NationStates Jolt Archive

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IC:

Echigo Province, Oni Castle

The new dawn was bright over the mountain, its rays shining out over the large green fields and the city that they surrounded. The city was dominated by the castle that sat on the large hill side, the castle donjon’s (keep) five levels sat squat on their stone base, the walls of the castle quietly patrolled by samurai retainers.

Lord Nagao Tamekage sat on his small seating futon on the top of the dais in his large audience room. Six of his bodyguards sat cross legged in neat rows along the walls on either side. Seated in front and bowing low before Tamekage was his 3rd son, Kagetora.

“My Lord, the last report I received from Omi-san was that the last of the Uesugi clan members have been subdued. The battle did not take long, and we collected over 600 heads. Only Uesugi Norimasa is alive and has taken over the last of the clan. He wishes peace and asks with great humbleness to become your honored vassal,” said Kagetora. He kept himself bowed until his father roughly nodded, then he raised his head and sat still.

“Very good, very good,” Tamekage said. He smiled inwardly; glad to finally be rid of his old enemy, Uesugi. “Tell Norimasa-san that he is given the right to become my vassal. He is to come here to Oni Castle within a week to make his commitment, and once done he is to send messengers with his seal on the declaration throughout Echigo, so that it will be known that I now have full control.” He huffed and slapped his hand on his thigh. He smiled openly this time, and then brought the small cup of sake he had had in his hand up to his lips and drank from it.

A small maid entered through a shoji door near the dais and came in bearing a tray with two sake bottles, a small bowl of rice, and a small plate of charcoaled eel. Tamekage smiled and then waved a dismissal to his son. “Kagetora-san, send the message before the mid-day and then see to it that my generals are brought here tonight, and my chief magistrate, I will be making some changes,” Tamekage said. The maid set the tray down next to the dais and bowed low, first to Tamekage, then to Kagetora. She raised up then set the food tray before Tamekage who picked up his chop-sticks and began eating slowly. The maid poured him another cup of sake.

Dismissed, Kagetora bowed, then stood, he walked backwards for 6 yards, then turned and went to the far end shoji door. It opened and two guards there sat on either side. One offered up his long killing sword which, by custom, he was forced to leave here before entering the room of the Lord Nagao. He took it then moved on through the halls, going over in his head his father’s orders.

OOC: No time to post right now. Will post later.

OOC - Since I am the leader of a 'Ronin' Clan, I should have the right to assassinate without reason/contracts, no?

--

Mutsuhito (Made-up name, sorry) sat on the ground with his fellow members. The sun was rising, giving light in the forest they had sat in. Soon, as the light became stronger while the darkness was hiding, one of the members sitting poured water over the fire they had built last night.

Mutsuhito, the Leader of the Clan and the most skilled with superior Leadership and Academic as well as Fighting/Esponiage Abilites, was in a meditating-style form with his back straight and perfect posture. The other four were sitting the same way in a circle while Mutsuhito was at the head of the group and circle.

The Ninja's had learned to only recieve three hours of sleep maximum, for they were Assassins and were always wanted dead by many. They would take shifts on guarding at night so they could recieve sleep at night.

The Onmitsu Oniwabanshu Group Ninja Clan was spread all over Japan, with Mutushito as the leader. Mutsuhito had his code name, "Kuro Tsurugi" which meant "Dark Sword" in Japanese. However, no one knew his actual name, which was Mutsuhito Kanazawa. Mutsuhito also didn't worry about his clan for he knew his clan was "perfect" because there was an excellent Communication System Link between all Clan Members wherever they were.

As the Sun came up in its routinely basis, Mutsuhito signaled his members to stand up by breaking a twig with his hand. He never spoke, and used signs to communicate, no one knew why.

His whole group, which consisted of the most skilled Ninja's in the clan, was currently traveling through the Kozuke Province to the Echigo Province, where a new Daimyo was rising. However, Mutsuhito had no plans to assassinate whatsoever, he wanted to observe activities there and know about how life was. Even though it was morning, His clan did not eat, for they practiced tolerance of many things, including Hunger

Mutuhito and his group walked through the dense forest which connected the Kozuke and Echigo Province while the Sun rose up. Along-side the dense forest, was a trail that merchants and people would travel on, but since it was highly dangerous for Ninja's to walk in open areas without a disguise, Mutsuhito and his clan would walk in dense, lonely areas.

OOC: Yes you can do that MasterMind, but alert the Tenno via e-mail first.

IC:

The long meeting hall was filled with about twenty men. All dressed in their best silk kimonos, their indiviual symbols of their Houses were present, as well as the Nagao clan emblem, showing their loyalty to the House of Nagao.

Each sat with their long killing sword, the katana, next to him and with their short short neatly pushed into their sashes. Each was a general of Nagao Tamekage, and hatamoto, an honored and special retainer of the daimyo and had special capabilties that went with the title.

Kagetora sat at the end, where a dais with an emtpy cushion was for his father, along with Souchiro Omi-san, one of Tamekage's most experianced and loyal retainers.

"Ah Kagetora-san, your father is never this late for a council meeting," Omi said. He scratched his chin and looked around the room. Several of the generals nodded their agreement.

"The Lord, my father, had pressing business earlier Omi-san. I am sorry if he is late, but then the Lord may come when he comes, but we will still be here and waiting patiently, neh?" asked Kagetora.

"Hai, your right of course, I meant no insult or meaning that he was late. It is simply that I wonder what he will do with Uesugi." Omi had left the san, a title of respect off the name. Omi and several other of the generals in the room had only just gotten back to Oni Castle for the meeting, having finally crushed all opposition in the Echigo province on behalf of Nagao Tamekage.

Suddenly the shoji doors behind the dais opened, and Tamekage entered. All the generals immediately bowed. Tamekage walked onto the dais and sat down, he bowed back. The generals raised up and looked at him. A man wearing the robes of a magistrate entered as well behind and the shoji door slid shut. The man sat down to the left of Lord Tamekage and bowed to the assembled generals.

"Welcome old friend and comrades," said Tamekage. "I am glad that you all arrived swiftly. For this meeting is important. For I have decided a new course for our clan." All eyes instantly widened and every one of the generals concentrated.

"I Nagao Tamekage noh Fujimoto, will become Shogun," he said simply. All the generals sat silent, some in slight shock, others in determiniation. All of them knew that the lsat Ashikaga Shogun had died over 20 years previously, and since all the daimyo's of Japan had strived for the position. But as yet, not one had come close.

"And right now, I have brought Doshu-san here," he motioned tot he magistrate. " So that we can record what I will say and for the adjustment of the army and its expansion. For to attain what I want, I need more men."

"Nagao-sama," said Omi-san. " I am proud and honored that you will seek the throne of Shogun, and I will fight and die for you until you have achieved that goal. However, how can we raise such an army to do this? Are there not other daimyo seeking the same?"

Tamekage smiled and nodded. "That is true old friend. There are others seeking the Shogunate. However, we have the resources and power to raise more troops and I have come up with a strategy that will win me the position of Shogun." Tamekage motioned to the magistrate. The man bowed again.

"At this time the province of Echigo provides my lord with some 375,000 koku each year. 187,500 of which can be used for military expenses," Doshu-san said. "These so far has the lord decreed:

"20,000 Archers are to be raised and trained, at a cost of 40,000 koku. 15,000 more samurai foot soldiers will be raised and trained at a cost of 60,000 koku. And a force of 500 mounted heavy calvary samurai will be raised and trained for cost of 4,000 koku.

"Because the lord is interested in a Navy as well, our shipyards will construct 50 Seki-bune medium craft, and 100 Oadake-bune large craft, all for a cost of 35,000 koku.

"Thus the lord will have spent 135,000 koku to train and build, and in the eyars to come will cost 67,500 koku to maintain this force," said Doshu-san with finality.

The seated generals were awed by the massive amounts of spending and men. "My Lord, how soon will you order these things, and who will command them?" asked one general.

"Within the year they will be trained, and the ships will take at most two years, maybe three. Is that not right Doshu-san?" asked Tamekage, he turned and looked at the scribe.

"Hai Nagao-sama, that they will. This also leaves us with 52,500 koku in the treasury."

"Good, good. Now, I will explain my strategy!" said Tamekage. The generals sat in the council long into the night and did not finish the meeting until the dawn of the next day.

Hojo Sokomu was writing a poem in the throne room of his Keep in Odawara. He dipped his quill in the ink and slowly drew a character across the sheet of paper. A great way to take your mind of things. he thought. One must forget the tiring bussines of governing once in a while.The Hojo clan was an ancient one, well...*he chuckled* if you forget that my family took the name long ago. (ooc. There was a Hojo clan and a Late Hojo Clan. The Late one was the clan during SJ) He looked at the sticks. he then stood up and packed his writing equipment. he had called ameeting to discuss the further strategy to his secret goal, Shogun of Japan, Land of the Gods!

A few moments later a guard called from the other side of the Shoji.

Guard:"My lord Agukame Nisu-San and Fuku Sabo-San have arrived."
Sokomu:*partly drawing out his sword*:"Let them in!"

Once he saw it really were his trusted advisors he relaxed and slipped his sword back in the scabbard. Old Nisu-San saw this and chuckled.

Nisu:"Hehehe. always ready for any situation, my lord?"
Sokomu:"As always old friend. And how are you, Fuku-San?"
Fuku:"Good, praise Buddha! He has given me good health."
Sokomu:"Perfect old friend. Let's start right away. The current income of Hojo's provinces totals 135 000 Koku. I think it is reasonable to say that 67500 Koku is for military expenses. I've writen the following down. *takes two scrolls from his sleeve and gives one to each advisor* Tke the time to look it over.


17500 Archers at 17500 Koku
17500 Spearmen at 17500 Koku
15000 Foot Samurai at 30000 Koku
500 Heavy Mounted Samurai at 2500 Koku

Total: 50500 warriors at a cost of 67500 Koku

Nisu looked up from the scroll and said in a neutral voice.

Nisu:"Nice force you mustered here, my lord. But why this increase?"
Sokomu:"I will say it very simple. I want to attack Mushashi and Suruga. Attack them and conquer them. Hojo needs more income, a larger army and expend. At the cost of other clans of course..."
Fuku:"Takeda will protest..."
Sokomu:"O, they may protest, nothing more. Nisu-San, you'll command the army that'll invade Musashi. I will lead the other force into Suruga. Fuku, you'll take care of the Hojo clan and protect it with a small force and act as a reserve."
Fuku and Nisu in Unison:"Hai, my lord."

The bowed and left the room. Sokomu looked out of a window and sighed. Would Hojo return to power?

Nisu Force-under Command of Nisu
7500 Archers
7500 Spearmen
5000 Foot Samurai
200 Mounted Samurai

Hojo Force-Under Command of Sokomu
8000 Archers
7500 Spearmen
8000 Foot Samurai
300 Mounted Samurai

Fuku Force-Under Command of Fuku
1500 Archers
2000 Spearmen
2000 Foot Samurai

ooc. Maybe it's usefull to make stats about Nisu and Fuku too...

Nobuhide sat brooding in his private room, a map drawn carefully of all the provinces of Japan upon it. He looked down at Owari, the province he ruled, but did not rule. For the past few years one of Nobuhide’s cousins and an uncle, and even his younger brother Nobumitsu was causing problems within the clan.

“I will have to do something with them,” he said to himself. He leaned back and thought of happier things. His wife was with child! Ok ho! Nobuhide hoped that Buddha would give him a boy. He was suddenly disturbed by a small rap-knock on the nearby shoji door.

“Yes?” he asked, he held his sword ready in his hands.

“It is I Lord, Hirate Masahide,” said a voice.

“Enter,” Nobuhide said. He relaxed when he saw that it was indeed Masahide. “Masahide-san, I am glad you came.”

“I was summoned my Lord, and I am here to serve.” Masahide moved into the room and then bowed to Nobuhide, who acknowledge it, then he sat still. “How may I serve my Lord?” Masahide was 49 years old, he had served under Nobuhide’s grandfather as a youth and then under Nobuhide’s father, then him. He was one of the most loyal and wise retainers in the Oda Clan.

“I need your council old friend,” said Nobuhide. He took out a scroll and handed it to Masahide, who bowed as he took it from Oda. On it was a list of names.

“These are all of the Oda family members who have made it impossible for you to properly govern Owari my Lord. What will you have me do?” asked Masahide.

“Tell my brother Nobumitsu into the Void and tell my cousin Naga-san that he is to commit seppuku as well, but before that he is to take the head of his wife, my niece,” said Nobuhide. “They have all troubled my House for too long.”

“Of course Lord. Anything else my Lord Oda?” the old man asked. He noticed Nobuhide fingering the map in front of him.

