Oda Nobuna no Yabou - Volume 2 - Chapter 1

Chapter 1: Nobuna being asked for marriage! 

The era is Sengoku. The location is the province of Owari, in the town surrounding Kiyosu castle. 

The princess ruling over the province of Owari, Oda Nobuna, was called a fool and laughed at by the world. 

But this foolish way of hers, was it in order to catch the enemy off guard, or was she some genius tragically misunderstood by the current era? People began to question after the renowned Battle of Okehazama, in which Imagawa Yoshimoto, who was called [Tokaido's No. 1], personally led her unparalleled attack with an army 10 times larger than Oda Nobuna's. 

In the end, Imagawa was defeated under the lead of Shibata Katsuie and Nobuna's ministers. The one who defeated the confident Imagawa Yoshimoto was no other than Owari's stupid princess Oda Nobuna. 

Now, as if Oda Nobuna is planning something, she is being very mean. After the battle of Okehazama, the living conditions of Oda's ministers had not improved at all. Sagara Yoshiharu, a modern Japanese high school student who mysteriously appeared in this dangerous sengoku era and had discovered Imagawa's base, thus contributing greatly to the victory of that battle, is now still leading the miserable life of one vege soup per meal. 

Currently, it is the middle of summer. 

Even though it was barely dawn, Yoshiharu was lying wide awake on his threadbare futon, soaked with his nighttime sweat. 

Once full of confidence to sleep through anything, Sagara who is at least planning to lie in bed some more, can only admit defeat. His back is full of sweat, and it is somehow warm too. So, he unwillingly opened his eyes while muttering "So hot, don't they have Air Conditioning here?” 

“Fu, fu fu” 

Upon opening his eyes, one can see his ninja subordinate, Hachisuka Goemon hugging the pillar while sleeping on the roof's beam. Goemon might be a loli ninja, but she leads the fierce Kawanamishuu. Besides that, she has the habit of biting her tongue after 30 syllables. 

No matter what, she is still Sagara's subordinate. But no matter how much he tries to persuades her to sleep on the tatami, she refuses and says that the roof is enough for her. It's worrying the she does not listen to him, but even when she agreed to come down, she planned to bury herself using her ninja skills instead. 

In the end, Sagara gave up persuading her and let her sleep on the roof, but... 

Seeing her sleeping posture, Sagara becomes worried that she might fall down from the roof. But there is a culprit more troublesome who disturbs Sagara's slumber. After the Battle of Okehazama, the reward Nobuna gave Sagara was the little girl, Nene. Though only 8 years old, she already has a sharp tongue. 

Because of Sagara's wish to be affectionate with a pretty girl, Nene was given to him as a god-sister. Nene even swore that she will shoulder the responsibility of not letting Sagara touch any girls. 

“Nobuna you bastard, how much do you hate me?" Sagara often grumbled. In reply, Nene said "I will definitely change Onii-sama's habit of chasing after girls, and follow him around all the time." 

Noticing the difference between modern Japan and the sengoku era, Sagara initially planned Since I'm living alone, I should get some girls to have fun, but the current situation makes any possible chance hopeless. Though, when she is sleeping, she is still very cute. 

“...I finally know why it's so hot. Nene, don't stick so close to my back.” Children's body temperatures are really high. During Sagara's sleep, Nene wrapped her hands around his neck and hugged his back while still half asleep. Because of this, Sagara's temperature had also risen more than 100 percent. 

“......fu, fu fu. Onii-sama, don't go chasing girls around...” Even in sleep, she is still blocking Sagara's only interest. 

“Oi, its hot, let go.” 

“Fu, fu, fu” 

“I.....I can't get out.” 

And Sagara's back is already very wet. 

“Is it sweat? But why is it a bit warm?” 

No matter how Nene sticks to me, I can't possibly have that much sweat. 

.... 

Sagara noticed. 

Ah? 

Don't tell me, this... 

isn't.....sweat?! 

No... 

“Oi, Nene, did you wet your bed? And you even urinated on my back?!” 

"Hmmm?" 

The one sticking to Sagara's back, Nene, finally opened her eyes. 

“...... Uuuuuu.. Eh?...” 

While still drowsy, she used her little hand to rub her eyes. 

“Stop uuuuu-ing! Did you mistake my back with the toilet? Oioi, why is it still coming?” 

“......Uuuuu....” 

“Listen, Nene, you are already 8 years old. It's time for you to change your habit of wetting beds. It would be strange if you did not wet your bed after shouting 'So hot, so hot' and drinking so much water before you slept last night! As your brother, I will have to teach you properly today!” 

“....uuuu... uuuu” 

“Eh? What word starts with uuu?" Sagara tilted his head, not understanding. 

“.....UuuuuuAhhhhhhhh~~” Nene started crying! 

The soundwaves start hitting Sagara's eardrum! 

“.....UuuuuuWahhhhhhhh~~” 

“Wa...What? What is this sound-wave weapon?!” 

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh~~” 

“Ahhh, Nene, I'm wrong! Sorry! I've said too much!” 

“....how can I sleep with this noise, Sagara-shi." Goemon stared at Sagara while opening her eyes. 

Rumors say that since Ninjas need no sleep for a few days and nights, they sleep like a corpse when they are resting. Once they decided to sleep, before their sleeping time is up, they won't wake up even if you fire a cannon beside their bed or knock the gong. 

As the current loli ninja covered her ears and screamed "Noisy!" it can be seen that Nene's cries' decibel is already very horrible. 

“Uwahhhh~Onii-sama is mad!!” 

“I'm wrong! Nene, I beg you not to cry anymore. Come come, wipe your nose! If your face is full of snot, won't the reputation of the number one small beauty of Owari go down!?” 

“Reputation... go down....? Uwahhhhhhh~” 

“Uhhh~! How can you calm down!?” 

“A slash at the neck using this ninja's dagger will fix this” 

“She will die if you do that! Ahh, more importantly, I should take my futon and dry it outside” 

“Ah, you wanna run from this, Sagara-shi?” 

“I leave the rest to you, Goemon!” 

“I I I I I'm not used to handling kids! Shaghara(Sagara)-shi is so bad!” 

Goemon bit her tongue! - Though this is not the time to play the straight man [1] . 

Not wasting a single second, I have to run away from the area of Nene's sound-wave attack. 

Free~dom! 

Sagara hastily ran to the courtyard with the futon, but his neighour Inuchiyo was already standing there. 

“......Day after day, so noisy......” 

Wearing pajamas and holding her usual bamboo spear, her attire is so messy that one can almost see her chest area. 

Though her breasts are still like a small flower bud waiting to bloom, the leader of the Maeda clan, Maeda Inuchiyo is already a beautiful young girl. Honestly, Inuchiyo is still young, but if she went out to Japan's Akihabara like this, the otakus would definitely be so happy that they would dance on the spot. 

Sagara couldn't help but stare at Inuchiyo; his consciousness took a moment to fully return. 

“Oi, Inuchiyo? What's with your attire! Wear your clothes properly!” 

“......Shirking responsibility. You are the one who did this.” 

“Huh? What?” 

Inuchiyo is sleepwalking! And coincidentally, because she was awaken halfway during her sleep, her brain is still left with fragments of Sagara lusting over her. From the looks of it, her anger meter seems to be at the MAX! 

“......Properly......take responsibility.” 

