Oda Nobuna no Yabou - Volume 13 - Chapter 5

Chapter 5 - Hibiki-no-Hara   

South Higo—at Mount Yatsushiro. 

Late at night, in the wooden Myouken Temple. 

Yoshiharu and Yoshihi, the two of them visited this shrine alone. 

Sagara Yoshihi—who had been permitted to return with her 500 soldiers without rest to confront Kai Soun’s forces, who had captured Yatsushiro from Mifune Castle. 

Sagara Yoshiharu, who should’ve been held hostage by the Shimazu Clan, was returned to Yoshihi under Shimazu Yoshihisa. 

With this, Yoshihi couldn’t betray the Shimazu Clan; but fighting Kai Soun would break her heart… It was a painful dilemma that should’ve even been impossible in Kyushu, the world of Shura. 

Now, with the written oath of the renunciation of war that was kept inside Myouken Temple held closely in Yoshihi’s hand; before entering the field, the two of them talked with each other. 

The silly memories from childhood, the young Yoshihi often played in this wooden Myouken Temple. 

“Yoshiharu. I understand the reason why you’ve called me over to the Shimazu Four Sisters’ meeting. To forget my antagonism and accept Tokuchiyo, isn’t that right? You, however, hesitated to protest bluntly from your mouth, because you didn’t know the circumstances. So it’s like that.” 

“That’s right. There was that time with Nobuna. That; because I am unable to understand the heart of the one I face against; without thinking about the consequences, I have repeatedly made very insensitive remarks. I don’t know the circumstances between you and Tokuchiyo-chan. Perhaps I should’ve been able to find out the circumstance if it were true, but there wasn’t any time.” 

“Wasn’t there anxiety at the thought that the Shimazu Four Sisters would’ve quarreled and the meeting would break down?” 

“That’s not it. There will always be a slight quarrel happening between sisters in each and every passing house. Even in my family—the Sagara kindergarten army [younger sister corps]—there are some terrible things that happen.” 

“You trust them. To be honest, I am envious of those four sisters. I can’t choose the family that I will be born in. It is also my destiny to be born in this world as the princess of the Sagara Clan.” 

“Yoshiharu. You knew the outcome of the Battle of Kizakihara. You probably know the continuation of that as well. What will happen to me after this?” Yoshihi sat down on a bench, thereafter speaking these words as she spread the written oath that was more important than her life. 

“… After losing to the Shimazu Clan, Sagara Yoshihi will fight Kai Soun under the order of the Shimazu Clan. That’s your fate. You must not take up your position in Hibiki-no-Hara. There will be death when your retreat on the river is blocked in the ravine of the valley.” 

“Hibiki-no-Hara? You are foolish, to tell me the most dangerous area to be defeated in. After all, I will be defeated by uncle Soun as expected.” 

“It’s alright. The future is never fixed. It surely can be changed under some parameters. It can be avoided. Have a strong will to avoid that destiny.” 

“How, I wonder? My situation is all converged into one fate,” Yoshihi laughed. 

“Even if I fall, Sagara Yoshiharu. As long as there is you, the Shimazu Clan will not dissolve the Sagara Clan. In an emergency, I will ask Tokuchiyo. I can’t beg for anything from Uncle Soun who has become my enemy. But don’t let Tokuchiyo inherit the Sagara Clan. You will be the one to inherit the Sagara Clan as its 19th head.” 

“What?” 

“Don’t hesitate. You are originally the descendant of the Sagara Clan. If you who are a chief retainer of the Oda Clan get along with the Shimazu Clan well, you will overcome this war-ravaged age and protect the Sagara Clan. In other words, Tokuchiyo’s life.” 

“Yoshihi. Those words are totally like a testament.” 

“Grow your kindergarten army. Bring up a large number of brethren. In the Sagara family which doesn’t have any internal clan trouble [No internal clan trouble, but a fucked up familial interaction; is that it?], you should be able to make a new family. At that time, you will become a person of this world, perfectly. You will be able to overcome your homesickness and the desire to see your mother again.” 

Yoshiharu held his breath. 

That was because the tense and serenely fierce expression had disappeared from Yoshihi’s face. 

It was a gentle look similar to Tokuchiyo; like two peas in a pod. 

“You intend to die, Yoshihi?” 

“How could that be? But I can say this. I have finally found the reason of my birth. It is all thanks to you, Sagara Yoshiharu.” 

“That transparent smile. I have seen one before. Right before Takenaka Hanbei fell down from illness, she had showed me that smile.” 

“Time passes to the future from the past. Life also connects the past to the future. If I can’t grasp the truth, then I shall choose the future without hesitation.” 

“It’s not like that, Yoshihi. It’s possible to reach it. Even if it’s impossible to do it alone; with two, three, or four people, it will be possible.” 

“If I survive, I will be married to you. You will disappear. All the things you have done in this world will be in vain. Everyone will forget your will. On the other hand, if I die, you will survive. My memory will be remain in you, and Tokuchiyo. Which one is better? I will not hesitate about it,” Yoshihi took Yoshiharu’s hand, and laughed. 

“Please don’t give up! Both of us must survive at the end. It shall not be just one. As long as we can persuade Yoshihiro, the wedding will be canceled. The reason why it was difficult was because she didn’t hold any malice, but because she was not being spiteful that I can do something about it. If I die, will it end here? If I survive, what it will be?” 

“Yoshiharu. Your mother must be a gentle person. I want to see her once.” 

“Eh…? My mother? She is kinda like Tokuchiyo. Bright and cheerful, she is a gentle person.” 

She is similar to you at how her and your smiles have overlapped just now, Yoshiharu felt embarrassed, unable to say so. 

Yoshiharu regretted that hesitation immediately. 

“Fufufu. As expected, everything seems to be destined.” 

“What kind of thing is that?” 

Yoshihi didn’t answer, and, instead, looked up at the sacred tree that towered across the main hall. 

Unconsciously, Yoshiharu followed Yoshihi’s gaze. 

Yoshiharu noticed that Yoshihi had suddenly burned the written will that she held in her hands… 

“I want to see the world outside Kyushu. I’m a bird kept in a cage, inside the Sagara Clan. It’s one of the reasons why I have never lived for my own sake.” 

“The one that you’ve burnt is your written oath.” 

“Ah, this is good. After I die in battle, it will have been impossible to marry you. With this, you will survive.” 

“It’s no good! Give me one more chance! I will not make the blunder from Kizakihara again! Make me a strategist next time, or a soldier, or a scout, or even a supply troop is fine or anything! Let me go to the battlefield!” [Grammatical violation is natural here.] 

“Fufufu. I don’t think you can defeat Uncle Soun. There will be no luck like it did in Hitoyoshi Castle. If you meet Uncle Soun at the battlefield, there will be no discussion, and you will be killed without question.” 

Yoshiharu couldn’t refute. It was mortifying. The Shura among Shuras who had become a killing machine—Kai Soun—brought his spear up and his forces and entered the battlefield. It was overwhelmingly insufficient for Yoshiharu. 

“Don’t make such a face, Yoshiharu. The difference in military power between you and that person isn’t your fault. There is too much difference in your upbringing.” 

“Yoshihi. Even if I don’t have military skills, I can still fight Kai Soun with the Shimazu Clan.” 

“Say, Yoshiharu.” 

“What?” 

“It’s a very cruel fate if you disappear because you joined hands with me. Finally, will you give me a goodbye kiss?” 

“Ah, no. It’s no good. I will disappear just by kissing you.” 

“What’s up with that? How boring… It seems that I have been born under a very unlucky star.” 

“I’m sorry. It’s normal for Americans to kiss family members. Because it is different from Japanese customs, it won’t be a problem.” 

“W-Well, it’s only a joke. Don’t take it seriously. Well, it’s time for me to move.” 

Yoshiharu finally understood. 

Yoshihi probably wanted to start a new life by marrying me. A way of life different from her former life, in which she has always been frightened of the clan rebellion against the whole family as the head of Hitoyoshi Castle who protects the Sagara Clan. She might have been holding on such hope, even if it were ordered by the Shimazu Clan. For some reason, she doesn’t mind having me as her marriage partner. With the illegitimate child born on the same day as she became the head of the Sagara Clan. The incompatible relationship with Tokuchiyo caused by her birth could also be changed. 

“Wait a second, Yoshihi. Did you possibly mean to…” 

“Ah, Yoshiharu. You should stop being a careless, soft-hearted person. Though you might be reluctant, you should prioritize the people you want to protect. A small daimyo of Southern Higo in a corner of Kyushu over the one who reigns the whole world in order to subjugate the world of the Sengoku era. Which one is more important to the future of Japan’s people? Didn’t you come to this Sengoku era for Oda Nobuna’s sake? Or maybe, your feelings for Oda Nobuna can be shaken at this degree?” 

“… It’s... It’s different. I don’t intend to leave Nobuna. But still, I…” 

“You are a retainer and the lover of Oda Nobuna. Then quickly meet Otomo Sorin and save Oda Nobuna from her crisis. Do not waste any more time for me who am only a rural daimyo of Higo, you idiot!” 

“Now, before my eyes, is a princess general who is going to meet her fated death! I can’t make any priority! How could I abandon you when I am facing such a difficult situation? Besides, your existence resembles my mother.” 

“No, I’m not your mother; put it in a bear pot and stew it!” 

“Even if you are not my mother, aren’t we close? We are an ancestor and a descendant.” 

“It's not even close. Because you and I are not related by blood.” 

“Because we are both connected, if we are tied together, I will disappear.” 

“No. To speak accurately, rather than to say that the blood between you and me stops being connected, it’s more like, ‘We’re not supposed to be connected in the first place;” that is the correct history.” 

“I have no idea what are you saying; my head is dumb. Anyway! Don’t leave me, Yoshihi!” 

“No, I haven’t made any child. Tokuchiyo should’ve been your direct ancestor! That is the original fate! The fate settles in the place where it should be!” 

“Yoshihi. I was embarrassed for an instant, and hesitated to tell you what I should’ve said to you.” 

“Farewell, Sagara Yoshiharu. You must live for Oda Nobuna’s dream. I am happy that I’ve met you.” 

Yoshihi stood up. Yoshiharu tried to stop her. 

This time, someone’s fist struck Yoshiharu’s solar plexus. 

Yoshiharu was taken by surprise, and then inevitably lost his consciousness. He was carried on the back of Goemon’s, who had suddenly appeared from the bottom, shoulders. 

“Sorry for the trouble,” Yoshihi nodded. 

“Ninja. Sagara Yoshiharu is the successor of my Sagara Clan. I will not allow him to enter this battle. It should make you happy if you bring him to Otomo Sorin as soon as you’ve brought him back to the Shimazu Clan. I believe that the Shimazu Clan thinks that they could send reserve forces if I gain some time, but they won’t be able to make it. It’s because Uncle Soun follows the same path as Otomo Sorin’s; she would advance to Hyuga with all of her forces. Although Otomo Sorin is certainly indecisive, the Namban strategist who unbelievably used that artifact to kill Yoshiharu is an able person who can exceed the Shimazu 4 Sisters’ imagination. There is no time left.” 

“Another Sagara. To protect my lord from defeat is remarkable and good for us. But are you alright with this? What do you feel about this?” [The translation of Goemon’s speeches is unverified.] 

“As what Sagara-uji always says, a man must take the role of the battlefield, instead of women, and not the opposite,” Goemon further said so as to supplement her question. 

“That is just a man’s selfish way. Even a woman can die for her man. Especially, for my own descendant, I won’t hesitate,” Yoshihi muttered. 

“I will be the substitute to die in this battle; the descendant must prosper. Yoshiharu and Tokuchiyo must survive.” 

“Another Sagara. That prayer will surely be delivered to Hokuto-no-Mikoto [God of the Big Dipper constellation] from Myouken Temple.” 

“In order to keep Yoshiharu from disappearing, I must commit suicide here; but then, I would abandon the Shimazu Clan in order to obstruct the enemy movement and wouldn’t fight against Uncle Soun. Because… I have decided that I have wanted to be defeated by Uncle Soun from the very beginning. From the day that Uncle Soun saved my life.” 

“I can understand your viewpoint. But once he wakes up, Sagara-uji will surely run to the battlefield. That is certain.” 

