swc: nagamasa events.
Yes, Nagamasa, fighting the battle with the force three times your own is totally the easy part after talking to a retainer for five minutes to get him to agree to it. Logic.
Female path, although you wouldn't know it from the shoddy editing!
Nagamasa's Dream
MC called on Nagamasa Azai at Odani Castle.
Nagamasa: MC, I'd like to introduce you to someone. Naotsune Endo, a wise and brave master of strategy.
Naotsune Endo bowed to MC. He cut an imposing figure.
Nagamasa: And excellent though he may be, he is somewhat inflexible. It is a problem.
Naotsune did not so much as bat an eyelash. Nagamasa continued.
Nagamasa: The Azai clan is under pressure from neighboring provinces, and the Rokkaku are demanding that we submit to them.
Nagamasa: These are circumstances I wish to change. To this end, I shall ask my father, the current clan leader, to step down.
Nagamasa had nonchalantly revealed a treacherous plan to usurp his father and deny his succession plan.
Nagamasa: I have summoned you here for two reasons. First, I wanted to persuade Naotsune to accept my plan.
Nagamasa: Naotsune will hear nothing of removing my father and allowing me to take over.
Naotsune: If we keep your father alive, we can use the excuse that we can't afford a split in the family, or the fear of outside forces.
Nagamasa: I do not think that will work. MC, what do you think?
>>I agree with Nagamasa.
Nagamasa: Did you hear that, Naotsune? Even an outsider can see that my plan is the correct one.
>>I agree with Naotsune.
Naotsune: I thought that an associate of Nagamasa's would be disagreeable, but I am proven wrong.
Naotsune: To any truly impartial observer, I am clearly correct. Some sacrifices are to be expected. We should be prepared to make them.
Nagamasa: Naotsune, that is not sacrifice. That's nothing more than giving in to something unacceptable.
Nagamasa: My goal is a contented land where all can live together in peace.
Nagamasa: There is no need for sacrifice, nothing that must be thrown away, in order to bring happiness to all.
Nagamasa took Naotsune and MC by the hands, and stared into their eyes.
Nagamasa: Please understand.
Unable to match Nagamasa's intense stare, Naotsune averted his eyes.
Naotsune: If that is Lord Nagamasa's command, I must obey.
Nagamasa: So you have come around, Naotsune! We have MC to thank for this!
Nagamasa: Well then, MC, the second reason I've called you here is far less unpleasant than persuading Naotsune.
Nagamasa: In order to truly lead my clan, I must demonstrate my authority to our retainers.
Nagamasa: Starting a war with the Rokkaku should accomplish this. Their force is many times stronger than ours.
Nagamasa: MC, I am in awe of your might! Please join us in our battle.
>>All right. To battle!
Nagamasa: Exactly the answer I had hoped for.
>>Madness! It cannot be done!
Nagamasa: There is no way to know for sure other than to try!
Nagamasa attacked the powerful Rokkaku clan. The great Rokkaku army of 20,000 flooded onto the field.
However, Nagamasa, Naotsune, and MC had planned for the overwhelming numbers, and used the element of surprise.
The Rokkaku clan was defeated, and the Azai maintained their independence.
Nagamasa's father and retainers witnessed his ability first hand, and Nagamasa peacefully assumed leadership of the Azai clan.
Nagamasa: This too I owe to you, MC. We must move forward with our vision of a contented existence for all.
>>Nagamasa, a hero in this time of Chaos!
Nagamasa: I'm no great hero.
>>Good Luck!
Nagamasa: Thank you. I only contribute as I am able.
The Azai retainers welcomed Nagamasa enthusiastically as their new patron. Nagamasa clasped MC's hand tightly.
Nagamasa: I know I want to depend on you in the years ahead!
Alliance with the Oda
On a visit to Odani castle, MC came upon a troubled-looking Nagamasa and a brooding Naotsune.
Nagamasa: You've come at a good time, MC. It seems Naotsune could still use some convincing.
Nagamasa: We have received a proposal from the Owari Oda clan regarding a marriage to cement our alliance.
Nagamasa: The Oda clan's relationship with our ancient allies the Asakura is rocky, however.
Nagamasa: My father is an outspoken opponent of the alliance. As Naotsune once pointed out, our clan is divided.
Naotsune: There is no need to dwell upon the past, Lord Nagamasa. The pressing issue is what action best serves us now.
Naotsune: My advice stands: I believe the marriage into the Oda clan should proceed as planned.
