My most trusted ally,
It is good that you have decided to join with us, it shows that you have wisdom that others in the Empire have obviously lost. This is a dark time, and with the Emperor wasting away in his Palace, there is need for strength. We are that strength. We shall lead the Empire from this hour of darkness into a new dawn. When we achieve the Emerald Throne, you shall have great rewards for your loyalty. This is my promise to you. For generations, the Crab Clan has guarded the Great Wall that separates the Shadowlands from Rokugan, and rumors run rampant through the Empire that we have become corrupted from the evil of that land, but rumors have as much consequence as a strong wind. In time, they will pass. As for the battles we wage across the Empire, I can tell you much. The Clans have engaged in the first major battle of the War, and though the untrained eye would say we were not victorious, I assure you, our victory is not easy for the untrained eye to see.
Our samurai were unparalleled on the field. They proved their bravery and honor as the sorcery of the Phoenix Clan swept over them and as the Unicorn Clan rode against them with their mighty steeds.
And though we were not victorious in the battle, much was achieved. Many Phoenix samurai were killed, and by whittling down their puny forces, the secretive shugenja leave themselves vulnerable to future attacks. The Unicorn may have mighty steeds, but with every mount our archers cut down, their cavalry grows weaker and weaker.
It was the Crane Clan that won the day, appealing to the other Clans for support. This may seem as if it were a defeat, but you must look at it as a victory for us. The Crane Clan won the support of the Dragon and Lion Clans, but you and I both know the long rivalry the Lion and Crane have had. That is an alliance that is as short-lived as a Scorpion's promise. And speaking of Scorpions, I have been in contact with a member of the Bayushi family who has made promises to me. I hold no trust for Scorpions, but those eager to restore their honor will sacrifice much to gain little. I will keep you aware of our future alliances with this fallen Clan. Our time is swiftly approaching, my friend. The Shadowlands stir even now, and we are the only Clan who have the knowledge to handle the horrors of that vile place. It has been too long since the Empire has felt the terror that we have grown so accustomed to, and once they see the empty eyes and pallid skin of the walking dead, they will remember, and they will beg us to send it back.
Soon. Very soon, the Empire shall be ours, and we shall restore it to a second golden age.
It is good that you have decided to join with us, it shows that you have wisdom that others in the Empire have obviously lost. This is a dark time, and with the Emperor wasting away in his Palace, there is need for strength. We are that strength. We shall lead the Empire from this hour of darkness into a new dawn. When we achieve the Emerald Throne, you shall have great rewards for your loyalty. This is my promise to you. For generations, the Crab Clan has guarded the Great Wall that separates the Shadowlands from Rokugan, and rumors run rampant through the Empire that we have become corrupted from the evil of that land, but rumors have as much consequence as a strong wind. In time, they will pass. As for the battles we wage across the Empire, I can tell you much. The Clans have engaged in the first major battle of the War, and though the untrained eye would say we were not victorious, I assure you, our victory is not easy for the untrained eye to see.
Our samurai were unparalleled on the field. They proved their bravery and honor as the sorcery of the Phoenix Clan swept over them and as the Unicorn Clan rode against them with their mighty steeds.
And though we were not victorious in the battle, much was achieved. Many Phoenix samurai were killed, and by whittling down their puny forces, the secretive shugenja leave themselves vulnerable to future attacks. The Unicorn may have mighty steeds, but with every mount our archers cut down, their cavalry grows weaker and weaker.
It was the Crane Clan that won the day, appealing to the other Clans for support. This may seem as if it were a defeat, but you must look at it as a victory for us. The Crane Clan won the support of the Dragon and Lion Clans, but you and I both know the long rivalry the Lion and Crane have had. That is an alliance that is as short-lived as a Scorpion's promise. And speaking of Scorpions, I have been in contact with a member of the Bayushi family who has made promises to me. I hold no trust for Scorpions, but those eager to restore their honor will sacrifice much to gain little. I will keep you aware of our future alliances with this fallen Clan. Our time is swiftly approaching, my friend. The Shadowlands stir even now, and we are the only Clan who have the knowledge to handle the horrors of that vile place. It has been too long since the Empire has felt the terror that we have grown so accustomed to, and once they see the empty eyes and pallid skin of the walking dead, they will remember, and they will beg us to send it back.
Soon. Very soon, the Empire shall be ours, and we shall restore it to a second golden age.
Hida Kisada
Greetings and good will to you -
It is my duty to bring news from the Empire to you, our most trusted ally, for it is only with your assistance that we may save Rokugan from an age of eternal darkness. There is much to say, and so I shall dispense with the formalities.
With the Crab Clan turning their back on their duty, the Shadowlands have begun to creep into the Empire. Already we have seen armies of dead men marching across Rokugan, and the first major battle between the Clans has taken place. We lost much in the battle, but in the end, the sacrifices that were made brought us victory. Master Toshimoko was vitally instrumental in our victory, bringing much honor to our Clan. His courage is to be remembered.
We gained two vital allies on that day: the Lion Clan and the Phoenix Clan. The Dragons were also instrumental in our victory, but it was the actions of Matsu Tsuke that allowed us our victory. It was she that stood against the destructive power of the Crab. And though the Phoenix army was situated for an attack, they chose not to do so, thus keeping the Crab armies from attacking further into our lands.
Yes, we have achieved the first victory in this war, but the only victory that matters is the reunion of the Clans under the Emperor's banner. Our alliance with the Lion Clan is tenuous at best, and we have never understood the enigma that is the Dragon Clan.
