The Self-Cultivation of Warring States Warriors

Page 109

What should we name this city?

Shinzaburo was too lazy to engage in idealism, so he simply named it after the place, calling it Kohama Castle.

In this way, the Kubo family could hold various year-end and year-end ceremonies in this new Obama Castle as a regional lord of Wakasa.

That's right, this year Shinsaburo doesn't need to travel around visiting others to wish them a Happy New Year. Instead, he can stay at home and wait for his subordinates to come and offer their greetings.

Since he was already the deputy governor of a country, and assuming the Takeda clan resigned from their duties, he would essentially become the ruler of the country.

Looking further up, all that could be seen was the Shogun Ashikaga Yoshiteru.

But the person is far away in the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and it would take ten days to travel back and forth, so it's definitely not easy to visit them without a reason.

Neither Hosokawa Ujitsuna nor Miyoshi Nagayoshi were, in theory, Shinzaburo's true superiors.

Of course, theory is theory, and practice is practice.

Knowing that his foundation was unstable, Shinzaburo knew he could not rashly show any arrogance. He personally wrote extremely humble congratulatory messages to Ashikaga Yoshiteru, Hosokawa Ujitsuna, Miyoshi Nagayoshi, Miyoshi Yoshioki, and Takeda Nobutoyo. He even sent greetings to court nobles in Kyoto, such as Niwada, Hirohashi, Karasuma, and Takeuchi, and presented them with gifts such as white rice and salted fish.

He also made sure to greet all the Settsu people who had fought for him a few months earlier, as well as other Miyoshi retainers with whom he had previously had dealings. Not to mention his friends in Tanba.

Especially his former boss, Naito Munekatsu, who was getting arrogant, so Shinzaburo simply showered him with five pages of flattery.

Other correspondence can be handled by the scribes.

All that's left is to wait for the Wakasa samurai to come and pay their respects before the New Year, and then hold a rice-making ceremony at the homes of several important figures after the New Year.

You know what, even though the process is still very complicated, the feeling is different now that my identity has changed.

I used to think that red tape was tedious and long-winded, but this year I don't feel that way at all.

Sitting high above in the main seat, watching the people below tremble with fear and sweat profusely, he only needs to wave his hand casually and respond with a few words, yet they have to bow repeatedly with great seriousness and recite long eulogies as if they are very sincere.

Although it was all theoretical, I felt quite pleased with myself.

Only then did Shinzaburo realize that pointlessly tormenting his subordinates was actually a very pleasurable thing.

No wonder bureaucracy can't be eradicated!

It's the same when drinking.

If you're in a good mood, drink it all with everyone; if you don't want to drink, just take a small sip and put it down. Who can argue with the boss then?

Like Shinzaburo, Azumi also received many visits from the families of Wakasa samurai and the merchants who served the Kohama Bay. He heard many different styles of flattery and became somewhat smug.

The women's meetings primarily focused on discussing their respective family issues. This was also part of the political process.

As the mistress of Wakasa, Adou had to inquire about the wives of all the important ministers one by one: how many children they had, how old they were, whether their sons' education was arranged, what their daughters' personalities were like, and so on. After asking, she also had to remind them that they should not persecute their concubines and illegitimate sons out of jealousy, nor should they lose their dignity and allow their concubines and illegitimate sons to overthrow their superiors.

It's all standard procedure, nothing new.

If you were the one listening to people rambling on, you'd be incredibly annoyed. But if you were the one up there pretending to talk nonsense, it would be much more comfortable.

On New Year's Eve, Chizuru, along with four concubines from the Kubo family, bowed to Azuki. Each of them was respectful and cautious, not daring to overstep their bounds in the slightest.

So Adou was very satisfied and returned to Shinsaburo and said, "It wouldn't be bad if you took in more concubines in the future."

But when she woke up the next day, she denied saying those words.

Big news at the 206 tea party

Overall, Shinzaburo had a relatively pleasant New Year in the second year of Eiroku.

Just as I was getting back into work mode after the Lantern Festival, I suddenly received a message from Master Mingzhou, who had received the message from the Rinzai sect, saying that important figures from the Miyoshi family were preparing to hold a tea ceremony in Sakai-cho, and that I could come along if I had time.

Judging from this, Yoshiaki Kubo is also an important figure!

