[Work in progress] Traduction des nouvelles d'AEG (listes)

[Soshi Yabu]

Voilà donc le topic pour mettre l'évolution du travail de traduction sur les nouvelles produites par AEG, dans le cadre du jcc L5R.

Je mettrai dans ce post un résumé des travaux en cours.
Sur le modèle suivant: Date de publication, titre, auteur, "état", et traducteurs
En gras, les traductions en cours


- 04/08/08_ Scenes form the Empire, VIII_ Brian Yoon
- 04/08/08_ Fiction week: Champions_ Shawn Carman
- 05/08/08_ Fiction week: Visitors_ Shawn Carman
- 06/08/08_ Fiction week: Into the mountains_ Shawn Carman
- 07/08/08_ Fiction week: Intervention_ Shawn Carman
- 08/08/08_ Fiction week: Heaven's net_ Nancy Sauer
- 22/08/08_ The Sun and Moon, part 2_ Shwan Carman
- 29/08/08_ The Heaven's will, part 1_ Shawn Carman
- 04/09/08_ The Heaven's will, part 2_ Shawn Carman
- 12/09/08_ War amid the shadows_ Brian Yoon
- 19/09/08_ Gifts_Rusty Priske
- 26/09/08_ All things have a cost_ Lucas Twyman
- 03/10/08_ Sun and Moon, part 3_ Nancy Sauer
- 10/10/08_ Sun and Moon, part 4_Shawn Carman
- 17/10/08_ The Heaven's Command_Brian Yoon
- 24/10/08_ Preparations, part 1_ Rusty Priske and Shawn Carman
- 31/10/08_ Preparations, part 2_ Lucas Twyman, Nancy Sauer, Brian Yoon, & Fred Wan
- 07/11/08_ Preparations, part 3_ Rusty Priske, Nancy Sauer, Lucas Twyman, & Fred Wan
- 14/11/08_ The Celestial Tournament_ Shawn Carman_ a mettre en ligne_ Yabu
- 17/11/08_ The conclusion part 1_ Shawn Carman_ relecture_ Yogo Kazu
- 18/11/08_ The conclusion part 2_ Shawn Carman_ relecture_ Soshi Yabu
- 19/11/08_ The conclusion, part 3_ Shawn Carman
- 20/11/08_ The conclusion, part 4_ Shawn Carman
- 28/11/08_ A new Empire, part 1_ Shawn Carman
- 06/12/08_ A new Empire, part 2_ Brian Yooke, Rusty Priske, Shawn Carman

[Soshi Yabu]

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[Soshi Yabu]

Colline Seppun.
Pendant près d’un millénaire, ce fut l’un des lieux les plus vénérés de tout l’Empire. L’ensemble des Clans Majeurs reconnaissait que c’était là que les Kami, fils et filles d’Amaterasu et d’Onnotangu, avaient pris place et s’étaient affrontés l’un contre l’autre afin de déterminer qui règnerait sur l’Empire. C’était un lieu sacré. Une terre sainte. Dans des circonstances normales, ils l’auraient évité, sentant qu’en foulant ce sol, ils auraient troublé sa gloire par leur présence indigne.
Plus aujourd’hui.
Une foule de samouraï attendait avec agitation autour de la Colline Seppun. Ils étaient des centaines, peut-être même des milliers. Les bannières de tous les Clans Majeurs flottaient fièrement, et même s’ils ne faisaient pas état de leur présence pour ne pas être accusés d’être présomptueux, de nombreux samouraï de Clans mineurs étaient là pour voir l’Histoire s’écrire sous leurs yeux. Etonnamment, incroyablement, l’endroit était presque silencieux. Les toux occasionnelles et les frottements permanents des vêtements des gens qui avançaient étaient tout ce qui brisait ce pur silence.
La Lune descendit rapidement vers l’horizon, laissant derrière elle une trainée argentée sur les lointaines montagnes de l’Ouest. Alors qu’elle allait plonger, de plus en plus proche de disparaître, les premiers rayons du Soleil apparurent par delà l’océan de l’Est, projetant sa lumière sur la Colline Seppun. Pendant un moment, la lumière des deux illumina le ciel.
Et à ce moment précis, ils arrivèrent.
La Voix du Soleil de Jade et Celle de la Lune d’Obsidienne prirent place sur une grande estrade qui, quelques instants auparavant, ne se trouvait pas là. Ils étudièrent la foule un instant, puis s’exprimèrent en un parfait unisson. « L’Empire s’est trouvé bien trop longtemps sans Empereur. Il est temps. »
Le Tournoi des Cieux avait commencé.

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L’une après l’autre, les délégations des Clans Majeurs firent un pas en avant afin d’être reconnus par les Voix des Cieux. Ceux venus simplement pour observer ne furent pas déçu, car de nombreux Champions de Clans étaient présents, ainsi que beaucoup de grand daimyo, de généraux ou de guerriers. C’était un moment extraordinaire, peut-être l’évènement de toute une vie, que tant d’hommes se retrouvent en un tel endroit, et plus encore que les Tournois d’Emeraude et Jade qui s’étaient tenus l’année précédente.
Lorsque tous furent reconnus, il sembla que les Voix se préparèrent à débuter le tournoi à proprement parler. « Mon Seigneur, ma Dame, » une voix s’éleva de manière inattendue. « Pardonnez ma témérité, mais il est un autre parti à reconnaître. » Une vague de murmures monta dans la foule, tandis que le Champion du Clan de la Licorne faisait un pas en avant, mais le silence revint presque immédiatement.
Le regard étrangement inhumain des deux Voix se posa sur le Khan. « Que voulez vous dire ? » demanda la Voix du Soleil.
Moto Chen s’agenouilla et plaça sa tête contre le sol. « Depuis des mois, la Licorne s’est alliée à un groupe d’honorables samouraï, ronin par naissance ou par les circonstances, qui ont travaillé sans repos pour le bien de l’Empire sans qu’il n’y ait d’Empereur qui puisse reconnaître ce qu’ils ont accompli. Ces vaillants guerriers ont voyagé jusqu’ici aujourd’hui, se tenant avec fierté parmi ceux qui n’hésiteraient pas à les blâmer simplement pour leur posture. Pour le Clan de la Licorne dans son intégralité, ces hommes et femmes ont gagné le droit d’êtres jugés sur le mérite de leurs actions. »
La Voix de la Lune fixa du regard le Khan. « Que voilà une déclaration hardie. »
« C’est vrai, » reconnut-il. « Et aujourd’hui la Mante se tient à nos côtés, alors qu’à une époque ils n’étaient que des samouraï de Clans mineurs, ou des ronin. L’Empereur Splendide Toturi Ier fut un ronin durant de longues années. Nous ne pouvons juste les juger là-dessus. Ils doivent être jugés pour leurs actions, non pour les circonstances de leur naissance.
Les Voix se turent quelques instants, comme s’ils dissertaient silencieusement entre eux. « Où sont ces hommes ? » demanda enfin l’un des deux.
Chen se releva et fit un geste vers la foule. Cinq hommes s’avancèrent, chacun vêtu d’étranges vêtements. « Nous sommes le Clan de l’Araignée, » dit le meneur d’une voix assurée.
« Peut-être, » dit la Voix de la Lune. « Et peut-être pas. »
« Montez, » dit la Voix du Soleil faisant signe aux hommes de grimper sur la colline. Les cinq hommes s’inclinèrent bas et firent ainsi qu’il leur avait demandé. Ils ne parlèrent pas, et une fois arrivés au sommet, ils s’inclinèrent sans pourtant poser genoux à terre. « Qui êtes vous ? »
« Je suis Daigotsu Usharo, » dit le leader, « anciennement Otomo Usharo. »
« Vous ne faites pas d’effort pour cacher votre véritable nature, » dit la Voix de la Lune. « Je trouve cela plaisant. »
« Nous assumons que notre véritable nature ne puisse vous être cachée, » dit Usharo catégoriquement. « La tromperie n’aurait que peu accompli. » « La franchise compense bien peu votre audace, » dit la Voix du Soleil. « De quel droit osez-vous montrer votre visage ici ? Et votre Seigneur ? Craint-il de montrer lui aussi son visage ? »
« Mon Seigneur pense que se présenter lui-même devant vous provoquerait l’ire des Clans. Ils ne peuvent tous être considérés comme respectant avec rigueur les principes de votre loi. Certain d’entre eux feraient peu de cas de leur piété et tenteraient de le détruire, malgré tout le bien qu’il pourrait faire. Votre tournoi serait perturbé. Ce n’est pas le souhait de Daigotsu-sama. »
La Voix de la Lune eut un léger sourire. « Et quel est le souhait de Daigotsu ? »
« Il est du désir de Daigotsu-sama que ce tournoi puisse être mené à bien, alors que le Tournoi des Kami ne l’avait pas été du fait de l’exclusion de Fu Leng. »
“Fu Leng n’a pas sa place dans les affaires Célestes,” dit la Voix du Soleil.
« Fu Leng est l’enfant du Soleil et de la Lune, » insista Usharo. « Des véritables Soleil et Lune. Nous sommes les seuls, l’Araignée, à le vénérer comme tous les mortels devraient le faire. Leur foi est incomplète, quand la nôtre est inébranlable. Notre droit à participer ne peut être remis en question. »
« Votre présomption est stupéfiante, » dit le Voix du Soleil. « Croyez-vous que vous pouvez dicter les termes de ce tournoi ? Le pensez-vous vraiment ? »
« Aucun d’eux ne porte la marque de Jigoku », dit soudain la Voix de la Lune. « Ils sont purs de toute influence extérieure. Leur loyauté, leur piété, est donnée librement, et non pas contrainte. »
La Voix du Soleil fronça les sourcils et regarda chacun d’entre eux. « C’est ce qu’il semble. »
« Si ce qu’ils prétendent est vrai, » poursuivit la Voix de la Lune, « alors il serait correct de leur permettre de participer. Ils sont les champions mortels d’une entité divine, quels que puissent être les désaccords de leur patron avec les Dragons Célestes. » Elle s’arrêta un moment. « Nous devons leur accorder le droit de concourir. »
La Voix du Soleil semblait bouillonner sur place. « Ainsi soit-il, » dit-il, d’une voix dont seule la providence de sa nature divine permit de ne pas montrer la rancœur qui s’y trouvait. « Sachez que si vous échouez aujourd’hui, votre secret sera exposé. Le jugement des hommes s’abattra sur vous aussi certainement que celui des Cieux tomberait sur eux. »
« Cela est juste, » répondit Usharo en s’inclinant. « Mes compagnons, Keigo, Sahara, Michio et Katsu combattront avec plaisir pour la gloire et l’honneur de Fu Leng et du Clan de l’Araignée.
« Où se trouve votre Seigneur ? » demanda la Voix de la Lune.
“Il est proche d’ici,” lui assure Usharo. « Il souhaite surveiller tout ce qu’il se passe, sans manquer de respect à votre tournoi en le perturbant. Daigotsu-sama verra et vivra tout à travers nos yeux. Il est un homme pieux et honorable, bien que cela ne soit peut-être pas à la manière de tous ceux assemblés ici.
« Clairement, » dit la Voix du Soleil.
« Prenez place, » dit la Voix de la Lune, dont la voix résonna à travers la colline et les alentours, en reprenant son ampleur précédente. « Ces ‘Araignées’ sont autorisés à prendre place dans le tournoi en raison de leur conduite de samouraï. »
Les murmures revinrent, plus bruyants cette fois-ci, et il était clair que beaucoup avaient des objections à une telle déclaration. Mais la volonté des Cieux ne saurait être remise en question, et personne n’intervint contre l’Araignée de peur de mettre en colère les Voix du Soleil et de la Lune.
++++++++++++++++++