“Yes, send a messenger to Lord Yamato, of the Shima Province that I wish to formally invite him here to Anotsu Castle were I wish to discuss an alliance with him. I understand that he is not a powerful lord and yet desires conquest. I want to conquer Ise, but I cannot by myself, not if I leave Owari open to attack from the North from either Takeda or Imagawa.”

“I understand my Lord. I will do so immediately,” said Masahide. The old man bowed and left.

Nobuhide took out another scroll and looked down at it. It was an official notice that raised an army of 40,000 ashigaru spearmen for the Oda Army. It would cost Nobuhide nearly all of his 45,000 military koku budget, but he needed the army.

OOC: Secret meeting, more to come later.

-------------------
Yamato had just finished his meditation outside his home in the peaceful garden when two officals from the local town govenment came to him.

"Lord Yamato, may I speak with you?" asked a tall man, draped in ceremonial robes, like he had just came from a celebration. The second man bowed so close to the ground that his hat on his head looked as if it would surely fall off.

Yamato nodded and stated, "You may."

The first man bowed and said, "My Lord, you honor me. I wish to speak to you about matters most grave."

The second man, the servant, bowed and left Lord Yamato and Tomori Rin (his master) silently.

Yamato and Tomori walked into the beautiful garden with a shallow pond and a small zen garden. They spoke slowly and calmly, but it was idle chat with a soft sense of fear under the informal speak.

"First, my old friend, how has life been treating you."

Yamato laughed and said calmly, "Wonderful so far, I have yet to marry, but all things in good time."

Tomori smiled and asked another question, "The town looks so beautiful, I haven't seen such a beautiful display of color and sweet fragrance in years. I can sense this is your doing..."

"Tomori...I can sense you aren't being truthful to me, what bothers you?"

Tomori looked up at the sky and sighed, "Japan has become a dangerous place, one can sense it in the very air. A cloud of warfare and suffering spreads across the land, consuming everyone it touches. I suggest you prepare for hard times if you do not heed my words. Whispers of the north and the west say that the cherry blossoms never came, the spirits of our ancestors appears more and more troubled in my dreams. We to must prepare for war."

Yamato and Rin came to the lake's edge, they watched for a few minutes, both in deep thought. Until at last a bug flew over the water and a small Koi popped up and ate the bug. Yamato pointed out the fish and said with great wisdom, "See how the fish attacks with great surprise, the unsuspecting fly is oblivious to his doom until it is too late. They each have their own domain...the fish to the water, the fly to the sky, when one comes to close to the other, fate takes over and only the swift and paticent can overcome an enemy."

Flies and dragonflies take flight and go into the air all at once.

"You see one battle....the others now know the fish is there, all the fish will now go hungry, all because he acted alone. Together they all could have had an easy meal."

Yamato laughed, "Yes, but fish are not men. I shall take your advice."

----------------

At the coming of the Echigo Province, Kuro Tsurugi and his group finally exited the Kozuke Province and entered the Echigo Province. Kuro Tsurugi walked with determination, as so did his group.

Upon continuosly walking, Kuro Tsurugi finally stopped by a small stream, picked up a twig that he sharpened with his blade, and with sheer concentration, shot it in the water and stabbed a fish. After taking it out, Kuro Tsurugi made hand signals and immediately, two of the members began working on making fire while the other two were catching fish.

After eating, the group got up, and made they're way East to the Capital of the Echigo Province. They were to arrive there in one day (real life). In return, a messenger from the group was sent to inform each group where they were heading as well as find out where the others were heading.

Sitting at a table in a teahouse, Hisoka let out a soft sigh as he sipped his tea. When he finished, he paid and left. Walking out of the village that was on the edge of the Ise province, he pulled out a scroll and skimmed over its content. 'Hmm...Yamato clan. This could be interesting,' he thought as he read over the report that one of his genin handed to him while he was at the teahouse. Walking over to a tree, he reached into it and pulled out some clothing and tossed some dirt onto it. Quickly changing his clothes, Hisoka soon ressembled a Buddhist monk. Leaning on his walking staff as if having made a long journey, he began his journey to Shima. From his estimates, he should be able to arrive there in a day or so.

The messenger with a ten samurai escort, all bearing the flag of an Oda Clan herald crossed into the province of Shima, the domain of Lord Yamato. For many ri (ooc:japanese miles) they met no one and continued on the path to the capital of Shima, where Lord Yamato was bound to be.

When turning a bend they were met by a group of samurai, they bore the signet of the Yamato clan. They where all well armed and waiting. One, the captain came forward and held out his hand for the messenger to stop.

"Halt! What is your name and purpose here in Shima province?" The man asked. The messenger got down from his horse and bowed to the Captain, who bowed back as was designated.

"I am Asano Ukisaga, I am a messenger from my Lord Oda," said Ukisaga. The captain nodded and continued the ritual of formal greeting.

"How may I help you Asano-san?" he asked formally.

"I have a message for Lord Yamato from my Lord Oda Nobuhide. Can you guide me to his capital?" asked Ukisaga.

"Hai, Asano-san, I can. I will, but first I request that you rest, you and your mounts are tired. There is a small village only a few ri down the road. I will take you there and you can rest from your journey," said the captain. He had orders to hold anyone entering Shima and to report them to Lord Yamato. But because he was a messenger from another important daimyo, the captain thought to be courtious.

"Yes thankyou captain, yes it would be nice to rest," said Ukisaga. He bowed, the captain bowed back, and he returned to his horse. The Yamato samurai led the messenger line on.

Tamekage sat on the tatami matted floor of the tea house, enjoying the fresh air around him. He sat in a small tea house that was located outside the castle. Guards ringed it at fourty paces away, watching everywhere, always alert. Tamekage simply ignored them.

"There is nothing between Thou and It, all this is but an Illusion." He thought to himself. He felt like a blanket of eternal peacefullness had settled on him, then he breathed deeply, enjoying the sensation.

A small sound brought him out of his revelry. A man, clothed in black and kneeling several paces away hidden in the bush bowed low. "Tamekage-sama, I bring you urgent news," said the man. It was one of Tamekage's many spies, though not very often did he see one, when normally they communicated by pidgeon message.

"Nani des-ka?" What is it he asked. The man bowed again.

"My Lord, our spies report that the Lord Hojo has begun marching into the province of Suruga, and we believe Mushashi as well. They have been mobilized for some weeks. As far as we know, the Lord Hojo has gone into Suruga."

Tamekage was rocked to his feet. For the Hojo clan to make such a move was indeed agressive, quite unlike them when in the past they had been content to sit behind their high castles.

"Very well, highten the watch on Suruga and watch the campaign. I want to know all that happens," Tamekage said.

"Yes Lord, I live and Obey," the shinobi said, then disapeared.

"Kagetora-san!" called Tamekage. His son, who was sitting as part of his guard came forward. He kneeled and bowed.

"Hai Nagao-sama?" he asked.

"You are to go and mobilize your men for the invasion of Etchu. On your way out of the castle inform Omi-san that I wish to see him," said Tamekage.

"Hai my lord, arigato for this oppertunity to serve you," said Kagetora, he bowed low to his father. His father had, when the troops had been raised in the early spring, that 7,000 samurai footmen and 10,000 archers would be under Kagetora's command. The honor bestowed upon him had been great. And now the honor of this was even more.

"Thank you Lord." Kagetora bowed again then left. Tamekage turned to a small tray beside him where his small cup was. He gentley took it and sipped on his cha, watching as his son road his horse down the path to the cstle beyond.

OOC: Tenno Announcement: The current month is February and Japan has an early spring. All those daimyo's that raised troops, their forces are now raised and trained.

Hojo Clan: Your invasion of Suruga and Mushashi is unaposed. Within the next two days I will be using the kenware's dice simlator to determine your success, I will e-mail you the results of them, and then announce them to the other players. They will determine your success in both.

Lord Takeda was pleased. KAi province was now empty of roving bandits. Ronin had either been absorved into his army or driven off. Now was the time for him to expand the power of the Takeda clan and dominate Nippon. Only recently his wife had born him a son! He smiled, thinking of the small child, currently underthe watch of several hand-maidens.

He was sitting in is private room, enjoying a cup of tea and examing the recruitment orders he had issued to his generals and retainers. He had ordered them to raise an army of 3,000 mounted samurai, 16,000 archers, 15,000 spearmen, and 10,000 samurai on foot.

[OOC:

3,000 mounted samurai-15,000 koku
16,000 archers-16,000 koku
15,000 spearmen-15,000 koku
10,000 samurai of foot-20,000

TOTAL: 66,000 koku]

As always, he would depend on his cavalry. Kai province had excellent horses. He smiled to himself and sipped his tea. Soon the Takeda clan would be a power to be reckoned with...

There was a quiet tap on the door.

"Hai?"

One of the ever-present guards slid the door open and bowed.

"My Lord, a messanger has arrived he brings urgent news."

Takeda frowned. What kind of news could this messanger bring?

"Send him in."

The guard nodded and motioned to someone outside. The messanger, divested of his swords, entered and bowed low before speaking.

"Daimyo, the Hojo clan has invaded the province of Suruga to the south with a great army. The local lords will not be able to hold them off."

Takeda dismissed the guard with a nod and sent a messanger for his general's a military campaign would have to be planned, in case the Hojo got above themselves. In the meantime, he would secure the province to the east as soon as possible: Sagami. He ordered another messenger to ride west, to Shinano and contact the Murakami, asking them for an alliance.

Lord Murakami Muramoto sat silently, contmeplating the blank page of paper in front of him. He was attempting to write poetry, but inspiration had failed ot find it;s mark in the young daimyo. He reached forward to pick up the brush and begin writing, than paused and shook his head. No, that would not do for an opening line...He was startled as a soft rapping came from outside. He turned, vaguely annoyed.

"Yes?"

One of his bodyguards, 6 of which remained outside his private rooms at all times, while 3 others sat in a hidden chamber inside the daimyo's room itself, slid the door open and bowed.

"My lord, Mutsumori Abe is here to speak to you."

"Let him, in quickly!"

The guard nodded and moved to one side, allowing Abe to enter the room. He was an older man, nearly 60 but in excellent health, who had advised Muramoto's father, and now served the young lord. He bowed deeply, and knelt on the tatami flooring.

"Make your report, please."

"My lord, your orders that an army be raised in order to more effectively defned our province have been carried out. We now have 2,500 samurai who are able to provide mounts in their service to you, a further 8,000 samurai who are able to provide their own armor and to fight on foot, 20,000 ashigaru armed with spears have been raised, as well as 15,000 archers. In addition, your houshold guard as been expanded from 50 samurai to 200, as you ordered."

"Excellent. Is there any news from beyond our borders that should be brought to my attention?"

"Yes, noble lord. I am afraid that our spies report that the Hojo plan to invade Suruga and Mushashi provinces."

"This is alarming news! I hope that they're ambition will not spread to Shinanoo province. Make sure that these armies are watched, and send a messenger to Lord Nagao Tanekage...say that we are both threatened by thsi move, and that I hope our two clans can becoem closer friends."

"Hai. I will do this."

"Thank you Mutusmori-san. You may go."

The retainer bowed again and left, going to dispatch the message to Lord Nagao.

OOC:

Forces:

2,500 Mounted Samurai-10,000 koku
8,000 Foot Samurai-16,000 koku
20,000 ashigaru(Spearmen)-20,000 koku
15,000 Archers-15,000 koku
Total: 61,000 Koku

Omi-san entered and bowed before Lord Tamekage who sat in his audiance room. Tamekage acknowledged the bow and again sipped on his small cup of sake.

"You sent for me my Lord?" asked Omi. He had been told by Kagetora earlier in the day that the Lord wished to see him. Kagetora had been dressed in his full armor and heavily armed. Regiments of his samurai had also been like-wise suited and dressed, large numbers had been marching out of the castle assembling on the marching ground before the castle gates.

"Omi-san, my Lord wishes to see you at the Hour of the Dog," he had said. Omi nodded back to him.

"Where do you do Kagetora-san?" asked Omi.

"I am launching the invasion of Etchu. I am marching with all my retainers to the border. It will be good to fight once again," said Kagetora, he had been ordered not to involve himself in the battles against Uesugi and had not gotten the chance to prove himself.

"Don't worry Kagetora-san, I have full confidence in you. Fair weather and a steady hand to you," said Omi, he bowed to Kagetora who bowed back, honored by the rare compliment. Then he had road off with his bodyguard and his army of 17,000 men had marched south along the Echu Road.

Omi raised hmself and sat in front of Tamekage. "Yes I did send for you old friend," said Tamekage. He related the news he had been told by his shinobi spy. Omi was also shocked by the news.

"Hojo is taking a heavy care into their hands," said Omi, he began thinking about the possibilities. "Do you know my lord of how any other daimyo have acted to these new campaigns?" Omi asked.

