SW3E: Oda Story
Translation of the Oda story path in SW3: Empires, where Toshiie is the hero and Nobunaga is a side character.
08/06/13: Made some minor revisions and corrections.
29/08/13: Combined both sections into one.
20/11/13: Filled in some missing lines and did some formatting changes.
Notes:
1. Mainly based on gameplay vids. There are some parts, especially in the later chapters, where the video is blurry so I relied on the audio for those parts. And then sometimes the dialogue is fast-forwarded so I just... made some guesses. All the blanks have been filled in!
2. Battle chatter not included.
3. 上洛 (jouraku) is a term that crops up quite often and I usually translate it as 'march/ proceed to the capital/ Kyoto'. Literally, it means 'to go to Kyoto' but from what I gather (from wiki jp and google results) is that it's closer to a pilgrimage though that's not very accurate either. Generally, it's for glory. Since Kyoto is the seat of the Imperial Court and the Ashikaga shogunate, receiving permission to go to the capital is an acknowledgement of a daimyo's strength and influence. It probably also has something to do with court titles and the clout they carry even in the provinces. It also wasn't an easy thing to do, since leading an army, even a tiny one, across potentially hostile provinces was no easy task. ...Uh, anyway. I confess to being somewhat 'what's the big deal about going to Kyoto?' when I first came across the word and thus this tl;dr.
4. Ashikaga Yoshiaki sounds amazingly camp. Here's a video of the second chapter where he appears right at the start. This is the first chapter if you want to watch from the start (recommended). Subsequent chapters are linked in the descriptions.
Chapter 1: The Fool of Owari
Background (from the databook): In 1551, the head of the Oda clan and daimyo of Owari, Nobuhide, passed away. His son, Nobunaga, who was called a fool, was favoured as the heir. Even at Nobuhide's funeral, Nobunaga acted strangely and threw incense at the altar. Among all the Oda retainers whose loyalty had begun to waver, Toshiie harboured suspicions only against Ranmaru, who calmly remains loyal to Nobunaga. At this time, the lord of Suruga, Imagawa Yoshimoto, attacked the Owari. Many believed that the Oda would fall, but Nobunaga turned the tables and defeated the Imagawa. He then went on to formed alliances with the Tokugawa and the Azai, and began plans to attack Minō. Toshiie was unable to accept Nobunaga's decision to attack the home of Nobunaga's own wife, and was irritated by Ranmaru emotionless 'We only need obey Lord Nobunaga's commands.'
Cutscene:
Third Tembun year.
The head of the Oda clan, Nobuhide, fell ill and died suddenly.
His funeral was held at Owari.
Nobunaga: A new era is dawning.
Event: The Imagawa march to Kyoto
The Oda clan who were the daimyo of Owari and the Imagawa clan who were proceeding to the capital had long been fighting in and around the provinces of Owari and Mikawa.
Three years after Nobuhide's death, in the 23rd Tembun year (1544), Imagawa Yoshimoto formed a three-way alliance with the Takeda of Kai and the Hōjō of Suruga. There was no looking back from then on.
Toshiie, a general in the Oda army, and his peer, Hideyoshi, were discussing matters at his home.
Hideyoshi: Toshiie, Imagawa has finally made his move. He is leading twenty-five thousand men to Owari.
Toshiie: We'll be lucky if we can gather two thousand. But neither Lord Nobunaga nor Uncle is doing anything! We don't know at all if we'll be riding out to attack or preparing for a siege!
Faced with the restless Toshiie, Hideyoshi turned on his side and closed his eyes.
Hideyoshi: Toshiie, you have known Nobunaga for longer than I have. You should know this. There's absolutely nothing in the world that can take him by surprise.
Toshiie: Rather than to say he's not bothered by this, he's acting strange. He even threw the incense during his father's funeral.
Hideyoshi: He's that kind of person, so he'll come up with something amazing. That's what I believe in and that's why I serve the Oda clan.
Toshiie: But... hmm? It's noisy outside. Who's the fool making such a racket early in the morning?
Unable to bear the noise, Hideyoshi got up and took up his weapon.
Hideyoshi: ...It's Lord Nobunaga! We're preparing for war! Toshiie, if you space out anymore you'll be left behind as the times move on!
Toshiie: Hey, wait up, Hideyoshi! Where are you going?!
Nobunaga had set off with only his page. He rode towards Okehazama, where the Imagawa troops had set up camp.
Nobunaga: O-Ran, relay this to Katsuie and the rest. Tell them to follow me, and then to charge ahead of me.
Ranmaru: Yes.
Battle: Okehazama - Oda vs Imagawa
Event: After Okehazama
Imagawa Yoshimoto was defeated by Nobunaga's unconventional assault and the Imagawa troops quickly fell without their leader.
Tokugawa Ieyasu of Mikawa, who was serving the Imagawa, took this chance to become independent.
Event: The prelude* to conquering the land
(*the term used here is 'fuseki', referring to openings in a game of Go)
Nobunaga suddenly formed an alliance with the Tokugawa and the Azai. Nobunaga's younger sister, Oichi was married off to Azai Nagamasa.
(I didn't realise how tiny Katsuie is...)
Toshiie: I understand why Lord Nobunaga is allying with Mikawa's Ieyasu. With Ieyasu on our side, Owari's eastern front will be safe.
Toshiie: However, I don't understand why he's allying with Omi's Azai. Omi's right next to Minō, isn't it? And it feels like Lady Oichi has been married off so that she can be a hostage...
Katsuie: Stop it, Toshiie. If you have your doubts about your orders, voice them to the lord and be prepared to die.
Ranmaru: Lord Katsuie, Lord Nobunaga summons you... Lord Toshiie, what is it?
Toshiie pushed Ranmaru's shoulders roughly.
Toshiie: Hey, Ranmaru, you should know, right? So tell me, why is Lord Nobunaga allying with the Azai?
Ranmaru: First of all, Lord Toshiie, please do not grab my shoulders so suddenly. It's hard to talk this way.
Ranmaru moved away from Toshiie and straightened his clothes. He then sat down seiza-style before Toshiie and Katsuie.
Ranmaru: Nobunaga's aim is to corner Minō. By allying with the Azai, Owari and Omi together will be in the right place to attack Minō.
Ranmaru: In addition, Omi is close to Kyoto and this alliance will ease Lord Nobunaga's journey to the capital.
Toshiie: Is Lord Nobunaga planning to attack Minō? What about the lady he married who's from the Saitō clan? Wouldn't he be attacking her home?
Toshiie: He can't do that, can he, Uncle? He's a heartless bastard if he abandons his moral codes!
Katsuie: Don't make a fuss, Toshiie.
Toshiie: Is it okay for him to break moral codes because he's Lord Nobunaga? Then, even if Lady Oichi is married to the Azai clan... he can just decide to abandon his obligations to the Azai?!
Katsuie: Quiet, Toshiie! Ranmaru, this is also your fault for talking too much. Go back to the lord now.
Ranmaru: As he rightfully said, I talked too much. Lord Toshiie, I will take my leave now.
Toshiie: Uncle, what on earth is going to happen?
Event: Nō's feelings
After the alliance with the Azai, Nobunaga gathered his important retainers and announced his plans to attack Minō.
Nobunaga: We will attack Minō. Everyone, be prepared.
Toshiie: My lady, are you aware of Lord Nobunaga's plans to attack Minō?
