denial of the the middle ages

Mid-16th century，there was a lords in Owari named "Oda Nobunaga".
(Western part of the current Aichi.)
At this time，Japan had 100-year civil war continued.
He allied with Tokugawa Ieyasu of Mikawa.
(Eastern part of the current Aichi.)

Then his Japan unified project was begun.


”Denial of the the Middle Ages.”
This project had also its meaning.

The time the civil war began，authority of the Middle Ages was becoming meaningless gradually.
And its late stage he appeared.


Separation of soldiers and peasants.
Establishment of the professional soldier.

Elimination of tariffs pointless and the guild from own territory.
Road at the time was full by the customs of lords.
In other words,Japan had been too subdivided.
There was no intention to them as Japan nation.

Separation of politics and religion.
Tendai sect of Buddhism it was one representative sect of this era.
People still believed the punishment of Heaven.
They had position like extraterritoriality.

　
"Nobunaga is gonna take away the rights of us."
They did interference to Nobunaga's project.



"The punishment of Heaven.
There is nothing like that."

He attacked to this head temple.
And it had been thoroughly destroyed.


Incidentally my grandfather was a monk of this sect.

Further incidentally，Akira Kurosawa's film Kagemusha.
Enemy role of this film main character.
He is Oda Nobunaga.


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
While he destroyed the old forces，took control of the central part of the Japan.
As result，large lords of since old times were became not here.

Of course his project had reckless in the common sense of that time
He might have been similar to the Caesar.
He was killed by a rebellion of the vassal.
　
This vassal named Akechi Mitsuhide.
He was destroyed by Toyotomi Hideyoshi of Nobunaga vassal.
(His name was Hashiba Hideyoshi at that time)

Result of the power struggle，he became heir to Nobunaga.
He was not adopted annihilation policy unlike Nobunaga.


Hideyoshi had already established a friendly relationship with Mouri.
Mouri is Choshu of later.
(Mouri is person's name,Choshu is place name.)
They were large lord of western of main island at that time.

Many lords of west japan.
They remained exist by this policy.



・・・・・・・・・


Hojo clan was the ruler of the Kanto Plain at that time.
They ignored the recommendation of Hideyoshi surrender.
　
Hideyoshi decided to subdue Hojo clan as the completion of the unification of Japan.
　

”Be cooperate to subdue Hojo.”
He gave this instructions to lords of Ōu.
Of course this was a recommendation of surrender to them.
　
As result，Hojo clan was perish and Japan was unified.
Hojo territory was given to Ieyasu.

　
　

"this is mere armchair theory."

Omura only said so.

"The Shogitai hold  the main enemy troops to Edo city."
Their strategy had been planed by this assumption.
But this assumption had completely disappeared by the battle of the half-day.
　
Shogitai side intentions was for the strengthening of their influence.
Ōu side intentions was for enhance the morale and unity of allies.
Consequently they did hype about ability of the Shogitai.

"In fact, Edo city is under their control.
West military are weak."
　
Their wishful thinking.
When it inflated to the maximum，the Shogitai were mopping up in half a day by the new government troops.

Influence of pro-Tokugawa faction was still strong in the Kanto region.
Of course its influence was also included in their strategy.

"But this result will a significant impact on public feeling in the Kanto region."
At least it was clear.

More than anything，new government troops gained freedom of maneuver by it.
　
"More than anything，they have been delayed one move in the first place."
　
　
・・・・・・・・・　


By the way ministers of Tokugawa regime was responsible by Tokugawa vassal.

Tokugawa had the territory to throughout Japan for their vassal in addition to its themselves territory.
When they appointed ministers of Tokugawa，they were given a territory to near the Edo city.
After the end of his term，they moved to a different territory.
In other words，this is Transfer.

Reassignment of theirs territory was often by theirs work content.　
Territory of Tokugawa ministers was chosen from strategic points in the traffic of near the Edo city.
Shirakawa was one of them.　

Lord of Shirakawa who was ministers of Tokugawa.
A few years ago,he got to the dismissal.
Therefore he was transferred from Shirakawa.

But after this，era had been deepening the degree of confusion.
Political center of Japan had moved to Kyoto already.

Probably there was no such spare time to Tokugawa.
New lord of Shirakawa was not determined until this time.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・
　

And Restoration had happen.　
Local agency of new government came to Ōu region.

”You guys must subdue Aizu and Shonai.”
Suddenly they received this instruction.
　
Eventually, they succumbed to this instruction.
But there were no will to war in each other.

local agency of new government  had to right of administration of the Shirakawa castle at that time.
But their own troops was small.
And there were not lords who defend the Shirakawa castle for them.
Therefore Shirakawa Castle had become practically vacant.　

Eventually the Shirakawa Castle had been occupied by Aizu .
But defense of this castle by Aizu only.
It was impossible as their military force.　

Ōu alliance was established.　
However，before they set a firm alliance strategy,counterattack of the new government troops has been started.

Ōu region

"Subdue the Aizu and the Shonai as enemy of Imperial court.　
We have received its order suddenly from local agency of western military.
(They called new government troops "western military")
　
However，we do not think they are enemy of Imperial court.
Please reconsider the instruction.
We had so plead to them.
But it was ignored.

It is not necessary for us  hear the opinions of you guys.
This is the command of the Emperor.　

Eventually，we were forced to attack the Aizu and the Shonai.

During the same,we learned a surprising fact.
　
Our enemy are not only the Aizu and the Shonai but also all lords of Ōu region.
Eventually we need to subdue them all.

Executive of local agency had say so in our obtained confidential documents.
　
If we have subdue the Aizu and the Shonai.
If we have not subdue the Aizu and the Shonai.
In either case,the result is the same.
　
Above all，we have no malice to the Aizu and the Shonai.
There is no reason to subdue them to ourselves in every situation.

Their tyranny that is borrowed the authority of the emperor.
We want protest against it.
Therefore we are united and took such this actions.
We never unintended to rebel against Imperial Court.

After they control the upper half of the ”Y”.
While showing a willingness to the lower half as it is，they was planning to petition like that to the Imperial Court.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・

　
"After all，what is Restoration?
The new government is a puppet government of Satsuma and Choshu.　

Probably those who think so are many at western Japan also.
Of course, they have dissatisfaction.
We should make a collaborator in western Japan and Imperial court."
They thought so.

”Satsuma and Choshu are destroyer of public order.
They look down even aristocracy.

If we continue this situation，Japan's national polity would be destroyed surely.
We will subdue them as soon as possible and should recover the correct world."
At the same time they was planning to do this secret approach.


・・・・・・・・・


Echigo exists on extension of "\".　
(However，must cross a mountain of 1000 m level.)

Niigata is social center in Echigo.
However，its located is a little toward to the north from Echigo's center.
(About 80 km west-northwest of Aizu downstream.)

It was still not opening，Niigata had been specified in the port of trade with foreign countries by Tokugawa.
Therefore Niigata port had been developed with modern facilities.

Tokugawa had banned trade with foreign countries except in their's designated ports.

"We will subdue them as soon as possible and should recover the correct world."
Because this was the just cause of them，they needed to comply with the laws of Tokugawa.

They were ensured this port by alliance.
They tried to trade with foreign countries at here.
Of course first priority was to obtain weapons.

Y

"Troops which are centered on Sendai clan.
At first，they advance to Shirakawa.
And ensure Shirakawa Castle."

"In response to it、Aizu troops advance to Nikko.”
Many soldiers who escaped from Edo city.
They are gathered in Nikko.
Aizu to rally them.
Then they advance to Utsunomiya in cooperation with the troops of Shirakawa.　
Make a bridgehead in there."

"At the same time，they extend their forces to Kozuke of the northern area of the Kanto Plain."
　
The new government knew the details of counteroffensive strategy by interrogation and seized letter.

・・・・・・・・・


Shirakawa is located 110 km south-southwest of Sendai and 40 km southeast of Aizu.
Nikko is located in the mountains of 70 km south of Aizu.
Utsunomiya is 20 km southeast of Nikko and 60 km south of Shirakawa.


