Chapter 2: Hariti

On the night of the explosion at Jikou TempleJikou-ji (慈光寺)

Lit. Light of Mercy Temple

A temple of the Shingon school of Esoteric Buddhism located in the suburbs of Sendai. The head abbot of the temple is Kokuryou Keinosuke.

The temple is likely fictional. There are real temples named "Jikou", but apparently none in Sendai., a crescent moon shone upon YamagataYamagata-ken (山形県)

A prefecture located in the Northeast region of Japan which is encircled by mountains and the Sea of Japan. Its capital is the city of Yamagata..

The door of the godown opened with a heavy, ponderous sound.

It was already ten p.m. YoshihimeYoshihime (義姫) 1547? 1548? - 1623

Also known as: Ohigashi-no-Kata (お東の方), nickname—Demon Princess of the Ouu (奥羽の鬼姫), Hoshunin (保春院).

Mother of Date Masamune, daughter of Mogami Yoshimori and younger sister of Mogami Yoshiaki, Yoshihime was born in Yamagata Castle in Dewa. She was given in marriage at the age of 19 to Date Terumune and bore him two sons, Date Masamune and Date Kojirou. She hated her first-born, Masamune, due to his one-eyed state, and favored his younger brother Kojirou. There was additional tension between them due to Yoshihime leaking information to her relatives in the Mogami Clan even while they were fighting with the Date Clan. In 1585, upon Terumune's death, she decided to have Masamune killed to allow Kojirou to become head of the Date clan.

In 1590, when Masamune was participating in Toyotomi Hideyoshi's campaign against Odawara Castle, Yoshihime personally brought Masamune a meal laced with poison. Though Masamune consumed the poison, he was able to counteract it with the antidote. He then had Kojirou commit seppuku. Afterwards, Yoshihime returned to the Mogami Clan.

In 1614, upon Mogami Yoshiaki's death, internal strife split the Mogami Clan. In 1622, Yoshihime could no longer sustain her status in the Mogami Clan, and asked Masamune to return, which he allowed. She went to live in Sendai Castle and died there a year later at the age of 76.

It was thought from the contents of the letters and poems mother and son exchanged that Yoshihime was reconciliated with Masamune in her latter years., also known as Ohigashi-no-KataYoshihime (義姫) 1547? 1548? - 1623

Also known as: Ohigashi-no-Kata (お東の方), nickname—Demon Princess of the Ouu (奥羽の鬼姫), Hoshunin (保春院).

Mother of Date Masamune, daughter of Mogami Yoshimori and younger sister of Mogami Yoshiaki, Yoshihime was born in Yamagata Castle in Dewa. She was given in marriage at the age of 19 to Date Terumune and bore him two sons, Date Masamune and Date Kojirou. She hated her first-born, Masamune, due to his one-eyed state, and favored his younger brother Kojirou. There was additional tension between them due to Yoshihime leaking information to her relatives in the Mogami Clan even while they were fighting with the Date Clan. In 1585, upon Terumune's death, she decided to have Masamune killed to allow Kojirou to become head of the Date clan.

In 1590, when Masamune was participating in Toyotomi Hideyoshi's campaign against Odawara Castle, Yoshihime personally brought Masamune a meal laced with poison. Though Masamune consumed the poison, he was able to counteract it with the antidote. He then had Kojirou commit seppuku. Afterwards, Yoshihime returned to the Mogami Clan.

In 1614, upon Mogami Yoshiaki's death, internal strife split the Mogami Clan. In 1622, Yoshihime could no longer sustain her status in the Mogami Clan, and asked Masamune to return, which he allowed. She went to live in Sendai Castle and died there a year later at the age of 76.

It was thought from the contents of the letters and poems mother and son exchanged that Yoshihime was reconciliated with Masamune in her latter years., entered with several attendants.

“Dost thou refuse to obey us still?”

At the sound of her voice, Naoe, still suspended from the manacles, raised weary eyes. Perhaps he no longer had strength to speak; he only looked at her blearily.

“Hmm. It doth appear that thou art at thy limit.”

Ohigashi approached and smiled at Naoe’s pale face.

“Thou canst not fight us in that state. We shall make thee our puppet. We will make much benefit of thy power in our unification of the country. Now—” Ohigashi lifted Naoe’s chin and stared into his pupils.

“Ugh...”

Naoe’s eyes instantly blurred, and the world swayed. Ohigashi’s strong gaze locked his in place.

It was a powerful hypnotic technique. The words of suggestion flowing into him were crafted to steal away his will.

«Thou art our servant...»

«Thou shalt obey no command but ours...»

«Thou shalt move to our will.»

“Unngh...”

Groaning in pain, Naoe wrung out the last remaining dredges of his power, concentrating it between his brows and glaring back at her.

“Thou—”

Slightly agitated, Ohigashi poured even greater power into her suggestion. But Naoe continued to repel her with sheer tenacious force of will. Ohigashi’s face warped in annoyance.

“!”

She dealt a sharp slap to Naoe’s cheek.

“Thou impudent knave...!” she said menacingly, “Thy resistance is in vain. Soon or late thy strength will fail thee. Or dost thou wish more pain before thou wilt obey us?”

“—”

Naoe closed his eyes tightly. For a moment Ohigashi’s hands appeared to tremble before she slapped his cheek again with all her might.

“Thou damned obstinate wretch!” she flung at him in rage, before turning on her heels and leaving the godown.

(How dare he...!)

Several days had passed since his capture. She had attempted hypnotism such as this on him countless times, but this man, perhaps because of prior training, had not given in. She had waited until his will was weakened to try again, but he still doggedly resisted.

(Though he is unable to even use «power»!)

That impudent...she was thinking with a tsk of her tongue, when a voice spoke to her from behind.

“How dost thou, Yoshi?”

Mogami YoshiakiMogami Yoshiaki (最上義光) 1544 - 1614

A daimyo of Yamagata-han in the province of Dewa who fought for both Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. He fought Uesugi Kagekatsu as well as in the battle of Sekigahara in 1600 for Tokugawa alongside Date Masamune. His domain was expanded to 520,000 koku for his loyal service.

His son Mogami Iechika succeeded him upon his death of illness. walked over to her with his hands tucked into the sleeves of his kimono.

“Aniueaniue (兄上)

A more formal way to address an older brother than "onii-san" or its variants; could be translated as "honorable elder brother"..”

“Doth that man yet resist the manipulation of thy power?”

“Yes—” Ohigashi, calming her rage somewhat, answered in disappointment.

“Though he still resists most stubbornly, ’tis but a matter a time before his will breaks in his state of exhaustion. My power is more than enough to tame a rat or two of his ilk.”

“I see. Then I will entrust the rest to you.”

“Aniueaniue (兄上)

A more formal way to address an older brother than "onii-san" or its variants; could be translated as "honorable elder brother".?” Ohigashi peered at Yoshiaki. “Dost thou intend to go somewhere?”

“Mmm. I am going to Tokyo. There is work to be done on the party executives. The committee which is the driving force behind the transfer of the capital is meeting to polish the relocation plan such that an extraordinary session of the Diet can be called at the end of the next month.”

“So at last the time hath come.”

“Yes. At last.” A quiet smile filled Yoshiaki’s face. “So too, the «jike-kekkaijike-kekkai (地気結界)

Lit.: "earth-energy barrier"; one type of juso-kekkai which is erected for the purpose of manipulating the 'mood' or 'energy' of the earth, which in turn influences all living beings and spirits within its radius. It can be used to brainwash people, as in the case of a saimin-kekkai.» on SendaiSendai-shi (仙台市)

The capital city of Miyagi Prefecture, it is also the largest city in the northeast region of Japan. It is home to one million people, and is aptly nicknamed Mori no Miyako, the Capital of Trees. be will completed tomorrow, and our servants in Sendai will immediately begin to move. Then will the people of Sendai give everything they have according to our command for the single goal of making the ‘Capital relocation to Sendai’ a reality.”

“...”

“If the transfer of the capital should be approved by the National Diet, construction of facilities and projects for outfitting of the city would be announced immediately. It would have a great impact upon the budget, and each government office must be pushed to make the necessary preparations quickly. The transfer of government agencies must begin without delay. Construction must commence on the new National Diet hall in Sendai, and the prefectural assembly must be moved. And once the transfer is complete, there will be more work for the doing in the remodeling of the administration of the islands.”

Mogami YoshiakiMogami Yoshiaki (最上義光) 1544 - 1614

A daimyo of Yamagata-han in the province of Dewa who fought for both Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. He fought Uesugi Kagekatsu as well as in the battle of Sekigahara in 1600 for Tokugawa alongside Date Masamune. His domain was expanded to 520,000 koku for his loyal service.

His son Mogami Iechika succeeded him upon his death of illness.’s eyes glinted.

“We will control some few of the prefectures and create a wide-area local administration. We will use our onshouonshou (怨将)

Lit.: "vengeful general": the spirits of the warlords of the Sengoku period, who continue their battles even in modern-age Japan. of the «Yami-SengokuYami Sengoku (闇戦国)

Lit.: "Dark Sengoku", the civil war still being fought by the spirits of the warlords of the Sengoku period in modern-day Japan.» as intermediaries to govern the area. Namely, daimyodaimyo (大名)

Lit.: "great name"; feudal warlords of Japan self-government. For this endeavor we will take in all of the onshou as subordinates of the Mogami.”

“And those who refuse...?”

Yoshiaki snorted a laugh.

“They shall be prey to the foxes.”

As he walked towards the pond, Yoshiaki added, “Ashina MoriujiAshina Moriuji (蘆名盛氏) 1521 - 1580

Also known as: Shishisai (止々斎)

Son of Ashina Morikiyo and 16th generation lord of the Ashina Clan who probably became head of the clan around 1537, which is around the time that he married a daughter of the Date Clan and formed an alliance with Tamura Takaaki.

He expanded the domain of the Ashina and did much to improve the clan's economic condition, thereby bringing about the golden age of the Ashina.

Moriuji turned over the rule of the clan to his heir Ashina Morioki in 1561 and retired to Iwasaki Castle, shaving off his hair and taking the name of Shishisai. However, he retained power over political and military affairs.

In 1575 when Ashina Morioki died without an heir, and because Moriuji had no other heirs, he adopted a hostage of the clan: Nikaidou Moritaka, the son of Nikaidou Moriyoshi, and married him to Morioki's widow. Moritaka then became Ashina Moritaka and the next clan head.

Moriuji died in 1580 at the age of 60. With him ended the golden age of the Ashina; a mere 9 years later, the clan would be destroyed by Date Masamune. hath already made the necessary arrangements in Tokyo. So too doth my son YoshiyasuMogami Yoshiyasu (最上義康) 1575 - 1611

Mogami Yoshiyasu was the eldest son and heir of Mogami Yoshiaki, but the two were not on good terms. In 1611, while en route from house arrest to Mount Kouya, he was attacked and badly wounded. He killed himself, crying "Damn you, cruel Father!" have Sendai well in hand. His Dakiniten-houDakiniten-hou (ダキニ天法)

One type of the secret teachings (mikkyou) of Esoteric Buddhism which calls on Dakini and can be used to predict someone's time of death as well as to cast a death curse on someone. Dakiniten spells are among the strongest dark-magic spells and are jealously guarded by its practioners.

The high priests of the Shingon sect at Tou-ji used Dakiniten-hou to create spells of protection for the Emperor. These most secret of secret spells were incorporated into kinrin no hou, performed with kanchou at their enthronement.
is stronger than I anticipated. I shall make fullest use of him.”

“Hath he succeeded in the extermination of that rat’s fellows?”

“Uesugi’s Yasha-shuuYasha-shuu (夜叉衆)

The five kanshousha at the head of the Meikai Uesugi Army ordered by Uesugi Kenshin to hunt for the onshou who are disrupting the peace of modern-era Japan in a battle which has lasted four hundred years. Led by Uesugi Kagetora, with Naoe Nobutsuna, Kakizaki Haruie, Yasuda Nagahide, and Irobe Katsunaga. The name "Yasha" refers to soldiers in the army of Bishamonten, called "Yaksha".? Hmm. He who cannot even exterminate demons hath not the right to be called a general.” Yoshiaki turned to Ohigashi. “I shall leave affairs here to Kojirou and thee. Date KojirouDate Kojirou (伊達小次郎) 1568? - 1590

Also known as: childhood—Jikumaru (竺丸)

Second son of Date Terumune and Yoshihime, Kojirou was favored by his mother over his older brother Date Masamune for succession as head of the Date Clan. However, Terumune favored Masamune, who became head of the Date Clan in 1584.

Yoshihime planned the assassination of Masamune, but after she failed to poison him in 1590, Masamune ordered Kojirou's death. is the precious right arm of the Mogami. Be sure to assure him of that. ...And that I shall destroy that damned wretch Masamune, who killed his own brother.”

“Aniueaniue (兄上)

A more formal way to address an older brother than "onii-san" or its variants; could be translated as "honorable elder brother"..”

“Sendai belongs to Date no longer, but to Mogami,” Yoshiaki declared, and turned on his heels. “Soon we shall go to clean out Sendai. We shall sweep away all the Date onryouonryou (怨霊)

Lit.: "vengeful ghost"; the spirits of those who died in the Sengoku period who are still so filled with rage and hatred that they continue to exist in the world as vengeful spirits instead of being purified and reborn.. Tell him that as well.”

“... Yes.”

“Ah, and that man,” he said, looking towards the godown. “He will likely attempt suicide when driven into a corner. Allow him no opportunity to choke to death by biting off his own tongue.”

She saw Yoshiaki off, then peered at her own reflection in the pond.

Masamune’s face suddenly appeared on the water’s surface.

(A demon?—)

The wind ruffled the pond surface, and the reflection melted into the waves.

 

Was this the end?

Naoe was indeed at his limit.

He had not seen the sun for many days. How long had he been imprisoned in this «kyuuryoku-kekkaikyuuryoku-kekkai (吸力結界)

Lit. "power-absorbing barrier": a unique barrier which absorbs the «power» of anyone trapped inside such that they cannot call upon their spiritual abilities. The maker of the barrier must put considerable negative energy, such as anguish and enmity, into its creation, either from him/herself or from other souls.» cage? He had been given no food at all, only water. His body and mind were so weakened that though he had somehow been able to refuse Ohigashi, he probably no longer had the strength to do it again.

He had no strength left with which to resist her if she used her powers on him again.

(Can I go...no further...?)

Whatever else might happen, he could not allow himself to be controlled through hypnotic suggestion, for they would certainly pervert his extraordinary «powers». As one of the Meikai Uesugi ArmyMeikai Uesugi Gun (冥界上杉軍)

Lit. "Underworld Uesugi Army"; the army formed by Uesugi Kenshin to hunt down the onryou so that the peace of modern-day Japan is not threatened by centuries-old conflicts. It is composed of all the spirits who have some connection to the Uesugi and who were called upon by Kenshin. The Yasha-shuu could be called its commanders, though Uesugi Kagetora is the only person with the authority to lead it., that one thing he could not allow.

The manacles did not seem to contain any weaknesses. He had one way left of escaping before being used by them.

(Abandon this body—)

There was no other path open to him.

Unlike ordinary spirits, kanshoushakanshousha (換生者)

Those who possess others by driving out the soul from a body and making it theirs.

Unlike normal spirits, kanshousha cannot exchange bodies at will; they can only switch to another host body when their current body dies. Because kanshousha become the owners of their bodies, choubuku does not work on them. It is, however, still possible to exorcise kanshousha when they are in spirit-form (i.e. between possessions). could not freely leave a living body once they were in possession of it. They could not part from the body while it lived. So to switch bodies, death of their current body was necessary.

In other words—suicide.

No matter how difficult a barrier this was, it did not have the power to «bind» a spirit. He could become a spirit to escape and seek a new host body.

The decision pressed upon him. Since his hands were tied, he would not be able to use any tools. He could only bite off his own tongue.

(—This is no time to hesitate.)

He would not be able to do it if left with no strength at all.

(Throw away Tachibana Yoshiaki...) he thought, but the faces of his family came unexpectedly to his mind. They slipped into his strained thoughts, and he hesitated.

These were the faces of the people he had lived with for the past twenty-eight years. For these many years Tachibana Yoshiaki’s family had been Naoe NobutsunaNaoe Nobutsuna (直江信綱) ? - Oct. 6, 1581

Also known as: Nagao Kagetaka (長尾景孝), Nagao Toukurou (長尾藤九郎)
Title: Yamato no Kami (大和守)

Historically: Son of Nagao Akikage, he became head of the Sousha-Nagao Clan at a young age. He later (around 1545) passed the position to his younger brother Nagao Kagefusa. When the clan was destroyed by Takeda Shingen and their territory lost, the family escaped into Echigo. There Kagefusa became a monk, and Kagetaka was adopted by Naoe Sanetsuna when he married Sanetsuna's daughter, Osen-no-Kata. He succeeded his adopted father as master of Yoita Castle in 1577 and was a vassal of Uesugi Kenshin. He promptly took the side of Uesugi Kagekatsu during the war for succession after Kenshin's death and mobilized the members of the Naoe Clan at the castle to subdue Kagetora's troops.

After the intra-house war and Kagekatsu's victory, a question of reward was called into question. Yasuda Akimoto, one of Kagekatsu's trusted commanders, had promised rewards to Shibata Shigeie, Mouri Hidehiro, and others to convince them to join Kagekatsu's side. However, Yamazaki Hidenori, Naoe, and others objected, for they had risked life and limb at Kasugayama Castle from the very beginning of the battle, while Shibata Shigeie and the others had been lured by promise of reward from Yasuda Akimoto.

Yasuda Akimoto committed suicide when he could not keep his promise of reward. Later, Mouri Hidehiro, carrying a grudge for his death, murdered Yamazaki Hidenori at Kasugayama Castle; Naoe, who was with him at the time and took up a sword to defend himself, was killed as well. His death ended the Naoe line, which Kagekatsu later resurrected by marrying Naoe's widow, Osen-no-Kata to Higuchi Kanetsugu and commanding him to take the Naoe name.

In Mirage of Blaze: According to Kousaka Danjou, and Houjou Ujiteru he was the ringleader of Uesugi Kagekatsu's forces in the Otate no Ran. He is now Uesugi Kagetora's protector and one of the Yasha-shuu under his command. He alone, as Kagetora's protector, was given the power to perform kanshou on other souls, a power he used to force Kagetora's soul into Minako's body.’s family. Though he was probably nothing but a sham, they were a real family to him.

Would the corpse be returned to his parents? How would they take the sudden death of their son? Would much grief would he be putting them through?

He knew all too well. Even were he not Naoe, as Tachibana Yoshiaki the priest he had seen many bereaved families say good-bye to the dearly departed over the years.

Regret flashed through his chest. —He would not feel this way if he had been the kind of heartless person whose life or death mattered to no one. If like Yasuda NagahideYasuda Nagahide (安田長秀) 1516 - May 8, 1582? 1585? 1592?

Title: Jibu Shousuke (治部少輔)

Historically: Master of Yasuda Castle. The Yasuda family had served the Nagao Clan from the time of Nagao Tamekage (late 1400s). Nagahide supported Nagao Kagetora (Uesugi Kenshin) in the coup d'etat against Nagao Harukage, so was a close aide of Kenshin from early on. He fought in many of Kenshin's wars against Takeda Shingen, Oda Nobunaga, and Houjou Ujiyasu.

He received a commendation for bravery at the 4th battle of Kawanakajima along with six other commanders, including Irobe Katsunaga.

He supported Uesugi Kagekatsu in the Otate no Ran after Kenshin's death. He died in 1582 of illness in the midst of Shibata Shigeie's rebellion. (Other accounts mention 1585, 1592.)

Though he shared the same family name as Yasuda Kagemoto and Yasuda Akimoto, also vassals of the Uesugi Clan, he was descended from a different family.

In Mirage of Blaze: he was summoned by Uesugi Kenshin to become one of the Yasha-shuu and is second in power only to Uesugi Kagetora. he had cut off all ties to the family of his host body from the start, he would probably not think twice about its death.

In this he was weak. It was probably ludicrous for them to be so fixated on ordinary human emotions when their very existence ran counter to all the laws of nature.

And yet—

“If you should throw away your heart...”

The words that Kagetora had said to him so long ago came echoing back to him.

“If you should throw away your heart, you will become nothing more than true yashayasha (夜叉)

Also known as: Yakṣa

Warriors of Bishamonten, who are minor deities sometimes depicted as harmless guardians and nature spirits and sometimes as human-devouring demons. .”

In the many times they had been in these situations, Kagetora had always moved them with these words.

You must not abandon yourself.

Don’t give up until the very end.

“You can live this finite life only once, so endeavor to grieve no more of those who love you... Because it is the only thing that we, who put our borrowed lives at risk, can do. And I will never abandon you.” And then he had given them a quiet smile.

When had that been?

(Kagetora-sama...)

Naoe shut his eyes tightly against the irrepressible warmth rising in his chest. —But he could no longer do that.

Theirs was an existence that could be forgiven only because of their mission—so when the very end came, they could not do otherwise than discard their human emotions in order to fulfill that mission.

He had probably suffered with that knowledge.

(Please forgive me...)

He apologized in his heart to his faraway family, though he knew that it could not reach them. Then, his mind resolved, Naoe positioned his tongue between his teeth.

But at that moment—

His eyes opened in surprise at the sound of the godown door opening.

A young man stood at the entrance. The moonlight illuminated his face. It was—

(! Date Kojirou!)

This is it, then, Naoe thought in despair, and bit down, but.

“Don’t!”

“!”

An unseen force forcibly wrenched open Naoe’s mouth and froze his jaws at the young man’s cry, prevented his suicide.

(He’s not going to let me die...?!)

