still don't know? Of course Hashiba Chikuzen is guarding." "Oh? The more you talk, the more interesting it becomes." "That's not all. It's impossible for such an important matter to be discussed in secret by three people. Yoshida's Captain Sakai Saemon and Honda Tadakatsu must be indispensable."

"Several well-known stubborn tempers meet, and opinions will definitely differ. Listen, Zuo Zuo is always clearing his throat loudly. The old man only does this when he is angry." Several people were discussing, and there was another unusual coughing sound from inside.Everyone shut their mouths and smiled at each other. "Who's there? Come here alone!" Ieyasu's voice followed the coughing sound.Torii Matsumaru hurriedly got up and went over: "What are your orders, my lord?" Ieyasu's expression was serious, his face had never been so red. "We're going to have a long talk tonight. Go tell the cook to prepare some food. I'll call you guys again when you want it. Back off." Ieyasu glanced at Matsumaru, then turned his gaze to Zuowei Door. "Then, what the old man means is that it is best for Nobuo to kill the three elders, right?"

"There is no way." Zuo Zuo replied, "Who made the fate of the three elders unlucky? Chikuzen Shou had already planned it. If he came like that, Nobuo would definitely kill the three elders. Chikuzen Shou has a plan in mind." "Oh? How about you?" Ishikawa Hoki Shoushu was thinking for a long time with his head on the side, and then said: "I think so too, besides..." "You said it was hopeless?" "My heart hurts too." Ieyasu sighed.In fact, after entering February, Nobuo sent another emissary.According to the secret envoy, since Nobuo's veterans Okada Nagato Mori Shigetaka, Tsugawa Genbo Yoshitoshi, and Asai Tian Kanmaru Chotoki have secretly taken refuge in Hideyoshi, Nobuo intends to kill the three veterans. Prepare for war and so on.

Although all the requests were made by Nobuo, and the changes were within the expectation of Ieyasu and others, but the frequent contacts between Ieyasu and Nobuo were not for this purpose.He really wanted to know how Hideyoshi viewed the strength of the Tokugawa Clan and what position he placed the Tokugawa Clan in.Because there have long been rumors outside that Hideyoshi regards Ieyasu as the same as Nobuo.Could it be that he dared to challenge Nobuo brazenly knowing that Ieyasu was supporting Nobuo behind his back?Ieyasu didn't know what to do. At the beginning, I was very worried about doing left and right. "You can't be so careless."

Although everyone is thinking so, it is wishful thinking after all.Hideyoshi is not such an ordinary person, he easily got Nobuo's three elders hooked, and then aggressively forced Nobuo to either absolutely obey or go to war, even ignoring Ieyasu behind him.Of course, Ieyasu couldn't sit idly by.The lips are dead and the teeth are cold.Hideyoshi dealt with Nobuo first, and then naturally dealt with Ieyasu. "Is it absolute obedience or war?" Today, this question has been placed in front of Nobuo, but tomorrow, Ieyasu will be forced to answer it.If you obey Hideyoshi absolutely, nothing will happen.Once the answer is no, a decision must now be made.Instead of waiting for Nobuo to be eliminated and revolting alone, it is better to cooperate with Nobuo now and work together to fight against Hideyoshi.

If Ieyasu is on Nobuo's side, he will have the title of righteousness.Ieyasu is neither Nobunaga's vassal nor Nobunaga's general, but Nobunaga's distinguished relative and ally. Therefore, if he uses his friendship with Nobunaga to fight against the traitor Hashiba Hideyoshi on Nobunaga's side, it can be done with dignity . "You traitor, you don't even want to let go of the former lord's orphan!" The idea has been made, but the timing of the war is not easy to determine.While Ieyasu was hesitating, Nobuo sent a secret envoy, saying that he wanted to kill the three old ministers who were in contact with Hideyoshi, and wanted to use this as an opportunity to start a war.

If the three families really took refuge in Hideyoshi, it would be fine to kill them, just express their consent to the envoy.But if the three elders are removed, it is clear that Hideyoshi's tricks succeed.Everyone in the world is well aware of this, so Ieyasu called everyone together to discuss countermeasures.Once the three elders are really killed, Nobuo's own power will be cut by more than half. Is there a better way to convince Nobuo that it was just a misunderstanding? "It's impossible!" Zuo Zuo shook his head first, "Anyone who is suspicious will only make judgments according to his own temperament. If we try to dissuade him, he will become more suspicious. If we raise objections to him, he will soon I’m afraid I will look back and suspect that you and Hideyoshi are the same breed.” Therefore, as the leftist advocates, Ieyasu had better pretend to be ignorant of the old affairs of the three families, and use Nobuo as a “forest against the wind” to fight against Hideyoshi.

