"…Whatever it is that you would have me do, I cannot break my vows." Matsudaira stated firmly, though it was clear that he was beginning to be swayed by Gengyo's proposal. The others had their ears perked up as well. This was the first they had heard of any alliance being formed, and there was some disapproval amongst them, despite them being able to acknowledge without a shadow of doubt the supreme competence of the enemy commander.
"I would not ask that of you. Your men are free now, to do as they will. All I need is something subtle from you that might sway them to join my cause, anything more than that I do not expect. If they do not wish to fight for me, then I will grant their freedom, and their lives."
Once more Matsudaira remained silent, in a deep state of thought, which Gengyo interpreted as a sign that he should continue.