The bamboo spear in her hands coldly stab towards Sagara. 

“Inuchiyo-san?! Please wake up!!!” 

Dodging left and right, Sagara thinks to himself, 

Everyone on the Oda family is a handful. 

After such a noisy morning, Sagara and Inuchiyo head to Aoshuu. 

Last night, Nobuna ordered the both of them to buy some delicious Uiroumochi, Hatcho Miso and thick soy sauce as there will be a guest coming today. An Owari specialty, the Uiroumochi is used to reward Nobuna's brother Nobukatsu and her ministers. It isn't too sweet upon eating, and the aftertaste is fresh, so Sagara soon developed quite a liking to it too. 

But.... 

“Hatcho Miso and thick soy sauce......huh?” 

Walking together with Inuchiyo on the streets of Aoshuu, Sagara starts muttering to himself. Beside him, while happily eating tea-flavored Uiroumochi, Inuchiyo asked, "Both of them are delicious. Sagara, you don't like them?” 

“It's not that I don't like them; the flavour is just too thick.” 

Hatcho Miso is the specialty of Mikawa's Okazaki Hatcho Village. From the outside, its red in colour. As for the taste, it's not as sweet compared to Sagara's favourite rice miso, and its rather bitter at the start. 

But for reasons unknown, the people of Owari love this flavour. Shibata Katsuie will even gluttonously put this hatcho miso on top of her shaved ice during summer, eating it in high spirits. Once Sagara carelessly but honestly said “Wa, miso-flavoured shaved ice sounds disgusting.” In the end, Katsuie almost broke his back in anger. 

As for the Soy sauce, it is an extremely heavily flavoured sauce that has gained much popularity in Owari nowadays. Sometimes, Sagara will dip a bit of it while eating sashimi, but Katsuie will just put this on top of her shaved ice and etc etc. 

In conclusion, 70% of the dining tables in Owari will have hatcho miso, and the rest of them will have soy sauce. While living in Aoshuu, Sagara often thought Why do all of them like such a thick flavour? helplessly. But from the situation, it seems that they have not yet discovered a way to lighten the sauces during this era. 

“I recommend this shop. It's fresh and cheap, and the flavour is thick too.” 

Inuchiyo brings Sagara to a shop called Sukagi-ya. (???) 

Inside the shop is full of the different types of miso and sauces, but outside, there is a bunch of snacks and steaming hot noodles. Add this to the current trend, this shop “Drinking tea” has the additional use as a teashop, and it's actually quite a unique shop. 

“It's good if its fresh and cheap, but isn't the flavour a bit too thick? I still think lighter...” 

“Shut up and buy it." Sagara's face was pinched and was dragged over. 

Though her body is small, Inuchiyo has strong hands. 

“I know I know.....! But, I seem to have heard of this shop before.” 

“There's a lot of Sukagi-yas around in Owari. All the products are cheap and fresh, and the flavour is thick too, it has become a gathering place for young girls.” 

“I get it, using the words of my era, this seems like a hang out for high school girls.” 

Inuchiyo stared intently at the shopkeeper, all the while maintaining a ..........silence. Eventually the shopkeeper broke down crying and they got a good price. Because of this, after buying the stuff they wanted they still had a bit of money left. 

“Since there is still time, why don't we get some Uiroumochi before going back?” 

“.......Sagara wants to flirt with girls.” 

“Ok, ok. White, black, tea, red bean, sakura; I will treat you to all 5 colours of Uiroumochi!” 

“....Uhhh, I can't reject....” 

All 5 flavours of Uiroumochi at one time! Inuchiyo let out a pant “ha ha” not unlike a dog while thinking of it breathlessly. 

The two of them sat at a corner of the teashop, eating Uiroumochi and looking at the people walking through the streets. After Nobuna defeated the enemy of the North, Imagawa Yoshimoto, the city of Aoshuu let out a breath of relief, and is beginning to be bustling again. Since the nemesis of Owari, Imagawa, is gone, the expressions of the pedestrians seem to be more relaxed. 

As expected, peace seems to be the most important thing in the sengoku era, Sagara realized. If Nobuna is able to unite the world, the war-ridden Japan will also stop their fights and the whole country can be as peaceful as this city. 

“Not bad, not bad. There is quite a lot of young and energetic girls.” 

“…Sagara, there is one too, at the side.” 

“Eh? Inuchiyo can be considered energetic too?” 

“…Can be.... I think.” 

“Oh? That bunch of people is...” 

From where Sagara is pointing, one can see a bunch of warriors. The black hair guy sitting on the horse should be the swordsman, and those young warriors surrounding him should be his men. 

Though the looks of his men had already captured the attention of the city girls, one can see that the swordsman's look far surpassed that of his men. Sorrowful eyes, long eyelashes, fair skin, these features bring a sense of dignity. Hikaru Genji [2] must have been like this when he was young too. 

The city's girls have already surrounded the group, all the while shrieking with delight. Because of this, Sagara's existence hasn't been noticed at all. 

Well, even if he was noticed, they will say “Hey, there's a monkey!” or “Nobuna-sama's monkey escaped to the streets” or “Don't get seduced by the Uiroumochi!” and raise a small ruckus at best. 

“Che, that guy who is riding on the white horse seems to have the looks of a gigolo. Even as a guy, I thinks that his looks are quite good.” 

“…Pond Noodles [3] . The noodles here are flat.” 

“He seems to be clever too, he should be much more popular than Nobukatsu. Damn, this admiration of mine pisses me off.” 

“…flat noodles.” 

But, the flags carried by this group of warriors have not been seen in Owari before. 

Three flower petals on three tortoise shells. 

Sagara and Inuchiyo listen hard, eavesdropping on the conversation of that gigolo swordsman and his men. 

“Master, I heard that the idiotic princess of Owari often walks the streets with a monkey face." 

“If she saw this cute face of master, she might discover her girly side.” 

Such cold conversation, this young swordsman seems to have no interest in Nobuna as a man. 

“At the charm of master, the monkeys of Owari will only submit to us.” 

“To think that you have to marry such an idiotic princess, master is so pitiful.” 

“Political marriages are a common thing in this sengoku era, there is no need to let all the girls love you.” 

“Master, all the girls will cry if they know you are doing this. To abandon so many girls, there might be some who might even consider suicide." 

“Girls who think they can do anything in this sengoku era are pathetic, they are all only chess pieces.” 

"Damn! Those people really pisses me off!" Sagara cannot help but scold those people. 

“It's ok if you treat Nobuna like a monkey, but I can't forgive anyone who treats girls as playthings! It has nothing to do with treating Nobuna like an idiot!” 

Squinting her eyes while looking at the flag of these people who walk past, Inuchiyo lowered her voice and said "This pattern, three flower petals on 3 tortoise shells, they are not part of Nobuna's army." 

“Don't tell me they are the guests that Nobuna is entertaining? Arrogant people like this? “ 

“…I don't think so. Since we are buying so much hatcho miso, the one who is coming should be the bespectacled tanuki.” 

“Bespectacled tanuki?” 

The bespectacled tanuki is referring to Mikawa, Okazaki city's Motoyasu Matsudaira. Her purpose is to sign a peace treaty with Nobuna. Motoyasu Matsudaira, the one who will eventually change her name to Tokugawa Ieyasu. A tragic princess daimyo who had to bury her ambitions deep inside her heart, her province is trapped right in the middle by Owari's Oda clan and Imagawa Yoshimoto. 