“No. Even if he has small troops, Uncle Soun can’t be surpassed. Do not underestimate the strongest Shura of Kyushu. So, this is a farewell.” 

Goemon, shouldering Yoshiharu, went off without any sound. 

However, there was another person whom Yoshihi must meet lastly. 

“Since when have you been hiding, Tokuchiyo? I know that you have been there from the very beginning,” Yoshihi spoke to Tokuchiyo who was hiding in the forest temple. 

“… Onee-sama.” 

Tokuchiyo who was wearing a bear skin armor showed up to Yoshihi. 

“An ungraceful appearance as always. Have you heard all of it? You are Yoshiharu’s ancestor, and not me.” 

“Eh? That isn’t possible! Yoshiharu is from onee-sama.” 

“Yoshiharu’s mother closely resembles you, but not me.” 

“No, onee-sama’s smile just now resembles that of Yoshiharu’s mother. I was going to say that, but I got too embarrassed to say it,” Tokuchiyo continued to talk. [Seriously, how dafuq did you know that?] 

Once gain, the feeling of reunion between the sisters was savored slowly. Tokuchiyo spoke without pause as she observed Yoshihi’s reaction. 

She kept on talking fast, as if to vent all of her emotions. 

“Tokuchiyo. That sultry way of speaking. Aren’t you and Yoshiharu similar by that? Meddlesome and hot-blooded. Lacking any dignity, but having a cheerful smile. A character loved by people because of their sincere stupidity. To always dash forward without thinking about the consequences. Conversely, a clever and noble liar like me is not similar with Yoshiharu in personality or appearance at all. We are completely opposite, like water and oil.” 

“There is no such thing! Onee-sama was just wearing the mask of the head of the Sagara Clan! I know it. You became the head of the clan at a young age. With the rebellion against the clan caused by your expulsion from Hitoyoshi Castle, onee-sama must’ve been wearing a mask to show no mercy to those who’d rebel. So you were acting like a ruthless person, but that is just acting. Didn’t onee-sama save me and a lot of people from Kai Soun’s purge?” 

“That’s clearly a misunderstanding, Tokuchiyo. I was clumsy, and let the people who rebelled escape; such thing shall never happen twice. It’s only that…” 

“No. Yoshiharu told me. Onee-sama didn’t try to murder nor banish me from home! If onee-sama really hates me, it should be impossible for me to be nearby! Actually, I thought of leaving to Satsuma or Hyuga soon, to disappear from onee-sama. If onee-sama really thinks of me as an obstacle, then I shall withdraw quietly. But Yoshiharu’s words have shaken my delusion off.” 

“Hmph, Yoshiharu is a soft-hearted and meddlesome person. It’s the same as you, the relative of a fool. But I am different. Because I am the daughter of the lawful wife of the Sagara Clan’s head. The one who possesses the ruthlessness of those who oppose their family. You are no more than a beloved illegitimate child…” 

How thoughtless of me. Tokuchiyo has been shaken by my words. I’ve probably said too much, Yoshihi clicked her tongue. 

Tokuchiyo became pale. 

“… Can you say that, it’s, not a lie? If you say yes, then, I will never reappear to onee-sama, ever again…” 

“…” 

Yoshihi couldn’t say yes or no. 

No, it’s a lie, she intended to cut it off right now. 

If I blurt my feelings out, I would make Tokuchiyo sad for her entire life. 

However, I ought to say it. 

Because, for the last time, I’ve seen Tokuchiyo. 

However, no words can come out. 

But, At the very least, I wanted to talk to Tokuchiyo, not as the head of the Sagara Clan, but as my own self, when she thought so, tears flowed down. 

However, it was an unbearable thought. Yoshihi was going to be killed soon. She wasn’t supposed to leave such emotion to Tokuchiyo. 

“I’m sorry. Because I’m stupid, I’ve said terrible things to onee-sama. Onee-sama. I will continue to adore onee-sama,” Tokuchiyo tried to grasp Yoshihi’s hand. 

However, Yoshihi ran away from Tokuchiyo and rushed up to her favorite horse that was harnessed on the sacred tree. 

“Tokuchiyo. You are to reserve the Sagara Clan’s blood for the future of Yoshiharu. I’ll just return everything to how it should’ve been.” 

“Wait, onee-sama. When you said that you were anticipating for this conclusion, you were happy.” 

“… Foolish imouto. Can an elder sister drag her younger sister to her ruin? I will be happy with that statement.” 

“What?” 

Tokuchiyo trembled with emotions. For the first time, her elder sister said such gentle words. She had been finally recognized as a family. Because of too much joy, her mind went blank. But, just when she became aware that she would be separated from Yoshihi, Yoshihi was already on horseback. 

“We are parting here, Tokuchiyo. If you follow me, because you have been judged to have no ability to survive in the Kyushu of Sengoku era, you will be executed as a rebel. If both sisters die without leaving a child, then Sagara Yoshiharu will disappear. But I am serious.” 

Those were the words that Yoshihi left. 

However, Tokuchiyo did surrender. 

This was because Yoshiharu’s words were proven right. 

It is as Yoshiharu has said. My onee-sama does not hate me. There should be a reason that couldn’t be said to me, that I was kept away for a long time. Because onee-sama must keep me away, she overdid it. Then, I will not hesitate anymore! To the very end… 

*** 

The Shimazu 4 Sisters, who had left Satsuma and Uchi Castle in order to mobilize the reserve army, stood on the Kumagawa Basin, waiting for the buildup of the troops scattered all over Hyuga. 

The Hyuga Province which the Ito Clan had left was very large. 

The Satsuma soldiers were dividing Hyuga with their utmost effort. 

The military power remaining in the hands of the Shimazu 4 Sisters only accounted for 200. 

Moreover, the soldiers dispatched to Hyuga still hadn’t returned at all, or maybe couldn’t return. 

Otomo Sorin, who had accepted the Ito Clan that had sought asylum, suddenly declared that she would reclaim the former territory of the Ito Clan and build a kingdom of God at Hyuga. They had started to move a large battalion to attack Hyuga. 

It was much faster than Toshihisa’s expectations. 

It was a wise decision that couldn’t be thought of by the indecisive Otomo Sorin. 

The Otomo Clan was divided into pro-Christian and anti-Christian factions. 

It should’ve taken one more month before they could decide on dispatching their troops and suppressing the opposition within the clan. 

Whether the four sisters would rush to Hyuga; or join Sagara Yoshihi, as a reserve army, who had begun their battle against Kai Soun; or order Sagara Yoshihi to withdraw; all of these had to be decided quickly. 

Since the wake of morning, a meeting went on within the camp. 

“I will not let the Japanese be divided and fight each other because of the Namban! I will protect the Shimazu family who hold high regard to the Imperial Court!” Sakihisa Konoe who was fired up went to the large army, all by himself; but because of the failure of the Operation “4 Sisters Seduction,” there wouldn’t be much to expect from him. 

“Yoshihisa-neesama, at this rate, we wouldn’t be able to send any reserve troops to Sagara Yoshihi.” 

“If we turn ourselves around, we would leave Sagara Yoshihi to die on her own. Although that certainly is a wicked deed, it will leave a bad aftertaste.” 

“Aneue. We have no way but to command a retreat for Sagara Yoshihi.” 

“Yoshihiro-neesama. The Sagara army has no way to retreat anymore. I assume that Sagara Yoshihi has left the safe spot on the mountain and spread out at the Valley of Hibiki-no-Hara. Therefore, they will be beleaguered by Kain Soun from the front.” 

“What did you do, Toshihisa? Isn’t that like she wants to commit suicide? Sagara Yoshihi should’ve been taught with military knowledge by Kai Soun; I was in danger and nearly defeated in Kizakihara too!” 

“I don’t know,” at the same time as Toshihisa’s shoulders drooped, Iehisa barged in. 

“Sagara has returned! He was knocked unconscious by Sagara Yoshihi and sent back here.” 

Yoshiharu, who was refused of entry to the battlefield by Sagara Yoshihi and sent back along with Tokuchiyo, who was wearing a bear skin armor; they were both guided by Iehisa in to the camp. 

“I’m sorry! Yoshihi can’t be detained! The one who is wearing a bear headgear is Yoshihi’s imouto, Tokuchiyo.” 

“Thank you! Please send out the reserve troops to my onee-sama! I will serve the Shimazu for my entire life if you save onee-sama! Even if I become a slave, anything…!” 

“The younger sister’s mother is different from the elder sister’s!” Iehisa hoped to be an assistance to Tokuchiyo since their circumstances were similar. 

Besides, Iehisa was loved by her three elder sisters, raised as a Shimazu sister, and spoiled by her sisters; but Tokuchiyo was immediately chased out from Hitoyoshi Castle after she had been born, and it was said that she lived in the Yatsushiro Mountain. 

But Tokuchiyo earnestly adored her elder sister Yoshihi. 

Therefore, Iehisa brought Tokuchiyo in front of her three elder sisters. 

“Is the reason why Sagara Yoshihi wants to face death because she is in a dilemma concerning Kai Soun and the Shimazu Clan? Or is it because she doesn’t want Sagara Yoshiharu to die?” 

Yoshihisa’s expression was full of bitterness. There were no troops that could be used as the reserve forces. They must enter Hyuga quickly and obstruct the large allied army. 

“We can’t send  any reserve force out. Sagara Yoshihi has no choice but to die,” even with such a cruel decision, Yoshihisa still couldn’t paint herself a villain. 

Tokuchiyo’s petition was ignored. Iehisa who sympathized with Tokuchiyo also felt hurt. She was afraid that her elder sister had become heartless. 

She couldn’t be able to say that Yoshihi would die, no matter what, when she thought about it. 

“Sagara Yoshiharu. You are under the Shimazu Clan right now, but you were the Oda Clan’s messenger who was supposed to go to Otomo Sorin. I thought that you could buy us some time.” 

“Yoshihisa. The Otomo Clan’s advancement is fast, and I know that there is no reserve army that could be sent. Yoshihi expected it too. It’s because a Namban strategist, Gaspard, is under Otomo Sorin. In order for me to be thrown to Yatsushiro. Gaspard used Chosokabe, Kobayakawa-san, and other princess generals in Western Japan undetected. He forcefully made me meet Yoshihi to eliminate me. That person can predict the future to some extent. Therefore, I, who am a person from the future, am his natural enemy.” 

“The Shimazu Clan has also unwittingly taken part in that. You would’ve been eliminated if we’d made you marry Yoshihi. We were helping Gaspard eliminate his natural enemy without us noticing.” 

“It was an accident that I was captured by the Shimazu Clan; perhaps fate was on Gaspard’s side.” 

“Aneue. Although I don’t believe in foretelling, that person Gaspard is a considerably excellent schemer. It’s different from the former Otomo Clan that lacked any essential strategist even if they were served by Tachibana Dosetsu’s vassal clan. If there is a person who is more resourceful than Toshihisa in the Otomo Clan, the more we couldn’t abandon Hyuga. If we don’t enter Hyuga to establish a front, it would become irreparable. The Shimazu Clan must protect Kyushu from the Namban,” Yoshihiro made a sound argument that was difficult to say on behalf of her elder sister. 

“Yoshihiro. In the Otomo Clan, there is my friend, Kuroda Kanbei. If it were Kanbei, then the worst scenario could be prevented. A little is also fine, but can’t I request a contingent force to go to Hibiki-no-Hara?” 

“Sagara Yoshiharu. Why are you so fixated on Sagara Yoshihi’s life to that extent? By your strange logic, wouldn’t you disappear if you and Yoshihi married? But because I don’t believe in such doubtful concept, I didn’t cancel the wedding. This might be the only moment now when you can survive. If Yoshihi dies, wouldn’t you still be able to stay in the world in this Sengoku era? Is it also good to disappear for Yoshihi’s sake? But what about Oda Nobuna? Are you choosing Sagara Yoshihi over Oda Nobuna?” 

“Thinking about the cancellation of the wedding after saving Yoshihi’s life. I am impudent in anywhere I go.” 

“You protected Yoshihi because she is your ancestor.” 

“Of course, there is also that. But it is also because Yoshihi is a girl. Because she is a princess general.” 