As Naoe glared at him with loathing, Kojirou stuffed the towel in his hand in Naoe’s mouth and tied it behind his head so that when he released his «power», Naoe could no longer kill himself.

“What is the meaning of this?” Naoe mumbled. “Are you here to use your arts on me again?” he demanded coldly, but for some reason Kojirou only looked at him sadly.

“?”

Then, as Naoe stared at him with surprise, Kojirou took out a tiny key and began working to unfasten the manacles around Naoe’s wrist.

(Huh...?)

Kojirou wordlessly released the shackles and helped Naoe to a sitting position on the floor.

“...What are you...”

“Take thou this opportunity to escape.”

“!”

He involuntarily stared at Kojirou.

“Wh... Why...”

“Hurry hence. Now, while Uncle is not here. While Mother hath not yet noticed...hurry!”

“Wait. Wait a moment...You...”

Kojirou warily kept a close watch on his surroundings.

“I have released the barrier. Thou canst use thy «power» once more. Hurry thou to escape. Mother and the people of the house are seeing Uncle off at this moment . ’Tis your chance.”

“Seeing your uncle off...? You mean Mogami Yoshiaki? Where is he going? What is he planning?!”

“Ssh! I know not the finer points. It appears he goes towards Tokyo. He hath said that he will leave YamagataYamagata-shi (山形市)

Lit.: "Mountain-shaped", the City of Yamagata is the capital of Yamagata Prefecture, founded in 1889. to Mother and me...”

“Tokyo? What in the world is he planning this time...!”

“If thou dost not make haste towards Sendai now, ’twill be too late. Sendai’s «jike-kekkai» will be completed tomorrow. And then Yamagata’s onryou—and the nuenue (鵺)

In Japanese mythology, the nue is a chimera formed from the head of a monkey, the body of a tanuki, the legs of a tiger, and a snake-tail. The nue can transform into a black cloud and brings illness and misfortune.

In Mirage of Blaze: The troops of the various clans, lumped-together masses of onryou, are called the «nue». Mori Ranmaru commands the Nue-shuu of the Oda, who are onryou with strong powers.—will begin to converge upon Sendai in earnest. In order to annihilate the spirits of the Date in Sendai.”

“!”

“Thou must tell thy friends in Sendai forthwith. I know not how many would become victims of the onryou’s violence. If the ‘kinrin no houKinrin no hou (金輪の法)

Lit.: "Method of metal rings"; a Dakiniten spell using spirit foxes to induce mass hypnotic suggestion. In ancient times, performed at the emperor's enthronement.’ should become effective, the onryou will have free rein. Thou must haste to stop them!”

“Why...why are you telling me this? Aren’t you with Mogami?!”

“...”

For a moment Kojirou’s face twisted with pain.

“I... Yes, ’tis true, I am with Uncle. When I was killed by my brother Masamune, my regret was such that I could not rest in peace, much though I desired it.”

“...”

“But I did not come back to do battle with my brother! Nor do I wish to take revenge on him!” the young man pleaded desperately. “I am Kojirou of the Date. I am the younger brother of Date MasamuneDate Masamune (伊達政宗) 1567 - 1636

Titles: Echizen no Kami, Mutsu no Kami
Also known as: birth—Bontenmaru (梵天丸), adult—Tojirou (藤次郎), posthumous—Teizan (貞山), self-introduction—Fujiwara no Masamune (藤原政宗), religious—Takeru Hikonomikoto (武振彦命), nickname—One-Eyed Dragon (独眼竜)

Date Masamune was a powerful daimyo in the Northeastern part of Japan during the Sengoku Period. He was the 17th-generation head of the Date Clan and the founding daimyo of Sendai-han. He was the eldest son of Date Terumune and Yoshihime, the daughter of Mogami Yoshimori.

Masamune was born in Yonezawa Castle (modern-day Yamagata Prefecture). He lost the use of his right eye after falling ill of smallpox in his childhood, and would later come to be known as the One-eyed Dragon. However, because of it his mother thought him unfit for rule of the clan, and favored his younger brother. When Date Terumune retired from the position of the clan head in 1584, Masamune killed his brother and became the head of the clan at 18.

Masamune was known as a brilliant tactician. Shortly after he became head of the clan, Oouchi Sadatsuna, a Date vassal, defected to the Ashina Clan in the Aizu region of Mutsu Province. Masamune declared war on the Ashina for the betrayal, but was forced to retreat by the Ashina general, Iwashiro Morikuni. Three months later, Masamune laid seige to Oouchi's stronghold at Otemori. It was said that he put some 800 people to the sword in retaliation for the betrayal. Thereafter the Hatakeyama Clan, the traditional rival of the Date Clan, kidnapped Masamune's father, who was then killed in battle when Masamune and his troops engaged the kidnappers. War ensued between the two clans, and Masamune would ruthlessly subjugate his neighboring clans, even those who were allied by marriage or kinship. He defeated the Ashina Clan in 1589, but was called by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to lay siege to Odawara Castle of the Houjou Clan.

He served both Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, though neither trusted him completely due to his ambition and aggression. Under Tokugawa Ieyasu Masamune controlled one of the largest fiefdoms in Japan and turned Sendai from a small fishing village to a large and prosperous city. He encouraged foreigners and was largely lenient towards Christanity and its practioners. He funded and backed the first Japanese expedition to sail around the world, which visited such places as the Philippines, Mexico, Spain and Pope Paul V in Rome.

He died in Edo at the age of 70 of esophageal cancer, and was entombed in the Zuihouden according to his last will and testament. His second son (eldest son by his legal wife Megohime) Date Tadamune inherited the position of clan head after him.! I am not here from hostility towards my brother. I desired...I desired to say to him that I wish to meet him one more time. I wish him to continue suffering no longer. That is what I would tell him! That never did I hate him!”

“Kojirou-dono...”

Four hundred year earlier, as a result of Kojirou’s mother, Hashunin—Ohigashi-no-KataYoshihime (義姫) 1547? 1548? - 1623

Also known as: Ohigashi-no-Kata (お東の方), nickname—Demon Princess of the Ouu (奥羽の鬼姫), Hoshunin (保春院).

Mother of Date Masamune, daughter of Mogami Yoshimori and younger sister of Mogami Yoshiaki, Yoshihime was born in Yamagata Castle in Dewa. She was given in marriage at the age of 19 to Date Terumune and bore him two sons, Date Masamune and Date Kojirou. She hated her first-born, Masamune, due to his one-eyed state, and favored his younger brother Kojirou. There was additional tension between them due to Yoshihime leaking information to her relatives in the Mogami Clan even while they were fighting with the Date Clan. In 1585, upon Terumune's death, she decided to have Masamune killed to allow Kojirou to become head of the Date clan.

In 1590, when Masamune was participating in Toyotomi Hideyoshi's campaign against Odawara Castle, Yoshihime personally brought Masamune a meal laced with poison. Though Masamune consumed the poison, he was able to counteract it with the antidote. He then had Kojirou commit seppuku. Afterwards, Yoshihime returned to the Mogami Clan.

In 1614, upon Mogami Yoshiaki's death, internal strife split the Mogami Clan. In 1622, Yoshihime could no longer sustain her status in the Mogami Clan, and asked Masamune to return, which he allowed. She went to live in Sendai Castle and died there a year later at the age of 76.

It was thought from the contents of the letters and poems mother and son exchanged that Yoshihime was reconciliated with Masamune in her latter years.—attempting to assassinate Masamune with poison to make Kojirou head of the Date, Masamune had personally pronounced his sentence. It had been the night before the twenty-four-year-old Masamune was to enter the battle against Odawara CastleOdawara-jou (小田原城)

Odawara Castle is a mountain castle located on a hill above Odawara City in present-day Kanagawa Prefecture and is a designated national historic site. It was built in 1417 by Oomori Yoriharu and greatly expanded by Houjou Souun when he took it in 1495. His son Houjou Ujitsuna made it his main stronghold, and so it remained for three more generations of the clan. Its extensive defenses repelled attacks by great warlords such as Uesugi Kenshin and Takeda Shingen. Toyotomi Hideyoshi took the castle in 1590 after the Houjou surrendered to him in the Siege of Odawara. He awarded it to Tokugawa Ieyasu after destroying most of its fortifications along with the Houjou lands.

Tokugawa gave the castle one of his senior retainers, Ookubo Tadayo, after the completion of Edo Castle, and it remained in the hands of the Ookubo Clan aside from a few decades in the late 1600s until the Meiji Era, when the castle was destroyed in 1870–1872 in obedience with imperial decree.

The area became Odawara Castle Park (also known as Castle Ruins Park) in 1950. The park includes an art museum, local history museum, city library, amusement park, and zoo. The present (historically inaccurate) structure, which mimics the much-reduced form of the castle in Ookubo Tadayo's time, was rebuilt in 1960 out of reinforced concrete to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the proclamation of Odawara as a city. Tokiwagi Gate (常磐木門) in the inner citadel, Akagane Gate (銅門) in the outer citadel, and Umade Gate (馬出門) were reconstructed in 1971, 1997, and 2009, respectively, in more historically accurate representations of their late Edo forms. in order to prove his allegiance to Regent Toyotomi HideyoshiToyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣秀吉) 1536 - 1598

Also called: Hiyoshimaru (日吉丸), Kinoshita Tokichiro (木下藤吉郎), Hashiba Hideyoshi (羽柴秀吉)
Titles: Kanpaku, Taikou, Chikuzen no Kami

Historically: The second of the "Three Unifiers"; he was born a peasant but rose quickly through the ranks of Oda Nobunaga's vassals to the position of one of Nobunaga's most distinguished generals. After Nobunaga's death, he took over the work of unifying the nation through military strength and brought an end to the Sengoku period.. Masamune had been forced at that time to make a choice between resisting and supporting Hideyoshi, who stood on the verge of unifying the country. If he joined the battle in Hideyoshi’s offensive against the Houjou at Odawara, then he would be for Hideyoshi—if not, against. At last, after much hesitation, he had wagered the continued existence of the Date Clan on his decision to spearhead the battle against Odawara according to the Regent’s command.

Kojirou himself had actually had no designs on the position of clan head. But it was also true that under those tense circumstances, his existence was a seed of calamity.

To say that he did not hate Masamune, who had killed him, was a lie. It was probably because of that hate that he was an onryou. But how much pain had Masamune suffered, heartbroken by a mother who had tried to kill him, overwhelmed by shame at the necessity of killing his own younger brother? Knowing that Masamune would writhe in agony until he surmounted these feelings, Kojirou could only wonder why he hated his brother.

Was it not those who remained behind in the world of the living the ones who suffered most?

He could no longer hate. He could no longer go up against his brother. He longer wanted to fight his brother. And yes, now—

“Naoe-ujihonorifics

A brief list of honorifics used in address:

san (さん) - the most common honorific, usually used to address someone outside one's immediate circle with respect
kun (君) - usually used towards boys and men of junior status or equal age and status
chan (ちゃん) - a diminutive used mainly towards children, and intimate friends, especially women; also used as an endearment for girls
sama (様) - the formal form of "san", showing a high level of respect
senpai (先輩) - used to refer to someone with a more senior status, such as a freshman towards a senior
sensei (先生) - often translated as "teacher", but can actually be used to show respect for anyone with superior knowledge in a field, including doctors and writers
dono/tono (殿) - an antiquated term which roughly translates to "lord", used to show great respect for the addressee, who can be of equal or higher status than the speaker
uji/shi (氏) - in ancient times, carried the meaning "of the ~ clan" or "of the ~ surname"; now used in formal speech and writing to refer to someone unfamiliar to the speaker.
hime (姫) - used to denote a princess or lady of higher/noble birth
. Go to Sendai. If thou shouldst meet my brother, tell him that I have not the least intention of hostility towards him. I will never fight against my brother!”

He grasped Naoe’s shoulders, clinging to them in entreaty.

“Please...! Please tell my brother that!”

“...”

Naoe grasped Kojirou’s warm hands in return, and his expression softened.

“If you wish to tell him, then go meet him yourself.”

“...”

“Please tell him from your own lips. You’ve always wanted to, have you not? Was that not why you came back?”

“Naoe-ujihonorifics

A brief list of honorifics used in address:

san (さん) - the most common honorific, usually used to address someone outside one's immediate circle with respect
kun (君) - usually used towards boys and men of junior status or equal age and status
chan (ちゃん) - a diminutive used mainly towards children, and intimate friends, especially women; also used as an endearment for girls
sama (様) - the formal form of "san", showing a high level of respect
senpai (先輩) - used to refer to someone with a more senior status, such as a freshman towards a senior
sensei (先生) - often translated as "teacher", but can actually be used to show respect for anyone with superior knowledge in a field, including doctors and writers
dono/tono (殿) - an antiquated term which roughly translates to "lord", used to show great respect for the addressee, who can be of equal or higher status than the speaker
uji/shi (氏) - in ancient times, carried the meaning "of the ~ clan" or "of the ~ surname"; now used in formal speech and writing to refer to someone unfamiliar to the speaker.
hime (姫) - used to denote a princess or lady of higher/noble birth
...”

“Come with me. Let’s go to Sendai together.”

“I shall not let thee go, Kojirou!”

“!”

He whirled, startled by the voice. Ohigashi stood there, accompanied by her retainers.

Oh no...!

Ohigashi glared at them, looking at that moment exactly like a demoness.

“How...how darest thou, thou impudent... How darest thou trick Kojirou...!”

“Mother...”

“Come here, Kojirou, to Mother’s side! Thy mother shall exterminate this rat...!”

No sooner said than a blue light flared from Ohigashi’s body. Naoe caught it with his full «powers». A violent plasmatic light scattered right in front of his eyes. Naoe’s «goshinhekigoshinheki (護身壁)

Lit.: "wall of self-protection"; the goshinheki is a barrier constructed for an instant using spiritual energy. The goshinha is effective when maintained, but the goshinheki takes shape in the instant the caster is attacked and is a basic method of self-protection. However, its weakness is that it cannot protect the caster against 100% of the damage caused by the attack.» had broken apart Ohigashi’s «nenpanenpa (念波)

Lit.: "waves of will/thought"; a nendouryoku attack using spiritual energy which focuses the will and releases it in a burst to strike at a target.».

“Thou impudent—!”

She shot an arrow-like «nenpa» at him. It burst into a shower of sparks in front of him. Naoe clenched his teeth and released a «nenpa» from his upraised fist.

“Gyaah!”

“Mother!”

Kojirou, about to run to his mother’s side, was hurled violently to the ground.

“Ah!”

The ground shook up and down. The tremor grew in intensity in the blink of an eye, and with a terrible sound like the trunks of the trees in the garden splitting apart, the roof tiles of the godown came sliding down.

“!”

Naoe promptly erected a «goshinheki» to protect Kojirou. Ohigashi was certainly not going easy on them! She aimed a mass of will point-blank at Naoe.

“Gwaah!”

The shock sent him flying. Kojirou cried out, “Please stop, Mother!”

“Come here! Kojirou! Let Mother put an end to this!”

“Mother!”

Kojirou stood protectively in front of Naoe as he got up, moaning. Rage distorted Ohigashi’s sagacious face.

“Kojirou, what dost thou mean by this?!”

“Do not hurt him, Mother!”

“Thou...wouldst thou betray thy own mother...?!”

“Please remember, Mother!” Kojirou yelled desperately. “Make me fight no longer! ’Tis my only desire!”

“What dost thou say? Art thou a coward, Kojirou!”

“I do not desire to rule the country! I desire nothing if it means fighting against my brother!”

“!”

Ohigashi’s face stiffened. Kojirou pleaded with intense earnestness, “Why must we do this? Why must we fight against my brother? Why must we annihilate Date...?!”

“Kojirou...!”

“Dost thou wish so much to rule the country? It cannot be the reason thou hast remained in this world, unable to rest in peace!”

“...”

“Dost thou hate? Is it to take revenge on my brother that thou hast remained? Why must thou confront my brother unto death? Are my brother and I not both thy sons?”

“Be silent, Kojirou!” Ohigashi cried sharply, shaking slightly. “I shunned BontenDate Masamune (伊達政宗) 1567 - 1636

Titles: Echizen no Kami, Mutsu no Kami
Also known as: birth—Bontenmaru (梵天丸), adult—Tojirou (藤次郎), posthumous—Teizan (貞山), self-introduction—Fujiwara no Masamune (藤原政宗), religious—Takeru Hikonomikoto (武振彦命), nickname—One-Eyed Dragon (独眼竜)

Date Masamune was a powerful daimyo in the Northeastern part of Japan during the Sengoku Period. He was the 17th-generation head of the Date Clan and the founding daimyo of Sendai-han. He was the eldest son of Date Terumune and Yoshihime, the daughter of Mogami Yoshimori.

Masamune was born in Yonezawa Castle (modern-day Yamagata Prefecture). He lost the use of his right eye after falling ill of smallpox in his childhood, and would later come to be known as the One-eyed Dragon. However, because of it his mother thought him unfit for rule of the clan, and favored his younger brother. When Date Terumune retired from the position of the clan head in 1584, Masamune killed his brother and became the head of the clan at 18.

Masamune was known as a brilliant tactician. Shortly after he became head of the clan, Oouchi Sadatsuna, a Date vassal, defected to the Ashina Clan in the Aizu region of Mutsu Province. Masamune declared war on the Ashina for the betrayal, but was forced to retreat by the Ashina general, Iwashiro Morikuni. Three months later, Masamune laid seige to Oouchi's stronghold at Otemori. It was said that he put some 800 people to the sword in retaliation for the betrayal. Thereafter the Hatakeyama Clan, the traditional rival of the Date Clan, kidnapped Masamune's father, who was then killed in battle when Masamune and his troops engaged the kidnappers. War ensued between the two clans, and Masamune would ruthlessly subjugate his neighboring clans, even those who were allied by marriage or kinship. He defeated the Ashina Clan in 1589, but was called by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to lay siege to Odawara Castle of the Houjou Clan.

He served both Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, though neither trusted him completely due to his ambition and aggression. Under Tokugawa Ieyasu Masamune controlled one of the largest fiefdoms in Japan and turned Sendai from a small fishing village to a large and prosperous city. He encouraged foreigners and was largely lenient towards Christanity and its practioners. He funded and backed the first Japanese expedition to sail around the world, which visited such places as the Philippines, Mexico, Spain and Pope Paul V in Rome.

He died in Edo at the age of 70 of esophageal cancer, and was entombed in the Zuihouden according to his last will and testament. His second son (eldest son by his legal wife Megohime) Date Tadamune inherited the position of clan head after him. for the future of the Date Clan...’twas for the Date Clan! BontenmaruDate Masamune (伊達政宗) 1567 - 1636

Titles: Echizen no Kami, Mutsu no Kami
Also known as: birth—Bontenmaru (梵天丸), adult—Tojirou (藤次郎), posthumous—Teizan (貞山), self-introduction—Fujiwara no Masamune (藤原政宗), religious—Takeru Hikonomikoto (武振彦命), nickname—One-Eyed Dragon (独眼竜)

Date Masamune was a powerful daimyo in the Northeastern part of Japan during the Sengoku Period. He was the 17th-generation head of the Date Clan and the founding daimyo of Sendai-han. He was the eldest son of Date Terumune and Yoshihime, the daughter of Mogami Yoshimori.

Masamune was born in Yonezawa Castle (modern-day Yamagata Prefecture). He lost the use of his right eye after falling ill of smallpox in his childhood, and would later come to be known as the One-eyed Dragon. However, because of it his mother thought him unfit for rule of the clan, and favored his younger brother. When Date Terumune retired from the position of the clan head in 1584, Masamune killed his brother and became the head of the clan at 18.

Masamune was known as a brilliant tactician. Shortly after he became head of the clan, Oouchi Sadatsuna, a Date vassal, defected to the Ashina Clan in the Aizu region of Mutsu Province. Masamune declared war on the Ashina for the betrayal, but was forced to retreat by the Ashina general, Iwashiro Morikuni. Three months later, Masamune laid seige to Oouchi's stronghold at Otemori. It was said that he put some 800 people to the sword in retaliation for the betrayal. Thereafter the Hatakeyama Clan, the traditional rival of the Date Clan, kidnapped Masamune's father, who was then killed in battle when Masamune and his troops engaged the kidnappers. War ensued between the two clans, and Masamune would ruthlessly subjugate his neighboring clans, even those who were allied by marriage or kinship. He defeated the Ashina Clan in 1589, but was called by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to lay siege to Odawara Castle of the Houjou Clan.

He served both Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, though neither trusted him completely due to his ambition and aggression. Under Tokugawa Ieyasu Masamune controlled one of the largest fiefdoms in Japan and turned Sendai from a small fishing village to a large and prosperous city. He encouraged foreigners and was largely lenient towards Christanity and its practioners. He funded and backed the first Japanese expedition to sail around the world, which visited such places as the Philippines, Mexico, Spain and Pope Paul V in Rome.

He died in Edo at the age of 70 of esophageal cancer, and was entombed in the Zuihouden according to his last will and testament. His second son (eldest son by his legal wife Megohime) Date Tadamune inherited the position of clan head after him. was not fit to be a general! Jikumaru, thou wert so much more...”

“That’s not true! My brother was the one who built the clan into a splendid 620,000-kokukoku (石)

A unit of volume used in ancient Japan which is equal to approximately 278.3 liters. It was originally defined as enough rice to feed one person for one year.

During the Edo Period, the wealth of a han was defined in koku, and many samurai received stipends in koku. domain! My brother was the one...”

“Kojirou! Masamune had thee killed!” Ohigashi screamed. “’Twas Masamune who killed thee! He put thee, his own brother, to the sword with his own hand!”

“I do not hate my brother! He had no choice, so I do not fault him!”

“You understand not, Kojirou!”

Kojirou’s shoulders jerked in surprise. Ohigashi continued in a low voice, “The heart of a mother whose child was killed... You understand not. How grieved I was. Thou knows not the heart of a mother whose child’s life is stolen...”