When she was young, she was once kidnapped by the Imagawa clan as a hostage, and was later taken to Owari by Oda Nobuhide, Nobuna's father. In the end, she was used as a trading chip and sold back to Imagawa. Her early tragic life can be described as a ball being kicked around. Because of the battle of Okehazama, the once lackey of Imagawa Yoshimoto, who received news that Imagawa Yoshimoto has been defeated, hastily retreated her army to Okazaki city and proclaimed independence from Imagawa. 

Because of this, Imagawa's army which was defeated right in the middle of Owari and Mikawa and unable to retreat was dispersed away. Imagawa who has lost both the head of the family and her army, was destroyed by Takeda Shingen soon after. 

Motoyasu always wears tanuki ears and tail accessories due to the belief that her family worship tanukis as a tradition, but from the looks of it, one can criticize that her characteristic can be totally seen just by her attire. Oh and by the way, she is also very near-sighted, and always wears spectacles imported from overseas. What a messed up princess daimyo. 

Noon, at Aoshuu's grand hall sat Owari's master Oda Nobuna, Mikawa's Motoyasu Matsudaira, Maeda Inuchiyo and Sagara Yoshiharu. After defeating Imagawa Yoshimoto, Oda Nobuna seemed to be in a very good mood, and appeared stylishly with her yukata half opened, her flask strapped at her waist and an Arquebus leaning against her shoulder. 

After meeting with Saitou Dousan, it had been a long time since Sagara had seen her in her beautiful princess look, so he couldn't help but feel down. “Whatever looks No....Nobuna may have has no....nothing to do with it at all.” This kind of tsundere line Sagara can only bury deep in his heart. 

Acting like she did not see anything, Nobuna pats Motoyasu on the shoulder and said “it's been quite some time, Takechiyo!” Motoyasu Matsudaira whose childhood name is "Takechiyo" has been buddies with Nobuna since they were children. 

Nobuna, who is in a very good mood, greets Motoyasu while eating her specially made chicken wing. 

Just to mention, Nobuna was once not satisfied with the size of her chicken wing, so she ordered a change to the chicken variety. Now the chicken wing in her hands is as big as that of a turkey. “Rather than calling it a chicken wing, I will call it a cow's hoof instead.” Sagara can't help but feel alarmed. 

If Nobuna's advisor Niwa Nagahide were around, she would definitely say "Wear proper attire when signing a peace treaty. This kind of sloppy attire is too easygoing, 8 points." 

“Yeah~Hehe~ It's been a while, Kichi-nee-san~” 

While eating Uiroumochi smeothered with hatcho miso, Motoyasu smiles and lowers her head to Nobuna. But for some reason, her voice seems to be trembling a bit, and the squirrel accessories on top of her head are vibrating too. Sagara's eyes detected this kind of small movement from her. 

"Inuchiyo, why is Motoyasu trembling like that?" 

“…When the bespectacled Tanuki was imprisoned in Owari, she was bullied *cough* *cough* loved everyday by the young Nobuna-sama“ 

"Last time, whenever Nobuna-sama caught the bespectacled tanuki, she would say 'Nowhere to run, tanuki demon!! I will use you for teppanyaki!' and then she would tie the bespectacled tanuki on top of the tree and raise a fire beneath her." While saying that, Inuchiyo's expression start to show a little bit of fear mix into it. 

“So messed up, that would become a big issue if she did it in my world “ 

“Giving animal names to her beloved subordinates, this is the way Nobuna-sama shows her love.” Inuchiyo muttered. 

“So in conclusion, after being captured by Oda, Motoyasu became Nobuna's lackey. What a miserable and pitiful childhood.” 

“…Most likely her body still remembers the horror of that time. So, do not offend our master.” 

Sagara pitied Motoyasu from the bottom of his heart. 

“Takechiyo, let me introduce you to my trusted aide and my monkey. This cute little girl over there that looks like a puppy is Maeda Inuchiyo. The one who looks disgusting, has a perverted face, has no manners and is always full of himself is a monkey who calls himself [Sagara Yoshiharu]. Though his brain seems to be banged up and he always thinks of himself as a human, don't be shy and call him Saru!” 

“Really? I'm Matsudaira Motoyasu. Childhood name Takechiyo. Please take care of me.” 

Just for an instant, Motoyasu's eyes seem to be flickering, like she had something to hide. Sagara did not really mind it, and lowers his head after saying hello. 

After appearing in the sengoku era from modern Japan, Sagara was right in the middle of the battle between Oda and Imagawa's armies. During that time, he was almost beheaded by Motoyasu under Imagawa Yoshimoto's orders. But Sagara during that time was only a vagrant; after so long, Motoyasu seems to have forgotten about it. It might also have been that Motoyasu noticed this point, but as to not let the atmosphere become awkward, she might have pretended to forget about it. 

After him, Inuchiyo lightly lowered her head too. 

"…Maeda, Inuchiyo.” 

“I still remember about Inuchiyo-san. Every time I was tied up by Kichi-nee-san and grilled, you were always the one who kicked me to the river and saved my life.” 

Since you are saving her, why can't you use a more normal method? Sagara thinks. 

“Due to Kichi-nee-san, Mikawa is finally independent. From here on, I would like to form an alliance with Owari, and have an everlasting friendship with Kichi-nee-san. ~Actually I was too afraid to say no~" 

Even though it's independent now, Mikawa cannot change the fact that she is a small country. And the east side of Mikawa resides the now mighty Takeda Shingen forces. Takeda Shingen and Uesugi Kenshin, both of them can be called the strongest generals in sengoku era. 

There wasn't anyone with guts and ability to challenge those strong knights of Takeda, other than the mighty Uesugi Kenshin. Obviously, to Takeda Shingen, Mikawa's Matsudaira Motoyasu is at most Imagawa's lackey. It's not a problem if they submit to the Takeda's, but there is absolutely no chance of an equal alliance. That's why from Motoyasu's point of view, other then forming an alliance with Nobuna there is no way to protect Mikawa's independence and safety. 

Once considering Nobuna's ambition to conquer the world, after forming an alliance with Mikawa, she can use it as a shield against Takeda. After conquering Mino, she can continue westward all the way to Kyo. But Mino is also not just any other province, that's why Nobuna has no more energy to guard against the east side. 

And, 

With Mikawa as an ally, the Owari people's favourite Hatcho Miso will also be very cheap and very easy to get. Since both of them are childhood friends, their relationship isn't too bad, plus both of them are now daimyos; their situations are actually quite similar. 

Of course, in the end, both of them are still rulers of different states. There will definitely be places where they can't agree together. 

“Takechiyo, it's ok for me to give you the whole of Mikawa. But can you give me the village of hatcho?” 

“Ki....Kichi-nee-san, if we don't have hatcho miso, then Mikawa's specialty, Hatcho Miso will be gone. Mikawa's finance is relying on it now!” 

“That's why you should just give it to me.” 

“Exactly how can one come to such a conclusion? This brat Nobuna is so thick-skinned." Sagara whispers to Inuchiyo's ears. 

“Ooooooonly this, only hatcho miso is not negotiable! If we don't have hatcho miso, my ministers will rebel!” 

