Scorpion Clan Letter - #3
My best beloved one,
It is all I can do to keep the tears from falling as I write this to you. Despite the defeat of the Crane at Doji Castle, despite the trap that we have prepared for Toturi in the Lion territories, and despite the fact that we are only weeks from complete victory, I have found that many of my kinfolk have turned away from me and dedicated themselves to a mistress with a much deadlier appetite.
I speak, of course, of the Shadowlands.
I know, do not be deceived, I know the siren song that sings out from that dark land. I hear it as well as you do. Perhaps I even hear it clearer. Perhaps that is why I can keep myself focused on what must be done. Our revenge against the Clans is nearly complete, and yet, many of you are giving yourself over to the corruption that hopes to claim the Throne for itself. Look at the example it made out of Yogo Junzo. Do you think Junzo will be as giving as I if he claims the Throne? Do you think his rewards will be as sweet? Think well on what I have said. There are many who believe a woman has no right to be at the head of our Clan. They would rather allow a walking dead mockery dictate our destiny. Soon, you will have to make a choice. Yes, ours is a more difficult path, but when we reach the end of it, we will not be the same as those gibbering idiots that the Shadowlands has enslaved to its dark will.
Think well, my best beloved one. It was I who caused the downfall of Doji Hoturi. It was I who arranged the trap that awaits the fallen Lion. His greatest student - the raven-haired Tsamuri - shall be his downfall. It was I who will allow Hida Kisada to sail his barges into the royal harbor, and I will stand behind him as he sits on the Throne, my tender lips whispering into his old and vulnerable brain. The Great Bear has only one son left, and young Hitomi is ready to deal with him. I have prepared her - and equipped her - for the task. The Great Bear will be without an heir when this war is over, and where do you think his next heir will come from? Our revenge is nearly complete, my best beloved one. Do not be swayed by promises of power now. Be patient, as patient as only a Scorpion can be. It is only a matter of time now. When this war is finished, the Clans will be crushed, the Throne will be under our control, and revenge shall finally be ours.
Bayushi Kachiko