Yoshihiro recognized Yoshiharu’s great spirit, nodding silently. 

“Say all the things you want to say, I will hear all of it,” she signaled him with her gaze. 

“Yoshihi has been asking for the reason why she was born. She wasn’t even permitted to be Tokuchiyo’s sister. I don’t know why it wasn’t allowed. It was all her grandfather’s intention to drive out Tokuchiyo from Hitoyoshi Castle. It wasn’t her volition. Yoshihi protected me by facing death, and entrusted me with the Sagara Clan and Tokuchiyo. I believe that she thinks that her purpose is to die in my place. But I will never accept it! I will prevent that! I will make Yoshihi look forward for herself and convince her this time!” 

“Sagara Yoshihi knows that she is destined to be unable to love you as a woman. Therefore, at least as your ancestor… As an existence like an older sister or a mother. She may be showing her love to you by sacrificing herself, in order to protect you. If that is the case, we should let her do as she wish. As for a once-in-a-lifetime selfishness, Yoshihi was able to find the meaning of her life at last; her heart will be peaceful now.” 

“I know that! But my heart can’t calm down! I absolutely can’t let Yoshihi end her life!” 

“… Even if you are to disappear from this world as the result?” 

“Oh. Even if I disappear, I am convinced that my will won’t disappear. Surely the evidence that I have lived is left on a corner of someone’s heart. If I abandon Yoshihi here and survive, my resolve will die. I don’t want to become a man who’d leave Yoshihi on her own in favor to Nobuna.” 

“Sagara Yoshiharu. You are determined to that extent. There shouldn’t be any relations between you and this era.” 

“Then I have no right to live in this era. But it’s not like that anymore. It’s not something others can decide. I am going to decide it myself! The man whom I admire said that!” 

“The man you admire, who is he?” 

“Kobayakawa’s big brother, Mori Takamoto, who was neither strong in combat nor intelligent. He was an existence who hid behind his sisters’ shadow and wasn’t an outstanding person. He was a man who could laugh and die for his sisters anytime. The man who moved the pirate king, Murakami Takeyoshi, and led the Battle of Itsukushima to his victory. And, along with his words, died soon, advancing towards the Sengoku era!” 

At that time, the men of Satsuma Hayato who matched a thousand men, gathering outside the central camp, listened to Yoshiharu’s thunderous loud voice. 

“Mori Takamoto boarded upon the Murakami Navy’s fleet to defend his younger sister and said these words as he drank poison!” Yoshiharu shouted. 

*** 

Murakami pirates! You have seen my younger sisters’ desperate figures. Don’t you feel shame as men, while these young princess generals are struggling to pacify this era of war?! A pirate or samurai, that’s not the problem! We are the same people of Japan! How could a man let women and children fight forever as he himself lives in laziness?! 

Besides, I can’t calmly temper myself when I see my younger sisters, who share my blood and flesh, in the scene of carnage; I’ve always been ashamed of my mediocrity for having to leave battles and strategies to my younger sisters. Therefore, I will die for the sake of my younger sisters. 

My life is my weapon. 

*** 

“Mori Takamoto was poisoned, and died.” 

“Yes. But Mori Takamoto’s will isn’t dead. It lives inside Kobayakawa and Kikkawa. And I who came from the future have inherited it. I have never met him, but I think I have inherited his will on the moment I heard it from Murakami-jiisan. Even if I disappear, surely not all is forgotten. I must not abandon my will until the last moment. Shimazu Yoshihiro, it’s probably transmitted to you, and you may have inherited it.” 

Yoshiharu laughed, streaking no hint of flattery. 

When Mori Takamoto died, perhaps he was laughing in this way, Yoshihiro thought. 

“Because of the foresight in my mind, I insist that he who is a strange man, and who came from the future, doesn’t have the right to interfere in our world,” Yoshihiro was ashamed. 

At the same time, this person’s smile took something important hidden in my heart just now. I had such a comfortable feeling. 

Iehisa has been longing for love all this time, I’ve suddenly noticed that it is probably like this feeling. I am awfully confused. 

“Sagara Yoshiharu. You are indeed a brave man. A brave man shouldn’t lower his head like this.” 

Yoshihiro blushed, and then stood up. 

She lifted the kneeling Yoshiharu and grasped his hands. 

“You are a retainer of the Oda Clan ‘til the last. A guest general of the Sagara Clan. You are not inferior to the Shimazu Clan. Please don’t request help from us. Please say, ‘Let’s fight together!’” 

“Then. Will you send a reserve force?” 

“Sagara Yoshiharu. Though you earnestly struggled to heal Iehisa’s wounded heart, we sent Sagara Yoshihi to her death. On the contrary, I have my own way as an elder sister and let Sagara Yoshihi die without healing her. I was one step behind Toshihisa during the horse riding incident. Even if I will be burdened with the guilt of the Shimazu Clan this time, I may have gone too far ahead. And before that, I’ve labeled you as an outsider of this country until now and been ridiculing you. Please forgive my rude and improper words.” [Previously, she had been addressing Yoshiharu with “kisama.” At this juncture, she addressed him with “anata,” which implies her apparent respect.] 

“No, you haven’t made any improper words. You are the Takegami, Shimazu Yoshihiro, who shines brilliantly in the Sengoku era. It’s your role to single-mindedly fight the enemy on the battlefield.” 

“Is that so? Is fighting is my existence?” 

“Yes. You are an admirable existence to me who doesn’t understand anything about martial arts. But, thank you.” 

“… That sneaky smiling face. There is no helping it. If we would be able to save Sagara Yoshihi at dawn, I might cancel your wedding as well.” 

“Eh? Why? You don’t believe in superstition, right?” 

“Yes. I don’t believe it. I don’t want to see such annoying scene anymore… No, it’s alright. Fufufufu.” 

“Y-Yoshihiro-chan? Why has your character suddenly changed? After all, the role of stylishly sending out the reserve forces should belong to you, onee-sama?” Yoshihisa who had become teary-eyed nudged Toshihisa. 

“Sagara Yoshiharu is different from Konoe-sama who exploits beauty and petty schemes to seduce a princess general; it’s troublesome since this guy does it naturally. Perhaps this might become a troublesome thing, onee-sama,” Toshihisa pressed her finger to her temple, enduring a headache. 

“Nyaa? Yoshihiro-neechan, what’s with your strange look just now? Rather, release Sagara’s hands right now!” Iehisa forcefully cut in between Yoshiharu and Yoshihiro. 

“W-What is it? What’s wrong, Iehisa? I was just showing my courtesy to this brave man.” 

“Nyaa nyaa! Ever since that tea ceremony we had at the capital, it has always been my place to stand next to Sagara! I will not hand it over to Yoshihiro-neechan!” 

“I-I-Iehisa. Why are you looking with me like that? Surely you haven’t come to hate me, right? Why is it… Please stop looking at me with those burglar cat-like eyes! I won’t be able to endure it!” 

The camp’s curtain had opened, the men of Satsuma Hayato gathered around the main camp. “Well said, Sagara boy,” “We have been summoned here, and we are not going to sit here silently, we’re gonna do it,” Tokuchiyo who saw that spectacle rose up suddenly, noticing something. 

“The morale is high. But the number isn’t enough. Although we’ve gotten the reserve army as we have asked, now that it’s become like this… It’s like compelling them to die in the battlefield. How will you do it? Yoshiharu?” 

“Yes. That is right. All of them are much fewer than I’ve thought.” 

“Well! Defeating a large number with a smaller number of troops is the way of the Shimazu!” Iehisa tapped her chest with a pop. 

Though, afterwards, “It hurts,” she became teary-eyed at how painful it was. 

“Nonchalantly bringing her chest up which is bigger than mine, yet it still keeps growing larger for Sagara Yoshiharu. Such a sly younger sister,” Toshihisa clicked her tongue. 

Iehisa ,“By the princess’s command,” all the men of Satsuma Hayato stood up simultaneously and took their spears up highly, pointing to the heavens. 

“It is the way of military arts to overturn the differences in combat force. Sagara Yoshiharu is already a part of the Shimazu Clan. We’ve promised to bring out the reserve army to Sagara Yoshihi by all means! We can only go! When are we going to go but now?! We don’t just fight now; we fight anytime!” 

“Oh! Sagara Yoshiharu, who came from the capital along with Hime-sama, looked cool a moment ago!” 

“We are the strongest samurais of the Sengoku era, the Satsuma Hayato!” 

“March to Kai Soun earlier than Sagara Yoshihi’s troops!” 

“Hey, Sagara Yoshiharu! Tokuchiyo-chan! This is Satsuma’s specialty—Akumaki! Please eat it!” 

“Have a meal before war!” 

“Tokuchiyo-chan is like a wild child.” 

“Everyone… Thank you!” 

“The Akumaki!” Yoshiharu and Tokuchiyo were tossed upon with it, receiving it. 

“Iehisa? What is this? Is this the rumored Chinko-dango?” [I hear a tsukkomi *It’s shinki-dango!* ] 

“Akumaki. It’s a food made from glutinous rice boiled with lye. Because it can be preserved for a long time, we always take it to the battlefield.” 

“Lye? Oh, it’s surprisingly delicious.” 

“There is food other than bear meat, fish, and nuts after a long time! Amu amu amu amu~.” [It’s an onomatopoeia of eating food] 

“You also need to take carbohydrates, Tokuchiyo-chan!” 

“Eat without reserve! Eat it! You can take another fill!” 

When Yoshiharu’s feelings intensified, he let out a loud voice. The voices seemed to have unexpectedly attracted the men of Satsuma Hayato because it sounded as if the soul of Mori Takamori resided in it. 

“Already yearned for like he is an old acquaintance by the young male soldiers. Sheeesh. People like him are more terrible than a villain,” Yoshihisa noticed this, smiling wryly. 

“The 4 Sisters’ opinions have matched; the conclusion has been reached,” Toshihisa nodded. 

“There isn’t time to spare. Aneue, the present head of the Shimazu Clan, will give out the order.” 

“Leave it to me. My spotlight has arrived.” 

Shimazu Yoshihisa brandished the war fan in her hands. Her expression had changed completely. From the face of the eldest sister of the Shimazu 4 Sisters into the face of the family head of the Shimazu Clan. It was the expression of a Sengoku daimyo that’d fought at the world of Shuras—Kyushu. 

“Tthe Shimazu Four Sisters’ meeting has concluded, and thus shifts to a tactical meeting now!  Establish position in Hibiki-no-Hara to rescue Sagara Yoshihi who has been surrounded by the enemies! We’ll fight a decisive battle against Kai Soun and his undefeated Kyushu war record. Everyone, prepare for it!” 

“All right, aneue!” 

“Nyaa!” 

“Toshihisa, battle report!” 

Toshihisa opened the map of the battlefield geography and began to arrange the pieces. 

“Adding his own army, the master of the Aso Clan has sent 2,000 soldiers as reinforcements for Kai Soun who has sallied forth from Mifune Castle. The 500 soldiers of Sagara Yoshiharu has left the headquarters in Yatshushiro and gone down the mountain pass; they have advanced across the river and taken up position at Hibiki-no-Hara which is surrounded by mountains from all directions. Kai Soun has taken advantage of the darkness of the night, and divided his troops into two in the shape of a pincer movement to entrap Yoshihi from the north and south. Moreover, it’s not an ordinary pincer movement.” 

“The detached army has been arranged to become a wall, obstructing Shimazu’s reserve army from the south. In addition, fake soldiers are placed at many places as an ambush. It’s probably a measure against the Tsuri no Buse,” Toshihisa analyzed the battle situation indifferently like a machine. 

“It’s plausible that Kai Soun’s only purpose is Sagara Yoshihi who has broken the written oath. He’s paying no attention to the Shimazu army and has lined his troops up to attack Sagara Yoshihi’s main camp. Therefore, Kai Soun took position in the north side where he couldn’t engage the Shimazu army directly. When the time comes, they will remove the detached force in the south side, intending to attack Sagara Yoshihi’s main camp. Since he won’t be lured by the bait which is the Shimazu army, the Tsuri no Buse wouldn’t succeed, even if it’s possible to deal with the ambushes there.” 

“As one would expect from the strongest Shura, there is no hesitation on the battle formation. Moreover, the number of soldiers is large,” Yoshiharu groaned. 