“...…Ok, I understand. But, for Owari's merchants to be able to buy cheap hatcho miso, from now onward there will be no hatcho miso tax between Owari and Mikawa, not one cent!” 

Hatcho miso's tax is waived, from now on Owari can get even cheaper hatcho miso. 

“Ok, if Kichi-nee-san can give up on hatcho village.” 

This negotiation seems very hooligan-like, but as a result, Hatcho Miso will be cheaper! 

Nobuna seems very satisfied about the end result. No matter what, the people of Owari's love for hatcho miso has almost reached a crazy level, you can see that from Katsuie. With this, the armies' ration expenses will also be reduced. 

And hence.... 

Mikawa and Owari redrew their boundary lines, the east side will be given to Motoyasu and the west side to Nobuna, the alliance was formed immediately. While happily munching away on her huge chicken wing, she smiled and said “It's finally time.” 

Nobuna's eyes glittered, and shouted proudly “Oi, didn't you hear what I said, idiotic monkey? You can leave the small stuff to Inuchiyo; right now we are to march towards Mino, and then towards Kyo! With this, I can finally take one step towards my ambition of world conquest.” 

No matter how brightly you smile at me, I still feel that you aren't cute at all! Sagara can't help but say it in his heart. 

“Wait wait, there isn't any tanuki in the story of 'Momotaro banishing demons'. There should only be dog, monkey and pheasant shouldn't there?” 

“Shut up, aren't pheasants and tanukis the same?” 

Nobuna closed her small pink lips, and stared at Sagara. 

“This kind of grumbly princess-sama is also cute.” But Sagara rejected Inuchiyo's comment. 

Sagara said before, Nobuna is someone with the self centered mindset My stuff is mine, and my subordinate's stuff is also mine. 

“By the way, why are you as a minister always giving me this kind of attitude? Why are you always spoiling my mood?” 

“You dare to even ask? Give me a justifiable reward. Who do you think is the main contributor towards the victory at Okehazama? Hurry and give me Owari's number one beauty!” 

“Huh? The number one beauty is right in front of you. For what reason and duty must I introduce you to another family's daughter?” 

“Shut up. Only that face of yours is OK! My criteria of a beauty are very strict. Looks alone can't do anything, someone with no inner beauty is just fail!” 

“Ara, I don't just have a pretty face; when I strip its also quite spectacular. If you don't believe, why don't you just take a look yourself?” 

Part of her beautiful chest was revealed a little bit for just an instant, though it's just a little bit. 

*Cough* *Cough* *Cough* Sagara can't help but be alarmed at such a sudden movement. 

Obviously she won't really take off her bra, and this time Nobuna points at Sagara and laughs uncontrollably. “Hahahahaha! You idiot, just a small joke and your face is all red! You can't really expect me to strip for you to see! Big idiot! So stupid that I'm thinking of beheading you! Ahahahaha!” 

“Sh...Sh...Shut up! You are not little anymore! Stop these kinds of dangerous jokes. Don't you feel embarrassed?!” 

“Sure, if my naked body is shown to others, of course I would be embarrassed. But what is so embarrassing about showing my body to a monkey? In the end it's another species.” 

“Ah, is that so, then show it to me then! Take off your bra right now! And now that I think about it, why does someone in the sengoku era wear such a bra-like cloth? Isn't it strange?” 

“Oioioioi, wait, what are you trying to do! You id...id...idiotic monkey, what's with your fingers!? Know your place!” 

“Shut up!! If not for your instructions, Nene would not be around me 24 hours of the day keeping me from finding a girlfriend! You've made me desperate already!!” 

“Sto-Stop! What? Have you really turned into a monkey!?” 

“Yeah, that's right! I'm a monkey! Because I've not been near girls for too long, I have turned into a monkey!" *Monkey noises* 

“Ahhhh!? Inuchiyo!!” 

“…Sagara, control yourself.” 

*Pinch* 

Not sure if it's too embarrassing, or because of the beautiful chest of Nobuna making him lose control, but Sagara actually attacked his own master. But due to Inuchiyo's pinch to his cheeks, and Sagara's *OUCH!!!!!!!*, Sagara finally returned to his senses. 

After returning to his senses, all Sagara could see is Nobuna boiling with anger kicking his head using all her strength. 

“You....this.....idiotic.....monkey~!! I will definitely finish you off today, see if you still dare to offend your superiors!” 

“Wait.......Wait! Don't raise your legs too high, I can see everything!” 

“Ah~! Where are you looking at, you idiotic monkey, haven't you learned your lesson! You pervert, you eromaniac monkey!” 

“Didn't I tell you to stop!?” 

The alliance meeting was temporarily thrown aside, and the hall starts the play of the battle between the master and her servant. Motoyasu is totally being thrown aside. 

“Er, you two, don't tell me it's like this all along?" She asked Inuchiyo timidly. 

“....…yes. Not even the gods can stop this quarrel, a specialty of Aoshuu.” 

“Such a remarkable display of courage, Saru-kun. To offend Kichi-nee-san to that degree, and still have his head on.” 

“…just playing only. Good relationship.” 

“I can't belittle this man. ~Sagara Yoshiharu~” 

Matsudaira Motoyasu deeply engraves Sagara Yoshiharu into her head. 

Just when the alliance between these two childhood friends (actually, it's more of a master and her pet tanuki relationship) is going on smoothly, someone unexpected arrived at the gates of Aoshuu. 

Asking who the hell he is, it's actually the gentleman who attracts all the girls with his stylish but disgusting face. To Nobuna, this kind of uninvited guest is actually quite rare. The aides hastily run in and report the name of the guest. 

“Invite him in immediately.” 

Nobuna's big eyes glittered, and her heart hammered in excitement. 

Her excitement is so great that Nobuna even forget about the other three people in the hall. Inuchiyo, Sagara and Motoyasu retreat to a corner to allow the new guest to come in. 

After a while, this uninvited guest appears in the great hall. 

In this sengoku world, Sagara's position can be considered quite high already, but this person before him is even higher. With long and smooth black hair, long eyelashes not losing to a girl, and snow white skin, this young warrior is handsome to a somewhat mysterious degree. 

With a pretty face that makes people easily mistaken him for a real beauty, this handsome man even had Motoyasu and Inuchiyo, this pair of animals letting out “Oh oh” cheers. 

But, Sagara can never forget how this man and his subordinates treated Nobuna with such an easy attitude. 

“Who are you?” 

The urge to ask uncontrollably blurt out. 

“This is too rude of me. My name is Asai Nagamasa, and I traveled all the way from Odani Castle.“ 

Using a soft tone, the black hair swordsman introduced himself gracefully. 

“I wanted to have a meeting with Oda Nobuna-sama, and it is for this reason I anonymously come to Owari and visited Aoshuu. Please do forgive my intrusion.” 

With a dignified look and beautiful actions, no doubt he is a daimyo from Kinai. It is as if he wanted to portray himself as a handsome prince with his graceful gestures, not knowing why, Sagara felt a bit anxious. 

“Damn....This kind of confident attitude. It's like he is showing his status to others purposely.” 

“Gosh, be silent, monkey. Asai Nagamasa isn't a daimyo who just controls Kitaomi, he is also someone who I want to include in my alliance in the future." 

“Oh, so that's it.... huh?” 

Asai Nagamasa. 

