Legend of the Oda

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After King Resai and Queen Fuu sealed away Izanagi and Izanami, the last of the Onika. Long after King Ninigi's grandson became the first emperor. Long after the Taira fought for imperial rule and the Minamoto fought for warrior rule. Long after Kiyomori and Yoshitsune used Onika to fight each other. Long after Yoritomo Minamoto became the first Shogun. Sometime after the Onin war destroyed the peace of the land, destroyed the Shogun's authority, and 100 warring Samurai clans turned all of Japan into a massive battlefield... A king was born. This man walked a different path. He would forsake honor and tradition and use any means to win, no matter how taboo, as well as meet out any necessary punishment to his foes, no matter how cruel. In an era where a mighty clan like the Takeda, descendants of the Minamoto, would rise then fall, King Nobunaga Oda, a descendant of the Taira, would forge a path for unification. What prices would Nobunaga be willing to pay for such an ambitious goal?
1534 A King is born
In Owari, Nobuhide Oda was a man in a stressful situation. The Toki clan in Mino, the Imagawa and Matsudaira south of Owari in Suruga and Mikawa, the Azai in Omi and the Asakura clan. Not to mention the other Oda branch clan in his territory. He had enemies on all sides. He needed allies. He also had to consider that his choice of allies would also bring enemies forward. With all of that happening, he had another matter to attend to.
Masahide Hirate, his right-hand man, entered his room. "My lord, your wife is in labor! Your son will be here soon."
Nobuhide looked at Masahide briefly and continued looking at his maps.
Masahide approached him
"My lord..? Your son…."
Nobuhide interrupted him.
"I'm sorry, Hiro, I will see the boy after I've decided. Give the lady my best."
Masahide nodded.
"I understand, my lord, the weight of this decision in an age of hundreds of wars. Not just anyone could shoulder a burden such as that. But one more thing, what shall we call the young lord?"
Nobuhide quickly sketched some characters on his desk.
Masahide read it aloud.
"Kipposhi! Very well, my lord, I will attend to Kipposhi until you can rest. But please, don't stress yourself into an early grave."
Nobuhide smiled.
"Hiro, sometimes I think you are the only one who understands me. Please do watch Kipposhi. I feel he will do something great in the future. I'm starting to feel like Owari is a sinking ship, and I'm just plugging the hole, waiting for the one to fix it to come. Perhaps he is on his way. Please, Hiro, I need you to watch and guide him while I plug the holes."
Masahide was touched; he had never seen Nobuhide open up like this, and he had grown up with him. He could feel an ominous chill creep up his back. It was fate’s bitter cold hand. Everything was about to change. As it was, Kipposhi was born that night. Masahide Hirate would watch over and teach him. This child hated rules and authority. He would hate tradition and formalities. He was a one-of-a-kind rebel. This man would one day be known far and wide as Nobunaga Oda.
1534 The female Daimyo
An old monk found a bamboo Reed wrapped in a scroll. The monk was confused and called Sessai Taigen, a fellow monk related to the Imagawa clan.
Sessai Taigen looked at the other and spoke after a while.
"If this scroll is correct,  this reed is a blowgun. Sealed within is Dokubachi, the Oni that created hornets. This is truly a rare find!"
The old monk that discovered the Onika was overjoyed.
"This is great news. We can sell it for enough to get a great Buddha statue. Our karma will surely….."
He couldn’t finish his sentence because he fell over, a dart in his neck.
Sessai stood over the dying monk.
"I'm sorry, brother, but long have succession disputes held my clan back from greatness. This is exactly what we needed. My tactics and my nephew's natural abilities. We must leave the priesthood. I know this will affect our path, but I will make our clan the greatest in all the land."
Sessai stepped over him and immediately left the temple. He met with his sister Jukeini, wife of the late leader of the Imagawa.
"Dear brother, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?"
"Dear sister, it is I who owes a debt. Your time is so precious nowadays. Since the death of my lord, you've inherited many of your late husband's burdens. Ujiteru is such a focused boy; he simply can't attend to every matter."
Jukeini smiled softly.
"I'm more than aware of my responsibility. Most of Honshu has nicknamed me the female Daimyo. But you don't need to be so restrained. Ujiteru is a fool. Poem and games are all he does. That's all the fool has time for. So let me ask you less formally. What do you want?"
Sessai replied.
"I want the Imagawa to thrive."
"That is simple. Remove my idiot son. But know that when you do, your life will be forfeit. Also, my pride and joy, Shoho, will have to dispose of Etan Genko. But that is the way of the Imagawa. Ujichika had to kill his brother too. However, I have two problems. No one can kill Ujiteru.. they will be executed.. and Shoho is going to be a monk."
Sessai nodded.
"I must make preparations still, but I have the solution to all our problems. First, I acquired the Dokubachi. With it, we can remove Ujiteru whenever we are ready. As far as Shoho, I'll become his teacher and take him from the temple."