“It’s unexpected that the Aso Clan has given all of their power on this onslaught. It’s strange. But there is no suspicion on the master of the Aso Clan entrusting all of his forces on Kai Soun. When Kai Soun’s three sons were accused of rebellion, the father killed his own sons.” 

“At any rate, with only this amount of troops being the reserve army, it will only be kicked around by Kai Soun who is leading an army. Iehisa! Think of a tactic to win this battle.” 

“Yes, Yoshihiro-neechan! At this time, Tsuri no Buse can’t be used. Since Kai Soun is going straight to Sagara Yoshihi’s main base, there will be some leeway for the enemy to attack in a slow ‘round robin’ movement! At any rate, we should immediately exploit this moment to rush towards Sagara Yoshihi’s main camp as soon as possible! Sagara, if you can get to Yoshihi faster than Kai Soun, you may be able to take her back! Use the ‘Drill and Extract!’” 

“Drill and Extract?” 

“Nyaa? Sagara doesn’t know? First, spread the armies into a column, then the general who spearheads it will make a central breakthrough. When a soldier in the front falls down, the following soldier will rotate, replacing the first soldier. All in order to break down the enemies’ position until their life is exhausted. It’s a reverse honorable death.” 

“Compelling honorable death to the men of Satsuma Hayato for me? That is extreme as one would expect.” 

“Hey, doesn’t the future man regret his own life, but regrets the soldiers’ lives? Kid, this is Sengoku era,” the men of Satsuma laughed as they chewed their akumaki. 

“It’s bad. I know you guys don’t fear death. But I remembered Kanegasaki, and unintentionally…” 

“Nyaa. It's me who came out with this tactic. As the person who made the suggestion, I shall advance next to Sagara. The one leading is Sagara, and I will defend him. When I fail at making a breakdown, I will die along with the other young soldiers. Ahahaha!” 

“Eh? That is no good! The enemy is out of our league! Yoshihiro, stop her!” 

“No. Iehisa is no longer a child. If a tactic that one has devised on their own fails, they must take responsibility to fight and die. The tactician is such a person.” 

“Y-Yoshihiro…” 

“Don’t worry. I am the Takegami of Satsuma. If it’s a fight in the battlefield, then I have a plan. I won’t let Iehisa die easily.” 

“What are you planning?” 

“I will also lead the charge. The sister shall sally forth along with Iehisa. Isn’t it good, Aneua? Toshihisa?” 

“I have no objection,” Toshihisa nodded, and Yoshihisa declared her decision. 

“Iehisa, Yoshihiro, go! Run faster than Kai Soun! Escort Sagara Yoshiharu to Sagara Yoshihi!” 

*** 

The Shimazu army was only 200 soldiers. 

The 200 soldiers were aiming for Hibiki-no-Hara and advanced harmoniously as they bellowed a cry of a wild monkey. 

Leading the vanguard was Sagara Yoshiharu and Shimazu Iehisa. 

Then immediately followed by Shimazu Yoshihiro. 

However, there was no appearance of Tokuchiyo. “It’s impossible for a princess without actual fighting experience to do to the breakthrough on the enemy,” Toshihisa stopped her. “I acknowledge your swordsmanship. However, even if knowledge about the Taisha-Ryu style has been acquired, you can’t survive with only one-on-one swordplay in the battlefield where there is a large amount of soldiers mixed together,” since she was persuaded politely, Tokuchiyo couldn’t have her own way. 

At this point, Tokuchiyo seemed to have noticed for the first time that Yoshihi was always putting her on a safe zone and protected her from the whirlpool of battle in Southern Higo. 

Yoshiharu, “You must survive,” conveyed those words to her as Tokuchiyo saw Yoshiharu off. 

On the south side of Hibiki-no-Hara, the detached army arranged by Kai Soun to block the Shimazu army numbered 1000 soldiers. 

Furthermore, the main unit under the direct control of Kai Soun should have been included in the detachment force originally. In fact, the units led by Kai Soun was on the north side now. 

He judged that the 200 soldiers of the Shimazu army would be tough, even more than the 500 soldiers of the Sagara Clan. 

It was the expression of determination from Kai Soun to not to let Shimazu’s reserve forces show themselves. 

Soon, the figure of the enemies who were trying to establish out a stronghold and engage the Shimazu army could be seen. The troops on the left wing seemed to be ready to flee slightly, but the elite units trained by Kai Soun had assumed position on the center. 

There wasn’t a slight opening. And the Shimazu army must breakthrough the center. 

“Speaking of which, Goemon has disappeared again. Is she guarding Tokuchiyo?” Yoshiharu suddenly noticed. 

“Oh well, she is always an elusive person. It’s a usual thing for her to disappear suddenly.” 

“Sagara.” 

Iehisa showed an innocent smile, riding her horse like a charging gale. 

“Yes? What happened? If you are hungry, then have some Akumaki. It’s really delicious.” 

“I have no regrets here, even if I die. My fear towards my elder sisters, the fear for my blood, has been cleared up. It’s all thanks to Sagara.” 

“Iehisa. It’s still too early for you to die. Didn’t you want to fall in love? No matter what result turns out, don’t die.” 

“Sagara doesn’t know the outcome of this battle?” 

“Yes. In the history that I know, the Shimazu army did not send any reserve force for Sagara Yoshihi. Well, seen this way, there would be no leeway to take at all.” 

“Is that so? If it’s like that, so be it. It’s like what Sagara said about the future not being fixed in one place. But I think the future has been partly changed.” 

“Yes. It’s like that.” 

“It is all because of the effort that Sagara has done. But after fighting this battle, we could grasp a new future.” 

“But Iehisa. This isn’t the place where you are leaving your ‘will’ and will die. You are still young. It’s your side who’s supposed to inherit that ‘will.’ Please don’t forget this.” 

“Nyaa. If I lose Sagara here, it will be my greatest regret. I want to spend more time with Sagara. There are still a lot of places in the capital that I haven’t visited yet. More than that, there is still something that I haven’t conveyed to Sagara. If you die before I tell it, it will be my regret for all my life. I don’t want that.” [Death flag, death flag. Death flag everywhere.] 

“An important thing?” 

“It isn’t a bad thing. It’s a good thing. After Sagara arrives at Sagara Yoshihi’s place and I have successfully defended you, I will rouse my courage and tell you about it. So it’s decided. It will be my victory.” 

“I am a child who has been recognized as a full-fledged strategist by my onee-sama,” Iehisa showed her white teeth. 

The Shimazu’s 200 soldiers who had been lined in a column formation, with resolution for an honorable death, crashed against Kai Soun’s detached forces that numbered 1000 and formed a wall. 

Even if the person in question, Kai Soun, was absent, their defenses were solid, and the crane wing formation was executed carefully as a close defensive formation. It wasn’t something that the Shimazu army could breakthrough so easily. 

The differences between the armies were overwhelming. 

In favor of using strength on a great number of soldiers, Kai Soun’s forces pushed away the Shimazu army that had made a column in order to make a breakthrough on the center; the encirclement was narrowing. 

They were outnumbered. The men of Satsuma Hayato fell one after another. 

However, from the other side of their comrades’ corpses, the swordsmen, one after another, “Chestoooo,” roared like wild monkeys as they carried out a daring suicidal raid. 

Soun’s elite soldiers had been used as a wall against the Shimazu army. But the absence of Kai Soun had made change little by little. 

The drill had become a long, thin line; with furious speed and insanity that aimed at a single point, the Shimazu army repeated their charge even if their forces were being shaven one after another. Finally, the long crane wing formation couldn’t hold on any longer. 

A slight opening appeared on the defensive formation of impregnable guards. 

“Iehisa-sama, we’re changing the history of the Shimazu Clan, who made Sagara Yoshihi die without help in Hibiki-no-Hara!” 

Niiro Musahsi who had been Iehisa’s private tutor took his spears up and was cutting deep into the enemy in order to make a hole. Because of her tactic, the brave men of Shimazu fell down one by one. 

Iehisa felt like crying. She wanted to complain. But Yoshihiro and Yoshiharu rode on her sides, silently supporting Iehisa. 

It wasn’t about her painful suicidal fight against the difference of her blood lineage anymore. In the future, as one of the Shimazu 4 Sisters, and as the tactician of the Shimazu Clan, Shimazu Iehisa would live in dignity without shame. 

In front of those two, I want to prove it. 

Now is the time for the heroic men of Satsuma Hayato to cut deep within the enemy. I am already alright. I wanted to be recognized! 

“Musashi! All of the young soldiers! This isn’t a fight to cast your life away! This is the fight to save Sagara Yoshihi’s life!” 

Iehisa whipped her horse and swung her war fan, her horse then galloping in full speed. 

She dove into the frontline, cutting countless enemies with Niiro Musashi next to her. 

“Pierce! Pierce! Pierce the enemies!” 

“You mustn’t let Hime-sama die! If she dies, the pride of Satsuma Hayato’s men dies here!” Niiro Musashi roared as the men of Sastsuma Hayato finally broke through at one point. 

In the middle of the heavy horizontal formation, a hole had been made. 

Kai Soun’s detached force that had been a wall against the Shimazu army collapsed. 

When the first line was peeled off, a hole being thrust into, the soldiers who were holding in the 2nd and 3rd lines, “A bear has appeared in the battlefield,” became restless. 

A herd of black Asian bears [Yes. “Herd” is used to emphasize the bears individually, not collectively], disturbed by the sound of battle, came down from the mountain and began to rampage in Hibiki-no-Hara. A portion of Kai Soun’s forces must go to suppress the bears. The wall had become thinner. 

“Fate has finally turned!” Yoshiharu thought. 

The Shimazu army broke through the small opening, and then quickly fled from the stampede. 

At the other side of the broken wall, Sagara Yoshihi was seen. 

But Kai Soun’s main force from the north had already surrounded her main camp. 

Kai Soun’s main force surrounded Yoshihi’s main camp on every direction. 

The Shimazu army had just broken through the wall, and there was still some distance to the main camp. 

Furthermore, an arquebus army that Kai Soun had hired lined up between the main camp and the Shimazu army to prevent their further advance, which had just penetrated the wall. 

“Nyaa, Kai Soun is faster than us! He’s got time to make a counter! Moreover, that’s a lot of arquebuses!” 

“I will take the lead! Rout the enemies that are blocking us, make way to Sagara Yoshihi’s main camp!” 

The famous horse—Hisatsuki Kurige—with its large body, rushed forward together with Yoshihiro. 

“With just a horse? Yoshihiro-neechan, it’s absurd to use it against Tanegashimas!” 

“Ah. It’s impossible if I do it alone. Iehisa, bring out the arquebus corps! Launch a barrage from the back and support me!” 

“Yoshihiro-neechan, it’s unreasonable to draw out Tanegashimas behind you! Any mistake will result in Yoshihiro-neechan getting shot as well!” 

“Iehisa. Grandfather’s keen insight was truly right. Possessing talent in military tactics. You are the treasure that the Shimazu family has produced. I believe in you. So, I will leave my back to you.” 

“Yoshhiro-neechan…” 

“I don’t believe in fate and the future. Everything is the result of humans’ actions and will. Victory or defeat is a chance. There will be no regret if I get shot by a stray bullet and die. Sagara Yoshiharu! I entrust my imouto to you!” 

“I understand. Go!” 

Yoshihiro rushed forward with her horse against Kai Soun’s forces that were blocking and shooting at her one after another. 

“Shimazu Isshin Yoshihiro has come!” 

“Shoot! Shoot them!” Iehisa gave order to the Shimazu gun troops to let out an artillery barrage with Tanegashimas. It’s different from modern day firearms. The accuracy of the Tanegashimas of the Sengoku era was low. In other words, the probability of it missing from its target was high. But Yoshihiro continued to run straight through without looking back. Iehisa had overcome the fear in her heart, which seemed to have stopped beating, and ordered the corps to shoot simultaneously. The surroundings of Yoshihiro, who kept on running at high speed, became a literal “personification of death” where bullets from foes and allies flew amiss. 

“I’ve never seen such an absurd and heroic sister,” Yoshiharu became amazed, feeling jealous. 