>>Is not Naotsune opposed to an alliance with the Oda?
>>Is an alliance with the Oda a good move?
Naotsune: Of course, an alliance with the Oda is out of the question. Nobunaga will someday be the ruin of the Azai clan.
Naotsune: His ambitions do not end with the Owari or Mino. He will claim Ōmi, and likely the entire realm.
Naotsune: We have an opportunity to lure Nobunaga to the wedding ceremony, slay him, and strike at the root of his wicked designs.
Nagamasa: I do not think that will work. MC. What do you think?
>>I agree with Nagamasa.
Nagamasa: Didn't MC say at Okehazama after witnessing the feats of Nobunaga, that he shouldn't be killed?
Nagamasa: We are not as scheming as Lord Nobunaga. And that gives us the power to end this chaos.
Nagamasa: We need that power if we are to bring about the happy world of my dreams.
>>I agree with Naotsune.
Naotsune: MC, you had a good look at Nobunaga at Okehazama. Surely you must understand.
Naotsune: Nobunaga is perverse in his methods! We are most assuredly not! If we do not eliminate him now, then we will have to sometime in the future.
Nagamasa took Naotsune and MC by their hands, and stared into their eyes.
Naotsune: My lord, I...
Nagamasa: Please understand.
Unable to match Nagamasa's intense stare, Naotsune averted his eyes.
Naotsune: When you look me in the eye that way, I will obey without fail.
Nagamasa: However, we must receive assurance that the Oda will not move against the Asakura as a condition of our pact.
Nagamasa: With this one condition assured, my father and the Asakura will not be inclined to oppose our union.
Naotsune: My Lord, please reconsider your condition. Once the pact has been sealed, if we break with the Asakura and join forces with Oda, what will happen?
Naotsune: Whichever ally is spurned will become a source of trouble in the future.
Nagamasa: That's nothing to worry about.
Nagamasa: No matter what, I have you fine men with me; with our combined strength we can overcome any obstacle!
Nagamasa: In this world we have conceived, none need be excluded.
Naotsune: I cannot stand against you, Lord Nagamasa. I will do as you command.
Nagamasa: Now you've come around! Now let's move ahead and form an alliance between the Azai and Oda clans.
Nagamasa departed triumphantly. Naotsune turned to MC and sighed.
Naotsune: In this way, are Azai to become no more than Oda vassals? However, if Lord Nobunaga completes his conquests we will be among the greatest of daimyo.
Naotsune: Lord Nagamasa is so sincerely committed. That is exactly why it is dangerous. MC, you must save him from himself.
The pact between the Oda and Azai clans was sealed, and Nobunaga's sister Oichi was married to Nagamasa.
Values
Nagamasa: Ah, MC. Look upon the natural beauty of Ōmi.
Nagamasa: I know you have seen it before. I want it to be a land free of war.
Nagamasa caught a glimpse of Oichi strolling in the distance.
Nagamasa: I want to protect those precious to me.
>>What lovely sentiments.
Nagamasa: You understand my feelings. Splendid!
>>Which is more precious to you, nature or Oichi?
Nagamasa: What? How can you even ask such a thing? The answer is obvious!
Nagamasa: MC, people are curious creatures.
Nagamasa: The mere thought of that which we hold precious evokes such mystery and power.
Nagamasa: MC, is there someone or something that you hold dear?
>>Of course!
Nagamasa: I'm happy to hear it! Devote yourself to that, whatever it may be!
>>You are important.
Nagamasa: Thank you. You are precious to me as well, MC.
Oichi: Nagamasa... Come here, won't you, Nagamasa?
Oichi called for Nagamasa.
>>Lady Oichi calls for you!
Nagamasa: Indeed. Forgive me, MC. We will speak again another time.
>>Can't we talk just a little longer?
Nagamasa: Oh, of course! Oichi, wait just a moment, won't you?
Nagamasa continued to speak with MC for another half hour.
Nagamasa: Well, I must take my leave.
Oichi: Nagamasa!
Nagamasa: Oichi! I'm sorry, I'm coming!
Nagamasa's Decision
In 1570, Nobunaga launched an assault on his longtime enemies, the Asakura clan.
When a request for reinforcements arrived from the Asakura, the Azai clan erupted in turmoil.
Nagamasa: My father is at the center of this turmoil. He says that Oda's attack on the Asakura, violates the terms of our alliance.