And so it was. Sessai and Jukeini started their plan to make the Imagawa great again. To make their plans come to fruition, they needed a powerful ally.
1535 A great plan to kill a great man
Kiyoyasu Matsudaira was a great statesman and diplomat. A skilled warrior with endless charisma. He united his and made certain all clans feared the might of Mikawa. Ujiteru Imagawa was terrified of him, so he did everything in his power to stay on his good side. Kiyoyasu defeated the Saigo clan and united Mikawa. Masatoyo Abe, a Matsudaira general who played a huge role in the battle, was tasked to create Okazaki Castle to commemorate the achievement. However, on the last day of construction….
A group of builders brought a sword to Masatoyo.
"We offer you a gift to help you get over the tragedy. This is a genuine Muramasa blade."
Masatoyo Abe looked at the weapon.
"I thank you for the sword; it's a priceless treasure. But I'm confused. I've suffered no tragedy. Okizaki Castle can be unveiled tomorrow! Things are well."
"Haven't you heard? Lord Kiyoyasu is going to execute Sadayoshi, your father. He has been failing in his duties, and Lord Kiyoyasu is making an example."
Masatoyo’s eyes widened in shock.
"Slander! My father is a good loyal man. He may be getting old, but…. no! Lord Kiyoyasu is a just leader! He wouldn't….."
Masatoyo quickly mounted his horse and rode to meet with his lord.
Meanwhile, outside of Hamamatsu Castle, Kiyoyasu was practicing formation with his army. Sadayoshi was also present. In a cruel twist of fate, he was kicked by a horse shortly before Masatoyo had arrived. Masatoyo saw his father on the ground and a sword in Kiyoyasu's hand. Without hesitation, he rode to Kiyoyasu, jumped off his horse, and plunged his blade into Kiyoyasu's back.
Masatoyo was raging.
"You villain, how could you kill my father over such a novel offense? This is the death your kind deserves!"
Kiyoyasu could barely reply.
"What? I didn't…. cough…. Masa….toyo…. Can't you see this was an enemy ruse…."
He fell to the ground. Masatoyo looked at his fallen Lord. Sadayoshi quickly cut his son down and rushed to Kiyoyasu.
Kiyoyasu.
"I'm sorry, perhaps I should have been more cautious…. what will become of the Matsudaira if I….."
Kiyoyasu Matsudaira died in Sadayoshi's arms. Sadayoshi would commit seppuku there to atone for his son's actions.
The next day, Masahide Hirate raced to inform Nobuhide Oda of his rival's demise.
"My lord, I bring urgent news!"
Nobuhide listened quietly.
"So, Kiyoyasu has been killed? Good, I never imagined it would happen so quickly."
Masahide was shocked.
"Wait, so, it was you, my lord?"
Nobuhide grinned.
"It wasn't me, personally. All I did was pay the right people to spread the right lies."
"My lord, you can certainly be a terrifying man. That was not a very honorable way to deal with a powerful enemy."
"To hell with honor! We live but fifty years. I intend to make an impact on my life. Teach young Kipposhi to do the same. After I'm gone, he will finish what we started. Maybe he won't make the same mistake I did….."
Masahide looked down at the sheathed sword at Nobuhide's side.
"It wasn't a mistake to save your clan…., but perhaps it was a step too far."
Nobuhide continued, unbothered.
"You must teach Kipposhi it's okay to cheat to win. But never trust that monster... I swear for the rest of my life, this blade will never be unsheathed again."
Masahide started nervously at the sword.
"I will teach the young master to never unsheathe it.
1535 A tiger in Owari
Nobuhide, looking at his retainer, was pondering.
"Our scouts say Ansho Castle is virtually undefended. Why not simply take it from Hirotada?"
"That sounds easy enough. But what of the retaliation?" Masahide replied.
"What retaliation? If he sends troops, we send troops where he is not. He's spreading his forces thin. He hasn't been recruiting since Kiyoyasu's death. Many of his retainers have defected to the Imagawa or us. He is quickly losing his grip on Mikawa. We must strike now."
Masahide nodded.
"Very well, my lord, we shall rally our forces at once and take the castle with haste."
Masahide led a force of around 3,000 troops and quickly toppled the castle. This terrified
Hirotada, who quickly pondered the thought of surrender. A messenger arrived then.
"My lord, you have visitors from Suruga and Kai."
Hirotada wasn’t expecting anyone.
"Who? Uh, please send them in."
An old monk, a very large intimidating man, and a youthful man entered.
The monk spoke.
"Greetings, Lord Matsudaira. I am Sessai Taigen of the Imagawa clan. The Imagawa has come to save you from Nobuhide Oda. The man is called the Tiger of Owari, but when his father Nobusada became bedridden, he stole most of Owari from his brother Nobutomo. Nobutomo has the Shugo of Owari, Yoshimune Shiba, in his care. He should rule Owari, but Nobuhide plots and fights for dominance. He's cunning and ruthless. I believe he killed your father, and now he's coming for you."
