Chapter 2 Chapter Two

Facing the warm spring sun, the small valley city of Ruoye Mountain is like a superbly crafted emerald, reflecting the dazzling light. Xiaogu City is backed by Hengshan, Jindun and Yibuki Mountains, with Huji Mountain on the left and the lake on the right.A jade belt flowing from the golden dung mountain is shining, and the city wall hidden among the green leaves is bathed in the peaceful spring.Xiaogucheng was built on the mountain, and the main city was built on the top of the mountain, followed by Erdaocheng, Jingjiyuan, Sannoyuan, and Chiweiyuan, making perfect use of the terrain.This fortified city has allowed the three generations of the Asai family to prosper in one continuous line. From the grandfather Ryomasa, the hermit Hisamasa to the current castle lord Nagamasa, they have enjoyed peace.

In the inner courtyard of the city, Shi Ji was making paper cranes for the eldest daughter, Cha Ji.Ichihime is Nobunaga's youngest sister.She moves her fingers deftly, concentrates on folding the paper cranes, and her beautiful neck is bathed in the spring sunshine. Seen from the side, the face seems to be melting in the sunlight.Her long eyelashes reveal loneliness.But the contours, the eyes, the nose, the face and the complexion, were flawless.She is already a mother of two and pregnant with a third child, but she does not appear to be twenty years old.Chacha Ji, who is watching her mother's origami crane, is as cute and beautiful as a pure doll.The maid is not in the room.The second daughter, Takahime, was crawling beside Ichihime's lap, babbling and tapping on the tatami from time to time.

"Mom, are you still okay?" "It will be ready soon. Chacha is a good boy. Be good, wait a little longer." "Chacha is a good boy. Chacha waits." In the Oda family where beautiful people emerge in endlessly, Ichihime is the most outstanding.She married into the Asai family for the dominance of her brother Nobunaga.What kind of fate awaits this Chacha Ji, who looks so much like her mother?Just as Shi Ji was thinking of this, she suddenly heard voices coming from the courtyard. It is her husband Asai Bizen Shou Nagamasa.Nagamasa is twenty-six years old.Ever since his father Jiuzheng moved to the Shanwang Garden in Erdaocheng to live in seclusion, he began to watch the rise and fall of various forces in the world in this city.It was also a strategy to marry the Oda family back then, but now, he has been deeply attracted by Ichihime.

"What do you think about your brother going to Beijing?" Shi Ji was a little surprised and couldn't comprehend the meaning of his words for a while.She looked up at her husband, startled, seeing confusion in his expression. "What's wrong with brother?" "Oh, forget it." Changzheng sighed as if remembering something, "Chacha is still waiting. You hurry up and make it for her." After speaking, he walked away.Shi Ji couldn't help but stop what she was doing, looked at her husband's back, and then at her beloved daughter.Father-in-law Jiuzheng must say "righteousness" when he speaks.Shi Ji knew that her father-in-law looked gentler than her husband in appearance, but had a more intense personality than her husband.When it comes to her elder brother, Shi Ji really finds it difficult to judge.Some people around called him a "big bastard", and some praised him as a "tool to calm the world". Some said he was extremely cruel, while others thought he was considerate and kind, and even shed tears because of being moved.Nobunaga loves Shi Ji in every possible way, so she respects and misses Nobunaga very much.

Similarly, in the eyes of Tokuhime who married into the Tokugawa family, Nobunaga is a respectable father; married to Takeda Katsuyori's family, the adopted daughter Yukihime (the eldest daughter of Nobunaga's sister-in-law Toyama Kantaro) who died of postpartum weakness ) also respect Nobunaga. "Women are so unfortunate, but so cute." Nobunaga really shed tears when holding his sister and daughter. Ichiji had already heard about the fact that her brother specially held a sumo match on the way to Beijing, and then enjoyed flower viewing in the capital.The father-in-law has a calm temperament and speaks slowly, but when he heard about Nobunaga's long-term stay in the capital, he reminded sharply: "Don't take it lightly. The boss is cruel."

Hearing that Ichihime's sister-in-law Nohime was called by Nobunaga from Gifu City to the capital, Hisamasa ignored Ichihime's feelings and warned: "Those boxes containing Mrs. The muskets that attacked Asakura." This made Nohime and his party, who were going to detour to visit Ashi, finally did not enter Xiaogu Castle.Jiuzheng smiled disdainfully: "Maybe the one who went to the capital is not Mrs. Nong, but a substitute." Why does my brother make my father-in-law so suspicious?Shi Ji thinks that her brother Nobunaga is at least not hostile, and doesn't think he is so cruel, but Jiuzheng has great distrust of Nobunaga.In Hisamasa's view, Nobunaga could not be forgiven no matter what. He killed his brother Nobuyuki, and drove Mrs. Nong's nephew Saito Yoshiki out of Gifu City, and then swaggered in.

"Just wait and see, our family also wants to..." Hearing Hisamasa's words, Ichihime felt very painful, and Nagamasa seemed very sad too. "There are always people with different temperaments in the world. My father and Brother Ling probably belong to this category." Hearing her husband's comfort, Shi Ji firmly stated that if such a tragedy happened, she would risk her life to persuade her.What exactly is brother doing in Beijing?The husband's expression was evasive, and he hesitated to speak, which made Shi Ji feel uneasy no matter what. "Chacha, come, fold it. Good boy, play here first."