Nō: Yes, I am. And what of it?
Toshiie: That means he'll be attacking my lady's home... There's definitely something wrong here, isn't there?
Nō: In that case, why don't you rebel against him and stop him?
Toshiie: No, I... that's...
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie, Lord Nobunaga summons you. It is urgent, so please head there immediately.
Ranmaru walked ahead of Toshiie. Suddenly, he stopped and turned back, and began to advise Toshiie.
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie, forgive my impudence but it would be advisable for you to refrain from acting carelessly on your emotions.
Toshiie: I am not a puppet. What's wrong with a person acting on his feelings?
Ranmaru: Compared to being someone who tangles himself in worrying matters without thinking and yet is unable to resolve them... Perhaps a puppet is preferable to such a person...
Just as Toshiie was about to hit Ranmaru, Hideyoshi appeared and forced his hand behind his back.
Hideyoshi: Alright, stop right there. Ranmaru, you should go on ahead.
Ranmaru: Please excuse me.
Toshiie: Let me go, Hideyoshi! How dare that brat make fun of me! I won't rest easy until I give him a good punch!
Hideyoshi: You're the one who's the brat here, Toshiie. Ranmaru was quick-witted enough to call you away. If you had stayed with Lady Nō any longer, someone more powerful would have seen you.
Toshiie: Shut up! I won't be satisfied until I hit him!
Hideyoshi: Geez, you're as quick-tempered as ever. Come on, it's time to prepare for war, Toshiie! You're going to be left behind in the battle to attack Minō.
Battle: Minō-Hida - Oda vs Saitō
Event: Emotions
Ranmaru: This is a message from Lord Nobunaga. Lord Toshiie has done well in the battle and he congratulates you on your achievements.
Toshiie: Is that right? Ah, looks like I didn't bring shame to the name of Mataza of the Spear*!
Ranmaru: ...I don't understand. You weren't keen on this battle due to Lady Nō's connection to it and yet you were so aggressive on the battlefield.
Toshiie: That- I... Well, it's only natural to distinguish oneself on the battlefield.
Ranmaru: That's right. We who serve need only obey our lord's commands. Idle thoughts would only invite danger.
Toshiie: What are you trying to say?
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie, as long as we are living in these chaotic times, please put aside your compassion. The road Lord Nobunaga walks is a harsh one. Naive thoughts have no place in it.
Ranmaru: If you continue to act as you had in the battle just now, solely believing in Lord Nobunaga and obeying only his commands, the results will come to you. Do not forget that.
Ranmaru: Now, please excuse me.
Toshiie: What's up with him?
*Toshiie was once known as Matazaemon. Due to his skill with the spear, he became known as Yari no Mataza (Mataza of the spear).
Chapter 2: Tenka Fubu
Background: Mitsuhide had worked to bring Ashikaga Yoshiaki to Nobunaga's side, and Nobunaga was given the task of of supporting Yoshiaki's troops to the capital.
Ashikaga Yoshiaki, a descendant of the shoguns of the Muromachi shogunate, avoided the chaos in Kyoto and was wandering around various provinces. It was then that through Mitsuhide's intervention, he met Nobunaga.
Yoshiaki: Nobunaga, we're heading to the capital right now! I will quickly become the fifteenth shogun and I will then make you the vice shogun.
Nobunaga: My wish is not for a position in the court, but to destroy the ways of the world, to bring on the dawn of a new era... to spread military rule over the land!
Yoshiaki: What's that all of a sudden?
Nobunaga: However, I will grant your wish.
Yoshiaki: Mitsuhide, that man is a fool beyond all fools. My sixth sense is telling me not to work with him. Is this alright? Is everything going to be okay?
Mitsuhide: Do not worry. He has unified Owari and conquered Minō, no other man can be compared to him. He will surely be a heartening ally to have, Lord Yoshiaki.
From then on, together with Mitsuhide who had introduced him to Yoshiaki, Nobunaga set his eyes on marching to the capital.
Event: Hanbei joins
Toshiie was resting at home when Hideyoshi brought someone unknown to visit him.
Hideyoshi: Toshiie, there's someone I want to introduce you to. This is my strategist, Takenaka Hanbei.
Hanbei: A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mataza of the Spear.
Toshiie: Hideyoshi, you're a pretty smart guy yourself. Do you need a strategist?
Hideyoshi: That's not it, Toshiie. Hanbei's wisdom is said to be comparable to that of the famous Chinese strategist, Shokatsu Koumei*. He's ten, no, a hundred times more brilliant than I am!
Toshiie: A hundred times more brilliant than Hideyoshi... that means a thousand times compared to me! What kind of brain do you have in there?
Hanbei: Haha, you're just as the rumours say, Toshiie. Frank and carefree. You're a rare one among the Oda men, aren't you?
Toshiie: Well, it's true that I might be a little out of it these days. Uncle often scolds me and to be honest, I often don't understand what Lord Nobunaga's saying...
Hanbei: Huh, but is that a bad thing? I don't understand him either.
Hideyoshi: Now now, Hanbei!
Hanbei: If you don't understand something, you should just say that you don't understand. The worst kind of people are those who don't understand what's going on, but just follow him anyway.
Hanbei: Those people are the ones who'll change their tune after everything's over. They'll say that this wasn't how it should be and stuff like that.
Ranmaru: Is this where you were, Lord Hideyoshi. Lord Nobunaga summons you.
Hideyoshi: Is he? Sorry guys, I need to leave for a while.
Hanbei: The same goes for that page. All he sees is Nobunaga. If Nobunaga discards him, he'll be devastated.
* yes, Shokatsu Kōmei = Zhuge Liang
Battle: Yamato - Oda vs Tsutsui
Event: Yoshiaki marches to the capital
Having conquered Yamato, Nobunaga proceeded to the capital with Yoshiaki and Yoshiaki became the fifteenth Ashikaga shogun.
Yoshiaki: Well done, Nobunaga! You deserve all the praise I can heap on you. Name your reward and I will grant it to you.
Nobunaga: In that case, do not speak.
Nobunaga: Now, we shall attack the Asakura who oppose me!
Yoshiaki: Mitsuhide, Nobunaga thinks lightly of m- the glory of this shogunate. All I need to do is call out to the people in this land and he will be crushed to pieces! Listen carefully, I am not to be underestimated!
Mitsuhide: Lord Yoshiaki, please cease your words. Lord Nobunaga is the one who will heal the land. If you wish to remain as shogun, please be good and stay in the capital.
Led by Nobunaga, the Oda army crossed the eastern shore of Lake Biwa and invaded Echizen. They were starting their attack on the Asakura.
Event: Bag of beans
A military proclamation was read out at Odani Castle. The enemy: the army attacking Echizen, the Oda troops.
Nagamasai: The Asakura have been our allies for many years. We cannot desert them now. I will break my ties with my brother-in-law, and attack him from the back. Ichi, please forgive me.
Oichi: There's nothing for me to forgive. I am your wife. I will follow you wherever you go.
Nagamasai: Ichi... I will defeat my brother-in-law! And then, I will create a world where my brother-in-law and the Asakura are brought together in peace!
Oichi: Please forgive me, brother. The only thing I can do for you now is to send you this bag.
Soon, a bag of beans was delivered to the Oda camp.