As for the rumors of the rebirth of the Scorpion Clan, let me put your worries to rest. I have just received a letter from our Champion, Doji Hoturi. He even now speaks to the Emperor in the Imperial Palace, and he assures me that there is no need to be concerned with the fallen Bayushi family. Their Champion is dead and their scheming High Lady is separated from the politics of the Empire.
But the rumors of the Naga... that is something I can say nothing of. We have seen what may be Naga, but reports are never conclusive. We shall have to investigate further.
We have also seen evidence to prove the rumor that Akodo Toturi (the fallen Lion Champion) has gathered a small band of samurai about him. They seem to be mostly Dragon and Unicorn, although many ronin have also joined him. If you can, appeal to him, for he is a man of great wisdom in the ways of war, and he would make an invaluable ally to us in this dark time.
That is all the news I can bring you for now, my friend. Go with the wisdom of Shinsei in your heart and pray to the Seven Fortunes that this conflict finds its resolution soon.
It is my duty to bring news from the Empire to you, our most trusted ally, for it is only with your assistance that we may save Rokugan from an age of eternal darkness. There is much to say, and so I shall dispense with the formalities.
With the Crab Clan turning their back on their duty, the Shadowlands have begun to creep into the Empire. Already we have seen armies of dead men marching across Rokugan, and the first major battle between the Clans has taken place. We lost much in the battle, but in the end, the sacrifices that were made brought us victory. Master Toshimoko was vitally instrumental in our victory, bringing much honor to our Clan. His courage is to be remembered.
We gained two vital allies on that day: the Lion Clan and the Phoenix Clan. The Dragons were also instrumental in our victory, but it was the actions of Matsu Tsuke that allowed us our victory. It was she that stood against the destructive power of the Crab. And though the Phoenix army was situated for an attack, they chose not to do so, thus keeping the Crab armies from attacking further into our lands.
Yes, we have achieved the first victory in this war, but the only victory that matters is the reunion of the Clans under the Emperor's banner. Our alliance with the Lion Clan is tenuous at best, and we have never understood the enigma that is the Dragon Clan.
As for the rumors of the rebirth of the Scorpion Clan, let me put your worries to rest. I have just received a letter from our Champion, Doji Hoturi. He even now speaks to the Emperor in the Imperial Palace, and he assures me that there is no need to be concerned with the fallen Bayushi family. Their Champion is dead and their scheming High Lady is separated from the politics of the Empire.
But the rumors of the Naga... that is something I can say nothing of. We have seen what may be Naga, but reports are never conclusive. We shall have to investigate further.
We have also seen evidence to prove the rumor that Akodo Toturi (the fallen Lion Champion) has gathered a small band of samurai about him. They seem to be mostly Dragon and Unicorn, although many ronin have also joined him. If you can, appeal to him, for he is a man of great wisdom in the ways of war, and he would make an invaluable ally to us in this dark time.
That is all the news I can bring you for now, my friend. Go with the wisdom of Shinsei in your heart and pray to the Seven Fortunes that this conflict finds its resolution soon.
Kakita Yoshi
My most honored ally -
The Dragon Clan sends you greetings, good ally, and wishes you well on all your journeys. These are dark times, and to make a journey across the once pleasant plains of Rokugan is now a perilous and possibly foolish act. Only the wise and the naive travel in darkness. We hope you are not naive.
We bring you news of the Empire, friend. We have taken a part in the recent battle between the six Clans, and there is much to tell and explain. At the surface, our actions may seem irrational, but as it is with our Clan, there are deep truths to be found under the dark clouds of mystery.
The battle was fierce, and there were many times when a victor could have been decided, but at a moment's notice, victory was snatched from his grasp. Seizing victory is much like fishing: you must learn to give a little on the line, lest the weight of your prize work against you.
Strangely enough, it was the Phoenix Clan who showed great wisdom in the final decisive action of the battle. There had been many opportunities for the Lion Clan to walk away with the victory, but it was always our samurai that kept them from ravaging an enemy's Province. But at the last moment, the Crane Clan sought alliances among the Clans, and it seemed their action might prove successful. That was when the Crab Clan made its move into Crane territory, but they were unsuccessful, finding themselves blocked by the battle wisdom of Daidoji Uji and the keen blade of Iaijutsu Master Toshimoko. The Phoenix Clan had an opportunity to attack then, with the defending armies all engaged to the south, the army led by Shiba Tsukune was unhindered in her path to the Fief of the Crane, but she showed great wisdom in her reluctance to attack. The Crane had won the day, and we allowed it to be so, for it is better that they win than the Crab. However, the Empire has been cut in half by the armies of Crab, prohibiting us from communicating with the other Clans. It seems their intent was not on victory, but in gaining superior position.
As for our own Clan, you will rejoice to hear that our armies were ever-present on the battlefield. We won many duels and our Champion was seen on the field for a time, slicing down Unicorn armies with his sorcery and steel. Also, a small band of samurai has been cut off from the major force by the Crab blockade. It is currently under the command of Mirumoto Hitomi, along with the ronin Akodo Toturi.
When we discover more news regarding the Empire, we shall let you know. In the meantime, keep your own ears and eyes open for news from other Clans.
The Dragon Clan sends you greetings, good ally, and wishes you well on all your journeys. These are dark times, and to make a journey across the once pleasant plains of Rokugan is now a perilous and possibly foolish act. Only the wise and the naive travel in darkness. We hope you are not naive.
We bring you news of the Empire, friend. We have taken a part in the recent battle between the six Clans, and there is much to tell and explain. At the surface, our actions may seem irrational, but as it is with our Clan, there are deep truths to be found under the dark clouds of mystery.