Shi Ji clapped her hands and called the maid, quietly arranged her clothes, and left the room.The sun is shining brightly.Shi Ji guessed that her husband must be lost in thought in the bedroom.She decided to find out. As Ichihime expected, Asai Nagamasa was in the small academy where he could see Mt. Torahime, while wiping his beloved knife while meditating. "My lord, can I come in as a concubine?" Nagamasa glanced at Ichihime, but continued to wipe the knife in his hand without answering. "What did brother do in the capital?" "This……" "I am very worried. Please tell me."

Changzheng put down the knife.Seeing the uneasy expression of his wife kneeling in front of him, he couldn't help feeling a pain in his heart. "I know Nobunaga's ambition very well." "You mean—" "He wants to unify the world... In order to achieve this goal, he wants to remove all obstacles. Ah Shi, this is not an ordinary ambition, it is a great ambition. He believes that only he can quell the troubled times... But in the eyes of outsiders, this kind of grand ambition The ambition is too arrogant." Shi Ji tilted her head and looked at her husband, silent.

"Asakura Yoshikage has always looked down on your elder brother, thinking that he is just a sidekick who doesn't know the heights of heaven and earth. Behind Yoshikage, there are actually forces such as Honganji, Mount Hiei and the general who are dissatisfied with Nobunaga. Yoshikage-kun obviously already knows The dissatisfaction of these forces, otherwise, he will probably go to Beijing immediately..." "So, there must be a battle between my brother and Asakura?" "Ashi, no matter what happens, don't panic. You are my Nagamasa's wife and the mother of my daughter."

"yes." "Actually, Echizen Asakura has sent veteran Yamazaki Nagato Moriyoshi's family as a secret envoy to our city." "My lord, Ah Shi is your wife, please explain yourself...... No matter what happens, I will take it calmly." Changzheng nodded, stared at her for a while, and said, "Chaocang..." "What's wrong……" "Forcing me to break the oath I made with Mr. Nobunaga." "So... are you going to fight brother?" Nagamasa turned his face away and nodded: "The emissary claimed to be the remnant party of the Miyoshi, and said that he planned to unite Takeda from Kai, monks from Honganji Temple and monks from Mt. Hiei to defeat Nobunaga. Otherwise, Asai and Asakura would be killed. Nobunaga stepped down. I made an excuse to think carefully, and asked the emissary to go to Sannou Garden to wait for an answer..." He suddenly stopped talking.It was too cruel to confess these things to an unsuspecting wife.Even Changzheng himself was at a loss, how could a woman understand? At this moment, the personal attendant Koshiro Kimura came in. "My lord, the messenger wants you to go to Sanwang Garden immediately." "Oh, you tell him, I'll be there right away." Changzheng replied softly, and then stood up, "Ashi, you don't have to worry. I have my own arrangements, you can go back to the child." His tone was soft, but there was a gloomy look on his brows densely covered. When Nagamasa came to Sannoen where his father lived, the Echizen Asakura clan sent a second envoy to visit Nagamasa's father.The father asked the two envoys to wait at the posthouse, and called his son into the room: "Nagamasa, Nobunaga has entered Tsuruga." "what?" "The second envoy is here on a flying horse. There is no more hesitation, and a decision must be made immediately." The expression of Jiuzheng, who was nearly sixty years old, was even more serious than that of Nagamasa. "We formed an alliance with the three generations of the Asakura family. Do you choose righteousness or the love of husband and wife?" Jiuzheng wanted to test his son's mind, paused and said, "We must give a clear answer to the other party." Changzheng sat down slowly in front of his father, looking at the green leaves outside the window. "The leaves are green." "Oh. Soon the cuckoo will be heard, and there will be a war." "Father." Changzheng no longer hesitated, with a bold smile on his face. "I would like to ask my father, which side to support is in the interest of our family and the world?" "The Asakura family asked us to send troops immediately to cut off Nobunaga's retreat. They said that if there was a field battle, it would be a different matter; if they fought in the mountains, they would definitely have the confidence to defeat Nobunaga..." "Father, will the Takeda of Kai, the monks of Honganji Temple and the monks of Mt. Hiei really rise up to support us as Asakura expected?" "If Nobunaga is killed, there is no need for them to rise up and resist." "For the sake of prudence, I only ask this question. After the death of Nobunaga, who can calm the world?" "This……" "Will Asakura submit to Takeda, or will Takeda bow to Asakura?" "..." "I'm afraid that the Ertiao City and the imperial palace that were built with great difficulty will be destroyed once again." "Nagamasa, you are trying to persuade me. You want to say that if you support the Asakura family, I, the Asai family, will have no