Hirotada was terrified.
"He's…. coming for me?"
Sessai stepped closer to him.
"Imagawa will be your shield, Sir Matsudaira; allow me to introduce my nephew and student Baikaku. He will someday be Shogun."
The young man calmly approached them.
1536 change in management
Baikaku did a quick analysis of Hirotada.
"It seems you have a problem. I have a solution. The Imagawa clan will protect you from the Oda -all you have to do is swear loyalty to me. Not the Imagawa or Suruga, but me. Do we have a deal?"
Hirotada nodded.
"…. Of course, my lord. Whatever you need. I'll do anything to save Mikawa from Nobuhide. I swear my undying loyalty to you. But my lord, I must ask.. who is that?" he nervously pointed at the tall man.
Baikaku laughed.
"How rude of me not to introduce you. He is my father-in-law. Nobutora Takeda, the Giant of Kai. He will also help to protect you."
Hirotada was completely at ease. "I feel a lot safer now."
"As you should, as long as you're loyal. You see, Nobutora hates traitors. The last man who crossed me…. well, my father-in-law, broke all of his bones. I must go, I've much more to do. Have a good night, and rest assured your safety is our top priority."
The Imagawa took their leave with haste. At the same time, Masahide Hirate had recently arrived at Nagoya Castle.
Nobuhide was looking up at him.
"That was incredibly fast, even for you, Hiro. Did you get any resistance?"
"Well, as soon as my men put ladders up, the enemy vacated the premises. Some joined us, so while I left with 3,000 men, I think I returned with 3,200. But it wasn't all good news. Shortly after regrouping, we were met with Matsudaira, Imagawa, and even mountain troops from Kai. The commander was massive, and with his spear, there was no mistaking him. Nobutora The Giant, the Monster of Kai. His force blocked our retreat, but he simply pointed at Kariya Castle, and his troops went to enforce that rally. I think it was an invitation to war."
Nobuhide scratched his chin.
Well, that certainly is meddlesome. We will not start a war against a giant, the Imagawa, and Mikawa at the same time. We should watch the north. I don't wish to get involved in a two-front war. If I do that, the Toki or the Azai will make a move. Also, I hear lord Nagano-Kudo has employed a talented swordsman, Fujimitsu Hosono. With talent like that, it's best not to ignore them either."
"Then we shall bolster our defenses for now and see who moves first."
Sometime later, in Sunpu palace, Sessai had a private meeting with his nephew Ujiteru.
"My Lord, people are talking about your shortcomings as a leader. It's very troubling news. Many say they want to see your brother Baikaku lead the clan. For the sake of the clan, would that be an idea you'd be willing to entertain?"
Ujiteru Imagawa shouted back.
"Of course not! My brother is a halfwit, and I don't care about the opinions of mere peasants! If you ever suggest such filth as this in the future, It'll cost you your head."
Sessai kneeled.
"I'm sorry to have offended you, my Lord. Allow me to play you a song to show my gratitude for your continued majesty."
Ujiteru was pleased and agreed to hear the song in his honor. Sessai pulled a bamboo flute and presented.
Sessai sighed.
"…...This song is called Dokubachi".
A poisonous dart hit Ujiteru in the neck. The Dart dissolved, Ujiteru fell to the ground and started shaking.
Sessai shook his head.
"Forgive me, nephew; I made the poison too weak. I'm still learning how to use it, you see. Whatever the case, you have no idea how much good you've just done for the Imagawa clan. I'll never forget what you've done. Rest, my nephew, Baikaku will take this burden now.
1536 Yoshimoto Imagawa
Baikaku returned to Sunpu, where Jukeini, his mother, immediately met him.
Jukeini
"I have some very unfortunate news. Your lord brother has fallen to a sudden illness. He has gone to the Ki plane. As I see it, only you can succeed him. For the sake of the Imagawa, will you shoulder this burden?"
Baikaku smirked.
"Yes, though I am filled with grief over my brother's passing, I will take on this task with everything I have."
Sessai emerged from the shadows.
"What a great loss we have suffered on this day. But my lord, if you are to take your place as leader of the Imagawa, you'll need a proper name. From this day forward, you shall be known as Yoshimoto. Yoshimoto Imagawa, a descendant of the Seiwa Genji, future Shogun."
The three of them got closer together, and Yoshimoto spoke lightly.
"Do you think they bought it? Did our plan work?"
Jukeini nodded.
"Of course it worked, the Matsudaira submitted, The Takeda are our allies, and Ujiteru is dead."
Sessai was relieved.
"Now, our only threat is Etan Genko. Because he's older, he will certainly change his name and challenge you. But that's why we have the Takeda!"
Sometime later, in Nagoya Castle, Masahide Hirate raced to Nobuhide.
"My lord, the scouts from Suruga have a report! Ujiteru Imagawa has died. His brother Yoshimoto has taken over. First Kiyoyasu, now Ujiteru….."