This is just my casual idea, not a scientific basis.
As an image.
　
Kanto Plain has a distorted shape ”Y”.
(The east "/"is twice as long than the west "\".)　
　
Shirakawa is present in top of "/".
Utsunomiya is present in the middle of "/".
Nikko is present in the middle of the mountains of "V".　
Kozuke is area of "\".　
Of course Edo city was present in the bottom of "|".　
　
There was Sendai on extension of "/".　

The river is also flowing to Sendai along this extension line.
(A little northwest of Shirakawa is its headwaters.)
This river had been developed already as a transportation route to considerably inland.

If I write overstate，Shirakawa is the center of ”ｘ”.
Distance of the mountains is the most narrow at Shirakawa.
Elongated corridor is extends from there to Sendai.
　
Main artery at that time had been through here.


・・・・・・・・・


"North from Shirakawa is Emishi country."
According to the lore，from around 5 century there was a barrier of Imperial court here.
Of course，that barrier did not already exist at this time.

”North from Shirakawa is different world.”
However,such poetic sentiment had been left in this era as well.

"Shirakawa is the entrance of Ōu."
Therefore this feeling was shared not only there people.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・
　　

There was a mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu on Nikko.
So Nikko was a holy place of the Tokugawa.
Also Nikko was the key point of the mountain road.　
Road was crossed here.

no way

"Everyone do not know the whereabouts of Imperial prince?"

"Yes."
Yamaoka answered to Katsu.
　
"Main gate of Kan'eiji had been burning by shelling.
Imperial prince took refuge in the Negishi direction at this time.
　
House of village headman of Kamiogu.（5 km north of Kan'eiji）
We have know his trace until there.

But soldiers who escaped the Kan'eiji came together there one after another.
Of course mopping-up operation had begin already.

If this situation continues Imperial prince will be in danger.
Probably Imperial prince entourage thought so.
　
Imperial prince stay tonight in this house.
After saying so，Imperial prince was gone from there."
Yamaoka explained.　　
　
"I do not think the government does harm to Imperial prince.　
We have to find the whereabouts of him urgently.　
Everyone do not know his whereabouts.
It is very dangerous conversely in this situation."
　
"I think so too."

"By the way,the monk in question？"

"Of course he also missing now.
However，he seems not together with the Imperial prince."

　
・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"Well，dawn soon?
I must go to the headquarters of the government troops for their victory celebration.

The Shogitai were squatted the Kan'eiji of the family temple of Tokugawa.
The Shogitai were significantly worsen the security of Edo city.
Above all，Imperial prince had been confinement at there by them.

The government has eliminate them.
We should have to say thank you as Tokugawa clan."

"Tokugawa had nothing to do at all.
Do you say so？"
　
"Of course.
Because it is a fact."
Katsu replied.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"By the way，do you know Echigo was joined to the alliance of Ōu?"
Katus asked Yamaoka.　

"Yes."
　
Echigo was the Sea of ​​Japan side of north of Edo. (currently Niigata)
There were many lords in Echigo.
Most of them were joined to the alliance of Ōu.
As result,they had been realized large alliance as the east Japan.

"It seems that they are planning a massive counteroffensive strategy.
Rumor has it，there was a request to participate it to Enomoto."

"Will he accept it?"

"No way.
Now is a good time to wake up from the dream."


・・・・・・・・・

　
Countries of inside Japan. （for example Echigo，Satsuma，Tosa)
It was established around the 8th century.　
Tokugawa did not want a large lord near Edo city as a matter of security of Tokugawa.
(Extent of Echigo that was a vast at inside Japan.)

little by little

"Enemy in the north side of Kan'eiji.
They has been steadily enhance."
When this report was delivered to Saigo，His side enemy had retreat little by little conversely.
　
"We soon reach the main gate of Kan'eiji."
When Saigo had its prospect，he ordered stop of advance of his troops.
　
"For 15 minutes，troop of Kaga mansion will shelling to the main gate of Kan'eiji as of noon.
It is signal of the total attack.
After that We will rushed into gate inside.

Samurai that has remained in Kan'eiji now.
They are true loyal subjects of Tokugawa and they are true brave man.
We have found a good fight in them."
Saigo said so.　
　　
・・・・・・・・・
　

Saga clan in Kyushu.
They had a duty to security of Nagasaki bay under Tokugawa regime.

Incidents that feel the threat of foreign from sea.
Its had been occurred one after another in this era.
And national isolation was still national policy.　　

"We are not able to handle the situation by the power of our technology."
They were keenly aware of the need for innovation.
Above all，lord of them was keenly aware than anyone else.


They therefore tried industrial modernization by themselves.
As result，they had enable the production of modern weapons to some extent at this point.
They reached to have a powerful military force.


But they were such a position of neutrality by the intention of their lord until this time.　
Because Saga clan had been disciplined by lord than others.
(Most lords did not want to change rapidly.
Most radical lord might have been Yoshinobu.)

Of course after the Restoration there were no reason new government should leave alone their military forces.
Saga clan had been urged to participate in the new government.

"Please allow me ask to you.
Today is not a time for maintain a neutral already.
We should participate in the new government.”
Exchanges like Sakamoto and Kido between vassals had begun already.
They also insisted so.　

There was a cannon modeled after Armstrong Cannon in their weapons.　
Its destructive power is immense.
It had been said like that at that time.
　
"Please provide its cannon to the new government troops."
They accepted it finally.　
　

・・・・・・・・・

　
Shinobazu Pond is remnants of the cove.
Because it is said so,its other side is the tableland as well.
　
Kaga mansion was there at that time.　
(The current University of Tokyo）　
They built a Casemates du here.
And had deployed its cannon.
　
"When signs of their defeat became clear，you guys will the shelling towards the south of Kan'eiji."
This troop had received this instruction.

Armstrong Gun 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armstrong_Gun

launch an attack

Kan'eiji was in the southeast end of the tableland.
So its east side was cliff.
And its west side was a pond called Shinobazu Ike.
This pond had become a place of the moat of Kan'eiji.
(According to one theory，this pond seems vestige of the cove.)

The new government troops deployed the main troops on the south side of Kan'eiji.

"Time has come.
Launch an attack."
　
　
・・・・・・・・・

　
Kan'eiji monks had gathered to place of Imperial prince.

"Do you look like what is the current situation?"
Imperial prince asked monk of their substantially leader.
He did not answer.

"As long as Imperial prince is exist in Kan'eiji, enemy can not attack absolutely.
You said so.
But now their attack began.
Ravages of war may extend to Imperial prince.
What do you think about it?"
Other monk had demanded so to him.

"Yes.
Imperial prince is here.
Nevertheless they are attacking Kan'eiji.
I am convinced this is evidence they are traitors."

"It’s not on our agenda for now.
In fact they are attacking Kan'eiji.
All your prediction was wide of the mark.
Ravages of war may extend to Imperial prince."

"The enemy can not advance for struggle of our troops.
They has just shooting from behind the obstacle.
Such a report is coming.
I think they has been atrophying by the majesty of Imperial prince.
Our defeat is not decided yet."

"We confirmed the enemy troops in the direction of Dango zaka."
Came its report at that time.
(Northwest of Kan'eiji.)
　
"At this rate，we may has completely surrounded."
Someone muttered.　

　
・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"There is no doubt，front-line soldiers has move to the other.
Does they has lack of soldiers that far?
Or do we have been underestimate from them?"
　
"It would be both."
Saigo laughed.
　
Negishi of northeast of Kan'eiji.
　
"Line connecting Dango zaka and Negishi.　
Enemy troop came there."
This report had come already to Saigo.
　
"Want to run away is began.
Revised chance of evaluation of you guys is yet to come.
You tell to everyone,not to hurry."　

世情

"I'm glad you are safe.
Saigo also had been worried about you."
In the form of taking over escort，Yamaoka had left from Kan'eiji with messenger.
He was the commissioned officer who told with Yamaoka.