place to stand. Even if you think about the common people in the world, you can't support Asakura, right?" "Father, that's right." "I understand. Nagamasa, since the position of family governor has been handed over to you, if I, a reclusive old man, say more, it will only bring chaos to the family... But I have one thing to ask, is it allowed to support Asakura alone? ? The Asai family has been safe and sound so far, precisely because of the support of the Asakura family behind them. I dare not violate the word 'righteousness'." Hisamasa fell down on the tatami, crying. According to Hisamasa's idea, there is the Asakura family in Echizen, and the Asai family in Kita Omi.Originally, the Asai family had always been shrouded in the shadow of Sasaki Genji's Rokkaku and Kyogoku families, and it was difficult to perform, thanks to the support of the Asakura family. "Nagamasa." Jiuzheng said, "It's not that I can't see the trend of the times, but I am willing to die to abide by the righteousness." Changzheng didn't answer, as if a cold wind had blown into his heart.It's not that he doesn't understand his father's choice, but in his opinion, Asai no longer has to fulfill this obligation to the Asakura clan.Although the Asakura family blocked the forces of Rokkaku and Kyogoku for the Asai family, the Asai family also prevented Mino Saito Michizo and his son from infiltrating Echizen.Not only that, for the sake of the Asakura clan, Asai even asked Nagamasa's sister Totsuhime to marry Ryuko of Inaba Mountain.After Long Xing was expelled by Nobunaga, Du Ji had no choice but to return to Xiaogu City. From then on, she lived in seclusion and lived a miserable life.Asai's and Asakura's contacts are just what they need. Now that the situation has changed, this matter should be reconsidered. "Changzheng, don't you understand how it feels to be a father?" "Son understands..." "Now that I understand, you still want to stop me?" Changzheng was silent.There are also many veterans in the family who don't like Nobunaga, such as Endo Kiemon, Yukari Rokurozaemon and so on.But Nagamasa believes that Nobunaga will not be defeated by Asakura Yoshikage anyway, but isn't that going to send his father to Nobunaga's sword to die? "Father, can't you give up this idea?" "The envoy said that this matter is urgent. According to common sense, the decision-making is delayed, and the victory can also become a defeat." The warm southeast wind gently caressed the skin, and Changzheng suddenly felt inexplicable anger.What is the so-called righteousness?Didn't Asakura Yoshikage shamelessly interfere when he and Ichihie made a marriage contract? Because of Asakura's obstruction, he finally married Shi Ji three years later.Nobunaga, who has always been known for his violent temper, did not get angry during those three years, and made up his mind to form an alliance with the three families of Asakura, Asai, and Oda. Of course, he considered that Otani Castle was the only place to pass from Gifu to Beijing, and at the same time he wanted to avoid being enemies with Asai and Asakura.If Asakura Yoshikage could enter Beijing obediently, this war would definitely not have happened.It is the narrowness of justice and ignorance of current affairs that lead to the resurgence of wars. "My son understands. I respect your opinion." The sun was shining brightly, but Changzheng felt sad, and his voice was a little indifferent. "Ah, you agree?" "Yes. Changzheng is also a stalwart warrior. He doesn't want to be ridiculed for sending his father to other people's butcher's knife because of the love of his children." "The situation in the war is changing rapidly, and no one knows which side will win." "certainly……" "Nagamasa, let me go alone. If Asakura wins, father will try his best to keep you and Ichihime safe. You did not support Asakura. If God knows, you will still be safe. Do you think how?" "Father!" Nagamasa blushed, "You always teach us to be loyal to righteousness. This is not like what you said...A real warrior should transcend life and death. Victory or defeat. Whether you win or lose, you will never back down. With It is the son's duty to live and die together with the father." "Oh? Well... I thought you wouldn't agree." "Father, no matter what the outcome of this war is, Ashi should not be condemned. Please don't blame her." "Of course. Since she is married, she is a member of our Asai family. How can I be so narrow-minded? How about we call Yamazaki Nagato here immediately?" Hisashi had a smile on his face and clapped his hands happily. Passing the servant boy, "Please come here with the emissary of the Asakura family. This time, Nobunaga has thrown himself into the trap." Hisama hated Nobunaga very much, and had confidence in winning this war. Yamazaki Nagato is here.He raised his pale face and his eyes were tense, as if he wanted to see what decision the father and son had made. "The weather is fine!" He coughed dryly.Hisamasa said, "Nagato, Beishu has decided to raid Nobunaga with me." "This... this..." Nagato, who had just passed his forties, immediately