Since the affairs of A and Nobu have been dealt with almost, and there is no worries at present, Ieyasu has no particular objection to Sakuzuo's idea of ​​going to war immediately.However, if possible, try to rescue the elders of the three families and fight Hideyoshi together. This is the best policy both emotionally and strategically.Ieyasu and Shuzheng felt deeply sorry. "I heard that at Mitsui Temple, the three flatly rejected Hideyoshi's invitation to go to Osaka and returned directly to Nagashima. Is that true?" "It's true. However, I heard that Nobuo doubted them even more..."

"Could it be that he thinks that Hideyoshi deliberately sent the three of them back to create chaos from within?" "According to the information I got, Saburo Takigawa coveted Tsugawa Yoshitou's Matsushima Castle, and kept slandering Nobuo, saying that the three families had different ideas." "That's troublesome. How could this happen? Once things get messy..." As soon as the topic of Ieyasu and Shuzheng shifted to Sanjia Lao, Zuo Zuo interrupted. "My lord, don't talk like a woman! The elders of the three families can't be saved. What we need to discuss now is how to hit the monkey in the head and catch him off guard. Have you thought everything through, my lord?"

"It should be more comprehensive, the number is positive." Shuzheng closed his eyes, his forehead was covered with wrinkles. "In my opinion, we still have to fully support the riots of Kishu's Nerai and Zagazu." "I thought of that too." "If the riot is successful, more than 20,000 people will flock from Sakai Port to Osaka like a tide, which will definitely bring considerable trouble to Hideyoshi who has just built a new city." Ieyasu nodded vigorously. "The ones who planned the riot were Kaoin of Yasuda and Yutao Suzukawa. If you send them another letter, it will definitely get twice the result with half the effort." "My lord!" Shu Zheng's eyes widened, "There is one more person!" "Who?" "We must not ignore the power of the Hatake (zai) Yama clan, the guardian of the former Kishu. Now, the head of the Hatake (zai) Yama clan is Zaemonsa Sadamasa. If this person can help contact the rioters, That would be great." "it is good!" "In this way, the Kishu riots, coupled with the surprise attack by Sugahiraemon of Awaji with more than two hundred warships, was enough to make Hideyoshi terrified in the first battle, and the strength of the troops he brought to Owari would soon be overwhelmed. Cut it in half." "Number is positive!" Zuo Zuo interjected impatiently, "You always talk about your strength, you can't say that in front of everyone." "I know. However, Chikuzen is best at 'positional attack' tactics, and what affects his morale the most is the lack of troops. Therefore, we should do our best to instigate forces against Hideyoshi everywhere. My lord, not only The 200 ships from Awaji, and the ships from Mikawa, Toe, and Suruga must also gather together to attack Hideyoshi from the sea... These are also very important, and we must not be careless!" Ieyasu nodded.Since a battle with Hideyoshi is inevitable, there must be no hesitation.If he hesitates for a day, the scheming Hideyoshi will come up with many tricks. First bring down Nobuo, and then do the same to get rid of Ieyasu by the same means. This is Hideyoshi's wishful thinking.However, Ieyasu did not wait for Hideyoshi to come forward, and took the initiative to join forces with Nobuo... However, this idea was for the benefit of the Tokugawa clan. If it failed, Nobuo would disappear from this world, but Ieyasu To survive.In fact, Nobuo is Ieyasu's shield. Of course Hideyoshi would be aware of this.If he wants to eliminate Nobuo, he will make a big publicity: Ieyasu manipulated Nobuo behind his back.However, once Nobuo really killed or imprisoned the three elders, Ieyasu could not form an alliance with Nobuo.Therefore, now is the best time to go to war...Of course, Hideyoshi will definitely think deeper and go further than Ieyasu. "The ships need to be concentrated, but ships alone are not enough." Ieyasu interjected.It seems that he agrees more with Shuzheng's prudence and sophistication than Zuozuo's arrogance and arrogance. "Whether or not to kill the elders of the three families depends entirely on Nobuo's will. Who should be sent as an envoy?" "You can send anyone. This is to break up people, not to accomplish good things." "No, that's definitely not the case, Zuo." Ieyasu frowned, "Chikuzen is good at strategy, and he will seek internal support from the opponent's retainers. Once this matter is exposed, people will say that Ieyasu is a villain who does not