Nagamasa: They are opposed by those who think we should stand by the agreement with Nobunaga. It is just as Naotsune predicted.
Naotsune: There is no need to dwell upon the past, Lord Nagamasa. The pressing issue is what action best serves us now.
Nagamasa: He knew. We will come to Lord Asakura's aid. We will attack Nobunaga, my brother-in-law from the rear, capture him, and put him on a tight leash.
Naotsune: He violated our agreement by attacking the Asakura without contacting us first. You should be furious. Yet you are not!
Nagamasa: Following my path, there is no need for such crass emotions such as anger.
Nagamasa: Lord Asakura will probably be utterly destroyed by Nobunaga. That would not please anyone.
Nagamasa: At last, I must part ways with Nobunaga, and fight for the world I envision.
Naotsune: What will become of Oichi?
Nagamasa: I will send her back to Oda. When we have established our world of peace, I will come for her.
Naotsune: Fool! Foolish, stupid, man! My lord Nagamasa, you know nothing!
Naotsune: Lady Oichi wishes to fight by your side! She conceals her sorrow and still has the courage to smile!
Naotsune: To choose one thing is to give up another. Choose Oichi, and you must abandon the Asakura!
Nagamasa: To abandon someone so that those that remain with you will be happy - such a thing would be very unfortunate.
Naotsune: Possibility, dreams, your own vision - abandon them all! They are mere illusions that breed only sorrow!
Nagamasa: Even my brother-in-law would call such an empty life wicked, hateful, and corrupt.
Nagamasa took Naotsune's hand in his own and stared into his eyes.
Naotsune: My lord Nagamasa.
As Nagamasa stared at the silent Naotsune, he had already issued the order mobilizing his entire army.
Nagamasa: Attention! We will catch Oda from behind at Kanegasaki! We will drive the violator Nobunaga before us!
The Oda's Revenge
In 1570, Nobunaga Oda, driven from the field at Kanegasaki, launched an attack against the Azai.
Naotsune: Our enemy takes aim at Yokoyama Castle- brilliant. If they take Yokoyama, they will cut our line of communications.
Naotsune: If we are to work in coordination with the Asakura and Ōmi, we cannot plan to withstand a siege at Odani. We have no choice but to take the field and attack.
Nagamasa: Nobunaga is a master at avoiding protacted battles, preferring to quickly and decisively rout his enemies.
Nagamasa: It's as if he knows we have entered into a secret alliance with his enemies, the Takeda clan and Saika rebels.
Late into the night, the Azai camp bustled with activity, with soldiers running to and fro.
Nagamasa: I want to secure our victory with this battle. I want to make a world where everyone can live in peace a reality.
Nagamasa: If the Takeda and Saika are encircled by Oda after they arrive, it will be difficult to aid them after we have defeated Nobunaga.
Nagamasa: I don't want to kill Nobunaga. But for the sake of my vision, for Oichi, I will attack.
Naotsune: Our army marches in the night. The next morning, they ambush the Oda Army on the banks of the Anegawa, and scatter them.
Naotsune: Is your plan proving as effective as you had hoped?
Nagamasa: Yes. With just a little more effort, the day will be ours.
Naotsune: All is well, then. I'm off to check the battle's progress. I shall return.
With that, Naotsune took his leave of Nagamasa. He talked to himself as he walked the many paths through the camp.
Naotsune: We work feverishly so late into the night. Nobunaga acts as though he expects our surprise attack.
Naotsune: Tomorrow will be a day of great peril for our own army instead. Nagamasa's plan for victory is suicidal.
The face of a person drifted through Naotsune's mind.
Naotsune: I must disguise myself as an Oda officer, get close to Oda, and cut him down.
Naotsune: Whether I succeed or fail, I shall surely be slain by his guards. But I'll have no regrets.
Naotsune looked at his hand and clenched his fist.
Naotsune: I must do it to protect my naive lord Nagamasa.
Tragedy at Odani
The Azai and Asakura continued to press the attack on Oda. However, they were unable to defeat him conclusively.
The Asakura disintegrated under Oda's fierce assault and were annihilated, and the Azai were cornered.
Nagamasa Azai barricaded himself in Odani Castle and made final preparations in hopes of resisting the assault.
MC and Hanbei Takenaka came to the Azai to advise Nagamasa to capitulate.
Hanbei: Nagamasa, we come as Oda's representatives.
Nagamasa: MC is with you Hanbei? It's been a long time since we've seen each other.