“Unless it were the Shura among Shuras—Kai Soun—there is no one who can hold the Takegami—Shimazu Yoshihiro—back,” Yoshiharu was convinced. 

But a battle was ever-changing. 

“Nyaa. The direction of the wind has changed. Yoshihiro-neechan!” 

When she and the others readied their Tanegashimas at their horses, the moment the bullets were shot, Iehisa shouted loudly. 

For an instant, a gust of wind blew 

The wind bent the trajectory of the bullets that Iehisa had shot, directing them to Yoshihiro’s back. 

However, as if it were trying to protect Yoshihiro, Hizaori Kurige bent its huge body forward, and the bullet barely missed. 

At the same time the bullet missed, Hizaori Kurige raised its head again. “No time to waste when they are recharging their guns,” it raised its forefeet and rushed toward the enemies. 

Iehisa felt her strength collapse on top of her horse, “… Haa~. I wet my pants…” 

Yoshihiro threw away her spear with a scratched blade and draw her sword out as she patted her beloved horse. 

“I was saved again by you. You are truly wild, Hizaori Kurige.” 

*** 

Toshihisa, who was watching over Yoshihiro and Iehisa’s charge from the back, noticed something unusual happening in this moment.

“Their allies’ perturbed actions are awkward,” she whispered quietly to Yoshihisa. 

“Onee-sama. The movement of Kai Soun’s gun corps is strange. Somehow, not all of them are focusing on the Shimazu army. If I judge it from their war banners, more than half of gun corps still remain at the back of the leading banner under Kai Soun’s, who is rushing to Yoshihi’s main camp from the north, direct command.” 

“What do you mean, Toshihisa-chan?” 

“I don’t know. It’s like they’re cutting off a path of retreat for their own leader Kai Soun…” 

“Toshihisa-chan. Yoshihiro-chan is opening up a path one after another like a fierce demon, but Kai Soun’s advancement speed is abnormal. They’ve arrived earlier. We are not on time.” 

“Yes. It will be bad if someone has arrived earlier than us. That’s why I have prepared a measure for the worst scenario.” 

“Measure for the worst scenario?” 

“Given the position of the two armies, it’s possible that Sagara Yoshiharu won’t arrive at the main camp on time. Therefore, I’ve already taken one move ahead. By making a perfect opening on Kai Soun’s awareness, I have sent another rescuer to Sagara Yoshihi’s main camp” 

“Eh? Eh? Who?” 

“However, if my expectations are met… She and Yoshihi might get killed.” 

Toshihisa’s unease was proven right. [Fuck this.] 

*** 

At the uninhabited main camp, Sagara Yoshihi sat down, waiting for her fate without drawing her sword at all. 

Would Kai Soun come to kill her because she had broken their vow? 

Or would Sagara Yoshiharu break through Kai Soun’s solid defense and come running to change Yoshihi’s fate? 

Yoshihi didn’t want Yoshiharu to disappear. 

Therefore, the former… Even though she was waiting for Kai Soun, but at the bottom of her heart, she was imagining a future where Yoshiharu would come crying in to the camp; it was an amusing thing. 

And the answer from reality was much cruel to Yoshihi. 

As for that reality, the Kyushu of the Sengoku era wasn’t a world of fairy tale. 

Wrapped in a black Namban overcoat smeared with blood. A man of huge build. Kai Soun had appeared in front of Yoshihi. 

Sagara Yoshiharu hadn’t come in time. 

Yoshihi thought that this was alright. 

“Your willpower is gone, Yoshihi. I’ve come over for that day’s promise.” 

It’s not possible to read Kai Soun’s feelings behind his eyes that were covered by black sunglasses. 

“It’s alright, Uncle Soun. I’ve come here to be defeated by uncle.” 

Yoshihi thrust her fingers in front of Soun and bowed without standing up. 

“You should’ve been defeated at Kizakihara and surrendered to the Shimazu Clan, and are supposed to be married to Sagara Yoshiharu. But, Sagara Yoshiharu will disappear if you marry him. It’s because you are clearly Sagara Yoshiharu’s direct ancestor. I heard it from the lisping ninja. Did you come here to die because of Sagara Yoshiharu?” [Wow. These people’s information networks are amazing.] 

“… Yes. It’s one of the reasons why I decided to break the promise I made with Uncle Soun off. If Yoshiharu and my life are in a balance, the other one should choose Yoshiharu’s life. I finally found that, the meaning of why I was born. If I die here, Yoshiharu will be able to live. I don’t want to bring his will that has been running on with all of his effort to nothing.” 

“That ninja doesn’t seem to want you to die.” 

“It’s a meddlesome habit just like her master. I wanted to be of use for Yoshiharu. There is no regret. And so, I will part away from uncle here…. Thank you for always, always protecting us two sisters, Uncle Soun.” 

“Is Sagara Yoshiharu a man you can entrust Tokuchiyo to?” 

“Yes, that is so.” 

“When you die, the direct connection of blood between you and Yoshiharu will be cut. I heard that Tokuchiyo would become the direct ancestor of Yoshiharu instead. In that way, history will balance itself. You will lose your life for Yoshiharu, and even your blood connection to him. Will that be fine for you?” 

“… Fufu. Though she can’t speak clearly, she is talkative. Blood connection is not a problem. I was a total stranger, but uncle has loved me like your own daughter. The density of one’s blood is unrelated to whether you are a family or not.” 

“It is so. Similarly, whether you are the legitimate or illegitimate child. It is all unrelated to you sisters of the Sagara Clan.” 

“… Yes. I was able to finally understand it. It was painful throughout. I’ve held a secret that I didn’t reveal to uncle all this time. But now, I will say it. I will die now, for I have found a person who can protect Tokuchiyo. This is what the Christian people call as ‘confessing.’ I hope that you will cut my neck once I finish.” 

“I’m not a padre, but a monk,” Soun said curtly. 

*** 

“I am… not… ‘Sagara Yoshihi…’ I am a fake.” 

Yoshihi confessed. 

She intended to die in silence without telling anyone. 

But I can’t endure it anymore, and I want to reveal it when I face Kai Soun. 

Because I believe that if it’s Uncle Soun, he wouldn’t leak the truth to other people. 

“Tokuchiyo and I were coincidentally born on the same day. One is the lawful wife’s child, and the other is the concubine’s child. But the daughter of the concubine was born just slightly earlier. I am the concubine’s daughter. I am an illegitimate child who originally had no right to succeed the family estate. Tokuchiyo is the lawful wife’s child. That child is the legitimate daughter of the Sagara family. The name ‘Yoshihi’ that the Ashikaga family has been given to inherit the shogunate is actually the name of that child.” 

“Grandfather was concerned of the complicated birth of these sisters,” Yoshihi tried to tell it to Soun with a smile. But she wasn’t able to laugh. Her vision was blurred by tears. The gigantic figure of Kai Soun who was looking down upon her, that image was like the figure of Nio. 

“To prevent the internal disturbance of the whole family that has been the curse of the Sagara family, and to leave ‘the blood of the Sagara origin’ to prosperity; once we sisters were born, grandfather immediately took a measure. I was replaced by Tokuchiyo. I, as the eldest sister, am treated as the legitimate child that the lawful wife has given birth to, while the younger sister Tokuchiyo is treated as the illegitimate child. Tokuchiyo was banished from Hitoyoshi Castle and was put at a temple in Yatsushiro Mountain… We sisters were born and separated immediately… As one can remember, Tokuchiyo had always disagreed on living in the temple, and she became a wild child that lived alone in the mountain.” 

“While I was attended by the retainers at Hitoyoshi Castle without knowing anything at all, Tokuchiyo wandered around the mountain accompanied by a bear; she is a pitiful child,” Yoshihi covered her face with her fingers and continued talking. Her tears wouldn’t stop even when her eyelids were covered by her fingers. 

“What do you mean by leaving ‘the blood of the Sagara origin’ to prosperity?” 

“My wise grandfather judged that the Sengoku era would end in several decades in the future. By the fact that Tanegashima were introduced to Japan, war would change. The era of fierce wars of firearms would arrive, and a hopeful fin de siecle will come. The Sagara Clan which is surrounded by great powers will not be able to continue being a daimyo of the Sengoku era. There are only two choices: to be destroyed by a conqueror or become their subordinate.” 

“Therefore, the legitimate child Tokuchiyo was falsified as the illegitimate child and sent to the temple?” 

“It is so. Even if the Sagara Clan, as a daimyo of the Sengoku era, becomes extinct; as long as Tokuchiyo survives, then the pure blood of the Sagara family can be left to the future generation. I, the illegitimate child, succeeded the Sagara family in disguise instead of the legitimate child. I will live for the continuation of the Sagara family name. If the family name miraculously survives, then it’s all good. Even if I am defeated in war and executed, as long as Tokuchiyo is unhurt, then the bloodline of the family head won’t go extinct. My grandfather chose blood rather than the Sagara Clan’s name.” 

“It would not be a problem if the illegitimate child is executed?” 

“… Soon after receiving the birthright, the truth was revealed by grandfather; I despaired when I was considered as a bird in a cage to be sacrificed for the sake of the Sagara family. Without knowing anything, Tokuchiyo who was sent to Yatsushiro was pitiful. I wanted to bring her back to Hitoyoshi Castle and give the birthright to Tokuchiyo immediately. Grandfather asked me this, “Then Tokuchiyo will be killed. You still don’t mind?” I immediately chose to protect Tokuchiyo without hesitation. In truth, when grandfather passed away, a person from uncle’s clan revolted. They would’ve deceived Tokuchiyo if grandfather didn’t send her out of our house. Tokuchiyo and I would have to kill each other, and that is how it would’ve turned out.” 

“Without husband nor child, I could make the Sagara Clan survive. That’s because the Sagara Clan will be transferred to the direct descendant of Tokuchiyo right away. Because I must not let the truth be unveiled, I continued to pretend that I had prejudice against Tokuchiyo and hated her. The clan would revolt should the truth be revealed. If there is a revolt, Tokuchiyo and I would have to fight,” Yoshihi cried. 

“It’s my cursed fate that doesn’t allow me to live my life for my own sake. It’s a sorrowful thing that I can’t embrace and sooth Tokuchiyo with gentle. I feel sorry for Tokuchiyo who was thrown out to the mountains knowing nothing. Therefore, when the whole clan rebelled against me and I escaped from Hitoyoshi Castle, I shouldn’t die, no matter what. I couldn’t leave Tokuchiyo and die. I couldn’t give up. That’s why I begged for my life from Uncle Soun…” 

“However, you said that you had found the meaning of your life. But isn’t it only misfortune for a fake Sagara Yoshihi like you to live in misery and suffering?” 

“Sagara Yoshiharu told me. Because he was captivated by Oda Nobuna that he decided to stay in this Sengoku era than to pass through Amano-Iwato. I understand that significant way of life, because I am tied to an existence called ‘Tokuchiyo,’ who is my younger sister, too. If I die here, Sagara Yoshiharu would survive. Tokuchiyo could regain Hitoyoshi Castle and finally become the real ‘Sagara Yoshihi.’ If Sagara Yoshiharu looks after her, then the Sagara Clan and Tokuchiyo will surely be alright. I can entrust Tokuchiyo to him in peace. Furthermore, Yoshiharu and Tokuchiyo are directly connected by blood. All is settled peacefully. To the place where it should be. Therefore, it’s my fate, to disappear here.” 

“Do you love Tokuchiyo?” 

“I love her. With the difference in lineage, I, who am a substitute by obligation, couldn’t honestly touch Tokuchiyo. But it’s different now. It’s already too late…” 

“Have you fallen in love with Sagara Yoshiharu?” 

“Yes, it’s probably, like that. When I learnt that I absolutely couldn’t marry him, I felt dread over my fate, for a little. If there were a god in the heavens, I thought that I wanted him to grant my dream, for at least once. My confession ends here…” 

“Uncle. The outskirts of the main camp have become noisy. I want to accomplish my fate before Sagara Yoshiharu arrives here. He certainly will come here despite innumerable difficulties. To rescue me. For that reason, he will seriously do that even if he is about to disappear. Before that happens, please bring everything to an end,” Yoshihi deeply bowed her head, showing her white nape. 

“Cut it, please cut it,” it was murmured with a whisper and shivers. 