speak integrity." Not to mention Hideyoshi, even the officers and men of Ka, Shun, and Shin will all suspect me." "My lord means..." "We should try our best to rescue the three elders." "What if Nobuo won't listen?" "Zuo Zuo, you are such a long-winded person! Do you have to let me speak out? Our task is only to prevent Nobuo from killing the three elders. If he really wants to kill, there is nothing we can do. Nobuo is such a person. Do you still unknown?" "Haha, why am I so confused!" Tsukuzu laughed, "My lord, you really are. How about letting Shumasa and Shigetada Sakai go?" "It's okay to be loyal." Sakai Kawachi Mori Shigetada is the son of Yale Zusho family, and also a dignified minister.Ieyasu nodded casually. "Since you all said yes, I have no objection. I'm going out now. You can discuss how to dissuade Nobuo. After that, I will give the order." "Hey, I'm convinced!" Zuo Zuo praised, "What a cunning master!" Not long after Ieyasu left the banquet, Shigetada Sakai was called into the academy.He has the heroic spirit of his father, but also not lacking in prudence. Compared with Zuo Zuo, who has a rough temperament, his every move seems natural and generous, and even makes the person sitting opposite him feel pressured. "Sakai, my lord is going to send you on a mission. This is a very important mission." "Where are you going as an envoy?" Zhong Zhong frowned, "I am not suitable for an envoy. This is too sudden, so please forgive me." "No, it's not... Because I really can't find a more suitable candidate, the lord calls you to go." "Hmph, it must be another bad idea from Lord Honda." Zuo Zuo listened and laughed. "It is precisely because of your keen nature and ability to read people's hearts that you are recommended as an envoy to Qingzhou." "Qingzhou..." "Yes, Nobuo is not in Long Island now, but in Qingzhou. You just need to say 'we accept' and you can come back." "Accept what?" "Nobuo is going to fight Hashiba Chikuzen. The lord remembers Nobunaga's kindness, and wants to help the helpless Nobuo, and severely punish Hideyoshi, who is against the lord. You just pat your chest and say that is justice. war, we have accepted it, and that is enough." "My lord, you are not deliberately making fun of me, are you?" "What are you talking about! Even if you're joking, you don't dare to laugh at such a big event. The lord has made up his mind, and even Shuzheng, who has always been cautious, agrees. Everyone has heard it." "Oh?" Shigemada shifted his gaze to Suzheng, "Is it true, Master Ishikawa?" Shuzheng nodded.He smiled at Zuo Zuo, who didn't tell the story of the three elders - there was no need to tell the envoy about it, there was more important thing to tell the other party, that is, the Tokugawa clan had agreed to fight, and in the future the two sides would even more Stay in touch. "Does the lord have a chance of winning?" "Hahaha... Zhongzhong, you are talking nonsense again. Think about it, if there is no chance of winning, can the lord go to war?" "Exactly." "Now that you understand, will you agree to the mission? When the lord comes back, you can't complain about the heavy burden in front of the lord." "Since it is the Lord's order, I have no choice but to obey. But why did the two adults choose me to go?" Tsukuru took a look at the number and smiled grinningly. "Well," Shu Zheng straightened up, half-closed his eyes and said, "This is because you can reassure the other party. Since we want to start a war, we must let Nobuo know. Once he feels that we are not reliable at all, his Confidence will be greatly weakened. In addition, it must be stated that when fighting, both sides must strictly abide by all war agreements." "Of course these two things are important, but there must be more than that. Otherwise, I wouldn't be there at all, and there are still many candidates." Sakai Shigetada nodded happily, and gently countered the first army. "That's all!" Honda Zuzaemon suddenly became anxious, and yelled loudly, "Don't talk too much, just go. My lord asked you to go, and Susho and I also agree. You don't have to push back and forth." "There must be something else. Otherwise, it will be difficult for me to go." "Haha." Sakuzaemon laughed, and Suzuma stared deeply at Shigeta. "What's so funny, old man?" "You are really difficult." "Why? From the very beginning, I knew that you guys must have something to hide from me, so I didn't go. I'm not a brat. Did Nobuo make things difficult for you, so you came to Hamamatsu to ask for countermeasures? Hurry up Sell ​​it again." "Why are you like this!" Zuo Zuo looked back at Suzheng, and laughed loudly, "Then