Toshiie: Hey, Ranmaru. Lady Oichi sent this to Lord Nobunaga. It looks like a bag of beans with both ends tied... what the hell is it?
Ranmaru: This is...! We must inform Lord Nobunaga at once! Lord Toshiie, please excuse me!
Hanbei: Toshiie, it appears that Nagamasa has betrayed the Oda. The beans are the Oda troops, the ties at both ends indicates the Asakura and the Azai. At this rate, they'll have us trapped both front and back.
Hanbei: I'm going to let Hideyoshi know about this too.
Toshiie: What! Has Nagamasa abandoned his moral code...
Battle: Kanegasaki - Oda vs Azai
Event: Hanbei's warning
The Oda army managed to escape death.
Toshiie: Hey Hanbei, Lord Nobunaga's the one who's closest to uniting the land, isn't he? So why are there so many enemies around us all of a sudden? Why are they all opposing him?
Hanbei: Everyone's afraid of Nobunaga. They don't know what he'll do. However, their instinct tells them that they're in danger.
Hanbei: Nobunaga changes the way wars are fought and even the speed at which we live our lives. He started using rifles recently, didn't he? That's part of it. If we use rifles, anyone can be a soldier, young or old, men or women.
Hanbei: By doing that, Nobunaga plans to use a lot of people as his pawns and forcibly bring an end to the chaotic times. …Can they forgive that?
Hanbei: Toshiie, from now on there will be even more enemies around us. They can't forgive Nobunaga for treating the people as pawns and tools.
Ranmaru: That's not true! Lord Nobunaga... Lord Nobunaga is doing all he can while thinking of the people...
Hanbei: In that case, answer me, Ranmaru. What kind of world is Nobunaga building? And what are you aiming for?
Ranmaru: ….................
Hanbei: You can't answer. This is because you only know to follow Nobunaga. Nobunaga himself most likely won't be able to answer either. That man has no interest in things like this.
Hanbei: He is only interested in those who are risking their own future to move forward, and the future that those people will make. Am I wrong, Ranmaru?
Toshiie: That's enough, Hanbei. Ranmaru has his own way of thinking.
Toshiie: The same goes for me! I am not be as sharp as you... but I spend every day struggling and fighting for the sake of Lord Nobunaga and for the land.
Ranmaru: I am very sorry. I don't feel... Please excuse me.
Toshiie: Hanbei, you went too far. He may look like he's got it all together, but he's still a kid.
Hanbei: He's a kid so he should be more emotional. But even after I said all that, he still restrains his emotions. He's too desperate, and too sorrowful...
Hanbei: That's why I don't like Nobunaga. He influences everything around him and then you end up with people like Ranmaru.
Hanbei: ...However, I didn't expect you to stand up for Ranmaru. I thought you guys didn't get on well.
Toshiie: I came to where I am now by chasing after Uncle's and Lord Nobunaga's footsteps. I was just as desperate as he is… and I became a better person*.
Toshiie: He reminds me of myself back then. That's why, if he is in danger as you have said, I would like to support him, even a little.
Hanbei: Toshiie...
* the original phrase is 魂を磨いて which literally means 'polishing one's own soul'. It's not easy to explain what it means (and I'm not very clear on the meaning myself!) but I think it means something like to cleanse your spirit/soul. Something like getting rid of negative influences such as greed, lust, etc from your inner self.
Chapter 3: The net around Nobunaga
Event: The net around Nobunaga
As Hanbei had foretold, the forces opposing Nobunaga intensified.
Katsuie: The Miyoshi of Settsu and the Saika of Kii are rousing the people and instigating rebellions in the areas near the capital.
Katsuie: The Azai and the Asakura are also gathering people from the provinces and obstructing our movements.
Hideyoshi: In addition, the Takeda of Kai are showing signs of marching to the capital.
Hideyoshi: Lord Nobunaga, this sudden turn of events must have been planned by someone...
Mitsuhide: Lord Nobunaga, we cannot reject the possibility that Lord Yoshiaki is involved.
Nobunaga: That's fine. I shall just dispose of all who attempt to stop the march of time.
Nobunaga: I shall destroy the Miyoshi and the Saika who are rebelling near the capital. ...These are my orders for the entire army. 'Eradicate all who are involved with the Miyoshi or the Saika.'
Nobunaga's harsh orders were relayed to the entire army.
Ranmaru: I have relayed Lord Nobunaga's orders. You should hurry to help with the preparations to depart.
Toshiie: Is he serious with those orders? Ranmaru! What do you think?! Doesn't it hurt you? We are fighting against the civilians!
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie, I have already told you this. The path Lord Nobunaga walks is the shortest one that will bring an end to these chaotic times. There is no room for sympathy.
Toshiie: ...I don't care about Lord Nobunaga. I'm asking you what you think about this! Don't run away from your own feelings!
Ranmaru: Again, I have told you this countless times. I will only obey Lord Nobunaga's orders. Well then, please excuse me.
Toshiie: Ranmaru...
Battle: Kizugawaguchi - Oda vs Mōri
Event: Demon King
Hanbei and Toshiie faced the cruel battlefield, standing stock still.
Toshiie: It's no good, Hanbei. I don't understand this at all. Was it necessary to go this far?
Hanbei: It seems that Lord Hideyoshi has his doubts too. Well, anyone would think the same way.
Hanbei: However, the kind Mitsuhide and the sorrowful Ranmaru do not reveal their emotions and just believe in Nobunaga. Or rather, they think that they are right for believing in Nobunaga.
Hanbei: You're probably the only one who can save the sorrowful Ranmaru, Toshiie. No matter how hard one tries to speak rationally to him, it won't get through.
Toshiie: I can save Ranmaru?
Hanbei: Well, pardon me for being rude but you're reckless, you make mistakes, you get confused, you get irritated looking at the state of things-
Toshiie: Hey! Ah, come to think of it, Ranmaru has told me the same thing...
Hanbei: However, you're open with your feelings when you talk to others. That's what everyone likes about you, and that includes Lord Hideyoshi and Ranmaru. And perhaps even Nobunaga...
Hanbei: It may already be impossible for Nobunaga and Mitsuhide... but please save Ranmaru, alright? Someone as passionate as you...
Toshiie: Are you feeling unwell? You look pale...
Hanbei: I wonder if Kanbei's pallor is contagious? Hey, looks like there's going to be another war meeting. Let's go, Toshiie!
The cruel battle at Kizugawaguchi resulted in the powerful daimyō in the land condemning Nobunaga as the Demon King and standing up against him. The net around Nobunaga tightened.
Soon, the Takeda of Kai marched to the capital. They defeated the Tokugawa and attacked the Oda. At the same time, the Azai-Asakura alliance were heading south.
The survivors of the Saika clan, who bore a grudge against Nobunaga, were also rebelling. The Oda were in their biggest predicament.
Battle: Anegawa - Oda vs Azai
Event: Consoling Oichi
After the Battle of Anegawa, the Takeda retreated to Kai. The Azai and the Asakura were destroyed by Nobunaga. Nagamasa died and having lost her husband, Oichi returned to the Oda clan.
Toshiie: Lady Oichi, I know that you must be in great pain right now but you should try to eat something.
Toshiie: Ah, I know! How about some rice balls? O-Matsu's rice balls are amazingly good! Her salted plum rice balls are delicious, I feel so happy just eating them...