Kai Soun nodded, “I understand.” 

“However, there is one secret that I have been hiding from you.” 

“… That is?” 

“I was informed by your grandfather that he had substituted Tokuchiyo with you. Just in case that you die young for not being able to escape from an urgent problem without sacrifice, then Tokuchiyo would be the next heiress. And if you couldn’t endure living like a bird in a cage, your grandfather would allow your emancipation to the outside world. He chose me, from a neighboring country, as the guardian for that purpose. After all, there is no credibility in the Sagara Clan. I also added some things into the written oath: “If Sagara Yoshihi dies without leaving a child, or if she decides to abandon her birthright on her volition; then Tokuchiyo would be the next heiress, and Kai Soun should continuously protect Tokuchiyo.” 

“It’s a lie. Uncle should’ve sunk the written oath into the pond. So the evidence is…” 

“It was a lie that I had sunk it.” 

Kai Soun took the written oath out that should’ve sunk from his breast pocket, and subsequently opened it. 

“… Why… Why? Why is it not thrown away? I should’ve broken the oath with uncle. Why?” 

“I don’t intend to comply with a selfish old man. When I was about to put an end to the Sagara Clan’s internal revolt, I was going to precisely cut Tokuchiyo. I thought that if Tokuchiyo were killed, you would be able to live your own life for the first time. But you refused that. Even though you have suffered so much in living as a scapegoat, you were going to stupidly continue protecting your younger sister. The noble thing that I have lost after killing my three sons, I found in you. And you were right.” 

I don’t intend to make you wait for a long time, I will die soon too. 

Go to Yomi earlier, Sagara Yoshihi. 

“I have decided that I won’t kill a woman. If I can, I wanted to emancipate you to a world outside the Sagara Clan. But the rebel who defied my master and the person who broke the written oath are different. If I can’t kill you here, then the death of the three sons whom I purged as rebels will have no meaning. Forgive me.” 

“I am not allowed to forgive anything. After all, my life originally was given by you, Uncle. Fare thee well, uncle.” 

Soun became silent. He raised his sword cane slowly over Yoshihi’s head. 

And at the speed of lightning, the sword cane swung down. 

But Yoshihi’s neck hadn’t fallen. 

“I won’t let you do that to my onee-sama!” 

The intruder who fell from the sky held a bamboo spear, standing before Kai Soun and blocking his sword cane. 

It was a tanned girl wearing a handmade armor from bear skin. 

The bright, cheerful, and pure “hime” whose real name should be “Sagara Yoshihi.” 

It was the younger sister who yearned and loved “Yoshihi” the whole time. 

“… Tokuchiyo, you, why are you here?” 

“Hibiki-no-Hara is a small marshland surrounded by a mountain at every direction! I made a surprise attack with Inuwarashi and the bears from the top of the mountain! Taking the chance when the Shimazu army and Soun armies fought each other intensively! For the detail, please ask Shimazu Toshihisa!” 

“But why hadn’t you been found yet until you came here?” 

“It’s possible to hide behind Inuwarashi’s back with a bear skin! It’s the wisdom of survival in the mountains, Onee-sama! It should be called a camouflage!” 

“I am caught off guard? Shimazu Toshihisa…” Kai Soun threw away his sword cane, murmuring. 

“Please wait, uncle! Please don’t involve Tokuchiyo in this!” 

“That is not possible, this girl has interrupted it.” 

“Tokuchiyo, go back! You fool! You are entirely unrelated to us!” 

“I refuse, Onee-sama! I will not return!” 

“You refuse to turn back?!” 

“A duel, Kai Soun! I’ve continued on sincerely mastering the Taisha-Ryu style swordsmanship in order to protect my sister!” [Let’s just interpret it that her sojutsu is a bastardization of a kind of kenjutsu] 

Tokuchiyo brandished the secret art of Taisha-Ryu style… However, Soun stopped the bamboo spear that Tokuchiyo had thrown with his elbow that was covered with iron plate. He sandwiched it between his elbows and knees, and instantly broke it. At the same time, he kicked Tokuchiyo’s solar plexus, and she fell into Yoshihi’s arms. 

“It is a good skill. But it isn’t possible for any school art of swordsmanship to break my self-taught unorthodox style. I know your sword style. But you don’t know mine. Victory and defeat through the use of a real sword are decided by the style of your enemy, tactics, and whether you know techniques.” 

My art isn’t the kenjutsu of samurais. 

It\s much closer to the art of a ninja. 

It’s specialized only on killing the enemy. 

Kai Soun took Tokuchiyo’s combat strength away with a blow. 

Yoshihi hugged Tokuchiyo’s body which couldn’t stand up anymore. 

At last, I am able to hold Tokuchiyo, but again… 

“… Uuu. It was useless… He’s too strong… I’m sorry, Onee-sama…” 

“Don’t talk! I will beg for your life, so don’t say any unnecessary things anymore!” 

“No. I won’t be silent! Although I can’t fight any longer, but my mouth can still talk! Kai Soun! I have the entire responsibility of the crime that Onee-sama betrayed you! Because I am the real Sagara Clan’s 18th heiress, Sagara Yoshihi!” 

Yoshihi was appalled, lost for words. 

“I’m sorry, I have heard it,” Tokuchiyo made a wry smile. 

“Tokuchiyo. Did you listen to my words?” 

“Because you didn’t want to be involved in the Shuras’ wars in Kyushu, you wanted to conceal it all this time. Because I am not smart, I wasn’t able to notice it. I’m sorry, Onee-sama.” 

“Tokuchiyo. I who am an illegitimate child banished you who are the legitimate child from Hitoyoshi Castle. Haven’t you born grudge against me who keep pretending to be the head of the Sagara Clan?” 

“Onee-sama abandoned her own life in order to become my scapegoat. The gentle Onee-sama who inherited the Sagara family to keep me alive. I can’t bear a grudge. Because everyday was happy for me. It’s much painful for Onee-sama, wasn’t it? I’m sorry.” 

“… It’s different. You were deceived by grandfather and me.” 

“It was such a good play, wasn’t it? I wanted to take up a spear and become a princess general, wanting to protect my elder sister; but I couldn’t win against Kai Soun. There is only death for a Shura who has been defeated. Therefore, this is the last chance for us to talk and embrace each other as sisters.” 

“… After all, I wasn’t able to protect you, at all…” 

Yoshihi hugged Tokuchiyo’s warm body. 

I have obtained the thing which I thought I couldn’t get for eternity. 

Even if it’s just for a little while. 

“Onee-sama. There will be no more obstacles…” 

“That’s right. I leave it you, uncle. If you choose one, then kill me. If you want to kill us both, then please pierce my body and Tokuchiyo’s with one spear. So that, after death, we sisters won’t be separated.” 

The scene of the night where Kai Soun followed his master’s order to kill his three sons who had plotted a rebellion against his master: it was reflected on the figure of these two sisters who embraced each other, prepared for death. 

“… There are four sons of mine who communicated secretly with the Ito Clan, planning a rebellion. The eldest brother protected the 3 younger brothers, when all of the responsibilities lied in the eldest brother.” 

Soun killed the three younger brothers. 

But only the eldest brother that he couldn’t kill. 

At first, all of them would be executed. 

But only the eldest brother was kept alive. 

“Father. If you do not kill me here. I will kill father eventually,” the eldest brother gave such a warning. Kai Soun then reported to his lord, “The eldest brother didn’t assist in the rebellion,” and saved his life. 

Soun himself didn’t know why he had done that. 

To daringly let one person live on, I might want to let my son who survived kill me. Now, can these two Sagara sisters be both killed? 

Looking down at the trembling sisters who were embracing each other, for the first time that this 40-year old Shura felt so perplexed, unable to control himself. 

Go away, never appear in front of me, ever again, Soun couldn’t suppress the impulse to shout it. 

But I would betray master’s order if I overlook the Sagara sisters. Then the death of my 3 sons whom I killed by master’s order would become meaningless. Then, what meaning is there in killing these two sisters who were separated immediately at birth, who are embracing each other and mutually devoted to each other the entire time? For the Aso Clan. For the man called Kai Soun. 

Soun’s hesitation would definitely force the Sagara sisters into a corner. 

A gust of wind blew, the heavy smell of smoke powder drifted throughout the camp. 

“Yoshihi, Tokuchiyo. It was my mistake that you two gathered here. When I hesitated and failed to take Yoshihi’s neck… It is viewed that there is a rebellious heart inside me, a grudge for having to kill my sons by the master’s order.” 

“Uncle.” 

“This smell is surely…” 

“Time is up. My lord has set a trap up…” 

*** 

The thunderous roars of bears that were rampaging in the grasslands resounded throughout Hibiki-no-Hara. 

At this time, the Shimazu army that were running to the south side of the main camp had found a way out with Yoshihiro on the lead. 

Yoshiharu was approaching Yoshihi’s main camp little by little. 

Jumping off from his horse, Yoshiharu tore the camp curtain, tumbling upon just the front of Yoshihi. 

Yoshihi’s main camp bathed in the salvo of the Aso Clan’s gun corps positioned on the north. 

“Wha… Whaaaaaaat?!” 

Out of guilt and fear for having ordered Kai Soun to kill his family, the Aso Clan bore suspicion on Soun’s betrayal. “When Soun hesitates, shoot Yoshihi’s main camp!” 

“Toshihisa used our Shimazu army’s charge to make up for a smokescreen, leading Tokuchiyo to the main camp! How unfavorable, the second alternative plan has backfired!” 

”If both the Sagara sisters get shot, Sagara-san will be hurt! Go stop them!” 

Yoshihiro and Iehisa who had received Toshihisa’s messenger shouted and led the soldiers towards the Aso Clan’s gun corps. They were all scattered around, but at that time, the enemies had finished shooting Yoshihi’s main camp. The shooting stopped. When Yoshiharu let out a courageous shout that reached Yoshihi, a lot of bullets had already gone through Yoshihi’s and Tokuchiyo’s bodies… Or that was how it was supposed to be. 

But Yoshihi and Tokuchiyo who were embracing each other, protected by Soun’s back, were still alive. 

The two people were unharmed. 

“Yoshiharu. I know you will come.” 

“Eh? Why are Onee-sama and I still alive?” 

“Tokuchiyo, because of Uncle Soun, the two of us…” 

The two sisters’ small bodies were covered by Soun’s gigantic body, his black Namban coat spread. 

“Soun, you. You protected those two and received all the bullets on your back.” 

“Sagara Yoshiharu. I am an assassin. This overcoat is made from iron wire. Besides, I covered all of my body with Namban armor. To shield these two small girls.” 

“But, even if you are armored, just how many bullets have you received in your body?! You intend to stall them for Yoshihi and Tokuchiyo’s sake!” [Isn’t dat fuqing obvious?!] 

“I have eaten 10 bullets, but it’s not a problem. The bullet did not hit the vital areas. Kid. Though it may seem bad for you who feel a sense of aesthetics towards a man’s death, but I won’t die yet at just this degree. Isn’t it said that a man should die for the sake of women? You intend to exchange your death for others, how naive. Like a kid who got drunk. In case you have found all of the truth, you must pick one’s life. When I stalled those bullets here, and breathed my dying breath, it might be a beautiful story. Maybe an impressive tale about the end of a man’s life, the man called Kai Soun. However, I’ve left one piece of wound in the hearts of Yoshihi and Tokuchiyo. Leaving that aside, I’ve lived, and died ignominiously, as a Shura who killed his sons. I choose to die without any regret, from anyone, and any impressive tale.” 

“There is one other man here. One man whom I should aim to become,” Yoshiharu thought. “Rather than dying beautifully and leaving sentiments to other people’s minds, he chose to live ignominiously and die a dog’s death… For me, such a severe way of living, to have such a lonely, and painful death?” Yoshiharu trembled. 

“… You are unbelievable. My life is sweet compared to yours. I was afraid of being forgotten from people’s memories all this time.” 

“It’s natural. It’s because you are a kid who doesn’t know a woman yet. That will be fine for now.” 

“Uncle. From your feet. Blood is…” 

“Don’t worry. I still have enough energy to ride a horse.” 

“I will return to the Aso Clan,” Soun said so as he staggered. 

A great deal of blood loss was going to make his consciousness grow distant. 