Daidoji Yaichiro s’inclina profondément avant son adversaire. Le jeune officier n’avait que peu d’idées sur la raison qui lui avait permis d’assister à ce tournoi, et il n’avait certainement pas anticipé d’être parmi les premiers duels du jour. Il souhaitait seulement être à la hauteur des attentes de son Champion et assurer que la Grue ne perde pas la face.
Son adversaire n’apparaissait pas concerné, et manipulait une arme plutôt non-conventionnelle : le sasumata. C’était une arme fort peu utilisée sur les champs de bataille, et cela inquiétait Yaichiro. « Je suis Yoritomo Daishiro, » dit l’homme, « premier magistrat de Houritsu Mura. » Il n’était pas du genre à se défiler lors d’un défi. « Je suis Daidoji Yaichiro, Taisa de la Quatrième Légion de l’armée Daidoji et petit-fils du grand héros Daidoji Sembi. » Il s’inclina « Je n’ai aucunement le désir de croiser le fer avec un honorable magistrat. Je vous propose de concéder. ». Daishiro eut un léger sourire. « Je ne crois pas, mais je vous laisse libre de le faire si vous le souhaitez. »
Yaichiro sourit de même, bien que cela tienne plus de la grimace. « Je ne le peux. »
« Fort bien. »
« Commencez, » ordonna la Voix de la Lune d’Obsidienne.

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Akodo Shigetoshi appréciait le rituel simple qu’était devenu le nettoyage de son armure. C’était un acte si familier qu’il en était devenu automatique, et cela l’aidait toujours à focaliser son esprit sur les questions en cours. C’était une chose simple, mais il y prenait un grand plaisir. C’était peut-être là le secret de l’illumination.
« Mon Seigneur, le représentant de la Légion des Deux Mille, » annonça doucement le garde derrière lui, manifestement mécontent de l’interrompre, mais agissant sur ordre afin de permettre l’entrée du ronin.
Shigetoshi ne se tourna pas immédiatement, poursuivant son rituel. « Je dois reconnaître, » dit-il au ronin placé derrière lui, « que j’ai grandement apprécié les services de votre légion. Vous êtes un exemple pour tous ceux qui ont porté le titre de ronin depuis des siècles. Il serait bon que plus de personnes de votre genre soient aussi honorables que vous. »
« Merci, mon seigneur. »
La voix perturba la tranquillité de Shigetoshi. Sa main, toute à sa tâche, s’était tellement serrée que la jointure de ses doigts devint blanche comme la mort. Sa respiration se bloqua un instant, puis il se força à reprendre son souffle et à se tourner doucement. Il s’était rendu ridicule. Il ne pouvait y avoir d’autre explication.
Le ronin demeura impassible près de l’entrée de la tente, laissant seulement ses yeux visibles derrière un masque. « Êtes-vous troublé, mon seigneur ? »
Shigetoshi n’eut pas besoin de voir plus que le regard de l’homme. « Mettez vous en garde, » dit-il dans un murmure.
« Mon seigneur ? »
« En garde, » répéta Shigetoshi d’une voix plus ferme. Lentement, le grand ronin secoua la tête. « Je ne le peux. »
« Vous le ferez» insista le Champion du Lion. « Ou dois-je vous couper en deux sur place ? »
« Pourquoi ? »
« Vous savez pourquoi ! » cracha Shigetoshi. « Vous savez très bien pourquoi ! »
« Je ne le ferai pas. »
Le choc qui avait secoué Shigetoshi avait laissé la colère monter en lui. « Le Lion ne peut avoir qu’un seul Champion ! » insista-t-il. « En avoir un second, en avoir deux vivants, divisera leur loyauté. Cela sera source de conflit, de confusion, et cela ne peut être permis. Je ne verrai pas le Clan se scinder en deux. Ainsi un de nous deux doit mourir. Je répète, en garde ! »
Le ronin leva les mains, paumes vers le haut. « Vous avez fait une erreur, mon Seigneur. Je suis un simple homme, rien de plus. Je ne serai jamais autre chose. » Il se pencha un peu plus près, tenant Shigetoshi de sa voix puissante. « Jamais, » répéta-t-il. « J’espère que vous comprenez. »
Le Champion du Clan du Lion demeura immobile pendant un long moment, puis écarta doucement sa main de son arme. « Bien entendu, » dit-il d’une voix tremblante. « J’ai… dû me tromper. »
« Sans doute, » dit le ronin d’une voix parfaitement calme.
« Où se trouve Utagawa ? J’attendais un rapport d’elle en personne. »
« Elle est au dojo des Mille Feuilles, elle a été temporairement déchargé de ses obligations , » répondit le ronin. « Je suis son commandant en second. Mon nom est Tamago, mon seigneur. »
« Certes, » dit Shigetoshi. « Utagawa a-t-elle été blessée ? »
« Non, » répondit Tamago. « Elle attend mon enfant. »
L’expression de surprise de Shigetoshi ne pouvait être cachée. « Oh, » dit-il simplement. Tamago jeta un coup d’œil par-dessus son épaule vers l’entrée de la tente. « Vos fils vont-ils bien ? » demanda-t-il tranquillement.
« Ils vont bien, merci, » dit Shigetoshi. Il hésita quelques instants tandis qu’il tenait en main le rouleau contenant les ordres de la légion. « Si je… » il s’arrêta et s’éclaircit la voix. « Si j’avais pu mourir à sa place, je l’aurai fait. » reprit-il avec calme.
« Je sais que vous l’auriez fait, » dit le ronin, sa voix trahissant finalement une certaine émotion. « Il est mort en ayant vaincu un ennemi supérieur durant une glorieuse bataille pour son Clan. Je n’aurais pu demander autre chose. Je suis très fier de lui. »
Shigetoshi approuva de la tête. « Vous ne devez jamais retourner sur les terres du Lion, » dit-il. « C’est trop dangereux. »
« J’enverrai un intermédiaire, » dit Tamago. « Ne vous inquiétez pas. Nous ne nous reverrons plus. » Alors qu’il s’apprêtait à partir il s’arrêta. « Bonne chance pour votre duel. Vous en aurez besoin ! »
Shigetoshi regarda le ronin disparaître. Il avait prévu un duel amical avec le Champion du Clan de la Licorne qui ne saurait tarder. C’était afin de maintenir l’esprit de rivalité entre les deux clans sans passer par des hostilités sur le terrain, mais Shigetoshi n’avait plus du tout l’envie de participer à cet évènement. Mais il ne pouvait prendre le risque d’insulter son adversaire. Il prit ses sabres et se prépara à partir, mais il attendit un petit moment, juste au cas où. Il ne voulait pas être vu en compagnie du ronin s’il pouvait l’éviter. C’était, comme il l’avait dit, trop dangereux.