I'll tell you, Zhongzhong. If you deliberately trick me into saying it, and you don't accept it, then I will tell you." It's not over!" "I understand. Tell me." "You must not think that this is the master's scheme. Recently, the master has been merciful, but in fact he is a little soft-hearted." Zukuzuo widened his eyes, looked around, leaned out his upper body suddenly, and lowered his voice, "Therefore, I will discuss with Shu Zheng , we absolutely cannot lose to Hashiba Chikuzen..." "Don't you want to win, my lord?" "Yes. In short, in order to win, we have to use the rebellious Nobuo as the shield of the Tokugawa clan, and check the reality of Chikuzen before sending you away. This is the true intention of the lord." "I see……" "However, only Shuzheng and I know about this matter. We always felt that we needed someone to know about it, so we thought of you. If you made the matter clear, would you still refuse?" Sakai Shigetada shrugged his shoulders, looked at the two, and said helplessly: "Then, the means to win is..." "The so-called must win means that you must never fail." "Then what?" "First use Nobuo as a forest against the wind. If the enemy is too strong, Shuzheng will go directly to Chikuzen to prevent the war from happening." "What if the opponent is not that powerful?" "Then Zuo Zuo, let's show Zhuqian Shou some color." Chongzhong said, "What is my purpose for going to Qingzhou?" "Start a decisive battle with Hideyoshi... Although this is not what the lord intended, but the lord is not very opposed. Therefore, let Nobuo kill the three elders with peace of mind. In this way, the battle will start." Sakuzuo finished in one breath ,Laughed. "Understood, fully understood." Shigetada Sakai said again and again, and also smiled strangely, "The two elders have really tried their best." "If you don't bother, can you get along in this world?" "That is to say, you two have come to give advice to the Lord regardless of praise or praise?" "Don't say it so harshly. Needless to say, it will affect one person or a family, or even affect the entire Tokugawa clan. I'll wait and see how capable Chikuzen Mamoru is." "Since it's not for the master, why? Is it for the ambition?" "It depends on the mood of the person who is dealing with this issue. This is beyond my knowledge." After making Zuoyan, Shuzheng took a breath and said firmly: "I am not doing it for any ambition! I just follow my Do things according to the will of the Buddha in your heart.” "understood." At this moment, Shigemada seemed to be a little touched at last, he patted his thick chest, "If it wasn't for this, Chikuzen would be overwhelming and unstoppable. After defeating Nobuo, Hideyoshi would target the lord. In order to scare Hideyoshi, I also do my best." "You must cherish your life. First scare Hideyoshi, and then see what happens to him. For the sake of the overall situation, you should be a villain first, and go to incite Nobuo." "How can it be incitement! Anyway, as long as you can win, it is by no means a bad thing. Nobuo has become a thorn in Hideyoshi's side, and there is nowhere to hide." "Then, please invite the lord to be the left." Shuzheng said. "Okay." As he said, Zuo Zuo stood up, "You have to remember, loyalty, you must not say anything to the lord, you just say 'obedience'. As for the fact that you can't stop the killing of the three elders, you can make it boring." It's in my heart." Chongzhong didn't answer, but just patted his chest again.Zuo Zuo seemed to be unable to wait a long time ago, he frowned exaggeratedly, limped out, and invited Ieyasu in after a while. "Are you finished talking?" Ieyasu rested his arms on the table leisurely, didn't pay attention to Zhong, and just asked directly about the number. Shuzheng put his hands on the ground respectfully, and said: "We have already discussed the details with Zhongzhong." "Have you promised to go?" "Yes, I heard that the lord specially asked me to go by name, I am honored." "After you go, just talk to Nobuo." "I have already understood." "Since I'm sending you, I'm afraid I'll have a long talk with Nobuo. I'll write a letter for you to take with you, wait a while." As he spoke, Ieyasu took the inkstone box and paper from the case by the window, and began to write . On February 21st of the twelfth year of Tianzheng, Sakai Kawachi Morita set out for Qingzhou. It is of extraordinary significance to go on a mission in such a season.If war really breaks out, March is undoubtedly the best season for the Tokugawa side. The scene of ice and snow during the Battle of Mt. Kidake no longer exists. The snow and ice in Hokuriku have