"Do Saigo had came to the forefront?"

"Yes,he will lead the mission at the forefront."


・・・・・・・・・


When they arrived at forefront of new government troops,a lot of tatami had been gathered.

"We recommend the dissolution to you guys.
Please you guys leave from Kan'eiji within two hours.
Two hours later，we will launch an attack.
I told them certainly."
He reported to saigo.
　
"We have gathered tatami from the house around here.
Because tatami is a valid as defense wall.

Everyone had been evacuated already.
So we were taken out tatami without permission.
After this I must apologize to them.
This is a lot of trouble."
Saigo said laughing to Yamaoka.
　
"Do not overdo it.　
I was told so from Omura.

Minimize the damage of the government troops.
This is also a key element of this operation.

Satsuma does not fear death.
I said so to omura.

This battle will affect the future strategy.
We must indicate the overwhelming superiority of the government forces.
　
They won somehow with make a great sacrifice.　
We should not have the impression that.
　
So do not overdo it.
Above all，there is no necessity to we do overdo in the current situation.
I had been described so from him."
　
"In other words・・・．"
　
"Yes，they will been destruction thoroughly for our future strategy."
Saigo said.
　

・・・・・・・・・
　

"However，just maybe their sacrifice can be suppressed less."　
Saigo continued.

”Why?”

"Recovery of the treasures of the Tokugawa from Kan'eiji.
After this rumor flow，deserters from Kan'eiji seems to have continued.

Most of them have fled to the north.
Even if deserters has caught to siege of our troops.
If they do not have a weapon we have wink at it.
Because  battle is not began yet and they are citizens of Edo city.

Therefore,persons who remain now in the Kan'eiji.
All of them are bigot.
There is no reason to listen to your advice."
Saigo laughed.

"In any era，the man who left holding the bag is them."
And he muttered.


・・・・・・・・・


Classical literature of the Shinsengumi Research named "Shinsengumi Shimatsuki".
Its author,Shimozawa Kan.
His grandfather was in Kan'eiji at this time.

  

Tatami 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tatami

time has come

"Edo city become the battlefield.
I'm sure you guys really does not want to it.

Now，the Imperial Court is planning to conquer Aizu and Shonai.　
Lords of the Ōu are hostile to it.
After this throughout of the Ōu become a battlefield.
There is its high possibility.
Above all，dispute at Ōu has already begun.
　
Home town become the battlefield.
I'm sure everyone really does not want to it.
　
If Edo city is able to avoid war，it can be a model for peaceful resolution.
If Edo city become a battlefield conversely，it will trigger an all-out war.

Here is a branch point.
You guys should avoid war.
　
Safety of you guys of after this.
Tokugawa defend it at the risk of life and limb.

Please avoid war."　
　
"Anyway I will talk your opinion to the upper part."
After contemplation for a while、officer replied so.　
　
"Thank you.
Please hurry up."
　

・・・・・・・・・
　
　
After a while，he came back expressionless.　
　
"Everyone!　
Convey to you guys the words of the Imperial prince.
　
Satsuma and Choshu had oppress imperial court for their ambition until now.　
So Japan had been subjugate by them.
　
But time has come！　
　
Signal fire of Anti Satsuma and Choshu were raised in throughout of Japan.　
Their fate was end already.
　
Kan'eiji is Chihaya Castle of modern times.
By the struggle of you guys，we will can destroy definitely Satsuma and Choshu.　
I hope do your best!"
He shouted to his subordinates.　
　　
"Did you met Imperial prince?"　
Yamaoka drew closer to him.

"No.
But our policy has determined.
We must follow it."

"It is ridiculous.　
You guys death is wasted.
You are understand it clearly.　
Nevertheless，why must fight？
Why must die?
You guys even just should run away from here."　　　
　
Are you a coward？
When I told your opinion to the upper part,I had been said like that from them.
I am samurai.
We are samurai.
We can not afford to run away.
　
Thanks to your favor.
You should go hurry from here.
Let escort you to the main gate by my subordinates."
　
　　
・・・・・・・・・
　
　
”Messenger of the enemy came.”　
Yamaoka heard that shout at that time.　
　

Chihaya Castle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chihaya_Castle

raison d'etre

"Attack against the Shogitai at early hours of tomorrow.
It was formally decided.
Recovery of the treasures of Tokugawa clan from Kan'eiji.
We have proposed it already to Tokugawa.

Thank you for your efforts so far."
Saigo did visit Yamaoka,and he said so.
 　
　
・・・・・・・・・
　

"Probably their number has been reached about three thousand people.
Three thousand people must die for few fool persons."
That night，Yamaoka could not sleep.
　
"I must go to Kan'eiji again."
He made up his mind at midnight.
　
When he approached Kan'eiji，new government troops had been moving forward to the starting combat point already.
Of course they was stopped him.
Its troops was Satsuma.
　
"I'm getting the permission of Saigo."　
He revealed his identity and lied a little.
　
"I see.
However，one hour later we run a last recommendation of retreat.
There is no change in the time schedule.
Operation will be executed as planned.　
Are you okay？"
Officer said so while looking at the pocket watch.
　
"Of course.
Thank you."　
He hurried to Kan'eiji.　


・・・・・・・・・
　

When Yamaoka arrived，Kan'eiji was abuzz.　
He found the commanding officer of Shogitsi of his acquaintance.

"Attack of Imperial court troops begins soon.
You guys should just now be dissolved."
He said so.
　
"We know it.
We had confirmed the deployment of enemy troops.
Instructions of combat preparation is came out already."
　
"Do you really think can win?"
　
”We are here to win.”
He replied.　
　
"You are lying.　
You guys already know that.　
It is impossible.
You guys absolutely become defeated.

Because armed are too different.
If you guys fight, just die in vain."　
Yamaoka kept talking.
　　
"Please thinking about it.
Since Kaesong bloodless of the Chiyoda Castle，Edo security had deteriorated considerably.
But Imperial court was not able to correspond to it.
　
Was guarding the security of Edo city is you guys.　
　
And there were rude behavior to Edo citizens in some of the soldiers of the Imperial court.
But now，they are disciplined behavior.
It is because you guys exist.　　
　
So，the presence of the Shogitai was significant.

However，you guys raison d'etre as the Shogitai.
It was over.　
After this You guys must exist as a legitimate counterpart against regime.
In order to do so，you guys should not to perish.　
　
You guys should continue to exist.
Necessary action for it.
It is not a war absolutely."

condition

"We thank you.
If we can avoid fighting，it is best."
Saigo replied so to Yamaoka.


Before the new government troops arrival to Edo city.
Yamaoka came to see Katsu.
He was very famous as a swordsman.

"Katsu are trying to sell Edo to the enemy."
There was this rumor already.

"He may have come to kill you.
Please take care."
Katsu had received advice like that from comrade.
But Yamaoka was almost the same opinion with Katsu.
They had hit it off.

”Would you help me to negotiate with Saigo?”
Katsu asked Yamaoka.
He readily agreed.

Until the day of the meeting of Saigo and Katsu,person who did negotiate with Saigo was Yamaoka.
As result，he was also hit it off with Saigo.

Later Yamaoka was become the chamberlain of the Emperor by the recommendation of Saigo.


・・・・・・・・・
　

Yamaoka went to Kan'eiji.
And he met monk of their substantially leader.　

”Ieyasu of first king ended the civil strife of 100 years.
And he made a peaceful society of 250 years.

Its all was for the people of Japan.
Was not for the tokugawa clan.
Yoshinobu's decision of this time.
This is also respect its spirit.　
　
But now，you are about to trample its spirit."
Yamaoka said so.

”You say funny thing.
Top of Kan'eiji was Imperial prince from first.　
Why?　

If Kyoto fell in the hands of rebellious subject.
Imperial prince of Kan'eiji will become the top of the Imperial court.
And he regains justice.
Tokugawa had this spirit from first.

Now is exactly that situation.
So，person who trample Tokugawa spirit is you."
He replied.