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Mirumoto Kei sauta vers le haut, sentant une sorte de brûlure dans ses jambes tandis qu’elle se propulsait vers l’avant d’un saut qui permit au coup de son adversaire de passer largement sous son corps sans faire aucun dégât. Elle se débrouilla sans peine pour ramener ses pieds en arrière sous elle, afin d’atterrir avec souplesse, notant mentalement d’accroître autant que possible son temps hebdomadaire d’entraînement au dojo du Rossignol. Bayushi Kosugi sembla à peine ralentir son attaque, se tournant pour enchaîner instantanément une nouvelle série d’attaques contre son adversaire. Kei était bien obligé de reconnaître que l’homme était un guerrier extraordinaire, et peut-être un qu’elle ne pourrait vaincre. Elle poussa ces pensées hors de son esprit à peine furent-elles apparues ; elle n’entendait pas aider son adversaire d’une telle manière.
Kei repris ses marques et para une série de coups rapides, dont certaines feintes parmi les plus rapides qu’elle avait jamais vu. Elle réalisa pourquoi certains clans semblaient craindre les confrontations avec le Scorpion, même si elle n’avait connu que de simples entraînements avec de tels partenaires. Si c’était cela le style Bayushi, alors ses précédents adversaires avaient dû se retenir quelque peu. Elle nota cette information pour une utilisation future, et essaye de se concentrer sur son problème actuel.
La daimyo Mirumoto restait sur la défensive, appâtant le Scorpion avec des ouvertures rapides dans sa garde haute. Elle persista pendant ce qui sembla être une éternité, alors que ce n’étaient en fait que quelques secondes, jusqu’à ce que Kosugi tente d’exploiter son apparente faiblesse avec une frappe haute en direction de ses épaules. Kei remonta ses sabres, mais c’était évidemment ce que Kosugi avait anticipé, et il ralentit sa feinte pour frapper bas. Malheureusement pour lui, c’était ce qu’avait attendu Kei du style de combat Scorpion, et elle ne remonta pas ses sabres pour se défendre, mais pour frapper. Elle se jeta violemment en arrière dans le même temps, coupant son adversaire très légèrement au menton tout en évitant de peu sa frappe, du fait de son corps gracile.
« Le Dragon est victorieux, » dit la Voix du Soleil.

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Les plaines autour de la colline étaient emplies de spectateurs, d’innombrables légions de samouraï et de leurs vassaux, attendant tous dans un silence sans faille. En haut de la colline se tenaient les deux entités restées là toute la journée, si résolus et inamovibles qu’ils semblaient faire partie de la terre elle-même. A l’unisson, ils levèrent la main et firent un signe à quelqu’un.
Sur le versant Ouest, Moto Jin-sahn montait, l’étendue des ruines d’Otosan Uchi visible derrière lui. Sur le versant Est, le Champion du Clan de la Licorne, Moto Chen, marchait à grand pas vers le haut, la mer brillante luisant dans le lointain.
« De tous ceux qui ont avancé jusqu’ici aujourd’hui », gronda la Voix du Soleil, « vous deux êtes les plus méritants. Vous seul devez combattre pour la faveur des Cieux. »
« Et en faisant cela » ajouta la Voix de la Lune, « vous renforcerez la considération portée à votre Clan par la Volonté Céleste. »
« Le Trône ne doit pas rester vide plus longtemps, » dit la Voix du Soleil. « Demain, la lumière bénie du Soleil de Jade brillera sur une nouvelle ère à Rokugan. »
« Commencez, » commanda la Voix de la Lune.
Jin-sahn et Chen s’inclinèrent profondément l’un devant l’autre, et se mirent en garde.
Les deux samouraï se tinrent immobiles, s’évaluant avec prudence pendant plusieurs minutes. Finalement il y eut un mouvement flou et un flash d’acier, et soudain les deux hommes se retrouvèrent l’un derrière l’autre, leur sabre au repos comme après un coup.
Jin-sahn se tenait parfaitement tandis qu’un pan de son kimono orné de fourrure chutait vers le sol.
Chen se tenait de même absolument immobile tandis qu’une partie de sa manche s’envolait, exposant son bras et la fine ligne de sang qui le traversait.
Chen gloussa. « Le Iaijutsu n’a jamais été mon point fort au dojo, » admit-il. « C’est malheureux. C’était un nouveau kimono. Akasha pourrait être contrariée. »
Jin-sahn s’inclina fort bas. « Pardonnez moi, mon seigneur. Ce sont sans doute les bénédictions des Seigneurs de la Mort qui ont permis… »
Le Khan leva une main. « Pas d’excuses, ni de justifications. Peut-être étaient-ce les Seigneurs de la Mort, ou peut-être était-ce que j’ai usé toute ma chance dans le duel contre Shigetoshi auparavant, mais le situation reste la même. Aujourd’hui, tu es le meilleur homme, mon ami. » Sa main retomba.
Jin-Sahn s’approcha et attrapa le bras de Chen à la manière des hommes des tribus Moto.
« Moto Jin-sahn, pieux au dessus de tout soupçon, loyal au-delà de tout doute, a montré sa vertu en ce jour, » dit la Voix du Soleil. « Il est béni des Cieux, et pour sa valeur, la Licorne sera bien considérée par la volonté de Tengoku. »
« Lorsque les Cieux jugeront les Clans, et que l’Empereur Choisi s’avancera, » continua la Voix de la Lune, « Jin-sahn se tiendra sans nul doute parmi la Cour du nouvel Empereur. Retourne maintenant aux temples et autels qui entourent ce site sacré, et prépare-toi. Ton jugement est proche. »

[Soshi Yabu]

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[Soshi Yabu]

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[Soshi Yabu]

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[Soshi Yabu]

Imperial Advisor - Daigotsu Susumu

The Conclusion, Part 3
By Shawn Carman

The twenty-first day of the Month of the Dog, year 1170
Ide Yusuke walked along the secluded path, alone with his thoughts for the moment. Here he could finally escape the unending clamor that had sprung up around Seppun Hill. When a city’s worth of people were concentrated in such a small area, then given reason to behave as if it were the final day of the Bon Festival… well, that was not an environment that he particularly enjoyed. He had long ago learned to deal with it, of course, but given the opportunity to take his leave, even if only for a short time, he gladly did so. And he had important business that required his attention, after all.

A short time ago, a Unicorn sentry had come to find him. Yusuke had saved the life of the boy’s father in battle, and the warrior had never forgotten it. The sentry informed him that a lone courtier had been seen walking down the path leading south of Seppun Hill. It seemed perfectly harmless of course, but this was a person in whom Yusuke had a particular interest, especially after the incredulous events of the morning. So he had quickly set aside his obligations for the moment and set out along the same path, hoping to find his prey somewhere in the area. Yusuke had questions. A great many questions, in fact.

There. Sitting on a stone near a small stream. The young man seemed pensive, perhaps even concerned, and the thought filled Yusuke with satisfaction. He had nothing but suspicion and contempt for the other courtier, and had been aghast at the news he had heard only a few hours ago. That the man seemed himself to find the news of concern only confirmed to Yusuke that his suspicions had merit. “Susumu,” he called out as he approached.

The young Spider turned toward the voice and smiled. It seemed so genuine, but the Unicorn doubted its sincerity very much. “Yusuke-san,” he said. Immediately he winced slightly and held up a placatory hand. “I apologize. You have specifically asked me not to be overly familiar, and that was inappropriate. I should say, Yusuke-sama.”