“Mother...”

“I hate Masamune for killing my child. Though I gave birth to him in the same way, it changes not my hatred for him for killing thee.”

Kojirou bit his lip sharply, then said, “...And who was it that thus drove him? Who drove him to it? All of it...was not everything thy fault, Mother!”

Ohigashi’s eyes widened as if she had been struck.

“Thou wouldst...thou wouldst say...that all of it was Mother’s fault?”

“Yes, I would! If thou hadst not stood me forward, it would not have happened! Was not my brother’s hatred in revenge for thy love?”

Tears welled in Kojirou’s eyes.

“Mother! Why didst thou not love my brother the way thou loved me? Did thou not know his loneliness? Why didst thou not love him, though he too was thy son?”

“...”

Ohigashi murmured in astonishment, “...Dost thou...blame thy mother...for that tragedy? Because I did not love Bonten... Thou wouldst say ’tis punishment?”

“...”

“Why...did I not love him...?”

“... Mother.”

“Why did Mother not love Bonten...?”

Taken aback, Kojirou stared at her intently.

Large teardrops spilled from her eyes.

“There is not a day in which Mother does not think of Bonten—”

Kojirou looked at her in bewilderment. “Mother...”

“Yes, ’tis true. As thou hast said, Mother did not dote on Bonten as I did thee. But, Kojirou—”

“...”

“In the depths of Mother’s heart, there are so many words that cannot be easily said to shallow outsiders!”

Naoe’s eyes widened. At that moment, the moonlight shining on her tear-streaked face lent it an almost divine light to his stunned gaze. Ohigashi’s stern face did not crumble. But that only made it seem more filled with love, a mother’s face—

(Bodhisattva—...)

Ohigashi’s tear-filled eyes glared at them.

“Kojirou, come what may, thou must take this country. This country that Masamune could not take, I will give to thee, whom he killed.”

A shimmering pale light intensified around Ohigashi’s body.

“I shall allow interference from no one! Thou shalt not interfere with Mother!”

“!”

“Mother!”

Ohigashi howled and released an intensely concentrated «nenpa» at Naoe with all her might.

Skreee!

Naoe’s «goshinheki» blocked it right in front of them with a screech of flying sparks that pierced their ears: a violent plasmatic light, filled with the same high energy, meeting her attack!

“Graaah!”

Straining his powers, Naoe slashed the light apart with his arms.

“Gyaaaah!”

Ohigashi threw her head back, a hand pressed against her forehead. Naoe immediately shouted, “ (baibai ()

Intoned by the Yasha-shuu at the beginning of choubuku, 'bai' is the "seed syllable" for Bishamonten, originally known as Vaiśravaṇa.)!”

“Naoe-ujihonorifics

A brief list of honorifics used in address:

san (さん) - the most common honorific, usually used to address someone outside one's immediate circle with respect
kun (君) - usually used towards boys and men of junior status or equal age and status
chan (ちゃん) - a diminutive used mainly towards children, and intimate friends, especially women; also used as an endearment for girls
sama (様) - the formal form of "san", showing a high level of respect
senpai (先輩) - used to refer to someone with a more senior status, such as a freshman towards a senior
sensei (先生) - often translated as "teacher", but can actually be used to show respect for anyone with superior knowledge in a field, including doctors and writers
dono/tono (殿) - an antiquated term which roughly translates to "lord", used to show great respect for the addressee, who can be of equal or higher status than the speaker
uji/shi (氏) - in ancient times, carried the meaning "of the ~ clan" or "of the ~ surname"; now used in formal speech and writing to refer to someone unfamiliar to the speaker.
hime (姫) - used to denote a princess or lady of higher/noble birth
!”

Her body was bound. Kojirou quickly tried to stop him, but Naoe, paying him no heed, joined his hands in the ritual gesture.

“Noumakusamanda bodanan baishiramandaya sowakanoumakusamanda bodanan baishiramandaya sowaka

「のうまくさまんだ　ぼだなん　ばいしらまんだや　そわか」

A mantra of Bishamonten which protects the caster from fatigue and calamity, usually used when starting a long or complex invocation.

"noumakusamanda bodanan" = a devotion to the Buddhas/"homage to all the Buddhas".
"Baishiramandaya" = a reverence to Bishamonten, or "hail Bishamonten!"!”

“Stop! Please stop, Naoe-ujihonorifics

A brief list of honorifics used in address:

san (さん) - the most common honorific, usually used to address someone outside one's immediate circle with respect
kun (君) - usually used towards boys and men of junior status or equal age and status
chan (ちゃん) - a diminutive used mainly towards children, and intimate friends, especially women; also used as an endearment for girls
sama (様) - the formal form of "san", showing a high level of respect
senpai (先輩) - used to refer to someone with a more senior status, such as a freshman towards a senior
sensei (先生) - often translated as "teacher", but can actually be used to show respect for anyone with superior knowledge in a field, including doctors and writers
dono/tono (殿) - an antiquated term which roughly translates to "lord", used to show great respect for the addressee, who can be of equal or higher status than the speaker
uji/shi (氏) - in ancient times, carried the meaning "of the ~ clan" or "of the ~ surname"; now used in formal speech and writing to refer to someone unfamiliar to the speaker.
hime (姫) - used to denote a princess or lady of higher/noble birth
!” Kojirou clung to him.

“Namu Tobatsu BishamontenNamu Tobatsu Bishamonten (南無刀八毘沙門天)

Lit. "Hail Eight-Sword Bishamonten" Chanted during "light-enclosing exorcism," the summoning of the Sword of Bishamonten, and other invocations to Bishamonten.!” Naoe shook him off and shouted, “For this demon subjugation, lend me thy power!”

An enormous energy gathered within Naoe’s fists and in the blink of an eye became a pure white ball of light. Ohigashi-no-Kata could no longer move. She cried out in a voice full of hatred, «Thou...! Damn...thee...!»

“Stop, Naoe-ujihonorifics

A brief list of honorifics used in address:

san (さん) - the most common honorific, usually used to address someone outside one's immediate circle with respect
kun (君) - usually used towards boys and men of junior status or equal age and status
chan (ちゃん) - a diminutive used mainly towards children, and intimate friends, especially women; also used as an endearment for girls
sama (様) - the formal form of "san", showing a high level of respect
senpai (先輩) - used to refer to someone with a more senior status, such as a freshman towards a senior
sensei (先生) - often translated as "teacher", but can actually be used to show respect for anyone with superior knowledge in a field, including doctors and writers
dono/tono (殿) - an antiquated term which roughly translates to "lord", used to show great respect for the addressee, who can be of equal or higher status than the speaker
uji/shi (氏) - in ancient times, carried the meaning "of the ~ clan" or "of the ~ surname"; now used in formal speech and writing to refer to someone unfamiliar to the speaker.
hime (姫) - used to denote a princess or lady of higher/noble birth
!”

He could show no mercy.

“«Choubukuchoubuku (調伏)

Also known as: choubukuryoku (調伏力)

The special power given to the Yasha-shuu to banish onryou to the Underworld using the dharani of Uesugi Kenshin's guardian deity, Bishamonten. The types of choubuku include "kouhou-choubuku", "ressa-choubuku", "kekkai-choubuku", etc. Each choubuku is begun with the incantation "bai" and the ritual hand gesture of Bishamonten's symbol.

Choubuku does not work against kanshousha, who have bodies of their own.»!”

 

Flash!

 

Incandescence.

A violent power attacked Ohigashi.

The terrible power of «choubuku» tore Ohigashi out of her vessel and swallowed up everything near her in its raging force.

Ohigashi’s horrible scream!

The light became a wind that wrapped Ohigashi away.

In the blank whiteness, Kojirou screamed, “Mother—!”

 

Crash.

Masamune stared intently at the broken fragments of the cup that had fallen from his hand. His wife MegohimeMegohime (愛姫) 1568 - 1563

Also known as: Yoshihime, Youtokuin (陽徳院)

Only daughter of Tamura Kiyoaki who married Date Masamune in 1579 at the age of 12. An assassination attempt against Masamune caused him to suspect the Tamura clan, and he ordered the executions of Megohime's nurse and several of her attendants. Their marital relations became strained by these events, but were eventually mended, and Megohime gave Masamune four children, including his heir Date Tadamune.

She lived at the Date mansion in the court of Toyotomi Hideyoshi and acted as her husband's diplomat to the court. In 1636, at the death of Masamune, Megohime became a nun and took the Buddhist name of Youtokuin. peered at him.

“Dono...?”

Masamune looked up at the moon floating in the skies over Sendai, feeling as if someone had called his childhood name.

(Mother—...?)

 

The light gradually faded.

Quiet returned once more to the garden of the Ueshima mansion, where a woman’s body lay.

Around her were the crumbled forms of those the Mogami onryou had possessed. Naoe’s «choubuku» had exorcised them all in a single blow.

Tears slid down Kojirou’s cheeks as he looked down at them dazedly.

“Kojirou-dono...”

He did not turn even at the sound of Naoe’s voice. Naoe called to him once more and moved to lay a hand on his shoulder.

“!”

Kojirou slapped his hand away violently and whirled. Hatred smoldered in his silent glare.

“Kojirou-dono. Come with me to Sendai, to your brother.”

“...”

“Kojirou-dono.”

Kojirou looked down silently. His shoulders trembled—because of rage?

“...”

Resigned, Naoe stood and began to walk away. Only then did Kojirou open his mouth.

“Naoe-ujihonorifics

A brief list of honorifics used in address:

san (さん) - the most common honorific, usually used to address someone outside one's immediate circle with respect
kun (君) - usually used towards boys and men of junior status or equal age and status
chan (ちゃん) - a diminutive used mainly towards children, and intimate friends, especially women; also used as an endearment for girls
sama (様) - the formal form of "san", showing a high level of respect
senpai (先輩) - used to refer to someone with a more senior status, such as a freshman towards a senior
sensei (先生) - often translated as "teacher", but can actually be used to show respect for anyone with superior knowledge in a field, including doctors and writers
dono/tono (殿) - an antiquated term which roughly translates to "lord", used to show great respect for the addressee, who can be of equal or higher status than the speaker
uji/shi (氏) - in ancient times, carried the meaning "of the ~ clan" or "of the ~ surname"; now used in formal speech and writing to refer to someone unfamiliar to the speaker.
hime (姫) - used to denote a princess or lady of higher/noble birth
.”

“?”

Kojirou said, with his back to Naoe, “The ‘kinrin no hou’ can be countered by ‘Gouzanzemyouou-hou’ and ‘Daiitokuou-hou’. The dual casting of these spells will surely grant thee victory.”

“The dual spells of GouzanzeGouzanze Myouou (降三世明王)

Also known as: Trailokyavijaya Vidya-raja, Conqueror of the Three Worlds

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the east, his name signifies victory over enemies of the three worlds of the manifested universe, which are the celestial, earthly, and infernal realms. He is a wrathful god whose color is blue. He is generally depicted with three faces, eight arms, and two of his hands crossed at his breast in the mudra known as vajrahumkara (dairikikei 大力契, or "vow of immense strength" in Japanese).

His wisdom is the adarsa-jnana (大円鏡智), or "great perfect mirror wisdom", which is the wisdom to clearly elucidate all things. and DaiitokuDaiitoku Myouou (大威徳明王)

Also known as: Yamantaka Vidya-raja, Conqueror of Death, Vajrabhairava, Rokusokuson (六足尊)—"Venerable Six-Footed One".

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the west. He is the wrathful manifestation of Amida Nyorai and is represented with six faces, six arms, and six legs. He rides a sacred cow or buffalo and is worshipped as a god of victory. He fights pain, poisons, snakes, and dragons.

Sometimes represented with the makouin/bakouin, or "horse-mouth mudra" (馬口印).

His wisdom is the pratyaveksana-jnana (妙観察智), or "wisdom of wondrous observation"....”

“I would ask thee to speak to my brother. To tell him of my mother and myself—”

Naoe nodded quietly.

“... I will.”

The young man trembled.

Looking over his shoulder at Kojirou on his knees beside the woman whose body had been host to Ohigashi, Naoe left the garden.

 

Dawn approached.

Naoe scowled at the eastern sky, the stern austerity returning to his face.

(Kagetora-sama...!)

Chapter 4: Flowing Stars

“He wants to speak to me? Masamune?”

Chiaki and Ayako had told him upon their return to the hotel. His gaze suddenly fell to the bandage around his right hand given him by Masamune and his household.

“To Uesugi KagetoraUesugi Kagetora (上杉景虎) 1552? 1554? - Apr. 19, 1579

Also known as: possibly Houjou Ujihide (北条氏秀), Houjou Saburou (北条三郎), Saburou Kagetora (三郎景虎)

Historically: Uesugi Kagetora was the seventh son (sixth to survive to adulthood) of Houjou Ujiyasu, younger brother of Houjou Ujimasa, Houjou Ujiteru, Houjou Ujikuni, Houjou Ujinori, Houjou Ujitada, and older brother of Houjou Ujimitsu. His mother was the sister-in-law of Tooyama Yasumitsu, a vassal of the Houjou Clan (other sources say Zuikeiin, Ujiyasu's principle wife). It's likely that he and Houjou Ujihide were two different people and that Ujihide was the son of Houjou Tsunashige and living in Edo while Saburou was living in Echigo, so most historians refer to him as Houjou Saburou when describing his early life.

As a child, he was sent into the priesthood at Souun Temple in Hakone, then sent as hostage to Takeda Shingen of the Takeda Clan in the three-way alliance between Houjou, Takeda, and Imagawa formed in 1554 (though this last point is now in dispute, as it is told only in the Records of Ancient Battles of the Eight Kanto Provinces and recorded in none of the Takeda Clan records.)

He was adopted by his uncle Houjou Genan in 1569 and married Genan's daughter.

When the Houjou and Uesugi clans formed an alliance in 1569, Saburou was sent to Uesugi Kenshin in an exchange of hostages with Kakizaki Haruie. (At first, the hostage was set to be Houjou Ujimasa's third son Kunimasumaru, but Ujimasa could not bring himself to send off his son, who was then still a baby.) Saburou was sent to the Uesugi clan in early 1570. Kenshin, who never married, developed a liking for the handsome and intelligent Saburou. He married his niece Seienin, the daughter of Nagao Masakage and older sister of Nagao Akikage (Uesugi Kagekatsu) to Saburou, gave him the name Kagetora (a name that had once belonged to Kenshin himself), and adopted him into the Uesugi Clan.

When Kenshin died suddenly in 1578 without naming an heir, Kagetora and Kagekatsu, similarly adopted by Kenshin, fought for succession to the position of clan head (the Otate no Ran). Though Kagetora held the early advantage with the backing of Uesugi vassals such as Uesugi Kagenobu, Honjou Hidetsuna, Kitajou Takahiro, and the Houjou Clan, the tide of the battle turned with Takeda Katsuyori's betrayal to Kagekatsu's side.

When the Otate fell in 1579, Kagetora attempted to escape to Odawara Castle, but was betrayed at Samegao Castle by Horie Munechika and committed suicide. His wife committed suicide along with him (though there are also accounts that she remained behind at the Otate and committed suicide there when her brother Kagekatsu refused Kagetora's surrender.) His oldest son Doumanmaru died at the hands of Kagekatsu's troops along with Uesugi Norimasa, and the rest of his children were believed to have died along with their parents.

In Mirage of Blaze: He was born to Houjou Ujiyasu and Zuikeiin as their eighth (seventh to survive to adulthood) and youngest son. After his death in the Otate no Ran, he was charged by Uesugi Kenshin to become kanshousha in order to ensure that the peace of Japan is not disrupted by the onshou as the leader of the Yasha-shuu and the commander of the Meikai Uesugi Army.. That’s what he said?”

“They pretty much know all about us. Though that’s only to be expected if they were in contact with Kousaka,” Chiaki commented. “I don’t get that guy. Kousaka, that bastard. Didn’t he say he was here to negotiate an alliance for Takeda with Date against Mogami? Then why was he helping Mogami?”

“Just because he thought he could finish us off?”

“Then why did he save Kagetora?”

Naoe, who had been listening quietly, opened his mouth to speak. “I wonder if there’s some sort of benefit for him in attaching himself to Mogami. If Takeda really wants to destroy Mogami, they probably wouldn’t take an alliance with Date so lightly.”

“But Takeda might also be considering joining with Mogami to bring down Date.”

“No—” Naoe shook his head. "That’s almost certainly not the case. If they joined with Mogami, then Mogami would immediately learn about the hostilities in EchigoEchigo-no-kuni (越国)

An ancient province in north-central Japan which was ruled by Uesugi Kenshin during the Sengoku Period. Now a part of Niigata Prefecture.. I don’t think Takeda would go so far to destroy Date. Just, maybe Kousaka sought to gain something by making a deal with Mogami YoshiyasuMogami Yoshiyasu (最上義康) 1575 - 1611

Mogami Yoshiyasu was the eldest son and heir of Mogami Yoshiaki, but the two were not on good terms. In 1611, while en route from house arrest to Mount Kouya, he was attacked and badly wounded. He killed himself, crying "Damn you, cruel Father!" personally...

Ayako made a face. “Whatever for? Maybe Kousaka’s going along with Mogami’s transfer of the capital plan or something.”

“Well, who knows?”

Chiaki unfolded his arms in disgust. “It’s like that guy’s just playing around, doing whatever he wants... But Mogami’s not doing too bad either, huh? All this transfer of the capital crap? Can it be accomplished that easily by a hypnotic suggestion?”

“But he sounded pretty serious about the transfer of the capital, didn’t he?” Yuzuru entered the conversation. “The capital is filled to bursting, and the problem is no longer on a scope that Tokyo can resolve by itself—it has to involve the entire island chain. But even if something’s started now, I can’t see it finishing within twenty or thirty years.”

“That’s true. The complexity of this country as it is now really cannot be dealt with using Sengoku-EraSengoku (戦国)

The "warring states" period, lasting from 1467 to 1615, in which the warlords of Japan battled each other for the rule of the country. sentiments.”

“Humph. If the «Yami-SengokuYami Sengoku (闇戦国)

Lit.: "Dark Sengoku", the civil war still being fought by the spirits of the warlords of the Sengoku period in modern-day Japan.» onshouonshou (怨将)

Lit.: "vengeful general": the spirits of the warlords of the Sengoku period, who continue their battles even in modern-age Japan. have any idea how to solve the awful mess of today’s national problems, then let’s let them, those fucking morons,” Chiaki swore, and returned Takaya’s gaze. “Anyway, Kagetora. What’re you going to do about Masamune?”

“...Hmm, that’s true.” Takaya returned expressionlessly. “In any case, we have to dissolve the curse on SendaiSendai-shi (仙台市)

The capital city of Miyagi Prefecture, it is also the largest city in the northeast region of Japan. It is home to one million people, and is aptly nicknamed Mori no Miyako, the Capital of Trees.. The joint spells we need to neutral this ‘kinrin no houKinrin no hou (金輪の法)

Lit.: "Method of metal rings"; a Dakiniten spell using spirit foxes to induce mass hypnotic suggestion. In ancient times, performed at the emperor's enthronement.’ are ‘Gouzanze Myouou-houGouzanze Myouou-hou (降三世明王法)

The ritual of Gouzanze Myouou, the King of Wisdom of the East, used to neutralize the kinrin no hou of Dakiniten-hou.’ and ‘Daiitoku Myouou-houDaiitoku Myouou-hou (大威徳明王法)

The ritual of Daiitoku Myouou, the King of Wisdom of the West, one of the joint spells used to neutralize the kinrin no hou of Dakiniten-hou.’, you said, right?”

“I think we can trust that information. Since it is true that either of these will neutralize Dakiniten-houDakiniten-hou (ダキニ天法)

One type of the secret teachings (mikkyou) of Esoteric Buddhism which calls on Dakini and can be used to predict someone's time of death as well as to cast a death curse on someone. Dakiniten spells are among the strongest dark-magic spells and are jealously guarded by its practioners.

The high priests of the Shingon sect at Tou-ji used Dakiniten-hou to create spells of protection for the Emperor. These most secret of secret spells were incorporated into kinrin no hou, performed with kanchou at their enthronement.
.”

“Can we—do it?”

Naoe closed his mouth. They could handle «choubukuryokuchoubuku (調伏)

Also known as: choubukuryoku (調伏力)

The special power given to the Yasha-shuu to banish onryou to the Underworld using the dharani of Uesugi Kenshin's guardian deity, Bishamonten. The types of choubuku include "kouhou-choubuku", "ressa-choubuku", "kekkai-choubuku", etc. Each choubuku is begun with the incantation "bai" and the ritual hand gesture of Bishamonten's symbol.

Choubuku does not work against kanshousha, who have bodies of their own.», but they were not experts in curses.

“I wouldn’t say that we can’t do it, but we would need to choose a place that is very spiritually advantageous.”

“An advantageous...place?”

“Yes. The power of location is significant. A place with a strong, pure spiritual aura such as a holy site increases the power of spells cast there. If we’re to break the curse barrier, we should do it where the effect is weakest.”

Takaya murmured, “So, KyougamineKyougamine (経ヶ峯)

The area around Date Masamune's mausoleum, the Zuihouden, located in Sendai City. The mausoleum itself lies within a grove of cedar trees. Just a little ways away are the mausoleums of Masamune's son and grandson, the 2nd and 3rd generation lords of Sendai., then?”

Everyone turned to him. Takaya raised his eyes determinedly.

“We’ll need Masamune’s power, won’t we?”

“Are you gonna accept his invitation, Kagetora?”

“I gotta go and have a look, right? And I think we can trust Masamune and company more that that guy Kousaka.” Takaya responded flatly to everyone present. “I’ll go see Masamune tomorrow.”