According to Sagara's sengoku game knowledge, Asai Nagamasa controls the region of kansai(The northen part of Omi), in other words, a big province. Sagara remembered that the reason Oda Nobunaga is able to advance towards Kyo after obtaining Mino is precisely because of the alliance with Asai Nagamasa. The need to do that is because Kansai is a region that Nobuna has to pass when advancing from Mino to Kyo. 

But, Sagara, after using all his brain juice to remember (Asai Nagamasa, isn't he the one that Oda Nobunaga killed in the end?) starts to be more and more suspicious towards this gigolo swordsman who is smiling so confidently in front of him. 

It's just a coincidence, but at the town's teashop, Nagamasa's opinion on Nobuna is like this 

“Girls who think they can do anything in this sengoku era are pathetic; they are all mere chess pieces .” 

The dignified gentlemen right in front of him was able to say such a thing; if not for Sagara listening to it on the spot, there is no way he could believe it. 

Basically, this guy in front has other plans in his heart. Compared to Motoyasu who is like a tanuki but respects Nobuna from her heart, this guy is just using Nobuna as a stepping stone. 

From this train of thought, it's better not to let Nobuna have too many dealings with this guy. Sagara thinks to himself. Half of it was actually worrying for Nobuna, the other is because of some unknown anger at Nagamasa. 

“Why are you in such a daze, idiotic monkey? Because of this, we can attack Mino peacefully now. At least show that you are happy a bit.” 

“I see. Omi and Mino are countries linked together, you mean the final pheasant from the banish of Mino's demons has also appeared too?” 

“Yes, that's what I mean.” 

“Nobuna-sama, I'm not a pheasant.” Asai Nagamasa said lightly with a hint of sourness. 

After that, while pressing his hand to his chest and with a gentle tone, he exclaims, 

“My childhood name is Saruyashamaru. If Nobuna likes it, you can feel free to call me Saru(monkey)” 

Sagara stood up in rage, and protested to Asai Nagamasa. 

“Wait just a minute! Your character overlaps mine! I'm the monkey!” 

Even though every time Nobuna called him Monkey he always argued back 'I'm a human!', once there is an impostor, Sagara is now emphasizing that he is the monkey. 

“Such an interesting man. I did not use any Rosewood [4] . The perfume on my body today is sandalwood.” 

“Ah, Nagamasa-sama, please do not mind this active monkey. If you follow in his steps, you will become stupid too.” 

“I understand.” 

“What does sandal wood have to do with anything? This bastard pisses me off.” Sagara stare at him fiercely. 

But Nagamasa just laughs, turn his head away from Sagara and did not care about him anymore. 

“So, what brings you here today? Since you are here in Aoshuu personally, I guess it must be something important?” 

“Exactly. Since currently, there is no more threat from Imagawa Yoshimoto, it is already pretty well known Nobuna is getting ready to attack your god-father Saitou Dousan's Gifu Castle." 

“Of course.” 

“After that, you will be proceeding to the capital, I suppose?” 

“Correct, after capturing Mino, I will go to the capital, and obtain the power to rule Japan. I have no wish to hide my ambitions now that I have come so far.” 

Nagamasa laughs lightly. 

Don't tell me this bastard even farts gracefully? Sagara is getting more and more pissed off, thinking how good it will be if I can kill him just through my stare. 

“This man is currently releasing his charm towards Nobuna-sama." Inuchiyo muttered. 

“Such a brave princess. Because of this, it must be fate that I who control Kitaomi should form an alliance with you.” 

“Ara, I might just attack Omi instead, you know?” 

“Not counting the Sasaki clan, we the Asai clan possess the fortress Odani castle, my father Hisamasa who has just given me the daimyo position is still alive, my ministers are united and my armies strong. If Nobuna-sama really decides to be our enemy, I'm afraid your plan of going to the capitol might be delayed. And, if I changed my mind and seek an alliance with Mino, Saitou Yoshitatsu, no one will know the odds of Nobuna-sama obtaining Mino. As such, I think Nobuna-sama should accept this offer of alliance." 

“Hehehe.” Nobuna smiled. 

The smart Nobuna often likes people who are as smart as her, because that will get rid of lots of explaining time and effort. 

“Like what you said, that's what I planned too. The Asai clan and the southern Sasaki clan has been at loggerheads for very long, and I remember you had been captured by the Sasaki clan while you were young before. As part of the alliance, I believe you will need my strength to defeat them?” 

“Yes, absolutely correct. That's why I have visited Aoshuu personally.” 

“Damn, why do the two of them seem to talk so happily? I don't know why, but it just pisses me off.” Sagara grumbles. 

“I see. Nagamasa, you being here specifically, it seems like you are agree-able to this alliance too?” 

“Actually my father, Hisamasa preferred to maintain good relationship with our old time allies, the Asakura clan. But, my father lacks the guts to face the Sasaki clan, the enemy who has snatched away Omi from us.” 

“Hmmm, Nagamasa-sama seems to have a bad father.” 

“As the previous daimyo, Asai Hisamasa has always been the aide of the Sasaki clan. After being a hostage for years under the Sasaki clan and inheriting the daimyo title, they have relied on their own strength and broke away from the Sasaki clan and declared independence.” Inuchiyo explained this to Sagara who did not know of the truth. 

“And the current head is me, Saruyashamaru. As someone ambitious, it does not suit me to do nothing of value in my youth. Rather then currying favor with the old famous houses, I should fight along with ambitious heroes, that's what I think.” 

“So as to say, you are willing to lend me a hand in conquering the world? Just like Takechiyo over there?” 

Nagamasa blinked and said “Petty lies won't work towards you, so I will just say it straight: I do not want to help with your ambitions.” 

“Oh, so what do you mean?” 

“Obtaining the world with you, that's my motive in coming here.” 

“Isn't it the same?” 

“No. What i'm saying is, we will aim for the world 'Together'. Nobuna-sama, please marry me!” 

“Oh!!!!!” 

Nobuna and Sagara almost immediately spit the tea in their mouths on each other. Even the color on the face of Nobuna shows that she is in confusion. Being proposed to, this is the first time in her life. 

Meaning to stand up, but thinking if that's a bit too rude, Nobuna sat down quietly and put her hand into her yukata's sleeve, hiding her bra from sight. 

“Ma...Ma...Ma...Ma...Ma...Marry you? So as to say, this is a proposal?” 

“Yes, that's it. Let us become the representative of beautiful couple from Owari and Omi. Add that to both our ambition to conquer the world, I dare say there is no other more suitable couple then us in the world. “ 

“Su...Su...Su...Suddenly saying th...th...th...this type of thing, I...I...I will be troubled!” 

Stealing a glance at Sagara's reaction who is letting out a howl of lament, Nobuna traces circles on the tatami mat. As for Inuchiyo and Motoyasu, there were whispers of “...This is bad...” “Gave me quite a scare”. 

“So...So...So...So as to say, you are attracted by...by...by...by me?” 

“No, attraction is but a commoner's emotion. I'm the head of the Asai clan, and you are the head of the Oda clan. As both of us are carrying a huge responsibility, throwing away our personal feelings and getting into a political marriage is an obvious action.” 

Soft but cold words. The ladies's man in front of his eyes are playing around with the feelings of girls, Sagara trembled with anger. 

“I...I...I...I... Er... political marriage is not......” 