Nobuhide nodded.
"I know what you're thinking, Hiro, but I had nothing to do with it this time. Perhaps this was a coincidence, or perhaps someone else is willing to cheat to win. Only time will tell. On another note. that merchant with eyes like a snake spotted in Mino... I don't know why, but this merchant is more intimidating than the Toki clan. There’s something about him that makes him feel like a venomous snake. I think he was spying on us, but I'm not sure."
Masahide replied.
"I know that the merchant's name is Dosan. He is certainly resourceful, he had everything I was looking for, and if he didn't, he claimed he could get it next time. But I'd say you are right to fear him. I'm not sure of his endgame, but I know he has plans. However, the more immediate threat is Yoshimoto, I'd say. From what I understand, he was going to be a monk, yet suddenly came back, changed his name, then his 23-year-old brother died. This man is dangerous; we need to keep an eye out for him. What we need is a powerful ally. What about the Asakura clan?"
Nobuhide agreed to gain favor with the Asakura. Masahide would spend one week per year with Soteki Asakura. Masahide became good friends with Soteki. Who in return would tell of his great battles against the Ikko Ikki. Masahide would speak about Kipposhi and the future of the Oda clan. Soteki came to have high expectations for the young man.
In 1538, Nobusada Oda died in his sleep. He had been bedridden for a few years. Nobuhide adopted his responsibilities, letting his older brother Nobutomo watch the Shugo, Yoshimune Shiba, and pretend to rule the clan from Kiyosu Castle. In reality, Nobuhide ruled most of Owari. He was expected to pass power with his father's death; instead, he fabricated rumors that Nobutomo poisoned their father, and thus Nobutomo and Yoshimune were exiled to Kiyosu Castle.
1540 The Viper, Dosan
Dosan Saito was a merchant in Mino. However, he was the Toki clan's merchant. He would find eccentric and rare items and present them to the Toki before anyone else. Yoshinari Toki was the Shugo of Mino. He enjoyed taunting the Imagawa, Oda, and Asakura clans with the extraordinary treasures secured by Dosan. Dosan served this duty for twenty years, but in 1540, something happened. Masahide Hirate of the Oda helped the Asakura hold a massive tea ceremony. All of the Oda and Asakura's named vassals attended and were served tea. Over a hundred people took place in this glorious event. The popularity of the Oda and Asakura exploded as tales of this massive celebration spread across the land.
His rival's fame disheartened Yoshinori.
"How did they seat and serve so many? Such a fantastic party in Asakura lands. Mino is the land of wealth. I could never host such a large event. Damn that Masahide, he must have been planning this for years. Even with all my treasures, I couldn't match that celebration."
A voice called from behind him.
"Lord Toki, do not despair. I have recently found the perfect solution to your problem. I have a great many connections. I could gather enough supplies for not just you and your vassals but every troop in your army as well. Imagine what everyone would say about you. It would be the largest tea ceremony of all time!"
Yoshinori turned to Dosan, placed his hands on his shoulders and said. “Dosan, if you make this dream a reality, I'll give you whatever you desire."
Dosan responded.
"Lord Toki, within one month, the entire land will be talking about your legendary celebration."
Many of his retainers begged him to reconsider inviting his entire army. It would leave Mino defenseless for an entire night. Yoshinori didn't heed their warnings. Instead, he scolded them for their lack of vision. Before long, the day had arrived, and the Toki set up for the legendary occasion. Dosan brewed three massive kettles of tea, and everyone had a serving. After that, Yoshiyori started a speech.
"My people! This event will send the Toki clan ….."
He stumbled forward. As he looked around, most of his retainers and soldiers were also writhing on the ground. Yoshiyori was confused, his body was weak, and his insides were burning.  Dosan approached him slowly.
"How unfortunate for you, lord Toki. It seems as if your tea isn't agreeing with you or your men. Curious, perhaps it had something to do with the secret ingredient I used to stretch it out. Have you noticed the small blade I wear on my side? It has a lot of history. Its name is Sekanso. It was spawned from Orochi, the great serpent. It can produce a fantastic amount of extremely deadly venom. It's said it was the first seal made by Lady Fuu. I'm sorry it had to be this way, lord Toki…. but your men outnumbered mine three to one. This was the easiest way for me to take Mino."
Yoshiyori was shaking and very close to death. He muttered with the last of his strength
"I hope you too fall victim to a snake."
Dosan smiled and called his men to remove the partygoers. They were placed in a massive hole Dosan had his men dig during the ceremony. In a single night, Dosan Saito had taken Mino.
1540: Soteki and Takakage Asakura
Masahide Hirate had been summoned before Nobuhide Oda. Kazumasu Takigawa was already in attendance.
Masahide reported.
"My lord, I can only assume you have heard of the viper of Mino incident."
Nobuhide nodded.