The battle was fierce, and there were many times when a victor could have been decided, but at a moment's notice, victory was snatched from his grasp. Seizing victory is much like fishing: you must learn to give a little on the line, lest the weight of your prize work against you.
Strangely enough, it was the Phoenix Clan who showed great wisdom in the final decisive action of the battle. There had been many opportunities for the Lion Clan to walk away with the victory, but it was always our samurai that kept them from ravaging an enemy's Province. But at the last moment, the Crane Clan sought alliances among the Clans, and it seemed their action might prove successful. That was when the Crab Clan made its move into Crane territory, but they were unsuccessful, finding themselves blocked by the battle wisdom of Daidoji Uji and the keen blade of Iaijutsu Master Toshimoko. The Phoenix Clan had an opportunity to attack then, with the defending armies all engaged to the south, the army led by Shiba Tsukune was unhindered in her path to the Fief of the Crane, but she showed great wisdom in her reluctance to attack. The Crane had won the day, and we allowed it to be so, for it is better that they win than the Crab. However, the Empire has been cut in half by the armies of Crab, prohibiting us from communicating with the other Clans. It seems their intent was not on victory, but in gaining superior position.
As for our own Clan, you will rejoice to hear that our armies were ever-present on the battlefield. We won many duels and our Champion was seen on the field for a time, slicing down Unicorn armies with his sorcery and steel. Also, a small band of samurai has been cut off from the major force by the Crab blockade. It is currently under the command of Mirumoto Hitomi, along with the ronin Akodo Toturi.
When we discover more news regarding the Empire, we shall let you know. In the meantime, keep your own ears and eyes open for news from other Clans.
Togashi Yoshi
My friend, victory is ours!
The Crab Clan has been forced from its invasion of the Crane Provinces and is even now retreating to the North. They have taken a defensive position just south of the lands of the Unicorn Clan and have remained there as if daring us to drive them away.
We have made a brief alliance with the Crane Clan, my friend, and it is all to our benefit. In doing so, we have placed them in a situation where they are dependent upon our protection, thus allowing us use of their vast wealth to feed and furnish our armies. As you know, the lands delegated to us by the divine wisdom of the Emperor have never provided to us the wealth the Crane Clan enjoys. However, now that we have built an alliance between our two Clans, the wealth we have long desired is available to us.
The victories that we gained in the battle have put us in a unique position. We now have the resources to move against the Crab Clan, thus ending the threat to the Throne and restoring the Emperor to his rightful strength. We know that the Kuni family has used some dark magic to sap our Emperor's strength, but with courage and swiftness, we can put an end to the villainous Hida Kisada's plans and bring glory back to the Hantei Family's name. And when the Emperor sees that it was the Lion and not the Crane that has done this, we shall stand alone at the Emperor's side.
You should know that the Kakita family already suspects our motivations for assisting them in the battle. Kakita Toshimoko came to us, looking for audience, telling us that the Emperor's new bride is responsible for the evil that is sweeping through our land. But we know otherwise. Our spies tell us that it is Doji Hoturi who is allying himself with Bayushi Kachiko, and since Toshimoko was Lord Doji's sensei, we can only cast suspicion upon him as well. In short, trust not the Crane Clan. They have led the Empire into this darkness, and we shall be the ones who lead the Empire into a new dawn.
Also, during the battle, a young samurai-maiden from the Phoenix Clan struck down one of our shugenja. A strike against a Lion is a strike against the Emperor. Her name is Shiba Tsukune. Remember that name, my friend. Remember it well.
The times seem dark, but things are not as bleak as they seem. Stay true to our destiny - the protection of the Emperor - and the dawn will arise soon enough.
The Crab Clan has been forced from its invasion of the Crane Provinces and is even now retreating to the North. They have taken a defensive position just south of the lands of the Unicorn Clan and have remained there as if daring us to drive them away.
We have made a brief alliance with the Crane Clan, my friend, and it is all to our benefit. In doing so, we have placed them in a situation where they are dependent upon our protection, thus allowing us use of their vast wealth to feed and furnish our armies. As you know, the lands delegated to us by the divine wisdom of the Emperor have never provided to us the wealth the Crane Clan enjoys. However, now that we have built an alliance between our two Clans, the wealth we have long desired is available to us.
The victories that we gained in the battle have put us in a unique position. We now have the resources to move against the Crab Clan, thus ending the threat to the Throne and restoring the Emperor to his rightful strength. We know that the Kuni family has used some dark magic to sap our Emperor's strength, but with courage and swiftness, we can put an end to the villainous Hida Kisada's plans and bring glory back to the Hantei Family's name. And when the Emperor sees that it was the Lion and not the Crane that has done this, we shall stand alone at the Emperor's side.
You should know that the Kakita family already suspects our motivations for assisting them in the battle. Kakita Toshimoko came to us, looking for audience, telling us that the Emperor's new bride is responsible for the evil that is sweeping through our land. But we know otherwise. Our spies tell us that it is Doji Hoturi who is allying himself with Bayushi Kachiko, and since Toshimoko was Lord Doji's sensei, we can only cast suspicion upon him as well. In short, trust not the Crane Clan. They have led the Empire into this darkness, and we shall be the ones who lead the Empire into a new dawn.
Also, during the battle, a young samurai-maiden from the Phoenix Clan struck down one of our shugenja. A strike against a Lion is a strike against the Emperor. Her name is Shiba Tsukune. Remember that name, my friend. Remember it well.
The times seem dark, but things are not as bleak as they seem. Stay true to our destiny - the protection of the Emperor - and the dawn will arise soon enough.