Still, Soun did not fall. 

“It’s useless, uncle! You have already been shot! I’m afraid that if you come back for revenge, you would be executed as a criminal in the Aso Clan!” 

“… I don’t intend to end my life as a meaningless thing. I made that distinction when I killed my three sons. In one’s own way.” 

Yoshiharu tried to tell Soun about his future. 

“Killing your three sons means that there is still one person you didn’t kill, right? You should have 4 people as your sons! If you return to the Aso Clan, your loyalty will be doubted by your master again! In your master’s residence, who tried to kill you who did very much for the Aso Clan, you don’t need to swear loyalty anymore. You don’t need to come back to the Aso Clan. If you are going back beyond that…” 

“Kid. Don’t say anything for what is ahead. I will decide my own destiny.” 

Soun mounted a horse, blowing out a rough breath. 

“He is still alive even with so much injury, furthermore conscious,” Yoshiharu couldn’t believe it. 

Hugging Tokuchiyo who couldn’t get up yet after receiving Soun’s attack, Yoshihi looked at Soun who was on horseback. 

“Uncle Soun. You’ve protected my life, and moreover even rescued Tokuchiyo. I don’t know how to say my gratitude to uncle.” 

“… I don’t need any gratitude. I only accomplished your grandfather’s request. To begin with, my master will shot this main camp unless I kill you two sisters. I am a retainer of the Aso Clan. And you who are a person of the Sagara Clan already belong to the Shimazu Clan. From now on, we are enemies.” 

“Now, we, won’t we be able to meet?” 

“I won’t die so easily. Until the moment I die, I will continue living. I don’t think about my death until the end. If you live, there is a chance for us to meet again. Live on, Yoshihi. Look for the meaning of why you were born. There is no meaning in death, but there is in living.” 

“… Yes” 

“Sagara Yoshiharu. I leave Yoshihi and Tokuchiyo to you.” 

“Yes.” 

“If it’s you. I can trust you. Farewell.” 

Yoshihiro and Iehisa came running to the main camp after making the Aso army retreat at the end of the fierce battle. The two people were astonished that Yoshihi and Tokuchiyo were unharmed and still alive. “Kai Soun defended these two people,” they immediately understood. 

Soun was badly injured to such degree. 

“What is happening in the Aso Clan now. Trying to suspect Kai Soun’s betrayal in the middle of a fight, I can’t think of it to be something a samurai should do!” 

“Nyaa. These three people are still alive. Sagara hasn’t disappeared. That’s great!” 

“…  Greenhorn. How dull…” 

In response to Soun’s words, Yoshihiro raised her eyebrows. 

“What? The soldiers that you lead are being pushed by the Shimazu army and still continuing their retreat. This round is 80% Shimazu’s victory, and you still call us greenhorn?” 

The strongest, undefeated Shura of Kyushu. 

The Takegami and Satsuma’s Oni of Shimazu. 

Enemies by fate. 

When they met, they couldn’t help but emit fighting spirit from their whole body against each other. 

“Nyaa, nyaa. We have finally, narrowly rescued Yoshihi. If these two people fight each other, it will be a serious matter! Please stop, stop it!” Iehisa rushed and clung to Yoshiharu. 

However, “It’s alright,” Yoshiharu patted Iehisa’s head. 

Soun shrugged Yoshihiro’s fighting spirit off, as what Yoshiharu had expected. 

“It’s me who’ve reached Yoshihi first. You were one step behind. I did not lose. I simply handed over the victory to you, lass.” 

“Muu…” 

“However, Shimazu Yoshihiro, I want to fight you. I haven’t seen any Shura who could release such fighting spirit like you. Indeed, you are worthy of the title ‘Takegami.’ Whether I die or you will fall down, it will all be decided in one blow.” 

“Taisha-Ryu style has been seen through!” Tokuchiyo who as lifted by Yoshihi screamed unconsciously. 

“My swordsmanship isn’t only Taisha-Ryu. When facing such a real monster, I still have trump cards,” Yoshihiro smiled with apparent sincerity. 

“However, Kai Soun. It’s ridiculous if someone tries to duel me with the same state of a dead person. Even if I defeat you, it won’t do honor to my bravery. Try again after you’ve treat your injury.” 

“… I must give my gratitude to the Shimazu Clan who have sent a desperate reserve army to rescue Yoshihi. I will overlook your life today.” 

“Leave be. It’s our word, Kai Soun.” 

“It’s easy to drop your neck here, but I will bring this competition to an end now. I must come back to the Aso Clan and settle our issues. You go to Hyuga quickly and deal with the Otomo Clan.” 

Soun ran with his horse and passed through Yoshihiro who had become his archenemy, competing over the title of the strongest Shura of Kyushu. 

*** 

After Kai Soun had withdrawn from the battlefield, the Shimazu 4 Sisters along, with Yoshiharu and the Sagara sisters, immediately held a war council at the main camp in Hibiki-no-Hara. 

“Iyaa. That put me in cold sweat. Your nee-chan thought Yoshihi and Tokuchiyo were dead, I was impatient. It’s as if I were a villain who sent these two people to the jaws of death, putting them together and getting rid of them. Is that alright as the prologue of ‘The Legend of Shimazu Yoshihisa’s Villainy’ in its own right? The enemy of the legend is Kai Soun who protected the Sagara sisters. With Kai Soun’s lolicon spirit becoming a legend in the future, my legend of terror will spread throughout Kyushu!” 

“Aneue. Never mind about the joke, I want you to start the topic of our discussion immediately. Our situation is very critical.” 

“Yoshihisa-neesama. The Otomo Clan’s army has already swept the northern part of Hyuga that the Ito Clan abandoned over. Furthermore, they are going to surround Takajo Castle that the Shimazu Clan has just occupied. We were able to make peace with Kai Soun, but our friction with the Aso Clan will not dissolve easily. We, too, should hurry to Hyuga.” 

“But, Toshihisa. Even if we fight the Otomo Clan, the fight will be totally different from the usual, indecisive Otomo Sorin. That Namban strategist is a formidable adversary. Whether he is a person who thoroughly understands Japan’s martial law or tactics, or he is a person that we must thoroughly eliminate or someone whom we can compromise with, it’s necessary to know these before entering the battle.” 

“That’s right, Yoshihiro-neesama. Usually, the size of influence the ruler has and their attitude, for better or worse, is different for the Otomo army. Let’s send a messenger.” 

“Under the pretext of being a messenger, we will investigate Gaspard, Toshihisa.” 

“Yes, it’s like that. In a great war, if we don’t know the enemy, it’s a dangerous thing.” 

“Sagara. Please go to the Otomo Clan as a messenger from the Oda Clan. You are also going as the representative of the Shimazu Clan together!” 

Iehisa also proposed, “It has taken a long time, but a chance to carry out the order from Nobuna has finally come. I understand, I will go as well,” Yoshiharu nodded. 

“Iehisa? Isn’t it where I should go instead?” Toshihisa wondered, but, “Nyaa. I will go. I am already a full-fledged adult,” Iehisa paid no ear. 

“It’s alright, Toshihisa. Because I am going to be accompanied by Kuroda Kanbei and Frois-chan to mediate the concord between the Otomo and Shimazu armies, there shouldn’t be any worry that Iehisa might get assassinated.” 

“Konoe-sama as well. I’m a bit upset that it hasn’t been decided who among the Shimazu family will become Sagara’s wife; it should be done in haste.” 

“If I meet Gaspard, there is a great risk that I might get erased behind. It’s the same thing that happens wherever I go.” 

And an unexpected voice rang out. 

“I’m worried about Yoshiharu’s condition which is like fireflies entering the fire. And so, I will accompany Yoshiharu as his onee-sama. My situation is [being] a former ally of the Otomo Clan and the allied army, something like a bridge connecting to the Shimazu Clan. I am also an old acquaintance of Sorin.” 

Sagara Yoshihi volunteered herself as an envoy. 

“I’m thankful for that, but why not as imouto?” 

“It’s onee-sama. I am your ancestor. How could I be an imouto?” 

Tokuchiyo pulled  Yoshihi’s sleeve out, biting her Akumaki down. 

“Onee-sama. The Sagara Clan and bear-chan [Mind you?] have just recently become subordinates of the Shimazu Clan. If we come back together to Hitoyoshi Castle, won’t the vassals be shaken?” 

Inuwarashi that stood next to Tokuchiyo as it ate a pet food cried, “Gauu.” It seemed to be nodding. 

“Tokuchiyo. I will transfer the seat of the Sagara Clan’s head to you. As for me, I will be doing things with Sagara Yoshiharu from now on. It is pitiful that there isn’t a blood-related family nor a retainer for this man from the future. In addition, even though there are a strategist and a strong general, there isn’t a deputy general inside Yoshiharu’s army. So I, who am an excellent princess general, will become his ‘onee-sama’ from now on, intending to support the Sagara family of the Oda Clan from the shadow as his deputy general.” [Aaaand an official harem member has really appeared.] 

“Nyaa nyaa,” Iehisa raised a cry of kitten and stood up to charge between Yoshiharu and Yoshihi; to separate those two. But, “Now, now,” she was restrained by both Yoshihisa and Toshihisa. 

“Aaah. Such thing. To be an elder sister? *Cough*, *cough*.” 

“I want to spend time with you a little more. My life has been saved by Uncle Soun twice. I want to live without any regret.” 

Yoshiharu and the Shimazu Three Sisters were already informed that Yoshihi was actually the illegitimate child of the Sagara Clan and that Tokuchiyo was the legitimate child. Yoshihi consulted the matter about transferring her birthright to Tokuchiyo, and it was accepted. 

“What is this? You will become a dummy general for my imouto, you intend to give your life up again, and, furthermore, you want to throw it away for me?” Yoshiharu was surprised, but he accepted Yoshihi’s proposal. 

However, the talk about joining his corps as his ‘onee-sama’ was a surprise to Yoshiharu as well. 

As for Yoshihi, who was devoted and carried a fierce dedication for her younger sister’s life, there was no one else that Yoshiharu could qualify as his ‘deputy general.’ In Yoshiharu’s army, although there are 2 great genius strategists—Hanbei and Kanbei—as well as the brave general, Yamanaka Shikanosuke, there wasn’t any commander from his family who could act as the general for Yoshiharu during Yoshiharu’s absence. Shikanosuke had the capacity to be a commander, but she was not a kin of Yoshiharu. Because she had the fame of being an outsider and background as the hero of the Amago Clan. Even if she were the symbol of “martial arts” of the main force of Sagara Corps, it was still hard to consider her as the ‘deputy general’ who managed the Sagara Corps during Yoshiharu’s absence. “For I who am a country bumpkin from Izumo to become the deputy general of the Sagara Clan? That’s impossible! Oh? My lord knows that this is impossible and is forcing the Seven Sufferings and Eight Pains to this Shikanosuke,” the person in question was being modest and held back. [I wonder how Nobuna will react to this?] 

Nene was the one who formed the Sagara Kindergarten Army, but his younger sisters almost had no fighting experience yet. It would take some time for his younger sisters to grow. 

However, if Yoshihi, who had fought as a daimyo in the Kyushu of Shuras, joined Sagara’s family as the deputy general; then the handicap of Yoshiharu’s corps would be greatly removed, and Yoshiharu would be able to work three times more. 

But above all else, “I want to start a new life with you. Please accept me,” when Yoshihi smiled like so, he couldn’t decline. 

“Hey, I am also like a younger sister to Sagara!” There was one princess general who let such a cry out, but to Yoshihiro, who was shocked, “Am I being deserted? Am I not qualified as your nee-san, Iehisa,” was crying, unable to say anything anymore. 

“Tokuchiyo, you have learnt my secret. You are loved by the people and vassal corps of our territory, and there is Sagara Yoshiharu who is a senior statesman of the Oda Clan as the guardian of the current Sagara Clan. All members of the Shimazu family will not receive you harshly. The illegitimate child has become the legitimate child. The time that position is restored has come.” 

“Onee-sama… That’s right. My onee-sama has finally found the reason of her life! Onee-sama wanted to go out of Higo and see the world outside Kyushu. I will protect the Sagara Clan in Kyushu so that onee-sama could return to Hitoyoshi Castle anytime.” 