Nagamasa: It was you two who saw through Naotsune's plan at Anegawa.
Hanbei: I've wronged you, I suppose.
Nagamasa: Even if Naotsune's plan succeeded, and Nobunaga had been killed, it would not have brought me any closer to the realization of my vision.
Hanbei: Though you have done much for me in the past, I have come to advise you to surrender.
Nagamasa: Then you've come in vain. You are, after all, Oda's retainers.
Hanbei: Please, Nagamasa, surrender. You don't have to die here.
Nagamasa: Hanbei, MC, I appreciate your concern for my well-being. But I cannot surrender.
Hanbei: Why not?
Nagamasa: My vision is incompatible with the path Nobunaga has chosen.
Hanbei: Yes... What was that? To seek a world of peace where we can all live in peace and safety?
Hanbei, clutching his chest, drew nearer.
Hanbei: Please, Nagamasa. Even if I, or anyone, promised to help realize your vision, you still wouldn't surrender, would you?
The shadow of a smile crossed Nagamasa's face as he stood.
Hanbei: So that's it. Of course.
Nagamasa: I have a request, for old times' sake. I want you to take Oichi and my three daughters with you.
Hanbei: Is it because you don't want to entangle them in your death?
Nagamasa: I would never want that. This will be my final battle. If I am victorious, and the world is mine, I will come for them.
Hanbei: Dim though I may be, you needn't lie. You said so yourself, this will be your final battle.
Nagamasa: I leave my wife and daughters in your care, Hanbei.
Hanbei: I understand, Nagamasa. I will honor your wish.
Hanbei departed. Only Nagamasa and MC remained.
Nagamasa: MC, I suppose this is farewell.
>>I will remain by your side until the end!
Nagamasa: My selfishness binds you to my side, is that what you mean?
Nagamasa: If you wish to help me, then hear my request.
>>I pray for your safety.
Nagamasa: Once some time has passed, please give this to Oichi. I entrust this to you and you alone.
Nagamasa: This a rosette Oichi gave to me It contains so many tranquil thoughts and memories of Oichi.
Nagamasa: That's why I cannot lose it here. If you wish to provide me some measure of solace, please give it to Oichi.
Nagamasa handed MC a small rosette.
Nagamasa: MC, you are a true friend.
Nagamasa: It was a joy to have known you. Farewell.
Nagamasa entered the Main Keep alone.
MC met Hanbei, and together they left Odani Castle behind.
Hanbei: A peaceful world, where we can all live in peace and safety. Is it possible?
Hanbei: Like Nagamasa, I hoped that we could build that world. I truly did.
Nagamasa's Legacy
Ten years after Nagamasa's death, Oichi died at Shizugatake.
MC held the rosette that Nagamasa had entrusted to him.
Nagamasa and Oichi had three daughters.
>>Give the rosette to Chacha, the eldest.
MC called on Chacha to give her the rosette.
As Chacha grasped the rosette, she wept bitterly as she wailed her parents' names.
Chacha: I have received my father's dreams and vision for the world.
Chacha: I will continue the proud traditions of my Azai and Oda blood, and never let them die. I will do everything I can to make father's dream a reality.
Chacha: MC, though I am without power or influence, will you be my ally?
Chacha clutched the rosette tightly as she spoke.
MC patted Chacha gently on the back and departed.
>>Give the rosette to Ohatsu, the middle daughter.
MC called on Ohatsu to give her the rosette.
As Ohatsu took the rosette in her hand, she closed her eyes, and called her parents' names.
Hatsu: Mother and Father, I have received this rosette and will serve as a bridge connecting people.
Hatsu: Even the slightest misstep can spiral out of control, creating enemies and a world of strife.
Hatsu: Father and Mother sought to act as mediators, in the hopes of creating a lasting peace.
Ohatsu clutched the rosette tightly as she spoke.
MC patted Ohatsu gently on the back and departed.
>>Give the rosette to Ogō, the youngest.
MC called on Ogō to give her the rosette.
When Ogō received the rosette, she smiled faintly.
Gō: I'm sorry, I don't even remember my father's face. I was just an infant when my father died.
Gō: But the face of my mother, who later married Katsuie, I will never forget.
Gō: She was a strong woman. She was always forward looking. I will never forget her.
Gō: I recall looking at the backs of my stepfather and my mother. I want children to see my strong back as I look ahead. I want to connect them with the world.