No one raised an objection.

“I want to talk to you,” Yuzuru had said to Takaya, so the two of them had come up to the roof.

Night had fallen, and lights shone in the city. The tail-lights of cars flowed along main street. Takaya and Yuzuru leaned against the railing and gazed down at the scenery for a while without saying anything.

They had not spoken much since that morning; Takaya seemed to be avoiding it.

A car’s horn blared distantly. Takaya finally opened his mouth to speak, still looking down on the hustle and bustle of what seemed almost like another world.

“What did you want to talk to me about?”

“...”

Yuzuru was silent for a moment, then said haltingly, “Uesugi Kagetora.”

Takaya raised his head, blinking.

“That’s your name, isn’t it?”

“...”

“I’ve heard all about you guys. Uesugi Kagetora is your true name, right? He said that you’re this person called Uesugi Kagetora.”

“Chiaki told you?”

Yuzuru’s gaze fell to his feet.

For a moment he seemed to be steeling himself—then he turned to Takaya resolutely.

“You can’t throw away yourself, Takaya!”

“Huh...?”

“Right now, you’re planning to discard ‘Ougi Takaya’, aren’t you? You’re thinking that throwing yourself away won’t matter if you can get that power, right? That it’ll be fine. That it doesn’t matter if you toss ‘Ougi Takaya’ away.”

“Yuzuru...”

“I’m not going to let you do that!”

Yuzuru’s tone was more forceful than usual.

“No matter what the reason, I’m not going to let you act so selfishly. I’m not letting you! It’s true that I don’t have your power or your strength, but still... I’m not going to let you run away like that!”

Takaya looked at Yuzuru in surprise. Yuzuru was glaring fiercely at Takaya, hands clutched into fists.

“I’ll never forgive you if you betray the people who treasure you now by doing that. There must be some other way you can get power!”

“Yuzuru—”

“We only have you. Miya-chan and your parents only have you. To us, there’s not one good reason for ‘Ougi Takaya’ to disappear!”

Takaya was speechless. Yuzuru pleaded with him forthrightly, “There must be some way for you to accept ‘Uesugi Kagetora’ without losing ‘Ougi Takaya’. Some way that won’t hurt anyone. You have to find a way—”

It would take everything he had to find a way.

So that he would not need to betray anyone.

Takaya finally understood.

His seventeen years were probably next to worthless in comparison with Uesugi Kagetora’s four hundred. ‘Ougi Takaya’ was one small person whose human value was far beneath that of ‘Uesugi Kagetora’.

That was what he had thought in self-derision, and in that light throwing away ‘Ougi Takaya’ was the right thing to do for those who needed Kagetora. —If he could not have that power without doing so.

But that had never been true.

It was not necessary for him to throw himself away. There had to be another way. He did not have the right to betray anyone.

Yuzuru finally smiled his usual gentle smile.

“You can call me pesky and obstinate all you want, but I’m going to be following right behind you everywhere you go. I’m going to watch you so you don’t take any stupid shortcuts.” He smiled at Takaya unwaveringly. “I’ve already made up my mind, so be prepared.”

“Yuzuru.” Takaya looked slightly stunned, but it gradually became a heart-felt grin. “You’re really obstinate,” Takaya said, and extended his right hand. “Gimme your hand.”

“Huh?”

“Just do it.”

Yuzuru obediently placed his hand on Takaya’s palm. Takaya quietly closed his eyes.

“Yuzuru. I’m gonna make you a promise.”

“A promise?”

“I’m not gonna take the easy way out. I’m not gonna betray anyone. ...If I bitch about it...” The corners of Takaya’s mouth curved up in a small smile. “You can knock me down with this hand.”

“...”

Yuzuru also smiled.

“You’d probably just hit me back.”

“I wouldn’t do that.”

“You never know.”

Yuzuru grinned happily to see Takaya finally acting himself again.

But he was changing.

The seeds of change had already been planted.

 

Naoe gazed out at the two friends from the entrance to the staircase. His eyes dropped slightly as a voice called to him from behind.

“Why don’t you climb up instead of standing there so silently?”

A young man wearing a white coat was standing at the foot of the stairs.

It was Kousaka DanjouKousaka Masanobu (高坂昌信) 1527 - 1578

Also called: Kousaka Danjou Masanobu (高坂弾正昌信), Kousaka Danjou Nosuke Masanobu (高坂弾正忠昌信), Kasuga Toratsuna (春日虎綱), Kasuga Gensuke (春日源助)
Title: Danjou Nosuke/Faithful True-Shot (弾正忠)

Historically: One of Takeda Shingen's most loyal retainers who was one of his Twenty-Four Generals and played a key part in the fourth battle of Kawanakajima.

Kousaka was born in Kai to a wealthy farmer, Kasuga Ookuma (?) (春日大隈). His father died when he was 16, and he lost a lawsuit against his elder sister's husband for ownership of his father's lands. He then enrolled in the service of Takeda Shingen.

Kousaka first served as a messenger for Shingen. He distinguished himself in battle, and rose swiftly through the ranks of Shingen's trusted retainers. He participated in most of Shingen's battles. He did not hesitate to retreat when required, which earned him the nickname of "Escaping Danjou". However, he was calm and logical in the midst of battle, and was perhaps the best of Shingen's generals.

There are anecdotes that in his younger days, Kousaka and Shingen were engaged in a shudo relationship, and Kousaka rose so quickly in Shingen's service because of Shingen's affection.

After Shingen's death in 1573, Kousaka continued on to serve Takeda Katsuyori. He sought an alliance between the Takeda clan and their old enemy, the Uesugi clan, in order to unite against the threat of Oda Nobunaga.

Kousaka died in 1578 of illness at the age of 52. He was succeeded by his second son, Kousaka Masamoto (高坂昌元), his first son, Kousaka Masazumi (高坂昌澄) having died in the Battle of Nagashino in 1575.

In Mirage of Blaze: A kanshousha who, along with Sanjou-no-Kata, breaks the barrier over Takeda Shingen's tomb, the Maenduka, in an attempt to resurrect Shingen by using Narita Yuzuru as a vessel for his spirit.

According to Haruie, Kousaka has a high level of spiritual sensing ability (reisa), such that he is able to recognize someone he had met before even after their soul has undergone purification. He warns Naoe that Narita Yuzuru's existence is a threat to the Roku Dou Sekai..

Naoe turned to him without any sign of surprise. Kousaka gave a low laugh and slowly ascended.

“Looks like Kagetora is in one piece?”

“He would not be so easily done in by some onshou.”

Kousaka came to stand next to Naoe and cast his gaze over at Takaya and Yuzuru.

“Humph, so you brought Narita Yuzuru?”

Naoe replied guardedly, “You were the one who told us not to take our eyes off him, Kousaka Danjou.”

Kousaka snorted. “True enough. He appears to be the only person who can draw out Kagetora’s powers, huh?”

“Why don’t you stop putting on airs and just tell me? The true nature of Narita Yuzuru. Who in the world is this young man that’s supposed to be a ‘threat to the Roku Dou SekaiRoku Dou Sekai (六道世界)

Also known as: Roku Dou Kai (六道界), Roku Dou (六道)

Lit. "Six Path Worlds" or just "Six Paths"; a Buddhist belief stemming from Hinduism which says that all beings are trapped within a cycle of life and death and are born into one of six realms until they are enlightened and can break free from the cycle. The six realms are: Jigoku Dou, Gaki Dou, Chikushou Dou, Ashura Dou, Nin Dou, and Ten Dou.’?”

Kousaka answered with a faint smile, “Instead of asking me, wouldn’t it be faster to seek an answer from your master, Lord Uesugi KenshinUesugi Kenshin (上杉謙信) Feb. 18, 1530 - Apr. 19, 1578

Also called: Nagao Kagetora (長尾景虎), Uesugi Masatora (上杉政虎), Uesugi Terutora (上杉輝虎)
Title: Kantou Kanrei (関東管領)

Historically: Fourth son of the noted warrior Nagao Tamekage, Kenshin wrested control of the Nagao clan from his brother Nagao Harukage and fought for control of Echigo Province. He accepted the name Uesugi Masatora when he gave refuge to his nominal lord, Uesugi Norimasa, and at his urging campaigned to push the Houjou out of the Kantou Region.

He adopted the name "Kenshin" when he became a Buddhist monk and a devotee of Bishamonten. The standard his army carried onto the battlefield bore the character 毘 ("bi") for Eight-Sword Bishamonten. He battled Takeda Shingen five times at Kawanakajima, as well as the Houjou and Ashina clans and Oda Nobunaga, whom he defeated despited being outnumbered. However, Kenshin died soon after the battle. He named his two adopted sons, Uesugi Kagetora and Uesugi Kagekatsu, his heirs, hoping that they would divide the Uesugi lands peacefully between them after his death.

In Mirage of Blaze: He became a god of war after his death, ascending from Nin Dou to Ten Dou, and established the Meikai Uesugi Army to ensure that the peace of Japan is not disrupted by the onshou. He named Kagetora as its commander.?”

“! What?!”

Looking at the color draining out of Naoe’s face, Kousaka said, “On that score, Kagetora doesn’t seem that far off from regaining his memories, hmm?”

Naoe’s face stiffened slightly. As if feeling him out, Kousaka murmured, “Aah, but that’s what’s called reaping what you sow, hmm, Naoe? It’s no good trying to wriggle your way out of it now. Since you slept with your master’s lover, of all things... You’ve let the way of the retainer fall to the wayside.”

Naoe held his breath. Kousaka continued mercilessly, “Well, Naoe? How did it feel to toss away even your honor to satisfy your desires? Did you want Minako that much? Did you hate Kagetora that much?”

“—That’s not true...!”

“And really, you didn’t have to do it at that scene of carnage. ...Ah, of course. In the Otate no RanOtate no Ran (御館の乱)

Lit.: "War of the Castle". The Otate no Ran was the name given to the intra-clan war fought between Uesugi Kagekatsu and Uesugi Kagetora, both adopted sons of Uesugi Kenshin, for succession to the position of head of the Uesugi Clan after Kenshin died. The war bifurcated the Uesugi commanders and in the end significantly weakened Uesugi's power. The "Otate", or "Castle/Mansion" refers to the residence Uesugi Kenshin built for the Kantou Kanrei, Uesugi Norimasa, near Kasugayama Castle. He used it as a government office after Norimasa passed on the title to him and the lands around Kasugayama Castle were developed.

On March 9th in the 6th year of Tenshou (April 15th, 1578), Uesugi Kenshin collapsed at Kasugayama Castle's privy from an "unforeseen nervous weakness" (some speculate poison or assassination) and died on the 13th (April 19th, 1578) without ever regaining consciousness.

Traditionally, it is held that he died without ever deciding on an heir. Some point to evidence such as Uesugi Kagetora accompanying him on shrine visits at the New Year and not being forced to perform military service (though proof of the latter is sketchy), to support theories that Kenshin favored Kagetora. It is evident that Kagetora, who was adopted from the mighty Houjou Clan, ruler of the Kantou, had unshakeable standing within the Uesugi Clan even after the Echigo-Sagami Alliance fell apart in 1571.

On the other hand, Kenshin had conferred the highest military powers within the Uesugi family on Kagekatsu, and the Uesugi retainers used similar titles for Kenshin and Kagekatsu.

Pointing to some of the above reasons, many historians argue that Kenshin had intended to pass the title of Kantou Kanrei and position of clan head of the Sannai-Uesugi Clan to Kagetora while making Kagekatsu the master of Echigo and the head of the Echigo-Uesugi Clan. There is no way of telling based on current evidence which would have been the sole heir.

In any case, a dispute over the rightful heir to Kenshin arose between Kagekatsu and Kagetora immediately. Kagekatsu moved first. On the day following Kenshin's death, Kakizaki Haruie, viewed as being in the Kagetora faction, was assassinated (there is another theory that Haruie was killed before the Otate no Ran, when his father was accused of treason). Also, according to one primary historical record, Kagekatsu moved quickly to occupy the inner citadel, treasury, and armory of Kasugayama Castle, though the exact date is unknown. Kagekatsu proclaimed himself the rightful heir in a letter dated March 24th (April 30th) and began attacking Kagetora, barricaded in the Third Wing.

Kagekatsu and Kagetora's forces fought in what is now Jouetsu City on May 5th (June 10th, 1578), and until Kagetora evacuated in the middle of the month, hostilities continued within Kasugayama Castle. During that time, both Kagekatsu and Kagetora tried to win the various Echigo generals to their side.

Commanders committed to Kagekatsu:
- Amakasu Kagemochi: Oumi no Kami
- Higuchi Kanetoyo, Naoe Kanetsugu, Ookuni Saneyori
- Honjou Shigenaga: Echizen no Kami
- Irobe Nagazane: Son of Irobe Katsunaga, master of Hirabayashi Castle
- Joujou Masashige: one of Kenshin's adopted sons, Kagekatsu's brother-in-law, head of the Joujou-Uesugi family
- Kakizaki Noriie: Noto no Kami
- Kanou Hideharu
- Kawada Nagachika: Buzen no Kami
- Murakami Kunikiyo: head of the Yamaura-Uesugi family
- Naoe Nobutsuna: Yamato no Kami, master of Yoita Castle
- Ooishi Tsunamoto: Harima no Kami
- Saitou Tomonobu: Shimotsuke no Kami, master of Akada Castle
- Shibata Nagaatsu, Shibata Shigeie, Ijimino Nobumune
- Suda Mitsuchika
- Yamayoshi Kagenaga: head of the Yamayoshi Clan, master of Koba Castle
- Yasuda Akimoto: head of the Echigo-Yasuda Clan, master of Iiyama Castle
- Yasuda Nagahide: master of Yasuda Castle
- Yoshie Munenobu, Yoshie Kagesuke, Nakajou Kageyasu


Commanders committed to Kagetora:
- Ashina Moritaka: head of the Ashina Clan
- Ayukawa Morinaga: master of Oobasawa Castle
- Daihouji Yoshiuji: head of the Dewa Daihouji Clan
- Horie Munechika (who later betrayed him): Suruga no Kami, master of Samegao Castle
- Honjou Hidetsuna: master of Numata Castle
- Honjou Saneyori
- Houjou Ujimasa, Houjou Ujiteru, Houjou Ujikuni: Kagetora's elder brothers, head and generals of the Houjou Clan
- Kaji Hidetsuna: nephew of Uesugi Kenshin, master of Kaji Castle
- Kanamari Chikatsuna: master of Sanjou Castle
- Kawada Shigechika: Houki no Kami
- Kitajou Takahiro, Kitajou Kagehiro
- Kurokawa Kiyozane: master of Kurokawa Castle
- Nagao Kagenao
- Sanbonji Sadanaga: head of the Sanbonji-Uesugi Clan, master of Fudouzan Castle, Iyo no Kami
- Shimodaira Shurinosuke: master of Jouhukuji Castle
- Takeda Katsuyori (who was later bribed by Kagekatsu and entered into an alliance with him): head of the Takeda Clan
- Uesugi Norimasa: Kenshin's adopted father, former Kantou Kanrei
- Uesugi Kagenobu: originally Nagao, head of the Koshin-Nagao family
- Uesugi Norishige: son of Uesugi Norimasa

On May 13th (June 18th), with the lines between the commanders drawn, Kagetora finally retreated from the Third Wing to the Otate and requested aid from his brother Houjou Ujimasa while ordering his troops to set fire to the lands around Kasugayama Castle. He attacked Kasugayama Castle with around 6000 troops on May 17th (June 22nd), but was repelled.

He regrouped and attacked again on the 22nd (June 27th) with the same result. Around this time, hostilities between Kagekatsu and Kagetora's forces also began within the broader region. In Kouzuke, Kitajou Takahiro and Kitajou Kagehiro (father and son) sent forth troops with their aim on Kunohe Castle. Kagekatsu had no troops to spare at this point, and Kagetora's side easily took several castles in Miyano and Ogawa. Kagetora's side had completed organization for drawing Houjou troops into Echigo at this point, but since the distance was great, the Houjou requested assistance from their ally Takeda Katsuyori. Katsuyori sent an advance guard of 20,000 under the command of Takeda Nobutoyo, which arrived at the Echigo-Shinshuu border on May 29th (July 4th).

Aside from the Houjou and Takeda, Kagetora also received assistance from Ashina Moritaka. However, Moritaka met dogged resistance from Kagekatsu's forces and was stopped in his tracks. Still, Kagetora held the advantage at this point. The only problem: Ujimasa had little interest in moving to the offensive.

Kagekatsu, at a disadvantage now that he was being attacked from three directions, took a big gamble. He sent an advance guard to Katsuyori's camp offering a large amount of money and Kouzuke's rice fields in exchange for a Kagekatsu-Takeda alliance. How Kagekatsu knew that Katsuyori was painfully short on funds after his ignominious defeat at the Battle of Nagashino to Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu is unknown. Katsuyori arrived at Kaidu Castle and conferred with Nobutoyo. He entered into an alliance with Kagekatsu on June 12th (July 16th).

Now that Kagekatsu's side had successfully bought Takeda, they no longer needed to watch their backs. On the day the alliance was made Kagekatsu took Noumine Castle, allowing him to communicate with Sakato Castle from Kasugayama Castle. On the following day, Kagetora's side lost Uesugi Kagenobu, and their situation worsened day by day. Kagekatsu pressed towards various castles held by Kagetora's forces in Ecchuu. Katsuyori continued peace negotiations with Kagekatsu at full tilt; they were concluded on June 29th (August 2nd), and he withdrew his troops on August 28th (September 29th).

In the following month, Ujimasa finally began moving in earnest. Houjou Ujiteru and Houjou Ujikuni set out for Echigo by Ujimasa's command. They crossed Mikuni Pass and took Kabasawa Castle, within striking distance of Sakato Castle. However, the castle was well-guarded by Kagekatsu's forces, and with the onset of winter the Houjou forces could not advance to Kasugayama.

Finally, with Ujikuni and Takahiro left behind to guard Kabasawa Castle and Kagehiro acting as rear guard, they retreated. The Takeda forces, withdrawing from the lands around Kasugayama Castle, loitered between Kasugayama/Otate and Sakato Castle, in the end acting as a deterrent against Kagetora and Houjou forces. At the end of the year (January in the Gregorian calendar) Kagekatsu married Katsuyori's younger sister.

Having skillfully removed external threats and gathered support within the clan, Kagekatsu decided that the internal war would be resolved before the snow thawed. On the other hand, Kagetora was losing both supporters and castles. On February 2nd (February 27, 1579) Kagekatsu ordered a general offensive against Kagetora at Otate. Kagehiro was killed.

Kagekatsu recaptured Kabasawa Castle from the Houjou. Kagetora escaped from Otate and, with no hope of relief from the Houjou, who were blocked off by snow, sent his eldest son along with Kenshin's adopted father Uesugi Norimasa to negotiate for peace. On the way to Kagekatsu's camp, they were surrounded by Kagekatsu's troops and killed (there are accounts that the order actually came from Kasugayama Castle). On his flight from Otate towards the Kantou, Kagetora stopped at Samegao Castle. There he was betrayed by its master, Horie Munechika, and committed suicide along with his family on March 24th (April 19th, 1579).

Though Kagekatsu won the internal war, he would continue to face resistance from Honjou Hidetsuna, Kanamari Chikatsuna and others, and would not have total control of the clan until a year later.

The Otate no Ran would become one of the underlying reasons for the destruction of the Takeda Clan and the drastic decline of the Uesugi Clan's power.

Note: Japanese dates given in this entry are based on the lunar calendar; Gregorian Calendar dates in () were calculated using NengoCalc. four hundred years ago, you were the ringleader of those who drove Kagetora to his death, were you not? The two of you started in mutual hatred, so I suppose that’s the only place where you could end up.”

“No!” Naoe raised his voice, glaring at Kousaka. “Mutual hatred...? I never hated him. I never hated him at all!”

“Then why did you steal Minako away from Kagetora? Did you want that woman so badly? So badly that you were willing to sever the bond between lord and retainer?”

“No...that’s not true! I—!”

Kousaka cut Naoe off coldly, “You went so far that you flew right past tragedy into comedy—you rape Minako, then force Kagetora into her body with kanshoukanshou (換生)

To possess another's body, driving out their soul, so as to be reborn with memories intact. Only Naoe of all the kanshousha has the power to perform kanshou on another soul., which is pregnant with your child.”

“...!”

“I’m not going to let you make the excuse that you had no other choice in the assault from Oda, Naoe. Of all things, you performed kanshou for Kagetora on Minako’s body. The body that you raped, that bore your child—Minako’s body. Yes, it was precisely the same as having Kagetora kill Minako. To drive the soul of your beloved out of her body in order to make that body yours and prolong your own life. Of course Kagetora was vehemently opposed to it. But with that abominable ability of yours, you overcame his objections. That abominable ability to perform kanshou for someone else!”

“...”

Naoe stood frozen, his eyes widening.

“You should be thankful that at least Kagetora didn’t go mad. Kenshin may have bestowed it upon you, but what an arrogant «power» it is. You used it as a tool for your loves and hates. Did you hate those two so much? Did you hate Kagetora so much...?!”

“Shut up!” Naoe shouted, with so much pain that he might well have spat out blood along with those words.

The smile suddenly vanished from the corners of Kousaka’s mouth.

He asked Naoe quietly as the other man wrestled with his anguish, “Did you hate Minako...?”

Naoe’s eyes abruptly flew open.

“Did you hate Minako, who won Kagetora’s love in those days of carnage? Minako, who eased Kagetora’s hardened heart? ...Did you hate her?”

“...”

“Who was it you really held in your arms?”

The expression fled from Naoe’s face.

The wind suddenly blew through the space between them.

Kousaka gazed at Naoe silently for a moment, then asked slowly, “Do you love him so much?”