smiled when he heard this, "So, we will win. Now that you two have made up your mind, I might as well tell you the truth. In fact, my lord The refusal to enter Beijing this time is entirely a strategy, and it was decided after discussing with General Yi Zhao." "General..." Changzheng interrupted in surprise. Nagato smiled and nodded: "If Nobunaga is impatient, he will go to attack Echizen very quickly. At that time, he will be the turtle in the urn... Haha, it really hit the mark." "The general has been..." "That's right. He wrote secret letters to my lord more than once, asking for a crusade against Nobunaga." "Oh?" Changzheng was dumbfounded as if someone had poured cold water on his head.The ungrateful and treacherous general! On the afternoon of April 26.Echizen Tsuruga County, at the foot of Muya Ridge in the north of Habara. The mountains that have woken up from the long winter are full of greenery, and there are dots of withered leaf-colored flags scattered in the emerald green of the mountains, waving in the wind.The Oda Army, which departed from Omi Sakamoto Castle on the 20th, entered Tsuruga Castle on the 25th and joined Ieyasu's Mikawa Army.The Oda army is as powerful as a rainbow, and after crossing Muya Ridge, they can go straight to the Asakura family's lair, Yicheng Valley. In front of Tsuruga Castle is Kanazaki Castle, where Asakura Yoshikage's cousin, known as the invincible Asakura Keihime, is stationed here.He attempted to block the way of the Oda and Tokugawa allied forces by relying on Mt. Mt. and Kanezaki Castle, but he was defeated at the first touch. "They are good at fighting in the field, but if they fight in the mountains..." he originally thought so.But the opponent came over as if covering the sky and covering the sun, and even the common people were impressed by his aura: "What a mighty army!" The vermilion Zhangba long spear battalion, the musket battalion advancing forward in four rows, and the cavalry like tigers on the mountain, dazzling like flowers blooming in the wilderness of the Northland.They quickly subdued the soldiers defending the city. "The Oda Army is indeed extraordinary." "In comparison, Asakura is nothing." "Is the general trend of the world settled?" The army captured Jinqi in just one day, crossed the Handong Mountain on the second day, and pushed it to Muya Ridge.No matter how many reinforcements were sent from Yicheng Valley, the defeated soldiers who had retreated to the top of the mountain had no place to stand. In the vanguard of Oda is Katsuie Shibata, followed by Mitsuhide Akechi.The Tokugawa Army was on the left side of the Oda Army. They pressed on along the coast, and also showed amazing combat effectiveness. Seeing that the vanguard Shibata had already controlled the road leading to Muya Ridge, Nobunaga jumped off the steed "Sharp Black" gifted to him by Takeda Shingen, took off his uniform, ordered the whole army to make stoves and cook, and then walked into the ranks . "Call Mitsuhide." Nobunaga wiped the sweat from his forehead while ordering, "Passing through the checkpoint, it's the final battle. Mitsuhide is familiar with the location here, so call him here." Mori Sanzaemon's eldest son, Mori Cho, walked away knowingly, and after a while, he came with Mitsuhide.Mitsuhide seemed to have just taken off his helmet, his sparse temples were still steaming.He came to Nobunaga's seat and knelt down on one knee. "Guangxiu, after passing the test, don't leave me for half a step." "You mean..." Mitsuhide still spoke in a heavy tone, looking at Nobunaga puzzled. "Hahaha, do you think I'm on guard?" "No no, I dare not." "You're lying, your eyes already show it. Don't worry, even though you are Yoshikage's retainer, I, Nobunaga, will never be petty and suspicious of you." "My lord, forgive me, I am too worried." "Mitsuhide, I'm going to win Echijogaya in one fell swoop tomorrow. The question now is: who can come and govern Echizen?" Mitsuhide didn't answer right away.Appointing someone to govern Echizen did matter.What on earth was Nobunaga thinking, to discuss such an important matter with himself first?No wonder Mitsuhide was suspicious. After making some calculations, he thought it was hopeless to seek refuge with Nobunaga, so he went straight to Asakura's house. He once followed the strange monk Suifeng, and visited Hataro Takenouchi with him. Yahataro recommended him to Nobunaga, but after seeing Nobunaga, he was not used to Nobunaga's rudeness and turned to Asakura. . Nobunaga scoffed at upbringing and tradition.This is really unbearable for Guangxiu who takes pride in his upbringing.Yoshikage Asakura of Echizen is a man of elegance.He lives in Yicheng Valley and has always maintained an elegant style of life.In August of the second year of Yonglu, Asakura Yoshikage even specially invited all the officials from Kyoto to hold a Qushui Banquet in Awaga River Plain.Yijun of Dajue Temple, Nayan Xiuyuan of the Four Overlords, and Nayan Yajiao of Asuka Jing were all present. Yijing wrote a poem at the banquet: 〖The flow of flowers and water in the old days, An autumn leaf in the mountains. I don't know where? My heart is cold and sad. 