"No, but I recieved a message from my border guard saying that a messenger was on his way here to Oni Castle from Lord Murakami of Shinano. Other than that, I don't know. Takeda must know somthing," said Tamekage. It was a long standing fued between the Takeda clan and Nagao-Uesugi clans, at one time in the psat before the war between Nagao and Uesugi, the two clans had actually united to fight the Takeda, but nothing had ever come from the war but a stalemate and both sides had backed away.

"Omi-san, you are to go to Doshu-san and order him to raise a further 40,000 ashigaru spearmen," said Tamekage. Omi's eyes widened.

"My Lord, that will lower our military treasury to-"

"To about 10,000 koku left, so what? I want a strong army, and I need more troops. Besides if the Oda Clan has such large numbers of them then I will also, have them raised."

Omi bowed. "Yes Lord, I understand. I will do immediately."

"Yes, and also you are to greet the messenger from Lord Murakami when he arrives here, I would like an alliance if possible."

"Of course my Lord," said Omi. He bowed again, then left. Tamekage sipped his sake again and smiled. Things were going well thus far, he thought.

A messenger appeared infront of Yamato's gate. Escorted by a samurai. Yamato came out to greet the foreign diplomat and smiled at the young man.

"What business you have for me? I'll address you, but first I wish to know your name and why you have come hither."

Kuro Tsurugi and his group finally reached the Capital of the Echigo Province as commoners. Kuro' had a serious and strict face while he had two daggers underneath the large, one-piece cloth around him, like his group.

Kuro and his group walked among the vast Merchant Road, where the road was lined up by many, many shops and people buying and selling. Kuro' had around 60 koku with him -- he wasn't fond with wealth, which he only believed that money should be used for food, clothes and equipment.

As his group walked among the large crowds, much laughter and talking was heard as tea-houses were full and cafe's along with restaurants were releasing the scent of steamed rice, chicken and fish.

Finally, Kuro' signaled his group to split up, and the spot he made the signal was the spot where they would re-group after dusk. His group scattered as Kuro himself headed towards the Oni Castle, mentally mapping out the whole City.

Kuro' thought the Province, especially the City, was very beautiful. With large docks and ships brining in fish and some illegal trade, and many beautiful Temples and houses, with many merchant shops and people, it was just City Beauty.

Kuro walked calmly ahead, he eventually saw a large castle not far away, and he would observe it right outside its area.

Finally, as Kuro reached the spot where he could no longer get closer to the Castle, he observed it very, very carefully. From the windows to the ledges, from the door to the roof, from the moat to the wood that was used on some parts.

The reason being was he might have some interests in it.

Hyuga territory, Agata castle


Ito Sukemitsu sat in front of two other men, both were middle aged men although one was obviously a warrior by his dress and build while the other was dressed as a monk.
The warrior was the man who lead Sukemitsu's army, Agachi Takai by name, the other man was named Tochimaru, an Ito spy by trade although that was known only to a handful of men, to all others he was Sata the monk, one of Sukemitsu's conversation partners nothing more and nothing less.
"It would appear a new chain of battles are about to begin, the Hojo are already invading and more and more clans are readying their forces each days passing" Tochimaru said and quietly sipped his tea.
"Indeed, perhaps we should follow their example and prepare an army of our own. The Higo lands would add a great deal of wealth to your treasury, or perhaps the Kimotsuki or Otomo clans would be easier to subdue" suggested Agachi.
"You make a good point, the Higo territory would perhaps be too powerful to take as we are now, but the Otomo clan has little more than half the Koku to spend on an army and the Kimotsuki have even less" mused Sukemitsu.
"Send out the order to prepare an army, the Otomo clan and Bungo province will be our target" Sukemitsu continued "Agachi I want a hundred thousand men for this invasion, be free with koku but spend no more than 160 000."
"Hai" Agachi said with a nod and headed out the room as a serving man handed him his Tachi which he wore on a cord from his belt, it was an old fashioned custom but one he held with a sense of individuality.
"The Otomo have not been very active of late but this may rouse them out of their non-activity, I will report anything I find amiss, now I must be going, I am due to head down to Osumi again, one of my agents has not been keeping communications going, I fear he may have been killed, by your leave my lord?" Tochmaru asked.
"Very well, good fortune to you" Sukemitsu said and the spy departed.
Sukemitsu poured himself another cup of tea and thought for a moment, he didn't seek a particular long term goal but one thing he wanted was to have no enemies too close to home, that meant the Otomo, Kimotsuki, Aso, Kikuchi, Sagara and Shimazu clans would all have to be defeated and conquered.It would likely involve a lot of bloody battles and many men meeting their death but if it all came to fruit it would be worth it.
After the defeat of his powerful rivals had been achieved he may as well attempt to assume a position of dominance over all Kyushu, he hoped that the next few years would see his rise to the most powerful Daimyo in Japan.
Sukemitsu sat for a moment and indulged his fantasy of greatness while the sun rode high in the sky

Meanwhile General Agachi Takia was at work talking to his sub-commanders.
"Sukemitsu want an army that big huh? It'll be tough but we should be able to do it the times ripe for battle" one said.
Agachi sighed and moved on passing out orders to begin bringing the army together, it would take some time before the news spread across Hyuga and some more time yet before the troops were ready and trained for battle.

OOC:
Agachi's 160,000 koku Army.

70,000 ashigaru spearmen (70 000 koku)
50,000 archers (50 000 koku)
10,500 foot samurai (21,000 koku)
1,000 mounted samurai. (4000 koku)
5,000 mounted warriors (15 000 koku)

Oni Castle, Echigo Province

A small cloudof dust that had been hovering in the distance down the road finally resolved itself into a small party of horsemen. 4 mounted men trotted up to the castle gate, hailing the samurai guards that stood there. One man spoke.

"I am Hirumoto Jiro. I come bearing a message from my ord, Murakami Muramoto. Will you allow me to enter?"

OOC: Tenno Announcement - As of November 22, 2005 all current raising of troops will be complete.

Hojo Clan battles: Mushashi The defenders of the province of Mushashi have been beaten and the remnants scattered to become filthy bandits and ronin. Your army now has control of the province, however it is wise and according to the rules (unless you want rebellion) to keep a garrison there. You will start recieving the benefits of this conquest in the next 'year'.

Suruga: The defenders of the province of Suruga successfully defended your first attack, causing you to lose 2,380 men. They have also successfully escaped the field and retreated to offer further resistance. You may choose to continue with your present forces, or wait and reinforce.

IC:

Nagao Harukage, Tamekage's eldest son, stood before the messenger from Lord Murakami.

"I am Hirumoto Jiro-san. I come bearing a message from my lord, Murakami Muramoto-sama. Will you allow me to enter?" the man asked. Harukage frowned at the messenger's lack of manners to get down from his horse, but was satisfied when the man got down with his escort and bowed slightly lower than the norm.

"Konichiwa Hirumoto Jiro-san. May I see your message papers?" Harukage asked politely. The messenger nodded and took out from his sash a folded piece of rice paper. Harukage bowed slightly to the Murakami emblem to show respect to the daimyo, then opened it. The characters were well written and proclaimed the man Hirumoto as an official messenger of Lord Murakami, and was marked with the lord's seal.

"Ah, very well Hirumoto-san, if you will kindly follow me," said Harukage. He motioned to some of his men who took the horses and led them to the enarby stables jsut past the gate.

Harukage marched down the road, the four Murakami men behind, and then followed by 10 other Nagao samurai. They came to the inner wall of the city, where the castle was. They were stopped by a captain of the guard, and Harukage was forced to show his passage papers. They walked through the gate and over a large bridge that spanned 40 yards of moat that seperated the first wall and the second wall, a military ingenuity that Harukage's father had thought of: even if the outer wall's gate was breached, the defenders could burn the bridge and the outer wall could still offer resistance even though cut off.

They went through several more gates, each one facing at seperate angles, like a stair way of paths and gates. Finally they came to a large set of stairs. Guards lined the stairs, some armed with bows, others with spears, but all with their two swords. Once more the gate captain asked for Harukage's passage papers, then allowed them to pass.

Once inside the donjon (keep) Harukage took them to the 5th level. They came down a long wooden laquered hallway until they came to a shoji door with 6 guards outside it. Harukage came up to it and returned the bow of the captain of the guard sitting on duty there.

"I am here to see Lord Nagao concerning the arrival of emmisaries from Lord Murakami of Shinano," Harukage said. The captain nodded and asked him to wait. He opened the shoji and entered, then closed it behind him. After a moment he returned. He bowed and said they could enter.

The group entered another chamber, this one had 12 guards. Harukage relinquished his killing sword to a guard who set it on a large sword rack near the wall. Hirumoto-san also had his men and himself put their swords there. They came to the shoji doors and the guards opened them. Inside was the audiance chamber, it held 20 samurai sitting facing toward the door. At the end of the audiance chamber and sitting on the dais was Lord Nagao in his favourite silk kimono displaying his clans symbol. Five place mats for seating were before the dais.

All five of the men bowed then stepped into the room. Harukage took the seat closest to the right, while Hirumoto took another one, the closest to Lord Nagao.

"Greetings Lord Nagao of Echigo," said Hirumoto. "I am Hirumoto Jiro-san here to discuss with you matters pertaining to my Lord's thoughts."

"Indeed? Would you like some sake or cha first though?" asked Nagao, getting through with the formalities that ettiquet required.

"Yes, sake would be nice, our journey was long," said Hirumoto, also continueing the greeting formalities. A maid entered and served Hirumoto and his men sake, as well as Nagao and Harukage.

"Was your journey safe? No interferance with bandits or ronin?" asked Nagao.

"No Lord, we had no such hinderances."

"Thats good. And now, what is it that is on your lord's mind," said Nagao at the proper time, finishing the greeting requirement.


Outside the castle...(attn: TGM)

The samurai captain looked the man up and down again. "You were loitering and looking quite carefully at the castle, who are you?" the captain asked the man. The captain and a group of 10 samurai had been policing the streets when they had noticed the man standing there just looking at the castle. Since this was not something that anyone usually did, they followed their orders and surrouned him.

He was dressed as a merchant or farmer, not too rich seeming. But when he had his men search the man, they discovered 20 gold koban on him.

"Who are you?" he asked again. The man bowed.

"I am a messenger, a silent messenger, from a clan wishing to speak with the Lord Nagao," the man said. The captain huffed.

"I would take your head now, but I am forced to detain you for questioning," said the captain. Taking the man the 11 samurai escorted him to a large barracks building next to the main wall of the city. There they put the man in a small cell-like room, but not a real cell, as it was made of wood. Two guards were posted to his door.

"Lord Harukage will question you when he gets back from his duties in the castle," said the captain to the man, then he left the room, and locked the door behind him.

Army training ground, 15 ri from Agata castle

Sukemitsu inspected his samurai commanders and the army that was beginning to form, it would be several weeks yet before he had an army ready to march but he still wanted to see how it was progressing.
He walked flanked by a dozen samurai and a serving man, the serving man carried his sword, a massive odachi with a blade length of four skaku, Sukemitsu preferred the much larger sword and was one of a reletive few who knew how to effectivley use it, it would be a lot harder for an enemy to fight him when used to fighting an enemy with a sword almost half the length of his, the odachi was reletivley unadorned in a simple blach sheath with a silver decorated tsuba
On his belt Sukemitsu wore a wakizashi in an ornate black lacquered scabbard with red thread and silver decoration.
Samurai and ashigaru were hard at work speaking with the new recruits and instructing them on use of spears, others who were being called up were already able men and were being sent to one or another commander.
Horsemen rode by practicing formation and the thrum of bowstrings could be heard as archers fired at targets.
Nearby a new recruit let out a groan as one of Sukemitsu's ashigaru speam men hit him square in the gut with his bamboo bo and began to intruct him on the errors of keeping his guard too off balance.
Sukemitsu found Agachi and half a dozen other men sitting inside a light bamboo building on a pad of tatami mats, there were several maps of Kyushu and the Hyuga and Bungo provinces lain in front of them.

"If their army meets us here we can overpower them with ease but if they decide wait it out and spring an ambush on us here from two sides we could lose a lot of good men I think we'll be able to regroup and carry the day even if they get away from us" one man to Agachi's right said gesturing to the map of Bungo.

"Greetings my Lord" the man said bowing low to Sukemitsu, the others did likewise.

"Greetings Tekika, Agachi how fares our battle plans" Sukemitsu asked
indicating the maps.

"They go well, we have taken into account Otomo resistance and it isn't likely they will be able to bring together enough forces to repel us for long if at all Agachi said.

"Tekika will command the cavalry that will ride on our right flank and I will control the bulk of the army, while Tamora has a smaller army of twenty thousand ashigaru to cover our left flank, if the Otomo forces take us head on Tekika and Tamora will move forward and outflank them and if they try to take us side on we can re-orientate our army to face them while the attacked group falls back to the main body" Agachi continued gesturing on a smaller map where wooden pieces had been placed to represent possible scenarios.
Outside the bamboo building the sounds of preparation continued.