melted, and the roads between the mountains have been opened up.At this time, the existence of the Uesugi family cannot be ignored by all parties.Ieyasu was no exception, but the one who was more worried than him was Hideyoshi who was attacking Kaga, Noto, and Echaka from Echizen.He was just too busy at the moment.The same is true for Hojo.Therefore, if you decide to go to war, the best season is March.Everything must be done within February. On the 25th, Zhong Zhong, who was carrying a heavy responsibility, entered Qingzhou City. Nobuo seemed to be impatient, and immediately invited him into the room. "Master Tokugawa recovered from his illness?" "Yes, he has recovered." Zhongzhong said with a serious face, "I married a second-bedroom woman again, and I am afraid that I will have another child soon." "Oh." Nobuo's eyes widened, "I'm really envious. Recently, I've stopped being a womanizer." "Why?" "The more I think about it, the more I feel..." As he spoke, Nobuo looked around vigilantly, dismissed the guards and maids, and said, "What did I just say, Hanoi guard?" "Speaking of not being feminine." Zhongzhong was still serious, unsmiling, like a mountain standing in the wind, extremely solemn, even a little ridiculous. "That's right, that's right, the more I think about it, the more angry I get, that monkey in Chikumae is so arrogant and conceited!" "It's not a long-term solution." "what?" "Spring is the season for the birth of all things. When you are young, don't get angry because of people like Chikuzen Shou. Everything should go with the flow, prepare carefully, and never slacken... In this way, the family business will naturally prosper." "That makes sense." Nobuo finally broke into a smile, "Are you always like this?" "Yes, when the battle is about to start, if you go out, you must be fully prepared. This is the family motto in my family. My grandfather said so, and my father has always done so." "Hahaha, interesting! So, speaking of starting a war, you..." "Ah!" Chongzhong's serious expression just now was wiped away, and he hastily stretched his hands into his arms. "I was only talking about the way to manage the family business with my lord, but I forgot the letter from the lord. Please read it!" After speaking, Zhong Zhong opened the purple gauze bag, took out the letter box, and solemnly kneeled in front of Nobuo, presenting it respectfully. While Nobuo read the letter silently, Shigetada looked blankly at the yard outside.In this city that once gave birth to Nobunaga's grand plan, there are many pine trees, and the trees are full of red plums, or peach blossoms.Zhong Zhong enthusiastically admired the scenery outside the window.After a long time, he suddenly said: "The little bird in the yard is so cute, is it raised by adults?" "Little bird...that's a white-cheeked bird." "Is it raised by adults?" "You don't need to raise them specially. I'm afraid you can see white-cheeked birds in Sanhe! Don't you Sanhe people know white-cheeked birds?" "Oh... I didn't pay attention to these. We only care about how to win, and we don't have time to care about any birds." "Hanoi Guard." "exist." "This letter only says that just in case, everything has been entrusted to Hanoi Mamoru, and I want to have an open and honest talk with Hanoi Mamoru... Is that all?" "Isn't that enough? The Tokugawa clan has never had envoys secretly submit to each other. Therefore, the envoys always carry the same letter, and all important contents are stored in their stomachs. This is our rule." When Nobuo heard this, he was a little unhappy, and then he smiled again. "I envy you all. It should be so, it should be so. So, you mean what Tokugawa-sama himself means, don't you?" "There is no need for the Lieutenant General to doubt these things. I dare to guarantee the five countries of Jun, Yuan, San and Jiaxin." Nobuo sighed again. "It's really enviable. Then, I propose that we initiate a decisive battle on our own initiative. What's your opinion, Lord Tokugawa?" "No objection. My lord will firmly support you from the standpoint of Enyi... Our side is fully prepared, and my lord is ready to go out at any time." "I have another question... how to deploy the formation once the war starts?" "It depends on your arrangement. My lord will come to Owari to discuss countermeasures with you." "How many troops Tokugawa-sama will lead to the battle, have you decided?" "That goes without saying, of course it's all the troops." "quantity?" "About 30,000 people in case of rebellion in various military fortresses." "What about instigating the mass riots in Genlai and Zahe?" "Of course. This war must