Yusuke frowned. He had not expected such deference. He glanced away to hide his look of dismay. “I suppose,” he admitted grudgingly, “that manner of address is no longer appropriate. It is I who should call you sama, it seems.”

“Ah. You have heard, then.” The young man turned back to regard the stream and the pasture beyond. A horse could be seen grazing in the distance. “I actually thought of you, when I was first given the news. I knew you would be upset.”

“I want to understand,” Yusuke said. “You are a ronin. A member of the so-called Spider Clan, men and woman who have no right to call themselves a clan at all, and the new Emperor chooses you, you of all people, to serve as the Imperial Advisor?”

“So it would seem.”

“None of this makes any sense,” Yusuke said gruffly. “Could I have been so completely wrong in my assessment of you? Of your people? I need to understand. If I have been wrong, then I owe you and yours an apology.”

Susumu smiled and held up his hand, palm up. “That will not be necessary, my friend. You wished only to serve your clan. I assure you that given all I have seen, I will never fault a man for wariness.”

“Thank you, Susumu-sama,” Yusuke said, the honorific like ashes in his mouth. “I was hoping… could you tell me what happened?” He hated asking the younger man with such an air of deference, but he knew no other way to solicit the information he required.

“I would like to tell you,” Susumu said. “I would like to talk about it very much. Please, have a seat. I fear this will take a few moments.” He patted the rock next to him, and Yusuke took a seat cautiously. “When the new Voice of the Emperor came to see me, I was quite surprised, and not a little alarmed. Few are pleased that we Spider are present, even with your Khan’s endorsement. I thought perhaps he had come to eject me, or even to punish me.”

“Punish?” Yusuke asked.

“I have a litany of sins that I keep well hidden from my Unicorn hosts,” Susumu said with a disarming grin. “The Voice told me that the new Emperor was well aware of the breadth and scope of the Spider Clan’s activities. You can imagine that this was extremely discouraging for me.”

Yusuke dared to hope that he might find out the truth. “What activities might those be?”

“Much that you might expect,” Susumu said. “That our leaders orchestrated many of the threats that we combated in order to gain the favor of the people. That we were involved in a number of assassinations of prominent individuals, and that we had deliberately fostered moral and political corruption throughout the ranks of virtually every Great Clan.”

The old quartermaster said nothing, his mouth slightly agape.

“The Divine One knew of all this, the Voice explained,” Susumu continued, “but had chosen not to reveal it to the Empire as a whole.”

“What? Why not?”

“I assume that the Spider’s association with the Unicorn and, before you, the Mantis, played a role in that decision,” Susumu said. “Should the truth be known, both your clans would be ruthlessly persecuted, not to mention the Scorpion as well. Their duty is to seek out hidden threats, and all that. Such revelations could easily stoke the embers of war again, and that is not what the Divine One desires. Or so it would seem. Ultimately who can truly know the mind of a divinely endorsed monarch?”

“But… but…”

“Still, one must assume that there will be dire ramifications,” Susumu continued. “Any further… indiscretions… on the part of the Spider will likely result in our wholesale execution regardless of what ramifications such an act might have between the clans.”

“Why are you the Imperial Advisor?” Yusuke roared.

Susumu seemed genuinely surprised by the question. “I have thought about that. For one thing, I believe it was Akodo’s Leadership that advised one’s enemies should be kept close at hand. For another, men like me managed to deceive an entire Empire. We sought out the weak and the hungry, and we turned them to our end without great difficulty. Even if that manner of skill could not be used in court, then at the very least I imagine that I can offer a completely unique perspective to the Divine Emperor that none other in the Imperial Court can.” He smiled. “One can only hope!”

Yusuke sat in stunned silence, attempted to absorb everything he had just heard. Anger blossomed in his chest, but he struggled to keep it under control. This was an opportunity to rid his clan of an enormous threat, and he must not act rashly. “Why have you told me all this?” he asked warily.

“Honestly?” Susumu said. “I almost certainly should not have done so. It seems reckless, don’t you think?”

“Why?” Yusuke repeated.

“Truly, part of me very much wanted to sit and talk with someone about the entire affair, without the web of lies I normally wield. Make no mistake, I find it a comforting weapon to use against others, but today has been… unusual. And I felt the need for a little honesty. It really is extraordinarily out of character for me. Under normal circumstances I lie as easily as I breathe.” He glanced sidelong at the Unicorn. “But of course you know that. You always have.”

“I think it is time I summoned the magistrates,” Yusuke said, beginning to rise.

“I also shared this with you,” Susumu continued, nonplussed by the quartermaster’s threat, “because you alone, I think, suspected the truth. Your people have accepted us so readily. Before I entered my master’s service, I think I would have found your hospitality… touching. But not you personally, of course. You despise me and all my kind. That you are one of the leading contenders to replace Ide Tang is a problem, of course, due to your extensive military experience. Should you assume control of the Ide instead of that slimy, simpering buffoon Eien, which I say with all affection and respect, if I may, then my life would become considerably more difficult. And that, of course, ties into the final reason that I spoke to you today.”

Yusuke had heard enough. He rose and turned, gathering his satchel. When he turned back, Susumu had risen silently and stood before him. He started to bark an order to move at the younger man, but found himself strangely unable to speak. Something was wrong, but he did not know what. “The final reason,” Susumu said quietly, “is that after today, I am uncertain when I shall ever have the chance to take the life of an enemy with my own hands. Possibly never again, and I wanted to savor that sensation one last time.”

The Unicorn looked down at the knife the Spider had plunged into his stomach. He struggled to speak, but the words would not come. He reached up feebly for Susumu’s face, but the young courtier batted his hand away absently. Yusuke had the thought to withdraw the knife, but before he could do so everything went black, and he fell away into the darkness.

Susumu stared at the Unicorn’s body for a moment. “A pity,” he muttered. “So many unsavory types attend these large tournaments, looking for easy prey.” He picked up the fallen courtier’s bag and scattered its contents along the ground, careful to remove the handful of coins to ensure it appeared that he had been the victim of theft. Then he turned to go find a magistrate, casting his simple knife and its saya into the stream as he walked.

[Soshi Yabu]

Voice of the Emperor - Togashi Satsu

The Conclusion, Part 4
By Shawn Carman

The twenty-first day of the Month of the Dog, year 1170
The plains surrounding Seppun Hill were filled with a strange mix of tranquility and revelry. Less than an hour previously, the Voices of the Heavens has proclaimed the judgment of Tengoku, and a new Emperor had ascended to the throne. A new Dynasty was made manifest in the Empire of Rokugan, and it promised to herald in an age of unknowns. Many had flocked to the temples to pray, thanking the Heavens for their guidance and praying for their new lord’s wisdom and mercy. Others celebrated the occurrence, and many raucous parties had already been disrupted by the vigilant Seppun guardsmen before they became too disruptive.

None of that mattered to Mirumoto Kei.

The warrior studied her opponent carefully, looking for any sign of weakness, anything that she could use to gain an advantage. Unfortunately, her opponent simply stood there, virtually unmoving. After a few moments of enduring her scrutiny, he smiled slightly, and beckoned her forward with one hand.

Kei obliged and darted forward with considerable speed, the blade’s unfamiliar weight making it ever so slightly more awkward than she would have liked. Togashi Satsu stood perfectly still until the last possible second, and then moved only a matter of inches, allowing the blunted blade to pass so close to the flesh of his face that Kei felt sick seeing it, and wondered if it might not literally have trimmed the hair from his cheek.

Satsu reached out and touched Kei’s shoulder lightly. She felt no pain, but found herself spinning across the small dirt clearing where the two were sparring, her momentum turned against her. She regained her footing and dropped into a defensive stance, but once again Satsu failed to press the offensive, instead regarding her with that same expectant look that she found so frustrating.

She circled around until she was facing his left side, then darted in again. This time she adopted a somewhat modified strategy of a previous attempt that had not worked, hoping perhaps that he would not react in the same manner. She feinted low with her katana, then swung suddenly around backwards in a dangerous spin that brought her wakizashi speeding toward his neck. With the same calm, impossible grace and speed, Satsu caught her blade between the first two fingers of his right hand. The maneuver should have split his hand in two to the wrist, even with the blunted practice weapon, but he held it between his fingers seemingly without effort. His right hand darted out, snake-like in its speed, and tapped her upper left shoulder lightly. She felt a slight tingling sensation.

“You must not overextend yourself,” Satsu began.

Kei suddenly released the handle of her wakizashi and delivered a rapid unarmed strike with her left hand, catching Satsu unaware and striking him squarely on the chin. He staggered back, completely surprised, but never released the blade. He moved his hand away from his chin, and Kei saw with horror that she had cut him. “My lord!” she said, dropping the practice katana and bowing. “I did not mean… I do not… I am sorry!”

