The highest-ranking woman in Japan, Ochiba-no-kata is the feared and admired mother of the Heir. As a consort to the late Taikō and the only one to bear him a child, she wields significant political influence in Osaka.
When our story begins, Ochiba is in Toranaga's home city of Edo to be with her sister while she gives birth. Although Japan is not openly at war, Ochiba is a hostage in Edo, guaranteeing Toranaga's safety while he meets with his enemies in Osaka.
Ochiba is the daughter of the great warlord Kuroda, who nearly succeeded in uniting Japan. Her father was an expert military strategist, both respected and feared.
She had the rarified upbringing of a princess, and as her father's favorite, she keenly studied his tactics, seeing a softer side of the mythic leader. But when her father was killed by one of his generals, Ochiba lost her family, her home, and her status in one bloody night.