“—”

“Was it with a heart twisted and maddened, in self-deception... Or...”

He received no reply.

For a moment he looked at Naoe with something like compassion.

Then he suddenly glanced away and focused on Takaya and Yuzuru. Kousaka gazed at the gentle light glowing from Takaya’s body as he stood there with Yuzuru’s hand in his.

The door would soon be closed—

“Date will probably offer their aid. You can use their strength to great advantage. Take the offer.”

“... Does Takeda really want an alliance with Date? Is it true that you’ve joined with Mogami?”

Kousaka’s laugh was a low rumble in his throat. “Who’s joined with Mogami? Helping the Mogami lordling was just a little business deal.”

“Business? What sort of business?”

“Naoe. Surely you’ve noticed it.”

And Naoe turned.

“That Oda is behind Mogami. I don’t think we should make light of the fact that Oda is the one pulling the strings from the shadows. Though that plan to transfer the capital does seem to be something the Mogami are plotting by themselves. Oda is likely unifying the onshou of the Northeast to fight against Takeda.”

“So you’re saying that you made a deal with Yoshiyasu in order to get information on Oda? You can’t mean that the bargain was—”

Kousaka looked at Naoe coldly.

“Yes. It’s exactly as you guessed.”

Naoe’s face abruptly stiffened. He seized Kousaka’s collar violently.

“You bargained to deal with us? Were you the one who attacked Kagetora-sama...and Jikou TempleJikou-ji (慈光寺)

Lit. Light of Mercy Temple

A temple of the Shingon school of Esoteric Buddhism located in the suburbs of Sendai. The head abbot of the temple is Kokuryou Keinosuke.

The temple is likely fictional. There are real temples named "Jikou", but apparently none in Sendai. last night?!”

“Humph. I never supposed that it’d be enough to kill Kagetora. But it seems to have become impetus for Kagetora to regain his «power».”

“Damn you! Do you understand what you did? You involved the abbot and his wife! His wife died. Someone died because of you!”

“Hot-tempered, aren’t you, Naoe,” Kousaka said with a faint, cruel smile. “Have you forgotten? We’re onshou of the SengokuSengoku (戦国)

The "warring states" period, lasting from 1467 to 1615, in which the warlords of Japan battled each other for the rule of the country.. On that battlefield, did we ever hesitate to kill anyone? What need do murderers have to pretend virtue at this late date?”

“Wh...!”

“You should think of it as a small unavoidable sacrifice for Kagetora’s sake. With a minimum of sacrifices, Kagetora has gotten the message that he must regain his «power» as soon as he can.”

Gnashing his teeth in anguish, Naoe thrust Kousaka violently away from him.

“... Date thinks you’ve betrayed them for Mogami. What will you do?”

“Give them proof of our innocence.” Kousaka’s expression was dismissive. “An alliance between Takeda and Date is necessary to counter Oda. Oda will probably one day be Date’s enemy as well. Lord Masamune must know this quite clearly.”

“...”

“Looks like tomorrow will be a tough day.” Kousaka began descending the stairs with those parting words.

Naoe said to his back, “Kagetora-sama will...probably never forgive you, Kousaka.”

Stopping, Kousaka turned to say over his shoulder, “Hmm, then I guess that makes two of us, Naoe.”

Kousaka vanished down the stairs with that last shot. Naoe looked after him, then turned back to Takaya and Yuzuru. —To regain his «power».

He bit his lip lightly.

(Kagetora-sama...)

“What. Thou wert hindered by Uesugi...!”

Mogami YoshiakiMogami Yoshiaki (最上義光) 1544 - 1614

A daimyo of Yamagata-han in the province of Dewa who fought for both Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. He fought Uesugi Kagekatsu as well as in the battle of Sekigahara in 1600 for Tokugawa alongside Date Masamune. His domain was expanded to 520,000 koku for his loyal service.

His son Mogami Iechika succeeded him upon his death of illness. raised his eyes sharply as he heard the report.

He was at a certain Japanese restaurant in Sendai. He had stopped in Sendai to check on the effectiveness of the curse barrier before heading for Tokyo, and called his son Yoshiyasu to him.

“And so thou shamelessly retreated?”

“—”

Yoshiyasu fell prostrate before his father. He had taken another spiritual vessel—a young man this time.

“Didst thou once again stand by uselessly, doing nothing about the Uesugi? I had thought that thou hadst dealt with them long ago! Thou worthless slave! Yet thou darest name thyself son of the Hawk of Dewa?”

Yoshiyasu could make no reply. He only tensed slightly as he trembled.

“By all rights, the «jike-kekkaijike-kekkai (地気結界)

Lit.: "earth-energy barrier"; one type of juso-kekkai which is erected for the purpose of manipulating the 'mood' or 'energy' of the earth, which in turn influences all living beings and spirits within its radius. It can be used to brainwash people, as in the case of a saimin-kekkai.» on Sendai should have been completed long ago! And yet thou art here while it lies incomplete.”

“But, Father...!”

“I shall not listen to thine excuses!” Yoshiaki interrupted flatly, and Yoshiaki closed his mouth. “I was wrong to overestimate thy spiritual powers. I had thought to wipe the slate clean of the strengths and weaknesses of thy past life and bestow upon thee one more chance to prove thy worth... I was wrong to ask this of thee. In truth, thou knows nothing of thy father’s heart. Thou wretch!”

“—”

“How much disappointment must thou heap on thy father before thou art satisfied...!”

Yoshiyasu glared down at the tatamitatami (畳)

Woven straw mats used as traditional Japanese flooring.

Japanese rooms are traditionally measured by the number of tatami mats laid out in it, the dimensions of which are 90 cm x 180 cm x 5 cm., not raising his eyes. His fists shook as he endured the humiliation. His father gazed at him silently for a moment, then forcefully expelled a sigh.

“’Twould be cruel of me to ask yet more from thee. I can change not thy natural ability. There is no other way. If my second son IechikaMogami Iechika (最上家親) 1582 - 1617

Also known as: 太郎四郎, Mogami Yoshichika (最上義親)

Second son of Mogami Yoshiaki who served Tokugawa Ieyasu from the age of 12. He was originally named Mogami Yoshichika, but was given the name Iechika by Ieyasu. In 1595 he became the vassal of Ieyasu's son, Tokugawa Hidetada.

His elder brother, Mogami Yoshiyasu was killed by their father, so Iechika became the 12th head of the Mogami Clan in 1614 as well as the second-generation lord of Yamagata-han.

He died suddenly at Yamagata-jou at the age of 36. His eldest son Mogami Yoshitoshi succeeded him, but internal strife had already begun within the Mogami Clan before his death, and by judgement of the Shogunate the Mogami Clan's land and status were forfeited. had but remained in this world...”

“...!”

Yoshiyasu’s eyes widened, and he unthinkingly moved forward on his knees to shout, “Father! I shall not give thee further reason for care! I, Yoshiyasu, will annihilate Uesugi’s Yasha-shuuYasha-shuu (夜叉衆)

The five kanshousha at the head of the Meikai Uesugi Army ordered by Uesugi Kenshin to hunt for the onshou who are disrupting the peace of modern-era Japan in a battle which has lasted four hundred years. Led by Uesugi Kagetora, with Naoe Nobutsuna, Kakizaki Haruie, Yasuda Nagahide, and Irobe Katsunaga. The name "Yasha" refers to soldiers in the army of Bishamonten, called "Yaksha". without fail! I will complete the curse on Sendai tomorrow! So I beg of thee! I beg of thee, Father!”

Yoshiaki gazed at Yoshiyasu coldly. “Naturally.”

“Father—”

“If thou canst not accomplish even this, then thou art not fit to bear the name of the son of Mogami. If thou dost understand this, then away from hence immediately. Until thou shouldst defeat Date and Uesugi, do not think to speak with me again.”

Yoshiyasu raised his head in terror and looked at his father’s face without meeting his eyes. His father raised his cup to his lips, indicating that he had nothing more to say.

Yoshiyasu bit his lip hard. His nails dug into the tatamitatami (畳)

Woven straw mats used as traditional Japanese flooring.

Japanese rooms are traditionally measured by the number of tatami mats laid out in it, the dimensions of which are 90 cm x 180 cm x 5 cm. as he silently swallowed against nauseating regret.

“...As you command.”

It took everything he had.

 

Stepping out of the Japanese restaurant, Yoshiyasu turned back towards where his father Yoshiaki was likely even now drinking sake with the members of the prefectural Diet. —The words that Kousaka had once said to him flitted across the back of his head.

“Do you not think that, after being alienated and murdered, you’re still just being used now that you’ve been resurrected?”

He wanted to believe that that was not true, but he bit his lip as he recalled his father’s cold features. His fear of his father had not changed. When he stood in front of Yoshiaki, he was immobilized by it.

Regret transformed into irritation. Yoshiyasu blamed his father’s rebuke on Kousaka.

(He might talk big, but ’tis almost as if he is not working to defeat them—...)

Though he had promised to deal with Uesugi’s Yasha-shuu, Kousaka had not killed even a single one of them. And Kagetora seemed to be still alive as well.

(’Tis not my fault, but his.)

Yoshiyasu raised his eyes sharply.

(Thou—)

Now that it had come to this, he had to complete the barrier over Sendai. Neither Mogami’s rule of the country nor the transfer of the capital mattered to him. He only wanted to be recognized by the father who had disinherited him. He only wanted to triumph.

(I shall certainly kill the Uesugi.)

He clenched his fists tightly. His father’s cold look was reflected in Yoshiyasu’s fiercely glaring eyes.

(Father—)

The direction of the wind seemed about to change.

People began to stir.

The papers the following morning announced the approval of the ‘Proposal for Transfer of the Capital’ by the prefectural assembly. Its passage two days after its submission was of unprecedented speed. The ‘Transfer of the Capital’ plan was splashed across all the headlines, and it made for big television news as well.

Mogami Yoshiaki and his cronies had apparently roused the mass media.

Scowling peripherally at all of this, Takaya and company set out to the meeting with Masamune.

 
Chiaki drove Naoe and Takaya in his Leopard, and they alighted in front of the front door of Date’s mansion.

A line of Date’s vassals were already waiting at the entrance, and one among them, Katakura KagetsunaKatakura Kagetsuna (片倉景綱) 1557 - 1615

Also known as: Katakura Kojuurou Kagetsuna (片倉小十郎景綱)

A military commander of the Sengoku era and hereditary vassal of the Date Clan. The Katakura family traditionally took the nickname of 'Kojuurou', so Katakura Kagetsuna is better known as Katakura Kojuurou.

Kojuurou first served Date Masamune's father, Date Terumune, as a junior page, then became Date Masamune's attendant in 1575. He was later appointed a strategist, and participated in most of Masamune's important wars where he rescued the Date Clan from many tight spots. His wisdom was extolled by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and his name was a byword for loyalty. (He was called 'Katakura Kagetsuna the Wise', and he, along with 'Date Shigezane the Brave', were named 'the twin jewels of the Date'.)

Kojuurou died in 1615 of illness., guided them inside.

As he walked along, Takaya half-turned as if suddenly realizing something. Naoe, following after him, asked, “What is it?”

“Eh? Ah, nothing—”

Takaya looked at Naoe with fresh eyes as a memory of Masamune and Kojuurou, master and retainer, surfaced in his mind.

“I was just thinking that you’re with me today.”

Naoe smiled quietly. "Even if anything should happen, I will not allow anyone to lay a finger on you. So set your mind at ease and do what you came here to do.

Takaya nodded, his tense expression easing, and said as he turned, “You don’t have to tell me. I’ll do it anyway.”

“Here,” Kojuurou said, kneeling in front of a paper sliding door. “Dono. Uesugi-dono is here.”

Kojuurou slid open the door at his lord’s response. All of the Date chief vassals were seated within.

Sitting directly in front of them was a one-eyed young man.

“I am glad that thou hast come, Uesugi-dono.”

Takaya glared at Masamune, his eyes razor-sharp.

The shishi odoshishishi odoshi (獅子脅し/鹿威し)

Lit: "lion threat"/"deer scarer"; the water fountains found in Japanese gardens that make rhythmic clacking sounds. They are usually made of bamboo and constructed on a pivot with water flowing into one end of the bamboo. The bamboo tube tips over when it fills, making a sharp sound. This was a construction originally designed to scare away deer grazing on plants in the garden. clacked.

 

“Let’s dispense with the long greetings, Lord Masamune. I came here today as Uesugi Kagetora to meet with you. Let’s get straight to what you want to say to me.”

Takaya was almost arrogantly calm before the One-Eyed Dragon. Since Masamune already knew the truth about him, there was nothing more to fear.

Masamune grinned.

“So this left eye of mine was not mistaken. When it meets eyes such as thine, my warrior’s blood is unwittingly stirred.”

“I’m honored. But anyhow, have you noticed? Sendai’s brainwashing is finally starting in earnest.”

“... About that—” and Masamune gravely began to tell the Date the information they had gathered so far. They had of course noticed the «jike-kekkai». They also spoke of the ‘fox-user woman’ and of the times they had scuffled. At around two last night, they had skirmished with Mogami Yoshiyasu at the spot slated to be the southeast barrier point, the Northeast Bullet Train overpass, and they spoke of how they had forced her to retreat.

“Uesugi-dono. Dost thou know of Mogami’s plans? What follows the brainwashing of Sendai?”

Takaya looked at Naoe behind him, who had thus far remained silent.

“About that, I think it’ll be better to let the person who actually heard it from Mogami Yoshiaki himself tell you.”

“What? Heard it from mine uncle?”

Pressed by Takaya, Naoe opened his mouth to speak.

“I am Naoe NobutsunaNaoe Nobutsuna (直江信綱) ? - Oct. 6, 1581

Also known as: Nagao Kagetaka (長尾景孝), Nagao Toukurou (長尾藤九郎)
Title: Yamato no Kami (大和守)

Historically: Son of Nagao Akikage, he became head of the Sousha-Nagao Clan at a young age. He later (around 1545) passed the position to his younger brother Nagao Kagefusa. When the clan was destroyed by Takeda Shingen and their territory lost, the family escaped into Echigo. There Kagefusa became a monk, and Kagetaka was adopted by Naoe Sanetsuna when he married Sanetsuna's daughter, Osen-no-Kata. He succeeded his adopted father as master of Yoita Castle in 1577 and was a vassal of Uesugi Kenshin. He promptly took the side of Uesugi Kagekatsu during the war for succession after Kenshin's death and mobilized the members of the Naoe Clan at the castle to subdue Kagetora's troops.

After the intra-house war and Kagekatsu's victory, a question of reward was called into question. Yasuda Akimoto, one of Kagekatsu's trusted commanders, had promised rewards to Shibata Shigeie, Mouri Hidehiro, and others to convince them to join Kagekatsu's side. However, Yamazaki Hidenori, Naoe, and others objected, for they had risked life and limb at Kasugayama Castle from the very beginning of the battle, while Shibata Shigeie and the others had been lured by promise of reward from Yasuda Akimoto.

Yasuda Akimoto committed suicide when he could not keep his promise of reward. Later, Mouri Hidehiro, carrying a grudge for his death, murdered Yamazaki Hidenori at Kasugayama Castle; Naoe, who was with him at the time and took up a sword to defend himself, was killed as well. His death ended the Naoe line, which Kagekatsu later resurrected by marrying Naoe's widow, Osen-no-Kata to Higuchi Kanetsugu and commanding him to take the Naoe name.

In Mirage of Blaze: According to Kousaka Danjou, and Houjou Ujiteru he was the ringleader of Uesugi Kagekatsu's forces in the Otate no Ran. He is now Uesugi Kagetora's protector and one of the Yasha-shuu under his command. He alone, as Kagetora's protector, was given the power to perform kanshou on other souls, a power he used to force Kagetora's soul into Minako's body., a retainer of the Uesugi Clan. Allow me to explain,” Naoe began, and revealed the particulars of Mogami’s ‘Transfer of the Capital Plan’ to Masamune. Masamune and the others leaned forward attentively, but the color slowly drained out of their faces as they listened.

“Doth mine uncle...truly plan to take such a foolish course of...” Masamune said disbelievingly.

Naoe continued, “Mogami Yoshiaki and Mogami Yoshiyasu appear to have already begun using ‘kinrin no hou’ to manipulate the mass media. Even before that, he used the power and connections of Diet Representative Ueshima, his spiritual vessel, to rouse influential people in the business and political worlds in Sendai as well as Tokyo. If the «jike-kekkai» is completed, all organizations will move towards transfer of the capital starting from the individual level. In that case all power will doubtlessly be collected in the hands of one person: Diet Representative Ueshima—namely Mogami Yoshiaki.”

Takaya added, “These old men like Ueshima who’re members of the Diet should refuse to become spiritual vessels, but he’s still helping Mogami. Seriously, if this continues, this country will be under Mogami’s thumb. I’m not very good with words, so—”

Masamune crossed his arms firmly. “So ‘tis Mogami’s aim to become the ’Shogun’ of this era? And build the Mogami Bakufubakufu (幕府)

Lit.: "tent government", the government of the shogun, who is the 'supreme general of the samurai'. Starting from Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first shogun of the Kamakura shogunate, until the Meiji Restoration, shoguns and their bakufu held the pratical power in Japan and relegated the emperor to the position of figurehead.?”

“Even if a ‘transfer of the capital’ is the right thing to do, Mogami’s methods are high-handed and radical. Those who do not obey and those who interfere will be murdered by the kokokoko (狐蠱)

spirit foxes one after another, and tyranny will be the result. If such a thing should actually happen, it will only result in social chaos. Though that is probably Mogami’s goal—”

Takaya agreed, his voice hard, “In the end, they’re still living in the Sengoku EraSengoku (戦国)

The "warring states" period, lasting from 1467 to 1615, in which the warlords of Japan battled each other for the rule of the country.. And word is that the Mogami onryouonryou (怨霊)

Lit.: "vengeful ghost"; the spirits of those who died in the Sengoku period who are still so filled with rage and hatred that they continue to exist in the world as vengeful spirits instead of being purified and reborn. will be migrating to Sendai soon. Of course, they’re planning to wipe out the Date and make this their stronghold.”

“... A general offensive, then?”

All the retainers present tensed. Masamune hummed for a moment with a hand on his chin.

“Dono. If Mogami hath formed a coalition with Ashina and other clans to encircle Date as Uesugi-dono hath said, they will inevitably move to attack Date at the same time,” Kojuurou said, and Date Shigezane continued:

“... For now, if we could just escape Ashina’s siege—”

“Negotiating with Ashina is impossible. Even if ’twere not so, their «power» is formed of malice towards the Date. They will never consider a deal.”

Masamune slowly murmured, “Takeda, then?”

All present turned their attention to Masamune. Masamune raised his eyes to return the gaze of his row of commanders.

“We will have Takeda draw Ashina away, then attack in a pincer movement. If we should accept Takeda’s proposal, we will have fighting strength in one way or another.”

“But, Dono—!” Unsurprisingly, Shigezane moved forward from his kneeling position. “Takeda—this man called Kousaka—may be in collusion with Mogami. We may be heading into a trap if we should take any unsound steps.”

“On that score—” Naoe weighed in, and the attention of the Date turned to him—“you need not be so anxious. Takeda’s intentions should be true. Better that you use the advancing Takeda.”

“On what dost thou base thy conclusion?”

“Because the one he’s in collusion with is Mogami Yoshiyasu.”

Takaya turned to Naoe as if mesmerized. But Naoe continued, “Kousaka appears to have accepted a private deal with Yoshiyasu. Mogami was aware of our movements. So if Kousaka, who is himself kanshoushakanshousha (換生者)

Those who possess others by driving out the soul from a body and making it theirs.

Unlike normal spirits, kanshousha cannot exchange bodies at will; they can only switch to another host body when their current body dies. Because kanshousha become the owners of their bodies, choubuku does not work on them. It is, however, still possible to exorcise kanshousha when they are in spirit-form (i.e. between possessions)., agreed to remove us from the picture—”

Takaya’s expression tensed as he listened. He stared at Naoe’s serene profile, eyes widening. It was Masamune who asked, “Then what did Kousaka-dono and Yoshiyasu exchange, if ’twas not us?”

Naoe’s eyes glinted.

“Perhaps—information on Oda.”

“!”

Everyone drew in a startled breath.

“Information on...!” “Lord Oda NobunagaOda Nobunaga (織田信長) 1534 - 1582

Also called: Oda Kippoushi
Title: Kazusa no Suke, Owari no Kami

Historically: The first of the "Three Unifiers"; born in Owari to a samurai, his unbridled, ruthless ambitious and military tactical genius enabled him to gain control of the imperial court in 1573 after having driven the shogun out of Kyoto. His seal read "the realm subjected to military power". Murdered at the age of forty-nine by his vassal Akechi Mitsuhide in the Honnou-ji in Kyoto.?” “Is Mogami by chance connected to Lord Nobunaga as well?!”

Naoe nodded firmly. The Date vassals visibly blanched. Directly in front of them, Masamune sat with his single eye staring intently at nothing, apparently at a loss for words.

The clack of the shishi odoshishishi odoshi (獅子脅し/鹿威し)

Lit: "lion threat"/"deer scarer"; the water fountains found in Japanese gardens that make rhythmic clacking sounds. They are usually made of bamboo and constructed on a pivot with water flowing into one end of the bamboo. The bamboo tube tips over when it fills, making a sharp sound. This was a construction originally designed to scare away deer grazing on plants in the garden. clove through the frozen air.

The next words came from Takaya.

“Lord Masamune. You said that you wanted to protect Sendai. We came here today because we trust you. We cannot surrender this city to Mogami, to say nothing of handing it over to Nobunaga.”

Masamune returned Uesugi Kagetora’s taut gaze. Takaya stated forthrightly, “We are asking you to lend the Uesugi your strength.”