"I think pray for peace of the people is the work of a monk.
But you distort the spirit of Tokugawa and trying to lead people to war.

Skirmish had occured frequent already.
Deaths due to it already exists.

I can not stand aside it.

Retreat from Kan'eiji.
We formally request so to you as Tokugawa clan.
If this is the case，do you accept it?"
Yamaoka continued.

"Our top is Imperial prince.
Tokugawa is mere vassal of the imperial court.
We does not depend on the opinions of the vassal."
　
"I understand.
You guys are acting for the Imperial prince only.
Tokugawa is irrelevant.
We think so.
　
Kan'eiji is the family temple of the Tokugawa.
You guys stick to the Kan'eiji.
I think it is selfish too much."
　
"If you say up there,we may want retreat from Kan'eiji."
He said with a laugh.
　
"But there is a condition.
We do not have the money for retreat .
Please the imperial court gives 20,000 ryo to us."
(about $ 20 million?)　

Of course the new government had rejected it.

completed

"How was the negotiation?"

"The problem of a Imperial prince
It is no progress."

"Leave from Kan'eiji of Imperial prince."
The new government had requested it.

(He called "Ho-shin'no".
About meaning "Ho-shin'no" is "Imperial prince on Buddhism".)

Once,his homecoming to Kyoto had decided.
But it was canceled suddenly.
After this，the new government became can not contact with him.

　
・・・・・・・・・　
　
　　
"Problem of security of Edo city.
This was able to agree substantially."
　
The eastern half of the Edo city.
It was under the control of the Shogitai.
　
It was virtually vigilantes.
Because they were Edo citizens.
　
"We want to deploy there the troops of the new government for security.
Because protect  people is the obligation of the government.
Accordingly,we want to avoid unnecessary conflict."
The new government proposed so to the Shogitai.
　
It took a considerable distance from Kan'eiji.
Also，north side of Kan'eiji was free.
Therefore contact network with ally had been secured.
　
”The most important thing for us，it is to ensure the Kan'eiji as a base for counterattack.
(Including ensure of Imperial prince)
　
Counterattack will start soon.
Avoid useless collision until then，it would be good."
They also thought so.


・・・・・・・・・


"Era of modern.
Kan'eiji can become a Mount Liang.
But it can not become a modern fortress.”
Omura murmured.　

"Deployment of troops has completed.
I think negotiations with them had enough.
So，I think we must execution of the operation as soon as possible."
He said to Saigo.
　
"I see."　
Saigo replied.　
　
　
・・・・・・・・・



"They hasn't ability to respond to modern warfare.
It's natural.

They are samurai. 　
But until recently they had ordinary human life.
In the same way as my ancestors，I will also spend a normal life.
They are people who had thought so until now.

I want to protect the hometown.
Most of them are the people who gather by only that thoughts.

They can't respond to modern warfare.
It's natural.

I want to persuade them to disband.
Please allow negotiations with them."

Shortly before this，person who say so to Saigo was appears.
He was tokugawa vassals named ”Yamaoka Tesshu”.


 Mount_Liang
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Liang

defeatist

"Government will attack surely against Kan'eiji."　
The man who made a prediction like this.
It was Katsu of former Tokugawa Navy Admiral
And another person was present.

It was Shibusawa Eiichiro of leader of the Shogitai.
He was a confidant of Yoshinobu.

"Government of country does not allow the existence of such."
They knew it.


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"Enemy will attack surely against Kan'eiji.
Therefore，Edo city become battle field.
But Edo city is not suitable to protracted struggle.
Nikko is stronghold land and is suitable to it.
We should move to Nikko.
Let's fight the enemy there!"
Shibusawa proposed so.　
　
Nikko is 100 km north of Edo.
There was the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu of first king.
　
But there was violent opposition from within executives of the Shogitai.

"In order to return the favor to Tokugawa，we should fight in here."
They said.
　
"Edo city is caught up in the war.
Yoshinobu did not want it.
So he made a bloodless Kaesong.　
The Shogitai were formed in order to protect him in the first place.　
We should respect the will of him.
　
For example，Tokugawa navy at the day of kaesong bloodless.
They were able to do a naval bombardment against enemy troops.
As result，They would have been able to give a heavy blow to enemy.
It will might still be possible.
　
But they never run it.　
Because they respect the will of Yoshinobu as vassals."
Shibusawa insisted to them.

"Above all，members of the Shogitai.
Edo city is their home town.
I believe they don't want it."


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"Shibusawa is defeatist.
Enemy has been just surrounding us from a distance.
They does not have the ability and courage to attack us in the first place.　
　
Yoshinobu may have tricked by him like Young emperor of Kyoto.
And he is trying to trick us now.
He is a snake in our's bosom..
We should kill him."
Eventually executives of the Shogitai had began to try to kill Shibusawa.

Shibusawa had left the Shogitai.
After this，He had fought against the new government until the end.

fetters

Because restoration was nominal of this revolution.
At first,the traditional officials name of the Imperial court were used to officials name of the new government.

"This government positions must hereditary by us.
Because our pedigree is precious.

Okubo of Satsuma,Goto of Tosa.
They behave as though they owned the place.
But they are persons of the humble beginnings.

Okubo top minister.

Do we call him like that?
Please stop joking."
There were many such opinion inside aristocracy.

"Do you say forever such a thing？
Yes，we must call him like that.
Because he deserve to be called so."

Young aristocracy named Saionji Kinmochi.
He insisted so.
Many young aristocracy had agreed to it.
　
"Kyoto has too many fetters for us.
In order to change the era，we need to go to the new location."
This opinion came out from among them.　
　

・・・・・・・・・


Accordingly，the presence of the Shogitai had become a problem.　


"We must eliminate them from Edo city as soon as possible.
But without producing damage to Edo city."　
Omura came to Edo city as a planner this strategy.

　
　
・・・・・・・・・　
　
　
"Edo city is the capital of Japan truly.
Fire prevention measures of city have been taken firmly."
Omura said.
　
As you know，traditional japanese house is a wooden.　
During this 250 years of Tokugawa，Edo city had the great fire many times.

Increase the width of the road.
Make a vast vacant lot at a regular interval.

As a result，Edo city had high conscious against fire protection.

"And Kan'eiji is located on top of a small hill in Ueno.

I think it will depend to some extent on the weather.　
But if can summarize the enemy to Kan'eiji.
Limit the damage to Edo city.
It is quite possible.

Kan'eiji is also presence of only branch castle of Chiyoda Castle at Edo city.
Strategic base which large army can be gathered.
Therefore it is only here except for the Chiyoda Castle.

Of course i think they also know it well.

And they are large number surely.
But most of them is old style samurai.

Modern soldiers of Tokugawa.
Most of them escaped already from Edo city.

So the Shogitai hasn't ability to respond to modern warfare.

If our troops surround at the organizational against them.
And we will summarize them to Kan'eij.
It is quite possible."
Omura continued.
　

・・・・・・・・・

　
”By the way，I have a favor to ask to you.
Officers of troops of participating in this operation.
At least，do government troops be able to provide a pocket watch for them?”
He added.

Pocket watch of made ​​in Japan was made.
It was a few decades later of this period .
　

relocation of the capital

”Joking aside,is it possible?”
Saigo asked.

”Yes.”
The man replied.
This man was Choshu samurai named ”Omura Masujiro”.

During this period，there was a change to the organization of the new government.
He came from Kyoto as operations staff.

When second Choshu conquest by Tokugawa.
The man who drafted the strategy of Choshu .
It was him.
As result Choshu had succession of victories against Tokugawa.


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
Kyoto city was the capital of Japan.
Because the Emperor was in there.
But Edo city was the de facto capital at that time.　　　

"Osaka city become the new capital of Japan."
At first，there was this concept inside the new government.　
　
”But Edo city remain uninjured.
Therefore capital functions remain uninjured."
　
For example modern dock in Yokosuka.
Yokohama had been developed as a trading city.　
Already from the days of Tokugawa，Edo city was trying change to the modern capital.
　
"We should be used it."
Such opinions had become strong inside the new government.