Quietly listening to Toshiie's words, Oichi's eyes began to fill with tears.
Nō: That's cruel of you, Toshiie. To speak of such things to Ichi right now...
Toshiie: Ah, ahhhhhhh!! No, Lady Oichi, that wasn't what I... I'm sorry! I'm sorry!
Toshiie bowed his head repeatedly while apologising profusely.
Oichi: May I have some rice balls?
Oichi: O-Matsu's rice balls... I wish to try them after hearing your words.
Toshiie: Yes, sure! They'll be done right away so just wait a bit!
Nō: He's always so slow-witted. I wonder what he sees in him...
Oichi: Toshiie resembles Lord Nagamasa a little... He's honest with his feelings and kind towards those around him. Perhaps what my brother wants is that part of him...
Oichi: I'm sure you don't dislike him too. You came here because you were worried that he'll make a mess of things, didn't you?
Nō: No, that's wrong. I came because I was worried about my cute little sister-in-law.
Oichi: Let's just leave it at that.
Soon, the entrapped Nobunaga broke off the alliance with the Ashikaga. He set off to attack Ashikaga Yoshiaki, who had orchestrated the opposing coalition, and advanced his troops to Yamazaki.
Battle: Yamashiro-Tamba - Oda vs Ashikaga
Event: Formation
Nobunaga banished Ashikaga Yoshiaki from the capital and the Muromachi shogunate came to an end.
Having suppressed most of the surrounding areas, Nobunaga sent his generals to all corners of the land. He began to spread military rule throughout the land.
Nobunaga: Katsuie will take the Uesugi, Monkey will take the Mōri. Mitsuhide will suppress the remaining forces in Kinki.
Hanbei: What's wrong, Toshiie. You look so lifeless next to me.
Toshiie: Both Uncle and Hideyoshi are leading the troops. I'm the only one left behind...
Hanbei: Haha, looks like you fell off the path to glory...
Toshiie: Go on, why don't you. I'm gonna grit my teeth and chase after them, and one day I'll surpass both Hideyoshi and Uncle!
Hanbei: Good luck, Toshiie. If no one chases after those who are walking ahead, they'll think that they have no rivals...
Toshiie: Yeah! You too, work hard but don't push yourself too far. Alright, I should be going to Uncle's place. Send my regards to Hideyoshi!
Toshiie went to the front lines in aid of Katsuie.
Final Chapter: Beyond the Future
Event: Hanbei's death
Urgent news from Hideyoshi reached the frontlines where Toshiie was. Takenaka Hanbei was on the verge of death. Toshiie left his post and rushed to Hanbei's side.
Hanbei: Toshiie, shouldn't you be at the frontlines? Don't tell me you left the army without permission? You'll be in danger if they find out...
Toshiie: Idiot, you're the one whose life is in danger! It doesn't matter what happens to me. You should return to your province and rest, alright?
Hanbei: Toshiie, I am going to die soon but please save Ranmaru with that reckless yet passionate spirit of yours.
Hanbei: And also, I'm going to leave the task of creating a world with everyone can sleep happily to you. I'm sure Lord Hideyoshi and you are capable of achieving it...
Hanbei: ...With this, I have no worries left. Toshiie, hurry and return to the frontlines. You might really end up being punished for disobeying orders...
Toshiie: Hanbei? Hey, hang in there, Hanbei!
Silently, Hanbei ceased to breathe.
Toshiie: Hanbei, I will carry out your wishes!
Battle: Tedorigawa - Oda vs Uesugi
Event: Disperse*
*as in dispersing rumours, clearing away doubts
Toshiie: Ranmaru! Thanks to you, we managed to repel the Uesugi! Thanks!
Ranmaru: I only participated in the battle on Lord Nobunaga's orders.
Toshiie: Even so, I'm grateful to you. The battle was a huge success!
Ranmaru: Putting that aside, Lord Toshiie... there's a rumour going around that you left the army without permission and met with Lord Hanbei...
Toshiie: Huh? Well, that... Look, there's no way that strict uncle of mine is going to give me permission, right?
Ranmaru: You're too excitable, Lord Toshiie. I shall report to Lord Nobunaga.
Toshiie: R-Ranmaru, wait! Isn't it normal to want to see a friend who's on his deathbed?
Ranmaru: Which is why I shall tell him this. There is no evidence that Lord Toshiie left the army and the rumours are just that.
Toshiie: Ranmaru!
After the battle of Tedorigawa, Uesugi Kenshin died from illness. In order to expel the Uesugi forces from the Hokuriku region, the Oda army headed east again.
Event: Rumours of Nobunaga's assassination
Toshiie: Uncle, our next target is Ecchū. And after we take that, we'll reach the heart of the Uesugi stronghold, Echigo! We're gradually getting nearer to a land united under Lord Nobunaga's rule!
Katsuie: There is one thing that bothers me. Right now, our troops are scattered all over and the lord is short of hands.
Katsuie: There people out there aiming for the lord's life. We need to inform the higher-ups about this so that they will remain vigilant.
That night, at Toshiie's camp...
Messenger: I come from Lord Hanbei. He told me to pass this to you when the time comes.
Toshiie read the letter Hanbei had sent him.
Ta-da~ This is my final flash of brilliance. I predict that trouble will happen at Kyoto in the near future. It seems that the remnants of the Saika, the Mōri and the Chōsokabe are conspiring in secret.
Recently, Lord Hideyoshi and Katsuie have been departing for war. Everyone's so eager to go out and attack, aren't they? In my opinion, this is when we are most vulnerable.
Toshiie, if possible, please protect Ranmaru. Ah, I'm sorry but I don't care what happens to Nobunaga. Well then, I'm leaving everything to you!
Hanbei
Toshiie quietly read Hanbei's letter, and then went over to Katsuie's camp.
Toshiie: Uncle! Please allow me to leave the army! Hanbei has warned me that Lord Nobunaga might be in impending danger!
Katsuie: You have left the army without permission once. Now, you believe in the words of one who's no longer in the world and once again wants to leave the army?
Toshiie: If you want to punish me, you can do that once I've confirmed that Lord Nobunaga and the rest are fine! Please allow me to leave, Uncle!
Toshiie repeatedly begged Katsuie for permission to leave.
Katsuie: ...Get out of my sight. I alone am enough to take on the Uesugi who have lost Kenshin. Someone as useless as you should be punished by Lord Nobunaga himself.
Toshiie: Uncle...! Thank you!
Hanbei's prediction was spot-on. The survivors of the Saika clan guided those who opposed Nobunaga into rebelling near the capital. Nobunaga's besieged Azuchi Castle was facing a fierce assault.
Battle: Toshiie barges in - Oda vs Mōri
Cutscene:
Toshiie: You're going with Nobunaga to where Hideyoshi is, right?
Ranmaru: Yes, after we stop by at Honnōji.
Ranmaru: What are you doing?!
Toshiie: Listen! Don't ever take your life lightly!
Toshiie: If you're ever in trouble, don't hold back and ask Hideyoshi for help!
Ranmaru: I understand, I understand already so... please go of me!
Toshiie: Just like that, go ahead and get angry, laugh and cry.
Toshiie: That's what it means to be human!
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie...
Ranmaru: Is this okay?
Ranmaru: If you don't return soon, Lord Katsuie will be angry.
-THE END-
I just want to say that I love all the Toshiie, Ranmaru and Hanbei interactions here, and how different they are.