Hirumoto bows, and speaks. "Harukage-dono, my lord wishes to extend to you an offer of an alliance."

OOC: Crap post, sorry. I am in a hurry.

OOC: Just remember your talking to Tamekage, not Harukage his son. :p

IC:

Tamekage thought for a moment. An alliance with the Murakami clan would mean that he would be free to expand into Etchu, and perhaps even with some assistance from the Murakmai clan as well. Yes this could be a mutual help to each other.

"I would be honored to forge an alliance with the Lord Murakami and his clan. I am honored that Lord Murakami would consider me. I will of course send my son Husamato-san to meet with your Lord and help finish cementing such an alliance," said Tamekage. It was of course a safety device for daimyo to exchange members of their family, hostages in all but name, so as to safe guard form treachery.

"Lord Murakami would be pleased to recieve your son, he will undoubtable be able to put the small details of the alliance togethor," said Hirumoto.

Harukage bowed. "I am sorry to leave, but I have duties at this time," he said. He bowed again, and stood, then left the hall.

OOC: Tenno Announcement - As of November 22, 2005 all current raising of troops will be complete.

Hojo Clan battles: Mushashi The defenders of the province of Mushashi have been beaten and the remnants scattered to become filthy bandits and ronin. Your army now has control of the province, however it is wise and according to the rules (unless you want rebellion) to keep a garrison there. You will start recieving the benefits of this conquest in the next 'year'.

Suruga: The defenders of the province of Suruga successfully defended your first attack, causing you to lose 2,380 men. They have also successfully escaped the field and retreated to offer further resistance. You may choose to continue with your present forces, or wait and reinforce.

IC:

Nagao Harukage, Tamekage's eldest son, stood before the messenger from Lord Murakami.

"I am Hirumoto Jiro-san. I come bearing a message from my lord, Murakami Muramoto-sama. Will you allow me to enter?" the man asked. Harukage frowned at the messenger's lack of manners to get down from his horse, but was satisfied when the man got down with his escort and bowed slightly lower than the norm.

"Konichiwa Hirumoto Jiro-san. May I see your message papers?" Harukage asked politely. The messenger nodded and took out from his sash a folded piece of rice paper. Harukage bowed slightly to the Murakami emblem to show respect to the daimyo, then opened it. The characters were well written and proclaimed the man Hirumoto as an official messenger of Lord Murakami, and was marked with the lord's seal.

"Ah, very well Hirumoto-san, if you will kindly follow me," said Harukage. He motioned to some of his men who took the horses and led them to the enarby stables jsut past the gate.

Harukage marched down the road, the four Murakami men behind, and then followed by 10 other Nagao samurai. They came to the inner wall of the city, where the castle was. They were stopped by a captain of the guard, and Harukage was forced to show his passage papers. They walked through the gate and over a large bridge that spanned 40 yards of moat that seperated the first wall and the second wall, a military ingenuity that Harukage's father had thought of: even if the outer wall's gate was breached, the defenders could burn the bridge and the outer wall could still offer resistance even though cut off.

They went through several more gates, each one facing at seperate angles, like a stair way of paths and gates. Finally they came to a large set of stairs. Guards lined the stairs, some armed with bows, others with spears, but all with their two swords. Once more the gate captain asked for Harukage's passage papers, then allowed them to pass.

Once inside the donjon (keep) Harukage took them to the 5th level. They came down a long wooden laquered hallway until they came to a shoji door with 6 guards outside it. Harukage came up to it and returned the bow of the captain of the guard sitting on duty there.

"I am here to see Lord Nagao concerning the arrival of emmisaries from Lord Murakami of Shinano," Harukage said. The captain nodded and asked him to wait. He opened the shoji and entered, then closed it behind him. After a moment he returned. He bowed and said they could enter.

The group entered another chamber, this one had 12 guards. Harukage relinquished his killing sword to a guard who set it on a large sword rack near the wall. Hirumoto-san also had his men and himself put their swords there. They came to the shoji doors and the guards opened them. Inside was the audiance chamber, it held 20 samurai sitting facing toward the door. At the end of the audiance chamber and sitting on the dais was Lord Nagao in his favourite silk kimono displaying his clans symbol. Five place mats for seating were before the dais.

All five of the men bowed then stepped into the room. Harukage took the seat closest to the right, while Hirumoto took another one, the closest to Lord Nagao.

"Greetings Lord Nagao of Echigo," said Hirumoto. "I am Hirumoto Jiro-san here to discuss with you matters pertaining to my Lord's thoughts."

"Indeed? Would you like some sake or cha first though?" asked Nagao, getting through with the formalities that ettiquet required.

"Yes, sake would be nice, our journey was long," said Hirumoto, also continueing the greeting formalities. A maid entered and served Hirumoto and his men sake, as well as Nagao and Harukage.

"Was your journey safe? No interferance with bandits or ronin?" asked Nagao.

"No Lord, we had no such hinderances."

"Thats good. And now, what is it that is on your lord's mind," said Nagao at the proper time, finishing the greeting requirement.


Outside the castle...(attn: TGM)

The samurai captain looked the man up and down again. "You were loitering and looking quite carefully at the castle, who are you?" the captain asked the man. The captain and a group of 10 samurai had been policing the streets when they had noticed the man standing there just looking at the castle. Since this was not something that anyone usually did, they followed their orders and surrouned him.

He was dressed as a merchant or farmer, not too rich seeming. But when he had his men search the man, they discovered 20 gold koban on him.

"Who are you?" he asked again. The man bowed.

"I am a messenger, a silent messenger, from a clan wishing to speak with the Lord Nagao," the man said. The captain huffed.

"I would take your head now, but I am forced to detain you for questioning," said the captain. Taking the man the 11 samurai escorted him to a large barracks building next to the main wall of the city. There they put the man in a small cell-like room, but not a real cell, as it was made of wood. Two guards were posted to his door.

"Lord Harukage will question you when he gets back from his duties in the castle," said the captain to the man, then he left the room, and locked the door behind him.

--

"I am a commoner and I am mesmerized by thie castle, but I am doing no suspicious activity for I wish to speak with Lord Nagao, as I said earlier," 'Kuro said simply, without any worry, even as his weapons were revealed.

"I carry those weapons for protection, for I frequently am robbed, but you may take me if you wish," 'Kuro added on.

Kuro, eventually taken somewhere by the Samurai's, sat in the cell pondering about the Wooden Walls, but as he didn't want to escape for he wouldn't be able to come back here, didn't make any action such as killing the Samurai with his bare hands.

While observing, Kuro waited for Lord Harugake.

--

It was almost sunset, and Kuro knew that his if he wasn't at the spot, then something was wrong. The rest of the group would look for him, standing for his testimony anyway.

Shigen Family Academy, Kyoto, Yamashiro Province

Kenshirou was standing in the courtyard of the Shigen Academy where he was training students in the art of Shigen Ryu. Each student worked hard but Kenshirou knew that many would not master this art but for the few that did they would become great warriors. He walked through the groups of students as they practiced their swordsmanship and sparred with one another using boken. He walked into his dining room where his wife, Kattori, sat when he spoke, "Kattori, I will be leaving soon for Yamato province to see the Daimyo, Lord Yamato. I intend to fight for him as both an assassin and a warrior for the good of our home. Uri will watch after you and the academy while I am gone." Kenshirou walked out to his garden at his estate and watched the nishikigoi swim in the pond as Uri his orphaned nephew walked with him. Uri spoke up suddenly, "Uncle what is wrong? You seem so troubled." To this Kenshirou said, "Have you ever watched the nishikigoi how moves so calmly and peacefully and when the winds of war swing their way they know not of what is going on and continue their peaceful lives. Sometimes I wish that we were like the nishikigoi and that we could live in peace oblivious to war and never touched by the heartache and sorrow that it brings. But this is not so nor will it ever be that is why I must leave for the Nara to see Lord Yamato so that we can insure our family's safety. I know that many here support Lord Yamato and we can only hope that with his help we can protect Yamashiro Province. That is why I leave you to guard my wife and my infant son. In your hands I place the Academy." Uri looked surprised and said, "Uncle thank you I will guard this place to my last breath." Kenshirou then said, "Good then I should see you in a couple months time." With that said he moved into his Armor room where he readied his armor and his weapons. He walked to his horse and his supplies were readied and alongside him rode Aki and Katsumoto two of his best students who with this journey would earn their mastery in Shigen Ryu. With that they set out for Lord Yamato's palace.

A week later

Kenshirou rode to the palace gates and introduced himself, "My name is Shigen Kenshirou Master of Shigen Ryu of Kyoto and I am here to speak with Lord Yamato."

--
It was almost sunset, and Kuro knew that his if he wasn't at the spot, then something was wrong. The rest of the group would look for him, standing for his testimony anyway.

Harukage returned to the main gate and was informed of the detained prisoner. "We found him studying the castle and loitering for an extended period of time my Lord," said the captain. "And we found 20 gold koban on him." Harukage had been mind boggled that a man would carry so much gold on his person in this day and age, but then maybe the man was just hording it all. He set aside his thoughts and went into the barracks where the prisoner was.

The two guards who sat on either side of the iron reinforced bolted door bowed as Harukage stepped forward. "Has there been any sound of movement?" asked Harukage.

"No Lord, if not for the fact that I saw him enter the room, it would seem as if no one was in there," said a guard. Harukage nodded. He motioned to four guards, they opened the door and entered with torches.

The room quickly lit up, and the man was sitting calmly in the middle of the room. The guards put the torches in their brazers and then two of them held forth spears, watching for any sign of movement from the man, the other two held their hands ready on their sword hilts.

Harukage entered and sat down several feet away from the prisoner. The man bowed before a guard could strike him in the head to do so. "Konichiwa, Lord harukage," he said.

"Who are you? Why were you loitering and studying the castle? And why were you carrying so much gold on your person?" asked Harukage. Since he was a prisoner, and therefore forfeit of rights, Harukage was able to avoid being polite. He sat back and used a fan to cool his face, and waited for the answer.

"I am a commoner and I was just mesmerized by the castle. I apologize for any suspicious activity and for loitering. And the Gold I was carrying was for any necessity I might have in this city. I am sure you know what I mean by that," replied Kuro calmly.

"I do not wish to cause trouble, I am harmless, and I do not threaten anyone or anything, so please release me," he added on.

Yamato called for his fastest runner, Heiji. He was going to make a diplomatic mission to the northern provinces to attempt to make an alliance with any of the leaders of the north.

"Heiji, at your service Lord Yamato!" he kneeled before Yamato. "I am able to take any mission you require, please honor me with one most important task."

Yamato smiled and had two house servants bring out a large sack. It was quite heavy and clinked like metal.

"Matsumoto Heiji, I present you with your final missions. Take this sack of 1000 Koku to the lord of another province beyond our neighboring realm, to the northeast. Bestow this offering upon such a noble lord as tribute to accepting your audience. Plead our plight and ask for an emissary to our borders. Speak in a most diginified sense, as I want such a feudal lord to be our ally."

Heiji bowed and nodded his head in understanding.

"Make haste! The time as come to unite Japan, I'll not risk our lands and fields to a northern enemy greater to us. With an ally on our side we will be able to conquer the troubled lands around us."

Heiji nodded again and bowed before him.

"As reward for completing this mission, I will bestow upon you my home and many servants. You shall become of noblity and become very wealthy indeed. I'll pay you now for transport and shelter and comforts along the road. 50 Koku now. Use it wisely, never show the contents of the this sack. Arm yourself as you must and be safe. May Buddah and the gods watch over you on this mission of peace."

Heiji nodded and accepted the sack, it contained a gold pressed signa of Lord Yamato as proof of his messenger. Heiji bowed many times before his lord and left quickly.
-------------
Heiji expects to reach the feudal lord of the north in four days on horseback, has taken supplies for two weeks and a map. Heiji carries the concealed money and his katana, dressed in a soft blue clothes he makes his way carefully and speeding along.
-------------
Lord Yamato called to his next messenger and presented him another mission.

"Lord Yamato, I, Shiro Kunaski, wish to prove myself to you. May you present me with a fair and important task." said the young boy.

Yamato smiled and gave him a slip of paper, "This must be delivered to Sakamoto. It contains our information on our military forces, it must be delivered as soon as humanly possible." Yamato paid him 5 Koku for the task of running the parchment to his military advisor.
------------
Concealed in the parchment is the call for troops:

20,000 Archers
5,000 Spearmen
30,000 Foot Samurai
Total: 85,000 Koku
------------

Lord Yamato's Palace, Yamato Province

Kenshirou's stallion reared up slightly and he repeated his intentions as he dismounted in full armor. He walked up to the guards and said in an angry voice, "Let me pass I am here to meet with Lord Yamato so I can ask to become a Warrior and Assassin in his army along with Aki and Katsumoto."