Ogō clutched the rosette as she spoke.
MC patted Ogō gently on the back and departed.
Female path, although you wouldn't know it from the shoddy editing!
Nagamasa's Dream
MC called on Nagamasa Azai at Odani Castle.
Nagamasa: MC, I'd like to introduce you to someone. Naotsune Endo, a wise and brave master of strategy.
Naotsune Endo bowed to MC. He cut an imposing figure.
Nagamasa: And excellent though he may be, he is somewhat inflexible. It is a problem.
Naotsune did not so much as bat an eyelash. Nagamasa continued.
Nagamasa: The Azai clan is under pressure from neighboring provinces, and the Rokkaku are demanding that we submit to them.
Nagamasa: These are circumstances I wish to change. To this end, I shall ask my father, the current clan leader, to step down.
Nagamasa had nonchalantly revealed a treacherous plan to usurp his father and deny his succession plan.
Nagamasa: I have summoned you here for two reasons. First, I wanted to persuade Naotsune to accept my plan.
Nagamasa: Naotsune will hear nothing of removing my father and allowing me to take over.
Naotsune: If we keep your father alive, we can use the excuse that we can't afford a split in the family, or the fear of outside forces.
Nagamasa: I do not think that will work. MC, what do you think?
>>I agree with Nagamasa.
Nagamasa: Did you hear that, Naotsune? Even an outsider can see that my plan is the correct one.
>>I agree with Naotsune.
Naotsune: I thought that an associate of Nagamasa's would be disagreeable, but I am proven wrong.
Naotsune: To any truly impartial observer, I am clearly correct. Some sacrifices are to be expected. We should be prepared to make them.
Nagamasa: Naotsune, that is not sacrifice. That's nothing more than giving in to something unacceptable.
Nagamasa: My goal is a contented land where all can live together in peace.
Nagamasa: There is no need for sacrifice, nothing that must be thrown away, in order to bring happiness to all.
Nagamasa took Naotsune and MC by the hands, and stared into their eyes.
Nagamasa: Please understand.
Unable to match Nagamasa's intense stare, Naotsune averted his eyes.
Naotsune: If that is Lord Nagamasa's command, I must obey.
Nagamasa: So you have come around, Naotsune! We have MC to thank for this!
Nagamasa: Well then, MC, the second reason I've called you here is far less unpleasant than persuading Naotsune.
Nagamasa: In order to truly lead my clan, I must demonstrate my authority to our retainers.
Nagamasa: Starting a war with the Rokkaku should accomplish this. Their force is many times stronger than ours.
Nagamasa: MC, I am in awe of your might! Please join us in our battle.
>>All right. To battle!
Nagamasa: Exactly the answer I had hoped for.
>>Madness! It cannot be done!
Nagamasa: There is no way to know for sure other than to try!
Nagamasa attacked the powerful Rokkaku clan. The great Rokkaku army of 20,000 flooded onto the field.
However, Nagamasa, Naotsune, and MC had planned for the overwhelming numbers, and used the element of surprise.
The Rokkaku clan was defeated, and the Azai maintained their independence.
Nagamasa's father and retainers witnessed his ability first hand, and Nagamasa peacefully assumed leadership of the Azai clan.
Nagamasa: This too I owe to you, MC. We must move forward with our vision of a contented existence for all.
>>Nagamasa, a hero in this time of Chaos!
Nagamasa: I'm no great hero.
>>Good Luck!
Nagamasa: Thank you. I only contribute as I am able.
The Azai retainers welcomed Nagamasa enthusiastically as their new patron. Nagamasa clasped MC's hand tightly.
Nagamasa: I know I want to depend on you in the years ahead!
Alliance with the Oda
On a visit to Odani castle, MC came upon a troubled-looking Nagamasa and a brooding Naotsune.
Nagamasa: You've come at a good time, MC. It seems Naotsune could still use some convincing.
Nagamasa: We have received a proposal from the Owari Oda clan regarding a marriage to cement our alliance.
Nagamasa: The Oda clan's relationship with our ancient allies the Asakura is rocky, however.
Nagamasa: My father is an outspoken opponent of the alliance. As Naotsune once pointed out, our clan is divided.
Naotsune: There is no need to dwell upon the past, Lord Nagamasa. The pressing issue is what action best serves us now.
Naotsune: My advice stands: I believe the marriage into the Oda clan should proceed as planned.
>>Is not Naotsune opposed to an alliance with the Oda?
