Unicorn Clan Letter - #19

Chaozhu,

It saddened me to receive your recent letter, my brother. While I am glad to hear that all is well in our family lands, I hoped that time would dull the edge of your anger toward me. I see that is not the case.

There are only so many ways that we can have this discussion, Chaozhu. I did not ask to be chosen by the Khan to lead his forces, but I will not deny him. To do so would bring incredible dishonor to our parents and our entire family. You know that I would rather have no other general at my side but you. You refused to serve under me. What was the phrase you used? I believe it was "a useless, pointless assignment serving only to ease your guilty conscience." How easily you dismiss your own abilities.

We each have a duty to the Unicorn Clan and to our Khan. I did not have the luxury of choice, but if I had, I do not think I would have chosen differently. I am proud to ride at the forefront of the Junghar, and I do not envy the task you must perform. We are men of action, Chaozhu, and we both take after our father. Would I resent you if our roles were reversed? I cannot know the answer to that question, but I would hope that I would conduct myself with more honor than you have. Where is the older brother I have idolized all my life? Where is the honorable warrior that I trained with throughout my youth? Where is the man I respect more than any save the Khan himself? I find no trace of that man in this letter.

I am my own man, and I make no apologies. Our parents might find some of my choices strange, but I do not regret them. I am certain that they would accept my courtship of Akasha sooner than your irrational, bitter cynicism. I pray that the Khan never learns of your shameful behavior, dear brother, for then I would no family left.

Moto Chen
Commander of the Junghar Army

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