After Hisoka met up with several of his ninja in the capital, he decided to "sight see" and was now nursing a cup of tea. He watched as a messenger rode from the castle. Looking into a cup tea, Hisoka wondered whether or not this was a good time to go introduce himself. Chuckling softly, he muttered,"When isn't there a good time?" Rising from his seat, he began walking toward the castle gates still disguised as a Buddahist priest.

When he had reached the gates, he called out to a guard, "Hello there, I have a message for your lord. May I please see him."

Hearing the guards in a fuss outside of his humble home, Lord Yamato walked out to see the person himself.

"Greetings, what angers you? Plead to me your case in private. Guards let him pass! I'll not have a citizen or emissary denied to meet me if it causes a ruckus that would disturb even Buddah's meditation!"

Yamato personally came out to the gate to greet the fellow man and walk with him up to his home

"What business do you have with me...."

-------
OOC: Last part is asking for a name, but since he doesn't know your name he's leading into it for you to announce yourself.

Kenshirou bowed and said, "Thank you Lord. My name is Master Shigen Kenshirou of Kyoto," Gesturing behind him he said, "and these two are Katsumoto and Aki my two prize students now Masters. We are here to serve in your armies as both Warriors and Assassins. Our goal is to save our home and our families. We know of many in the Yamashiro Province who support you. Will you take us into your service. If need be we will prove ourselves in combat."

OOC Kenshirou was also known as the Doragon Nishi

"Is that true....well our military is being built, it will take some time, but if you wish you can serve. Our troops will need a good master to follow in their training. Do you think you could handle training around 500 troops?" asked Yamato.

Kenshirou nodded saying, "Yes easily although they will take a short time to train they will be some of your finest I will instruct them in the ways of our Academy myself with the help of Aki and Katsumoto of course. Might I ask one favor though? I wish to know if it would be possible to get a swordsmith to build me a new sword, one that can compete with these.........Nin-ja."

The Oda messenger finally reached the capitol of Lord Yamato. He'd been troubled when he had been stopped for some time at the border but was now finally allowed to reach this far. The mesenger and his 10 guards bearing the Lord Oda's emblem came to the main gate of the castle. A guard came forward and raised his hand. "Halt! State your business here."

"I am Asano Ukisaga, a messenger from the Lord Oda Nobuhide. I am here to speak with your Lord," he said to the guard.

"very well, wait a moment please," said the guard. The man disapeared into the gate house for a moment.


---
Owari Province

Nobuhide sat on his horse outside his castle on the plane before the castle where his army trained. 40,000 men armored and armed with the best Oda could provide, were training. They marched and fought in groups of a 100.

Nobuhide's master of arms walked up the small hill where he sat on his horse. "Ah, my Lord, you honor us by watching," he said.

"How goes the training Saito-san?" asked Nobuhide. His old friend Najin Saito had been Oda's master at arms for over 10 years.

"It is going well my lord. The army will be done training within the next few weeks."

"Good, I will have need of them by then," said Nobuhide. With that he turned and went down the hill back to the castle, his six guards followed him.

Thirty ri North of Agata Castle, Army Consolidation point

Agachi Takai stood carefully on a high hill as he watched the last regiments of ashigaru fall into place with the army as it marched past him, the Ito army was now fully prepared, it had been raised and trained and equipped and now stood ready to march on the Otomo forces of Bungo and with any luck, to victory and glory.

Over a hundred thousand men continued to move slowly toward the Bungo province, the small detachment of cavalry on one side and a smaller force of ashigaru spearmen on the other while the bulk of the army marched on.
Agachi wasn't the only observer, he could see his lord, Sukemitsu watching from another hill with his samurai escort and crowds of villages from nearby had gathered to witness the Ito Army march.

It would be hard to supply the army with a supply train due to it's size and a lack of sufficient supply personal so whilst there would be people reguarly bringing supplies in to make sure none starved the army itself would rely mainly on depots set up in villages along the way and along the army's route. The supplies gathered from villages and depots would last them untill they could take what they needed from Bungo depots and villages although the men had been instrucked to leave the people enough to survive on.

Agachi expected quite a fight from the Otomo clan but also expected that in the end the greater Ito numbers and greater wealth would come to bear and the Otomo would be defeated, with a feeling of martial spirit in his veins Agachi rode down to meet his command.

OOC: Tenno Announcement: It is now reaching the end of spring, soon summer and the rains (which make it nearly impossible to do military operations, will soon be coming. Within two days, on Nov. 24, the rains begin. All military operations will need to be complete by then, if not then they will be bogged down and subject to disease and other such things.

Ito Clan: I will be using kenware's dice automated roller to do the battle you are making to take it over. I will inform you via e-mail of yor success, then inform everyone here in the next announcement.

Kai Province

"Lord Takeda, our army is prepared. IT simply awaits your command."

Takeda nodded, examining the map laid outin front of him. The Hojo had siezed the province to the south. This truobled him. If the Hojo countinued to expand he would soon be beset on all sides by them. He would have to strike know, while he still had time.

He stood and turned to his generals.

"We make for the Suruga province! THe Hojo cannot be allowed to gain a foothold. I will personally lead this attack and destroy the Hojo army."

THe general's bowed.

"It shall be done, Daimyo."

A few hours later, the Takeda army was on the march. 1,000 heavy cavalry, 4,000 archers, 4,000 spearmen, and 2,000 samurai on foot marched to the south.

Agata Castle, Hyuga Province

Sukemitsu sat carefully examining the wooden board, he was listening to a poem one of his samurai had made to soothe his nerves whilst attempting to play a game of igo with his young brother Yoshisuke, barely nine years old and learning the way of a samurai and daimyo, Sukemitsu knew he'd be a capable commander wheh he was older, however he had to make sure not to become too indulgent as was a weakness of Ito men.

By the door sat Yadora Hanten, an old retainer who was teaching Yoshisuke the ways of swordsmanship, for all his 54 years of life he was still a hardy man and considered second only to Agachi, a few other higher ranking samurai currently in Bungo, Sukemitsu's personal guard and Tabei Ukiwa.
Yadora sat with an amused smile on his broad face, his wide mouth curling slightly as he watched the smaller Ito lord playfully slap a piece down on the board.

Oposite Yadora sat Tabei Ukiwa, a tall plain dressed man wearing grey with the Ito crest embroidered on his back,Tabei was a man of ascetic and austere qualities, he looked liek a man in his mid twenties but was perhaps ten years older, he had tought Sukemitsu how to do combat with all manner of weapons including the bow, the naginata and all manner of swords especially the odachi Sukemitsu favoured.
Tabei was a skilled go player, perhaps the best in Hyuga and he was a skilled strategist but he lacked Agachi's ability to improvise on the spot and that was what earned Agachi the place of command and not Tabei, still the two men were friends and Tabei was happy with his position as head of Sukemitsu's bodyguard.

The four of them sat in the large room as the samurai finished reciting his poem and bowed.
"Very good Harako, this has been your finest yet" Yadora said.
"Thank you Yadora-san, I shall call it night's chime within the bamboo" the young man called Harako said "If I may ask leave to depart my lord".
Sukemitsu nodded "You have leave" he said and the man left the room with a bow.
Sukemitsu stared out of a window, he could see some distance from the seventh level of his citadel, he had been angry as he had received a message from Tochimaru saying one of his spies had been found out down in Osumi and was forced to run for his life and hide in south Hyuga.
But he felt better now.

Far far away Ito forces began to meet Otomo in combat.

Kenshirou nodded saying, "Yes easily although they will take a short time to train they will be some of your finest I will instruct them in the ways of our Academy myself with the help of Aki and Katsumoto of course. Might I ask one favor though? I wish to know if it would be possible to get a swordsmith to build me a new sword, one that can compete with these.........Nin-ja."

"Of course! Thank you for joining us, we have much to do before the rainy season. Feel free to check out the towns and relax, for you are now one of us." said Yamato

--------------

The Oda messenger finally reached the capitol of Lord Yamato. He'd been troubled when he had been stopped for some time at the border but was now finally allowed to reach this far. The mesenger and his 10 guards bearing the Lord Oda's emblem came to the main gate of the castle. A guard came forward and raised his hand. "Halt! State your business here."

"I am Asano Ukisaga, a messenger from the Lord Oda Nobuhide. I am here to speak with your Lord," he said to the guard.

"very well, wait a moment please," said the guard. The man disapeared into the gate house for a moment

Again, Lord Yamato appeared to personally answer the call. Yamato was a man of the people, and quickly came out to see the messenger.

"Hello, you come from Oda? What do you wish to ask of me, faithful messenger of my brother." he said.

Asano Ukisaga bowed before Lord Yamato. Personally he thought ti unseemly for a daimyo to personally greet a simple messenger, but he kept the thought in his mind and from his face.

"Yes my Lord Yamato. I am here to present you with this scroll, a formal statement wishing for alliance between the Oda Clan and Yamato Clan," said Asano. "He wishes to know if it would be possible for you to travel to Owari Province and be his guest for a personal meeting. He wishes to discuss further other things concerning the realm and the current state of affairs in the realm."

Kenshirou nadded and said, "Thank you my Lord if you need anything I will be there to assisst you." With that Kenshirou departed with Katsumoto and Aki arriving at the swordsmith's where Kenshirou ordered him to make two Katana with prongs one of which was to be bladed and on the handle they would be able to connect to form a double ended sword. Kenshirou then returned to the fortress where they set up and waited for Lord Yamato's orders and on the morrow Kenshirou would begin to train the soldiers he had been assigned unless he was needed for something else in which case Katsumoto and Aki could handle it.

"This season is upon us, it will rain day and night, however I will travel with you if you can lead the way. Let me speak with my officers for just a moment." he said and dissppeared into his home quickly.

Several minutes passed before some red with anger; obviously upset officers appeared from Yamato's house.

"Lord Yamato, I beg of you! This makes no sense!"
"Please, stay with your people, we need you here!"
"Sir, these orders are unspeakable!"

Yamato came out and looked frankly happy at making his underlings behave properly and giving orders. "Well, let's get going, do you have a horse of your own?"

OOC: Hate to do a double, but I don't want to edit the other and the post time was 1 min away. Just for convience and easy readability I do this.

Kenshirou nadded and said, "Thank you my Lord if you need anything I will be there to assisst you." With that Kenshirou departed with Katsumoto and Aki arriving at the swordsmith's where Kenshirou ordered him to make two Katana with prongs one of which was to be bladed and on the handle they would be able to connect to form a double ended sword. Kenshirou then returned to the fortress where they set up and waited for Lord Yamato's orders and on the morrow Kenshirou would begin to train the soldiers he had been assigned unless he was needed for something else in which case Katsumoto and Aki could handle it.

Lord Yamato was gathering his gear for a long winded trip, but greeted Kenshirou, "Welcome back Kenshirou. I've ordered my guards to give you a large dojo to your care only 5 ri from my home. Just ask how many men you need to construct and run it."

Yamato smiled and handed him a fist full of koku. "This should cover the costs, its 30 Koku for the construction cost and your rent and food for the coming weeks. I hope it is sufficent, if not you can ask Misho here for more."

Kenshirou walked over to Lord Yamato by now being dressed in his garb and wearing his Daisho at his side. He stepped forward and bowed to Lord Yamato saying, "Thank you Lord Yamato. If it would please you I wish to journey with you as your bodyguard. Just to be safe. You never know when the Ninja will strike. I know for certain Aki and Katsumoto can begin your army's training without me at least for the time being as well as handle all the necessary business."

"Okay, you may come, I am on a diplomatic mission of peace. I do not fear for my life, I have no known enemies at this time." he said.

Yamato called for two horses and supplies from his home. A young boy brought two beautiful horses out from the stables on the side of the home.

"Have you ever been to Oda's realm, Kenshirou?"

Asano watched as the Lord Yamato got his precesion ready. He had the full regela of a travelling daimyo, an escort of 200 samurai and his personal bodyguard. (ooc: its unseemly according to bushido, for a daimyo to travel nearly by himself and with only one guard, and would be seen as a disgrace to Yamato's pride and name; forgive me for adding your own men to the thing, but I think Oda noh Nobunaga will agree with me on this, as well as everyone else.)

Asano and his ten-man escort awaited. His men, dressed in full armor and bearing the Oda Clan crest on the small flags attached to their backs, helmets tied tight to their heads, waited.

Lord Yamato got into his horse's saddle and began speaking to his bodyguard. Asano waited for the Lord Yamato to come through the gatehouse to begin the 7 day treck back to Owari.

It took only about an hour to get everything in order from there, Lord Yamato was ready and so were two hundred of his samurai.

"Lead the way, Asano Ukisaga." he said, signalling he was ready to move out.