〗 This kind of elegant behavior attracted the well-bred Mitsuhide, and finally made him go to him.But after a while, Guangxiu was rather disappointed.Although Yijing knows elegance, he is not bold; although he has strength of character, he is not strong. At this time, Ashikaga Yoshiaki (later Yoshiaki) in exile, accompanied by Hosokawa Fujitaka, came to visit Yoshikage.If Yijing acted decisively, he should take the opportunity to embrace Yiqiu and go to Beijing to attack Song Yongxiu, but Yijing with such strength did not take any action. Hosokawa Fujitaka left with Yoshiaki in disappointment, and Mitsuhide was also in despair.Fang Fang understands that elegance and decisiveness cannot coexist.Only those who are decisive can pacify the world... After thinking twice, he and Fujitaka brought Yoshiaki to Nobunaga, and he has since become Nobunaga's retainer.Nobunaga welcomed Guangxiu very much, and immediately gave him a salary of 80,000 shi, and entrusted him with the post of commanding the army.While Mitsuhide was grateful to Nobunaga, he also felt ashamed. "You have stayed in Echizen before, so you should know the customs there." "Yes. I think Mr. Shibata, a vanguard officer with outstanding martial arts skills, is the most suitable..." Before the words finished, Nobunaga laughed loudly: "I don't like your answer, I don't like it, Mitsuhide." "Then, my lord thinks—" "Why don't you talk about yourself? I already have a bottom line in my heart, but it's hard to manage once the valley is broken. Where do you think the new city should be built?" "I... think it's best to build it in Beizhuang (Fukui)." At this time, there was a sudden commotion outside the tent.It seems that there is an urgent report about the horse.Nobunaga and Mitsuhide couldn't help listening.The sound of horseshoes overshadowed the noise and stopped outside the tent. "Who is the visitor?" Only the guard asked. "The messenger of Otani Castle Asai Bizen. Please inform Nobunaga-kun." The voice of the answerer was rough. Nobunaga sighed inwardly.Hearing the envoy's self-report, he felt ominous, and a nameless anger rushed from his chest to the top of his head, like a flash of lightning in the blue sky.According to his previous temper, he would undoubtedly yell at him immediately, and he might even jump out, without saying a word, and beat and kicked the messenger.But now, he tightly closed his lips, suppressing his anger.Instead of getting angry, it's better to think about countermeasures - the current status makes him have to pay attention to propriety. Mitsuhide stared at Nobunaga solemnly.Suddenly, Nobunaga burst out laughing.At this time, Mori Kecheng walked in: "Asai Beizhou from Xiaogucheng..." "Let him in!" Nobunaga interrupted him, yelled angrily, turned his head to look at Mitsuhide, "Stop the attack. Call the generals here. Also, don't let Matsunaga Hideo escape." Song Yongxiu has a lot of strategies in his belly, as long as he has the opportunity, he will make waves in the capital.So Nobunaga specially took him on this expedition. Onogi Tosa, Asai Nagamasa's emissary, walked in with Mori Nagako, and passed by Mitsuhide who was about to go out.Tosa was sweating profusely and his face was ashen.The sun is shining brightly, as if laughing at the world running around. "Tosa Onogi, you don't have to tell me, I already know. Take out the affidavit." Nobunaga hit the ground with his love knife. "Please allow me to finish." Tosa retorted, "Your Excellency first violated the oath of the Asai, Asakura and Oda families and attacked Asakura. I, the Asai family, have always neglected profit and righteousness, and will never join forces with you. The friendship ends here. Now return the oath, and we will meet each other in battle from now on. This is my lord's oral message." "Hahaha..." Nobunaga laughed wildly, "Tosa, don't tremble, I won't kill you. Go back and tell Beizhou: the frog at the bottom of the well knows the ambition of the great swan?" "Here's the affidavit." "Okay, see you on the battlefield! Come, bring hot soup to the messenger." Tosa glanced at Nobunaga, walked out with his head held high, his face still gloomy. Nobunaga stood up, unable to calm down for a long time.He was about to encounter Echizen's elite troops ahead, but Asai behind him suddenly cut off his retreat.An ominous feeling came to my heart.It happened so quickly, just as he had been secretly fearing. "My lord, what's the matter?" Mitsuhide had obviously conveyed the order, and Kinoshita Hideyoshi ran in first. Fujikichiro changed his name to Hideyoshi because he was praised by Nobunaga for his courage to endure hardships when he attacked Ise North Island: "It is almost comparable to Asahina Saburo Yoshihide." So Yoshihide's name was reversed and became Hideyoshi, Considering that the word "righteousness" is the same as the word "righteousness" of General Yizhao, the meaning was changed to "ji" to avoid taboo. "Monkey! That bastard Asai has taken refuge in Asakura." Hearing