Naga Letter - #2
Dearest Cousin,
It has been a long journey, but we finally arrived in the capital of Rokugan. Our guide, the young Mirumoto Daini, has never visited here either, and so I find my own enthusiasm reflected in his eyes. But something disturbs me greatly, for I see my own hesitation there as well. When we first arrived, we were not greeted by the Emperor, but by his bride, the Lady Bayushi. She was quite charming, although evasive. She explained that the Emperor was very ill, and could not be seen, for the illness could be passed on to others. I expressed my deepest sympathies to her, and I think I saw her grin, but I cannot be certain.
There is much news of the Empire that I must impart to you, cousin. Everything is as we feared. Instead of acknowledging the imminent danger of the darklands, they have decided to fight amongst each other, thus allowing the creatures of that place to organize. Because I cannot speak to the Emperor (who seems to be incapable of assissting us, anyway), I shall address each of these family patriarchs individually, expressing to them our concerns. These "Clans" must listen to reason. If they do not, both of our civilizations will be lost.
We spent only a few days in the palace before we acted upon my decision to meet with the other Clans. Daini has told me that he is uncertain whether we shall be able to meet up with his Lord Akodo Toturi. Since the Crab Clan has attacked and destroyed Kakita Palace, their army has been forced back to Beiden Pass, the crossroads of the Empire. The battle there is desperate, with nearly all of the Clans struggling to gain access to the all-important crossroads.Whoever gains the territory will gain a significant tactical advantage. Currently, it is Hida Yakamo and his brother Sukune who control the pass, but I understand the Phoenix samurai-maiden Shiba Tsukune has proven to be a mighty opponent.
There is more news, my cousin. One of the Champions has proven to be a traitor. The Crane Clan Champion, Doji Hoturi has been seen leading an army of dead men across the Empire, striking down temples and villages wherever he goes. It is obvious that he has been corrupted by the power of the darkland, and he must be stopped at all costs.
So much to say, and so little time. Already, we are overlooking the palace of the Matsu family. Daini tells me their champion, Matsu Tsuko, is a mighty warrior. I only hope that he also has a wise heart in his chest.
Until Peace Reigns, Dashmar