・・・・・・・・・


"If we have the capital to Edo，we are possible to continuously employ an officials of the Tokugawa.
And people will also come gathering to Edo city again.
Edo merchants will can take a breath by it.

Osaka is a city of merchants originally.
The formation process of Osaka city is different fundamentally to Edo.
Samurai was almost non-existent there.　
Even if we leave them alone,they will can overcome this crisis by themselves."
　
Saigo said so with laugh.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・

　
And another problem had been come to the surface at that time.

When Tokugawa had regime，aristocracy of Kyoto was limited action by Tokugawa.
Most of them were not to go out of the Kyoto and income had been limited.

”Reverence for the Emperor.”
New administration was born by this nominal.

"I’m a person who have been trust from the Emperor.
Currently, the Imperial Court is in need of funds.
You should provide the money for the Emperor."
　
"Main aristocracy of the imperial court.
I am very close with them.
If you require,I can be introduced you to them."　
　
"I'm a aristocracy.
So，I am a sacred presence."　
　
After the Restoration，such aristocracy appeared many.
Trouble by it had occurred in outside of Kyoto especially.

incitement

There was a man in Yoshinobu vassal named "Shibusawa Eiichiro".
He was originally farmers of Bushu. (Currently Saitama)

When Yoshinobu was in the Kan'eiji.
He formed the Shogitai for guard of Yoshinobu.

Therefore when Yoshinobu left to Mito，the mission of them was supposed to have ended.
But after this，it was became an unexpected situation.
　
Persons who had antipathy to the new government.
They had gathering to Kan'eiji one after another.
　
Of course they joined the Shogitai.　
Their number became close to two thousand.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・
　


When yoshinobu was still stay in Edo，he did suppressing Tokugawa's antigovernment activities.
After Yoshinobu was gone、its suppression had been natural released.

　
"The current situation.
It all is a conspiracy of Satsuma and Choshu.　
They tricked the young Emperor.
As result Tokugawa became an enemy of the court.
If you're really person of loyalty，you must destroy Satsuma and Choshu for the Emperor."

Person who write this written appeal.
It appeared in Kan'eiji monks.　
And he wrote it by the name of the royalty of Kan'eiji top.


Raid on new government soldiers by the Shogitai.
It began occurred frequently.
Deaths due to it.
Of course there was also in Satsuma samurai.

"Please give me a little time."
When full-scale measures began to be investigated，Katsu asked so to Saigo.
Saigo was treated the incident as a quarrel.　　

　
・・・・・・・・・


Katsu met this monk.
This monk had become a spiritual leader of the Shogitai.

"There is no reason for the government leave this situation.
Kan'eiji would certainly be attacked.
Right now，you must stop the provocation against the government."
Katsu said so.

"You say stupid things.
Why Satsuma and Choshu does not attack us until now.　
Because they do not have ability for it in the first place.

And large alliance was established in Ōu.
Their counterattack will begin soon.
We put up a united front with them.
Satsuma and Choshu will be downfall by it. "
He said cheerfully.


・・・・・・・・・　
　
　
"Katsu is a traitor.
Do not trust what he says."
After this，he said so.
　

alliance

Aizu clan was exist at inland of 200 km north of Edo.
And the Pacific Ocean side of 100 km northeast of Aizu.
There was Sendai clan.
　
Largest lord of Northeast area of Japan at that time.
It was Sendai clan.
200 years they had friendly relations.

"Aizu is the enemy of the Imperial court.
Sendai must subdue Aizu."
This instruction came suddenly to them from new government.

"Aizu had been guarding the Imperial court until quite recently.
The Emperor also had trust to Aizu.
We had been heard so.
But they became the enemy of the Imperial court suddenly.
We are hard to convince ourself about it.
Please reconsider for punishment to Aizu."
　
There was Yonezawa clan at 50 km north of Aizu.
200 years they also had friendly relations.
Yes，there was no problem between them.

Sendai consulted with Yonezawa.
Then they put out a petition like this to the new government.


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
Sendai exist in the Pacific Ocean side.
When crossed abeam from Sendai to the Sea of Japan side，there was Shounai clan.
　
"Shonai is also enemy of the Imperial court.
You must also subdue Shonai."
This was its reply.

Before the battle of Toba Fushimi，Shonai had attacked to the Satsuma mansion of Edo by the provocation of Satsuma.
(This was in the wake of the outbreak of war.)


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"The destruction of the old forces
It is the best way for show the change of era.
But we did clemency to Yoshinobu.
　
Enemies who are left to us.
It are Aizu and Shounai.
We must absolutely destruction them."　
Such intention had been expressed in explicit.

”Break situation by petition.
That is impossible.”
They realized.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・



There is Shiraishi basin in the middle of Aizu and Sendai.
(Sendai vassal territory.)

Incidentally，northeast area of Japan.
It called "Ōu".

Most lords in Ōu.
They held a meeting in Shiraishi.

"After now、this meeting will become our decision-making body.
Instruction of subdue aizu and shonai.
This is clearly unfair.
We request the withdrawal of this instruction."
They were notified like that to the new government.

This alliance called "Ōu Reppan Dōmei".

antipathy

"Idiot! "
Arima yelled.

"Why killed Kondo？
He was our enemy surely.
But he was a loyal subject of Tokugawa.
Above all he was a loyal subject of the Emperor."

"If he kept alive,we must continue his monitoring.
It will cost a fortune.
So killed him."
It was a reply.

From about this time，antipathy to the new government army of Edo citizens had became noticeable.

　
・・・・・・・・・　
　
　
Katsu negotiated with Enomoto at the request of the new government.

"Pass half of Tokugawa warships to the government."
As result this was agreed.
Navy's problem was solved  by it for the time being.
(Of course they did not pass capital ship.)
　
　
・・・・・・・・・　

　
Otori’s deserters troop.
Finally it reached 2,000 people.

They attacked the Utsunomiya castle.
And took possession of this castle.

They did retreat by new government troops attack.
But it was still alive in the suburbs of Edo

At the same time，security in the city of Edo had become deteriorated steadily.
　

・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"Edo citizens have lost the core of heart.
Government must called yoshinobu back from mito.
This is a best way of restoration of security. "
Kaishu insisted.

"Those who changing jobs in early to the government from Tokugawa.
They has been protect their property by the government.

Vassals who had loyal to Tokugawa to the end.
They are people with good sense.　
But their lands was confiscated all by the government.
Currently, all of them has to struggle to make a living.
Also merchant of Edo was made up by their consumption.
It was all destroyed.
This is a major factor in the deterioration in the security situation of Edo.
　

The government seized the territory of the Tokugawa.
The government say this is for make the state budget.
　
However，I think this amounts are not enough for cover the state budget.
　
It's not surprising.
Tokugawa was mere largest local lord of Japan.
Perhaps Tokugawa's territory is about 20% of Japan.
You guys are also know well it.

All Japan cover by it.
There is so impossible.
　

If think the priority，the government should protection their lives at first.

Afflict them.
This is nonsense."


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
Way home of after this.
Katsu was shot and fall from a horse.
He was syncope for a while.
　
”I'm alive.”
He muttered after awake.（not hit）
　
And he went home.

　

cloudy heart

There were twists and turns，the man who made the current political line.
It was Sakamoto and Nakaoka of Tosa.
And Katsu of Plenipotentiary of Tokugawa.
He was a master of Sakamoto.

"If Sakamoto and Nakaoka alive now."
At this time Tosa samurai would have thought so many times.

When Yoshinobu returned  the regime to Imperial court at Kyoto.
Tosa was at the center of the times.
But after the assassination of them，Tosa was receding rapidly from the times.

"Satsuma errand boy."
Part of them might had so snorting.
　
"They were killed by the Shinsengumi."
At that time Tosa samurai believed so.
Sasaki of Mimawarigumi had been killed already on battle of Toba Fushimi.
　

