Unicorn Clan Letter - #6
My cousin,
There is little left to say and too much to do.
Out armies have finally arrived at Otosan Uchi. Even now, I can look up from my writing and see Doji Hoturi, Kitsu Motso and Hida Yakamo preparing for their initial assault. Yokatsu-sama stands south of us, preparing our infantry.
I have seen the armies of the Ronin, and not even their motley colors can compare with viewing our infantry for the first time. They are simple farmers, armed with farming tools. Two monks stand with Yokatsu. Together, they have turned this mass of simple farmers with simple tools into an army of fighting men.
Our cavalry, on the other hand, is as ready as always. My battle-maidens prepare with deep meditations. Soon, we will ride, and our steeds will be like fire as we charge down into the mass of marching dead men.
I will answer your question for I know it is in your mind. My wound is doing well. The spear-tip was removed by a Phoenix shugenja named Tadaka. He has much knowledge of the Shadowlands and its dark magic. The wound festerd for only a short while. His spells cured ne well. Moto Tsume and his brother will haunt the villages of our followers no longer.
Togashi Yokuni came to me last evening just after our armies arrived. I told him I did not believe any Unicorn had ever spoken to him before. He laughed under his masked helm, then lifted his hands and removed it.
"No," he said to me, "but I have spoken to a ki-rin."
When I saw what lay under his helm, I knew his words were true. I cannot tell you what happened then, but I can tell you that my destiny is clear to me now, as is the destiny of all our Clan.
A time of great trouble is almost over, but a time of greater trouble looms on the horizon. All depends on our actions. The fate of the Empire. The fate of all men and women. It is a burden I must bear, but I do not know if I am worthy to carry it.
When I told Yokuni that, he smiled and touched my shoulder.
"If you were not worthy, you would have not been chosen," he said to me.
Now I sit alone, waiting for the battle.
I watch as the other set their sould to rese, peaceful as the falling cherry blossoms. I think of the coming battle, and I can do is remember Yokuni's words.
"... you would not have been chosen."
May the Fortunes forgive me, but I wish it was another.
-- Kamoko