what Nobunaga said, even Hideyoshi, who has always been capable and steady, couldn't help sighing: "It's a pity!" The Oda army has entered Echizen and deliberately lured the enemy out of the Ichijo Valley.If you retreat here, the opponent will definitely take advantage of the situation to pursue, and the retreat has been cut off by the main force of the Asai Army who is familiar with the terrain.It's not just Asai and Asakura who are playing tricks, General Yoshiaki is also hiding behind the scenes, planning a conspiracy ignorantly... But now I understand, it's too late. "So... what are your master's plans?" Nobunaga did not answer.He frowned tightly, his eyes widened angrily, and trampled back and forth on the tender grass under his feet. Mori Sanzaemon came in.Immediately afterwards, Niwa Chohide, Sasasa Narumasa, and Katsuie Shibata at the forefront also walked in wearing a blood-stained uniform, and said, "My lord, I heard that bastard Asai fell to Asakura." Nobunaga still didn't answer.In any case, one must be very cautious in advancing and retreating... Thinking of this, the anger burned again.He married his favorite younger sister to Nagamasa, repelled the old enemy Liujiao clan for them, and swore that no matter what happened, he would keep Asai clan safe. Thinking that he is still fighting back at the critical moment... Sakumaemon also walked in angrily.Immediately behind him was Maeda Toshiie, the general of the right wing, who was still holding the blood-stained bridle in his hand: "My lord! What should I do?" Next came Sakai Ukon and Tokugawa Ieyasu.Seeing Ieyasu, Nobunaga felt even more painful. When Mitsuhide Akechi was ordered to bring Matsunaga Hide over, Nobunaga finally raised his head and glanced at the generals, and said, "You probably have heard about it too. At this critical moment, someone turned their backs." Everyone fell into silence for a while, and there was a dead silence inside the tent, and the sound of the stream outside the tent could even be heard. "If I, Nobunaga, were defeated by mere Asakura, it would be a great shame! Now I can only obey God's will. The generals obey the order: attack Ichijo Valley immediately. If the military luck lasts, first defeat Asakura, and then return to attack Asai; if If your martial luck declines, you will die generously." "Yes!" Sheng Jia said, "Let the Yicheng Valley be leveled!" "Exactly! There is nothing else to do." Just as everyone expressed their approval, Ieyasu, who was sitting opposite Nobunaga, waved his military fan violently, got up and said, "Mr. Oda, please slow down." "Hamamatsu, do you have any objections?" Nobunaga pressed. Ieyasu nodded slowly and said, "This doesn't look like Mr. Oda's style, it's too short-sighted." The eyes of all the generals focused on Ieyasu at the same time, and the sound of rushing water came from outside the tent again.Everyone suddenly looked at Ieyasu, and then at Nobunaga.Because according to Nobunaga's nature, he would not listen to other people's opinions no matter what.No one has ever refuted or voiced opposition to his decision.However, Ieyasu took his time and raised objections directly. Nobunaga immediately jumped up, "Let's talk about it. How can I be short-sighted?" "Hmm..." Ieyasu looked calmly and looked straight at Nobunaga, "Asai Nagamasa specially sent someone to return the affidavit, what do you think?" "That is the ignorance of those who only understand the little things." "If you think so, I beg to differ." "Does Hamamatsu think that behind Nagamasa's behavior, there is another deep meaning?" Ieyasu stared at Nobunaga and shook his head slightly: "I don't mean that. Even if he has other intentions, we can't trust him lightly. I just want you not to forget his upright nature... He clearly thinks that if he doesn't return oath, but the heart cannot be at peace.” Nobunaga snorted, and his expression gradually softened: "You might as well speak up. I'm all ears." "Nobunaga, your enemy is not just the Asakura family. If you confront them for a long time, both the capital and Gifu City will be in danger. It is better to pretend to attack, but withdraw immediately. According to Ieyasu, Asai and his son may not have blocked the way of retreat. " "..." "Most upright generals are good at protracted warfare, not to mention that they have returned their oaths and are ready for protracted warfare... If you have any worries about this, then my family will be the Queen of Kang, and our army will observe the movement of the Chaocang army , while retreating in the direction of Kyoto." Nobunaga nodded and laughed loudly: "Everyone, what do you think of Hamamatsu's opinion?" "My lord." Hideyoshi said first, "Just as Hamamatsu said. I also think that we should retreat immediately." "Singer, what about you?" "I object. If we uproot the Asakura family, the Asai army will be defeated without a fight. If they retreat out of fear of the Asakura family, there will be no majesty in the future." "Where's the Li family?" "Zaixia agrees with Kinoshita." "How long?" "I agree with Shibata's