How can I not go? I absolutely have to go.

If you've gained the appreciation of your superiors, how can you not know how to reciprocate?

He then went with Master Mingzhou.

My father-in-law is nearly sixty years old now, and his health is gradually deteriorating. He has to be carried in a sedan chair for such a long journey.

Shinzaburo, however, felt there was no need to display an extravagant lifestyle. If one could ride a horse, one should ride a horse; if not, one should lead the horse on foot, so as not to make the retainers think that one was corrupt and decadent.

Previously, when facing the nobles and high-ranking monks of Kyoto, one had to feign elegance; now, in front of subordinates and common people, one must further promote the samurai style.

It’s a different time now!

The journey from Kohama to Sakai is about 150 to 160 kilometers. With a group of dozens of people, it was impossible to walk too fast. Even though we hurried, it still took us five days.

They finally arrived in Sakai on the afternoon of the 22nd, where Miyoshi Nagayoshi, Matsunaga Hisahide and others were holding a small renga (traditional Japanese song) party.

Naturally, it was inconvenient to disturb them, so Shinzaburo went directly to the Nansō-ji Temple of the Rinzai sect with Master Myōshū to rest.

Nanzo Temple is said to have received a donation of 20,000 taels of land, but whether this is true or not is unknown. However, the temple was indeed built on a massive scale, covering an area of ​​over 200 hectares, with layer upon layer of pavilions and towers that were dazzling to behold.

I also paid a visit to my father-in-law's senior brother, the former abbot of the Daitokuji branch of the Rinzai sect, the mentor of Sanyo Chōkei, and a top-ranking monk with the imperial title of National Preceptor, Dairin Sōtō.

This was the first formal visit.

The old sect leader was not very mobile, but his senses were still sharp. He had a kind face and a friendly smile, and looked like a good-natured elder.

But Master Mingzhou said that while he was usually kind and approachable, he was particularly fierce when discussing scholarship, and he would scold anyone without hesitation, which made Sanhao Changqing sigh, "He is not afraid of a thousand troops, but only of Zongtao's shout."

Shinzaburo thought to himself, "Thank goodness I don't need to learn etiquette from him."

The next day, there was still nothing important to do but meet with the big shots, exchange greetings, and build relationships. Shinzaburo quickly brushed up on his tea ceremony knowledge, after all, this was only his second tea ceremony, and the first one was many years ago, which he had almost forgotten.

On the third day, everyone arrived, and the tea party officially began.

The tea master was the famous "Tea Saint" Sen no Rikyu, and the famous "pearl-colored tea bowl" was used. Several other wealthy merchants and high-ranking monks also participated, each of whom was no less famous than the old father-in-law of the Kubo family.

There are countless refined people in Sakai, but Sen no Rikyu is the one with the biggest and richest business among tea connoisseurs, and he is also the most skilled at brewing tea among the top wealthy people. Who else could it be but the Tea Saint?

What about the other two of the "Three Great Masters of Tea" in the future? Tsuda Muneyuki only moved from Ishiyama to Sakai a few years ago and hasn't fully integrated into the circle yet; Imai Munehisa is still in the capital accumulation stage, and since he hasn't made enough money, he naturally has no intention of showing off. Currently, the people of Watanabe Sōyō and Ikenaga Heihisa are at the same level of wealth as Sen no Rikyū, but these people don't have that much interest in tea.

Today's tea party is to entertain a few samurai. First and foremost is Miyoshi Nagayoshi, followed by Matsunaga Hisahide and Miyoshi Nagayoshi, then Miyoshi Masayasu, Naito Munekatsu, and also Noma Hisahisa, Iwanari Tomomichi, and others.

Miyoshi Yoshioki was reportedly in Kyoto doing some activity with Ashikaga Yoshiteru, so he didn't come. Hosokawa Ujitsuna was also invited, but said he was unwell and resting at home.

The most unique name among them is that of Masayasu Miyoshi.

Although this man was a member of the Miyoshi family, he had long fought alongside Hosokawa Harumoto and caused Miyoshi Nagayoshi much trouble over the years. Now that Ashikaga Yoshiteru had made peace with Miyoshi Nagayoshi, Hosokawa Harumoto was imprisoned, and Miyoshi Masayasu, persuaded by Miyoshi Nagayashi, came to submit.