be combined with a riot. For this reason, my lord has already sent an oath to Kaoin and Mr. Samukawa Utao in Yasuda. My lord, for the sake of caution, I will send envoys here soon. At that time, let the rioters sneak attack Osaka from Sakai Port, severely frustrating Hideyoshi's spirit. Hideyoshi has never suffered setbacks, so the battle has roughly decided the outcome from the beginning." I don't know when, Nobuo's eyes began to sparkle, and his brows were full of fighting spirit, which was very similar to his father's appearance. Before the change of Honnoji Temple, when Nobunaga had a banquet for Ieyasu and his soldiers in Azuchi City, when Shigetada took the wine glass from Nobunaga's hand, he found that Nobunaga in front of him was really a handsome man.Today's Nobuo is also majestic and dignified, no less than Nobunaga in the past, but only similar in appearance... Shigetada doesn't think Nobuo is majestic, he thinks it's just the courage of a man. "Then, let Hideyoshi's spirit be dampened first when the battle begins, and let the rioters go from Sakai Port to Osaka, and we will be their backup. Of course, the more people the better. Therefore, I hope that you will give Hatake (zai) Yamazuo of Kishu Emon Sa Sadamasa sent a secret letter..." I don't know when, loyalty has become a tone of command.Nobuo didn't show any displeasure, on the contrary, he danced happily and almost said "it's just what I want". "Of course, this matter cannot be sloppy at all. We can promise that after the matter is completed, we will give it to Jiyi and Hanoi. Okay, I will arrange it immediately." "Finally, I have one more request." "Require?" "Now, it is no longer an era where one can win by fighting alone. The key is the concerted efforts of the whole army. Therefore, no matter how critical the decision is, my lord and you must not change it without authorization, otherwise it will be ruined. Sow the seeds of disaster. Please keep it in mind, my lord!" "Of course I understand this. Nobuo Oda will keep his promise. After you go back, tell Master Tokugawa and his generals, and please rest assured." "Since that's the case, I'm relieved." Zhongzhong nodded vigorously, "My mission has been completed. Let's talk about the history of the Wu family." "Shigechu... What's your opinion on my proposal to kill the elders of the three families and launch a decisive battle as an opportunity?" "Beheading... the three elders? I don't know anything about this. But, my lord must keep in mind that no matter what happens, you can't let anything get in the way of starting a war. Isn't your lord always insisting on this?" Zhong Zhong frowned slightly, Said, "Originally, the elders of the three families... seemed to be in the way." "Well, now that I've finished talking, I don't care about other things. Maybe I should deal with these things myself." "Exactly. My lord never forgets important things. Since he didn't say anything, it's all up to you." "Oh? If that's the case, I'll deal with it myself... In this way, I can rest assured that I can have a good sleep tonight. Then, let's talk about other things, such as the story of the Wu family. Good wine and food are served." Nobuo clapped his hands with joy, and Shigetada heaved a sigh of relief.The old things of the three families are passed by ingeniously like this... Sakai Kawachi Mori Shigeta stayed in Kiyosu for one night, and returned to Hamamatsu the next day. Through this conversation with Nobuo, he seems to have finally discovered the complexity of the three old problems.Why are Ieyasu, Honda Zuzaemon, Ishikawa Suzumasa and others deeply troubled by this question?Before that, he had always simply believed that everyone was worried that once the three elders were killed, Nobuo's strength would be weakened. Only through the dialogue with Nobuo did he realize that there was something unexpected. I don't know whether it's Ieyasu's consideration or Shuzheng's consideration. In short, once the result of the war is unsatisfactory, Ieyasu will naturally "know nothing" about Nobuo beheading the three elders. "How could you do such a stupid thing!" In this way, the troops can be withdrawn quickly.Although it may be understood as cunning and deceitful, if there is no such preparation, Ieyasu has little room to maneuver in front of Hideyoshi.Has Nobuo thought about this cruel fact? In short, Nobuo sent Zhongzhong away with joy, and immediately sent envoys to the three elders. "Since the secret meeting with Tokugawa Ieyasu's envoy Sakai Kawachi Mamoru was successful, there are some important matters that need to be notified to you in person. Therefore, please