opinion." "Hahaha..." Nobunaga laughed, "What's Jiuxiu's opinion?" Jiu Xiu smiled at Nobunaga: "Let the adults decide." Ieyasu turned to look at Nobunaga: "Please make a quick decision. Asai's envoy has already flown back to Xiaogu Castle." Having said that, Nobunaga finally made up his mind.As expected of Iekang, he can always be as stable as Mount Tai at critical moments.If they retreat immediately, Asai and his son may have just led their troops out of the city. "Okay! Let's come back another day," Nobunaga roared, "and take his head again another day. It's not a shame! I, Nobunaga, have the highest ambition in the world." "My lord's words are very true!" Hideyoshi was the first to knelt on the ground, "But you can't let Hamamatsu-sama bear this burden alone, and assign military affairs to Hideyoshi." Nobunaga and Ieyasu looked at each other.If no one asks for orders at this time, Nobunaga will feel ashamed of Ieyasu.Only this monkey can take the initiative to ask for help in the most critical time.Rather than saying that he has courage, it is better to say that he is constantly sharpening himself.What a man of insight! "Can you complete the task beautifully?" "Please trust my resourcefulness, Hideyoshi." "You monkey, you are not humble. Well then, Hamamatsu, let's meet in the capital." The generals breathed a sigh of relief and followed Nobunaga.They are very aware of the danger of continuing to stay here after being attacked by enemies.The Oda army came from a long distance, unfamiliar with the terrain, and it would be very difficult to retreat, and they had to actively seek a way out... But now that Ieyasu and Hideyoshi are there, the situation is different. Nobunaga returned to Kanazaki Castle and made arrangements for the retreat, leaving only Mori Sanzaemon and Matsunaga Dansho by his side, preparing to cross Kuchiki Valley.All the generals went out of the tent one after another, and only Kinoshita Hideyoshi and Ieyasu were left. Hideyoshi walked up to Ieyasu who clasped his hands tightly, and said with one hand: "Master Hamamatsu, Hideyoshi will remember what you said today." "I just want to remind Mr. Oda." "Ah, if you don't have great courage, how can you say those words? In this way, the lord will be saved." Hideyoshi said this, with a smile on his face, and said: "Please also retreat first!" Ieyasu couldn't help but looked at Hideyoshi again in surprise.Even Nobunaga found it difficult to retreat, how could this little man in front of him be able to stand behind alone? "Kinoshita, you should have heard the promise I made to Lord Oda. Let's see how Ieyasu repelled the Asakura army's pursuit." "Thank you very much for your kindness." Hideyoshi smiled and bowed his head in thanks, "I have kept it in my heart, but I have to refuse. Please retreat quickly!" Ieyasu couldn't help but look at Hideyoshi in front of him again.This is a man who is fearless.His smile is rare in the world, like a playful urchin, short in stature and slender in bone.However, it is such a small man who actually told Nobunaga that he is the source of resourcefulness... "Kinoshita, do you mean that our continued presence here will only hinder you?" "Don't dare dare!" Hideyoshi laughed, "It's just that when Asakura's bastards are chasing, if they disturb Lord Hamamatsu, Hideyoshi may be reprimanded by the lord." "Oh?" Ieyasu's eyes seemed to see through the other party, "You mean to say that there are talents in the Oda family?" "Don't dare dare!" Hideyoshi laughed again, the laughter was very crisp, "You are so young, so loyal, so brave and fearless, you are as important as my master, if an accident happens, it will be a pain for the world. Therefore Please leave this place to me, please retreat quickly!" "Your praise makes me ashamed. But if you say it like this, I can't take the lead in retreating..." "Please don't hesitate, retreat quickly!" "If you make a slight mistake, I'm afraid you will be unable to support yourself. Can you guarantee that nothing will go wrong?" "Haha," Hideyoshi laughed heartily, "This battle is full of difficulties and dangers, and I ask you to retreat first for your safety." "Oh, there is something interesting in that." "Hamamatsu-sama, I'm nothing more than an ashigaru samurai." "I've heard about your family history." "Because you are an ashigaru samurai, you don't value life so much. No matter what kind of battle, you must fight with the heart of death. Even if you die in battle, you will have no complaints. But you come from a famous family, you can't be like I act casually like this." Hideyoshi returned to his usual tone.However courteous and respectful the tone may be at first, it always ends in first-rate didacticism.Ieyasu stared at Hideyoshi's lips in silence. "Although I am considered to be in the forefront of the people, I only own a territory of 30,000 koku in the Omi-Imahama region, and my subordinates are no more than 700 people. With this meager strength, I can fight against the Echizen army, which has a full supply of 800,000 koku, even if I am smashed to pieces. I will never regret it. I