“...”

Masamune felt the impact of those words more absolutely than any hundred equivocal exchanges. By all rights, they should have come from the Date.

An awakening tiger sat right in front of him with its teeth concealed. Masamune smiled softly against the swelling tension.

His voice was anything but soft.

“You shall have it.”

Chapter 6: The Blazing Grove

“What?! Masamune hath begun a neutralization ritual at KyougamineKyougamine (経ヶ峯)

The area around Date Masamune's mausoleum, the Zuihouden, located in Sendai City. The mausoleum itself lies within a grove of cedar trees. Just a little ways away are the mausoleums of Masamune's son and grandson, the 2nd and 3rd generation lords of Sendai.?!” Mogami YoshiakiMogami Yoshiaki (最上義光) 1544 - 1614

A daimyo of Yamagata-han in the province of Dewa who fought for both Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. He fought Uesugi Kagekatsu as well as in the battle of Sekigahara in 1600 for Tokugawa alongside Date Masamune. His domain was expanded to 520,000 koku for his loyal service.

His son Mogami Iechika succeeded him upon his death of illness. shouted when he received the report from the messenger.

“Is this true? Art thou certain?!”

A room in a hotel within the city. Yoshiyasu’s messenger reported rapidly, “‘Tis certain. Date is performing the dual rituals of ’Daiitoku Myouou-houDaiitoku Myouou-hou (大威徳明王法)

The ritual of Daiitoku Myouou, the King of Wisdom of the West, one of the joint spells used to neutralize the kinrin no hou of Dakiniten-hou.’ and ‘Gouzanze Myouou-houGouzanze Myouou-hou (降三世明王法)

The ritual of Gouzanze Myouou, the King of Wisdom of the East, used to neutralize the kinrin no hou of Dakiniten-hou.’ with the intention of breaking through Lord Yoshiyasu’s ‘kinrin no houKinrin no hou (金輪の法)

Lit.: "Method of metal rings"; a Dakiniten spell using spirit foxes to induce mass hypnotic suggestion. In ancient times, performed at the emperor's enthronement.’. Further, the Uesugi have evidently started to dissolve the «jike-kekkaijike-kekkai (地気結界)

Lit.: "earth-energy barrier"; one type of juso-kekkai which is erected for the purpose of manipulating the 'mood' or 'energy' of the earth, which in turn influences all living beings and spirits within its radius. It can be used to brainwash people, as in the case of a saimin-kekkai.».”

“What!”

Ueshima’s face twisted. Yoshiaki had never imagined that Date would counterattack like this. Neither Date nor Uesugi should know of his true objective.

But Naoe, still in YamagataYamagata-shi (山形市)

Lit.: "Mountain-shaped", the City of Yamagata is the capital of Yamagata Prefecture, founded in 1889., should have succumbed to Ohigashi-no-KataYoshihime (義姫) 1547? 1548? - 1623

Also known as: Ohigashi-no-Kata (お東の方), nickname—Demon Princess of the Ouu (奥羽の鬼姫), Hoshunin (保春院).

Mother of Date Masamune, daughter of Mogami Yoshimori and younger sister of Mogami Yoshiaki, Yoshihime was born in Yamagata Castle in Dewa. She was given in marriage at the age of 19 to Date Terumune and bore him two sons, Date Masamune and Date Kojirou. She hated her first-born, Masamune, due to his one-eyed state, and favored his younger brother Kojirou. There was additional tension between them due to Yoshihime leaking information to her relatives in the Mogami Clan even while they were fighting with the Date Clan. In 1585, upon Terumune's death, she decided to have Masamune killed to allow Kojirou to become head of the Date clan.

In 1590, when Masamune was participating in Toyotomi Hideyoshi's campaign against Odawara Castle, Yoshihime personally brought Masamune a meal laced with poison. Though Masamune consumed the poison, he was able to counteract it with the antidote. He then had Kojirou commit seppuku. Afterwards, Yoshihime returned to the Mogami Clan.

In 1614, upon Mogami Yoshiaki's death, internal strife split the Mogami Clan. In 1622, Yoshihime could no longer sustain her status in the Mogami Clan, and asked Masamune to return, which he allowed. She went to live in Sendai Castle and died there a year later at the age of 76.

It was thought from the contents of the letters and poems mother and son exchanged that Yoshihime was reconciliated with Masamune in her latter years.’s hypnotic suggestion and been made a servant of Mogami by now.

“How doth Yoshiyasu?!”

“Lord Yoshiyasu immediately performed ‘Dakiniten-houDakiniten-hou (ダキニ天法)

One type of the secret teachings (mikkyou) of Esoteric Buddhism which calls on Dakini and can be used to predict someone's time of death as well as to cast a death curse on someone. Dakiniten spells are among the strongest dark-magic spells and are jealously guarded by its practioners.

The high priests of the Shingon sect at Tou-ji used Dakiniten-hou to create spells of protection for the Emperor. These most secret of secret spells were incorporated into kinrin no hou, performed with kanchou at their enthronement.
’ to counter Date. He hath already dispatched soldiers to Kyougamine, but Date’s perimeter hath been fortified, and ’tis a hard battle...”

“Feh! What cunning, that cursed Date!” Yoshiaki’s fists shook. “And the Uesugi? Can they be held back?”

“Mercy...because our enemy are kanshoushakanshousha (換生者)

Those who possess others by driving out the soul from a body and making it theirs.

Unlike normal spirits, kanshousha cannot exchange bodies at will; they can only switch to another host body when their current body dies. Because kanshousha become the owners of their bodies, choubuku does not work on them. It is, however, still possible to exorcise kanshousha when they are in spirit-form (i.e. between possessions)., by their strength alone the soldiers stationed in SendaiSendai-shi (仙台市)

The capital city of Miyagi Prefecture, it is also the largest city in the northeast region of Japan. It is home to one million people, and is aptly nicknamed Mori no Miyako, the Capital of Trees. are...”

“Useless wretches!” Yoshiaki roared, then commanded decisively, “This Sendai, which hath finally begun moving into my hands—my plans shall not be interrupted. Call the soldiers of YamagataYamagata-shi (山形市)

Lit.: "Mountain-shaped", the City of Yamagata is the capital of Yamagata Prefecture, founded in 1889.! I will destroy Date in one blow!”

“Yes, my lord!”

“Send word to Ashina! ’Tis time to tighten the noose around Date. Tell them to invade Sendai!”

“Yes, my lord!”

Glaring at the lights of Sendai spreading outside his window, Yoshiaki gnashed his teeth.

“Masamune, thou wretch... I shall not allow the likes of thee to interfere.”

At Kyougamine, the ‘Rendan-houRendan-hou (連壇法)

Lit.: "Joined platforms method": two rituals performed at the same time in counterpoint to each other. Performing the goma-dan rituals of Gouzanze Myouou-hou and Daiitoku Myouou-hou together is one example.’ continued. Two hours had already passed. Flames leapt brightly in the two fire-wheel platformsKarin-dan (火輪壇)

Lit.: "fire-wheel platform"; a triangular goma platform constructed for the neutralization of the 'kinrin no hou' curse. Its colors are blue, black, and red.. The monks chanted their mantras without pause. On the platforms, Choukai and Keishun continued the rituals even as the blood climbed higher and higher on their increasingly ghastly-looking faces.

Meanwhile, Masamune and company had put Yuzuru, whose condition was odd, to sleep behind the curtain.

“What a terrible fever,” Kojuurou said to Masamune. “He was in fine health just earlier. I cannot think but that this is caused by the ceremony.”

“He hath worsened, so it seems, little by little as the ceremony progressed. ’Tis almost as if Narita-dono hath taken the curse upon himself.”

A great power lies concealed within him.

So Keishun and Choukai had said of Yuzuru. Though all of them were still in the same place, only Yuzuru’s condition had declined so drastically. Surely there was a connection.

(But what by the heavens is happening here...?)

“Dono!”

Masamune returned to himself as someone called to him. The feverish Yuzuru opened his eyes. He appeared to have finally regained consciousness.

“Art thou awake, Narita-dono?”

“How dost thou feel?”

Yuzuru looked dimly at Kojuurou, then Masamune.

“Lord Masamune...”

“Lie still for the nonce. We will protect this place—”

Yuzuru did not yet appear to have regained full consciousness, and hazy confusion filled his eyes.

He suddenly spoke as if in delirium: “The foxes...are moving.”

Masamune and Kojuurou’s eyes widened sharply.

“Eh?”

Yuzuru’s eyes seemed fixed on somewhere far away, but his voice was oddly clear as he said, “DakinitenDakini (荼吉尼/茶枳尼/荼枳尼)

Also known as: Dakiniten (荼吉尼天)

Dakini is a Buddhist deity who was originally an Indian goddess of agriculture. She later became a goddess of gender and lust who ate human flesh or the human heart. She was subjugated by the God of Fortune and allowed to eat the hearts of the dead.

Dakini was originally associated with the jackle in India, but since jackles are not native to Japan, she became associated with the fox instead (it's said that she turned into a white fox after being subjugated by the God of Fortune). It's thought that the worship of Dakini was then meshed into the worship of spirit foxes that originally existed in Japan. The spells of Dakini, Dakiniten-hou, are among the strongest curse-spells. has...sent her kokokoko (狐蠱)

spirit foxes. Someone is counterattacking with ‘Dakiniten-hou’. The foxes will be upon Kyougamine soon!”

“What!”

Yuzuru abruptly sat up. Kojuurou hurriedly moved to offer his assistance, but Yuzuru declined and slowly stood on his own.

“Narita-dono...!”

“The foxes are coming. Very soon,” Yuzuru said very clearly, and walked towards the goma-dangoma-dan (護摩壇)

Lit.: "Rite of Buddhist cedar-stick burning platform"; enormous pyres used in Esoteric Buddhism for public prayer, made up of thousands of cedar wooden sticks with inscriptions of people's prayers. These rites originated in India as a way of making offerings to the gods.

There are various types of goma rituals, including those used for prayers for good health, fortune, and peace, as well as those used for exorcisms and summoning the protection of the gods..

“!”

Masamune and Kojuurou couldn’t quite believe their eyes. Golden tendrils of light rose from Yuzuru’s body. The threads of light intertwined in the air and reached up into empty space. Enveloped by this golden light, Yuzuru walked towards the two fire-wheel platform as if called by something there.

Kojuurou shouted, “Dono! There!”

“!”

Then, as if they had been waiting for Yuzuru, the flames within the two fire-wheel platforms surged with earth-shattering energy. They rose to a height of nearly five meters, flickering wildly.

“Aaaah!”

Everyone present shouted involuntarily. In the next instant, the huge gomagoma-dan (護摩壇)

Lit.: "Rite of Buddhist cedar-stick burning platform"; enormous pyres used in Esoteric Buddhism for public prayer, made up of thousands of cedar wooden sticks with inscriptions of people's prayers. These rites originated in India as a way of making offerings to the gods.

There are various types of goma rituals, including those used for prayers for good health, fortune, and peace, as well as those used for exorcisms and summoning the protection of the gods. fires had taken on the forms of the terrible, wrathful Wisdom Kings!

“Th-these are...!”

Gouzanze MyououGouzanze Myouou (降三世明王)

Also known as: Trailokyavijaya Vidya-raja, Conqueror of the Three Worlds

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the east, his name signifies victory over enemies of the three worlds of the manifested universe, which are the celestial, earthly, and infernal realms. He is a wrathful god whose color is blue. He is generally depicted with three faces, eight arms, and two of his hands crossed at his breast in the mudra known as vajrahumkara (dairikikei 大力契, or "vow of immense strength" in Japanese).

His wisdom is the adarsa-jnana (大円鏡智), or "great perfect mirror wisdom", which is the wisdom to clearly elucidate all things.. Daiitoku MyououDaiitoku Myouou (大威徳明王)

Also known as: Yamantaka Vidya-raja, Conqueror of Death, Vajrabhairava, Rokusokuson (六足尊)—"Venerable Six-Footed One".

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the west. He is the wrathful manifestation of Amida Nyorai and is represented with six faces, six arms, and six legs. He rides a sacred cow or buffalo and is worshipped as a god of victory. He fights pain, poisons, snakes, and dragons.

Sometimes represented with the makouin/bakouin, or "horse-mouth mudra" (馬口印).

His wisdom is the pratyaveksana-jnana (妙観察智), or "wisdom of wondrous observation"..

What had appeared in the ‘Gouzanze Myouou-houGouzanze Myouou-hou (降三世明王法)

The ritual of Gouzanze Myouou, the King of Wisdom of the East, used to neutralize the kinrin no hou of Dakiniten-hou.’ fire-wheel platform officiated by Choukai was the three-faced, eight-armed figure of Gouzanze MyououGouzanze Myouou (降三世明王)

Also known as: Trailokyavijaya Vidya-raja, Conqueror of the Three Worlds

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the east, his name signifies victory over enemies of the three worlds of the manifested universe, which are the celestial, earthly, and infernal realms. He is a wrathful god whose color is blue. He is generally depicted with three faces, eight arms, and two of his hands crossed at his breast in the mudra known as vajrahumkara (dairikikei 大力契, or "vow of immense strength" in Japanese).

His wisdom is the adarsa-jnana (大円鏡智), or "great perfect mirror wisdom", which is the wisdom to clearly elucidate all things., his hands crossed in the vajrahumkara mudramudra (印)

Literally: "seal"; symbolic gestures usually made with the hands that imparts a specific quality to the user. In Esoteric Buddhism, each deity has his or her own mudra, which is used in conjunction with a mantra to perform a specific spell.. Gouzanze MyououGouzanze Myouou (降三世明王)

Also known as: Trailokyavijaya Vidya-raja, Conqueror of the Three Worlds

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the east, his name signifies victory over enemies of the three worlds of the manifested universe, which are the celestial, earthly, and infernal realms. He is a wrathful god whose color is blue. He is generally depicted with three faces, eight arms, and two of his hands crossed at his breast in the mudra known as vajrahumkara (dairikikei 大力契, or "vow of immense strength" in Japanese).

His wisdom is the adarsa-jnana (大円鏡智), or "great perfect mirror wisdom", which is the wisdom to clearly elucidate all things. was the Wisdom King who had surrendered the corrupting thoughts of avarice, rage, and ignorance in the service of Diamond RealmDiamond Realm (金剛界)

Also known as: Kongoukai, Vajradhatu

A metaphysical space inhabited by the Five Wisdom Kings described in the Diamond Crown Sutra. It represents the wisdom of Mahavairocana, which with the hardness and purity of diamonds can crush all earthly desires and illusions. Dainichi NyoraiDainichi Buddha (大日如来)

Also known as: Mahavairocana, Dainichi Nyorai, Vairocana, Daibutsu

Mahavairocana is the Cosmic Buddha who represents the center or zenith and is especially important to the Shingon school of Esoteric Buddhism. He was worshiped in Japan from as early as the Heian Period, and his Mahavairocana Sutra forms the basis for the rituals of the Shingon School.

Dainichi's characteristic hand gesture is the index finger of the left hand clasped by the five fingers of the right, symbolizing the unity of earth, water, fire, air, and spiritual consciousness.. Among the Wisdom Kings, he was second in rank only to Fudou MyououFudou Myouou (不動明王)

Also known as: Acala, Acalanatha Vidya-raja, The Immovable

Fudou Myouou is the chief of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the center. He is the destroyer of delusion and protector of Buddhism; he is called The Immovable because he is unmoved by carnal temptations. He seeks to transform anger into salvation, and is usually depicted as a fiercely-scowling figure with a demon-subduing sword in one hand and a rope in the other. He is worshiped as a manifestation of Dainichi Nyorai.
and had subjugated DaijizaitenDaijizaiten (大自在天)

Also known as: Mahesvara, Mahabharata, Shiva

One of the aspects of Shiva, the Hindu god of destruction, who was adopted into Buddhism as a protector of Buddhist teachings and one of the Juuniten. According to Esoteric Buddhism, he was vanquished by Gouzanze Myouou, the conqueror of earthly desires, for deluding earthly beings with his religious doctrines., also known as the god Shiva, on Dainichi NyoraiDainichi Buddha (大日如来)

Also known as: Mahavairocana, Dainichi Nyorai, Vairocana, Daibutsu

Mahavairocana is the Cosmic Buddha who represents the center or zenith and is especially important to the Shingon school of Esoteric Buddhism. He was worshiped in Japan from as early as the Heian Period, and his Mahavairocana Sutra forms the basis for the rituals of the Shingon School.

Dainichi's characteristic hand gesture is the index finger of the left hand clasped by the five fingers of the right, symbolizing the unity of earth, water, fire, air, and spiritual consciousness.’s behalf.

Meanwhile, the six-faced, six-armed Daiitoku MyououDaiitoku Myouou (大威徳明王)

Also known as: Yamantaka Vidya-raja, Conqueror of Death, Vajrabhairava, Rokusokuson (六足尊)—"Venerable Six-Footed One".

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the west. He is the wrathful manifestation of Amida Nyorai and is represented with six faces, six arms, and six legs. He rides a sacred cow or buffalo and is worshipped as a god of victory. He fights pain, poisons, snakes, and dragons.

Sometimes represented with the makouin/bakouin, or "horse-mouth mudra" (馬口印).

His wisdom is the pratyaveksana-jnana (妙観察智), or "wisdom of wondrous observation". had appeared in Keishun’s fire-wheel platform. He was riding on the back of a water buffalo, and his hands were set in the ritual makouin. This was the protector of virtue and punisher of evil, the manifestation of the mighty Buddha of Endless Light and Life (Amida NyoraiAmida Nyorai (阿弥陀如来)

Also known as: Amitabha, Buddha of Infinite Light and Life

A celestial buddha described in the scriptures of the Mahayana school of Buddhism who became a buddha after achieving infinite merits from good deeds in countless lives as a monk named Dharmakara. He created the Pure Land, where those who called upon him could go after rebirth and be instructed in the Dharma, thereby becoming bodhisattvas and buddhas in their turn.) as a Wisdom King, Daiitoku MyououDaiitoku Myouou (大威徳明王)

Also known as: Yamantaka Vidya-raja, Conqueror of Death, Vajrabhairava, Rokusokuson (六足尊)—"Venerable Six-Footed One".

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the west. He is the wrathful manifestation of Amida Nyorai and is represented with six faces, six arms, and six legs. He rides a sacred cow or buffalo and is worshipped as a god of victory. He fights pain, poisons, snakes, and dragons.

Sometimes represented with the makouin/bakouin, or "horse-mouth mudra" (馬口印).

His wisdom is the pratyaveksana-jnana (妙観察智), or "wisdom of wondrous observation"..

The two Wisdom Kings who had taken shape in the flames stood directly facing Yuzuru. Yuzuru, enveloped by that golden light, looked straight up at them with no trace of agitation in his bearing.

Yuzuru quietly raised his left arm. He pointed at the empty sky as if in command.

The two flames suddenly swelled and climbed as if to engulf the sky. The two Wisdom Kings spread across Sendai’s night sky like a mantle over Kyougamine.

(What...!)

Masamune and company gasped and shivered.

Yuzuru solemnly watched over them with wide, god-touched eyes.

The Exalted Gouzanze MyououGouzanze Myouou (降三世明王)

Also known as: Trailokyavijaya Vidya-raja, Conqueror of the Three Worlds

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the east, his name signifies victory over enemies of the three worlds of the manifested universe, which are the celestial, earthly, and infernal realms. He is a wrathful god whose color is blue. He is generally depicted with three faces, eight arms, and two of his hands crossed at his breast in the mudra known as vajrahumkara (dairikikei 大力契, or "vow of immense strength" in Japanese).

His wisdom is the adarsa-jnana (大円鏡智), or "great perfect mirror wisdom", which is the wisdom to clearly elucidate all things.—

The Exalted Daiitoku MyououDaiitoku Myouou (大威徳明王)

Also known as: Yamantaka Vidya-raja, Conqueror of Death, Vajrabhairava, Rokusokuson (六足尊)—"Venerable Six-Footed One".

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the west. He is the wrathful manifestation of Amida Nyorai and is represented with six faces, six arms, and six legs. He rides a sacred cow or buffalo and is worshipped as a god of victory. He fights pain, poisons, snakes, and dragons.

Sometimes represented with the makouin/bakouin, or "horse-mouth mudra" (馬口印).

His wisdom is the pratyaveksana-jnana (妙観察智), or "wisdom of wondrous observation".—

Had descended in the skies over Sendai.

 

“Kagetora-sama! There!”

“Huh?”

Takaya looked up at Naoe’s shout.

“Holy...!” he gasped. The gigantic forms of the two Wisdom Kings had appeared in the night sky over the city.

“Wh-what the hell is that?!”

“Gouzanze MyououGouzanze Myouou (降三世明王)

Also known as: Trailokyavijaya Vidya-raja, Conqueror of the Three Worlds

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the east, his name signifies victory over enemies of the three worlds of the manifested universe, which are the celestial, earthly, and infernal realms. He is a wrathful god whose color is blue. He is generally depicted with three faces, eight arms, and two of his hands crossed at his breast in the mudra known as vajrahumkara (dairikikei 大力契, or "vow of immense strength" in Japanese).

His wisdom is the adarsa-jnana (大円鏡智), or "great perfect mirror wisdom", which is the wisdom to clearly elucidate all things. and Daiitoku MyououDaiitoku Myouou (大威徳明王)

Also known as: Yamantaka Vidya-raja, Conqueror of Death, Vajrabhairava, Rokusokuson (六足尊)—"Venerable Six-Footed One".

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the west. He is the wrathful manifestation of Amida Nyorai and is represented with six faces, six arms, and six legs. He rides a sacred cow or buffalo and is worshipped as a god of victory. He fights pain, poisons, snakes, and dragons.