Matsu Tsuko
My Daughter,
We are deep into Rokugan territory now, and there is no turning back. We have learned much from the young samurai Daini, and he has learned much from us. His courage and devotion to his Lord Toturi is admirable. We have tried to meet up with this man we have heard so very much of, but we have been cut off by an army of Shadowlands creatures. The zombies and skeletons have been animated by magics we do not understand, but Daini says that he is very familiar with them. He said that he also recognized the man who was leading the army and called him "Doji Hoturi." His eyes were filled with surprise and disbelief when he saw him in his gleaming white armor. He said that he saw Lord Doji delivered to Toturi by a masked ronin. He was a broken man who would not be able to ride in the saddle for weeks, and yet, there he was, leading an army and burning down villages as he went. "That cannot be Lord Hoturi," he said, "It cannot be him!" I told him, "And yet, there he is." These humans are so easy to disbelieve what is obvious.
We have clashed with the Crane Lord on many occasions, and whenever we gain the upper hand, he retreats. We followed him for days, engaging his army and then chasing him across the fields of Rokugan. Unfortunately, we did not see the truth until it was too late. The Crane Lord was leading us into an ambush with another Shadowlands army, this one led by what Daini called a "shugenja." The shugenja was as twisted and tainted as the dead men he led against us, and it was only the courage of our bushi, our Champion Qamar and the brave Daini that delivered us from doom. Our retreat led us into a patrol of Unicorn Clan samurai. Daini hailed them and they rode closer to investigate. Yes, my daughter, they too ride the beasts called "horses." I still remember Daini's horse being so frightened when he first arrived at our temple, and the Unicorn horses were the same. They were disturbed by our presence which made the Unicorns look at us with suspicious eyes. They told us we could accompany them back to the Unicorn provinces, but when we mentioned that we were searching for Lord Toturi, their hospitality quickly changed and they told us that we were not welcome on Unicorn land. They rode off and we were left alone once again.
Daini says that we must find Toturi. I am reluctant to agree. While I have been greatly impressed with his courage and sincerity, I have told him that I will take a small entourage to the Imperial Palace to speak directly to the Emperor himself. If he cannot convince the Clans to unite, then perhaps we can.
We are deep into Rokugan territory now, and there is no turning back. We have learned much from the young samurai Daini, and he has learned much from us. His courage and devotion to his Lord Toturi is admirable. We have tried to meet up with this man we have heard so very much of, but we have been cut off by an army of Shadowlands creatures. The zombies and skeletons have been animated by magics we do not understand, but Daini says that he is very familiar with them. He said that he also recognized the man who was leading the army and called him "Doji Hoturi." His eyes were filled with surprise and disbelief when he saw him in his gleaming white armor. He said that he saw Lord Doji delivered to Toturi by a masked ronin. He was a broken man who would not be able to ride in the saddle for weeks, and yet, there he was, leading an army and burning down villages as he went. "That cannot be Lord Hoturi," he said, "It cannot be him!" I told him, "And yet, there he is." These humans are so easy to disbelieve what is obvious.
We have clashed with the Crane Lord on many occasions, and whenever we gain the upper hand, he retreats. We followed him for days, engaging his army and then chasing him across the fields of Rokugan. Unfortunately, we did not see the truth until it was too late. The Crane Lord was leading us into an ambush with another Shadowlands army, this one led by what Daini called a "shugenja." The shugenja was as twisted and tainted as the dead men he led against us, and it was only the courage of our bushi, our Champion Qamar and the brave Daini that delivered us from doom. Our retreat led us into a patrol of Unicorn Clan samurai. Daini hailed them and they rode closer to investigate. Yes, my daughter, they too ride the beasts called "horses." I still remember Daini's horse being so frightened when he first arrived at our temple, and the Unicorn horses were the same. They were disturbed by our presence which made the Unicorns look at us with suspicious eyes. They told us we could accompany them back to the Unicorn provinces, but when we mentioned that we were searching for Lord Toturi, their hospitality quickly changed and they told us that we were not welcome on Unicorn land. They rode off and we were left alone once again.
Daini says that we must find Toturi. I am reluctant to agree. While I have been greatly impressed with his courage and sincerity, I have told him that I will take a small entourage to the Imperial Palace to speak directly to the Emperor himself. If he cannot convince the Clans to unite, then perhaps we can.
Dashmar
May the Seven Fortunes be with you this day.
Our trusted ally, much has occurred since last we spoke, and our Clan is in the middle of all of it. The Crab Clan has turned its back on the Shadowlands; this much you already know, but there is more to learn. The Crab armies moved into the lands of the Kakita family, thus threatening the holdings of the Crane Clan. Immediately, we were contacted by Doji Yosai for assistance.
Although our armies are not as strong as the Lion or the Dragon, we sent our force to aid the Crane Clan. An unexpected arrival was that of the Lion Clan. All three armies hesitated, unsure as to which side they would join. In the initial attack, the Lion Clan joined the Crab Clan, but their first assault was unsuccessful. The result: our samurai maiden Shiba Tsukune led a number of our samurai against the attacking Lion force. Apparently, they underestimated our military might because they allowed a shugenja to lead bushi against one of our own samurai. Needless to say, Lady Tsukune was insulted by the action, challenged the shugenja to a duel, and brought his head back to the courts of the Phoenix.
Beware of the Lion, my ally. Our blood is now their chief concern.
It was our armies that kept the others from attacking the Crane provinces, but it was the Dragon that lead the counterattack. It was at that time the Crane and Lion agreed to a truce and both forces struck the Crab army from behind, forcing them to withdraw to neutral lands just south of the provinces of the Unicorn. Unfortunately, this has cut off communication between the Unicorn and the rest of the Clans, and we cannot send or receive messages from the Shinjo family.