Satsu chuckled and tossed the wakizashi down to join the katana. “Well done, Kei!” he said. “You completely ignored the effects of the nerve strike! I am impressed. Few are so quick to master the Iron Sheath technique. I only taught it to you a few weeks ago, after all. You are a masterful student.”

Kei blushed furiously despite herself. “Not quite, my lord,” she admitted. She reached inside her kimono and removed a small metal plate that she had bound to her shoulder. It showed a clear indentation where Satsu had struck it despite the apparent lightness of his touch. “I simply hate to be defeated twice in the same manner.”

Satsu laughed again, this time more boisterously. “Well done,” he repeated. “Every day, you reinforce the trust I have placed in you.” His expression changed, and grew more somber. “It is my great regret that I must burden you with so much responsibility.”

“Never, my lord,” she insisted. “I am honored beyond words to serve the Dragon Champion.”

Satsu nodded and stared south, toward Seppun Hill. “You have not spoken of the proclamation.”

Kei said nothing.

“It concerns you somehow,” he continued. “I can sense your unease.”

“I should rejoice that the Empire no longer suffers an empty throne,” Kei admitted. “I should be filled with joy that the wars will end. And yet…”

“And yet you sense a darkness, something dark on the horizon,” Satsu finished for her. “I know the feeling well, my friend. I feel it as well. There are dark times ahead for the Dragon.”

“There was a promise to levy judgment. I find myself wondering if it could be the Dragon who are judged. I have no reason to think this, but I cannot help myself.” She shook her head. “Some days I miss the simple times, when I was nothing more than a soldier.”

“Those days are far behind you now,” Satsu said. “And I fear they grow more distant with each passing moment.” He smiled. “I regret that I must increase the burden you bear, Kei. I hope that you will forgive me for it one day.”

She frowned. “I do not understand, my lord.”

Satsu continued looking at Seppun Hill in the distance. “I am to become the Voice of the Emperor.”

Kei could not suppress a gasp. “My lord!”

“And you are to succeed me as Dragon Champion.”

There was a moment of pristine silence. “What?”

“There is none better to take up the task,” Satsu explained.

“My lord, no,” she began. “I am not fit to bear such a burden. Surely there is another better suited to…”

“There is not.”

“Mareshi,” Kei insisted. “Mareshi is far more suited to such a task than I.”

“He would not wish it,” Satsu answered. “And nor do I. None is more suited to this duty than you. And in any event, if your husband took my place in your stead, do you imagine your burden would be any lighter?”

Kei frowned and said nothing.

“Have you forgiven him?”

“My lord?”

Satsu smiled. “Your marriage was one of convenience, at least for Mareshi. The normal procedures were hardly followed, and I know that you are a traditional woman. There was resentment in your heart at first. I have seen it.”

“I… yes, there was,” she said. “I admit that now, but I have overcome that. I recognize the benefits inherent in the arrangement. And regardless of his motivations, Mareshi did what he felt best for the clan. I can see that now.”

“Yours is not a marriage of love, but of respect. In many ways, that can be a tremendous advantage.” Satsu took up the practice blades where they lay on the ground. “Your husband has achieved much for the Dragon, and will achieve more during his lifetime, but this is not his path. It is yours.”

She hesitated. “I do not know what to say, my lord.”

“Then say nothing,” he said. “Simply accept.”

“I have little choice.”

“It is as I said,” Satsu continued. “There are dark days ahead for the Dragon Clan. I do not know the severity of the trials we shall face, but they exist all the same. I believe that my grandfather foresaw them, to some extent.”

“Can you recall his visions?” Kei asked hopefully.

“Not clearly,” Satsu said, grimacing. “The power of a Kami can overwhelm and subdue your own vision, even without intending to. I know that Togashi struggled to understand what was to come, in order to spare the Dragon from it, but even he could not see it with clarity. I have pored over his journals, texts he wrote while his spirit was ascendant in this flesh, but this far I have found nothing more than vague omens.”

“What must we do, then?”

“Endure,” was his answer. “Persevere. Overcome. The Dragon will weather these trials. We are greater than that which awaits us, no matter what it may be.”

Kei only nodded. “And what of you, my lord?”

“My fate is greater than I ever imagined, it seems,” Satsu said. “My duty shall be to bring the Emperor’s word to the people. It is a duty that has been corrupted in the past, twisted by weak men who wished to advance their own agenda by flavoring the Emperor’s words. That shall not happen again. It shall fall to me to ensure that the Emperor’s word is pure, and the will of the throne is known to the people.”

“There can be none other better suited to the task,” Kei said. “It eases my disquiet to know that you shall stand among the Emperor’s Chosen.”

“Thank you,” Satsu said with a bow. “The Empire is about to change, my friend.”

“Yes,” Kei admitted. “We can only hope it is for the better.”

“There is more than hope,” Satsu said firmly. “We can work to ensure that it is so. Ambition and avarice have nearly doomed the Empire far too many times. The time has come for honorable men and women to stand fast and prevent it, rather than reacting after it has happened.”

Kei smiled proudly. “The Dragon will stand with you, my lord.”

“The Dragon will follow the Emperor’s will, as they ever have,” Satsu agreed, “but it must fall to you to pursue the clan’s own interests as well. To overlook the good of the clan will make them weaker in the face of their enemies, and that is something that I fear cannot be allowed.” He handed the blades to Kei. “I must make my way to the Divine One’s side. The documents citing you as the new Champion are to be found in your chambers. I had them delivered shortly after you left this morning.”

Kei took the battered blades with a bow. “As you command, Voice of the Emperor.”

[Soshi Yabu]

TRAD A VENIR

[Soshi Yabu]

Shogun - Moto Jin-sahn

The Conclusion, Part 5
By Shawn Carman

It required all of Moto Jin-sahn’s will not to fidget idly as he stood waiting in the room outside Kyuden Seppun’s main audience chamber. His kinsmen had been assisting in the defense of the palace for months, but despite the comforting familiarity of so many Unicorn guards, he still felt grossly out of place. A distant part of him, somewhere deep within where he hid weakness, demanded that he flee and never look back, but he crushed the voice as quickly as it had arisen.

All of this, Jin-sahn reflected, was because of the tournament. He had emerged victorious that day for reasons he still could not fully understand. Had that been only yesterday? How was that possible? Jin-sahn knew that the Lords of Death had blessed him, and it was only through their strength and their power that he had won the day. He knew that all that would come from his victory was an opportunity for him to champion their cause. Whatever came of it, he must remember his purpose.

“Moto Jin-sahn.”

The Moto warrior bowed deeply as the unmistakable form of Togashi Satsu emerged from the room beyond. “Hai, Satsu-sama.”

“The Empress wishes to see you,” Satsu said. “Would you follow me?” Jin-sahn nodded and followed the broad-shouldered monk into the audience chamber.

The chamber had been stripped of all but the most essential ornamentation. It was possible that it had always looked stark and austere, but Jin-sahn could not know for certain. The dominating feature of the room at present was what appeared to be a raised dais with a large screen in front of it. Lanterns burned behind the screen, and in their light Jin-sahn could make out the clear outline of a woman sitting atop the dais, watching him. On either side of the dais, sitting on smaller platforms that were not obscured by the screen, were the Voices of the Heavens, both the Voice of the Jade Sun and the Voice of the Obsidian Moon, regarding him frankly and without any display of emotion. Jin-sahn immediately knelt before the screen. “My Empress,” he said, his voice nearly cracking with emotion. To be in her presence was to know that she was the will of the Heavens made manifest.

“The Empress is greatly pleased with your victory at the Celestial Tournament,” Satsu said. “She can find no fault with the assessment of the Heavens’ Voices. You are a man of great virtue. Piety. Loyalty. Selflessness. You are an example for all warriors.”

Jin-sahn closed his eyes to prevent tears. “Thank you, Divine Empress. I am not worthy of such praise.”

“That remains to be seen,” Satsu said. “The Empress wishes to know your rank and title within the armies of the Unicorn Clan.”

“I am proud to serve as chui of the fourth company of the Forty-seventh Legion of the Khol, in service to the Khan Moto Chen.”

“And you have served with distinction,” Satsu said. “You personally commanded the scout patrol that rescued Yasuki Jinn-Kuen, Crab representative to the Imperial Court, from bandits in the Iuchi Pass, did you not?”

“I could not permit travelers through the Unicorn lands to be imperiled,” he answered. “To do so would call into question the honor of my Khan.”

Satsu nodded. “The Empress wishes to hear of your devotion to the Lords of Death.”