08/06/13: Made some minor revisions and corrections.
29/08/13: Combined both sections into one.
20/11/13: Filled in some missing lines and did some formatting changes.
Notes:
1. Mainly based on gameplay vids. There are some parts, especially in the later chapters, where the video is blurry so I relied on the audio for those parts. And then sometimes the dialogue is fast-forwarded so I just... made some guesses. All the blanks have been filled in!
2. Battle chatter not included.
3. 上洛 (jouraku) is a term that crops up quite often and I usually translate it as 'march/ proceed to the capital/ Kyoto'. Literally, it means 'to go to Kyoto' but from what I gather (from wiki jp and google results) is that it's closer to a pilgrimage though that's not very accurate either. Generally, it's for glory. Since Kyoto is the seat of the Imperial Court and the Ashikaga shogunate, receiving permission to go to the capital is an acknowledgement of a daimyo's strength and influence. It probably also has something to do with court titles and the clout they carry even in the provinces. It also wasn't an easy thing to do, since leading an army, even a tiny one, across potentially hostile provinces was no easy task. ...Uh, anyway. I confess to being somewhat 'what's the big deal about going to Kyoto?' when I first came across the word and thus this tl;dr.
4. Ashikaga Yoshiaki sounds amazingly camp. Here's a video of the second chapter where he appears right at the start. This is the first chapter if you want to watch from the start (recommended). Subsequent chapters are linked in the descriptions.
Chapter 1: The Fool of Owari
Background (from the databook): In 1551, the head of the Oda clan and daimyo of Owari, Nobuhide, passed away. His son, Nobunaga, who was called a fool, was favoured as the heir. Even at Nobuhide's funeral, Nobunaga acted strangely and threw incense at the altar. Among all the Oda retainers whose loyalty had begun to waver, Toshiie harboured suspicions only against Ranmaru, who calmly remains loyal to Nobunaga. At this time, the lord of Suruga, Imagawa Yoshimoto, attacked the Owari. Many believed that the Oda would fall, but Nobunaga turned the tables and defeated the Imagawa. He then went on to formed alliances with the Tokugawa and the Azai, and began plans to attack Minō. Toshiie was unable to accept Nobunaga's decision to attack the home of Nobunaga's own wife, and was irritated by Ranmaru emotionless 'We only need obey Lord Nobunaga's commands.'
Cutscene:
Third Tembun year.
The head of the Oda clan, Nobuhide, fell ill and died suddenly.
His funeral was held at Owari.
Nobunaga: A new era is dawning.
Event: The Imagawa march to Kyoto
The Oda clan who were the daimyo of Owari and the Imagawa clan who were proceeding to the capital had long been fighting in and around the provinces of Owari and Mikawa.
Three years after Nobuhide's death, in the 23rd Tembun year (1544), Imagawa Yoshimoto formed a three-way alliance with the Takeda of Kai and the Hōjō of Suruga. There was no looking back from then on.
Toshiie, a general in the Oda army, and his peer, Hideyoshi, were discussing matters at his home.
Hideyoshi: Toshiie, Imagawa has finally made his move. He is leading twenty-five thousand men to Owari.
Toshiie: We'll be lucky if we can gather two thousand. But neither Lord Nobunaga nor Uncle is doing anything! We don't know at all if we'll be riding out to attack or preparing for a siege!
Faced with the restless Toshiie, Hideyoshi turned on his side and closed his eyes.
Hideyoshi: Toshiie, you have known Nobunaga for longer than I have. You should know this. There's absolutely nothing in the world that can take him by surprise.
Toshiie: Rather than to say he's not bothered by this, he's acting strange. He even threw the incense during his father's funeral.
Hideyoshi: He's that kind of person, so he'll come up with something amazing. That's what I believe in and that's why I serve the Oda clan.
Toshiie: But... hmm? It's noisy outside. Who's the fool making such a racket early in the morning?
Unable to bear the noise, Hideyoshi got up and took up his weapon.
Hideyoshi: ...It's Lord Nobunaga! We're preparing for war! Toshiie, if you space out anymore you'll be left behind as the times move on!
Toshiie: Hey, wait up, Hideyoshi! Where are you going?!
Nobunaga had set off with only his page. He rode towards Okehazama, where the Imagawa troops had set up camp.
Nobunaga: O-Ran, relay this to Katsuie and the rest. Tell them to follow me, and then to charge ahead of me.
Ranmaru: Yes.
Battle: Okehazama - Oda vs Imagawa
Event: After Okehazama
Imagawa Yoshimoto was defeated by Nobunaga's unconventional assault and the Imagawa troops quickly fell without their leader.
Tokugawa Ieyasu of Mikawa, who was serving the Imagawa, took this chance to become independent.
Event: The prelude* to conquering the land
(*the term used here is 'fuseki', referring to openings in a game of Go)
Nobunaga suddenly formed an alliance with the Tokugawa and the Azai. Nobunaga's younger sister, Oichi was married off to Azai Nagamasa.
(I didn't realise how tiny Katsuie is...)
Toshiie: I understand why Lord Nobunaga is allying with Mikawa's Ieyasu. With Ieyasu on our side, Owari's eastern front will be safe.
Toshiie: However, I don't understand why he's allying with Omi's Azai. Omi's right next to Minō, isn't it? And it feels like Lady Oichi has been married off so that she can be a hostage...
Katsuie: Stop it, Toshiie. If you have your doubts about your orders, voice them to the lord and be prepared to die.
Ranmaru: Lord Katsuie, Lord Nobunaga summons you... Lord Toshiie, what is it?
Toshiie pushed Ranmaru's shoulders roughly.
Toshiie: Hey, Ranmaru, you should know, right? So tell me, why is Lord Nobunaga allying with the Azai?
Ranmaru: First of all, Lord Toshiie, please do not grab my shoulders so suddenly. It's hard to talk this way.
Ranmaru moved away from Toshiie and straightened his clothes. He then sat down seiza-style before Toshiie and Katsuie.
Ranmaru: Nobunaga's aim is to corner Minō. By allying with the Azai, Owari and Omi together will be in the right place to attack Minō.
Ranmaru: In addition, Omi is close to Kyoto and this alliance will ease Lord Nobunaga's journey to the capital.
Toshiie: Is Lord Nobunaga planning to attack Minō? What about the lady he married who's from the Saitō clan? Wouldn't he be attacking her home?
Toshiie: He can't do that, can he, Uncle? He's a heartless bastard if he abandons his moral codes!
Katsuie: Don't make a fuss, Toshiie.
Toshiie: Is it okay for him to break moral codes because he's Lord Nobunaga? Then, even if Lady Oichi is married to the Azai clan... he can just decide to abandon his obligations to the Azai?!
Katsuie: Quiet, Toshiie! Ranmaru, this is also your fault for talking too much. Go back to the lord now.
Ranmaru: As he rightfully said, I talked too much. Lord Toshiie, I will take my leave now.
Toshiie: Uncle, what on earth is going to happen?
Event: Nō's feelings
After the alliance with the Azai, Nobunaga gathered his important retainers and announced his plans to attack Minō.
Nobunaga: We will attack Minō. Everyone, be prepared.
Toshiie: My lady, are you aware of Lord Nobunaga's plans to attack Minō?
Nō: Yes, I am. And what of it?