>>Is an alliance with the Oda a good move?
Naotsune: Of course, an alliance with the Oda is out of the question. Nobunaga will someday be the ruin of the Azai clan.
Naotsune: His ambitions do not end with the Owari or Mino. He will claim Ōmi, and likely the entire realm.
Naotsune: We have an opportunity to lure Nobunaga to the wedding ceremony, slay him, and strike at the root of his wicked designs.
Nagamasa: I do not think that will work. MC. What do you think?
>>I agree with Nagamasa.
Nagamasa: Didn't MC say at Okehazama after witnessing the feats of Nobunaga, that he shouldn't be killed?
Nagamasa: We are not as scheming as Lord Nobunaga. And that gives us the power to end this chaos.
Nagamasa: We need that power if we are to bring about the happy world of my dreams.
>>I agree with Naotsune.
Naotsune: MC, you had a good look at Nobunaga at Okehazama. Surely you must understand.
Naotsune: Nobunaga is perverse in his methods! We are most assuredly not! If we do not eliminate him now, then we will have to sometime in the future.
Nagamasa took Naotsune and MC by their hands, and stared into their eyes.
Naotsune: My lord, I...
Nagamasa: Please understand.
Unable to match Nagamasa's intense stare, Naotsune averted his eyes.
Naotsune: When you look me in the eye that way, I will obey without fail.
Nagamasa: However, we must receive assurance that the Oda will not move against the Asakura as a condition of our pact.
Nagamasa: With this one condition assured, my father and the Asakura will not be inclined to oppose our union.
Naotsune: My Lord, please reconsider your condition. Once the pact has been sealed, if we break with the Asakura and join forces with Oda, what will happen?
Naotsune: Whichever ally is spurned will become a source of trouble in the future.
Nagamasa: That's nothing to worry about.
Nagamasa: No matter what, I have you fine men with me; with our combined strength we can overcome any obstacle!
Nagamasa: In this world we have conceived, none need be excluded.
Naotsune: I cannot stand against you, Lord Nagamasa. I will do as you command.
Nagamasa: Now you've come around! Now let's move ahead and form an alliance between the Azai and Oda clans.
Nagamasa departed triumphantly. Naotsune turned to MC and sighed.
Naotsune: In this way, are Azai to become no more than Oda vassals? However, if Lord Nobunaga completes his conquests we will be among the greatest of daimyo.
Naotsune: Lord Nagamasa is so sincerely committed. That is exactly why it is dangerous. MC, you must save him from himself.
The pact between the Oda and Azai clans was sealed, and Nobunaga's sister Oichi was married to Nagamasa.
Values
Nagamasa: Ah, MC. Look upon the natural beauty of Ōmi.
Nagamasa: I know you have seen it before. I want it to be a land free of war.
Nagamasa caught a glimpse of Oichi strolling in the distance.
Nagamasa: I want to protect those precious to me.
>>What lovely sentiments.
Nagamasa: You understand my feelings. Splendid!
>>Which is more precious to you, nature or Oichi?
Nagamasa: What? How can you even ask such a thing? The answer is obvious!
Nagamasa: MC, people are curious creatures.
Nagamasa: The mere thought of that which we hold precious evokes such mystery and power.
Nagamasa: MC, is there someone or something that you hold dear?
>>Of course!
Nagamasa: I'm happy to hear it! Devote yourself to that, whatever it may be!
>>You are important.
Nagamasa: Thank you. You are precious to me as well, MC.
Oichi: Nagamasa... Come here, won't you, Nagamasa?
Oichi called for Nagamasa.
>>Lady Oichi calls for you!
Nagamasa: Indeed. Forgive me, MC. We will speak again another time.
>>Can't we talk just a little longer?
Nagamasa: Oh, of course! Oichi, wait just a moment, won't you?
Nagamasa continued to speak with MC for another half hour.
Nagamasa: Well, I must take my leave.
Oichi: Nagamasa!
Nagamasa: Oichi! I'm sorry, I'm coming!
Nagamasa's Decision
In 1570, Nobunaga launched an assault on his longtime enemies, the Asakura clan.
When a request for reinforcements arrived from the Asakura, the Azai clan erupted in turmoil.
Nagamasa: My father is at the center of this turmoil. He says that Oda's attack on the Asakura, violates the terms of our alliance.
Nagamasa: They are opposed by those who think we should stand by the agreement with Nobunaga. It is just as Naotsune predicted.