"Yes, I have. We were right to distrust that snake. We have to do something; I would like you to bring this matter to the Asakura clan. If we could get reinforcements from Soteki, this war would be a simple matter of tactics. Tell the Asakura we wish to avenge their allies, the fallen Toki clan."
Masahide stood tall.
"Of course, my lord. I've helped them more than a few times already. My years of diplomacy will certainly be a deciding factor. May I ask who the young man is here?".
Kazuma Takigawa faced Masahide.
"I am Kazumasu of the Takigawa. I'm a friend of Katsuie Shibata, who also works for lord Nobuhide. We have detained a former Toki Samurai who wishes to meet with lord Nobuhide or yourself. The family name is Mori, and his given name is Yoshinari. Do either of you wish to meet him?"
Masahide nodded.
"I would like to speak with him. My lord, if I send him your way….."
Nobuhide interrupted him.
"I'll know if you send him that he is worth having."
On Masahide's way out, he followed Kazumasu to Yoshinari. He called for his bindings to be cut immediately.
"Sorry about the ropes.. but you can't be too cautious these days. Yoshinari, why come to the Oda?"
Yoshinari Mori replied while massaging his wrists.
"The Viper killed my lord. I was ordered to watch Ogaki Castle while they celebrated…. that bastard poisoned everyone…. not many survived. Only those like me that didn't go. I abandoned the castle, but not before I sabotaged the gate. I want to help avenge the Toki clan. I want to join the Oda."
Masahide smiled. "Kazumasu, please take Yoshinari to see lord Nobuhide. Call Katsuie Shibata as well. I feel like you boys are about to go to war."
Masahide's next destination was Ichijodani Castle. There, he met with his friend Soteki and the head of the Asakura clan, Takakage Asakura.
Soteki Asakura addressed him.
"It's nice to hear your return was so swift, though I was surprised you came here instead of Asakurayama. May I ask why?"
Masahide replied.
"I'm sorry, this is an urgent matter. I came here to ask an audience with Lord Takakage and yourself. As an envoy of Nobuhide Oda of Owari, we request an alliance with the Asakura clan. The purpose of this alliance is to avenge the Toki clan. My lord is preparing to siege Ogaki Castle and requests help."
Takakage Asakura nodded in response.
"I am eternally grateful for the Oda's assistance with our celebration last year. Our clan has become very popular since, so I accept Nobuhide's alliance. I will gather my men and go assist the Oda with their campaign in Mino."
1540 Toshimasa Maeda
Nobuhide Oda was instructing his warriors.
"Kazumasu, Katsuie, and Yoshinari. You guys are going to lead the vanguard. We are going to take Ogaki Castle."
At the same time, Dosan Saito was instructing his.
"Morinari Ando, Ittetsu Inaba, and Bokuzen Ujiie. You will go help defend Ogaki Castle. The Mori boy took the bait. The Oda will come, and that's when you crush them. Genta Komaki the Farufu and Tomokatsu Toyama the Sunogumo are already at Ogaki. My three greatest warriors and two Onika.. the Oda won't stand a chance.
Meanwhile, Masahide Hirate was looking at Soteki.
"I'm excited to see you in battle. I've only ever heard stories. That sword of yours, it's marked Resai. King Resai forged most Onika. So is that one too?"
Soteki Asakura nodded.
"Fujin, his name is Fujin. It's a double-edged sword. Just wait until you see my trance. Trust me; it will be a sight to behold."
Yoshinari was happy to hear that.
"This is just the chance I need. I'll prove to lord Nobuhide that I'm a great warrior."
Katsuie Shibata interrupted him.
"Shut up, boy, we should be looking for the strongest opponents. That's the only way to show greatness! You don't earn respect by being the first to fight. Be the last one fighting or better yet die fighting."
Kazumasu Takigawa, hearing his comrades, argued to himself.
"Why did I get paired with the glory hogs? I should stick with Lord Maeda for better survival odds with an experienced general."
Before long, they arrived at Ogaki Castle. Katsuie and Yoshinori were excited; Kazumasu was nervous. A man in full armor with a well-crafted helmet and big serrated sword rode to the front of the army. Toshimasa Maeda, Nobuhide's most notable general.
Toshimasa Maeda spoke to his troops.
"Men, today we take Ogaki Castle; tomorrow we will capture the rest of Mino! Today we begin the Oda clan's rise to power!"
Kazumasu spoke up confidently too.
"With an Onika, we can't lose! We are going to win for sure….."
Toshimasa looked at the young samurai and asked him, "Who is this Onika you speak of?"
Kazumasu was confused.
"Well…. you, sir…. your sword is unique, and I know what that seal means. That's the seal of King Resai. He sealed all of the Onika."
Toshimasa laughed.