The 40 mounted samurai drove their horses hard, watching for anyone around them, scouting the land. The came up over a high hill and got a view of the surrounding countryside. Through the trees one could see far into the province of Etchu.

Kagetora smild as he looked down into the province he was soon going to conquer. He pushed his helmet back and let it hand by its straps behind him then wiped his brow of sweat. "I could use a bath," he said aloud.

One of the samurai nodded. "We could all use them, but all the more glory to us for winning a battle!"

"Yes thats true! And all the pickings we will gain from this! Oh ko!" said another samurai. The men all dismounted and a few tethered the horses. The others took out a bag of rice and started a fire. Soon they had a helmet of rice cooking. Another samurai pulled out a sack of fruits and shared them around.

They ate and rested for some time until suddenly another mounted samurai appeared. All the men sprang up and drew their swords. When they saw that it was one of Kagetora's messengers they relaxed. The man jumped from his horse and bowed before Kagetora. "My Lord, the army is less than an hours time from here marching quickly. Captain Omaru of the 1st company is the head spuring his men on quickly. By Nightfall the army will be camped upon the border," said the messenger.

"Good, go back and keep me posted on the army's movement," said Kagetora. The messenger bowed and jumped back onto his horsea and rode off. Kagetora turned to his other men.

"Has Inoa Matsu-san returned yet?" Kagetora asked, naming his best scout.

"No Lord, he has not, he should be back soon though Lord. His message said that he would be here," said one of the samurai.


After about another hour Inoa Matsu returned. He was clothed in a kimono made of greens and brown colors, and only his single killing sword in his sash. he got down from his lathered horse and bowed before Kagetora.

'Well?"

"The Ikko-ikki Clan have not mustered on the border, but they do have a garrison at a small village several ri south of here. We have the element of surprise!" Inao said excitedly.

"Very well, we'll await the army, the tommorow, we attack."

"I am a commoner and I was just mesmerized by the castle. I apologize for any suspicious activity and for loitering. And the Gold I was carrying was for any necessity I might have in this city. I am sure you know what I mean by that," replied Kuro calmly.

"I do not wish to cause trouble, I am harmless, and I do not threaten anyone or anything, so please release me," he added on.

Harukage listened for a moment and nodded, then he spat. "You are a horrible liar. No pheasent could possibley get 20 gold koban, unless he were a filthly merchant or a theif, and even if you somehow where a merchant, which I doubt, you would have left your money in a bank," he said. "Not only that, but you don't speak or act like a pheasent. I want to know your true purpose here and the reasons behind them or I will have you sent to the execution grounds as of right now."

Kenshirou nodded saying, "Thank you Lord. But the Ninja will attack at any time and without provication but I am here to guard your life. And yes I have done a few diplomatic things as a bodyguard to the old Daimyo of Yamashiro Province. And yes I had been there a few times and I know of the Ninjas in the area and they are extremely deadly." With that Kenshirou mounted his horse and readied himself to ride alongside Lord Yamato.

OOC: Tenno Announcement: As of this Friday November 25, the summer will start and the rainy season will begin. It will last until Sunday when winter will set in. Also, on sunday, the 'new year' will begin and everyone gets their yearly income. You will be expected to keep your tabs on your military, meaning that while you do once again refill your coffers, you will need to post how much koku it takes to keep the army you presently have, then you may try raising more troops from the remaining ones, or whatever you want. Thanks, keep up the good rp'ing!

"How violent are these ninja, to prey on hapless travelers suddenly! Surely they must be most evil and vile people!" asked Yamato, slightly concerned.

Kenshirou nodded, "Yes there are evil but in many ways they work for the greater good of the common man just hope that they do not attack because most of your troops have not seen a Ninja and are not experienced in their ways. I however learned much of them so that I could defeat them. These Ninja should only attack if they think you one of the Lord's Generals or Advisors or something along those lines."

OOC: Tenno Announcement: Check the ooc thread for updates on things. Also! The Rainy Season (summer) begins today for Japan. This rain makes it impractical for armies to move. Messengers are not restricted by the rains. Also, any armies still out campaigning ( Takeda Clan, Hojo Clan) your forces have set up camps and are now awaiting for the end of the summer to once again begin your campaigns.

Ito Clan News: The Ito Clan's invasion of Bungo province has been successfull, completely destroying all opposition. Within the new year (game year) the Ito Clan will be able to take advantage of the Bungo's annual koku and add it to his own.

Suffered Cassualties: 5,000 men

Nagao Clan News: The Nagao Clan's invasion of Etchu province (me invading) has been successful. Within the new year the Nagao clan will be able to take advantage of the Etchu's annual koku and add it to my own.

Suffered Cassualties: 850 men

Bungo Province former Otomo capital Hakata

Agachi took off his helmet and took a deep breath, the fighting had been less fierce than Agachi had expected but the Otomo forces were outnumbered by more than 3 to 1 any man would have had a hard time with odds like that and they had been defeated with little loss of Ito retainer life, the Otomo had fought to the last and Agachi respected that.
He sat quietly in a temple on the outskirts of Hakata, outside ashigaru and samurai were still in the process of securing the city.

Agachi knew had they waited a week to march they would have been a lot worse off, outside the first rains were beginning to fall and had they waited too long they would have been caught in hostile land and maybe lost twice or three times as many men as he had.
As it was the Ito clan would control Bungo by the end of the year, all they needed to do was take up position in the city untill the rainy season stopped and return home, of course a small garrison would be left in place and a new fortifaction would have to be constructed but that was simply a matter of time.

A short man samurai walked in and bowed, "Agachi-san, Hakata is now ours, Lord Otomo Yoshiaki has been confirmed as committing sepuku on the battlefield and within a month everyone within Bungo will know they are now retainers to Lord Ito Sukemitsu" The man said with a smile.

"Indeed, tell me what elements of our army were damaged?" Agachi asked.
"Tekika lost 50 samurai and 150 mounted warriors, I lost about 1350 ashigaru spearmen and reports indicate the main body of men has lost somewhere around 3400 ashigaru, a few men have been wounded but in general we are now in a good position to rest here untill the rains end with little likelihood of men dying from sickness or mortal injury." Tamora said.
"Indeed, as Lord Ito instructed we are to begin construction of a castle here as a show of force, send Sukehara to do that soon" Agachi instructed.
"A castle? that will be another drain on the treasury" Tamora comment dryly.
"We have it, Lord Ito was careful to keep enough koban to cover the costs and a castle was one of them" Agachi stated.

"Send a message to Lord Ito informing him of our success and report back" Agachi finished.
"Yes Agachi-san" Tamora said and swiftly exited the temple.
In the city the Ito forces were digging in, it would be sometime yet before the rains would stop.

Sokomu was certainly happy with the victory in Mushashi. It was at least some good news. He had failed in Suruga, letting the enemy slip away from the battlefield. He had to muster all his discipline and self control to prevent him from raging like a bull. He had slept a while and then wrote to Fuku and Nisu for reinforcements. The total reinforcements would number:
-1000 foot Samurai (750 from Nisu, 250 from Fuku)
-600 Archers (all from Nisu)
-250 Mounted Samurai from Nisu

Nisu had also the order to construct a fortress. Once it has been completed, he'll leave a garrison of 2500 troops and move the rest of his troops back to Odawara.

Unfortunately, the summer had come and with it, the usual wet and hot weather. It would be impossible for reinforcements to come here quickly. Sokomu had ordered a camp to be pitched and he had send regular patrols of some 50 men out to scout the surrounding area. He sighed and turned to his aide Kozuma.

Sokomu:"We're cursed and blessed with the summer season. It is a curse for the hot and wet weather, draining the energy from the men. It is a blessing for the rice fields. Without our rain, there's no rice."
Kozuma:"And without rice, no food for the mighty Hojo army! When do the reinforcements arrive, my lord?"
Sokomu:"They'll arrive after the rainy season, which had started a while ago. A few eeks at the most. And once the reinforcements have arrived, we'll attack once again. And this time, if Buddha and teh gods allow it, we'll win!"
Kozuma:"We will win! There's no other way. We'll loose face if we are kept at bay by a few samurai."
Sokomu:"We'll win. As you said, there's no other way..."

ooc. Tomorrow the new year begins, so I can add the Mushashi income?

Though the rainy season had started, it had yet to rain in Owari. Lord Oda turned out his army for the arrival of Lord Yamato. Armored in the best silk-iron plate armor an ashigaru had ever known, and armed with a strong laquered 8ft bamboo spear (1 foot blade) along with the killing sword, and a brown laquered conical hat. Each bore the cipher of the Oda Clan on their chest and on small flags connected to their backs.

They stood in neat companies around the entrance to Lord Oda's fortress. Nobuhide himself stood on a balcony watching from afar the small cloud of dust that announced the arrival of the party.

Coming up from the city below came first Oda Nobuhude's own messenger. He and his ten man escort came to the first company of ashigaru and dismounted. They joined in to the formation, and grooms took their horses.

Next came the line of samurai dressed in the livery of Lord Yamato. Two bore great banners declaring his cipher. All were wel armed and held themselves in a proud manner. In about the middle of the line of 200 samurai was Lord Yamato himself, dressed in riding clothes, but dressed as a daimyo all the same so that no on could mistake him.

The party of samurai came through the first gate, after passing over the bridge, past several hundred ashigaru and then passed into an inner small wall. Lord Nobuhide's son, Nobutora, stood at this gate in formal dress.

Lord Yamato's samurai dismounted and led their horses over to Oda grooms, then they got into formation and stood awaiting their lord. Yamato dismounted and gave his horse to a waiting man. He took out his fan and flapped it several times, and looked out over on all the assembled troops. He then turned and walked up to Nobutora. Nobutora bowed.

"Greetings Yamato-sama, I am Lord Oda's son and I will act as your guide until we reach my father. Seeing as you are travel weary, perhaps you would like a bath first?" Nobutora asked nicely. Yamato noded.

"Yes that would be nice, yes I think I will have a bath," said Yamato. Nobutora nodded and led him to the right, 4 yamato guards followed, away from the castle keep, but to a small outer house beautifully made. Inside the bath house Yamato bathed in the hot water and was massaged by the castles masus. Refreshed and dressed in a new silk kimono bearing his cipher, the Lord Yamato nodded to Nobutora.

"I am now ready to meet with your father."


After going through different levels of the castle, they came to an audiance room. Yamato's guards were obliged to stay outside which they assented. Nobutora opened the shoji door.

Inside the long hall, were sixe Oda samurai all in two neat rows on either side. One of Lord Oda's consorts sat nearby the dais waiting, and on the dais itself sat Lord Oda.

He stood as Yamato approached. "Greetings Lord Yamato! It is an honor to finally meet you," he said, begining the formalities.

"No Lord Oda, the honor is mine," said Yamato.

"Well sit please, here beside me on the dais," said Nobuhide. Since Yamato was a daimyo as well as Oda, oda had to offer the seat next to him on the dais so they could sit as equals.

"Why thankyou," said Yamato, pretending to be persuaded. After a few more minutes of other formalities, and with their honor satisfied and safe from a disgrace, Oda offered food and sake.

The two sat and enjoyed a very well cooked eel and rice dish, added with pickled vegetables.

At the correct time Oda said," And now Lord Yamato, I wonder if we could not discuss the current situation of the Realm, and perhaps an alliance between our clans."

The rain fell heavily on the roof of the castle. Tamekage sat on his dais in the audiance room, several of the shoji sections removed, leaving him able to look out into the land, and watch the rain. He listened as the orchestra of drops and piddle-pattle of rain rose and fell, smooth and hard, creating a vibrant music that calmed Tamekage very much, soothing his spirit.

"Rain upon the leaf
never knowing
the next to fall"

He smiled at his poetry. It was not bad on his behalf, since Tamekage was an indifferent poet. He was a much better writter of kanji, the characters that made up the Japanese writing system, and was considered to have the 2nd or 3rd best in the Realm.

Suddenly the far shoji door opened and Hanekaga, his 2nd son, younger than Kagetora but older than Harukage, he was a firm and fanatical supporter of his father, and served him to the best of his abilities, but he was often very blunt and short sighted for it. But Tamekage knew his good points and smiled as his son came forward.

Hanekaga came up to his father's dais and got on his knees, and bowed. "Father, I bring you a message from my brother Kagetora." He handed his father a scroll wrapped in an oiled skin to keep it dry form the rain.

Tamekage took the scrool and slid it from its protective covering. He took the scroll and broke the Nagao clan seal. He read the report from his son carefully. Then he nodded. Hanekaga couldn't hold in his curiousity.

"What's in it father?" he asked, then just as quickly swallowed and bowed his head. Tamekage nodded at his son.

"Your learning slowly to hold your tongue. And the scroll? That is none of your concern you may go." Hanekaga bowed and got up, then walked up to the shoji door and left.

