Otogishu were the close advisers who were called to their lord's side and gave advice about politics and military affair, while they also reported buhenbanashi (anecdotes about the life of samurai) or situation of various districts to their lord.
主君の側に召し出されて政治や軍事の相談役となり、また武辺話や諸国の動静を伝えたり、世間話の相手も務めた側近。