"Normally, you'd be right, young man, but not this time. This sword was made and reforged by King Resai. However, its tale was different. You see, before he was King, he tried to seal the greatest Onika, Onikage the King of the Oni. He failed, and Onikage destroyed this sword. Resai survived, and many years after Yoshi Amana sealed away Onikage into his sword, the Shichishito, Resai reforged this blade. He was so scared Onikage would free himself from the Shichishito, he made this sword unbreakable. He poured a large amount of his own Ki to make it strong enough to seal Onikage once and for all. He named this sword Maeda and gave it to my ancestor. It is my clan's namesake, passed down for many generations. But it is not an Onika. Consider this a lesson in making assumptions."
Kazumasu was silent, embarrassed about being wrong.
Toshimasa patted his shoulder.
"Don't dwell on it, kid; we have a siege ahead of us."
And so, the Oda army made haste towards Ogaki.
1540 Tomokatsu Toyama, the Sunogumo
Yoshinari Mori laughed when he noticed the gate was wide open. He had sabotaged the gate before leaving. However, he hadn't left it open. Toshimasa knew what this meant.
"Expect an ambush! The enemy knew we were coming!"
As the Oda troops entered Saito, archers opened fire. An arrow flew past Kazumasu's face. Katsuie charged the archers and dismounted his horse, stabbing one. He then pulled his spear out and started attacking the others. Soon he would be joined by Yoshinari. Kazumasa noticed Toshimasa and decided to stay close to him as he started to engage the enemy spearmen. As Katsuie cut down the last archer, he looked to Yoshinari, who was about to compliment him. Before any words were exchanged, Yoshinari was hit by a fireball and sent flying. Several Oda troops attacked his assailant. They were all cut down or burned. Katsuie slowly approached the man.
As his ax smoldered, he called out to Katsuie.
"Boy, this is your lucky day. You will die in combat against Genta Komaki. My ax, the Farufu, shall claim your life. It's a much more prestigious death than to fall to a basic weapon. I hope your death is swift."
Katsuie smiled.
"So you are an Onika! Then you are exactly who I want to fight! If I kill you, then I'll be an Onika!"
Katsuie charged at Genta. Genta brought his ax crashing down, and Katsuie attempted to block with his spear. However, it was easily cut in half.
Genta grinned.
"You see, this is the difference between an Onika and an ashigaru."
Katsuie screamed in rage and threw his spear tip at Genta. The spear pierced his shoulder, causing him to drop the Farufu. Katsuie tackled him and yelled.
"I am no mere foot soldier. I am Katsuie Shibata!"
Katsuie started to beat him mercilessly. At the same time, Toshimasa and Kazumasa broke through the Saito line. Three warriors converged on their position.
Toshimasa glanced at them.
"Well, you must be the commanders."
The Mino three answered at the same time.
"Yes, we are the Mino three, the perfect unit. Morinari Ando, Ittetsu Inaba, and Bokuzen Ujiie. You won't be able to defeat us. There is no weakness in our defense, and our attacks are relentless. Oda General, you will die here at Ogaki Castle.”
Toshimasa called Kazumasu.
"Kid, these guys are going to be a challenge. I can see you're scared for your life, but I need your help separating them. If not, I will die. If we can't separate them and I fall here, take my sword and my head home to our lord."
Kazumasu sighed. “Hell, that's a lot to put on me; I wish Katsuie or that other guy were here."
A voice called out to him.
"Yoshinari Mori! That's my name, Takigawa, remember it. I'll help you. We have to win now. I took Onika's head!"
Yoshinari pointed to a satchel tied to his waist. Kazumasu felt more confident with an even fight. Around the same time, Katsuie, his hands still dripping with blood, both his and his opponents, were circling each other. He approached the enemy commander, Tomokatsu Toyama, a man whose large build matched Katsuie's size.
Katsuie stared at the ax Tomokatsu held.
"Old man, that ax belongs to me!"
Tomokatsu wasn't the least bit intimidated.
"Shut the hell up, arrogant boy! You already have the Farufu; the Sunogumo is useless to you. Besides, all your strength means nothing to my fighting experience. Even if you did think it possible, you can't beat me."
Katsuie laughed. "Old man, I see you had the same idea. Why keep them separated? They belong together, as the perfect weapon."
Tomokatsu shook his head.
"Foolish boy! There is only one way to settle this. I don't give a damn about this battle or this castle! Boy, you remind me of myself at your age. You must have killed Genta…. he was a very skilled warrior. To think I would find such a powerful opponent here, especially one so young. Come at me with everything you've got!"
Katsuie started to admire his opponent.
"Aye, sir!"
Tomokatsu activated his trance, and the castle was enveloped in a sandstorm.
Soteki Asakura noticed what was going on.
"It looks like I arrived just in time. I'm the only one strong enough to fight Tomokatsu Toyama at full power, but it may cost me my life."
1540 Sandstorm
Tomokatsu was laughing.
" Perhaps I overestimated your abilities."
Katsuie, instead, was annoyed.
"Shut up. I can't see you. The sand is in my eyes. How am I going to fight something I can't see?"
Tomokatsu cackled.
"A true warrior doesn't rely on his eyes only. Trust in your ability."
Katsuie was confused.