Itabashi is about 6 km north of the chiyoda castle.
Nakasendo troops were stationed here.
Therefore many Tosa samurai were on there.　
Almost of them also had revered Sakamoto and Nakaoka.

They insisted on the death penalty of Kondo.



・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"We want to help the lives of Kondo."
Satsuma had claimed so.
　
"Satsuma can not know our feeling.
How many Tosa people have been killed by Shinsengumi?"　
Listen to this，they were furious.
　
A key member of Tosa.
Before Restoration they were almost dead as front-line soldiers of the revolution.
Conversely Satsuma had almost survived.
(This is issue of the political system of Tosa.)
　
Tosa was only insisted on the death penalty.
Death penalty of Kondo finally decided.　
　

・・・・・・・・・　
　
　
Midnight of one day.
There was a visitor to Katsu.
It was Hijikata.
　
"Currently, Kondo is in a dangerous situation.
Please help to rescue him.
　
Just before his appearance，he tried to commit suicide in our defensive position.
Do not give up until the end.
You have a duty to live as a leader of Shinsengumi.
I said so.
I have stopped his suicide.
　
But he is about to be executed.
I must help him."
Hijikata said to Katsu.
　
"It's impossible.
I think you can understanding about it.
Now, it is very important to the survival of the Tokugawa.
They has also suspecting my involvement to Kondo.
It is evident by the questioning to Kondo.
I can not take hasty action."
Katsu replied so.　　
　
"He is immediate follower of the Tokugawa.
He fought at the risk of life and limb for Tokugawa."　
　

"Tokugawa become a dangerous situation.
I can not do it for one vassal."
　
"Kondo is my best friend.
Please help me to rescue him."
　
Katsu was silence.
Hijikata was gone.

　
　
・・・・・・・・・
　　


”Hijikata came to visit me.
He was talking about in Nagareyama.”　
Katsu only wrote it in his diary.

"I had letting die without helping Kondo."
With this that he did not write.　

　
　
・・・・・・・・・
　
　
Kondo was executed in Itabashi.
His head became an expose in Kyoto as scumbag.　
　

pseudonym

Nagareyama is about 20 km northeast of the chiyoda castle.
　
"Unknown troop exist surely in Nagareyama.
That number about 200 people."
Arima went to Nagareyama after received this report.
Defensive position made there.
　
”Spread out！”
He ordered so his subordinates and they advanced.
Firefight began.
　
”Do not shoot！”
After a while，few people came out of the defensive position with white flag.
One of them was Kondo.　
　
"My name is Ookubo Yamato.
I'm vassal of Tokugawa."
Kondo said to Arima.
　
Previously, Arima was in Kyoto.
He knew the face of Kondo.
　

"Recently, the security of this area has deteriorated.
We have stationed to protect the security of this area.
At first we did not know you guys is Government troop.
So we did the attack.
Please forgive our misunderstanding."
Kondo continued.



"I see.
However,Mr Ookubo.
You guys attacked the troop of Imperial court.
This is fact.
You must appear to military headquarters for excuse."
Arima asked.

"Of course."
Kondo replied.

Once，he went back to his defensive position.
And he accompanied Arima.



・・・・・・・・・
　

Military headquarters in this direction.
It was in Itabashi at that time.
Kondo was to be transferred to it.
　
”He is a great general.
You guys must corresponding respectfully.”
Arima said so to escorts.　


・・・・・・・・・
　

"Kondo was arrested."
The new government became abuzz.
　
”My name is Ookubo Yamato.”
But Kondo kept saying so.
　
Ito Kashitaro.
He did a splinter activity from Shinsengumi.
As result he was killed by Shinsengumi.
There was his comrade in the new government troops of Itabashi.
　
"He is Kondo."
He testified.　
　

desertion

Early morning of next day.
Yoshinobu was departured from Kan'eiji.
He was pinched and was a modest garb.
Accompanied persons also were a small number.

This was the end of Tokugawa regime of 270 years.

At that time，some samurai had gathered to Kan'eiji for guard of Yoshinobu.
They was referred to as "Shogitai".
They were guarding Yoshinobu until the halfway.
　
"Defend Yoshinobu."
Their original purpose was achieved by it.
　

・・・・・・・・・　
　
　
Behavior that borrowed the authority of the Imperial court.
After this it had been increased to the new government troops.
Of course Edo people had antipathy against it.
　
The top of Kan'eiji was the royalty as a convention.
Although it is formally，the top of the new government troops also was the royalty.

"Top of our side is the royalty.
Top of them is the royalty.
It is apposition."

Person of such an idea.
They had gathering to Kan'eiji gradually.


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
Surrender of the castle that ended in peaceful.
But the incident happened on that night.　
　
There was a man in Tokugawa vassal named ”Otori Keisuke.”
He was a child of the doctor of Harima.(Current Hyogo)
He studied Western science in Osaka.
Two years ago，he was adopted to Tokugawa vassal.
He was responsible for the Tokugawa army at this time.
　
He escaped from Edo along with the modern armament troops.
Their numbers was 450 people.

And Tokugawa navy disappeared from the Edo Bay.　
　
　
・・・・・・・・・　
　

"Requisitioned of Tokugawa Navy by Imperial Court.
Discontinuation of it.
We have been pleading for it.
But the Imperial Court did not reply to it.

Pass all warships to the government.
And today this instruction has come.
As result menacing atmosphere became full inside Tokugawa Navy.
　
Occurrence of unforeseen circumstances on this stage.
Imperial court and Tokugawa.
I think it is unfortunate for both.

Movement out of Edo Bay.
I've done this as a precaution.
There is no ulterior motive.
Please Imperial court understand it."

After a while，that message had been received from them.
Of course instruction was the reply.


・・・・・・・・・


Breakout troops of Tokugawa Army.
But urgent task of the new government was it.
They were being gathered in the suburbs of Edo.
　
Send troops hurry to the rest of the Kanto.
The new government was determined it.
(Their main purpose was edict as new regime of Japan.)
　
Satsuma samurai named ”Arima Touta”.
His troop aimed go to Joshu.　(Current Gunma)
　

"Kondo of Shinsengumi.
He exist in Nagareyama of Shimousa.
(Shimousa is current Chiba)"

Immediately after starting from Edo，Arima heard this rumor.

　

the day before

After the meeting，Saigo returned to Kyoto.
And he appealed to the Imperial Court for Yoshinobu clemency.

Most hardliners was Saigo in the first place.
Kido of Choshu was moderate on this matter.

"Attack against deference person.
It is questionable as principles of royalty."
Such opinions also were many.
　
"Yoshinobu leave to Mito.

Chiyoda castle passed tentatively to Owari clan of Tokugawa family.
　
The government Confiscate all Tokugawa weapons.
After certain period of time it return to Tokugawa.
(Within the range the government has allowed)
　
Inhabitants of Chiyoda castle.
All of them leave from the castle."

This policy had been officially decided.
It was immediately transmitted to Tokugawa.

"Day of passing Castle to the new government，Yoshinobu leave to Mito."
It also had been officially decided.　


・・・・・・・・・


Confusions was began towards the castle surrender.

Desertion of Tokugawa soldiers from Edo occurred frequently.

Raising an army at Edo.
It also had been planning secretly by some troops.
Eventually this plan was crushed by reprimand of Yoshinobu.
But menacing atmosphere was filled in town of Edo.
　
"The castle surrender is run peacefully.
That time、the government forces will not enter in Edo town.
Wait in the suburbs."
There was this agreement.
However,the day before，Saigo did deployed troops in the city.

Katsu on this day.
He met with Yoshinobu and went to the naval base.
Because trends in Tokugawa Navy was uncertain.
During this movement，he also witnessed this breach of agreement.
　
Of course naval base peoples was in a rage.
Katsu and their discussion became entangled.　


・・・・・・・・・
　

At that time Satsuma samurai came to visit Katsu.

”I looked for you.”
He said with a smile.

"I am the messenger of Saigo.
You must tell this surely to Katsu.
I was so ordered.