Toshiie: That means he'll be attacking my lady's home... There's definitely something wrong here, isn't there?
Nō: In that case, why don't you rebel against him and stop him?
Toshiie: No, I... that's...
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie, Lord Nobunaga summons you. It is urgent, so please head there immediately.
Ranmaru walked ahead of Toshiie. Suddenly, he stopped and turned back, and began to advise Toshiie.
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie, forgive my impudence but it would be advisable for you to refrain from acting carelessly on your emotions.
Toshiie: I am not a puppet. What's wrong with a person acting on his feelings?
Ranmaru: Compared to being someone who tangles himself in worrying matters without thinking and yet is unable to resolve them... Perhaps a puppet is preferable to such a person...
Just as Toshiie was about to hit Ranmaru, Hideyoshi appeared and forced his hand behind his back.
Hideyoshi: Alright, stop right there. Ranmaru, you should go on ahead.
Ranmaru: Please excuse me.
Toshiie: Let me go, Hideyoshi! How dare that brat make fun of me! I won't rest easy until I give him a good punch!
Hideyoshi: You're the one who's the brat here, Toshiie. Ranmaru was quick-witted enough to call you away. If you had stayed with Lady Nō any longer, someone more powerful would have seen you.
Toshiie: Shut up! I won't be satisfied until I hit him!
Hideyoshi: Geez, you're as quick-tempered as ever. Come on, it's time to prepare for war, Toshiie! You're going to be left behind in the battle to attack Minō.
Battle: Minō-Hida - Oda vs Saitō
Event: Emotions
Ranmaru: This is a message from Lord Nobunaga. Lord Toshiie has done well in the battle and he congratulates you on your achievements.
Toshiie: Is that right? Ah, looks like I didn't bring shame to the name of Mataza of the Spear*!
Ranmaru: ...I don't understand. You weren't keen on this battle due to Lady Nō's connection to it and yet you were so aggressive on the battlefield.
Toshiie: That- I... Well, it's only natural to distinguish oneself on the battlefield.
Ranmaru: That's right. We who serve need only obey our lord's commands. Idle thoughts would only invite danger.
Toshiie: What are you trying to say?
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie, as long as we are living in these chaotic times, please put aside your compassion. The road Lord Nobunaga walks is a harsh one. Naive thoughts have no place in it.
Ranmaru: If you continue to act as you had in the battle just now, solely believing in Lord Nobunaga and obeying only his commands, the results will come to you. Do not forget that.
Ranmaru: Now, please excuse me.
Toshiie: What's up with him?
*Toshiie was once known as Matazaemon. Due to his skill with the spear, he became known as Yari no Mataza (Mataza of the spear).
Chapter 2: Tenka Fubu
Background: Mitsuhide had worked to bring Ashikaga Yoshiaki to Nobunaga's side, and Nobunaga was given the task of of supporting Yoshiaki's troops to the capital.
Ashikaga Yoshiaki, a descendant of the shoguns of the Muromachi shogunate, avoided the chaos in Kyoto and was wandering around various provinces. It was then that through Mitsuhide's intervention, he met Nobunaga.
Yoshiaki: Nobunaga, we're heading to the capital right now! I will quickly become the fifteenth shogun and I will then make you the vice shogun.
Nobunaga: My wish is not for a position in the court, but to destroy the ways of the world, to bring on the dawn of a new era... to spread military rule over the land!
Yoshiaki: What's that all of a sudden?
Nobunaga: However, I will grant your wish.
Yoshiaki: Mitsuhide, that man is a fool beyond all fools. My sixth sense is telling me not to work with him. Is this alright? Is everything going to be okay?
Mitsuhide: Do not worry. He has unified Owari and conquered Minō, no other man can be compared to him. He will surely be a heartening ally to have, Lord Yoshiaki.
From then on, together with Mitsuhide who had introduced him to Yoshiaki, Nobunaga set his eyes on marching to the capital.
Event: Hanbei joins
Toshiie was resting at home when Hideyoshi brought someone unknown to visit him.
Hideyoshi: Toshiie, there's someone I want to introduce you to. This is my strategist, Takenaka Hanbei.
Hanbei: A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Mataza of the Spear.
Toshiie: Hideyoshi, you're a pretty smart guy yourself. Do you need a strategist?
Hideyoshi: That's not it, Toshiie. Hanbei's wisdom is said to be comparable to that of the famous Chinese strategist, Shokatsu Koumei*. He's ten, no, a hundred times more brilliant than I am!
Toshiie: A hundred times more brilliant than Hideyoshi... that means a thousand times compared to me! What kind of brain do you have in there?
Hanbei: Haha, you're just as the rumours say, Toshiie. Frank and carefree. You're a rare one among the Oda men, aren't you?
Toshiie: Well, it's true that I might be a little out of it these days. Uncle often scolds me and to be honest, I often don't understand what Lord Nobunaga's saying...
Hanbei: Huh, but is that a bad thing? I don't understand him either.
Hideyoshi: Now now, Hanbei!
Hanbei: If you don't understand something, you should just say that you don't understand. The worst kind of people are those who don't understand what's going on, but just follow him anyway.
Hanbei: Those people are the ones who'll change their tune after everything's over. They'll say that this wasn't how it should be and stuff like that.
Ranmaru: Is this where you were, Lord Hideyoshi. Lord Nobunaga summons you.
Hideyoshi: Is he? Sorry guys, I need to leave for a while.
Hanbei: The same goes for that page. All he sees is Nobunaga. If Nobunaga discards him, he'll be devastated.
* yes, Shokatsu Kōmei = Zhuge Liang
Battle: Yamato - Oda vs Tsutsui
Event: Yoshiaki marches to the capital
Having conquered Yamato, Nobunaga proceeded to the capital with Yoshiaki and Yoshiaki became the fifteenth Ashikaga shogun.
Yoshiaki: Well done, Nobunaga! You deserve all the praise I can heap on you. Name your reward and I will grant it to you.
Nobunaga: In that case, do not speak.
Nobunaga: Now, we shall attack the Asakura who oppose me!
Yoshiaki: Mitsuhide, Nobunaga thinks lightly of m- the glory of this shogunate. All I need to do is call out to the people in this land and he will be crushed to pieces! Listen carefully, I am not to be underestimated!
Mitsuhide: Lord Yoshiaki, please cease your words. Lord Nobunaga is the one who will heal the land. If you wish to remain as shogun, please be good and stay in the capital.
Led by Nobunaga, the Oda army crossed the eastern shore of Lake Biwa and invaded Echizen. They were starting their attack on the Asakura.
Event: Bag of beans
A military proclamation was read out at Odani Castle. The enemy: the army attacking Echizen, the Oda troops.
Nagamasai: The Asakura have been our allies for many years. We cannot desert them now. I will break my ties with my brother-in-law, and attack him from the back. Ichi, please forgive me.
Oichi: There's nothing for me to forgive. I am your wife. I will follow you wherever you go.
Nagamasai: Ichi... I will defeat my brother-in-law! And then, I will create a world where my brother-in-law and the Asakura are brought together in peace!
Oichi: Please forgive me, brother. The only thing I can do for you now is to send you this bag.
Soon, a bag of beans was delivered to the Oda camp.
Toshiie: Hey, Ranmaru. Lady Oichi sent this to Lord Nobunaga. It looks like a bag of beans with both ends tied... what the hell is it?