"Are you seriously helping me kill you? That's crazy; you can't train your killer."
"It goes both ways, kid. If you aren't good enough, you'll die anyway. If you can kill me, then I had a hand in training a great warrior.”
Katsuie was starting to respect his opponent. The Oda were also having issues with the Mino three.
Kazumasu sighed.
"These guys are relentless. I can't see anything, but they aren't letting up. Yoshinari took a spear to the shoulder, and Sir Maeda has been hit a few times. We are going to lose this battle."
Katsuie lunged at Tomokatsu, only to be swept away by a wave of sand.
Katsuie
"Ugh! I hate sand! It's rough, and it gets everywhere!"
Tomokatsu taunted.
"Why aren't you using Farufu's fire? It's pointless to have an Onika if you don't use its power."
"Fine... Farufu, make a fire or something!"
A stream of fire started blowing from the ax.
Katsuie shrugged. "How is this going to help?"
Tomokatsu sighed too.
"Don't tell him to do something. Tell him how to help you win. Borrow his power, use Farufu as a partner, not just a weapon."
Toshimasa Maeda, meanwhile, was getting tired.
"This is not going well. Boys, find an opening and breakaway. Get our men out of here and regroup. Then come back and take the castle after the sandstorm subsides. It has been an honor to see you fight so hard for the Oda. Help lord Nobuhide take Mino!"
Buffed by the sandstorm, Katsuie fell to his knees.
"I'm sorry, Sir Toyama, I wasn't the great warrior you anticipated."
Just when hope had faded, a great gust of wind blew away the sandstorm. A man with a massive sword landed on the castle grounds. The man swung his blade, and a massive wave of air destroyed the rear gate. Masahide Hirate and the Asakura troops flooded the castle. Katsuie was approached by the man, who then helped him up.
Soteki Asakura shook his arm.
"You did well to survive this long against Tomokatsu, kid. Why don't you let me take it from here?"
Katsuie was beaten badly.
"I appreciate you getting rid of the sandstorm. I owe you my life. That said, this is my fight. If you intervene, you'll be my enemy."
Soteki nodded.
"Very well. Don't fall, kid. I'll go take care of the troops then."
Katsuie glared at Tomokatsu.
"I'm ready this time!"
Tomokatsu rebuked.
"I can tell; that's why I won't hold back."
Katsuie slammed his ax to the ground, and a wave of fire flew at Tomokatsu. A layer of sand quickly blocked it. However, heat started to melt the sand. Katsuie noticed it slowed it down to the point he could dodge it. Tomokatsu and Katsuie stared at each other. They knew this was the last move - only one was going to survive. Tomokatsu made a massive wall of sand. Katsuie started heating just the middle until it glowed orange. He stopped and put everything he had left into Farufu. Then, with the last of his strength, he chucked the ax. Katsuie collapsed, and the wall of sand crumbled to dust. He was fading from consciousness. But he saw Tomokatsu was still approaching.
"After all that, it still wasn't enough? I'm sorry, Lord Toyama."
Tomokatsu Toyama laughed and kneeled, defeated.
"Why are you apologizing? You won, so claim your prize."
Tomokatsu pulled the Farufu from his chest and presented both axes to Katsuie.
"No human can take a beating like that and still win a fight like this. You must be some Devil….."
As Tomokatsu fell, Katsuie caught him.
"Thank you, Lord Toyama. From this day forward, I will use your lessons to become the strongest man that ever lived. Just keep an eye on me."
1540 An unexpected alliance
Kazumasu woke up. "Am I still alive? How did I survive?".
Toshimasa Maeda was next to him and answered his question. "We had reinforcements from the Asakura. They saved us and took the castle. Their leader, Soteki, is one hell of a fighter. I don't think we would have taken it if not for him."
Kazumasu responded, "Honestly, I'm just happy to be alive. Hey, what about the other guy?."
Toshimasa pointed to Yoshinari Mori, still resting after the battle. Kazumasu breathed a sigh of relief.
Masahide Hirate was celebrating with Soteki.
"You weren't joking about that sword of yours. Aside from Shibata, you almost single-handedly won the battle. Fujin is not a force to be messed with."
Soteki laughed and explained, "If you think you're scared of it, the Ikko rebels have a special chant about it. Haha, supposedly, it protects them. I am not so sure about that. But there is one more thing I would like to do before I go to Echizen…. I would like to meet him."
Masahide was surprised and questioned, "Lord Nobuhide?."
Soteki swung his hand dismissively. "No... young Kipposhi. I know he's just a child, but you praise him so highly. I'd like to see how he is progressing."
Masahide tilted his head forward. "I'll take you to him. I'm sure lord Nobuhide would like to personally thank you for your military support."
Meanwhile, in Sunpu Palace, Yoshimoto Imagawa, Sessai Taigen, and Jukeini were meeting regarding the Oda's movement.
Yoshimoto spoke up. "Nobuhide has moved into Mino. Perhaps it is time to invade Owari?."
