Mantis Letter - #11

Fellow Tsuruchi,

Be on your guard.

Events taking place within the inner circle of Yoritomo Kitao's advisors may put those of us abroad in the Empire in jeopardy. She has formed an alliance that, while it may bring us great fortune, could also make us many enemies. We Tsuruchi are the wanderers of the Mantis, the hunters who fill the coffers of the clan.

Of course, we who are most at risk are the last to be consulted about decisions. However, I would not presume to question Kitao-sama's leadership ability. I am certain that this alliance is in the best interest of the clan, just as I am certain that she is our true and legitimate Champion.

Even yet, be on your guard.

I remember well my days as a young man, when it was I who wandered the Empire for the glory of the Wasp Clan. I was honored to serve Tsuruchi himself, the man whose name we share. Tsuruchi was a man of honor, although it was not the honor that the other Great Clans constantly proclaim. He swore an oath to Yoritomo, one that we have followed after his passing. I look upon what has become of Yoritomo's clan and wonder what course my master would have taken now.

Destroy this message once you have read it.

Tsuruchi Ichiro
Lord of Kyuden Ashinagabachi

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