Chikaie was the 2nd son of Ôtomo Yoshishige (Sôrin). Owing to his bad nature, he was sent into the priesthood. After he had mended his behavior, he was allowed to return to secular life. In 1575 he was baptized and in 1579 he was adopted as heir into the Tawara family. Around 1586 he feuded with his brother Yoshimune and was accused of colluding with the Shimazu. After Toyotomi Hideyoshi's armies had driven back the Shimazu, Hideyoshi wanted to execute Chikaie but was convinced by Sôrin to instead deprive him of his domain.
References
- Initial text from Sengoku Biographical Dictionary (Samurai-Archives.com) FWSeal & CEWest, 2005