As for our own Clan, I must be the bearer of bad news. Isawa Tadaka, the Master of Earth, is missing. We sent him on a secret mission to the Unicorn Clan, and he has not yet returned. We must discover his whereabouts immediately.
There is little other news other than rumor and gossip. It has been said that many of the Clans have turned against the Emperor. Believe nothing until you see it, my friend. Wisdom does not arrive as whispers on the wind. If a man needs whisper what he says, it is nothing you need to listen to.
May the strength and perseverance of the mountains be with you in these dark times,
Our trusted ally, much has occurred since last we spoke, and our Clan is in the middle of all of it. The Crab Clan has turned its back on the Shadowlands; this much you already know, but there is more to learn. The Crab armies moved into the lands of the Kakita family, thus threatening the holdings of the Crane Clan. Immediately, we were contacted by Doji Yosai for assistance.
Although our armies are not as strong as the Lion or the Dragon, we sent our force to aid the Crane Clan. An unexpected arrival was that of the Lion Clan. All three armies hesitated, unsure as to which side they would join. In the initial attack, the Lion Clan joined the Crab Clan, but their first assault was unsuccessful. The result: our samurai maiden Shiba Tsukune led a number of our samurai against the attacking Lion force. Apparently, they underestimated our military might because they allowed a shugenja to lead bushi against one of our own samurai. Needless to say, Lady Tsukune was insulted by the action, challenged the shugenja to a duel, and brought his head back to the courts of the Phoenix.
Beware of the Lion, my ally. Our blood is now their chief concern.
It was our armies that kept the others from attacking the Crane provinces, but it was the Dragon that lead the counterattack. It was at that time the Crane and Lion agreed to a truce and both forces struck the Crab army from behind, forcing them to withdraw to neutral lands just south of the provinces of the Unicorn. Unfortunately, this has cut off communication between the Unicorn and the rest of the Clans, and we cannot send or receive messages from the Shinjo family.
As for our own Clan, I must be the bearer of bad news. Isawa Tadaka, the Master of Earth, is missing. We sent him on a secret mission to the Unicorn Clan, and he has not yet returned. We must discover his whereabouts immediately.
There is little other news other than rumor and gossip. It has been said that many of the Clans have turned against the Emperor. Believe nothing until you see it, my friend. Wisdom does not arrive as whispers on the wind. If a man needs whisper what he says, it is nothing you need to listen to.
May the strength and perseverance of the mountains be with you in these dark times,
Shiba Ujimitsu
I have taken this moment to tell you the things that others do not know. You have already heard of the Fall of Kakita Castle in the provinces of the Crane, and how the battle was turned by the Crane's own Champion leading an army of dead men against his own family, but what you have not heard is the truth.
That man is not Doji Hoturi.
I have recently spoken with Togashi Yokune, and he has assured me it was the Lady Scorpion who was behind it all. She used the ancient Egg of P'an Ku to create a duplicate of Lord Hoturi and kidnapped the Crane Lord, holding him captive in the Imperial Palace. Only recently was he freed by a young ronin named Akiyosho who was acting under Lord Yokune's orders. Let us make no mistake, it is the Lady Scorpion who now rules the Palace. She has made dark alliances, my friend, and a darker time than today is nearly upon us. We must make certain that all is prepared.
The Battle for Baiden Pass is over, and we have accomplished what must be done there. The Crab retreated from Kakita Castle to the Crossroads of the Empire, and would have cut us off from the other Clans if it were not for the noble Shiba Tsukune who led our army against them. Once again, her courage and forethought were vital to our success. Pray for her, that she may continue to lead our army to victory. The Unicorn now hold the Pass, and they have assured me that we shall find save passage there.
There is no word from Isawa Tadaka on his journey to the Shadowlands. When we learned of the opening of the First Scroll -- but then, you have not heard of this news, have you? Forgive me, my friend, but there is much I cannot say just yet. I can only tell you this: Long ago, an evil power was destroyed by our Master Shinsei, and twelve Black Scrolls were the instruments of his destruction. It was the duty of the Scorpion Clan to hide the Scrolls so they may never be found, but it appears that the first guardian, a Scorpion shugenja named Yugo Junzo, has opened the First Scroll. I can tell you now more, but we have sent the Master of Earth to investigate the matter, and he has not returned. We will keep you notified if the situation changes.
That man is not Doji Hoturi.
I have recently spoken with Togashi Yokune, and he has assured me it was the Lady Scorpion who was behind it all. She used the ancient Egg of P'an Ku to create a duplicate of Lord Hoturi and kidnapped the Crane Lord, holding him captive in the Imperial Palace. Only recently was he freed by a young ronin named Akiyosho who was acting under Lord Yokune's orders. Let us make no mistake, it is the Lady Scorpion who now rules the Palace. She has made dark alliances, my friend, and a darker time than today is nearly upon us. We must make certain that all is prepared.
The Battle for Baiden Pass is over, and we have accomplished what must be done there. The Crab retreated from Kakita Castle to the Crossroads of the Empire, and would have cut us off from the other Clans if it were not for the noble Shiba Tsukune who led our army against them. Once again, her courage and forethought were vital to our success. Pray for her, that she may continue to lead our army to victory. The Unicorn now hold the Pass, and they have assured me that we shall find save passage there.