come to Long Island City to discuss matters on the third day of March." After that, he hurried back to Long Island City . One of the elders of the three families, Okada Nagato Mamoru Shigetaka, the lord of Hoshizaki Castle in Oshu, couldn't help but get into trouble when he received the messenger's password.Such a secret conversation with Tokugawa is of great significance.Nobuo has decided to fight Hideyoshi, and Hideyoshi can hardly tolerate Nobuo, everyone knows this well.However, between the two sides, the three elders who played a key role in preventing the war were Okada Shigetaka, Tsugawa Yoshifuyu and Asai Tamiyamaru.They always believed that as long as the three of them disagreed, Nobuo would not be able to go to war, and Ieyasu would never easily side with Nobuo. Therefore, this meeting must be to discuss the conditions for starting the war proposed by Ieyasu.Either Ieyasu thought that the three elders agreed to go to war and asked them to send him hostages; or he also believed that the three elders were Hideyoshi's internal agents, and he heard some strange remarks and asked to distinguish the truth from the false.They had no choice but to rush to Long Island without hesitation.If you don't go, it will deepen Nobuo's suspicion of them and cause trouble. On the third day of March, Zhongxiao arrived in Long Island City on time.Yoshifuyu and Tamiya Maru also arrived.In the big academy, people are busy offering chrysanthemum wine for the Peach Blossom Festival. Zhongxiao finally breathed a sigh of relief.Since the embarrassing farewell at Mijing Temple, this is the first time the elders of the three families have come together to meet with Nobuo.Yoshifuyu Wada Kanmaru, who arrived first, was talking and laughing with Nobuo.Okada Shigetaka solemnly expressed his festival congratulations to Nobuo, and then greeted the full house of ministers.In addition to the two old ministers Asai and Tsugawa, there were Saburo Takigawa Yutoshi, Hijikata Kanbei Yuhisa, Iida Hanbei Masaka, Morihisa Saburo Haruki, and others, all of whom were red-faced. Under such an occasion, it is naturally difficult to say that Ieyasu sent a secret envoy.Therefore, after Chongxiao took the wine glass, he asked the guards to pour the wine, and said with a chuckle, "It's a pity when I was in Mijing Temple." "At that time, Chikuzen's side was heavily guarded. Not only did he not have the slightest chance to attack, but he almost became a prisoner..." Hearing this, Nobuo waved his hand lightly. "I had expected this a long time ago, so I deliberately pretended to retreat quickly. In this way, the Chikuzen monkey will definitely think that we have been prepared and become suspicious, and you will have an opportunity." "It's a pity. Although Chikuzen is our enemy, he is an outstanding general, wise and brave, and has a great strategy." "Therefore, we have to plan repeatedly before we can act. Senator Nagato, before you came here, everyone has already discussed it. Ieyasu also sent Shigeta Sakai." "On this occasion, talking about this kind of thing, I'm afraid..." "It's okay, I have already told everyone. Ieyasu's envoy said that this is an important battle that will determine the general situation of the world. Therefore, quickly recruit the three elders of your family, discuss it, come up with a resolution, and immediately notify Ieyasu. In this way, Ieyasu will Lead the whole army to the decisive battle." "We also need to participate in the resolution..." "Of course, first ask everyone's opinions, and then go all out to fight Hideyoshi." Okada Shigetaka quietly exchanged glances with Tsugawa Yoshifuyu and Asai Tamiyamaru.If Ieyasu is as they imagined, if Nobuo can't make up his mind and walk with him, he will never raise troops to support him.Although the elders of the three families secretly nodded to each other, Nobuo looked nonchalant, with aggressive eyes. "I suggest that after tasting the chrysanthemum wine, call the generals to discuss matters." Emphasis on filial piety. "Long Gatekeeper!" "exist." "I've made up my mind. Do you still have objections to the war?" "Yes... But, on this occasion..." Nobuo must not be easily let go to war, this is the consensus of the three elders.Especially since the Mitsui Temple meeting, Shigetaka has seen the strength of Hideyoshi more and more. "Okay, okay." Nobuo nodded lightly, "That's it for today, everyone just have fun. Starting tomorrow, we will talk about the military situation. This time I have made up my mind to win no matter what. Therefore, everyone should brainstorm and study Chikuzen Where is the weakness of the party and whether