That was just two or three months ago.

His appearance at an important tea party immediately after his surrender suggests he is to be given an important position.

Perhaps the purpose of holding this tea party today is to publicize Miyoshi Masayasu's "abandonment of darkness and embrace of light." Miyoshi Masayasu was the top-ranking core military commander under Hosokawa Harumoto in the past, and his change of allegiance is of great significance.

Since it was Miyoshi Nagayoshi who brought back this group, they obviously belong to the "Yuan Cong" faction. If they gain power in the future, it is unknown whether it will affect the factional structure.

Another question: Miyoshi Nagayoshi's three younger brothers are all refined people who enjoy the tea ceremony, right? Why are none of them present today?

In theory, tea parties are solemn and serious events, and whispering is not allowed. As the younger brother, Shinzaburo dared not be disrespectful in front of his superiors, so he could only suppress his questions and carefully deal with the situation.

In short, on the 22nd of that year, at the Sakai-cho tea party, I sat there like a lackey.

Shinsaburo felt a little uncomfortable seeing a group of grown men drinking tea from the same container. So when he picked up the teacup, he subtly turned it in his hand to avoid touching anyone's saliva, then took a small sip, slowly put it down, closed his eyes to savor it for a moment, bowed slightly, and said in an elegant and lonely tone, "Good tea, thank you for your hospitality."

……

After enjoying the tea ceremony prepared by Sen no Rikyu, the Tea Saint, and going through the process of sharing thoughts, summarizing, and exchanging thanks, everyone was finally able to leave the small, cramped tea room. The subsequent free exchange session was where the real business was discussed.

Others, ranging from 1.4 meters to 1.6 meters tall, might not feel particularly uncomfortable, but Shinzaburo's legs were almost cramping after holding it in for so long. He secretly breathed a sigh of relief as he left.

Miyoshi Chōkei continued to show no interest in politics, instead going off to discuss Zen principles and literature with the monks.

Shinzaburo first chatted briefly with Miyoshi Masayasu, whom he had heard of but never met.

My initial impression is quite good.

The man was thin and refined, more like a scholar than a warrior, but his first words were: "Finally, I've met the famous Tanba Zhong Kui! If you're not used to the atmosphere today, perhaps we can have a drink together another day."

His tone was that of a military general.

Miyoshi Nagayoshi immediately corrected him: "Shimono (Miyoshi Masayasu's official name) misspoke! Lord Kubo Sado is well-versed in The Tale of Genji. In addition to his martial prowess, he also appreciates elegance. How could he not be comfortable with the atmosphere of a tea party?"

Masayasu Miyoshi looked embarrassed and quickly bowed in apology.

Shinzaburo said he didn't mind at all.

A few slips of the tongue are nothing. I've seen too many professional actors, and it's good to occasionally encounter one who speaks frankly.

Miyoshi Nagayoshi concluded: "Under the wise leadership of Lord Chikuzen (Miyoshi Nagayoshi) and Lord Yoshioki, both newcomers from distant lands and former members of the sect who have gone astray have the opportunity to rise above others."

That's a nice thing to say. Shinzaburo and Miyoshi Masayasu immediately agreed.

Then Miyoshi Nagayoshi added, “However, even if you are enjoying great glory for a time, you must not forget that everything you have gained is thanks to the grace of your lord and the young master. If you become complacent and lose your head, disaster may not be far away.”

Who are you talking about? It feels like you're implying something.

Shinzaburo pretended not to understand and responded with a laugh.

Then Miyoshi Nagayoshi said in a serious tone, "Lord Kubo Sado is young and promising. He is the young master's most admired talent, and his future is limitless."

Miyoshi Masayasu nodded earnestly and replied, "I see. I will certainly keep that in mind."

Shinzaburo quickly waved his hand in denial: "I am but a lowly warrior from a distant land, unworthy of Hyuga no Kami (Miyoshi Nagayoshi)'s undeserved praise. Who doesn't know that you are the pillar and pillar of the Miyoshi clan?"

After exchanging compliments for a long time, the matter was finally settled.

Next, Shinzaburo chatted with the Matsunaga brothers.

