Many years ago, Japan was a land divided.

Its lands were split between individual lords who had full power over their land.

Greedy for power, many of these lords fought against their neighbors for more land. Peace and harmony was rare to come across, and the lords ruled over their people unfairly.

However, there was still one lord who treated all of his people fairly and kindly. His name was Uesugi Kenshin. He was known throughout Japan for his kindness.

He was loved by his people, and neighboring lords alike. All but one man appreciated Kenshin's kind character.

That man was known as Takeda Shingen. The fiercest lord in all of Japan. He ruled over his people as if they meant nothing to him, and he did not hesitate to steal land from his neighbors.

Shingen despised Kenshin's kind character, and made it his goal to conquer all of Kenshin's lands for himself.

Takeda Shingen readied himself for battle, and told his messenger to relay the message to his generals.

"Tell them to prepare! We march to Echigo tomorrow!" shouted Shingen.

"M'lord, isn't Echigo the land of Uesugi Kenshin? Why would we invade him? He is the most respected man in Japan!"

"Hahaha! That is exactly why I made the decision to invade him, now go and inform them to prepare our soldiers!"

Soon, word of Takeda Shingen's plans reached Uesugi Kenshin. Having never fought a battle before, he was filled with worry.

Rather than cowering in fear, Kenshin decided the best decision would be to consult with the elder of a shrine, and so he went to the only shrine in Echigo.

Kenshin made his way through the misty forests of Echigo to the ancient shrine which stood humbly, despite it's reputation for being one of the oldest in Japan.

As he made his way through the forest, a cold wind suddenly shook the leaves of the trees with a whoosh. "Could this be a sign of misfortune?" Kenshin wondered in fear.

After a long while of walking, Kenshin finally approached the entrance of the shrine. He bowed and made his way to the elder of the shrine.

"Lord Kenshin, what an honor it is for you to visit this shrine, what can I do for you today?" asked the Elder.

"The honor is mine to be here today. I am sure you have heard of Lord Takeda's plans. I am concerned that Echigo will fall into his hands, I am not a man of war, but of peace." said Kenshin.

"Lord Kenshin, be not worried by Takeda's threats. He is a man of war, people do not respect him as they respect you. The people of Echigo will gladly come to support you in this conflict." replied the Elder.

The elder's wise words had reassured Kenshin, and he gave his thanks to the elder before leaving. He was now prepared to defend Echigo from Takeda himself.

Although Takeda's armies were large and experienced, Kenshin had faith in the unity of his people in order to defend their home.