Jin-sahn hesitated for a moment, as this was an unexpected avenue of discussion. “The Lords of Death are the gods of my family, from centuries before our return to the Empire,” he explained. “I honor them, and my ancestors by doing so. Once they were granted the endorsement of Tengoku, and their worship became more prevalent, I could embrace my faith to the fullest.” He paused for a moment, considering, then added, “They give me strength and surety. With their blessings I am never weak, I never falter.”

“Can you envision a situation in which your faith would place you at odds with the will of the Empress?”

“No,” Jin-sahn answered at once. “The Lords of Death exist to pass judgment on the unworthy, and to foster strength in those who follow their code. The Empress is the will of the Heavens made manifest, and they serve the Heavens just as do we all. There can be no conflict.”

Satsu glanced at the screen, and Jin-sahn saw the Empress’ silhouette nod once, slowly. “It is the will of the Divine Empress that you accept the position of Shogun of the Empire,” Satsu said. “As such you will take command of the remnants of the original Shogunate, as well as a portion of the Imperial Legions.”

Had Jin-sahn not been kneeling, he felt certain that his legs would have collapsed beneath him. “If it is the Empress’ will, then I will serve in whatever capacity she wishes.”

“Take command of your forces,” Satsu said. “Make any changes you deem necessary. In three days time, you will lead your men to the Shinomen Mori and purge it of any and all influence by the so-called Spider Clan. You will likewise dispatch forces to the ruins of Otosan Uchi to search for any presence the Spider may have there.”

“Hai, Empress,” Jin-sahn said. “Should I anticipate the Great Clans participating in this military endeavor as well?”

“The clans will not know the purpose of your campaign,” Satsu answered. “If they inquire, then you will inform them that they will be told at the Empress’ discretion, and that interference with the execution of your duties will lead to an immediate and severe sanction from the Empress herself.”

Jin-sahn showed no sign of surprise. “As you command, my Empress.”

“Go with the blessings of the Child of Heaven,” Satsu said

* * *

Jinn-sahn sat mutely in a temple, struggling to focus on his daily prayers, but his mind continued to wander to other topics. He chided himself inwardly for allowing worldly matters to cloud his mind so, but he could not help himself. He would have to commit some act of atonement later to make up for his failure.

The Khan had been greatly pleased by his announcement, and had wished to hold a festival in the Shogun’s honor. For his part, Jin-sahn was horrified by the very idea, and explained that his duties would prevent his immediate return to the Unicorn provinces. Moto Chen’s exuberant mood had not been diminished, and he had simply resolved to hold the festival in Jin-sahn’s absence instead. Jin-sahn was grateful that he had not been asked the nature of his duties, for he did not relish the notion of withholding information from his Khan. His duty would permit nothing less, however, and he had to prepare himself for the inevitability of it all.

Jin-sahn knew that someone waited for him at the temple doorway. Had he been any less familiar with the perfect silence of the temple setting, he would not have known that the man had entered at all, so silent and reverent was his movement. Whoever it was, he had waited silently for nearly an hour, never moving, never drawing attention to himself. Jin-sahn respected that, and given that he had accomplished little of finding his center during this prayer session, he offered a quick apology to the Lords of Death, vowing to double his time in prayer in the evening, then rose to see who had come for him. It was something he imagined he would have to get used to very quickly.

The man waiting for him was a Phoenix, and although he bore a scroll satchel, he also carried both blades. Jin-sahn looked at him curiously. “I did not think that Phoenix shugenja chose to carry the blade, on average.”

The man smiled slightly and bowed. “I am not a priest of the kami, Jin-sahn-sama. These are not prayer scrolls. They contain vital information necessary for the execution of your duties.”

“Oh? You are a messenger from the Legions, then?”

“No, my lord,” the man answered. “My name is Shiba Danjuro. I was privileged to serve as Kaneka-sama’s second in command, and have overseen the Shogunate following his death.” He offered the satchel. “I have prepared extensive reports detailing all existing resources at your command, including the current location and dispensation of all forces remaining under the control of the Shogunate.”

“I have heard of you,” Jin-sahn said, accepting the satchel. “You are a good and honorable man.”

“You are kind to say so, my lord,” Danjuro said simply.

“You also know more of the Shogunate than any living soul,” Jin-sahn said. “What will you do now?’

“Return home, I imagine,” Danjuro said. “There is a new Champion whom I have never had the chance to serve. I hope that I will find a position within her armies. I am a soldier. It is my lot to serve.”

“You are respected and admired by the men who follow the Shogun,” Jin-sahn said. “If you would consider it, I would value your service as my shireikan.”

Danjuro seemed genuinely surprised. “I… thank you, my lord. I had imagined you would wish to reorganize the army into a form more suitable to your clan’s less conventional tactics.”

“I must be Shogun first, and Unicorn second,” Jin-sahn said. “I must embrace what is, not what I am accustomed to.” He paused and weighed the satchel. “Will you stand as my second in command, and serve me as well and loyally as you served Kaneka?”

Danjuro bowed deeply. “I would be greatly honored, my lord.”

Jin-sahn smiled. “Good. Then come, Danjuro. We have much to do, and I fear for the first few days at least, I will need to lean heavily on you.”

[Soshi Yabu]

TRAD A VENIR

[Soshi Yabu]

The Empress - Kitsuki Iweko

The Conclusion, Part 6
By Shawn Carman

The twenty-first day of the Month of the Dog, year 1170
On the twentieth day of the Dog, the final round of the Celestial Tournament at Seppun Hill had been conducted under the watchful eye of the Voice of the Jade Sun and the Voice of the Obsidian Moon. On that day, a relatively unknown Unicorn samurai had emerged victorious, and had assumed the position of Favored of the Heavens, an illustrious title with unknown connotations. At the conclusion of the tournament, the Heavens’ Voices had instructed those assembled to return to their homes, shrines, and temples, for the final judgment of the Heavens was at hand.

At dawn the next day, thousands were sitting in prayer and meditation, solemnly fulfilling the will of Tengoku as they had been instructed. As one, they opened their eyes. Those who had assembled in groups looked to one another and, wordlessly, they rose and walked toward Seppun Hill.

The hour of judgment had come. As the faithful thousands gathered around the base of the hill, the impassive forms of the Voice of the Jade Sun and the Voice of the Obsidian Moon appeared atop it, simply manifesting with the brilliant rays of the morning sun.

“The eyes of the Heavens have been upon mankind for longer than you know,” the Voice of the Jade Sun said. “They have seen the arrogance and the presumption of men, and have found them wanting. The time for this has passed. The children of men shall rule the Empire no longer. A child of the Heavens must reign, or all is lost.”

“As the men and women of the Great Clans stood in competition,” the Voice of the Obsidian Moon added, her words winding through the crowd like a silken ribbon, entrancing all who heard them, “all who stood for their clan were judged. All were weighed against the ideals established during the dawn of the Empire, then the devotion of men to the Heavens was as it always should have been.”

“Among those who traveled here to seek the favor of Tengoku, one clan has emerged above all others. A clan of virtue and honor. A clan worthy of the duty of placing a ruler upon the throne for the next one thousand years.”

The silence was absolute and unbroken.

“Representatives of the Dragon Clan,” the Moon’s Voice said. “Step forward.”

A half dozen samurai, those chosen to represent the clan at the tournament, stepped forward and knelt, uncertain as to what would be asked of them. “One among you shall reign above all men,” the Sun’s Voice said. “Whom shall it be?”

“My lords,” Togashi Satsu said. “If I may, we cannot make such a choice. You who are empowered by the Heavens beyond that which any mortal has ever known, you who perceive the measure of every man’s soul and weigh the virtue within it… you must choose. It is above my station to ask anything of such as you, my lords, but I must ask it all the same: please, choose from among the Dragon the most worthy and virtuous, and exalt them above all.”

“The Heavens are pleased,” the Moon’s Voice said. “Togashi Satsu exhibits the wisdom of the Kami in his words.”

“The Jade Sun and the Obsidian Moon, in their limitless mercy and wisdom, grant your request,” the Voice of the Sun said. “Kitsuki Iweko, step forward.”

The daimyo of the Kitsuki family rose from where she knelt, all color drained from her face. She glanced at Satsu, a questioning look on her face. “This is the hour of your destiny,” the Dragon Champion said. “Embrace it without regret. I have known you all of our lives. Nothing could surprise me less than your selection. Go.”

Slowly, Iweko ascended the hill and knelt before the Voices of the Heavens. “Kitsuki Iweko,” the Moon’s Voice asked, “are you worthy of this honor?”

“No,” she answered at once. “I am not.”

