Chapter 4, The High Officials (Part 2)
The care of adults is deeply appreciated by all.
Among the four senior retainers left by the late lord for His Majesty, Sado no Kami has already shown signs of disloyalty, Kiyoyama no Den has long since perished in battle, Naitō no Den is bedridden with illness and unable to attend to affairs, while your esteemed father, the overseer of the estate, is yet...
The guard received the order and left. After Chaitian finished speaking, he did not wait for Fanxiu to respond and directly walked out through the side door
Shibata Katsuie and Hirate Masahide had little friendship in their daily lives, yet at this moment, the sentiment expressed did not seem insincere. Hirate was about to respond, but he waved his hand dismissively and said: "Enough, the dead are gone, and the living must strive on. To dwell in sorrow all day long is not the way of us men."
Today, I am once again indebted to the Shengchun Hall, and I am truly grateful. Regardless, one must always put in the effort to maintain appearances.
... ...
Of course, if anyone thinks that Shibata Katsuie is merely a coarse warrior from Owari, unworthy of association, they can naturally refuse. Shibata calmly turned to face Han Shuu, eliminating any possibility of his rejection.
It seems that the one being distant is not me, but rather Mr. Shibata
Being able to meet Lord Chiba truly makes me feel uneasy. Han Xiu still wore a charming smile, showing no signs of anxiety at all, and said, "I appreciate your recommendation, Go U.
At this thought, Hanxiu's gaze towards Shibata Katsuie became somewhat eerie.
... ...
In this way, the first general of the Oda family is indeed a kind-hearted and benevolent person. Han Xiu smiled, but other thoughts began to stir in his mind; it seemed that this task of winning people's hearts would be more suitable for Lin Tongsheng to handle.
Shibata Katsuie ... ? ... Surely he doesn't want me to become his son and inherit the family name, does he ? !
The ancient ferry town is not large, merely a few hundred steps away, just a moment's time.
In this case, you should directly address me as you see fit
His Highness Shibata ... ... Han Xiu was somewhat at a loss whether to laugh or cry, while Sheng Jia merely shook his head, preventing him from continuing.
Fan Xiu remained silent, while Zuo Zuo's words grew increasingly intense
"What has he done to take care of the juniors?" Fan Xiu questioned doubtfully
Fan Xiu casually replied with a sentence, and then they all fell silent, each lost in their own thoughts
Once again, there was a moment of silence
No, no..." Shibata simply shook his head repeatedly, and then waved to summon the guard outside the door
In fact, Lord Chibata also sincerely hopes for the prosperity of the main family. He is originally the retainer of Musashi no Kami (Oda Nobuyuki), and it is only natural that his position differs from ours. Compared to certain individuals with ulterior motives, he can still be considered a righteous man. Suddenly, Narimasa's smile faded, and his gaze became increasingly sharp.
Zuo Zuo Cheng Zheng gazed at Fan Xiu for a long time, clearly dissatisfied with such a light answer, yet in the end, could only let out a gentle sigh. "In that case, I believe the lord will also feel at ease."
Thank you very much, His Highness Chiba. Han Xiu could only manage a bitter smile
Now you are already a samurai of the Oda family, and it should be no problem for you to take on responsibilities after victory. However, as a samurai, in addition to your duties, you must also be kind to others and not be overly proud.
This is because there are no spare horses at home... Heisei Masahide is a relatively pure scholar, preferring to collect ancient books rather than famous steeds.
Chaita, oblivious to the situation, continued to instruct like a benevolent elder
Generally, during the time of the coming-of-age ceremony, some ceremonial items such as the ceremonial attire are presented. If a newly appointed vassal inadvertently makes a mistake, Lord Shibata will most likely mediate in such matters.
This is not good!" Shibata shook his head, "Warhorses are the reliance of warriors on the battlefield; without horses, how can one achieve merit and success?
Perhaps he is truly just being considerate of his juniors without any deeper meaning? Perhaps I am just being overly anxious? Fan Xiu gradually relaxed; although some of the things Chiba said cannot be considered as profound insights, it is still beneficial for a junior to listen to them, if not harmful.
Moments later, a series of light hoofbeats echoed from within the courtyard
"Yes." Han Xiu replied. For someone whose psychological age exceeds twenty, there is naturally not much to discuss with a group of seven or eight-year-old children. However, it is indeed not easy for Shibata Katsukiyo to notice these subtle details
Such a program has been repeated many times; although it initially contained genuine emotions, it ultimately devolved into a mere formality.
Now that one has entered public service, it is imperative to strictly adhere to the laws and regulations, and one must not act as freely as one would at home
It turned out that the conflict on both sides had reached such a level. Fan Xiu was secretly alarmed, yet her demeanor became increasingly respectful as she followed Sheng Chun closely into the room
Here it comes! Following Shibata's指, the servant brought over a black steed, standing over 1.4 meters tall, significantly taller than the average Japanese horse. Its limbs are long, its skin thin, and its coat fine, moving with a light step. Even someone like Hanxiu, who is not very knowledgeable about horses, could not help but admire its appearance.
The next evening, Katsuhiro Shibata was still waiting at the door.
In summary, since Mr. Shibata wishes to meet you, it is likely not a bad thing. Sasasa seemed to have much to say, yet ultimately said nothing at all
Shibata stroked his beard, his eyes sparkling with brilliance: "The Lord Chancellor does not favor indecisive individuals. If one day, if Seiza receives the order to 'kill Shibata Katsuie', then ride this fine steed and come! Haha!"
Even one who prides themselves on having a heart as steadfast as a rock cannot help but be left dumbfounded at this moment
"Yijie! Have someone bring out my Xiujang!"
