pertwk Page 103
Page 103
After resting for a few days at Daitoku-ji Temple in Kyoto, Shinzaburo fully recovered. At the same time, he received an official notification from Miyoshi Yoshioki that arrangements had been made for the division of Tango.
Furthermore, this arrangement was theoretically approved by Ashikaga Yoshiteru.
The reason given for taking over Tango was that the legitimate heir, Chimatsumaru, was too young, the current ruler, Isshiki Yoshimichi, was unreliable, and the other local lords were all of ill intent. Therefore, it was the right thing to do to have the shogunate send someone to take over. In fact, given Miyoshi Nagayoshi's usual practices, since he had raised this banner, he wouldn't treat Chimatsumaru too poorly in the future and would certainly treat him with considerable respect.
The specific plan was for Kubo Yoshiaki to lead the troops from Wakasa Province and Kuwata County to attack the northern Kumano and Takeno Counties; and for Matsunaga Nagayori to lead the remaining troops from Tanba to attack the southern Kasa, Yosa, and Naka Counties.
That means Shinsaburo was allocated about 30%.
Considering that Matsunaga Nagayori had been fighting in southern Tango for two years and had a solid foundation, it wasn't really unfair.
It's a bit of a shame that it's not connected to Wakasa by land, but thankfully the waterways are quite convenient.
Regarding Ashikaga Yoshiteru's suggestion of a formal appointment, Miyoshi Yoshioki stated that it was too early and should not be forced. However, in the name of the Shogun and Kanrei, he granted the Kubo family the authority to command the "Kitakuta-shu," which meant that Kawakatsuie could be legally regarded as a subordinate.
Shinzaburo readily accepted and set off on his return journey.
He went to Yagi Castle and met Matsunaga Nagayori—perhaps now he should be called Naito Munekatsu—and presented a document stating that the exchange of territories could not be carried out due to Miyoshi Yoshioki's instructions.
Matsunaga Nagayori remained silent for a moment, showing no emotion, and then said, "Inatomi, Kobayashi, and Hata were previously assigned to the Kubo army as assistant commanders. Although there is no longer a position for you to be assigned assistant commanders, I hope they will still be retained."
Shinzaburo had no reason to refuse. Keeping these "dual-servant" retainers would help maintain the friendship that had begun to crack.
They continued their journey, arriving at Ōgum Castle, where they rested for two days and reunited with their families. Shingoro had already resigned from his post in Noguchi Township and, along with his father Kinbei and several dozen men, moved to Kuwata District, where he was ready to take over as castle lord at any time.
There was no need to worry too much about domestic affairs, but in order to maintain the fighting capacity of the troops, three people named Yamauchi Sakon, Shioji Naizen, and Taga Hikojuro were selected from the survivors of the Shingu Party to help manage military affairs.
In fact, most of the Shingu faction members are still looking forward to the "restoration of the Imperial Family," and only the three mentioned above who married and had children locally are willing to stay in Ogong Castle and settle down.
Meanwhile, Shinzaburo's wife and children were planning to move to Wakasa. They had packed several trucks full of household items and even bought a sturdy sedan chair.
Next, he went to Shima Castle, the residence of the Kawakatsu family, and had a good talk with Kawakatsu Tsuguji, who had been placed under Kubo's command. It was nothing more than making empty promises and trying to build rapport.
When he leisurely returned to Koseyama Castle, many locals were waiting at the gate to greet him, their respectful and submissive demeanor even greater than before.
It was the busy autumn harvest season, and many lower-ranking samurai needed to return to the fields. However, even in this small place, there were still several hundred samurai who had taken time off from their regular duties.
As everyone bowed and addressed him as "Lord Sado," Shinzaburo calmly pulled out his official career certificate and revealed it to the public, smiling as he said, "Do you all already know? During my trip to the capital, I was fortunate enough to gain the favor of Lord Kobo and the young master of the Miyoshi family, and was permitted to use the title 'Kami of Sado'."
The warriors bowed down again, vying to offer words of congratulations and flattery.