“This is such a surprising thing. I thought that Nobuna-sama will definitely understand, both of us are no longer kids.” 

“I, will at least want to choose my own husband! I should decide it myself! I want to marry the guy I love! This is a dream I have had since I was young!” 

“Oh, from your words, don't tell me you have someone you already fancy?” 

To someone already in such a state of confusion, Nagamasa seems to be used to this kind of situation, his tone is still calm and confident. 

“Such as, other then me, is it the other monkey over there?” 

Nobuna became red from head to toe, her face can almost be used to boil water. 

“No....No such thing! This...This...This idiot is just my subordinate! A head of a family marrying just a lowly foot soldier is impossible! This...This...This kind of idiot, I'm totally, definitely, 100% don't feel anything from the bottom of my heart!!” 

Sagara is walking around in circles on the tatami mat for no reason, was suddenly kicked in the face by Nobuna. 

“It's hurts! What the hell are you doing!?” Sagara is angry too. 

'Actually I don't love you at all.' Suddenly being proposed by a guy who says something like this, Nobuna is so embarrassed that she is now confused. Sagara can't withstand such a thing anymore. 

“Being proposed to by such a suave guy and yet acting like this, you are exposing the normal you now!” 

“You...You...You... Don't just stand there not saying anything! This is a big matter regarding your master's chastity!” 

“Ya right! This is not a matter that a foot soldier like me has any right to say anything about!” 

“What? You should at least object! You are actually anxious right!? Or you intend to run away because he has such a handsome face? Don't tell me you are that kind of cowardly, chicken-hearted wimp?” 

“Hu...Huh? What are you saying!? Me, Sagara Yoshiharu-sama, do something like that? And what proof do you have that I'm running away?" 

“That...That is to say, the number 1 beauty in your dreams that you beg to have is going to be snatched away by this Asai Nagamasa, can you bear to be silent!?” 

The hot weather seems to just heat up their argument, as both of them totally ignored Nagamasa who is looking at them like a show, with their argument becoming more and more heated. 

“Wait just a minute there! You say who is the number 1 beauty?” 

“That's me of course! No one else but me!” 

“Huh? I'm just a lowly foot soldier, and a monkey. Don't you totally, definitely, 100% not feel anything from the bottom of your heart? Don't you label yourself as the Number 1 beauty in the world? If so, just find a gigolo who is matching in status and marry him; isn't that for the better?” 

“Wh...What? Not cute at all! Why can't you just cry and shout 'Nobuna-sama is marrying some other guy! No, I don't want something like this! No! No! No!'” 

“What the hell is that!? Who would do such a stupid thing!?” 

“Do it! Do it now! Shut up and beg me while crying 'Only this, please don't do it!' Or else I will really marry Nagamasa!” 

“Ya right! Non...Non...None of my business! Being charmed and attracted by such a guy who already declared that he isn't marrying you for love can only mean that you are a dumb woman, isn't that right!?” 

“Po...Po...Po...Political marriages are a common thing in this sengoku era! I'm a head of a country after all! I'm not someone who can just choose anyone I like and marry!” 

“Ahh, this sucks. I can't bear this anymore. Look at you! What you are doing now, is this the Oda Nobuna who is trying to conquer the world?” 

There will definitely be a day where Asai Nagamasa will break the alliance and betray the Oda clan. 

But, Sagara cannot tell Nobuna the 'future' from his knowledge of his games, that's the agreement between them. Because of this, Sagara is conflicted. If I just say 'Don't marry Nagamasa!' without a reason, Nobuna will definitely think that I'm jealous over her without thinking of my position, thus adding to her arrogance and pride. 

In actual fact, Sagara is already very jealous over this matter, but he himself just doesn't want to admit it! This, and Nobuna is his master, while he himself is her retainer at most. 

“Argh... I got it! It's definitely that! You must not have understood the real reason why I gave Nene to you as a sister!” 

“I understood it loud and clear! You just want to keep me away from any girls and have me live a life of torture right!? You are such a woman! No, a demon wearing the skin of a woman!" 

“.......Th...Th...That's it! You...You...You are quite clear, aren't you!?” 

“Hmmm!” 

“Hmmm!” 

And then both of them turn their back towards each other and fumed. 

Such a never seen before drama in front of the gentleman of Omi, Asai Nagamasa. Inuchiyo is helpless. 

“......becoming like this, it won't end until there is a result. We will definitely give you a reply.” 

Nagamasa replied readily “Proposing to the princess at her age suddenly, I might be a bit too hasty too. I believe that time for considering is needed, I hope there will be a good reply.” 

“......Understood.” 

“Oh yes, Inu-dono. Though it's a bit rude, I would like to despatch soldiers to Mino to help out too. If it's for the future of my beloved wife, Omi will always despatch aid to Owari.” 

A beautiful face not losing to a girl, a sudden proposal, and 'A political marriage abandoning love', those kind of brave words, all of them totally confuses Nobuna the brat who knows nothing about love yet. 

Bringing a smile that seems to have everything in control, Asai Nagamasa left Aoshuu castle. 

After Nobuna beat Sagara up completely, she then found out that Nagamasa has already left. Noticing this and shouting “Idiot monkey, this is your fault! If matters get worse, what will we do!?”, she left to her room while fuming. Inuchiyo followed hastily. 

…... 

Motoyasu, who was abandoned in the hall, poked her finger at the unmoving corpse of Sagara. 

“Saruharu-kun, Saruharu-kun? Are you still alive?” 

The half dead Sagara struggled back to the sitting positon, while twisting his almost broken neck. 

“......Almost... I think.” 

“Good job. Because of your performance with Kichi-nee-san, this matter was muddled through beautifully.” 

“Muddled through? Such a rare love lecture is spoiled into a fight.....” 

Motoyasu's lips turned into a proud smile like a Tanuki. 

“Kichi-nee-san will form an alliance with the Asai clan one day because of her proceeding to the capital. But if we form the alliance now, it's obvious that the stronger Asai clan will be more advantagous. The Asai clan specifically ran over to the Oda clan to ask for an alliance. However, to Kichi-nee-san this alliance is necessary to go to the capital." 

“Ah, that's why Nagamasa proposed to Nobuna with such an arrogant tone? Because he knows that Nobuna can not reject him?” 

“If she marries now, Kichi-nee-san will forever be below Nagamasa. But if we conquered Mino, in terms of provincial strength, Kichi-nee-san will have the definite lead. If that happens, Nobuna no longer has to marry Nagamasa no matter what; even without marriage, the forming of an alliance is still possible.” 

“I see.” 

“That's why, to not let Nagamasa help us conquer Mino, Kichi-nee-san is desperately finding ways to delay her reply to Nagamasa.” 

So that's why she suddenly attacked me. Sagara thought. 

“If that's the case, why can't she hint me subtly?” 

“Well, she was honestly angry around in the middle.” 

“Are we enemies in the past life? Why does she became so angry when she looks at my face?” 

Motoyasu nods her head a little. 

"As a childhood friend I can still understand a bit, but I can't tell Saruharu-kun.” 

“Why?” 

“Because it's a secret. It might even be my trump card at the right moment. Hehehe.” 

This small brat is really a bad hearted Tanuki Sagara thought to himself. 

After saying farewell to Motoyasu, Sagara ran as fast as he could to the city, passing by the streets of Aoshuu and finally met Asai Nagamasa's party. 