Jukeini stood up and smiled. "My dear son, that is a good plan. However, there are matters closer to home. You must first deal with Yoshizane, your half-brother."
Sessai crossed his arms and said, "Etan Genko, that bastard, thinks he has a claim to the Imagawa. As we speak, he is gathering support. He aims to take everything from you. Nobutora, your father-in-law, has been sent  two letters asking him to betray us. He even offered Sunpu Palace as a reward. That alone tells me he doesn't value the Imagawa's prestigious history. So, I have sent a request that lord Nobutora does go along with his schemes, all the while remaining loyal to us."
Yoshimoto smiled. "How clever you are, uncle. I'm truly blessed to have such a fantastic mind helping to watch my back. I'll admit I was too focused on the future and nearly lost sight of the present. Let us wait for my brother to move; then I'll crush him forthwith."
Jukeini responded. "For the time being, we should focus on the usurper and stay out of Owari too. That said, Nobuhide did take Ansho Castle not too long ago. Perhaps if we sent Yuhara to Suruga with some troops to recapture it?."
Sessai smiled. "A capital idea, sister. Show them we could attack Owari if we wanted. Also, it would help to have another castle in Mikawa. Send word to Yuhara; he has a year to gather support."
Sometime later, while visiting Nobuhide and Kipposhi, Soteki received a message. His face grew pale, and he soon called a meeting with Masahide and Nobuhide.
"I just received an order to pull my troops immediately."
Nobuhide got red in the face. "Why!? We haven't had enough time to start planning the siege of Inabayama Castle. Your support was paramount to the success at Ogaki Castle. Why must you pull out at this critical junction?!"
Soteki crossed his arms. "My brother has allied with the Saito clan."
Nobuhide gasped. "Why would he do such a thing?"
Masahide stepped in. "My lord, it's clear to me. We had the Viper's back to the wall…. and it would seem he found a way out. Judging by Soteki's face, I know there is a second part of this message. If we continue our campaign into Mino….Soteki will be our opponent as well. That is not a battle we can afford to fight."
Soteki was now looking at the floor. "I am sorry, but I can't go against my brother's decision. I hope you understand and hope to leave this room as a friend. I wish you luck in your future endeavors."
Soteki started to walk away, but he stopped, turned, and spoke again. "One last thing.. keep an eye on young Kipposhi, that kid is going to do something special someday." With that, Soteki left, and the Oda were back on the defensive.
1541 Fratricide
Yoshizane sent a messenger to Nobutora Takeda. "Now is the time. I will soon move on Yoshimoto. Be ready to take Sunpu on my word."
Nobutora immediately sent the message to Sunpu Castle. Shortly after, Yoshimoto was visited by his brother Yoshizane, who approached him.
"Baikaku, as our father's oldest living son, I demand you surrender the Imagawa clan at once. I have amassed an army to defeat you, but I'd rather it not come to that."
Yoshimoto smiled and responded. "My name is now Yoshimoto Imagawa, Lord of Suruga. You may be older, but my mother Jukeini was our father's legal wife. I am of more noble blood. Thus the Imagawa is my birthright. However, I can see by the look on your face you're not convinced, so here is my alternative to war. You gather your twenty best warriors, and I'll gather my own. At dawn tomorrow, we meet outside of our family's temple. There, we shall battle for control of the Imagawa. Do you accept, brother?"
Yoshizane accepted and left to make his preparations. Yoshimoto looked to Sessai with a scheming grin.
The next day, Yoshizane and his twenty soldiers waited patiently for Yoshimoto's entourage. Before long, Yoshimoto arrived with fifty men.

Yoshizane yelled at his brother. "You honor less coward…. you would break our agreement! …. It doesn’t matter now, for all I must do is slay you. If you're dead, it matters not how many men you have."
Yoshizane rushed at his brother, sword in hand. Yoshimoto drew his blade and attempted to parry Yoshizane's unyielding assault. The brothers soon locked up, with Yoshizane gaining the advantage.
Yoshizane smiled and taunted his brother. "Soon you will die, Baikaku. The Imagawa belongs to me!"
Yoshimoto smirked. "Etan Genko, my dear brother. You would be right; however, I've yet to reveal my trump card! This sword was a gift from my father-in-law. It has greater power than you and your normal blade. My sword has a name…. Sozasamonji!".
Yoshimoto effortlessly cut through his brother's sword and then cut him from shoulder to shoulder.
Yoshizane panicked and started to flee. Yoshimoto smiled and said under his breath, "All according to plan."
At the entrance to the temple, Yoshizane met Nobutora Takeda. "Lord Takeda, I'm so glad you are here. The time is now! He's here; you must kill Yoshimoto!"
Without a word, Nobutora grabbed Yoshizane by the head and twisted it until his neck made a loud snap.
Yoshimoto and Sessai soon met with him.
The first laughed loudly. "Thank you, Lord Takeda. Now the Imagawa truly belongs to me."