In an instant, flattery and praise flew side by side, and fawning smiles and obsequious laughter were everywhere.
After a lively exchange of pleasantries, Shinzaburo entered the "Sasaki Residence," reviewed two urgent documents, and for the first time in his life signed his name as "Sasaki Kubo Sado."
Even though they knew it was a flashy but empty title, they couldn't help but feel quite pleased.
The remaining official business can wait. We've been so busy that we've gotten sick; we should learn from that experience.
But at that moment, a servant reported that Itsuki had requested an audience with the governor of Suruga.
Shinzaburo hadn't expected this guy to be so enthusiastic, and after a slight hesitation, he ordered him to be invited in.
A moment later, Itsuki Masakatsu entered with a document in hand, bowing slightly and taking small, light steps. He lay down on the ground and presented it with both hands.
He reached out and took it, and saw that it was a report on the collection of annual tribute from seventeen villages near Koseyama Castle.
At the same time, Itsuki Masatsune, still kneeling, explained, “It is estimated that this year’s autumn harvest will total 4,250 koku. Of these, 1,416 koku were bestowed upon me by Lord Sado, for which I am deeply grateful. The remaining two-thirds will be prepared within 20 days.”
"Hmm..." Shinzaburo did not offer the other party any formalities, but instead took out a small piece of paper from his pocket. The paper read: "According to the name of the seventeenth village, the total amount of grain paid is about 4,300."
Two numbers paired together are almost equal.
"You've worked hard, please rise." Shinzaburo gave a barely perceptible smile and said indifferently, "Itsuki has done a very successful job with Suruga-no-kami, it seems the annual tribute from now on..."
“From now on, it will naturally be Lord Kubo Sado who collects them personally.” Itsumi Masatsune quickly answered, then slowly straightened up and said in a serious tone, “When you first came to Wakasa, your mind was on military affairs, so you entrusted me to collect them on your behalf. This is obviously not the usual practice.”
"Ah... Since Itsuki Suruga-no-kami says so, I will accept his advice." Shinzaburo said this casually in a nonchalant tone, without any change in his expression.
Masatsune Itsuki appeared hesitant and indecisive—mostly feigning it—before cautiously adding, "There are still some matters I hope to obtain Sado Kubo's permission for."
"Please speak freely." Shinzaburo remained expressionless, revealing no emotion whatsoever.
“Then I will speak boldly.” Itsuki Masatsune’s tone was much calmer than his expression: “My son, Torachiyo, is the second son in the family. He is twelve years old and will soon come of age. My nephew, Hiko Sanbei, is fifteen years old and quite clever. It would be best if they could serve under you.”
Shinzaburo was a little surprised.
Itsuki Masatsugu looks quite young, but I didn't expect his second son to be already twelve years old.
Thinking about it carefully, this person is actually thirty-six or thirty-seven years old, so it's quite normal for his second son to be coming of age.
In those days, since the eldest son needed to get involved in politics as early as possible in order to inherit the family business, he would not be taken hostage unless absolutely necessary. Sending the second son to serve in the government was a common way to express loyalty.
“Since he is the second son of Itsuki Suruga-no-kami, he must be a pillar of the state. Please send him over.” Shinzaburo smiled slightly, finally showing some goodwill on his face.
"In addition..." Itsuki Masatsugu paused for a moment, his eyes flickering slightly, and then said, "I have a younger sister who has been widowed for several years. She has long admired Lord Kubo Sado's demeanor and hopes to have the opportunity to serve by his side."
"I see. Itsuki Suruga-no-kami is really thoughtful." Shinzaburo's tone finally softened.
……
Itsuki Masakatsu's sudden change in attitude was unexpected, yet also reasonable.
His past experiences clearly show that the reason this person appears so ambitious is mainly because he has been struggling in a narrow-minded way, becoming like a frog in a well. Once he realizes the vastness of the outside world, he will be able to correctly assess himself.
He has never embezzled a single penny of the annual tribute, and is extremely respectful in other aspects. Perhaps we could try appointing him.