Sometimes represented with the makouin/bakouin, or "horse-mouth mudra" (馬口印).

His wisdom is the pratyaveksana-jnana (妙観察智), or "wisdom of wondrous observation".... Could that be—!”

Takaya turned to Naoe. “Kyougamine... Is that the true power of the ‘rendan-hou’?”

“But the ShugenShugendou (修験道)

Lit.: "The path of discipline and trial"; a Japanese religious school incorporating Shinto and Buddhist concepts which prays for the divine protection of the gods, with the ultimate goal of gaining supernatural powers through mountain asceticism. It holds that enlightenment is obtained by the study of the relationship between Man and Nature and was founded by Ozunu Enno around 650-700 CE. priests of HaguroHaguro-san (羽黒山)

One of the three sacred mountains of Dewa, a major pilgrimage destination for followers of Shugendou. It contains a 600-year old Five-Story Pagoda, built of wood without a single nail. do not have such enormous powers. To make them manifest so clearly...” For a moment Naoe was speechless. “There’s just no way... What has happened? Who in the world performed a spell of this magnitude?!”

“Yuzuru...!”

At Takaya’s murmur, Naoe’s gaze shifted to him in surprise.

“Isn’t it...Yuzuru? This mighty power... Isn’t that Yuzuru’s doing—?”

“...Yuzuru-san...”

Kousaka’s words abruptly echoed in the back of his mind.

“Narita Yuzuru is a menace to the Roku Dou SekaiRoku Dou Sekai (六道世界)

Also known as: Roku Dou Kai (六道界), Roku Dou (六道)

Lit. "Six Path Worlds" or just "Six Paths"; a Buddhist belief stemming from Hinduism which says that all beings are trapped within a cycle of life and death and are born into one of six realms until they are enlightened and can break free from the cycle. The six realms are: Jigoku Dou, Gaki Dou, Chikushou Dou, Ashura Dou, Nin Dou, and Ten Dou..”

This? Is this what he was talking about? This terrifying «power» with the ability to awaken the Wisdom Kings and call on their presence?

A cold shiver ran down his spine, and he gazed up at the awe-inspiring forms of the Wisdom Kings towering above the city.

“! Naoe!”

“?”

He looked up at the sky in the opposite direction, where ominous, palely-glowing clouds had appeared. No, they were not clouds; they were...

(Foxes...!)

The ‘koko’ of Mogami YoshiyasuMogami Yoshiyasu (最上義康) 1575 - 1611

Mogami Yoshiyasu was the eldest son and heir of Mogami Yoshiaki, but the two were not on good terms. In 1611, while en route from house arrest to Mount Kouya, he was attacked and badly wounded. He killed himself, crying "Damn you, cruel Father!"!

Takaya and Naoe both shivered.

A mass of ‘koko’...Mogami had begun his attack on Kyougamine with ‘Dakiniten-hou’.

But on a terrifying scale. They stretched across the sky for about a kilometer. Where in the world was Yoshiyasu getting so much power? The mass of ‘koko’ coalesced into the shape of one gigantic fox with lightning crackling from its body. It drew closer and closer, filled with terrifying spiritual energy.

“We seem to have underestimated Yoshiyasu, huh...”

Going at someone like him with his bare hands had been...Takaya recalled his recklessness with trepidation.

The ‘koko’ savagely attacked the Wisdom Kings. Gouzanze MyououGouzanze Myouou (降三世明王)

Also known as: Trailokyavijaya Vidya-raja, Conqueror of the Three Worlds

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the east, his name signifies victory over enemies of the three worlds of the manifested universe, which are the celestial, earthly, and infernal realms. He is a wrathful god whose color is blue. He is generally depicted with three faces, eight arms, and two of his hands crossed at his breast in the mudra known as vajrahumkara (dairikikei 大力契, or "vow of immense strength" in Japanese).

His wisdom is the adarsa-jnana (大円鏡智), or "great perfect mirror wisdom", which is the wisdom to clearly elucidate all things. swung his six arms in mighty blows. The bellow of Daiitoku MyououDaiitoku Myouou (大威徳明王)

Also known as: Yamantaka Vidya-raja, Conqueror of Death, Vajrabhairava, Rokusokuson (六足尊)—"Venerable Six-Footed One".

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the west. He is the wrathful manifestation of Amida Nyorai and is represented with six faces, six arms, and six legs. He rides a sacred cow or buffalo and is worshipped as a god of victory. He fights pain, poisons, snakes, and dragons.

Sometimes represented with the makouin/bakouin, or "horse-mouth mudra" (馬口印).

His wisdom is the pratyaveksana-jnana (妙観察智), or "wisdom of wondrous observation".’s water buffalo thundered across the sky. A battle between beings with powers beyond human comprehension had begun.

“Kagetora-sama.”

At the sound of Naoe’s voice, Takaya turned his gaze forward once more. The barrier point at Aobayama. The soldiers sent by Mogami against them had already arrived. Beyond them was the gigantic pillar formed from the spirits gathered there by the invocation of the dead.

“Hmph. Yeah, I know...” Takaya smiled defiantly. “We gotta take care of these guys before tranquilizing the earth. You wanna tell me that our task is to smash the barrier apart, right?”

“With the «choubukuchoubuku (調伏)

Also known as: choubukuryoku (調伏力)

The special power given to the Yasha-shuu to banish onryou to the Underworld using the dharani of Uesugi Kenshin's guardian deity, Bishamonten. The types of choubuku include "kouhou-choubuku", "ressa-choubuku", "kekkai-choubuku", etc. Each choubuku is begun with the incantation "bai" and the ritual hand gesture of Bishamonten's symbol.

Choubuku does not work against kanshousha, who have bodies of their own.» of father and son, Yoshiaki and Yoshiyasu following. Please do not squander your «power» carelessly. I will protect you. Please take care to preserve your strength.”

“That’s if we can afford it.”

Naoe took in his smile with a quick sideways glance. The sternness suddenly vanished from his eyes.

“You...have not changed at all, have you?”

“Eh?”

Stepping in front of Takaya, Naoe filled himself with «power» and glared at the soldiers amassed against them.

“Please stay behind me.”

“Naoe.”

Takaya gripped his right arm, and Naoe turned. Takaya gazed at him with direct eyes.

“I...don’t want you to die.”

“Kagetora-sama?”

“I can’t do without you. And I won’t forgive you if you just carelessly exchange bodies. I won’t forgive you, so.”

Naoe’s expression was serious.

“Is that a command from ‘Uesugi KagetoraUesugi Kagetora (上杉景虎) 1552? 1554? - Apr. 19, 1579

Also known as: possibly Houjou Ujihide (北条氏秀), Houjou Saburou (北条三郎), Saburou Kagetora (三郎景虎)

Historically: Uesugi Kagetora was the seventh son (sixth to survive to adulthood) of Houjou Ujiyasu, younger brother of Houjou Ujimasa, Houjou Ujiteru, Houjou Ujikuni, Houjou Ujinori, Houjou Ujitada, and older brother of Houjou Ujimitsu. His mother was the sister-in-law of Tooyama Yasumitsu, a vassal of the Houjou Clan (other sources say Zuikeiin, Ujiyasu's principle wife). It's likely that he and Houjou Ujihide were two different people and that Ujihide was the son of Houjou Tsunashige and living in Edo while Saburou was living in Echigo, so most historians refer to him as Houjou Saburou when describing his early life.

As a child, he was sent into the priesthood at Souun Temple in Hakone, then sent as hostage to Takeda Shingen of the Takeda Clan in the three-way alliance between Houjou, Takeda, and Imagawa formed in 1554 (though this last point is now in dispute, as it is told only in the Records of Ancient Battles of the Eight Kanto Provinces and recorded in none of the Takeda Clan records.)

He was adopted by his uncle Houjou Genan in 1569 and married Genan's daughter.

When the Houjou and Uesugi clans formed an alliance in 1569, Saburou was sent to Uesugi Kenshin in an exchange of hostages with Kakizaki Haruie. (At first, the hostage was set to be Houjou Ujimasa's third son Kunimasumaru, but Ujimasa could not bring himself to send off his son, who was then still a baby.) Saburou was sent to the Uesugi clan in early 1570. Kenshin, who never married, developed a liking for the handsome and intelligent Saburou. He married his niece Seienin, the daughter of Nagao Masakage and older sister of Nagao Akikage (Uesugi Kagekatsu) to Saburou, gave him the name Kagetora (a name that had once belonged to Kenshin himself), and adopted him into the Uesugi Clan.

When Kenshin died suddenly in 1578 without naming an heir, Kagetora and Kagekatsu, similarly adopted by Kenshin, fought for succession to the position of clan head (the Otate no Ran). Though Kagetora held the early advantage with the backing of Uesugi vassals such as Uesugi Kagenobu, Honjou Hidetsuna, Kitajou Takahiro, and the Houjou Clan, the tide of the battle turned with Takeda Katsuyori's betrayal to Kagekatsu's side.

When the Otate fell in 1579, Kagetora attempted to escape to Odawara Castle, but was betrayed at Samegao Castle by Horie Munechika and committed suicide. His wife committed suicide along with him (though there are also accounts that she remained behind at the Otate and committed suicide there when her brother Kagekatsu refused Kagetora's surrender.) His oldest son Doumanmaru died at the hands of Kagekatsu's troops along with Uesugi Norimasa, and the rest of his children were believed to have died along with their parents.

In Mirage of Blaze: He was born to Houjou Ujiyasu and Zuikeiin as their eighth (seventh to survive to adulthood) and youngest son. After his death in the Otate no Ran, he was charged by Uesugi Kenshin to become kanshousha in order to ensure that the peace of Japan is not disrupted by the onshou as the leader of the Yasha-shuu and the commander of the Meikai Uesugi Army.’?”

“So you won’t listen if it’s from ‘Ougi Takaya’?” Takaya glared at him. “I won’t forgive you for disobeying me, Naoe. This my command.”

Ghosts waited expectantly.

The Sword of BishamontenBishamonten-tou (毘沙門天刀)

The Sword of Bishmonten is an incarnation of Bishamonten, a physical blade which can be summoned only by the general of the Meikai Uesugi Army. It contains the power of «choubuku», and any spirit cut by it is exorcised; however, none-spiritual objects are not harmed by its blade.

Its summoning calls upon Namu Tobatsu Bishamonten with the incantation "on beishiramandaya sowaka". Its dismissal uses the incantation of unsummoning, "on basara bokisha boku." glinted sharply, the fangs of a tiger on the verge of pouncing on his prey.

Kokuryou’s gentle face appeared in the back of his mind. Saying—no matter where you are, don’t forget that you are yourself.

(—Gramps...)

The malice-filled ghosts made their move. Takaya shouted, “Watch and see, Gramps!”

The demon-conquering blade howled. Another battle had begun. Naoe formed the ritual gesture of Bishamonten and cried, “Ari nari tonari anaro nabi kunabiari nari tonari anaro nabi kunabi ()

In the 26th chapter of the Lotus Sutra, the dharani given by Bishamonten to the followers of Buddhism for protection. A distance of one hundred "yojanas" is specified for the radius of protection.!”

Mogami’s warriors attacked, swinging their swords.

“ (baibai ()

Intoned by the Yasha-shuu at the beginning of choubuku, 'bai' is the "seed syllable" for Bishamonten, originally known as Vaiśravaṇa.)!”

The group in the lead disappeared, engulfed by a violent gale. The warriors surrounded Takaya and Naoe in a flash. Takaya mowed them down with the Sword of Bishamonten, and Naoe followed with «ressa-choubukuressa-choubuku (裂炸調伏)

Lit. "rend-exploding exorcism"; a type of choubuku which uses the incantation "ari nari tonari...." Described as gun-like, as opposed to kouhou-choubuku.». Countless warriors fell by Takaya’s blade. A sword grazed his arm. A Mogami warrior had come on him from behind. Naoe instantly struck it down. Takaya, too, shielded Naoe countless times as he formed the ritual gesture of BishamontenBishamonten (毘沙門天)

Also know as: Bishamon, Tamonten, Vaiśravaṇa, Kubera

Bishamonten is one of the 12 Deva Guardians, the protector of the North and the most powerful of the Four Heavenly Kings. He is the god of warfare and warriors, sometimes called the "black warrior"; black is his symbolic color, and winter is the season over which he presides. He is often depicted as warrior with a crown on his head, a pagoda in one hand and a trident in the other. He punishes those who do evil and is also the guardian of the places where Buddha preaches. He is one who is all-knowing, who hears everything, who is always listening, and is completely versed in Buddha's teachings. He is one of Japan's Seven Deities of Fortune. The soldiers of his army are the powerful earth deities called Yaksha.

Bishamonten is also called "Tobatsu Bishamonten" (刀八毘沙門天), or "Eight-Sword Bishamonten", because of an error in translation passed down through the centuries. The original name, "Bishamonten of Tobatsu", pointed to a manifestation of Bishamonten which appeared in the Central Asian kingdom of Tou-po or Tobatsu (兜跋) to protect the capital city against invaders. Bishamonten in this form is depicted with a diadem on his head, four hands holding a key, a gem, a pagoda, and a halbert before him and eight arms holding eight swords around him..

“ (baibai ()

Intoned by the Yasha-shuu at the beginning of choubuku, 'bai' is the "seed syllable" for Bishamonten, originally known as Vaiśravaṇa.)!”

“On dakini sahaharakyatei sowakaon dakini sahaharakyatei sowaka

「オン・ダキニ・サハハラキャテイ・ソワカ」

An invocation of protection from Dakini, a Buddhist deity who eats the hearts of the dead and is associated with the fox: "Oh Divine Eater of Human Flesh and those who follow you, I call upon you in fear and awe.", on dakini sahaharakyatei sowakaon dakini sahaharakyatei sowaka

「オン・ダキニ・サハハラキャテイ・ソワカ」

An invocation of protection from Dakini, a Buddhist deity who eats the hearts of the dead and is associated with the fox: "Oh Divine Eater of Human Flesh and those who follow you, I call upon you in fear and awe."...”

Meanwhile, Mogami Yoshiyasu had put his entire being into performing the ‘Dakiniten-hou’ to break the spell of Kyougamine.

His features, illuminated by goma-dan fires, looked all the more ghastly.

But it took no ordinary power to battle to a standstill two of the great Wisdom Kings. But why had he concealed it? With this fearsome «power», he could perhaps have annihilated Uesugi’s Yasha-shuuYasha-shuu (夜叉衆)

The five kanshousha at the head of the Meikai Uesugi Army ordered by Uesugi Kenshin to hunt for the onshou who are disrupting the peace of modern-era Japan in a battle which has lasted four hundred years. Led by Uesugi Kagetora, with Naoe Nobutsuna, Kakizaki Haruie, Yasuda Nagahide, and Irobe Katsunaga. The name "Yasha" refers to soldiers in the army of Bishamonten, called "Yaksha"..

(I did not recognize your strength.)

Kousaka DanjouKousaka Masanobu (高坂昌信) 1527 - 1578

Also called: Kousaka Danjou Masanobu (高坂弾正昌信), Kousaka Danjou Nosuke Masanobu (高坂弾正忠昌信), Kasuga Toratsuna (春日虎綱), Kasuga Gensuke (春日源助)
Title: Danjou Nosuke/Faithful True-Shot (弾正忠)

Historically: One of Takeda Shingen's most loyal retainers who was one of his Twenty-Four Generals and played a key part in the fourth battle of Kawanakajima.

Kousaka was born in Kai to a wealthy farmer, Kasuga Ookuma (?) (春日大隈). His father died when he was 16, and he lost a lawsuit against his elder sister's husband for ownership of his father's lands. He then enrolled in the service of Takeda Shingen.

Kousaka first served as a messenger for Shingen. He distinguished himself in battle, and rose swiftly through the ranks of Shingen's trusted retainers. He participated in most of Shingen's battles. He did not hesitate to retreat when required, which earned him the nickname of "Escaping Danjou". However, he was calm and logical in the midst of battle, and was perhaps the best of Shingen's generals.

There are anecdotes that in his younger days, Kousaka and Shingen were engaged in a shudo relationship, and Kousaka rose so quickly in Shingen's service because of Shingen's affection.

After Shingen's death in 1573, Kousaka continued on to serve Takeda Katsuyori. He sought an alliance between the Takeda clan and their old enemy, the Uesugi clan, in order to unite against the threat of Oda Nobunaga.

Kousaka died in 1578 of illness at the age of 52. He was succeeded by his second son, Kousaka Masamoto (高坂昌元), his first son, Kousaka Masazumi (高坂昌澄) having died in the Battle of Nagashino in 1575.

In Mirage of Blaze: A kanshousha who, along with Sanjou-no-Kata, breaks the barrier over Takeda Shingen's tomb, the Maenduka, in an attempt to resurrect Shingen by using Narita Yuzuru as a vessel for his spirit.

According to Haruie, Kousaka has a high level of spiritual sensing ability (reisa), such that he is able to recognize someone he had met before even after their soul has undergone purification. He warns Naoe that Narita Yuzuru's existence is a threat to the Roku Dou Sekai. watched over him soberly. —Ironically, the liberation of his mind from obstructive thoughts had released Yoshiyasu’s power. Until now, the tension that had always filled him had withered his mind. Because he had always lacked confidence in himself. Because he had never been able to freely wield the power he carried.

(—Because of his father...?)

Not impossible, Kousaka thought, crossing his arms. The greatness of the father probably had to be taken into consideration.

“Reporting!” The Mogami messenger who had arrived relayed the bitter news, “Despite hard fighting, two of the barrier points of the «jike-kekkai» have been dissolved!”

Yoshiyasu did not answer. He chanted the mantra of Dakiniten ceaselessly, without even appearing to have heard the messenger’s voice.

Kousaka replied on his behalf, “What of the warriors? What are they doing?”

“Well—” The messenger answered with trepidation, “They’re vanishing as if sucked into a wind conjured by some strange magic.”

(So the Uesugi, hmm...?)

Kousaka grinned.

“Gather the soldiers at the remaining three points. They must hold fast. This is Lord Yoshiyasu’s command.”

“Yes, my lord!” The messenger replied and rushed off.

A crow came winging past him and landed on Kousaka’s arm.

It had been sent from YamagataYamagata-ken (山形県)

A prefecture located in the Northeast region of Japan which is encircled by mountains and the Sea of Japan. Its capital is the city of Yamagata..

Kousaka said sharply in response to its message, “Truly?”

Disaster in YamagataYamagata-ken (山形県)

A prefecture located in the Northeast region of Japan which is encircled by mountains and the Sea of Japan. Its capital is the city of Yamagata.. Mogami’s main army, on standby in YamagataYamagata-ken (山形県)

A prefecture located in the Northeast region of Japan which is encircled by mountains and the Sea of Japan. Its capital is the city of Yamagata., seemed prepared to set out for Sendai at the worst possible time. Furthermore, Mogami had apparently issued the order for a general offensive against Date by his onshouonshou (怨将)

Lit.: "vengeful general": the spirits of the warlords of the Sengoku period, who continue their battles even in modern-age Japan. allies. Kousaka’s expression sobered.

“Guess I won’t be an idle spectator for much longer, hmm? —Aye, I understand. Report to our lord. That I will take Sendai without fail. And to please leave matters here to me and advance soldiers into YamagataYamagata-ken (山形県)

A prefecture located in the Northeast region of Japan which is encircled by mountains and the Sea of Japan. Its capital is the city of Yamagata.. Then take this message to the KoudukeKouduke-no-kuni (上野国)

Also known as: Kouzuke-no-kuni, Joushuu (上州)

An ancient province of Japan governed by the Uesugi Clan which is now the prefecture of Gunma. troops: Invade the AizuAizu (会津)

Also known as: Aidu

In ancient Japan, a feudal domain known as Aizu-han, a part of the Mutsu Province; today, the region which is the westernmost third of Fukushima Prefecture. The area was ruled by the Hoshina Clan, former retainers of the Takeda Clan, which was known for its martial skill. immediately. We must not allow Ashina to make a move!”

The crow gave a single hoarse caw and flew off once more into the western sky.

Kousaka looked at Yoshiyasu’s back.

(Now then... Shall we finish things here?)

The blade of a dagger glinted secretly within his coat.

Chiaki’s «nenpanenpa (念波)

Lit.: "waves of will/thought"; a nendouryoku attack using spiritual energy which focuses the will and releases it in a burst to strike at a target.» smashed into the spirit pillar and exploded. He immediately began «choubuku».

Under its cover, Ayako pressed forward with the earth-tranquilization ritual.

“Noumaku sanmanda bodanan harachibiei sowakanoumakusamanda bodanan harachibiei sowaka

「ナウマクサンマンダ・ボダナン・ハラチビエイ・ソワカ」

A mantra of Chiten, used during the earth-tranquilizing ritual created by the Uesugi.

"noumakusamanda bodanan" = a devotion to the Buddhas/"homage to all the Buddhas"
"harachibiei sowaka" = reverence to Chiten, or "hail Chiten!", noumaku sanmanda bodanan harachibiei sowakanoumakusamanda bodanan harachibiei sowaka

「ナウマクサンマンダ・ボダナン・ハラチビエイ・ソワカ」

A mantra of Chiten, used during the earth-tranquilizing ritual created by the Uesugi.

"noumakusamanda bodanan" = a devotion to the Buddhas/"homage to all the Buddhas"
"harachibiei sowaka" = reverence to Chiten, or "hail Chiten!"—...”

ChitenChiten (地天)

Also know as: Jiten, Prthivi

One of the 12 Deva Guardians who lives in the highest Heaven in the Plane of Desires, whose direction is downward. She is guardian of the earth, the mother goddess, and her counterpart is Bonten, who is guardian of the upward direction and creator of the universe.’s power gushed forth like water from a spring to purify the curse-sullied earth.

Chiaki continued to perform «choubuku» again and again.