There is no word from Isawa Tadaka on his journey to the Shadowlands. When we learned of the opening of the First Scroll -- but then, you have not heard of this news, have you? Forgive me, my friend, but there is much I cannot say just yet. I can only tell you this: Long ago, an evil power was destroyed by our Master Shinsei, and twelve Black Scrolls were the instruments of his destruction. It was the duty of the Scorpion Clan to hide the Scrolls so they may never be found, but it appears that the first guardian, a Scorpion shugenja named Yugo Junzo, has opened the First Scroll. I can tell you now more, but we have sent the Master of Earth to investigate the matter, and he has not returned. We will keep you notified if the situation changes.
Shiba Ujimitsu
My best beloved servant,
Much has happened in the two years since our ancestral sword was broken and our Champion was killed on the doorstep of our burning, crumbling home. Since my marriage to the Emperor, I have grown to love him for his wisdom and his sense of justice and mercy. Of course, I have had to accomplish much in the Emperor's house, for there was not a single soul that trusted me. And when the Emperor first fell under the influence of the plague, the Imperial surgeon believed that it was I who was responsible. Even though the good doctor could find no evidence of poison, I was still held under a steady eye of suspicion. And when I foiled the assassination attempt on his life - taking the blade for the young Hantei - the shadow of doubt that was cast over my devotion dwindled significantly.
Now I am the voice of the Emperor. Since he has contracted the plague, even the shugenja are fearful to approach him. Only I have the courage to wipe his brow with a cool cloth, to administer to him the medicine that he needs, and to hear his whispered words. Some feel that our Emperor is unwise to send home the ambassadors of the Clans, but there is wisdom in his actions; it is just that we are not wise enough to see it. Also, he has wisely chosen to remain neutral in the recent conflict between the Clans, preferring to see which families will be strong enough to remain when the dust settles.
I have had many visitors since the Emperor has given me charge to direct the Court. The head of each of the families came to me to ask that their ambassador be allowed to return to the Court, and while it was a great pleasure to entertain each of them, I refused their offers. We must keep the Clans from the Emperor, for if only one of them contracts this deadly disease, then the entire Clan will be infected as well. I am certain you can see the wisdom in my decision.
You will also be curious to know of the recent conflict involving the Crab army invading the castle of the Kakita family. When "The Great Bear" Lord Hida Kisada came to me to ask that his ambassador be returned to the Court, I had mentioned to him that I was disappointed that he had neglected his duty to guard the walls that separate Rokugan from the Shadowlands. I also pointed out to him how vulnerable the lands of the Kakita family were to invasion, should the Shadowlands chose to move against the Crane Clan. I also pointed out to him that if an army set itself on the crossroads just south of the Unicorn ancestral lands, that the southern and northern Clans would be isolated from each other. Unfortunately, Lord Hida saw this and has used it to his advantage.
Although his sons' armies (Sukune and Yakamo) were successful in capturing the Kakita family castle, they were unsuccessful in holding it. A brief alliance with the Lion Clan allowed them to wound the Crane, but the Phoenix and Unicorn armies were powerful enough to keep Lord Hida from clipping the Crane's wings. The Kakita family castle has been burned to the ground, much like - dare I say - the way our own was burned to the ground by the Crane Champion Doji Hoturi two years ago. A Lion shugenja was also killed by a Phoenix samurai-maiden, although I have not been able to make certain of her name.
With the Clans moving against each other, we have much to fear, my beloved servant. If they continue to battle with each other, we will certainly be put into a compromising position. One by one, the Clans will fall until there is only a single Clan remaining. The others will be too weak to stop the victor, and that victor will soon turn his greedy eyes toward the Emerald Throne. But remember, my servant, that it is not always he who sits in the Throne who has the power.
Sometimes, it is the one who stands behind it.
Much has happened in the two years since our ancestral sword was broken and our Champion was killed on the doorstep of our burning, crumbling home. Since my marriage to the Emperor, I have grown to love him for his wisdom and his sense of justice and mercy. Of course, I have had to accomplish much in the Emperor's house, for there was not a single soul that trusted me. And when the Emperor first fell under the influence of the plague, the Imperial surgeon believed that it was I who was responsible. Even though the good doctor could find no evidence of poison, I was still held under a steady eye of suspicion. And when I foiled the assassination attempt on his life - taking the blade for the young Hantei - the shadow of doubt that was cast over my devotion dwindled significantly.
Now I am the voice of the Emperor. Since he has contracted the plague, even the shugenja are fearful to approach him. Only I have the courage to wipe his brow with a cool cloth, to administer to him the medicine that he needs, and to hear his whispered words. Some feel that our Emperor is unwise to send home the ambassadors of the Clans, but there is wisdom in his actions; it is just that we are not wise enough to see it. Also, he has wisely chosen to remain neutral in the recent conflict between the Clans, preferring to see which families will be strong enough to remain when the dust settles.
I have had many visitors since the Emperor has given me charge to direct the Court. The head of each of the families came to me to ask that their ambassador be allowed to return to the Court, and while it was a great pleasure to entertain each of them, I refused their offers. We must keep the Clans from the Emperor, for if only one of them contracts this deadly disease, then the entire Clan will be infected as well. I am certain you can see the wisdom in my decision.
You will also be curious to know of the recent conflict involving the Crab army invading the castle of the Kakita family. When "The Great Bear" Lord Hida Kisada came to me to ask that his ambassador be returned to the Court, I had mentioned to him that I was disappointed that he had neglected his duty to guard the walls that separate Rokugan from the Shadowlands. I also pointed out to him how vulnerable the lands of the Kakita family were to invasion, should the Shadowlands chose to move against the Crane Clan. I also pointed out to him that if an army set itself on the crossroads just south of the Unicorn ancestral lands, that the southern and northern Clans would be isolated from each other. Unfortunately, Lord Hida saw this and has used it to his advantage.
