Lion Clan Letter - #18
Honored Uncle,
I have taken my place as the captain of the Deathless in the bay outside Otosan Uchi. It is strange to be in command of such a vessel, especially when my naval experience is so limited. The tales of my exploits fighting the Orochi on Yasuki Fumoki's island seem to have reached the men under my command, and the sailors are all too eager to serve under such a "distinguished" captain. I heard one of the men relaying to another the story of my journey to the Island of the Mist. I barely recognized the events he described. It seems the tale has grown with the telling. I do not have the heart to contradict the details they have added. The handful of Nezumi who remain with the crew only laugh.
A messenger arrived with your letter regarding my impending marriage. I must confess, I was at first excited by the notion, but my excitement faded when I discovered the identity of my betrothed. I will do my duty for my family and clan, uncle, as you know full well. I would perish before bringing dishonor to the Lion. I will serve as the liaison between our family and the Scorpion. I will do all that you ask of me, and more.
As I am already taking your valuable time with this letter, I would ask for but a single consideration in order to allow me to perform my duties on the Deathless. The ship is large, and I feel I may require a subordinate officer to aid me in command. While my crew is capable, they are inexperienced. The Nezumi sailors are quite talented, but I fear that Lion sailors would not respect a Ratling officer. In short, I require the assistance of Matsu Kenji as first mate. Of all the Lion I know, she is the only one who has experience on the sea, and she knows the Deathless well. With her aid, uncle, I could fulfill all the duties that have been set before me without fail. Together, we could bring much honor to the Lion.
Ikoma Otemi
Protector of Otosan Uchi