There is now an opportunity to further clarify the matter.
Two days later, Shinzaburo summoned Kawakatsu Tsuguji of Kuwata District, along with more than twenty important figures from Wakasa, to discuss military matters. He then displayed a document jointly signed by Ashikaga Yoshiteru and Miyoshi Yoshioki, indicating their intention to participate in the Tango campaign.
No one was too surprised.
However, some people are full of vigor and can't wait to strike; others feel that continuous battles are too tiring and hope to take a short rest.
There's still some ongoing debate on this.
But Shinzaburo spoke up, saying, "Today I would like to have a preliminary discussion about the rewards we will receive after acquiring the Kumano and Takeno districts."
Suddenly, everyone forgot about everything else and stared eagerly at the camera.
Then Shinzaburo unfolded the map and smiled, "Kumano and Takeno districts are quite far from Wakasa, so they may be difficult to control directly. Therefore, I plan to select one or two district governors to garrison them."
Upon hearing this, everyone's eyes lit up.
However, Shinzaburo's next words were: "Those who serve as district governors need to be transferred to the Kumano and Takeno districts. Otherwise, they probably won't do their best."
The light in many people's eyes has been extinguished again.
These days, even if their territory were to increase significantly, most samurai are unwilling to accept a transfer of fiefdom. This is because relocation means risk, and also because there might be hidden real estate in their old homeland.
That's why Shinzaburo deliberately asked, "Although we haven't acquired those two counties yet, is there anyone who wants to volunteer to become a county representative in advance?"
As soon as the words were spoken, the warriors looked at each other in silence.
Only Itsuki Masatsune, after a moment's thought, said without hesitation: "If we can successfully take Kumano and Takeno districts, I wish to accept a transfer of fiefdom and go to Tango to guard it!"
Next, Nasa Yamato smiled and said, "I am not as confident as Itsumi Suruga-no-kami, but I am ready to accept the transfer if Lord Kubo Sado has any needs."
Besides these two, another person Shinzaburo had his eye on was Katsuhisa Awaya. This guy lowered his head and remained silent, clearly unwilling to accept.
That's understandable; Katsuhisa Awaya was indeed an old-fashioned samurai with both good abilities and integrity.
Then, Nobumura Oyamada, who was promoted from a leader of refugees to the commander of the reserve force by Shinzaburo, said: "I am not entirely confident that I can serve as the county magistrate, but if there is a need for manpower to guard the border, I am willing to share the burden for Lord Kubo Sado."
Upon hearing this, Ichikawa Sadaharu, whose movements were still somewhat clumsy due to his recent injuries, immediately spoke up: "Thanks to Lord Kubo Sado's skillful command, we defeated Echizen Asakura and avenged the destruction of our family temple. Therefore, I will gladly accept whatever arrangements are made."
Hata, Nagai, and Hisamura, who were in the same situation, immediately echoed this sentiment.
Shinzaburo was satisfied with this.
Although most people are still resistant to the transfer of their fiefdoms, there are still some who have taken the initiative to apply.
Especially Yoshikatsu, his enlightenment is really quite good.
195. Balance must also be considered on the side.
Although there were not enough conditions to conduct a large-scale land survey at the moment, Shinzaburo still took advantage of the autumn harvest season to conduct a brief investigation into the land ownership and population situation in various places.
Ruoxia was a small country, estimated by later generations to have an area of only about 850 square kilometers, and was divided into only three counties: Dafan, Yuanfu, and Sanfang.
The westernmost point is under the command of Itsumi Masatsune, who, due to his timely defection, annexed some disputed lands in the surrounding area, estimated to be close to 10,000 koku. His subordinates are currently known as the "First Division Commander of Wakasa." Previously, this was merely an honorary title and did not represent priority. However, with Itsumi Masatsune's change of attitude, the designation can now take on a completely new meaning.
In addition, Kawakami Castle, which leads to Hero County in Tanba Province, was handed over to Kawakatsu Tsuguji, with an estimated value of no more than 500 koku.