“I should at least scold this disgusting bastard Nagamasa for saying a bunch of crap to Nobuna so confidently.” 

“Oi, you! Stop right now!” 

“Master, should we kill him?“ Nagamasa's men showed their killing intent. 

“Another monkey? What do you have to say to this Saruyashamaru?” 

“...Eh.....! Oi, Nobuna might be like that, but she is a pure girl who believes in love! Yet you bastard still talked about a political marriage without love, troubling Nobuna!” 

“Hahaha, you run all the way here to complain just because of jealousy? You are just a retainer, so no matter how much you love her, you two are impossible.” 

“Nonono, it's not like that! At least...... At least tell her that you like her! What you are doing is quite cruel!” 

“I think that if I lie to her like that, it will be even more cruel to her. From the first day she became a sengoku daimyo, she should have given up her right to choose her partner.” 

“What did you say!?” 

“Nobuna-sama should have said it too, this is common in the sengoku era, Saru-kun. As a daimyo, she should always put the clan's interests first. To be troubled with choosing her husband is the behavior of a lowly servant. Plus, her ambition is to conquer the world; Nobuna should not be thinking of her own happiness as a woman.” 

“This kind of thing... How can this kind of thing....” 

“Hahahaha, you are such a kid. Love at first sight, that is the right of a commoner who merely needs to carry the responsibility of her home. As someone who carries the responsibility of an entire clan, Nobuna should have already given up on such a thing like the happiness of a woman. That is this common sense in this world.” Nagamasa overlooked Sagara on horseback, while coldly saying this. 

“As the saying goes, one must make the painful decision when it's time. Nobuna-sama is smart, she should have already thought through this and decided. In her heart, there is no other conclusion but for her to agree.” 

“That is to say, even if you guys do that elaborate act in front of me, it is at best a delaying technique. You, a lowly general, can't do anything. So just treasure the time you have now and cheer your princess up as the monkey you are.” 

“You...You...! You ev...even saw through that, yet still say things like 'Political marriage without love'.....You...You, don't you have your own feelings!?” 

“I should just say it straight out, rather then letting her have her ambitions of conquering the world while she can't even abandon her dream of choosing her husband, I will allow her to give up that small dream as soon as possible. What I'm doing is for her own good. I do not plan to, nor am I willing to do such a meaningless thing like lying to her.” 

“You...You just shut up! I have sworn that I will make every one of Nobuna's dreams come true. If she said she can't give up on the world or love, I will help her get both of them if it's the last thing to do! If, only if you can promise to fall in love with Nobuna.....” 

“Sorry, I feel no feelings of love to Nobuna-sama at all, and there will be none in the future either. My heart is already possessed with my ambition, that's why I still have a bit of virtue and am not trying to bring Nobuna-sama to my side by any means necessary. In the future, I will use this princess to help me conquer the world.” 

“.......You...You bastard......!” 

Not caring about anything and pouncing on Nagamasa, Sagara was brought to the floor by Nagamasa's men and beaten up badly. 

“Just like a kid.” 

Looking at the currently beaten up Sagara, Nagamasa eyes became serious. 

“You don't really think that you can be together with that princess?” 

“That...That kind of thing, I wasn't thinking about it at all! What I... I wanna say is.....” 

“I have heard of a vagrant named Sagara Yoshiharu in Owari, such a guy like you can never marry the Oda princess. If it really happens, you will be attacked by numerous ministers and people. Nobuna-sama will be branded with the title of 'The real dimwit' and subsequently abandoned. At that time, Nobuna-sama will be utterly ruined.” 

Nagamasa's words, though heartless, are the undeniable truth. 

But, even if that's the case, it's still unforgivable. 

You can never match up to her. Silently admitting to this gives Sagara an indescribable pain. This matter, Sagara can never accept it willingly no matter what. 

Nighttime came, and Sagara returned to the Five leaf aralia houses all tired, but first, he went into his neighbor Inuchiyo's house to listen to Nobuna's situation. 

But... 

“.....Hai....” 

Inuchiyo gave a small sign. 

“Inuchiyo, what is troubling you? Don't tell me you are thinking of Uiroumochi?” 

“......Was imitating the princess-sama just now.” 

“That didn't look like it one bit.” 

“......(Anger)” 

Inuchiyo raised a hand and tried to pinch Sagara's face, but Sagara dodged reflexively and rolled to the room's safe corner. 

Inuchiyo has also given up on chasing, and concentrated on cooking her Five leaf aralia soup. 

“......Princess-sama said nothing about her own love. So as to what she really thinks, Inuchiyo does not know.” 

“You've been following Nobuna around for so many years; can't you make a guess?” 

“......About this, I can't say anything to Sagara. That's what princess-sama ordered.” 

“What!? She plans to ignore me? Not cute at all.” 

Guru~guru~guru~guru [5] 

Angered, Sagara started to roll around the tatami mat in Inuchiyo's house. 

At this time, an old man walked over the threshold into the house. Looking at the state Sagara was in, he put his foot onto Sagara's stomach. 

“Oh!? That hurts, you old geezer!” 

“Hohohoho. A man making such a fuss in here, that is not like what you should be doing, brat.” 

This old man who has retired here after joining Nobuna's side, is the once Mino's head, viper Saitou Dousan. 

“Little girl, I will be disturbing you for a while.” 

“.....No problem.” 

After crossing swords with his god-son, Saitou Yoshitatsu and losing Mino to him, Saitou Dousan had been deported to Owari. Now, after passing his dream of conquering the world to his god-daughter Nobuna, Dousan no longer looks into political matters, and lives his life drinking tea. 

After all, Mino's viper is someone who the Oda clan has fought for many years, just his presence will make one uncomfortable. That's why facing the Oda's retainers who are still evaluating him, Dousan can only act cautiously. 

The Dousan in front of him coming all the way to the Five leaf aralia houses is the first though. 

“Coming here specifically, you must have some purpose, geezer.” 

Sagara sat up straight facing Dousan. 

Inuchiyo served tea wordlessly, while Dousan received it silently too. 

“Not at all, not at all, I have already chosen retirement. What I want to say today is nothing of great importance to the Oda clan." 

“So you're just here to chat? Because of that bastard Asai Nagamasa, my whole body is now bruised and hurts all over, why not tomorrow?” 

“Hohohoho. The news of Omi's Asai Nagamasa proposing to Nobuna-sama has already spread through Aoshuu city." 

“That's a bit too fast.” 

“It's probably Nagamasa who spread it. He is saying he hopes this marriage between Omi and Owari proceeds smoothly and as fast as possible. He seems to be trying to make this marriage a fact even before Nobuna-sama gives her reply.” 

“......Damn, that's too underhanded. As expected from someone who knows how to play with feelings.” 

“And,” Dousan said. 

“Anything else, geezer?” 

“Always looking forward, you who are always running around for Nobuna-sama, I can't really agree with your actions today.” 

“Me? What's wrong with me?” 

“Nobuna-sama is facing one of the biggest decisions in her lifetime, yet you chose to hide in Inuchiyo-dono's room and sulk while lying down. This is not the Sagara Yoshiharu I know.” 

Sagara, troubled, lowered his head. 

Even so, there are no lies within Nagamasa's cold words. I'm just making a fuss like a kid' Sagara grumbled silently in his heart. 