“None are,” the Sun’s Voice agreed. “And yet you who are virtually without fault and without failure, you who have lived an entire lifetime exemplifying that which the Heavens demand of those who serve them, are first among millions.” He extended his hand, which was wreathed in jade fire. “Accept the blessing of the Jade Sun, Kitsuki Iweko.”

The Moon’s Voice likewise extended her hand, cloaked in swirling shadow. “Accept the blessing of the Obsidian Moon, Iweko-san.”

Iweko hesitated only a moment, and then reached out and took both hands at the same instant.

The clouds above Seppun Hill parted, and the radiance of Tengoku shone down upon the mortal realm. Those in attendance could not bear the brilliance of it, and had to look away. There was a roaring sound, a single note of pristine perfection that all there heard not with their ears, but resounding within their soul, and none could question that the Heavens were present in that one, perfect instant.

The sound faded, and the brilliance waned. Those in attendance looked back to the Hill. There, Iweko stood between the Voices, her posture perfect, her manner irrevocably and inexplicably changed. Her eyes, brown only a moment before, were a brilliant blue that none had ever seen save in the majesty of the sky, and she looked upon her subjects with favor.

The Voices of the Sun and Moon knelt before her. “All hail the Divine Emperor, Child of the Heavens,” the Voice of the Sun commanded.

“All hail Empress Iweko the First,” the Moon’s Voice added.

As one, without a word, the thousands in attendance knelt before their Empress.

* * *

The tent was small and somewhat threadbare. There were no guards posted, and nothing drew attention to it or its contents in any way. It was exactly like a hundred others, and as such offered the comfort of anonymity. It was a simple matter to conclude that nothing had drawn any attention to it from the moment it has been pitched, until right now.

Satsu ignored the awed looks of others and swept aside the flap that covered the tent’s entrance. He felt an uncharacteristic sensation welling in his chest, and he knew that it was anger. So much of his life had been spent in pursuit of serenity and balance that there were times he had difficulty controlling the onset of strong emotion. Fortunately the past few months had given him ample opportunity to forge his will into a thing of steel. He would need that strength now.

The young man in the tent was sitting at a small, battered writing desk. He glanced up as Satsu entered, his eyes widening only for the briefest of seconds before his obvious control over himself was re-exerted. “Togashi Satsu,” the man said, bowing so deeply that his forehead touched the surface of the desk at which he sat. “This is a great honor.”

“I come to bear the words of my Empress,” Satsu said quietly. “It would be in your best interest to remain silent unless questioned.”

The ronin called Susumu opened his mouth, then shut it again at once and smiled, nodding his head deferentially.

“You were a witness to the proclamation of the Voices of the Heavens,” Satsu said, “and the subsequent ritual of ascendance, correct?”

“I was,” Susumu confirmed.

“Then you witnessed an event unprecedented in our lifetimes,” Satsu said. “You witnessed the transcendence of Kitsuki Iweko to the Divine Empress. You witnessed the essence of the Heavens mingling with a human soul, if only for a moment.”

“I did,” Susumu said. “It was… glorious.”

“It was more than that. It was miraculous. In that instant, the Empress was granted insights no mortal has ever known. Truths were given to her, truths about many things. Including the Spider Clan.”

Susumu frowned. “I am afraid I do not know what you mean.”

“Your lies mean nothing to me,” Satsu said. “Continue to debase yourself with them if you like, but I will not justify them. The Empress is aware of your actions, your plans, and those whom you serve, Daigotsu Susumu. All is known to her.”

The courtier said nothing at first. “Strange for the Empress to send her Voice as an assassin. Why not a Shogun instead?”

Satsu’s expression did not change, but it required a colossal effort of will. “I would have been overjoyed if my Empress had given me the honor of claiming your life,” he said. “It would have been a tiny measure of justice for a great many lives worth far more than your own. Sadly that is not my task, although I will pray fervently every day that the Empress will one day choose me for such an honor.”

Susumu had paled visibly. “What is it you want, then?”

“Why do you serve Daigotsu?”

He frowned. “What?”

“Answer the question,” Satsu insisted. “I was told to measure your response.”

Susumu sat for a moment. “Very well,” he finally said. “I serve Daigotsu because he is strength, and will, and focus. He rewards strength where others reward only sycophancy. In his service, I reap the reward for my successes, and my failures are mine alone to bear.” He paused. “And I worship a god whose blessings are not given and taken away without rhyme or reason. Samurai are meant to have faith in their lord and in their gods. What need have I of faith? I have proof that I carry their favor.”

Satsu’s jaw muscles tightened visibly, but he did not react outwardly. “You do not bear the mark of Jigoku on your soul.”

“I do not,” Susumu said proudly. “I do not need it to serve my lord. My strengths are enough.”

“So be it,” Satsu said. “The Empress has seen the truth of your ‘Spider Clan,’ and finds it an abomination. From this day forward, none may bear your symbol on pain of death. The Shogun’s forces will move upon your strongholds in the Shinomen Mori, the ruins of Otosan Uchi, and everywhere else your poison has taken root. Those whom your master has bound to his will within the ranks of the Great Clans shall be rooted out and destroyed by the Emerald and Jade Champions. All your works shall be undone. You will send this word back to your master before returning to the Empress’ side.”

Susumu’s expression was one of abject confusion. “The Empress’ side? Do you expect me to throw myself upon my sword? You cannot be so foolish.”

“Only souls with honor can be expected to take their own lives. None would expect such a thing of you,” Satsu said scornfully. “And yet, for all your sins, you serve your master and your god loyally. You understand duty, and piety. You and those like you deceived an entire Empire. Your insight, your observations, will be unlike any of those who serve the Great Clans. For this reason, and because the Empress desires to maintain knowledge of your master at all times, you shall remain at her side in the Imperial Court.” He paused, his face twisting in distaste ever so slightly. “As the Imperial Advisor.”

“The Imperial Advisor?” Susumu’s expression could surely have not contained more shock if he had himself been declare the Emperor of Rokugan. “Your Empress must be mad. If the Great Clans learn the truth behind the Spider, and find one at her side…”

“The truth shall not be known,” Satsu said. “To do so would tear the clans apart, and what they require most now is unity. No, the truth shall remain hidden for now, for the good of the Empire. Send word, however, that all those who bear the mark of Jigoku shall be killed at once wherever they are encountered. Only those like yourself, those who are without the Shadowlands’ influence on their bodies and souls, shall have the opportunity to earn the Empress’ forgiveness. You shall be the messenger from the Vassal of the Heavens to those who have embraced the path of the Fallen Kami. Do you understand?”

“No,” Susumu said at once. “But I shall obey all the same.”

* * *

On the twenty-second day of the Dog, in the year 1170, the Empress of Rokugan and her advisors, protected by one thousand Seppun guardsmen, departed from Seppun Hill and began the journey to the Imperial Palace in Toshi Ranbo. More than ten thousand gathered to witness the departure of her palanquin, and the entire road from the beginning of her journey to the end was surrounded on all sides by joyous denizens of the Empire, praising her name and weeping for joy at the ascendance of a new Imperial Dynasty.

In the year 1170 by the Isawa calendar, the Age of Man was ended.

The Reign of the Divine Empress had begun.

[Soshi Yabu]

TRAD A VENIR

[Soshi Yabu]

A New Empire, Part 1
By Shawn Carman
Edited by Fred Wan

The Mantis

The Mantis Estates in the Imperial City could be politely described as opulent, perhaps even lavish. Many in Toshi Ranbo eschewed politeness on this particular subject, however, and instead used words like “ostentatious,” “shameful,” or even “disgusting.” It was the last one that entertained Yoritomo Sachina the most. Given her unique background, having spent most of her life as one of the most successful geisha in the Empire despite her noble birth, she understood very well that no matter how much a samurai claimed to despise wealth and commerce, he depended upon such things to live. Whether the dichotomy existed as a result of hypocrisy or delusion varied from person to person, but the result was the same: it was easy to manipulate someone who did not know or refused to acknowledge the truth.

As Sachina glanced about the main audience chamber of the estate, she could not help but feel a twinge of regret. It was ridiculous, of course, because now she had everything she wanted. She was, in a very real way…

“Sachina-san,” a voice interrupted. “Mistress of all you survey?”

Once she might have worried that such a comment might indicate her mood was transparent, but then of course her associate was only stating what the incredibly obvious. “I am certain I have no idea what you mean, Singh-san.”

As always, the gaijin’s swarthy skin and strange head-wrap made him seem oddly out of place in Mantis colors, but Sachina had always found his appearance strangely exotic and appealing. Yoritomo Singh stroked his moustache absently. “We are virtually all that remains of the clan’s delegation to the Imperial Court,” he said. “Between us, you are the only real choice to lead the clan’s agenda in court. You should feel privileged.”