A little to the east, the land was originally ruled by several powerful clans such as Muto, Terai, and Shirai, but now all their former masters have been driven out, and the land has been used to appease pirates. Therefore, they can only go to Echizen to seek assistance from the Asakura clan. A dozen or so small fishing villages that were originally under the direct control of Takeda were also given to Nasa Yamato-suke, totaling about 8,500 koku. This is the "Wakasa Fifth Division," which is responsible for naval operations. Because they also have income from ship tolls and protection fees, they have been developing steadily during this period, and currently have a maximum mobilization capacity of eighty ships and nine hundred sailors.
In contrast, neighboring Hongo, Aoi, and Ōo were quite fortunate, preserving their ancestral lands after "abandoning darkness and embracing light." However, only Hongo distinguished himself, receiving several additional rewards, and his territory grew to over three thousand koku. Aoi and Ōo, due to their mediocre performance, received only symbolic rewards, remaining at around two thousand koku. They formed the "Second Wakasa District."
The castle of Nada, which leads to Kuwata District in Tanba Province, had long been incorporated into the Kubo family and recorded as having a value of nine hundred koku.
Next is the prime land where several rivers converge near Koseyama Castle, roughly estimated to be worth over 10,000 koku. This area was formerly the direct property of the Takeda clan, and now, as the deputy governor, Shinzaburo can naturally also have a share. Those recruited from here are the "Wakasa Fourth Battalion," who can be considered part of Kubo's direct forces. Following the method used in Kuwata County, wealthy households can be developed into foot soldiers, and then further converted into lower-ranking samurai.
Further east lies a more complex mountainous region, dotted with several small, interlocking factions. Among them, Ichikawa, Hatata, Nagai, and Hisamura proved their worth in battles against the Asakura clan's Tsuruga branch, securing their livelihoods and even receiving new favors. They each possessed a fiefdom ranging from two to four thousand koku and were known as the "Third Rank of Wakasa."
A total of seven or eight so-called "noble families" who had chosen the wrong side were decimated in the various battles and went to Echizen to join the Asakura family. In response, Shinzaburo selected more than twenty meritorious men from Kuwata District to inherit their family lineage, each of whom currently held a mere hundred koku of official rank. Most of these men were stationed in the eastern mountainous region, forming the empty shell of the "Wakasa Seventh Division," with relatively few actual troops and in need of expansion.
The easternmost region, near Echizen Province, was also home to the last group of people to submit. Awaya Katsuhisa's territory had seven or eight thousand koku, Kumagai and Matsumiya each had three or four thousand koku, and there were also smaller forces such as Onishina, Kansho, and Ichinomiya, totaling about twenty thousand koku, which were organized into "Wakasa Sixth District".
Why are some squads large and others small? Because this kind of thing can't just consider military needs; politics also has to be taken into account.
In addition, at the southeastern junction leading to Omi, there is a Numata clan, which is estimated to have a strength of three thousand koku. They have always been loyal to the shogunate and are on good terms with the local people of Takashima District in Omi Province, so they are not under the control of the government.
Based on this calculation, Shinzaburo's subordinates estimated the total yield in Wakasa to be around 75,000 koku. This is quite close to later estimates, demonstrating that the ability to estimate yields improved after the experience in Kuwata County.
In the small province of Wakasa, there were originally more than twenty retainers with a strength exceeding 1,000 koku, while the Takeda clan, the guardians of the land, could only directly control those with a strength of just over 10,000 koku. No wonder the discipline had declined. Even though seven or eight clans had fallen during the wars of the last two years, there were still fifteen or sixteen remaining.
It is unlikely that the Shigao system will be fully implemented in the short term, but a rough military service account can be made using the estimated number of Zhixing (a unit of official duties). This can be considered the first step in promoting centralization.
Fortunately, there is Xiaobang Bay, a place with thriving commerce. Once this is sorted out, it should bring in a lot of revenue.
Overall, the Kubo family's situation in Wakasa seems good, but it's actually entirely based on Shinzaburo's prestige, and their institutional development is still far from adequate. Even so, they already surpass most of the surrounding powers.