Matsunaga Hisahide solemnly said at the outset, "My younger brother's current situation in Tanba is all thanks to the assistance of Lord Kubo Sado!"

Upon hearing this, Shinzaburo dared not accept it and repeatedly said, "You flatter me! Even if there were no Kubo Yoshiaki in this world, Lord Bizen no Kami (Naito Munekatsu) is still the famous 'Governor of Tanshu'."

Matsunaga Hisahide immediately shook his head: "My brother and I are merely serving the Miyoshi family; there's no need to mention titles like 'Prefect of Dan Province'."

At this moment, Matsunaga Nagayasu—also known as Naito Munekatsu—had a somewhat awkward expression on his face, but he still managed to put on a smile and humbly said, "I fought hard for many years before finally defeating the Hatano family. I was a little out of line in my words and actions, which may have caused some misunderstanding. I am truly sorry."

oh……

Understood.

Judging from this, it seems that the overly arrogant Matsunaga younger brother was reprimanded by his older brother and then reluctantly admitted his mistake.

Shinzaburo, of course, wouldn't delve into the details and immediately smiled, saying, "Lord Bizen no Kami's loyalty and righteousness are known to all. My elders at home often tell me to take him as a role model!"

After a few words of conversation, the differences were seemingly resolved.

Shinzaburo then tentatively inquired about Miyoshi Masayasu's return to ginseng.

Matsunaga Hisahide burst into laughter and said without hesitation, “Lord Miyoshi Shimosuke (Masayasu) is skilled in both literature and military affairs, and possesses both wisdom and courage. Now that he has returned to the right path, isn’t this a blessing for the world? This proves that with the assistance of the Miyoshi family, the current shogunate is capable of ending the chaos and creating peace.”

Naito Munekatsu, however, said with a hint of sarcasm, "If Lord Miyoshi Shimosuke is truly submissive and ceases his rebellious acts, then it will naturally be a blessing for the world. Otherwise..."

Matsunaga Hisahide's smile froze instantly, and he glared at his younger brother.

Shinzaburo immediately made an excuse and ran away.

Then, several close associates of the Miyoshi family came to visit and exchanged a few pleasantries.

Iwanari Tomomichi, Teramachi Michiaki, Noma Hisahisa, and others did not come from high social standing. They were promoted from the lower ranks by Miyoshi Nagayoshi to serve as his close associates. In peacetime, they served as political advisors, and in wartime, they served as generals. Their power was considerable, but their titles and conduct were not particularly high.

Therefore, while they were complimenting him, they also expressed their envy of Yoshiaki Kubo being appointed as the deputy governor.

However, when Shinzaburo extended an invitation to participate in the Tango campaign, these people declined with various excuses.

Then the envy I expressed earlier was essentially ignored.

To put it bluntly, without the ability to see the future, most people feel that staying in the central government is better than guarding the frontier.

……

After talking with his colleagues, he ran into Master Mingzhou and asked a question: "I heard that Master Miyoshi Chikuzen's younger brothers are also refined gentlemen. Why didn't they attend the tea party today?"

I was just asking casually.

Unexpectedly, upon hearing this, Master Mingzhou's expression instantly turned solemn. He carefully looked around and, seeing that there were no other people present, whispered, "I heard this from my senior brother; you must not spread this!"

This startled Shinsaburo.

I always thought the four Miyoshi brothers got along really well. Are they having a falling out now?

Could there be some major disagreement?

Master Mingzhou carefully explained it once, and Shinsaburo listened attentively and found that the problem was indeed quite significant.

It turns out... it was the second younger brother of the Miyoshi family, Miyoshi Yoshikata, the governor of Awa Province, who recently stated that he felt they should not make peace with Ashikaga Yoshiteru, but should instead support Ashikaga Yoshihiro, a collateral descendant of the Muromachi Shogunate, as originally planned.

Upon hearing this, Miyoshi Nagayoshi became furious and retorted to Miyoshi Yoshikata, saying that if it weren't for his reckless killing of Ashikaga Yoshihiro's good friend Hosokawa Mochitaka, which scared him away to Kyushu, the plan to support him would have succeeded long ago! It was precisely because of that unpleasant incident that they ultimately abandoned their plan to support Ashikaga Yoshihiro and instead made peace with Ashikaga Yoshiteru!

So the two brothers started arguing.