The breadth experienced yesterday is evident, while today's actions demonstrate meticulousness
... ...
Hehe... Fan Xiu smiled faintly, "A mere child with no talent or virtue, how can one speak of achieving great accomplishments..."
This ... ... "No merit, no reward," Fan Xiu subconsciously wanted to refuse
The number of those who have received the favor of the Owari supervision is countless, and there will certainly be no one who would deliberately make things difficult for you. However, you should not rely on this.
At this time, Shengjia was in his thirties, and it was indeed time for him to consider having children. Meanwhile, Fanxiu was only twelve or thirteen years old, which posed no issues in terms of age, and her background was even less of a concern.
Shibata Masato raised his eyebrows slightly at Sasaki Narimasa, then lightly chuckled without much concern, "It is indeed not surprising that this gentleman cares for his juniors. He knows you have arrived in Kudo Castle, so it is only natural that he wishes to meet you."
Everyone took their seats, and then there was inevitably a round of pleasantries. The conversation mainly revolved around reminiscing about the former glory of the Ping Shou Jian Wu Dian, followed by expressions of sorrow regarding "that incident." As a son, Fan Xiu naturally joined in with a few sighs, putting on a look as if he were about to weep.
This ... ...
The Ping family is a scholarly lineage, and their knowledge naturally surpasses that of a mere warrior like myself; however, it is essential to remember that swords and blades are the foundation upon which a warrior stands
"Yes, I have learned from you," Hanxiu said, bowing his head in respect, fulfilling Chaitian's desire to be seen as an elder, yet he was filled with confusion. Could it be that Chaitian Katsukage's paternal instincts were heightened due to not having a son?
This horse is named Xiujiang, and I obtained it from a merchant in the Kinai region. It is said to have come from the hands of the southern barbarians, and not only is it fast, but it also has a gentle temperament, making it quite suitable for the left, I believe!" Shibata gently stroked the horse's mane, yet there was no reluctance in his gaze
"It is my honor." Shibata Katsuharu quickly returned the greeting, "If Lord Hanashu does not stand on ceremony, please call me Go-u (Wamon)."
Upon entering the foyer, I happened to see Shibata Katsuie coming out from the hall
The temporary residence of Shibata Katsuie is located just a little to the east of the main keep, with the two hundred foot soldiers brought along boldly standing near the inner castle, seemingly ready to charge into the city at any moment
What Chiba Daiton said is indeed correct, Fan Xiu said with cupped hands
Fan Xiu could only follow them out.
As far as I know, your esteemed brother, Lord Jiu Xiu, has always harbored some grievances against the lord. As for you, it is not unlikely that you also hold resentment regarding that matter. If even the legitimate son of the Monitoring Palace harbors doubts about the lord, the public's trust in the Owari region may very well change
As Shibata Katsuie, having arrived here, has already observed all the formalities, Han Shuu can only hurriedly return the courtesy
In history, Chiba, like Toyotomi Hideyoshi, did not have biological children until late in life, at which point he adopted many young children from relatives. Consequently, Fan Xiu suddenly became anxious
I am unworthy of such praise
"And Zuo (the childhood name of Cheng Zheng)... must be hoping to hear my unwavering declaration, right?" Fan Xiu chuckled lightly, "I have never been accustomed to saying those impassioned words, but please rest assured about everything."
Several years ago, when Oda Nobuhide celebrated his fortieth birthday, Han Shuu also met Shibata Katsuie. Four to five years have passed, and this warrior has not changed much; he has a broad forehead and a wide face, a tiger's back and a bear's waist, and a thick beard encircles his face. Although he is smiling, there is a formidable aura in his eyes, perhaps this is what is referred to as the 'killing intent' of someone who has been on the battlefield.
I have collected more than ten famous horses, and I do not feel any regret if one is missing. " Chaitian waved his hand to stop Fan Xiu, who was about to pay his respects, "But what about... heh heh..."
Perhaps due to the infrequent habitation, this residence is devoid of any furnishings or decorations, giving it a spacious appearance. The wooden floors and walls are quite neat and splendid, with a quality far superior to that of the Ping family house in the ancient wilderness.
"What a surprise!" Shibata suddenly slapped his thigh, "I heard that the day before yesterday, you came to the ancient ferry with your elder brother, riding an old horse?"
"It has been several years since I last saw him," Chiba said, stroking his beard.
Hmm. Shibata gazed ahead, pondering for a moment. "I remember it was the banquet for His Highness, with the warriors of Owari gathering. Those children could only boast and argue, their faces flushed with excitement, yet you remained remarkably composed, saying nothing at all. At that time, I couldn't help but exclaim that the heir of the Kanmon Hall is indeed extraordinary.
Chiba was astonished and laughed heartily, then returned to the room
After exchanging a few pleasantries, Sheng Chun's expression became somewhat serious as he brought up the matter at hand: "Uncle is already waiting at home, it would be best to set off immediately."
When Shibata Katsuie arrived at Kodo Castle, it was only natural for him to pay a visit to Nobunaga first. Han Shuu also took the opportunity to inquire with his colleagues about the Shibata family. At this time, the future renowned general Shibata Katsuie was in his thirties and had no offspring. Among the adult males in his family, apart from a half-brother, there was only Katsuhiro, his recently adult nephew. From what he had heard, it seemed that Shibata Katsuhiro did not inherit the martial prowess of the Shibata family, nor had he studied much, but he was known for his amiable and meticulous nature, maintaining good relations with the younger generations of the Owari clans, thus serving as a significant support for the Shibata family.
Shibata Katsuie has never uttered any outrageous words; instead, he has been tirelessly guiding newcomers as a senior. Apart from occasionally expressing dissatisfaction with Nobunaga, there have been no abnormal actions.