Ranmaru: This is...! We must inform Lord Nobunaga at once! Lord Toshiie, please excuse me!
Hanbei: Toshiie, it appears that Nagamasa has betrayed the Oda. The beans are the Oda troops, the ties at both ends indicates the Asakura and the Azai. At this rate, they'll have us trapped both front and back.
Hanbei: I'm going to let Hideyoshi know about this too.
Toshiie: What! Has Nagamasa abandoned his moral code...
Battle: Kanegasaki - Oda vs Azai
Event: Hanbei's warning
The Oda army managed to escape death.
Toshiie: Hey Hanbei, Lord Nobunaga's the one who's closest to uniting the land, isn't he? So why are there so many enemies around us all of a sudden? Why are they all opposing him?
Hanbei: Everyone's afraid of Nobunaga. They don't know what he'll do. However, their instinct tells them that they're in danger.
Hanbei: Nobunaga changes the way wars are fought and even the speed at which we live our lives. He started using rifles recently, didn't he? That's part of it. If we use rifles, anyone can be a soldier, young or old, men or women.
Hanbei: By doing that, Nobunaga plans to use a lot of people as his pawns and forcibly bring an end to the chaotic times. …Can they forgive that?
Hanbei: Toshiie, from now on there will be even more enemies around us. They can't forgive Nobunaga for treating the people as pawns and tools.
Ranmaru: That's not true! Lord Nobunaga... Lord Nobunaga is doing all he can while thinking of the people...
Hanbei: In that case, answer me, Ranmaru. What kind of world is Nobunaga building? And what are you aiming for?
Ranmaru: ….................
Hanbei: You can't answer. This is because you only know to follow Nobunaga. Nobunaga himself most likely won't be able to answer either. That man has no interest in things like this.
Hanbei: He is only interested in those who are risking their own future to move forward, and the future that those people will make. Am I wrong, Ranmaru?
Toshiie: That's enough, Hanbei. Ranmaru has his own way of thinking.
Toshiie: The same goes for me! I am not be as sharp as you... but I spend every day struggling and fighting for the sake of Lord Nobunaga and for the land.
Ranmaru: I am very sorry. I don't feel... Please excuse me.
Toshiie: Hanbei, you went too far. He may look like he's got it all together, but he's still a kid.
Hanbei: He's a kid so he should be more emotional. But even after I said all that, he still restrains his emotions. He's too desperate, and too sorrowful...
Hanbei: That's why I don't like Nobunaga. He influences everything around him and then you end up with people like Ranmaru.
Hanbei: ...However, I didn't expect you to stand up for Ranmaru. I thought you guys didn't get on well.
Toshiie: I came to where I am now by chasing after Uncle's and Lord Nobunaga's footsteps. I was just as desperate as he is… and I became a better person*.
Toshiie: He reminds me of myself back then. That's why, if he is in danger as you have said, I would like to support him, even a little.
Hanbei: Toshiie...
* the original phrase is 魂を磨いて which literally means 'polishing one's own soul'. It's not easy to explain what it means (and I'm not very clear on the meaning myself!) but I think it means something like to cleanse your spirit/soul. Something like getting rid of negative influences such as greed, lust, etc from your inner self.
Chapter 3: The net around Nobunaga
Event: The net around Nobunaga
As Hanbei had foretold, the forces opposing Nobunaga intensified.
Katsuie: The Miyoshi of Settsu and the Saika of Kii are rousing the people and instigating rebellions in the areas near the capital.
Katsuie: The Azai and the Asakura are also gathering people from the provinces and obstructing our movements.
Hideyoshi: In addition, the Takeda of Kai are showing signs of marching to the capital.
Hideyoshi: Lord Nobunaga, this sudden turn of events must have been planned by someone...
Mitsuhide: Lord Nobunaga, we cannot reject the possibility that Lord Yoshiaki is involved.
Nobunaga: That's fine. I shall just dispose of all who attempt to stop the march of time.
Nobunaga: I shall destroy the Miyoshi and the Saika who are rebelling near the capital. ...These are my orders for the entire army. 'Eradicate all who are involved with the Miyoshi or the Saika.'
Nobunaga's harsh orders were relayed to the entire army.
Ranmaru: I have relayed Lord Nobunaga's orders. You should hurry to help with the preparations to depart.
Toshiie: Is he serious with those orders? Ranmaru! What do you think?! Doesn't it hurt you? We are fighting against the civilians!
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie, I have already told you this. The path Lord Nobunaga walks is the shortest one that will bring an end to these chaotic times. There is no room for sympathy.
Toshiie: ...I don't care about Lord Nobunaga. I'm asking you what you think about this! Don't run away from your own feelings!
Ranmaru: Again, I have told you this countless times. I will only obey Lord Nobunaga's orders. Well then, please excuse me.
Toshiie: Ranmaru...
Battle: Kizugawaguchi - Oda vs Mōri
Event: Demon King
Hanbei and Toshiie faced the cruel battlefield, standing stock still.
Toshiie: It's no good, Hanbei. I don't understand this at all. Was it necessary to go this far?
Hanbei: It seems that Lord Hideyoshi has his doubts too. Well, anyone would think the same way.
Hanbei: However, the kind Mitsuhide and the sorrowful Ranmaru do not reveal their emotions and just believe in Nobunaga. Or rather, they think that they are right for believing in Nobunaga.
Hanbei: You're probably the only one who can save the sorrowful Ranmaru, Toshiie. No matter how hard one tries to speak rationally to him, it won't get through.
Toshiie: I can save Ranmaru?
Hanbei: Well, pardon me for being rude but you're reckless, you make mistakes, you get confused, you get irritated looking at the state of things-
Toshiie: Hey! Ah, come to think of it, Ranmaru has told me the same thing...
Hanbei: However, you're open with your feelings when you talk to others. That's what everyone likes about you, and that includes Lord Hideyoshi and Ranmaru. And perhaps even Nobunaga...
Hanbei: It may already be impossible for Nobunaga and Mitsuhide... but please save Ranmaru, alright? Someone as passionate as you...
Toshiie: Are you feeling unwell? You look pale...
Hanbei: I wonder if Kanbei's pallor is contagious? Hey, looks like there's going to be another war meeting. Let's go, Toshiie!
The cruel battle at Kizugawaguchi resulted in the powerful daimyō in the land condemning Nobunaga as the Demon King and standing up against him. The net around Nobunaga tightened.
Soon, the Takeda of Kai marched to the capital. They defeated the Tokugawa and attacked the Oda. At the same time, the Azai-Asakura alliance were heading south.
The survivors of the Saika clan, who bore a grudge against Nobunaga, were also rebelling. The Oda were in their biggest predicament.
Battle: Anegawa - Oda vs Azai
Event: Consoling Oichi
After the Battle of Anegawa, the Takeda retreated to Kai. The Azai and the Asakura were destroyed by Nobunaga. Nagamasa died and having lost her husband, Oichi returned to the Oda clan.
Toshiie: Lady Oichi, I know that you must be in great pain right now but you should try to eat something.
Toshiie: Ah, I know! How about some rice balls? O-Matsu's rice balls are amazingly good! Her salted plum rice balls are delicious, I feel so happy just eating them...
Quietly listening to Toshiie's words, Oichi's eyes began to fill with tears.