When he was alone Tamekage smiled. He laughed out loud and banged his fist on the tatami mats. The scroll was from his son telling him that Bitchu was was now his and that the Ikko-Ikki clan had been eliminated. After 10 years, Tamekage was finally rid of that thorn that had been in his side since he had taken over Echigo.

He sighed and leaned back and looked again outside in the rain. It was much more pleasent now.

Hakata Castle (newly constructed)

Agachi looked on at the new castle, it was of a fair standard and would clearly send the message to the Bungo citizens; The Ito clan now ruled where the Otomo once did.

A young dark haired samurai stood before him, paler skinned than most with sharp intelligent eyes "Agachi-sama, the castle is complete as per your orders" the man said.

"Very good Fujikawa-san" Agachi commented and watched as samurai and servents began to enter the new building.

"Fujikawa-san, Lord Ito said that I was to place someone I could trust to look after this province and make sure that it is safely made into a loyal province, would you be willing to accept this duty?" Agachi asked.

"It would be an honour" Sukehara Fujikawa replied.

"Well then it's settled you are now the Regent of Bungo in the name of the Ito clan, I'll inform the troops soon" Agachi said with a smile.

"Within a week I will be heading back to Hyuga with most of the army, I'll leave a garrison under your command of ten thousand men to make sure things run smoothly and to ensure you have the man-power to deal with any problems that may present themselves" He continued.

"That sounds like a reasonable plan, I will ensure the influence of the Ito Clan within this province and crush any who dare to challenge our Clan's rule" Fujikawa said.

"Very good" Agachi said with a nod and then set off with Fujikawa in tow, the two of them going to address the other high ranking members of the Ito army in Bungo.

"So where will the army be headed next?" inquired Fujikawa as they enterred the castle.

Agachi thought for a moment, "Osumi probably, we'll stop off in Hyuga for reinforcements and orders but I think Sukemitsu-sama have us keep marching on, that way he'll be able to add to his domain more quickly, we've already had a reasonable rest given these troubled times and can't keep invading without risking spreading ourselves too thin, I think Osumi is a definite next but after that...Who knows" Agachi said with a shrug.



Bungo garrison
4000 Archers
5000 Ashigaru
950 Mounted warriors
50 Mounted samurai
+200 Samurai (from castle construction)
Total 10,200
Total cost/upkeep:12 500 Koku or about 4200 Koban

Main force (soon to return to Hyuga)
60,200 Ashigaru
46 000 Archers
10,500 Samurai
900 Mounted samurai
3900 Mounted warriors
Cost/upkeep: 142, 500 Koku

Total cost = 155, 000 Koku

Ito Treasury (military) 51 600 koku (17 200 Koban)

bump

Hyuga Province ,Agata Castle

Lord Ito Sukemitsu planned his campaigns, across a large map of Kyushu he had wooden and stone pieces that represented towns and castles, several smaller maps lay on low benches around the large war planning room.

He had secured most of Bungo and within a short time he would be able to use it's power to augment his own, on the map blue-dyed wooded pieces and white stones represented his forces, he considered the moves availible to him not too unlike a game of Igo OOC NOTE: Igo is japanese for go.He could have of course had his army stay in the North where they could move on from Bungo to Buzen, Chikugo, Chikuzen and Hizen eventually conquering them all.

However Sukemitsu had another plan, those northern provinces were small and weak and could be subdued with a few reletively small armies, however Osumi would give him a greater reserve of Kokuand Koban and after he had secured it and placed a garrison he could order his army on to Satsuma and once that was in turn secured his dominance of all Kyushu was pretty much secured, Higo would be the next to fall and then it would be a simple task of organising garrisons and castle for all of them and dividing his army for a final invasion of the northern provinces.

Of course it was an ambitious plan that would take a matter of years to furfill but Sukemitsu knew that as long as he had skilled smurai warriors like Agachi and Tabei he couldn't be defeated

Just then a samurai entered the room, "Lord Sukemitsu-sama, Lord Agachi-san sends his greetings and announces his return to Hyuga, he will lead his army to here where it will be resupplied and at your command once again" the man said and then fell into a kneeling position.

"Very good, congradulate Agachi-san on his splendid victory and tell him that supplies will await his army and that I will give him his orders once he arrives, you may leave" Sukemitsu said with a smile.
"Yes Lord Ito" the man said and exited swiftly.

Hyuga Province, Ito army

Agachi sighed as he was back in land he recognised, there was a thrill to conquest but nothing beat the feeling of returning home, hopefully Lord Ito would allow his men a week to stay with their families, bathe, eat and relax before they were sent marching again.

In just a short time he would be back in his hometown of Agata, around the grand Agata castle, with his wife and children, it was that thought that filled Agachi Takai with a sense of warmth as he and his army slowly marched home.


Bungo Province, Hakata Castle

Sukehara Fujikawa sat quietly in the new castle, in the city below he could see Ito soldiers walking the streets while others headed out into the countryside to hunt bandits or to declare to one village or another that Lord Otomo was gone and they now served Lord Ito Sukemitsu.

(OOC NOTE: I realised that he should be called by his second name as that is actually their personal name, ignore my previous post where he is referred to as Sukehara, I'll correct it when I have the time).
Fujikawa was a young man; he was pale with long black hair in something more like a ponytail than a topknot.

As a young retainer to Lord Ito being in command of a province as powerful as Bungo was about the highest he could aim for, but he was happy with that, there were not enough Ito Lords to get all the positions of power and by the time Sukemitsu had children old enough to rule Fujikawa would already be old enough to be comfortable being sent to a smaller less important castle.

Far outside in the still recently taken streets a small street-fight erupted between a few men, it quickly split up by Ito retainers and the men were sent on their way.
Further out five hundred ashigaru and fifteen samurai arrived in a village and proclaimed the fall of the Otomo and announced the new lord of Bungo.
Yet still further out there were a few villages where the Otomo fall was not yet known, the Ito still had some work to do before all of Bungo would be paying tribute to Sukemitsu.

Come on guys, don't let this die!
BUMP

Hyuga, Agata Castle

OOC: (I think by now Bungo should be within my control right? 2 weeks _ the time the castle gives me).

Sukemitsu and his samurai commanders sat on tatami mats in the large war room, Agachi Takai finished his report and knelt before Sukemitsu.
"A fine achievement Agachi-san, tell me, how long till you may march on Osumi Province?" Sukemitsu asked whilst drinking a cup of bitter green tea.
"But a short time, Lord Ito, my army is ready however I feel it would be best to let the men rest for a time" Agachi replied.
Tabei Ukiwa spoke next "That would be advisable, they have been resting for a few days, perhaps give them another week?".
Agachi nodded in agreement "They managed to rest in Hakata as well, the time they will have should be enough to meet their familes and have a few days with them after that I'll take the army south to Osumi, as soon as we have acquired Bungo's taxes we should begin to construct a second army for the North Province conquests" he finished.
"I take it Tamora-san will be in charge of the North Army?" Tabei asked.
"Yes, Tabei-san" Agachi said.
"Good, he is a strong commander, what's your opinoin on Osumi resistance?" Sukemitsu asked.
Tabei spoke first "the Kimotsuki are smaller and weaker than the Otomo and even though our army is also smaller than the one we used in Bungo it should balance out, they'd have to have a great deal more skill than the Otomo commanders to hope to win, still it is perhaps not a vain hope" he said in a level tone.
Then Agachi spoke "Tabei-san is pretty much right on all accounts, they are smaller and weaker than Bungo but it is possible for them to hold us off for a while although total defeat of our army is likely to be beyond their forces" he finished.
Sukemitsu spoke again "So Agachi-san, when will you march?" he asked.
Agachi thought for a moment then spoke "A little over a week, the men can go and visit their families for a few days and come back, resupply and be off on the march again in twelve days, maybe a little less" he said with a nod.
"Then let that be done" Sukemitsu decreed.
"Yes, Lord Ito" Agachi said and bowed then left the room.

Bungo Province, Hakata Castle

Tamora smiled as we looked at the new plans, Bungo was now under Ito control, some time soon he would begin work to upgrade his castle but that could wait till he had earned a more fearsome reputation, as soon as he began to receive taxes he was to raise a second Ito army based in Bungo to invade Buzen, Lord Ito had stressed that the takeover of the North was a minor compaign, for the Ito's age old rivals were mainly from the South and thus the conquerer of the South would gain more importance, but would still earn the conquerer much honour and cement his position in the Ito command.
But that was still some time away, taxes were not yet collected and so he had to lay his dreams of honour and glory down for the moment and attend to the more mundane business of managing a province.

Somewhere....

A man is riding on a horse, fully armored, and armed with a spear. It has a head like a spade, with grooves in the center of each side, for easier cutting. He gallops forward full bore, with a retainment of 156 samurai behind him.

He is, Honda Tadakatsu

He shakes the spear, causing the rain to fling off of it, and startling his horse a little. It bucks forward, and the entire row of men speed ahead as well. Up ahead, there is a town of ronin, waiting for the attack. They were issued a warning the day before, and so they came out in full force. There were easily 300 Yari Ashigaru, maybe more, with one man commanding the lot. They were peasants, with only 1 real champion among them.

Tadakatsu charges forward through the tree line, screaming his own heritage. The men behind him follow suit. They spot the enemy, and Lo and behold, their plan worked. The enemy was facing away, and when Tadakatsu hit their lines, he skewered the backs of about 5 men before breaking entirely through their column. The enemy scatterd left and right, some already running away. The leader was at the forefront, ahead, when Tadakatsu dismounted, and chopped down with his spear. The man defended excellently with his Katana, parrying left, right, up and left again, as Honda's strikes varied. He cocked his arm back, and then threw the weapon, it spiraling toward the man. In the same motion, he pulled out his katana, and rushed him. The man slapped the spear aside, and was posthumously decapitated. His head hung on his shoulders for a minute, till Honda kicked him, and he fell over in 2 pieces. The enemy was routed, and Honda's men only lost 1.

He rode on, and soon he saw a larger army, the Ito army. He rode through the forests, and happened upon Agata, before the army arrived....

The column cheered, and at the behest of its 2 commanders, split into 2 and formed a line. Below them were thousands of samurai arrayed in a defensive formation. Lord Hirota had failed to react to the scout's reports in time. As a matter of fact, he hadn't the time to finish his breakfast. The nerve.

He now stood behind his men and sent off his Lutenant to the individual divisions. A man adorned in all red armor winked at him and rode off, and over an embankment as soon as he had disappeared over a hillcrest and a thunderous cheer erupted from beyond that.

Up on the Hill, the enemy’s confidence grew. The army arrayed before them looked to be but 10000 strong, give or take a thousand. The army of Iyo, furious of Lord Hirota’s raids, had confidence of victory.

The foot samurai cheered and drew their Katanas. Lord Hirota shouted out a few more orders, and the first 5 lines consisting of Archers fanned out to 5 feet between each one of them. Then, without hesitation, the enemy Iyo army began its decent down the hill. Lord Hirota fastened his adorned helm to his head at this sight.

“Fire!”

The Archers drew their compound bows and aimed at the mass of enemy soldiers coming down the hill. They loosed their arrows in unison, and 2500 arrows sailed into the enemy mass, felling a good number of the enemy. The archers then ran to the back of the formation, where they would begin to fire more arrows at the rear of the enemy column.

“Bonzaiii!”
“Huurrraah!”
A tidal wave of Iyo troops smashed into the ranks of the waiting Tosu samurai. The battle had begun.

Lord Hirota nodded to his Major Domo. The man nodded in return and instructed an archer to loose a flaming arrow into the sky.



-Over the hill-
The man in the red armor saw the flaming arrow pierce into the clouded sky and knew it was time. He wheeled his horse around and looked at the Tosa Calvary. The men were all adorned in Red armor and linen, along with their banners being painted red. He raised his spear forward, and his horse sped off. The mass of enemy Calvary charged right after him, their spears lowered.

-On the battle field-
Lord Hirota’s men were slowly being pushed back by the sheer number of the enemy army. Lord Hirota nodded again at his Major Domo, who in turn rode off to a forest to the right of the field in which the two armies were fighting. Before he could reach the forest’s outskirts, thousands of foot infantry weilding halberds rushed out of the forest shouting. The infantry of Tosa entered the battle and slammed into the enemy’s left flank. While this was occurring, the Red Devils came over the crest and slammed into the enemy’s right flank. Lord Hirota smiled. Victory was his.

So he thought.

From the hill above the battle feild, the Iyo calvery energed and rushed down the hill to aid their comrades. the way the horses were foaming at the moutn indicated that they were caught offgaurd, or the enemy attacked while their calvery was just arriving.