Naotsune: There is no need to dwell upon the past, Lord Nagamasa. The pressing issue is what action best serves us now.
Nagamasa: He knew. We will come to Lord Asakura's aid. We will attack Nobunaga, my brother-in-law from the rear, capture him, and put him on a tight leash.
Naotsune: He violated our agreement by attacking the Asakura without contacting us first. You should be furious. Yet you are not!
Nagamasa: Following my path, there is no need for such crass emotions such as anger.
Nagamasa: Lord Asakura will probably be utterly destroyed by Nobunaga. That would not please anyone.
Nagamasa: At last, I must part ways with Nobunaga, and fight for the world I envision.
Naotsune: What will become of Oichi?
Nagamasa: I will send her back to Oda. When we have established our world of peace, I will come for her.
Naotsune: Fool! Foolish, stupid, man! My lord Nagamasa, you know nothing!
Naotsune: Lady Oichi wishes to fight by your side! She conceals her sorrow and still has the courage to smile!
Naotsune: To choose one thing is to give up another. Choose Oichi, and you must abandon the Asakura!
Nagamasa: To abandon someone so that those that remain with you will be happy - such a thing would be very unfortunate.
Naotsune: Possibility, dreams, your own vision - abandon them all! They are mere illusions that breed only sorrow!
Nagamasa: Even my brother-in-law would call such an empty life wicked, hateful, and corrupt.
Nagamasa took Naotsune's hand in his own and stared into his eyes.
Naotsune: My lord Nagamasa.
As Nagamasa stared at the silent Naotsune, he had already issued the order mobilizing his entire army.
Nagamasa: Attention! We will catch Oda from behind at Kanegasaki! We will drive the violator Nobunaga before us!
The Oda's Revenge
In 1570, Nobunaga Oda, driven from the field at Kanegasaki, launched an attack against the Azai.
Naotsune: Our enemy takes aim at Yokoyama Castle- brilliant. If they take Yokoyama, they will cut our line of communications.
Naotsune: If we are to work in coordination with the Asakura and Ōmi, we cannot plan to withstand a siege at Odani. We have no choice but to take the field and attack.
Nagamasa: Nobunaga is a master at avoiding protacted battles, preferring to quickly and decisively rout his enemies.
Nagamasa: It's as if he knows we have entered into a secret alliance with his enemies, the Takeda clan and Saika rebels.
Late into the night, the Azai camp bustled with activity, with soldiers running to and fro.
Nagamasa: I want to secure our victory with this battle. I want to make a world where everyone can live in peace a reality.
Nagamasa: If the Takeda and Saika are encircled by Oda after they arrive, it will be difficult to aid them after we have defeated Nobunaga.
Nagamasa: I don't want to kill Nobunaga. But for the sake of my vision, for Oichi, I will attack.
Naotsune: Our army marches in the night. The next morning, they ambush the Oda Army on the banks of the Anegawa, and scatter them.
Naotsune: Is your plan proving as effective as you had hoped?
Nagamasa: Yes. With just a little more effort, the day will be ours.
Naotsune: All is well, then. I'm off to check the battle's progress. I shall return.
With that, Naotsune took his leave of Nagamasa. He talked to himself as he walked the many paths through the camp.
Naotsune: We work feverishly so late into the night. Nobunaga acts as though he expects our surprise attack.
Naotsune: Tomorrow will be a day of great peril for our own army instead. Nagamasa's plan for victory is suicidal.
The face of a person drifted through Naotsune's mind.
Naotsune: I must disguise myself as an Oda officer, get close to Oda, and cut him down.
Naotsune: Whether I succeed or fail, I shall surely be slain by his guards. But I'll have no regrets.
Naotsune looked at his hand and clenched his fist.
Naotsune: I must do it to protect my naive lord Nagamasa.
Tragedy at Odani
The Azai and Asakura continued to press the attack on Oda. However, they were unable to defeat him conclusively.
The Asakura disintegrated under Oda's fierce assault and were annihilated, and the Azai were cornered.
Nagamasa Azai barricaded himself in Odani Castle and made final preparations in hopes of resisting the assault.
MC and Hanbei Takenaka came to the Azai to advise Nagamasa to capitulate.
Hanbei: Nagamasa, we come as Oda's representatives.
Nagamasa: MC is with you Hanbei? It's been a long time since we've seen each other.
Nagamasa: It was you two who saw through Naotsune's plan at Anegawa.