“Fuck! This is endless!”

Dozens of spirits disappeared with each iteration, but just how many of them had the invocation of the dead summoned? A stunning number. It was impossible to place a «gebakugebaku (外縛)

Also known as: gebakuhou (外縛法), gaibaku

Lit.: "outer bind"; a method of tying a spirit body or physical body to one place such that they cannot move, also commonly called "paralysis". Kagetora and company use gebakuhou when they wish to perform «choubuku» on especially powerful spirits or a large host of spirits during "kouhou-choubuku" or "kekkai-choubuku", etc.» on them even with «kouhou-choubukukouhou-choubuku (光包調伏)

Lit. "light-enclosing exorcism"; a type of exorcism which uses the incantation noumakusamanda... and summons Tobatsu Bishamonten. Described as bomb-like, as opposed to ressa-choubuku.». But more terrible still was the fact that so many spirits were not able to pass on to the next life.

“Whatever the path, you can’t stay in this world!” Chiaki shouted, performing «choubuku» with loud abandon. The onryouonryou (怨霊)

Lit.: "vengeful ghost"; the spirits of those who died in the Sengoku period who are still so filled with rage and hatred that they continue to exist in the world as vengeful spirits instead of being purified and reborn. attacked like a tsunami.

“ (baibai ()

Intoned by the Yasha-shuu at the beginning of choubuku, 'bai' is the "seed syllable" for Bishamonten, originally known as Vaiśravaṇa.)!”

He put he had everything into it, and nearly a hundred spirits vanished at the same time. Then—

“...!”

Chiaki’s sixth sense tingled faintly.

Somewhere, someone was wielding the «choubuku» power of the Sword of Bishamonten.

(Kagetora?)

He could think of no other explanation. Chiaki’s lips curved in a grin.

“Huh. Wouldn’t be interesting otherwise...”

He’d been waiting for this. With Kagetora’s awakening, he had a rival. And the Kagetora who wielded that «power»—he had been Chiakis only rival for the past four hundred years.

“!”

The asphalt cracked apart right next to him.

“Ugh...!”

The onryou struck at Chiaki with their «nenpa», precipitating a violent explosion.

Chiaki raised his eyes sharply.

Kagetora had awakened...!

“I’m not gonna lose to you, Kagetora!” he roared.

“Come and get some!”

The Sword of Bishamonten tore apart the ghosts.

Takaya cut down the warriors still obstinately advancing in succession, taking out fifty at a time without even blinking.

“...you bastards!”

He panted unsteadily, gripped by weariness. But he could not rest.

His movements dulled. The warriors pressed forward mercilessly.

“...!”

He turned to slay an attacking warrior. But another advanced on him from the right at the same time!

“ (baibai ()

Intoned by the Yasha-shuu at the beginning of choubuku, 'bai' is the "seed syllable" for Bishamonten, originally known as Vaiśravaṇa.)!”

Naoe’s intervention saved Takaya.

“Are you all right, Kagetora-sama!”

“I’m...fine...”

Takaya raised his head abruptly and shouted, “Naoe, behind you!”

The warrior was on the verge of cutting Naoe down. Naoe nearly dodged it, but the blade grazed his temple.

“Fucking bastard!”

Takaya formed the ritual gesture.

“ (baibai ()

Intoned by the Yasha-shuu at the beginning of choubuku, 'bai' is the "seed syllable" for Bishamonten, originally known as Vaiśravaṇa.)!”

Dozens of warriors disappeared in a blink.

Perhaps finally rattled, the soldiers broke ranks and began to run. Takaya turned to Naoe without giving chase. Naoe’s temple was bleeding.

“Are you okay?”

“I’m fine. But you’ve exhausted so much of your strength...”

“Heh. Exhausted? This is nothing,” Takaya responded, wiping sweat from his neck and giving Naoe a fearless grin without a hint of tiredness. “Let’s hurry up and get rid of the invocation of the dead. We can’t just leave that thing there forever.”

“True enough. Maybe it’s just my imagination, but I think the «malice» in the city has been gradually fading. If Mogami’s power has fallen even a small amount, then all the better for Kyougamine...”

“What they’re doing is none of our business.” Battle-lust glittered in Takaya’s eyes. “What we gotta do is finish these guys off.”

His gaze, sharp and dazzlingly clear, seemed almost to belong to a wild tiger.

“Let’s go, Naoe!”

Takaya raised the Sword of Bishamonten and dashed forward, Naoe keeping pace immediately behind him.

Exploding «nenpa». Shattering asphalt. The onryou pummeled them with «nenpa».

(I will not let them touch one finger of his body!)

Showering rubble. Naoe put all his will into the «goshinhagoshinha (護身波)

Lit. "wave of self-protection"; the goshinha is a protective mesh spun from fine strands of spiritual energy which surrounds the caster and protects from an opponent's spiritual as well as physical attacks. The mesh gains strength and stability when it is multi-layered and becomes the goshinheki. The goshinha is Naoe's forte.» he erected around them.

(I’ll show you how I will continue to protect him...!)

Onryou attacked from the sky. Naoe formed the ritual gesture. Takaya swung the Sword of Bishamonten.

A incredible number of onryou charged them.

“Namu Tobatsu BishamontenNamu Tobatsu Bishamonten (南無刀八毘沙門天)

Lit. "Hail Eight-Sword Bishamonten" Chanted during "light-enclosing exorcism," the summoning of the Sword of Bishamonten, and other invocations to Bishamonten.!” Raising the Sword high, Takaya shouted at the top of his voice, “To this hand...! Lend me thy power!”

 

In the sky over Sendai, the spell-battle between Yoshiyasu and Kyougamine grew ever fiercer.

Koko without number ran freely about the skies of Sendai. Daiitoku MyououDaiitoku Myouou (大威徳明王)

Also known as: Yamantaka Vidya-raja, Conqueror of Death, Vajrabhairava, Rokusokuson (六足尊)—"Venerable Six-Footed One".

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the west. He is the wrathful manifestation of Amida Nyorai and is represented with six faces, six arms, and six legs. He rides a sacred cow or buffalo and is worshipped as a god of victory. He fights pain, poisons, snakes, and dragons.

Sometimes represented with the makouin/bakouin, or "horse-mouth mudra" (馬口印).

His wisdom is the pratyaveksana-jnana (妙観察智), or "wisdom of wondrous observation".’s water buffalo bellowed, and the two Wisdom Kings annihilated foxes with enraged war-cries.

The spells of Kyougamine and Yoshiyasu clashed in the skies above Sendai. The powers of the two sides were almost equal. Neither let the other take a single step forward.

The battle increased in vehemence. An immense, fearsome energy shook the earth and conjured dark clouds that split the sky apart with lightning.

 

Naoe’s «nenpa» broke apart the rubble that came hurtling at them again and again. Takaya mowed down the spirits with the Sword of Bishamonten.

A fresh troop of skeletal warriors appeared opposite them!

“There’s more?! Feh!” Takaya spat in disgust, and gathered his will. Fissures ran through the asphalt with loud cracks. The ground broke apart beneath the skeletal warriors’ feet, and they collapsed like dominoes.

“Let’s settle things here first, Naoe! Gimme a hand!”

“At your command!”

No soon said than Takaya began running. The onryou shot straight at Takaya!

“No you don’t!”

Naoe created a «goshinhekigoshinheki (護身壁)

Lit.: "wall of self-protection"; the goshinheki is a barrier constructed for an instant using spiritual energy. The goshinha is effective when maintained, but the goshinheki takes shape in the instant the caster is attacked and is a basic method of self-protection. However, its weakness is that it cannot protect the caster against 100% of the damage caused by the attack.» with layers of «goshinhagoshinha (護身波)

Lit. "wave of self-protection"; the goshinha is a protective mesh spun from fine strands of spiritual energy which surrounds the caster and protects from an opponent's spiritual as well as physical attacks. The mesh gains strength and stability when it is multi-layered and becomes the goshinheki. The goshinha is Naoe's forte.» and interposed it between Takaya and the onryou.

Pak pak pak!

The «goshinhekigoshinheki (護身壁)

Lit.: "wall of self-protection"; the goshinheki is a barrier constructed for an instant using spiritual energy. The goshinha is effective when maintained, but the goshinheki takes shape in the instant the caster is attacked and is a basic method of self-protection. However, its weakness is that it cannot protect the caster against 100% of the damage caused by the attack.» intercepted the «nenpa» with a sound like crackling firecrackers. Takaya commenced their counter-assault with his will shooting out like bullets from a machine gun. The onryou scattered.

However.

“...!”

At that moment, the spirit-pillar broke apart, and all of the individual spirits crowded around Takaya and Naoe angrily. ...Not good!

“Ugh...!”

A razor whirlwindKamaitachi (窮奇/鎌鼬/かまいたち)

Also known as: cutting whirlwind, razor whirlwind, vacuum whirlwind

A wind demon commonly depicted in Japanese folklore as a trio of weasels with sharp claws, riding on a gust of wind to cut into the skin of their victims at lightning speed. pummeled Naoe and tore into his clothes and flesh with a dull scratching sound.

“! ...Naoe!”

The ground exploded at his feet as Takaya cried out, and he turned, shielding himself.

Mogami’s warriors crowded against his back.

(We’re surrounded...?!)

Takaya dashed towards Naoe. Naoe scanned the area around them, panting with the pain of his wounds. An enormous number of spirits surrounded them, filling their entire field of vision.

“It’s been a while since we faced this many of them.”

“«Ressa-choubukuressa-choubuku (裂炸調伏)

Lit. "rend-exploding exorcism"; a type of choubuku which uses the incantation "ari nari tonari...." Described as gun-like, as opposed to kouhou-choubuku.»? We’re gonna run out of energy before we’re finished.”

Naoe looked at Takaya as the blood dripped from his cheek. Takaya glared at the spirits, the Sword of Bishamonten poised.

“Humph. Whatever, I don’t care.”

“Kagetora-sama!”

“This is what calls for power, huh? ...!”

«Nenpa» blasted from the onryou right next to him. Takaya shielded himself for a moment before yelling, “Let’s deal with all of ’em!”

Energy gushed from Takaya’s body. His «power» exploded!

Crackle!

A blast of silver lightning mowed down the besieging onryou instantly. The asphalt around them cracked apart, and fire spouted from the ground. The flames undulated in midair like a blazing dragon and swallowed the onryou. Terrible screams rent the night from every direction.

“I’ll make you rest in peace right now!”

Takaya sprinted forward. The razor whirlwindKamaitachi (窮奇/鎌鼬/かまいたち)

Also known as: cutting whirlwind, razor whirlwind, vacuum whirlwind

A wind demon commonly depicted in Japanese folklore as a trio of weasels with sharp claws, riding on a gust of wind to cut into the skin of their victims at lightning speed. grazed against him countless times, cutting through clothes and skin, but could not stop him.

“Kagetora-sama!”

Naoe covered him with a «nenpa». The onryou attacked with ever more ferocity. Countless explosions rocked the ground. The blasts bombarded them.

“Don’t screw with me—!”

The Sword of Bishamonten whistled through the air. Naoe formed the ritual gesture. Takaya raised the Sword high.

“ (baibai ()

Intoned by the Yasha-shuu at the beginning of choubuku, 'bai' is the "seed syllable" for Bishamonten, originally known as Vaiśravaṇa.)!”

Its flare tore apart the darkness. All the spirits caught within its slanting beam instantly disappeared. The crowd of spirits immediately scattered in all directions.

“You’re not getting away! ...Ugh!”

An explosion threw Takaya tumbling.

“Kagetora-sama!” Naoe shouted, and sprinted to Takaya’s side as the skeletal warriors’ «nenpa» rained down on him.

“Ug...h...”

Pain warped Takaya’s face; his foot seemed to have been injured. Naoe’s eyes flashed as he looked up.

“You...!”

“! Naoe...!”

An amber aura flared around Naoe. He stood against the onryou’s «nenpa» with a hitherto quiescent energy and deflected them all.

Rumble!

Naoe’s flames swirled and coiled, burning the onryou to nothing. The onryou’s power plummeted.

“Now, Kagetora-sama!”

“All right!”

Both of them formed the ritual gesture. “ (baibai ()

Intoned by the Yasha-shuu at the beginning of choubuku, 'bai' is the "seed syllable" for Bishamonten, originally known as Vaiśravaṇa.)!”

“Noumakusamanda bodanan bai shiramandaya sowakanoumakusamanda bodanan baishiramandaya sowaka

「のうまくさまんだ　ぼだなん　ばいしらまんだや　そわか」

A mantra of Bishamonten which protects the caster from fatigue and calamity, usually used when starting a long or complex invocation.

"noumakusamanda bodanan" = a devotion to the Buddhas/"homage to all the Buddhas".
"Baishiramandaya" = a reverence to Bishamonten, or "hail Bishamonten!"!”

“Namu Tobatsu BishamontenNamu Tobatsu Bishamonten (南無刀八毘沙門天)

Lit. "Hail Eight-Sword Bishamonten" Chanted during "light-enclosing exorcism," the summoning of the Sword of Bishamonten, and other invocations to Bishamonten.! For this demon subjugation, lend me thy power!”

The onryou howled.

Light flared from their fists.

“«Choubuku»!”

“On sonbanisonba un bazara un hattaon shuchiri kyaro roha un kan sowaka

「オン・シュチリ・キャロ・ロハ・ウン・カン・ソワカ」

The mantra of Daiitoku Myouou, used during Daiitoku Myouou-hou.—...”

“On shuchiri kyaro roha un kan sowakaon shuchiri kyaro roha un kan sowaka

「オン・シュチリ・キャロ・ロハ・ウン・カン・ソワカ」

The mantra of Daiitoku Myouou, used during Daiitoku Myouou-hou.—...”

The bright goma flames continued to blaze as the monks’ mantras echoed eerily.

Yuzuru had been watching protectively over the fire-wheel rituals for a while. He stared motionlessly at the monks as they prayed, their attention focused and not wavering for even an instant. The faint golden light around him allowed no one to approach. But his mind appeared to be in the skies above Sendai, battling the foxes.

“Dono!”

Masamune turned to Shigezane as he dashed over.

“What news, Shigezane?”

“The Mogami warriors in Sendai appear to be moving furiously. Suda-donoSuda Chikashige (須田親重)

Title: Houki-no-Kami

A vassal of Date Masamune, master of Tsukanome-jou. on the outside hath requested aid.”

“What...?!”

A ferocious battle between their troops had already commenced within the city. Mogami seemed to be aiming for Kyougamine. The two armies had already skirmished quite close, but within the Date’s impregnable fortress, they still had the advantage.

“Very well. Send relief troops from WatariWatari-jou (亘理城)

A castle contructed in Mutsu Province by Watari Motomune, a vassal of the Date Clan. The castle was later held by Katakura Kagetsuna, then Date Shigezane (1602). . I leave the command of the soldiers within the city to Suda and thee.”

“There are two barrier points remaining?”

“’Twill be but a matter of time for Uesugi-dono. But Mogami’s ‘Dakiniten-hou’ is quite strong. We must not be unprepared even when the barrier vanishes. I have a feeling that the enemy hath something in store. Attend to thy guard.”

“Aye,” Shigezane responded cheerfully and departed. His face glowed at the prospect of battle like a fish reaching water. He hadn’t changed at all from what he had been in his former life, Masamune thought, gazing after him.

At his side, Kojuurou said, “But the Mogami curse-caster is quite tenacious as well, is he not?”

“According to Naoe-dono, ’tis Mogami’s son, Yoshiyasu.”

“Thy cousin, then?”

“As usual, he shows no mercy to those near to him,” Masamune spat in disgust.

Black clouds loomed down from the sky, accompanied by flashes of lightning and roars of thunder. Ordinary people would have no way of knowing that this was from the battle between the koko and the two Wisdom Kings. The fearsome power of the two sides were equal.

(Who will run out of power first?) Masamune looked over at Yuzuru. (Can he win against Yoshiyasu with his power?)

Yuzuru stood calmly. His gaze followed the summoned combatants like a commander watching over the battlefield.

It was obvious that Yuzuru was the one manipulating the two Wisdom Kings. His eyes blazed and glittered as if awaiting some opportunity. Even his composure was a palpable thing. A faint smiled played about his lips. If Takaya had been there, he would probably have rubbed his eyes, not quite knowing if this was really Yuzuru. He looked very like the Yuzuru who had been possessed by Shingen.

There was cruelty in his dilated eyes.

A chill ran down Masamune’s spine.

(Who is he, this young man...?)

“Dono!”

He turned at the sound of someone calling to him and saw Moniwa SagetsuMoniwa Sagetsu (茂庭左月)

A vassal of Date Masamune who was killed at the age of 73 in the Battle of Hitotoribashi leading a troop of 60 calvary against the combined armies of Ashina and Satake to save Masamune's life. His grave was erected at that battlefield. sprinting toward him urgently.

“Dono! The city—the people of the city look strange!”

“Strange? What meanest thou?”

“A large crowd is heading for Kyougamine! They come from everywhere, their aim set squarely on Kyougamine...!”

“What...?!”

“Each carries some weapon-like object. I cannot think but that they are being controlled. ’Tis as if some riot has begun...Dono!”

The retainers all turned to Masamune. The blood drained out of his face.

(Surely not...!)

 

“ (baibai ()

Intoned by the Yasha-shuu at the beginning of choubuku, 'bai' is the "seed syllable" for Bishamonten, originally known as Vaiśravaṇa.)”

Skeletal warriors disappeared at Ayako’s single command.

In the meantime, Chiaki Shuuhei and Kadowaki Ayako were at the Komegabukuro barrier point near Kyougamine. They had already dispersed the invocation of the dead there, and were tidying up the odd remaining warrior.

“I’m pretty much done here. How ’bout you, Nagahide?”

“Finished. Once Kagetora and Naoe wrap up their sites, we’ll be completely done,” Chiaki said, moving to leave. “Let’s get back to Kyougamine for now. Something’s bothering me. There’s something strange about the ferocity of that spell-battle in the sky.”

“Yeah. I’ve been feeling it for a while, too... ?” Ayako stared at something on the road. “Wait, Nagahide. Look—”

“Eh?”

A line of people moved down the road. Adults, children—all of them looked like ordinary city folk, but they continued down the road in endless succession, heading for some unknown destination.

“It’s not some kind of parade...is it?”

“Wait, Haruie. Look carefully.”

Each person carried a bat or wooden sword or kitchen cleaver or knife. Some even had Japanese katanas: obviously objects that could be used as weapons. What in the world were they doing?

“Nagahide! Over here, too!”

On the road behind them, more people followed each other down the road. Their expressions were dull and empty, and they walked along with the same gait, heading in the same direction. What were they doing? Where were these people going?

"...!

Chiaki sucked in a startled breath. He had felt the strange ‘energy’ above their heads. Ayako also noticed it. Some massive concentration of ‘energy’ enveloped these people, drawing them forward. A «malice»-filled ’energy. It was—

(Foxes...! The foxes’ ‘energy’!)

“No way!”

Chiaki and Ayako shuddered.

The townspeople walked along, pulled forward by their fox-controlled souls.

(They’re not really...!)

They could not let this continue. No sooner thought than Chiaki’s «power» filled his entire body.

“Scatter!”

His will, shot forth with all his might, crashed into the foxes‘ ’energy concentration’. For a moment it seemed that the lumps of energy might be dispersed, but some portions remained behind and could not be removed. They were ‘energy concentrations’ of considerable strength. But that was to be expected. They were, after all, woven by the koko of Mogami Yoshiyasu’s ‘Dakiniten-hou’.

“Bastard!”

He struck with his will again and again, but to no effect. A few people staggered, but he could not remove the ‘energy’ controlled them.

“No way!” Ayako wailed. The people walked silently forward. Their goal was...ahead of them was...!

(Kyougamine!)

Mogami intended to use these people to attack Kyougamine. Mogami’s ghostly warriors had been destroyed one after another by the Date’s strength. But Masamune would not raise a hand against these townspeople who had nothing to do with the battle. Having thought thus far, he could only use the ‘kinrin no hou’ in this manner!

“Dammit! You’re a coward, Mogami!” Chiaki shouted as he attacked with his will again and again. The lumps of energy would continue to multiple as long as their true form (koko) did not disappear. But even Kagetora’s power was probably futile against that enormous koko battling the DaiitokuDaiitoku Myouou (大威徳明王)

Also known as: Yamantaka Vidya-raja, Conqueror of Death, Vajrabhairava, Rokusokuson (六足尊)—"Venerable Six-Footed One".

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the west. He is the wrathful manifestation of Amida Nyorai and is represented with six faces, six arms, and six legs. He rides a sacred cow or buffalo and is worshipped as a god of victory. He fights pain, poisons, snakes, and dragons.

Sometimes represented with the makouin/bakouin, or "horse-mouth mudra" (馬口印).

His wisdom is the pratyaveksana-jnana (妙観察智), or "wisdom of wondrous observation". and GouzanzeGouzanze Myouou (降三世明王)

Also known as: Trailokyavijaya Vidya-raja, Conqueror of the Three Worlds

One of the Five Great Kings of Wisdom, whose direction is the east, his name signifies victory over enemies of the three worlds of the manifested universe, which are the celestial, earthly, and infernal realms. He is a wrathful god whose color is blue. He is generally depicted with three faces, eight arms, and two of his hands crossed at his breast in the mudra known as vajrahumkara (dairikikei 大力契, or "vow of immense strength" in Japanese).

His wisdom is the adarsa-jnana (大円鏡智), or "great perfect mirror wisdom", which is the wisdom to clearly elucidate all things. Wisdom Kings! Right now these people could not be reached!

“For Heaven’s sake! Wake up! Hey, wake up, dammit!”

The townspeople continued to walk towards Kyougamine.

To destroy Masamune and the Date!