came from a humble background, and I am very content to own a territory of 30,000 shi. But Hamamatsu-sama is just the opposite. You already own Sanhe and Yuanjiang, and the momentum is like the rising sun, and the territory is expanding rapidly. Although the current salary is only 600,000 shi, but who can predict what will happen tomorrow? If you are asked to fight a war where a person with 30,000 shi is enough to deal with it, if something unexpected happens, not only will my lord be laughed at by the world, but he will go to the underworld will also be condemned. So please listen to me anyway." Ieyasu didn't seem to listen, but still stared closely at Hideyoshi's unbelievable lips. "Okay, then it's up to you. Ieyasu retreats first. I will go to Wakasa's Kohama, cross the needle field, and get out of the pommel horse. If you pass smoothly, you can retreat with confidence." "I am very grateful. Then we will see you in Kyoto." Ieyasu stood up, and Hideyoshi quickly followed, flicking the dust off the uniform with ease. Normally, Nobunaga was fierce and high-spirited in battle, but when retreating, he joked. "In the world, there is a saying of 'the fall of the capital', and I, Nobunaga, probably tasted the feeling of 'the fall of Kanezaki Castle' for the first time. Jiu Xiu, you probably regret not staying in Yamato Castle at this time, right?" Since Shibata, Sakuma, Niwa, and Maeda were asked to lead the retreat, Nobunaga had less than 300 cavalry.After crossing Kuchiki Valley, they will head towards Kyoto from Takashima County, Jiangzhou.Nobunaga talked and laughed along the way.When he sees the young leaves on the tree, he will suddenly smile knowingly, and occasionally squint his eyes to appreciate the mountain scenery, and his words are sarcasm from time to time, but his tone is soft, not as loud as he was during the battle. "Nobunaga is doubting my character, Matsunaga Tansho." "Where there is. Your resourcefulness is unparalleled in the world, so I won't let you leave my side." Matsunaga Hideo, who walked side by side with Nobunaga, let the strong wind mess up his gray hair, with a worried look on his face.正是他智勇双全，除掉了将军义辉，又平息了三好三人众的叛乱，想要称霸京城。他根本没想到会被信长打败，受其控制。正如信长所言，如果久秀此时留在京城，无疑会不失时机分兵给浅井氏，以袭击岐阜城，他自己则可以从大和城向和泉、摄津一带推进，从而消灭信长在京都的势力。 久秀和信长，都失算了。但令久秀感到不可思议的是：性格倔强、急躁的信长既然如此了解他的心思，为何迟迟不杀掉他呢？ “织田公，既然久秀如此不值得信任，不如索性取了我项上人头吧。” “哈哈哈……像你这种人，即使没有了头，仍然是要算计的。” "Oh?" “有时，毒草能治病。你就是这种毒草，因而我要让你活着。听好了，久秀，若我什么时候掉以轻心，你随时可以取我性命。” “大人真会开玩笑。这么一说，久秀更无颜立足了。” “你还谈何颜面？入水，你是深渊里的河童；在山，你是只狡猾的老狐狸……”正说着，信长突然大声叫着“三左”，将与他隔了两三骑的森三左卫门叫到身边。人马已经进入近江山中，正向朽木谷逼近。岩石点缀在茂密的树丛中，可以看到狭窄的山路尽头，朽木信浓守元纲的官邸。“你先前去，让朽木元纲为我安排住宿。” “是。”森三左卫门领着十六个贴身侍卫，纵马而去，踏上荆棘丛生的狭窄山路。 昨晚，亦即二十七日夜，信长在佐柿城受到了粟屋越中守的热情款待。他似乎认为在这里也能得到同样的待遇。森三左卫门的身影消失后，松永久秀竟在马背上呵呵地笑起来。 “久秀，笑什么？”信长问道。 久秀立刻恢复严肃的表情，转头道：“深渊的河童、山中的狐狸？可是照我这老狐狸的看法，朽木元纲不会轻易让我们过了这朽木谷。” “你是说元纲也要背叛我？” “正是。元纲虽是佐佐木、浅井氏的敌人，对您却尤为不满。如果他和浅井家勾结，在此对付您，那么……” “停！”没等久秀说完，信长就挥手让队伍停止前进。久秀所说不无道理。信长让秀吉殿后，撤出敦贺城后，一直在思索应于何处，以及如何才能击败浅井、朝仓的联军，根本无暇去琢磨朽木元纲的心思。 “久秀！”信长又恢复了战斗时的声音和雄姿。他目光如炬，紧紧盯住久秀，头脑中已经在盘算接下来的战役部署了。“你现在明白我带你在身边的用意了吧？” "You mean..." “三左回来后，就轮到你这只老狐狸出动了。” 久秀笑道：“在下明白。” "you know?" “是。既然进是死，退亦死，我早已抱定了必死的决心。闻名大和城的老狐狸，怎会被朽木谷的小狐狸打垮？” “真是无毒不丈夫啊，哈哈哈！” 夕阳西下，晚霞灿然，两侧的悬崖直指苍穹，他们要在这里和敌人一起迎接天明了。 “织田公，”久秀皱起眉头，正色道，“我会用尽方法让元纲前来归顺。若他同意，我会带他的人质前来迎接您。倘若我没回来，定是与朽木同归于尽了。那时，您再另谋他路吧。” 信长轻轻点了点头：“久秀，不必担心。你若认为我信长竟然无能到会被朽木这种鼠辈算计，那你可以和朽木联起手来取我性命。” 松永弹正微微笑了。信长对他无半点信任。即便如此，久秀仍然下定决心要前去劝说朽木归顺。 不久，就看见森三左卫门从暮色苍茫的山间小路上气喘吁吁纵马回来。“主公，元纲披挂整齐，好像在暗中调兵，不肯给我们开门。” “知道了，知道了。”信长面向群山狂笑起来，“不必担心。这里有只更精明的老狐狸。” 松永久秀面带笑容地看着森三左卫门从马背上跳下：“稍后你们就可见识我的三寸不烂之舌了。” “哦，你的口气还真不小。”信长猛地调转马头，指着朽木官邸的方向，怒喝道：“前进！” 久秀收起笑容，对三名侍从道：“跟我来！”其势仿佛要与朽木决斗一般。 看到久秀远去的背影，信长又高声笑了。万一久秀失败……这种担心对于信长来说是多余的，因为他有足够的自信，他不相信自己这样的人物会在这里丢掉性命。 前往朽木府邸的松永久秀也是同样的心情。连义辉将军和三好乱党都能对付，怎会说服不了朽木这个鼠辈，而让信长取他的性命？ 但信长还是有点害怕，并非基于理性，而是来自闪电般的直觉。这种直觉往往能让他看透世事的真相。如果自己身上有致命的弱点，那就任由久秀和朽木前来取自己的人头，这种话虽然充满了必胜的自信，但又刺耳可恨。 等着瞧吧，我久秀要现出你信长所无之能！久秀策马扬鞭，迅速来到朽木府邸门前。 “什么人？”三个全副武装的家丁，挺起长枪，挡住了久秀。 久秀眯缝起眼打量着周围：“辛苦了。” 他缓缓抬头望着门前的那颗大榉树，“哦，这棵树的年龄不小了，大概有六七百年了吧。” 挺枪而立的家丁们一时不知如何是好，怔怔地站着：“您从哪里来？” “哦，我？告诉朽木元纲，多谢他重兵把守。我松永弹正久秀从织田阵中前来拜望，快去通报！” “什么？”家丁们简直难以置信，但被久秀的气势镇住，纳闷地进去禀报了。 久秀也不下马，悠然地欣赏着周围的暮色。门内处处挂起灯笼，点燃火把，好像要防止信长夜间来袭。颧骨凸出、胡须飘飘的朽木元纲大步流星出得门来。 “朽木元纲吗？” “正是。听说松永弹正前来。” “今天真乃佳日。信长公和浅井长政，对你的好意都心领了。信长公既然来到此处，你还是派令郎前去迎接为宜。” “哼！”朽术元纲果然大怒。他听说信长和浅井长政已经分道扬镳，才与长政联手对付信长。松永久秀的话太不入耳。但浅井长政和信长对他朽木的好意心领了，这究竟是怎么回事？ “朽木。”久秀表情严厉，在随从的搀扶下慢慢下了马，“你难道认为没有必要迎接信长公吗？”他拍打着护腿甲，面带笑容走向元纲，“这就要怪贵方考虑不周了。朽木氏本是近江源氏佐佐木氏的分支，这次浅井长政和信长公联手欲过朽木谷，贵方既然全副武装，保护他们路上的安全，为何不尽表忠心呢？” “你是说这次翻越朽木谷的行动是织田、浅井两家商议的结果？” “嘘——这是秘密，不得随便道出。京城的将军有异动，因此要立刻回京。有密使从浅井过来……” 朽木元纲的表情顿时变得复杂。根据他所得到的情报，事情正好相反。本来是讨伐对象的信长，却前来感谢自己保护他——朽木懵了。 久秀哈哈笑了：“老朽总是喜欢多嘴。其实信长公不过是让我前来致谢，请你多多关照，仅此而已……至于出迎之事，还是请你自己定夺吧。” 元纲焦躁地打量着四周，慌慌张张地吩咐：“来人，快取坐垫来。” “不，时间不早了，我还得先回去。” “请稍候。” “你准备听老朽的建议，派令郎前去迎接了吗？啊呀，我可能是小肚鸡肠，他们虽然提出要借宿，但想到朽木过去毕竟是佐佐木一族……那就不太合宜了。” 老狐狸果然狡猾。首先扰乱对方的思维，然后不断暗示，直到对方信以为真。这时，下人搬来了椅子。 “生火。”元纲吩咐道，“要照亮山路，让信长公看清楚这里……” 元纲一边说一边歪头考虑了一会儿，又道：“还是出迎为好。请您稍候。” “哈哈哈……如果要派人去，老夫便安心等候。应该是令郎吧？” “正是。我会令长子和次子前去迎接。” “太好了。无论如何，将来的天下非信长公莫属。你的好意信长公定然铭刻在心。美酒和洗澡水就不必了，准备些开水就好。” “不不……我会一并准备齐全。” “太周到了。久秀再次表示谢意。我们明日就进京。京城里的布谷鸟已经开始鸣叫了吧。” “应该如此，应该如此……” 元纲一边应着，一边擦拭着额头的汗水，忙着吩咐手下准备出迎。久秀不做声，只轻轻地抚摸着下巴。