Hanbei: I've wronged you, I suppose.
Nagamasa: Even if Naotsune's plan succeeded, and Nobunaga had been killed, it would not have brought me any closer to the realization of my vision.
Hanbei: Though you have done much for me in the past, I have come to advise you to surrender.
Nagamasa: Then you've come in vain. You are, after all, Oda's retainers.
Hanbei: Please, Nagamasa, surrender. You don't have to die here.
Nagamasa: Hanbei, MC, I appreciate your concern for my well-being. But I cannot surrender.
Hanbei: Why not?
Nagamasa: My vision is incompatible with the path Nobunaga has chosen.
Hanbei: Yes... What was that? To seek a world of peace where we can all live in peace and safety?
Hanbei, clutching his chest, drew nearer.
Hanbei: Please, Nagamasa. Even if I, or anyone, promised to help realize your vision, you still wouldn't surrender, would you?
The shadow of a smile crossed Nagamasa's face as he stood.
Hanbei: So that's it. Of course.
Nagamasa: I have a request, for old times' sake. I want you to take Oichi and my three daughters with you.
Hanbei: Is it because you don't want to entangle them in your death?
Nagamasa: I would never want that. This will be my final battle. If I am victorious, and the world is mine, I will come for them.
Hanbei: Dim though I may be, you needn't lie. You said so yourself, this will be your final battle.
Nagamasa: I leave my wife and daughters in your care, Hanbei.
Hanbei: I understand, Nagamasa. I will honor your wish.
Hanbei departed. Only Nagamasa and MC remained.
Nagamasa: MC, I suppose this is farewell.
>>I will remain by your side until the end!
Nagamasa: My selfishness binds you to my side, is that what you mean?
Nagamasa: If you wish to help me, then hear my request.
>>I pray for your safety.
Nagamasa: Once some time has passed, please give this to Oichi. I entrust this to you and you alone.
Nagamasa: This a rosette Oichi gave to me It contains so many tranquil thoughts and memories of Oichi.
Nagamasa: That's why I cannot lose it here. If you wish to provide me some measure of solace, please give it to Oichi.
Nagamasa handed MC a small rosette.
Nagamasa: MC, you are a true friend.
Nagamasa: It was a joy to have known you. Farewell.
Nagamasa entered the Main Keep alone.
MC met Hanbei, and together they left Odani Castle behind.
Hanbei: A peaceful world, where we can all live in peace and safety. Is it possible?
Hanbei: Like Nagamasa, I hoped that we could build that world. I truly did.
Nagamasa's Legacy
Ten years after Nagamasa's death, Oichi died at Shizugatake.
MC held the rosette that Nagamasa had entrusted to him.
Nagamasa and Oichi had three daughters.
>>Give the rosette to Chacha, the eldest.
MC called on Chacha to give her the rosette.
As Chacha grasped the rosette, she wept bitterly as she wailed her parents' names.
Chacha: I have received my father's dreams and vision for the world.
Chacha: I will continue the proud traditions of my Azai and Oda blood, and never let them die. I will do everything I can to make father's dream a reality.
Chacha: MC, though I am without power or influence, will you be my ally?
Chacha clutched the rosette tightly as she spoke.
MC patted Chacha gently on the back and departed.
>>Give the rosette to Ohatsu, the middle daughter.
MC called on Ohatsu to give her the rosette.
As Ohatsu took the rosette in her hand, she closed her eyes, and called her parents' names.
Hatsu: Mother and Father, I have received this rosette and will serve as a bridge connecting people.
Hatsu: Even the slightest misstep can spiral out of control, creating enemies and a world of strife.
Hatsu: Father and Mother sought to act as mediators, in the hopes of creating a lasting peace.
Ohatsu clutched the rosette tightly as she spoke.
MC patted Ohatsu gently on the back and departed.
>>Give the rosette to Ogō, the youngest.
MC called on Ogō to give her the rosette.
When Ogō received the rosette, she smiled faintly.
Gō: I'm sorry, I don't even remember my father's face. I was just an infant when my father died.
Gō: But the face of my mother, who later married Katsuie, I will never forget.
Gō: She was a strong woman. She was always forward looking. I will never forget her.
Gō: I recall looking at the backs of my stepfather and my mother. I want children to see my strong back as I look ahead. I want to connect them with the world.
Ogō clutched the rosette as she spoke.
MC patted Ogō gently on the back and departed.