Deployed of troops is breach of agreement.　
Of course I also think so.

But presence of menacing atmosphere.
This is fact.

Occurrence of unforeseen circumstances on this stage.
Imperial court and Tokugawa.
I think it is unfortunate for both.

I've done this as a precaution.
There is no ulterior motive.
Please Tokugawa understand it."

"I see.
Please give my best regards to Saigo."
Katsu replied.

Substantially leader of Tokugawa Navy.
It was Enomoto.　
　
"I understand,Saigo is such a man."
He was impressed by the sincerity of Saigo.
　
"No complaints as enemy."
And he muttered.　
　

a day in the life

"Tokugawa does a fairly blatant Intimidation.
This is not the attitude of those who surrender."
When katsu arrived Satsuma mansion,people were become thirsty for blood.
But Saigo appeared alone in the conference room.

"Saigo was polite as usual at that time."
Later Katsu did reminiscence like that.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・


"Tokugawa was finally cornered."
Saigo said at the beginning of the meeting.

"Not as much as you guys."
Katsu replied so.
Listen to this，Saigo had a good laugh.

"When this meeting broke down，burn all enemy with Edo."
Before this，Katsu ordered so.

"We do not want to destroy Edo.
We believe it is for Japan.

Security of tycoon life.
Multitude vassals of Tokugawa.
Security of their lives.

If Imperial Court can tolerate this，Tokugawa will surrender intact.
Vassals who don't think so.
Of course they exist.

However，we fulfill this at the risk of life and limb.
Please your trust in us."
Katsu said so at once.
　
"I see.
I will trust you."
Saigo only said.

All-out attack was called off.　　
　
　
・・・・・・・・・　
　

Way back of Katsu was became the night.
It did not hit，he was shot from the darkness.


・・・・・・・・・
　

After the retreat from Koshu、Shinsengumi was in a state of natural extinction.
They did not know well the whereabouts of each other.

After a while，Nagakura and Harada was able to contact with some people.
They also found the whereabouts of Kondo and Hijikata.
Of course they went there.

"Edo seems to surrender.
Can you go to Aizu with us?"
Nagakura asked to Kondo.
Probably Nagakura had a sense of little distrust against kondo from circumstance of Koshu.　
　
"We create a new organization and let fight together in Aizu."
He said continue.
　
"You guys will be my vassal.
If so swear，I will can fight together."
Kondo was sensitive to feel this atmosphere.
He said so.

"Since its formation of Shinsengumi，I've thought of you as comrades.
I've never become your vassal.
Just now、I understand your think.
I can't fight with you."
Nagakura was furious and he went away.

They did not meet again.
At this time，Shinsengumi was gone virtually.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・　
　

Nagakura survived this era.
After era had changed，he built a monument honoring for Kondo and Hijikata.
It still exists on JR Itabashi Station.


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
Sendagaya of neighborhood of Shinjuku.
Okita was recuperating at barn of gardener.　
(De facto hiding)
　
One day,a black cat appeared in the garden.
　
”Bring me a sword.
I kill that cat.”
Okita asked the old woman.
　
Since the disease was worse，he had no strength left almost.
He was out in the garden with tottering steps.
And he was face to face with a black cat for a while.
　
"I can't kill that cat."
He only said.
　
After a few days，he was dead.　

The day of all-out attack

Road to Edo from Kyoto via Koshu.
It called Nakasendo.
This road had been surpassed by the new government troops.

Road to Edo from Kyoto through seaside.
It called Tokaido.
Troops of this road was main troops of the new government.
And its commander-in-Chief was Saigo.
They was also approaching to Edo.

"Extradition of all military supplies of Tokugawa.
Eviction from Chiyoda castle.
Execution of a person who let slip the dogs of war at Toba Fushimi.
If this request is accepted the Emperor will be take clemency to Yoshinobu."

They presented this request to Tokugawa with preparation of all-out attack.

　
・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"War might begin on Edo."
Of course its prediction had become strong in the diplomatic corps.　

Foreign settlement of Yokohama was closer to Edo.
They did strengthen the security.
And they began to collect information.　
　
Full authority of the negotiations of Tokugawa against the new goverment.
It had been given to Katsu at that time.
Ernest met with Katsu.


・・・・・・・・・


"Total Commander of enemy is Saigo.
So I'm optimistic to future prospects.
I know him well.
He will not take cruel action.

Security of tycoon life.
Multitude vassals of Tokugawa.
Security of their lives.
If Imperial court accept this，Tokugawa to surrender meekly."
Katsu said to Ernest.

"If Imperial court not accept this，Tokugawa will fight."
Of course，he added so.

"I have a favor to ask to you.
War in Edo.
This is not good for Japan.
I want to this talk to them from the British Ambassador."　
Katsu continued.
Ernest was readily agreed.
　
　
・・・・・・・・・


"We have determined the total attack to Edo.
So large number of wounded is expected.
We want to make the hospital in Yokohama for it."
The new government troops proposed to diplomatic corps.

"Tokugawa shows the intention of surrender already.　
To attack it that is questionable humanely and legally.
This attack would diminish significantly the evaluation of the new government."
But British Ambassador strongly advised like that to the new government.
　

・・・・・・・・・　
　
　
Main troops arrived in Edo.
Saigo also went into Satsuma mansion of Edo.
The day of all-out attack to Chiyoda castle also determined.

Two days before that plan day.
Saigo and Katsu did meeting.

"If this meeting was broken off.
Set fire to all of Edo.
Edo vicinity's ships of public-private.
Gather all it.
Rescue the citizens of Edo by it."
Before the meeting,Katsu was preparing this.

Probably this plan had been done openly.
Tokugawa navy.
It also had gathered in Edo Bay.

Then Katsu went alone to Satsuma mansion.　
　

there is good news

Castle of Tokugawa called "Chiyoda Castle."
(The current Imperial Palace.)

Its northeast, about 3 km. (about 2 miles)
There was a family temple of Tokugawa clan named "Kan'eiji."

”I will refrained from going out.
Because I hope shows the intention of allegiance to Imperial Court."
Yoshinobu said so and decided to move to this temple.
(Chiyoda Castle was Japan's largest fortress.)


During his move，Shinsengumi was also guard along the way.
But Shinsengumi members had been greatly reduced than before. 　
(About 60 percent casualty rate in the war.)
　
"There is good news."
There was a person who approached to Kondo at that time.
　
"Koshu of Tokugawa territory.
(Current Yamanashi.
The back side of Mt fuji，viewed from the Pacific Ocean.)

Tokugawa officials have been retreated from there already.
So now there is not ruler in this land.
And Tokugawa will be in trouble if this land was occupied by the enemy.
　
If you want it，Shinsengumi can go to Koshu for security.
In that case，you can have all domination of Koshu.
In other words，You can become a feudal lord.
Of course Tokugawa make a sinews of war for Shinsengumi."
He said so to Kondo.


・・・・・・・・・
　
　
"Kondo and Hijikata.
Tokugawa will appoint you guys as immediate follower of Tokugawa.
And Tokugawa give the last name of Tokugawa high-ranking vassals to you guys."
At the same time，There was this notice to them.

"So that it does not pales as the ruler of Koshu."
Maybe there was such intention. (on the surface)
　
Kondo was Ookubo Yamato.
Hijikata was Naito Hayato.
　
After this，they would be call themselves like that in place of the official.　
　

・・・・・・・・・
　

Immediately they did recruit.
The result became several hundred soldiers.
And they started march to Koshu.

When we go to the west of the Kanto Plain.
There is a mountain massif.
　
Beyond that massif, there is a basin Koshu.　
Before that massif，It was the hometown of Kondo and Hijikata called "Tama".
They were born as farmers child here.

But now，they was permitted costumes of lords from Tokugawa.
People of their hometown were warm welcome as hero.
　
"Enemy troops is approaching to Koshu."
Of course there was this information.
But they did march slowly.
　
At this time Hijikata met his sister after an absence of several years.
He boasted of his success to his sister.
And he added at the end.