Although his sons' armies (Sukune and Yakamo) were successful in capturing the Kakita family castle, they were unsuccessful in holding it. A brief alliance with the Lion Clan allowed them to wound the Crane, but the Phoenix and Unicorn armies were powerful enough to keep Lord Hida from clipping the Crane's wings. The Kakita family castle has been burned to the ground, much like - dare I say - the way our own was burned to the ground by the Crane Champion Doji Hoturi two years ago. A Lion shugenja was also killed by a Phoenix samurai-maiden, although I have not been able to make certain of her name.
With the Clans moving against each other, we have much to fear, my beloved servant. If they continue to battle with each other, we will certainly be put into a compromising position. One by one, the Clans will fall until there is only a single Clan remaining. The others will be too weak to stop the victor, and that victor will soon turn his greedy eyes toward the Emerald Throne. But remember, my servant, that it is not always he who sits in the Throne who has the power.
Sometimes, it is the one who stands behind it.
Bayushi Kachiko
My distant friend -
It has been a long time since we have had a chance to speak, and much of it has to do with the Crab army positioned directly to the south of our Provinces. It is a massive army, and even with the swiftness of our steeds, we are unable to move against it.
For now.
However, if you are reading this letter, it means that our spies were successful in their task and we have found a means of moving our cavalry out of our Provinces and into the battlefield. Soon, we shall be moving against this wall before us from its backside. A Crab may have a powerful shell, but if you turn it onto its back, you will find that it has a tender belly that bleeds.
We have heard talk of the engagement between the Crab army and the Crane army and how the Lions and Phoenix came to the Crane's aid. We have also heard that an army led by Lord Yasamura came to the assistance of the Crane. It is good that the Clans are working together in this hour of darkness, and it is also good that our presence was there to show support for our allies. However, we have also learned to never trust the Crane or Lion. They have always worked to their own interest, constantly competing for the Emperor's favor. We should warn the Phoenix against further actions lest they find themselves on the wrong end of a political bargain.
I should also tell you of our lost Unicorns. As I mentioned before, a single unit of cavalry led by Lord Yasamura became separated from our Stronghold when the Crab army retreated. We sent them down into the battle to observe and support, but the retreat of the Crab (something we did not expect) cut them off. We have heard they have joined with Akodo Toturi and his wandering band of samurai and ronin, but that is only speculation. Our spies have also told us that they have seen the Phoenix Master of Earth in the camp of an army of walking dead men, but I am not certain if that report is to be trusted.
With the Crab armies positioned just to our south and the returning Phoenix armies approaching our borders, perhaps it is time we sought allies among the serpent folk our ancestors encountered during their journey to Rokugan. Or perhaps even turning to the Phoenix Clan would provide us with allies. We have never had reason to mistrust the Shiba family, and now with the Shadowlands moving further north every day, we need to discover a means to halt the approaching darkness quickly.
Speed has always been our greatest strength, but now it would appear that even the speed of the wind may not save us if we cannot break through the rock hard carapace of the Crab.
It has been a long time since we have had a chance to speak, and much of it has to do with the Crab army positioned directly to the south of our Provinces. It is a massive army, and even with the swiftness of our steeds, we are unable to move against it.
For now.
However, if you are reading this letter, it means that our spies were successful in their task and we have found a means of moving our cavalry out of our Provinces and into the battlefield. Soon, we shall be moving against this wall before us from its backside. A Crab may have a powerful shell, but if you turn it onto its back, you will find that it has a tender belly that bleeds.
We have heard talk of the engagement between the Crab army and the Crane army and how the Lions and Phoenix came to the Crane's aid. We have also heard that an army led by Lord Yasamura came to the assistance of the Crane. It is good that the Clans are working together in this hour of darkness, and it is also good that our presence was there to show support for our allies. However, we have also learned to never trust the Crane or Lion. They have always worked to their own interest, constantly competing for the Emperor's favor. We should warn the Phoenix against further actions lest they find themselves on the wrong end of a political bargain.
I should also tell you of our lost Unicorns. As I mentioned before, a single unit of cavalry led by Lord Yasamura became separated from our Stronghold when the Crab army retreated. We sent them down into the battle to observe and support, but the retreat of the Crab (something we did not expect) cut them off. We have heard they have joined with Akodo Toturi and his wandering band of samurai and ronin, but that is only speculation. Our spies have also told us that they have seen the Phoenix Master of Earth in the camp of an army of walking dead men, but I am not certain if that report is to be trusted.
With the Crab armies positioned just to our south and the returning Phoenix armies approaching our borders, perhaps it is time we sought allies among the serpent folk our ancestors encountered during their journey to Rokugan. Or perhaps even turning to the Phoenix Clan would provide us with allies. We have never had reason to mistrust the Shiba family, and now with the Shadowlands moving further north every day, we need to discover a means to halt the approaching darkness quickly.
Speed has always been our greatest strength, but now it would appear that even the speed of the wind may not save us if we cannot break through the rock hard carapace of the Crab.
Shinjo Yokatsu
There is a need for samurai in our land. The unspeakable nightmares of the Shadowlands have begun to creep across the ancient walls that once separated their land from ours; the shadows move with the silhouettes of ninja; and there are even whispers that the Scorpion Clan - whom we thought were destroyed by the Emperor - have returned for revenge. Even the mysterious Naga have awakened, all but silent to their motives in this conflict. As you know, my family has always been associated with keeping peace in the Empire, but not even my family will protect you in this time of conflict. It is time for you to make a decision: to stand alone as a ronin, or to join a Clan.