“Yes. The name ‘Yoshih’ will also be transferred to you. It was originally the name from the Ashikaga Clan for you.” 

“N-No, this kind of thing. Being a Yoshihi, I don’t understand the meaning of it.” 

“Well, what do you know. There are two monkeys and a beautiful woman who share the same name of ‘Sagara Yoshiharu’ now; it has become incomprehensible. Yoshiharu. Think of a suitable name for me. Right now. Don’t give me a name like I’m a useless newcomer. Give me a name that is familiar to the Oda Clan.” Yoshihi let out a laugh, “Fufu,” from her nose and ordered her younger brother. 

“You are right. Then I shall take the character ‘Ryo/?’ from Sagara Yoshiharu and ‘Na/?’ from Oda Nobuna, then take them together to ‘Hidenaga/??.’ That is how it is!” 

“Haa? Are you an idiot? Those two characters don’t match together as one!” 

“Areee? That’s funny. The name of Hideyoshi-jiisan’s younger brother should’ve been Hidenaga. At last, I have found a deputy general suitable for the Sagara Corps, but the name doesn’t match well…” 

“Even though you are a man from the future, how could you not use Japan’s language skillfully? You are pathetic. If you don’t have me, you are screwed.” 

“… An onee-chan is troublesome… An imouto is more comfortable.” 

“What did you say?” 

“It feels a lot like onee-sama’s name. It’s not good if onee-sama’s name is Yoshihi. No good! No good!” Tokuchiyo frantically made a fuss, “Do not read it as ‘Yoshiharu [????],’ it will make a mess! Because there is another way of reading it as ‘Yoshihi [???]’ as well, you should introduce yourself as ‘Yoshihi’ in place of ‘Yoshiharu,’ onee-sama,” and insisted so obstinately. 

“Muu. It’s much better than being called by a name which isn’t cute like ‘Hidenaga.’ Alright, I will go with that,” Yoshihi nodded. 

‘Sagara Yoshihi’ retired from her seat as the head of the Sagara Clan, changed her name from ‘Yoshiharu’ to ‘Yoshihi,’ and became the deputy general of Yoshiharu’s army. [This language is interesting as weed] 

After being placed under the guardianship of Yoshiharu and the Shimazu Clan, Tokuchiyo took the position of the 19th head of Higo’s Sagara Clan. She took the name ‘Sagara Yorisada’ [another historical name of one of the Sagara Clan’s daimyos].  But the vassal corps and people from Kuma still affectionately called this new head of the clan who had returned in triumph from Yatsushiro Mountain to Hitoyoshi Castle as ‘Tokuchiyo,’ and would still be called like that. 

It was supposed to be a difficult work, but Toshihisa had finished writing the written oath. The Shimazu family, Yoshihi, and Tokuchiyo immediately exchanged the written oath about the Sagara Clan’s birthright cession formally. 

“Yoshiharu-kun! I wish to see onee-sama sometime.” 

“Yes. Although Nobuna likes to make people work hard, but I will make her let Yoshihi return home occasionally. Please be relieved!” [You’re just Nobuna’s slave, Yoshiharu. Don’t expect anything, especially for another rival] 

“Thank you!” 

“Now, the unrest of the Sagara Clan has been settled orderly,” Yoshihisa opened her fan. 

“Because Tokuchiyo’s intention is more honest than Yoshihi, it is easier to trust her. This is the correct solution for the Shimazu Clan. We were able to sell favor to the Oda Clan since we have helped Yoshiharu’s ancestor,” Toshihisa nodded. 

“This woman slipped away as Sagara Yoshiharu’s elder sister. She completely has no credibility at all. S-Surely she intends to coax Sagara Yoshiharu by using her position as his elder sister? A s-s-sister and y-y-younger brother s-s-sleeping together is normal. O-o-on the contrary, b-b-bathing together is,” Yoshihiro, who got her knowledge about a younger brother distorted, blushed and coughed her throat. 

Iehisa; who had completely forgotten about that, after the battle, she had something to confess; was shaking in endurance. 

Using the chance that Yoshihiro was still covering her face with her both hands out of embarrassment, Iehisa jumped to Yoshiharu’s knees, sitting on them a “pop.” 

“Whoa, that scared me! What is it, Iehisa?” 

“Nyaa nyaa! Sagara. Have you forgotten your promise with me?” 

“Promise? Ah, yes, I remember. After the battle ends, you have something to say to me, was that it?” 

“Fufu. So you remember it. You are a good man, Sagara!” 

“I have already heard that.” 

“It’s serious, but it’s my feelings. Chuu~!” [Please remember that the period, question mark, and exclamation point are the Three Musketeers of Punctuation. Ending it with a tilde is awkward as fuck] 

“W-What?” 

“My Iehisa is kissing a man, aaaaaah-.” Yoshihiro fainted. 

“I’ve never expected for someone to suddenly make a love confession during a war council. Such extremity from the armed battle faction! I who think too much wouldn’t have any chance to compete!” Toshihisa trembled. 

“Go, Iehisa-chan! Coax Sagara Yoshiharu and take him to the Shimazu family! Iehisa is a true wicked woman to try to take the lover of the world’s ruler! Yoshiharu has a value of 100 million koku!” Yoshihisa cheered for her. 

Speaking of men, Tokuchiyo who had no experience of having a friend other than her male pet bear let out a scream, “Fueeee,” that was hard to comprehend. [Rishia-chan, go back to Itsuki!] 

… But of course, there was a princess general who was enraged by Iehisa for stealing a march, her hair raised up to the heavens. 

It was Yoshihi who had taken up a position next to Yoshiharu. 

“A-Are you an idiot, Shimazu Iehisa?! Doing such a selfish action to Yoshiharu without my permission as his onee-sama! Yoshiharu is Oda Nobuna’s lover!” 

“Hehe. Be it war or love, those who take the initiative win!” [A fuqing clever bastard. This is why Waterloo was a debacle] 

“Wha-Wha-Wha–” 

“Sagara Yoshihi. I don’t know whether Oda Nobuna will be worried or not. But you, who used the excuse of being Yoshiharu’s ancestor to become his elder sister, are no doubt my enemy.” 

“… U-U-U-U-U-Ua…” 

Yoshiharu saw it for the first time. The calm and serious Yoshihi was bewildered, “The face has been peeled off,” and her appearance went to a tearful face which was suitable for girls of her age. 

“O-O-O-Onee-sama, calm down! This is no good, no good at all!” 

“ I won’t permit this, Shimazu Iehisa! Your kiss! I will overwrite and cancel it!” 

“Onee-sama, you should not…” 

“Eh? Yoshihi? Please wait a moment! That’s bad… GYA!” [Imagine an innocent maiden getting thrust for her first night] 

“Yoshiharu, what’s up with that ‘gyaa?!’ Do you hate being kissed by me? You rude fellow!” 

Yoshihi who had lost her temper kissed Yoshiharu’s cheek. 

“Nyaa nyaa!” 

Iehisa screamed. 

“Wow, she really did it!” Yoshihisa let out a shout of joy. 

“Yoshiharu will disappear!” Toshihisa was greatly perplexed. 

“His women trouble has come out after such a long time. Everything has come to naught. Farewell, my master. I will never forget you,” Goemon who hid herself in the ceiling clasped her hands together for a prayer. 

Am I seriously going to suddenly disappear because of this absurd accident? This death like a miserable joke is unpleasant! Nobunaaaaa! 

“Eh? Oh no!” The moment Yoshihi’s mind recovered, the kiss was already finished. 

“I have no immunity towards love stories,” Yoshihiro was completely thrown to chaos. “One bear, two bears, three bears…” Along with Tokuchiyo who started to count bears for some reason. 

However. 

No matter how many bears Yoshihiro counted, Yoshiharu did not disappear. 

“What? Why haven’t you disappeared? That story that a man from the future like you would disappear if I make you marry Yoshihi was a thoughtless speech. My belief that a man from the future doesn’t exist is correct. Ha, ha, ha. But your plain face that looks alike with Hikaru Genji’s is strangely irritating. Moreover… My imoutou… Iehisa…” 

“Anyway, you are a liar,” Yoshihiro blushed, pinching Yoshiharu’s cheek. Yoshiharu who had almost fainted returned, ‘Eh,’ to sit. 

“Why? Why didn’t I disappear? Goemon in the ceiling. Please explain.” 

“Nin nin. I myself don’t understand at all. Let’s just say that more troubles have been added.” 

“Wonderful…” Yoshihi sighed in relief. 

“In other words, Yoshiharu. Even if I kiss you, the contradiction of infinite cycle will not appear.” 

“Ah! Onee-sama, you have just exchanged a written oath about stepping down from the seat of the Sagara Clan’s head, right? Because I wasn’t originally meant to be the head of the Sagara Clan, perhaps it has changed onee-sama’s fate. In other words, Yoshiharu is no longer the direct descendant of onee-sama since you aren’t the present head of the clan anymore. Yoshiharu has become my direct descendant because I am the present head of the Sagara Clan! Therefore, even if onee-sama kisses him, the contradiction won’t happen.” 

“What? Is that true, Tokuchiyo? Then I will try again. This time, it’s lips to lips.” 

“Y-Yoshihi? There isn’t any elder sister who kisses her younger brother on the lips! Oii, what are you doing?” 

“Be quiet! Japan was born through the union of the brother and sister gods Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto! There is no problem. Be grateful that I’ll give you my first kiss. Chuu. Oh, so you haven’t disappeared even if I do it like this.” 

“Uwoooooo, definitely this time! This time I will disappear…! Why haven’t I disappeared?” 

“Hooray, onee-sama! You have overcome fate! I am looking forward for Yoshiharu and onee-sama’s offspring!” 

“Humu. Even if he has a face like a monkey’s, because I am pretty, Tokuchiyo’s distant offspring will be unbearably cute. But this will be an indirect kiss with Tokuchiyo… Kapuchu.” 

“Eek~. Onee-sama!” 

“Nonono, wait a second. After all, this logic is ridiculous in various ways. It has more of an unpalatable feeling than the former logic.” 

“Nyaa?” Iehisa, who was wincing, heard Yoshiharu’s scream and noticed something sudden. 

“This woman! She has just done something outrageous under the confusion! She is unexpectedly evil-minded!” 

“Hoo? I haven’t done anything remotely despicable. Yoshiharu is a little embarrassed because he is still a boy, I am glad because he actually wants to be spoiled by his onee-sama.” 

“Nyaa nyaa nyaa… Using her position as the elder sister to cling around Sagara… A nastily troublesome love rival has appeared! Sagara Yoshihi, we will take your neck!” 

“Same to you, prepare yourself who have made me infuriated!” 

“Wait a second. In the case that it will became a fight with my cute Iehisa, then I, the Takegami Shimazu Yoshihiro, will naturally assist her imouto! In the first place, I could never permit Sagara Yoshiharu’s lips to be stolen in deceit! Is this the new life you have found?! To live as an unruly elder sister who seduces her younger brother?! What’s with you! This is cowardice towards a samurai’s honor!” 

“Ara. Shimazu Yoshihiro. Have you fallen in love with my younger brother too? This is laughable. Because Yoshiharu prefers a noble and graceful maiden like me rather than a big-breasted girl like you whose merits are only in fighting and martial arts. It’s better if you give up early.” 

“I-I-I-I am n-n-n-never being like t-t-t-that, no way!” 

“Nyaa! Yoshihiro-neechan has become an enemy?” 

“Iehisa, don’t get ensnared by this woman’s plan!” 

“This is bad, this is bad. If I bring Yoshihi to Honshu and meet Nobuna. It will turn into a quarrel between mother-in-law and Nobuna…” Yoshiharu felt more dead than alive. 

During the intense fight between a mother-in-law and a daughter-in-law that had broken out, Yoshihisa and Toshihisa nodded. 

“There is a rumor that Sagara Yoshiharu gathered up a lot of cute girls as his ‘younger sisters’ in his hands because Oda Nobuna would come to kill him if he has an affair with other maidens.” 

“It seems to be true. The word ‘elder sister’ seems to be a blind spot, onee-sama.” 

I swear to Buddha-sama, I haven’t done such a thing to Oda Nobuna! Yoshiharu thought so.