there is a gap to take advantage of. First study these details thoroughly before making a decision. Once the war breaks out, it is estimated that there will be no more banquets. Today, everyone is invited to drink freely." Shigetaka suddenly felt uneasy when the proposal was dismissed so casually by Nobuo.Could there be some conspiracy here?But for Nobuo's proposal of "drinking freely without regard to etiquette", of course he can't object, and the same goes for Yoshito and Tian Kanmaru. With the help of Ieyasu, Nobuo is determined to fight Hideyoshi, which seems to have become an ironclad fact. If they insist on opposing the war, it will undoubtedly destroy Nobuo's mood.The three elders finally failed to speak. Shigetaka was not drunk, and Tsugawa Yoshifuyu did not drink too much, only Asai Tamiyamaru was drunk, and said drunken words from time to time: "If this continues, I think it is tantamount to throwing yourself into a trap." However, everyone around seemed to be drunk, and Nobuo didn't seem to hear it. In short, the three days passed without incident. The three elders thought that a major military meeting would be held the next day, so they discussed the order of speeches, but to their great surprise, there was no movement on this day. At noon, Nobuo, who did not show up, sent someone to inform the meeting: "The meeting will be rescheduled for the fifth day. Please think about it for another day." "Why, the lord seems to have become more cautious this time." When they met again, Tsugawa Yoshifuyu was a little puzzled.However, Okada Shigetaka didn't think so at all: "From this point of view, even if you put forward a little objection, the lord will definitely not listen to it." "No, it won't. Although no one dares to object verbally, everyone is afraid of Hideyoshi's powerful influence. As long as the three of us are sensible, not to mention the reaction of the lord, others will definitely come to speak." "If this is the case, of course it would be great. From my point of view, I'm afraid..." Except for this, Chongxiao said nothing that day. Let everyone think about it for a day, it seems that Nobuo's determination is hard to shake. On the fifth day, it began to rain from early morning, but the temperature was very high.The cherry blossoms in the yard have already bloomed more than half, sucking the drizzle to their heart's content, exuding the breath of spring. "Please come to the hall." Around the same time, Nobuo's favorite minister Takigawa Saburo Bingwei came to inform Er, so the three elders got together and rushed to the hall early to wait. "Today, we have to say every word of our opinion. We know everything and say everything. Master Jin Chuan and Master Asai, both of you should be prepared." Emphasis on filial piety.The two nodded firmly. Shigetaka Okada was the first to speak, and Yoshifuyu Tsugawa was the next to express his approval.接着，主公信雄定会明白无误地陈述他的主张。之后，浅井田宫丸再发表意见。 信雄于巳时准时到来，表情与前三日没有什么不同。“会议现在开始。” 不知为何，信雄今天的心情出奇地好。“家康已经许诺，愿意率领全部兵力为我助战。那么，我们就要和秀吉决一死战，我想大家都不会反对吧？” 听了信雄这话，冈田重孝犹豫了一下，道：“启禀主公。” “哦，是长门守啊。你是星崎城主，这次就和家康的旗本大将一起，作进攻美浓的先锋吧。” “恕在下冒昧，对于此事，我有话要说。” “何事？难道你不想和家康的旗本大将共同作战？” “实是抱歉……重孝反对这次对筑前开战。” “什么？好，那你说说理由。这么重要的战事，我怎么能不听听大家的意见？”信雄并不那么吃惊，单是淡淡地询问起来，这令三人深感意外。 “主公刚才说，家康会率领全军助我方作战，我认为这完全不可信。” “哦，那说说你的理由。” “最近，德川氏重臣石川伯耆守数正暗降筑前的传言漫天……” “说的是，石川伯耆……” “可是，我认为这完全不可信。这必定是筑前一手炮制的谣言。德川凭什么会率领全军助我们作战？在开战之前，这些事情必须弄清楚。” “你的意思是说，家康帮助我们，不全是出于对先父的情义？” “恐是家康看到战火不久就要烧到自己身上，所以明哲保身。恐他只是想利用主公去和秀吉交手，坐享渔翁之利，我想他绝不会是真心参战……” “你的意思是说，家康参战并非本意？” “主公英明……”重孝深施一礼，正要继续陈述，不料一旁的津川义冬插了一句：“主公，义冬也完全赞成冈田。” “哦，你也反对？” “对于决堤涌来的浊流，即使有再大的力量，恐也难以阻止。因此，目前我们除了忍耐，别无选择，只能寄希望于主公与筑前的年龄差距。主公现在精力旺盛，年轻有为，春秋不到三十，而筑前已接近五旬。等到筑前的生命走到尽头的那一天，主公就成功了。所以，为今之计是隐忍……” 义冬说得严肃认真，浅井田官丸也连忙探出身子道：“主公要想压制筑前，唯有一个办法，那就是把我们三人送到大坂去做人质。只要我们在大坂，料筑前也不敢胡来。” “哦。”信雄冷冷道，“果然跟我料的不差。来人！”话音刚落，席上众将一齐拔出刀来。 “啊，你，你们，你们要干什么？”冈田重孝刚要起身，邻席的饭田半兵卫正家已经劈向津川义冬，砍在了他肩上。义冬惨叫一声，踉踉跄跄向走廊逃去。 “休得无礼，这是在主公面前。” “请见谅，主命难违。” “主命？”义冬慌忙往上座一看，信雄早已不见踪影。不仅如此，左右两边的出口也已被刀枪挡住。“这究竟是为何？” “你给我好好听着！”话音未落，土方勘兵卫雄久的三尺长刀已砍向了重孝，“可恨的叛贼，把你千刀万剐也不解恨！” “你说我背叛，到底有何凭据？” “休要再问！这是主公的命令，是天意！”泷川三郎兵卫雄利拔出腰刀，冲着躲在柱子后面的义冬又是一刀。 “三郎，你这个卑鄙小人……” “杀，快杀！” 义冬疼痛难忍，断断续续道：“我们遭人算计了……浅井，冈田，我先走一步了……”话未说完，他扑通一声跌倒在血泊里。 重孝顿觉全身血液倒流。“好，既然这样，我跟你们拼了。有种的过来！” “这是主公的意思，叛贼。” “主公才是真正的叛者。如觉得我们做家臣的形迹可疑，为何不在诂问之后，让我们切腹？他眼睁睁掉进筑前设下的圈套里，还做出诱杀忠臣的勾当……” “杀了他！别听他胡言乱语，快杀！” “唉！既然要杀，那就过来试试！”土方勘兵卫一跃而起，一刀朝重孝的左肩斜砍下去，重孝将长刀挡到一边，“啪”的一声，火星四溅，吓得众人倒退了几步。 不知何时，浅井田宫丸夺下了对方的枪，挽起胳膊，与森久三郎对峙起来。 “不就是区区两人吗，时间拖长了不免挨骂。大家一起上！”泷川三郎兵卫手里提着刀，只知下令，却不敢动手。 外面依然是暖意融融的春雨，身负重伤的义冬拼命地在榻榻米上爬着，身后留下一条血的溪流。重孝的脚踩到了血流，一下子摔倒在地。就在这时—— “啊！”他身后响起了一声悲鸣。浅井田宫丸已经被森久三郎斩杀。 同时，一块烙铁似的火热物体刺入了重孝的右肩，顿时，一种撕心裂肺般的疼痛传遍了全身。土方勘兵卫的豪刀砍在重孝的胸上，骨肉皆断。 “可……可……可惜……”一口鲜血从嘴里喷了出来，重孝的尸体跌倒在义冬身上。