Ronin Letter - #8
Dearest Rezan-sama
The loss of Otosan Uchi grieves me greatly, as no doubt it grieves you. The city, once full of light and hope, now lies broken like a fallen samurai. The waters of Golden Sun Bay lap at the shores, but they cannot soothe the pain that the city has seen. The twin guardians of the city, Sunset Tower and the Brutal Flame, stand watch as always. They are no longer guardians, brave comrades in arms, but mourners weeping over the corpse of their beloved.
I know my words must seem coarse to you, a master in the arts of poetry and oratory. Your glib tongue has made you a legend in the courts, as had your swift sword and dashing smile. I hope that you remember me, for we met only twice. The first was at the last Winter Court, when you sang to me in the garden. The second was at the great marriage between the Ikoma and Shosuro houses, when I was allowed to honor your presence with a poem. Perhaps you remember.
My sweetest poet,
How your words woo my young heart.
A diamond you are.
I hope that these words bring you some joy; I know that your sorrow at the loss of Otosan Uchi must be greater even than my own, for your immortal spirit walked its streets in two separate ages. How strange and wonderful it must be to see what you have seen, to be able to imagine the verdant meadows of Yomi and the tragic battlefields of Toshigoku not just as myth or fable - but as earth that you have trod, lands that you have seen.
Which brings me to my point. You are a Hero of Rokugan, a bold warrior who has protected this Empire through countless ages. Otosan Uchi's light may have faded, but a new sun rises in Kyuden Seppun. The Sword, Toturi Tsudao, Empress Toturi the Second, now takes the Steel Throne in a glorious new capital. In her name, I call you to her service. I know that you have heard tales of her bravery, her honor, and her beauty.
She waits for you, Rezan-sama.
As do I.
Kiyomi