The Commander of the Red Dragons was too emersed into battle to notice the enemy's charge against his Calvery. Lord Hirota saw this, and after a few failed attempts to get the man in the red armor's attention, he mounted his horse and led his personal Guards headlong into the enemy calvery. He lowered his spear and leaned forward in the saddle. Then the 2 forces collided. His spear impaled an enemy warrior, but he lost the spear in the attack. As he reeled from the initial shock, a well-aimed spear came charging. For his head.



-1 week Later-
Lord Hirota's eyes slowly opened. Beside him stood his wife, Lady Ishaga, of the Osumi. Although not exactly a beauty, she was not ugly. Lord Hirota was satisfied with the arrangment the day it was proposed between the two clans. he noticed that she seemed to be dabbing his face with a damp cloth, and the cloth was comming away red every time. The battle..

He sat up very quickly, startling his wife who hadn't realized he was concious. her statled cry prompted a samurai guard outside the room to enter with a drawn katana.

"My Lord!"
The samurai bowed deeply.
"Desu Hirota wishes to see you as soon as you awake."

Lord Hirota nodded, and felt his face twinged.

"Bring him in."
"At once."
"He's here?"
"Since the accident."
"What accident?"
"Which accident?"
"Multiple accidents?"
"No, just one."
"Then what do you mean by 'which one'?"
"Since you were delivered a vicious head wound..."
"That much is obvious, but what did you mean by..."
"The captain of the guard let your brother in!"
The samurai withdrew from the room quickly in fear of reprisal from Lord Hirota. Lord Hirota sighed and felt around the wound. It was just a small gash, mostly healed by now, seavering his fight eyebrow and passing over the eyelid and onto the cheekbone. By now, his wife had assumed the 'im not here' and 'im a statue' posture, not blinking or giving any visible sign of life.

Lord Hirota sighed again. His little brother loved being in the city, especially Lord Hirota's city. Here, he could get away with as much as he pleased. he was a bit unruly, yes, but a terror on the battle feild. Lord Hirota had never regretted making him the commander of the Red Dragons (the calvery) until now.

A smallish man flew into the room and threw himself at the feat of Lord Hirota.
"Im sorry brother, had I but turned my sholder, they would've paid!"
"Pay attention to your surroundings from now on."
"Im sorry!"
"I know you are. But I still have to punish you."
"Wh-what?"
"Courage brother, i am neither ruthless or cruel. We will find a suitable use for you."

Lord hirota smiled. The battle had gone well, that much he remembered from his clan telling him during an occasion where he was present but feverish, and barely awake. Iyo wasn't his yet, but it was on the way to becomming so.

-In the harbor-
A messenger lept off a small boat and sprinted into the streets.

OOC:Alright, not to nitpick but you guys really should read the "Sign up and Rules" thread more throughly it explains a fair bit about how to conduct battles and raise armies and also how much Koban and other riches you get each year.

Also I don't believe you signed up GSidea, the link to the sign up thread is at the start of this thread but I'll give it to you to as well.
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=454035

I'd also like to know how you just "happen" upon my largest and most powerful castle? one that has a seven leveled keep, three other towers, two moats and three stone walls and garrisoned by 1300 battle-hardened samurai, also if you read my above post my army is already in the city around Agata, the ones with family close by would go and visit them for a few days and then come back but that still leaves tens of thousands of ashigaru and samurai in the city.

Considering the fact you have less than 200 men I doubt you could do a lot had my army been away since to take a city you usually require something like 5:1 odds and you'd be outnumbered more than 6:1 by my defenders even if my army was still marching so unless you have somehow managed to avoid my spy networks and get an extra 100 000 men all the way through Hyuga without being noticed, which is impossible. I doubt you have even the chance that a snowball has of lasting long in a blast furnace, all this actually means little as you haven't actually registered yet though, I'm just saying even if you did you'd still have virtually a 0% chance of victory against my defenders. If you want to be a part of this RP that's fine, once Oda approves it that is, but please read the rules and then post not post then read the rules.
Lastly why would a Tokugawa retainer have gone all the way to Kyushu to attack a ronin town?
I'll post IC later today, or tomorrow at the latest.

OOC: Hakata is in the far north-west of Bungo, pretty much on the border, as a result it is a powerful trading centre.

Hakata castle, Bungo province

Fujikawa Sukehara spoke to his team of engineers, several ri away lay Funai city, Fujikawa had plans for it, it was to be the new capital of Bungo and to that end a citadel was to be constructed there, right now the site for the castle was being prepared but within a year a magnificent Ito fortress would arise there.

It would cost 3000 koban but would serve as the centre of Ito power in Bungo and would be worth it in the long run.
Hakata was a great castle and the city around it was prospering but to Fujikawa Funai had the history and location to better serve Ito interests.
Hakata would still stay the seat of Ito power untill the Funai citadel was finished and after that it would still stay a valuable asset.

Also a second Citadel at Usuki was under constuction, it would be costly with a total of another 3000 koban but it would mean that it would take many years to take Bungo province, should it ever be invaded.

Lastly the Hakata castle was being upgraded, it would take a while but it was built to provide extra support for the trading centre that was Hakata city.

In total his costs would be equal to 7200 Koban or 21 600 Koku but after a year the Ito clan would have absolute control over Bungo and it would take almost three years for an invading army to take it over and given the presence of the Ito garrison in that time a large Ito army could be raised and marched to confront any hostiles attempting to take Bungo.

The business of construction and administration was tiring and routine sometimes compared to the thrill of battle but to Fujikawa the trade-off was satisfying, ruling a province gave a sense of acomplishment to Fujikawa and it made him happy to see his wife and children in such a secure location.

Hyuga Province, Agata Castle

Sukemitsu and Tabei sat over a igo board, Tabei had a lot more influence but Sukemitsu controlled more terrain.
It had been a reletively uneventful day with the only major act being Sukemitsu's comissioning of a citadel at Obi castle.
The drain on his treasury made Sukemitsu wince, with a total of 10 200 koban or 30 600 koku being used across his domain, but he knew it was worth it in the long run.
With Fujikawa's and his own spending he had insured that over the next year Ito power would become more and more solid.

OOC:Alright, not to nitpick but you guys really should read the "Sign up and Rules" thread more throughly it explains a fair bit about how to conduct battles and raise armies and also how much Koban and other riches you get each year.

Also I don't believe you signed up GSidea, the link to the sign up thread is at the start of this thread but I'll give it to you to as well.
http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=454035

I'd also like to know how you just "happen" upon my largest and most powerful castle? one that has a seven leveled keep, three other towers, two moats and three stone walls and garrisoned by 1300 battle-hardened samurai, also if you read my above post my army is already in the city around Agata, the ones with family close by would go and visit them for a few days and then come back but that still leaves tens of thousands of ashigaru and samurai in the city.

Considering the fact you have less than 200 men I doubt you could do a lot had my army been away since to take a city you usually require something like 5:1 odds and you'd be outnumbered more than 6:1 by my defenders even if my army was still marching so unless you have somehow managed to avoid my spy networks and get an extra 100 000 men all the way through Hyuga without being noticed, which is impossible. I doubt you have even the chance that a snowball has of lasting long in a blast furnace, all this actually means little as you haven't actually registered yet though, I'm just saying even if you did you'd still have virtually a 0% chance of victory against my defenders. If you want to be a part of this RP that's fine, once Oda approves it that is, but please read the rules and then post not post then read the rules.
Lastly why would a Tokugawa retainer have gone all the way to Kyushu to attack a ronin town?
I'll post IC later today, or tomorrow at the latest.
Posted for reference. Oda approved me.
I wish to join as the Daiymo of Hyuga.

Character: Ishyanou Hirota
Appearence: 6 foot 4, Slight build.
Personality: Ambitious, Cunning, and a bit hot-headed.
Age: 22
Marital status: Just married, no children yet. Married to the daughter of the Daiymo of Osumi. The marriage is a largely political one, as the two clans are now friendly to eachother.

e-mail: rvineyar@nycap.rr.com


ooc: Uhhhh..

Im attacking you!? I thought it was Iyo, not Ito. Completely different Island.

Also, I posted a question regarding army recruitment in the signup area, but it has been left unanswered.

Sorry for the confusion.

OOC: Sorry to rain on the parade, but Oda just informed me to put an official stop on things. The rp is hereby halted until he gets can get back online, or when more people start replying like Warta Endor, who has been elected teh second tenno position. Sry.

Alright then, I have TGed Soragakure and Dratheria and they're still in just so you know.
Do you know how long this RP will be suspended for if Warta doesn't show up? as in how long it will take for Oda to get back on?
EDIT: Most of that post was for GSidea, I was aware you're not attacking me.

Alright then, I have TGed Soragakure and Dratheria and they're still in just so you know.
Do you know how long this RP will be suspended for if Warta doesn't show up? as in how long it will take for Oda to get back on?
EDIT: Most of that post was for GSidea, I was aware you're not attacking me.
Ah. Silly me.

Also, don't fret about warta. He is one of the most consistent Rpers around, and very reliable. If he is gone, its for a good reason, and he will be back.

OOC: Oda messaged me and said that it would be suspended for at the most two weeks, since this is the time a lot of people have exams, and his comp will tkae a little while to fix. He got the blue screen of death. :D And the tech guy who is fixing it for him is taking his sweet time. Anyway, he told me you guys can continue rp'ing and that I will post his announcements for him coming soon.

((OOC: Sorry, Didn't know. I'm just looking for a little fun. Also, I'm not attacking, nor am I in sight. I'm hidden in the trees. I'm also not part of Tokugawa's force, its possible for this to change, is it not? Who said I had to be? Anyways, I've posted and signed up. So can I continue now?))

Tosa Provence, Nankoku

Lord Hirota studied at a map with his fellow Chosokabe clans men. Although not precisely a Chosokabe clans man, his mother was the daughter of the last ruler, and all other potential heirs were less elegible than Lord Hirota.

His second cousin leaned over.
"Most of our populace is located along this costal plain, but we lack a strong castle town. Even this city is poorly defended. We need to do something about this, in case of an invasion."

Lord Hirota looked down at his feet and smiled. He had already thought of that, and had dispatched his unruly brother into the vast mountain landscape that made up much of Tosa, in search of am suitable spot for a new capital.

"It's already taken care of. I will just need an adequate amount of workers next spring, when I can begin construction on a new, well defended capital."

He looked around at the people gathered around the table, all 7 of them. his family members.

Toyotomi Chosokabe, take a good 5,000 samurai and about a hundred mounted samurai and go into the Iyo provence. make contact with their capital city and see if they will accept their shame and yeild their provence to us. If not, I will follow with 5000 samurai, 15,000 infantry, 2,500 calvery, and 5000 archers so we can lay seige. I have arranged for you to leave tomorrow, and I will set off next week."

Toyotomi bowed and scurried off, followed by a few retainers.

"Ok, next order of buisness is to start a fleet. Iyo is famed for its sailors, and with the provence will come a great pool of them. So we will need ships. Return to your individual towns, and begin to build 200 Seki-bune. Also, build 7 Oadake-bune to carry us... one for each of us. Now, go. Be gone my tomorrow, I expect fall to set opon us soon."

The men bowed and left the room. A servent came forward with saki for lord Hirota, and he relaxed for the rest of the day. He would need to rest up, for in 5 days, he will march.

((OOC: Sorry, Didn't know. I'm just looking for a little fun. Also, I'm not attacking, nor am I in sight. I'm hidden in the trees. I'm also not part of Tokugawa's force, its possible for this to change, is it not? Who said I had to be? Anyways, I've posted and signed up. So can I continue now?))

Alright then, sorry I over-reacted a little about that.

OOC: Although it hasn't been posted we should of got the latest round of taxes yesterday right? Will edit for IC post after response.

OOC: Oda says that is correct, but as or right now he has asked me to tell everyone that all finances have been frozen as of right now. But each person who conquered a province in the first year now has full control over it.

ooc. Well I'm back from my busy period. I only have a French test tomorrow (:rolleyes:) and then two weeks of holiday and plenty of time to RP. Also some of my private life problems are over (love+depression=even greater depression :() so...

Anywayz, nice seeing you here Vineyard!

ooc. Well I'm back from my busy period. I only have a French test tomorrow (:rolleyes:) and then two weeks of holiday and plenty of time to RP. Also some of my private life problems are over (love+depression=even greater depression :() so...

Anywayz, nice seeing you here Vineyard!

*wack* there, thats for being late. :P Just kidding. Glad to have you back. I talked to Oda and we're going to 'restart' the game in the fashion, such as after the second Year. This meaning that all the provinces anyone claimed in the first and the second years, will still posses them. However, should anyone not return to rp'ing then their provinces will be declared unihabited and acted upon as 'empty' for other players to take over.

Ok, well I'm back for sure!

Well...just say when and I'll be happy to be back in it, I just got the impression we were still on hold.

Same. Please post when we can get back underway, Oda.