Nō: That's cruel of you, Toshiie. To speak of such things to Ichi right now...
Toshiie: Ah, ahhhhhhh!! No, Lady Oichi, that wasn't what I... I'm sorry! I'm sorry!
Toshiie bowed his head repeatedly while apologising profusely.
Oichi: May I have some rice balls?
Oichi: O-Matsu's rice balls... I wish to try them after hearing your words.
Toshiie: Yes, sure! They'll be done right away so just wait a bit!
Nō: He's always so slow-witted. I wonder what he sees in him...
Oichi: Toshiie resembles Lord Nagamasa a little... He's honest with his feelings and kind towards those around him. Perhaps what my brother wants is that part of him...
Oichi: I'm sure you don't dislike him too. You came here because you were worried that he'll make a mess of things, didn't you?
Nō: No, that's wrong. I came because I was worried about my cute little sister-in-law.
Oichi: Let's just leave it at that.
Soon, the entrapped Nobunaga broke off the alliance with the Ashikaga. He set off to attack Ashikaga Yoshiaki, who had orchestrated the opposing coalition, and advanced his troops to Yamazaki.
Battle: Yamashiro-Tamba - Oda vs Ashikaga
Event: Formation
Nobunaga banished Ashikaga Yoshiaki from the capital and the Muromachi shogunate came to an end.
Having suppressed most of the surrounding areas, Nobunaga sent his generals to all corners of the land. He began to spread military rule throughout the land.
Nobunaga: Katsuie will take the Uesugi, Monkey will take the Mōri. Mitsuhide will suppress the remaining forces in Kinki.
Hanbei: What's wrong, Toshiie. You look so lifeless next to me.
Toshiie: Both Uncle and Hideyoshi are leading the troops. I'm the only one left behind...
Hanbei: Haha, looks like you fell off the path to glory...
Toshiie: Go on, why don't you. I'm gonna grit my teeth and chase after them, and one day I'll surpass both Hideyoshi and Uncle!
Hanbei: Good luck, Toshiie. If no one chases after those who are walking ahead, they'll think that they have no rivals...
Toshiie: Yeah! You too, work hard but don't push yourself too far. Alright, I should be going to Uncle's place. Send my regards to Hideyoshi!
Toshiie went to the front lines in aid of Katsuie.
Final Chapter: Beyond the Future
Event: Hanbei's death
Urgent news from Hideyoshi reached the frontlines where Toshiie was. Takenaka Hanbei was on the verge of death. Toshiie left his post and rushed to Hanbei's side.
Hanbei: Toshiie, shouldn't you be at the frontlines? Don't tell me you left the army without permission? You'll be in danger if they find out...
Toshiie: Idiot, you're the one whose life is in danger! It doesn't matter what happens to me. You should return to your province and rest, alright?
Hanbei: Toshiie, I am going to die soon but please save Ranmaru with that reckless yet passionate spirit of yours.
Hanbei: And also, I'm going to leave the task of creating a world with everyone can sleep happily to you. I'm sure Lord Hideyoshi and you are capable of achieving it...
Hanbei: ...With this, I have no worries left. Toshiie, hurry and return to the frontlines. You might really end up being punished for disobeying orders...
Toshiie: Hanbei? Hey, hang in there, Hanbei!
Silently, Hanbei ceased to breathe.
Toshiie: Hanbei, I will carry out your wishes!
Battle: Tedorigawa - Oda vs Uesugi
Event: Disperse*
*as in dispersing rumours, clearing away doubts
Toshiie: Ranmaru! Thanks to you, we managed to repel the Uesugi! Thanks!
Ranmaru: I only participated in the battle on Lord Nobunaga's orders.
Toshiie: Even so, I'm grateful to you. The battle was a huge success!
Ranmaru: Putting that aside, Lord Toshiie... there's a rumour going around that you left the army without permission and met with Lord Hanbei...
Toshiie: Huh? Well, that... Look, there's no way that strict uncle of mine is going to give me permission, right?
Ranmaru: You're too excitable, Lord Toshiie. I shall report to Lord Nobunaga.
Toshiie: R-Ranmaru, wait! Isn't it normal to want to see a friend who's on his deathbed?
Ranmaru: Which is why I shall tell him this. There is no evidence that Lord Toshiie left the army and the rumours are just that.
Toshiie: Ranmaru!
After the battle of Tedorigawa, Uesugi Kenshin died from illness. In order to expel the Uesugi forces from the Hokuriku region, the Oda army headed east again.
Event: Rumours of Nobunaga's assassination
Toshiie: Uncle, our next target is Ecchū. And after we take that, we'll reach the heart of the Uesugi stronghold, Echigo! We're gradually getting nearer to a land united under Lord Nobunaga's rule!
Katsuie: There is one thing that bothers me. Right now, our troops are scattered all over and the lord is short of hands.
Katsuie: There people out there aiming for the lord's life. We need to inform the higher-ups about this so that they will remain vigilant.
That night, at Toshiie's camp...
Messenger: I come from Lord Hanbei. He told me to pass this to you when the time comes.
Toshiie read the letter Hanbei had sent him.
Ta-da~ This is my final flash of brilliance. I predict that trouble will happen at Kyoto in the near future. It seems that the remnants of the Saika, the Mōri and the Chōsokabe are conspiring in secret.
Recently, Lord Hideyoshi and Katsuie have been departing for war. Everyone's so eager to go out and attack, aren't they? In my opinion, this is when we are most vulnerable.
Toshiie, if possible, please protect Ranmaru. Ah, I'm sorry but I don't care what happens to Nobunaga. Well then, I'm leaving everything to you!
Hanbei
Toshiie quietly read Hanbei's letter, and then went over to Katsuie's camp.
Toshiie: Uncle! Please allow me to leave the army! Hanbei has warned me that Lord Nobunaga might be in impending danger!
Katsuie: You have left the army without permission once. Now, you believe in the words of one who's no longer in the world and once again wants to leave the army?
Toshiie: If you want to punish me, you can do that once I've confirmed that Lord Nobunaga and the rest are fine! Please allow me to leave, Uncle!
Toshiie repeatedly begged Katsuie for permission to leave.
Katsuie: ...Get out of my sight. I alone am enough to take on the Uesugi who have lost Kenshin. Someone as useless as you should be punished by Lord Nobunaga himself.
Toshiie: Uncle...! Thank you!
Hanbei's prediction was spot-on. The survivors of the Saika clan guided those who opposed Nobunaga into rebelling near the capital. Nobunaga's besieged Azuchi Castle was facing a fierce assault.
Battle: Toshiie barges in - Oda vs Mōri
Cutscene:
Toshiie: You're going with Nobunaga to where Hideyoshi is, right?
Ranmaru: Yes, after we stop by at Honnōji.
Ranmaru: What are you doing?!
Toshiie: Listen! Don't ever take your life lightly!
Toshiie: If you're ever in trouble, don't hold back and ask Hideyoshi for help!
Ranmaru: I understand, I understand already so... please go of me!
Toshiie: Just like that, go ahead and get angry, laugh and cry.
Toshiie: That's what it means to be human!
Ranmaru: Lord Toshiie...
Ranmaru: Is this okay?
Ranmaru: If you don't return soon, Lord Katsuie will be angry.
-THE END-
I just want to say that I love all the Toshiie, Ranmaru and Hanbei interactions here, and how different they are.