After Itsuki Masakatsu set an example, others followed suit, all requesting that their younger brothers and second sons be sent to serve as close advisors.
Some people also wanted their beautiful daughters or younger sisters to become Kubo's concubines.
The former, of course, was always welcome, and all were accepted. Shinzaburo took in about thirty people at once, gave them a brief assessment, and hired them according to their abilities. Those skilled in clerical work were appointed as scribes, those who knew a little arithmetic were assigned to help with bookkeeping, those who were eloquent were in charge of reception work, and those who were observant and good at serving others were kept to serve, and so on. In times of war, these people would also have to serve as military clerks, envoys, and messengers.
But the latter... can't possibly be inclusive.
It's normal to take in a bunch of retainers at once, but it's not quite right to take in a bunch of concubines at once.
While marriage is undoubtedly one of the most important sources of cohesion, promoting marriage between Wakasa and Tanba is the right path. Even if a teapot can hold a lot of water, it can't fill many teacups.
To maintain the balance of factions, in addition to Itsumi Masatsune's younger sister, who had been widowed for two years, they also chose Matsumiya Uma's daughter and Nagai Gaiki's older sister.
Just then, Lady Adou, accompanied by her family and servants and carrying a large amount of luggage, leisurely arrived in Wakasa from Ōyū Castle.
After a night of tender intimacy, Shinzaburo opened his eyes in the morning and said frankly, "In order to stabilize the situation in Wakasa, I plan to take three concubines."
Adou was drawing circles on his chest when he suddenly stopped, but quickly resumed with even greater force. At the same time, he remained calm and asked the three women about their family backgrounds and basic information.
After a moment's thought, Adou suggested, "We shouldn't favor one over the other. We can choose a suitable woman from the families that have recently made contributions in Sangtian County and bring her in as well."
Shinzaburo felt that his wife had considered everything thoroughly and immediately agreed.
……
A dozen days later, a small, informal banquet was held at the Ninomaru of Koseyama Castle, where the four concubines were brought over.
In addition to the original three, a girl from Kumada-shu in Kuwata-gun was added.
At the table, the Wakasa samurai were clearly excited and happy, and their words and actions were very relaxed.
During the Warring States period, social order was in disarray, and the etiquette and laws of the warrior class had not yet been truly established. Therefore, there were certain rules for marrying a wife, but taking a concubine was a casual affair, and there was no need to hold a ceremony.
Getting relatives and friends to gather for a meal is considered a sign of importance.
After the guests left at night, Shinzaburo met his four newly arrived concubines, waved for the maids and servants who had accompanied him to receive their rewards, and instructed the concubines to greet Lady Adou.
He poured himself a glass of fine wine and drank it slowly.
Among the four, there was a widow in her twenties who was relatively calm. There was also a young woman in her prime who was hesitant and timid.
But how can one disobey the master's orders?
Having experienced numerous battles, Shinzaburo had unconsciously developed an air of absolute authority, where his commands were as firm as mountains and his words carried unwavering power. Even a casual command, delivered with a gesture, exuded a commanding presence. His newly arrived concubines, of course, dared not disobey him in the slightest.
The four of them dawdled as they arrived at the "Oku-no-ma" (inner room) where the eldest wife lived. Before they could even ask to see her, a petite and exquisite woman with arched eyebrows and wide-open phoenix eyes walked out, holding a short sword and exuding a murderous aura.
All four were terrified. The two most timid ones immediately knelt down in the corridor, trembling and afraid to raise their heads.
The two remaining, slightly bolder ones, exchanged a glance and also bowed in respect.
The petite woman spoke, her voice soft and sweet, yet carrying a chilling aura: "My name is Qianhe, and like you all, I am a concubine of the master. I had prepared gifts for everyone, but the lady is unwell and it is inconvenient for her to see too many people at once. Please follow me and enter one by one."
Shinzaburo drank half a cup of wine in the courtyard, then strolled back inside. Upon seeing the scene before him, he was greatly surprised.