"I do not know the future."
　
　
・・・・・・・・・
　

"Today,Tosa troops occupied the Koshu castle.
Their numbers is about 2,000."

One day before of the arrival of Shinsengumi.
It was reported to them by reconnaissance.　
East of the Koshu castle, about 15 km.
There is called "Katsunuma".　
They stoped at there, and made hurry a defensive position.
　
But escape of the soldiers from Shinsengumi was the one after another.
They had just joined the Shinsengumi a few days ago.

"Aizu reinforcements coming soon."
They lied to the soldiers for overcome this emergency.
(But Aizu troops was back already to their home country by Tokugawa's instruction.)
　
During this time，Hijikata went hurry to Kanagawa  for request of reinforcements.
But this was failed.
And their lie also discovered from the soldiers.
The results Shinsengumi were became about one hundred soldiers.
　

Finally they had surrounded by Tosa troops.　
They were sinking into anarchy in the battle for a few hours，and retreated to Edo.

　

t'ain't nobody's business

"When previous tycoon died.
Yoshinobu was the person who is most promising in Tokugawa clan.
He was sworn to tycoon with people expectations.

The results，he could not do any reform.
Probably his faction did not allow all reform.
He was merely riding on his faction people.
And now he has just been swept up by the era.
He is just the man of the lack of a plan."
There was recognition like this in the diplomatic corps.

　
・・・・・・・・・　

　
"The land of Japan will be collateral for the sinews of war."
This proposal from enthusiastic vassals.
But Yoshinobu refused emphatically.

"Even if Imperial court kill me，I will deference to the Emperor."
He declared so to the French ambassador.

Oguri Tadamasa of Tokugawa vassal.
He was a representative of bellicose argument.
Yoshinobu did dismissed him from Tokugawa
　
If Tokugawa did a full-scale war against new government.
They might have won.
Obviously Yoshinobu crushed that possibility.
　
If think it from now.
Japan future had been saved by it.
　

・・・・・・・・・
　

"Enemy of the Imperial court.
This is a mere game of words.
We are no need worry at all.
Just now，we should start to fight back against Satsuma and Choshu than it."
Of course there was still an opinion like this in Tokugawa vassal against the will of Yoshinobu.

　
・・・・・・・・・


"The enemy's troops that has been advancing from road of the Pacific Ocean side.
Perhaps this would be the enemy's main force.

If I led the Tokugawa navy.　
I will ambush them.
And we will do naval gunfire against it.
At the same time，we will do blockade to the supply route from the sea.
Tokugawa Navy has been overwhelming against enemy.
This strategy will succeed surely."
Katsu also told Yoshinobu.
　
"However，war is likely to become a quagmire by it.
I think it's not good for Japan."
He continued so.
　
Yoshinobu and Katsu.
They had been on bad terms for a long time.
　
"Tokugawa must lose for Japan."　
At this time,they became buddy.
　

・・・・・・・・・
　
　
Edo.(Now Tokyo)

Edo was one of the world's largest metropolis already.
And there was home of Tokugawa.

Lords of nationwide of Japan.
At intervals of one year，they had to live in their territory and Edo.
There was such system as the security measures of Tokugawa.
It called "Sankin Koutai".
　
Samurai（vassals of the lords) gathered in Edo from around the country by it.
They were just consumer at Edo.
Of course, therefore merchants also gathered.
Shortly before this time，Edo population had reached 1.4 million people.


"Edo is not in possession of  Tokugawa clan.
Of course, it's not even in possession of the Imperial court.
　
Edo is the capital of Japan.
It is a public space in society.
It dont be destroyed.
I must protect Edo from war."
Katsu thought so.
He started the action for the purpose of it.
　
It was also a betrayal to the fellow of Tokugawa.

collateral

There was the man in vassal of Tokugawa named "Fukuchi Genichiro".
He was born as child of a doctor in Nagasaki.
He became a vassal of Tokugawa by his talent.
　
After this，he was recognized by Iwakura.
He became a member of the envoy to the West countries of Iwakura.
Then he became a journalist representing the era.
　
・・・・・・・・・　
　
"Borrow war fund from France.
Its collateral is customs house．
　
Foreign settlement in Yokohama.
Transfer this land to west countries.
Borrow war fund by it."

There were many opinions like this inside Tokugawa vassal.
　
"If I think from now,it's very stupid.
However,I was also agree it at that time."
Later Fukuchi was so look back.
　
Era of imperialism.
Cede territory to other countries.
It was the first step to the colony.
　
In fact，this proposal was became on the agenda.
It was in an effective way for resurrection of Tokugawa
　
Yoshinobu refused emphatically.　　

stigma

"The war began in Kyoto."
This news arrived in Edo.

"We can get rid of Satsuma and Choshu by it."
They were being over joy.

But immediately after this，Yoshinobu came back to Edo.
　
"His face was pale at that time."
Katsu wrote so.
　
・・・・・・・・・　
　

"By the conspiracy of the lord of Satsuma.
Tokugawa had to contend with the imperial court.

Enemy of the imperial court.

Tokugawa became has this stigma.
I wanted to meet the Emperor for this explanation.
But it did not come true.

If this situation goes on、Tokugawa must war against the Emperor.
I came back to the Edo in order to avoid it."
Yoshinobu explained to vassals.

"We should send troops to Osaka once again."
Of course they were enraged.

journey

Problem hidden Christians in Nagasaki.
Its Judgment was entrusted from the office of Nagasaki to Kyoto.
　
"Anti-establishment forces.
They may become it."
They might thought so.
　
New government not long after the establishment.
East Japan was still the sphere of influence of Tokugawa.　
　
"Central figures should to the death penalty.
Those who remain,They become all banishment from Nagasaki to throughout west Japan.
Their right to life-and-death power.　
It is given to the lord of its land."
Kido of Choshu proposed so.

”It is too harsh.”
But Komatsu of Satsuma opposed it.
　
"All hidden Christians become all banishment from Nagasaki to throughout west Japan."
Eventually this had officially decided like this.

・・・・・・・・・
　

More than 3000 people.
They had been separated from their family.
And they had been banishment from Nagasaki to throughout west Japan.
They were tortured numerous there.
　
About three years later.
This had been reported in Europe and the United States as a human rights issue.
This persecution was over easily by it.
　
After this，hidden Christians called this persecution ”Journey”.

evil

There was a novelist named "Okamoto Kido".
He was born in this era.
　
There was his detective story that takes place in Edo at this time.
(Perhaps Sherlock Holmes of London was model.)

Rumors of hidden Christians at that time come out in this novel.
　
Witch.
Secret society of evil.

It's almost this feeling.


"Before the Meiji Restoration，most people at the time were believed superstitions."
Of course Okamoto had wrote so.

　
・・・・・・・・・　
　
Therefore most officials of the new government still had feeling like that.
　
"Hidden Christians of Japan and Christianity are the same."
Probably they did not such recognized.
　
"Expulsion of the foreigners is a method of ancient Japan."
"Prohibition of hidden Christians is a method of ancient Japan."
Probably there was the same feeling illusion.
　
・・・・・・・・・　

"Right now，you guys must stop the secret Christian faith."
The new government had ordered so to people of Urakami.
　
Of course they refused.

not change

At that time，Tokugawa’s edict board had been erected at throughout Japan.
Prohibited matter were written there.
　
At this time，that name was replaced to new government.
(Provisions does not change.)
　
"The Imperial Court wants to friendship with other countries.
Treaty with them.
We must protect it in accordance with the universal public law.
Violation act against this.
We does not accept all.
Be properly punished by the charges."
This text had been added to it.
　
The new government was officially declared a break with the expulsion of the foreigners.
　
・・・・・・・・・　　
　

Before this provisions，it was written at not change anything.
　
"Hidden Christians faith is not allowed."
　
Officials of the new government had also arrived in Nagasaki.
Tokugawa officials had already retreat.
　
"There are Hidden Christians in Urakami."
He called its representative.