Part 181

Delve into the lore of Nioh 3, uncovering the true identities of Tenkai and Saika Magoichi, their motivations, and their roles in Japanese history.

Tenkai is a learned monk versed in Buddhism, Shinto, Taoism, Onmyo, Shugendo, and Feng Shui. He uses this knowledge to advise daimyo and is concerned about the potential disaster from abusing Amrita's spiritual power.

Tenkai is revealed to be Akechi Mitsuhide, the general responsible for the Honnoji Temple Incident, which led to Oda Nobunaga's death. After faking his death, Mitsuhide changed his name to Tenkai and became a monk. He now supports Tokugawa Ieyasu's ambition to unite Japan and intervenes when he senses a threat to world harmony, such as the arrival of Kelley and William.

Nobunaga's plan to use Amrita's power for world conquest was a threat to harmony. Mitsuhide's decision to assassinate his lord, despite the dishonor, was to prevent this. He later sent Fuku to stop William and Kelley, and took personal action.

Following the Battle of Sekigahara, Tenkai utilized his expertise as an Onmyo mage and Feng Shui master to influence Edo's street layout. He established Kan'eiji temple on Mount Toei, similar to Mount Hiei's role as a spiritual barrier, to protect Edo from supernatural threats.

Saika Magoichi is the leader of the Saika, a mercenary group based in western Kii Province, specializing in firearms and cannons. The current Magoichi is Suzuki Shigetomo. The Saika prefer guerrilla tactics and are loyal only to those who pay them.

Formerly employed by Ken'nyo of Honganji Temple, the Saika fiercely resisted Oda Nobunaga at Ishiyama Honganji but were later defeated. They revere the crow Yatagarasu and are believed to possess the ability to perceive spirits.

The Saika's involvement in shipping and trade allowed them to quickly acquire knowledge of firearms after their introduction through Tanegashima. They trained skilled marksmen and developed tactics to overcome the reloading weakness of firearms, making them a formidable force.

Magoichi's forces once inflicted a significant blow on Nobunaga with firearms, forcing him to retreat. The Saika's tactic involved two lines of marksmen: one firing while the other reloaded, then switching positions. This efficient method allowed for continuous engagement.

The Saika, a unique group of nobles and craftsmen, managed to operate independently of the daimyo system. They opposed Toyotomi Hideyoshi's centralization of power but were eventually subdued by his armies. Despite this, they maintained their rebellious spirit and commitment to martial prowess, preserving their way of life amidst societal changes.

Otani Yoshitsugu is a general serving the Toyotomi clan, known for his intelligence and bravery.