The war that began in 842 T-K between the three daughters of Emperor Daisetsu proved ruinous for Ikaiguchi. As the women struggled for dominance from their far-flung capitals, the few loyalists fortified Mienai Yōsai, and let the country burn. This lost the imperial forces supporters, and so people turned to the Empresses instead, their strength gathering as they set Ikaiguchi ablaze.
It was not until a powerful general still loyal to the Sorano Dynasty rose to prominence, and fought against the three empresses, that the conflict was brought to an end. General Yoshito fought his enemies on land and sea, in the cities and fields, gathering support as he did so. His samurai led ashigaru in the droves, one the largest single armies in the history of Ikaiguchi, as his popularity called people to his banner. Of particular importance were the Celestial Lancers, samurai armed with Naginata, devoted to Tengoku Amare, and the Yasei Militia, who rose to oppose the tyranny of the Empress of Mice.
By the war’s close, this “peasant’s army” had swelled, and added countless samurai and daimyo to its ranks. The final battle became known as The Battle of a Thousand Fans for the many fans the royal retinues brought with them, both as statements of wealth and to combat the extreme summer heat.
At this battle, fought on the grass plains of the south, Yoshito finally defeated the three empresses, uniting Ikaiguchi once more. His reign was to be peaceful, at least for a time, for Yoshito’s strength was written in blood.