“.....Yes, you're right, geezer. But who Nobuna wants'ta marry is up to her, right? As her lowest retainer, I have no right to say anything, since the difference in our positions is just too big.” 

Saitou Dousan's expression became serious suddenly, staring at Sagara while scolding “You... big fool!!!” 

Sagara's body is pushed back by the pressure formed by Dousan's words. 

“Wa, that almost scared me to death!” 

“Brat! You are just running away!” 

“Why...Why does everyone say I'm running away!?” 

“What is it about the lowest position among the retainers? What is it about no right to say anything? What is it about too great a difference in position? If that's so, all you have to do is to climb up! Isn't it all right if you become someone great!?” Dousan patted Sagara's shoulders with the fan in his hands. 

“I was but a merchant selling oil, but now I'm a daimyo too! No matter what Nagamasa might plan to do, just remember, this is not the era of considering positions! Listen brat! For humans, there is no such thing as 'positions'.” 

“So, instead of lamenting your lowly position, why don't you think of increasing your strength!” Dousan restated it again. 

“Becoming...someone great....?” 

“Yes. Sagara Yoshiharu, you came from the future Japan because you want to let Nobuna-sama rely on you, no?” 

“......Ah. I still don't know the reason I came over to the sengoku era, but I have thought about it. I might have come here from my era so I can be by the side of the genius, who is misunderstood by the world.” 

“If so, at the coming battle of Mino, make an achievement that no one else can! Make yourself into a retainer that no one can replace; contribute to the Oda clan like nobody can. If you do so, Nobuna-sama will definitely use you, and you will become an Oda general." 

(If so, I might just be able to.....) 

“General, you mean to say having your own retainers, and having a province on my own under Nobuna's command? You mean I should become someone like that, geezer?” 

“Yes. At that time, you don't need to be so timid. You can just say out loud that you object to the marriage with Asai Nagamasa.” 

“But.....” 

“Listen, brat. As you have seen, Asai Nagamasa is a handsome man who has attracted many girls, but he has sealed his heart due to him being a hostage in the Sasaki clan, and has decided to never love any girl. He has used the Sasaki clan's retainers' wives and daughers an uncountable number of times, and thrown them away. 

“.......What!?” 

“Because of this, Nagamasa allowed the Asai clan to obtain independence from the Sasaki clan. As a sengoku daimyo, he is someone to be feared. But as a man, that is also his fatal weakness. 

Dong...Dong...Dong...Dong... 

Sagara's heart seem to pound nosily, as if being affected by something. 

“As expected, what I heard this morning in the teashop are all Nagamasa's real intentions.” 

“That is to say, from now on, Nagamasa will never develop any trace of love for Nobuna-sama.” 

Sagara's heart feels like it's being shattered into pieces. 

Dousan continued to say: “Political marriages are the common sense in this sengoku era. Towards the princess daimyo Nobuna-sama, a marriage can even mean a trump card to expanding her power. To chase after the dream of conquering the world, she has no choice but to abandon her dream as a girl. This is an obvious decision.” 

But... 

“For the dream of conquering the world, she plans to abandon another irreplaceable dream. If she does, that child's later life will be filled with memories of loneliness and solitude. Even if in the end she obtains the world, do you really think it's all right like that?” 

Biting his lips, Sagara's eyes hardened. 

He spoke as though talking to himself..... 

"......There is no helping it. This is the rule in the sengoku era, wanting to get both the world and love is not possible, Nagamasa also said that...." 

Sagara understands this more then any others, he doesn't mean to say this kind of thing. 

His own voice, due to his strong unwillingness, started to tremble and choked. 

“Brat, that's all I have to say tonight. After this, it's your decision.” 

Dousan finished and walked slowly out of Inuchiyo's house. 

After Dousan left, Sagara remained in his seiza position like a statue, not moving at all. 

“......Sagara, Five leaf aralia soup is done.” 

With a face full of worry, Inuchiyo pulled lightly on Sagara's sleeve. 

“Hey, Inuchiyo.” 

“......Today's soup, I added some overseas chili. It's delicious, ask Nene over too.” 

“Nobuna and Nagamasa's marriage, what is your opinion on that?” 

“......Of course, I Object.” 

“Yeah. Can you persuade Nobuna, tell her 'I object' and stop this marriage?” 

Inuchiyo shake her head lightly. 

“.....Impossible.” 

“Eh? Why? How about Katsuie or Nagahide?” 

“......If it's not Sagara, it most probably will fail.” 

“Why?” 

“......The one retainer who really understands princess-sama's dreams, is you.” 

Inuchiyo looks at Sagara's eyes, and said lightly. 

Unifying the world, growing Japan to a country where they are as strong as the European countries, creating such a strong country. And then, travelling around the sea using a big ship, using her own eyes to look at the “world” she had never seen before. 

These are Nobuna's dreams. 

And... 

And, Nobuna has another, a small dream. 

Nobuna once told Nagamasa directly, didn't she? 

“I will at least want to choose my own husband!” 

Though she is a princess daimyo, this speech could come from a kid; not speaking with common sense at all, it might even be something that people ignore. But, undeniably, this is what her real self let slip under her confusion. 

This is what Nobuna has buried deep inside her heart, a hypocritical yet pure dream. 

Because of this, that's why Sagara can never accept Nagamasa's “For the world, abandon love”. By not caring about Nobuna's real intentions and proposing a political marriage, Nagamasa will only chaining Nobuna down forever. 

Sagara can never forgive this sort of thing. 

"I understand, Inuchiyo.” 

I am definitely here to help make her wishes come true; that's why I came to this world. 

This might not be the truth at all, but that's what I think. 

To Nobuna, I had sworn an oath too. 

I forgot what I should do just because of my own lowly position. But due to Dousan that geezer and Inuchiyo, I finally remembered. 

“Thanks, Inuchiyo!” 

Sagara held Inuchiyo's hands tightly, his eyes glittered with joy. 

“I have decided, I will make an outstanding achievement during the battle with Mino! And then, I will become a worthy Oda general, letting the Oda family become strong, and stop this marriage between Nobuna and Nagamasa. To match up with her who has set her eyes on the 'world', that guy must at least be better.” 

“......Inuchiyo, will help out.” 

“If that's the case, I can stop them rightfully! Nagamasa, just you wait. I will destroy this plan of yours! I'm going to Aoshuu city to spread rumors that you are a womanizer! You just wait and see, Nagamasa! He...Hehe...Hehehehehe.....!” 

Pinch~Inuchiyo pinched Sagara's cheeks. 

“......Sagara, you laugh perversely. First, Mino.” 

“I know, I know!” 

Sagara rubbed his cheeks, but suddenly he tilted his head. 

Hmmm? 

Why, after deciding that I should stop Nobuna's marriage, does my heart feel so at ease? 

(I know, it must be because I can let that Nobuna who feels that she is popular suffer a shock when the marriage is destroyed, yes, it can't be wrong! That idiot, how dare she send Nene to me to disrupt me from flirting, now is the time for payback! As long as I can't find a girlfriend, she will be single with me too! What goes around comes around! Let's wait and see!) 

Being convinced by this kind of stupid reason, Sagara let out a sinister “hehehe” laughter, while Inuchiyo at the side thinks “Sometimes troubled, sometimes fussy, sometimes laughing, sometimes wearing a sinister face; Sagara is strange today” and looked at Sagara.