If you take an oath of fealty, you will be able to influence Clan decisions, have information regarding the activities of your Clan, and gain battle information gathered from across the Empire to let you know if your Clan is gaining or losing ground in the war. But chose wisely! Already there are rumors running about the Empire that one of the Champions is an imposter... And as you ponder whether you should remain neutral in this conflict (as a "ronin."), or if join one of the Clans, let me pass on some recent accounts of the battle. One should always make educated decisions, after all...
In the first great battle of the war, it was the Crab Clan who positioned themselves outside of the Crane Clan lands. They moved swiftly, capturing one of the Kakita family castles, but the army (commanded by Hida Sukune) spread themselves too thin: they did not have enough samurai to cover the ground they had captured. The Crane Clan immediately sought assistance from the other Clans. The Phoenix are always reluctant to join in battles, and the rivalry between the Crane and the Lion is legendary. However, the Unicorn Clan swiftly came to the Crane's assistance as did another army, and it was a very strange army indeed. Apparently, the Dragon Clan has gained the assistance of Akodo Toturi, once the proud Champion of the Lion Clan. Immediately, the Lion Clan responded by coming to the assistance of Hida Sukune. It must have been a strange sight indeed to see Lion and Crab armies standing side by side.
The armies engaged - Crab and Lion on one side and Crane, Dragon and Unicorn on the other. Suddenly, the sound of thunder was heard over the hills, signaling the arrival of the Phoenix Clan. As the army approached - led by the young samurai-maiden Shiba Tsukune - none were certain as to which side she had been commanded to join. The Lion Clan would not wait to find out. A Lion shugenja leading a small army was sent to meet the Phoenix samurai-maiden. I cannot speak of facts, but apparently words were exchanged between the two and before any other words could be spoken, the Lion shugenja's blood was in the sand and his head was carried back as a trophy to the houses of the Phoenix as Lady Shiba joined her army on the side of the Crane.
Now the Crab army looked at facing the armies of five Clans. The Crab army retreated from the lands of the Kakita family, but the damage has already been done. As Sukune retreated, his brother Yakamo advanced. Together, they cut off the roads that lead to the northern parts of the Empire. Now the southern Clans - Lion and Crane - have been cut off from the Northern Clans - Dragon Unicorn and Phoenix. Apparently, their strategy had been to measure the strength of the opposing armies and position their own to cut off communication between the Clans. This strategy is brilliant; and although Hida Kisada is a masterful tactician, I fear there may be a voice in his ear, a voice that is sweet as honey and as venomous as poison. We must be wary, you and I. I will prepare my family for the inevitable. You must make your decision: to join a Clan or to stand alone. The choice is yours. If you decide to join with one of the Clans, contact me here at the Imperial court, and I will arrange for you to swear fealty to that clan's ambassadors.
May the gods of fortune be with you.
If you take an oath of fealty, you will be able to influence Clan decisions, have information regarding the activities of your Clan, and gain battle information gathered from across the Empire to let you know if your Clan is gaining or losing ground in the war. But chose wisely! Already there are rumors running about the Empire that one of the Champions is an imposter... And as you ponder whether you should remain neutral in this conflict (as a "ronin."), or if join one of the Clans, let me pass on some recent accounts of the battle. One should always make educated decisions, after all...
In the first great battle of the war, it was the Crab Clan who positioned themselves outside of the Crane Clan lands. They moved swiftly, capturing one of the Kakita family castles, but the army (commanded by Hida Sukune) spread themselves too thin: they did not have enough samurai to cover the ground they had captured. The Crane Clan immediately sought assistance from the other Clans. The Phoenix are always reluctant to join in battles, and the rivalry between the Crane and the Lion is legendary. However, the Unicorn Clan swiftly came to the Crane's assistance as did another army, and it was a very strange army indeed. Apparently, the Dragon Clan has gained the assistance of Akodo Toturi, once the proud Champion of the Lion Clan. Immediately, the Lion Clan responded by coming to the assistance of Hida Sukune. It must have been a strange sight indeed to see Lion and Crab armies standing side by side.
The armies engaged - Crab and Lion on one side and Crane, Dragon and Unicorn on the other. Suddenly, the sound of thunder was heard over the hills, signaling the arrival of the Phoenix Clan. As the army approached - led by the young samurai-maiden Shiba Tsukune - none were certain as to which side she had been commanded to join. The Lion Clan would not wait to find out. A Lion shugenja leading a small army was sent to meet the Phoenix samurai-maiden. I cannot speak of facts, but apparently words were exchanged between the two and before any other words could be spoken, the Lion shugenja's blood was in the sand and his head was carried back as a trophy to the houses of the Phoenix as Lady Shiba joined her army on the side of the Crane.
Now the Crab army looked at facing the armies of five Clans. The Crab army retreated from the lands of the Kakita family, but the damage has already been done. As Sukune retreated, his brother Yakamo advanced. Together, they cut off the roads that lead to the northern parts of the Empire. Now the southern Clans - Lion and Crane - have been cut off from the Northern Clans - Dragon Unicorn and Phoenix. Apparently, their strategy had been to measure the strength of the opposing armies and position their own to cut off communication between the Clans. This strategy is brilliant; and although Hida Kisada is a masterful tactician, I fear there may be a voice in his ear, a voice that is sweet as honey and as venomous as poison. We must be wary, you and I. I will prepare my family for the inevitable. You must make your decision: to join a Clan or to stand alone. The choice is yours. If you decide to join with one of the Clans, contact me here at the Imperial court, and I will arrange for you to swear fealty to that clan's ambassadors.
May the gods of fortune be with you.
Miya Yoto
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