“But of course I do,” she said with a coy smile.

“Unfortunate that it should happen this way,” Singh said with a frown.

Sachina often found his moods inscrutable, but he was so sincere that she had begun to doubt he was capable of deliberate deception under any circumstances. “Whatever do you mean?”

“From my perspective, the only colleague who could ever truly have been a threat to you was Yoyonagi-sama. So of course, rather than attempt the infinitely slow and complex task of bringing her ruination, you caused her to be elevated,” Singh explained. “Now she is the Amethyst Champion, thanks in no small part to you, and far too busy with her own duties to interfere with your leadership here.”

“A position well-deserved,” Sachina noted. “For Yoyonagi-sama, I mean.”

“Naturally. Still, to see so many others elevated above their station while you remain here,” Singh shook his head. “I am certain it must be difficult. Minami, vassal of the Jade Champion. Yashinko working directly with the Imperial Treasurer. To many it must seem as though you have been left behind.”

Sachina’s warm expression faded into a cold glare. “Your point is well made, Singh. You are no simpleton, no oblivious pawn to be manipulated.” She fanned herself lightly. “Not that I ever mistook you for such, of course. I knew there was a courtier’s heart somewhere in there.”

“Of course,” Singh said. “I have heard the Empress is in attendance at the Imperial Palace as of a few days ago. Do you know when she will convene her court?”

“Not yet,” Sachina said. “They say her Winter Court will be convened at Kyuden Bayushi very shortly. It is possible she will not hold court here, but instead wait until then to make her first appearance.”

“Either way you will have very little time to find replacements for our absent colleagues,” Singh said.

“I am aware,” she said with a frown. “Most of our more promising prospects are in the Islands, assisting with the conclusion of the Amethyst Champion’s court.”

“Once, years ago, I had to assemble a patrol of guards during the city’s most raucous festival. It was a terrible struggle to find enough men sober enough to join me. This will be only slightly more difficult, I imagine.”

Sachina chuckled lightly. “Do you miss the Kingdoms, Singh-san?”

“Of course,” he answered. “But my path has led me here, and here I must remain until I am guided home once again.”

“We could always recruit Kekiesu,” she observed. “Perhaps she would remind you of home?”

“She reminds me of the parts of home I do not miss,” Singh said darkly. “I think we would be best served to leave her to her other duties.”

Sachina frowned at the comment, and began to pursue the matter, but the two were interrupted as another entered the chamber, and Sachina’s expression quickly changed. “Perhaps we should consider new possibilities,” she said, her voice practically a purr. “What would you say to the notion of attending the Winter Court, Kalani-san?”

Moshi Kalani frowned as he poured a cup of cool water. “I suppose I would ask the Fortunes why they would punish me so,” he said. “Court is not for such as me.”

“Oh, I think I disagree,” Sachina said. “I think that many of my counterparts in the other clans’ delegations would find you extremely… interesting.”

“What a pity I will be otherwise engaged,” Kalani said. “Lord Naizen-sama has delegated command of his personal fleet to me until further notice.”

Singh seemed alarmed at the news. “Is Lord Naizen ill?”

“He is not, praise the Thunderer.”

Sachina raised an eyebrow. “What has engaged his interest? Is it his new Kitsune bride?” She paused for a moment. “Speaking of which, the Kitsune are well-liked by everyone. Perhaps we should recruit from among their number to replenish our ranks.” Another pause. “Well-liked by everyone but the Crane, I suppose I should say.”

“What is the condition of the prophet?” Singh asked.

“There is a report from a minor magistrate in the area, Yoritomo Saburo, regarding the threat to the prophet,” Kalani said, “but it is somewhat… fanciful. He claims the threat is ended, but the details are difficult to believe.” He shrugged. “Regardless, we know that the prophet’s visions grow less frequent, and she has lapsed into brief periods of catatonia, much as many great seers and prophets before her have. It is the burden of her gift, I suppose.”

Sachina and Singh turned and began discussing Kalani’s unusually long revelation among themselves, and it seemed that neither noticed how the sailor had avoided answering the question regarding the Mantis Clan Champion.


Somewhere in the seas of Rokugan
For as far as Moshi Eihime could see in every direction, Mantis ships dotted the seas. The majority of the Second and Third Storms were assembled here, perhaps the largest collection of Mantis samurai in one place outside the islands since the War of Fire & Thunder. It made Eihime uneasy, although for admittedly unusual reasons.

“I know that look,” rumbled the Mantis Clan Champion.

“Forgive me, my lord,” she said. “I mean no disrespect.”

“Just come out with it,” Yoritomo Naizen said. “We have much to do today and I would prefer to spend as much of the day free of brooding subordinates as possible.”

Eihime gestured to take in the entire horizon. “Is this beneficial, Naizen-sama? Are we accomplishing anything?”

“The Thunder Dragon is weakened from its journey to the mortal realm,” Naizen said. “You saw that yourself. It needs time to replenish its strength, and then there will be no point in our defending it.”

“Is there any point now?” Eihime asked. “No one knows that Thunder now dwells within the mortal realm save for us, and we only know because of your link to it through the helmet you bear. No one would every find it except that there just happens to be a massive fleet seemingly located in the middle of the ocean for no apparent reason.” She shook her head. “We risk attracting attention. We are placing the dragon at greater risk.”

“Greater risk?” Naizen almost laughed. “There is almost nothing in the mortal realm that could threaten it in the first place! We are here to deflect threats that are not worth its attention or, if it comes to that, to briefly delay any threat that can pose a danger to it, so that it might have more time to flee.” He paused and considered for a moment. “Think of us as something of an… honor guard.”

Eihime pursed her lips. It was clear from her body language that she disagree, but she only bowed. “I follow your command, my Champion.” She was silent for a few moments after rising, then turned back over her shoulder. “How long does a thing such as the Thunder Dragon require to replenish its strength, do you suppose?”

“I have no idea,” Naizen replied honestly. “With the rather obvious exception of the Fire Dragon’s presence in the Imperial City last year, this is a completely unknown event. No one knows what to expect.”

“I saw that you had spoken to Sayoko.”

Naizen nodded. Moshi Sayoko was the head sensei of Tempest Island, the most prestigious of the Yoritomo family’s shugenja temples. “She believes that she has discovered a means of assisting the dragon,” he said. “The whole thing sounded completely foreign to me, but it had something to do with a ritual that would forge a bond between individual shugenja and the dragon, allowing each to draw on the power of the other. Hundreds of shugenja could lend their power to the dragon and give it strength, while individuals among their ranks could draw on a tiny fragment of its power, enough to give them incredible abilities while the dragon would scarcely notice the sensation.”

Eihime frowned. “That sounds dangerous, my lord, and risky. Does it not sound like the mingling of a mortal’s soul with that of a demon? Not that I compare the Thunder Dragon to a demon,” she added hastily, “but I would think the loss of self would be a terrible risk.”

“If possessing thunder in one’s soul is a risk, then all Mantis suffer from it already,” Naizen said.

“My lord!”

The shout came from the lookout that Naizen had stationed atop the tallest mast of his personal ship the man had lashed himself in place and spent the past few hours scanning the waters around the ship for any sign of disturbance. He would likely have baked in the sun if not for the crude shelter he had created by rigging a heavy cloth to keep the sun off of his head. “What is it?” Naizen roared up at him.

“The water, captain!” the man shouted back, forgetting the proper form of address in his obvious panic. “Something in the water!”

Naizen grabbed a heavy yari and stormed to the side, looking over into the choppy sea, hunting for any sight of something that might pose a threat. He swore at how murky the water was, allowing him only glimpses of movement amid the cloudy depths. “Can you clear the water?” he demanded.

“I command the winds, my lord,” Eihime answered, “not the seas.”

“I should have sent you to the capital and brought Kalani!” Naizen roared. “If I told him to find out what it was he would dive in with a knife in his teeth!”

“Be at ease, storm-soul human.” The strange voice bubbled up from the waters, distorted but completely comprehensible all the same. “We mean no harm. We seek the avatar of the Spawn Father. We sensed its arrival.”

“Who speaks?” Naizen demanded. “Show yourself!”

“As you like.” The waters churned for a moment, and an inhuman face appeared amid the waves, surfacing rapidly and revealing a green, finned body that was easily borne above the waves by the stirring of a powerful tail barely visible below the surface.

“Who are you?” Eihime asked, staring. “Are you…”

“Yes,” the creature answered. “I am Sakarah of the Ningyo, and we wish to join you in your defense of the avatar.”

* * *

The Phoenix

Whether or not the city of Toshi Ranbo was the largest in the Empire was a matter of some debate among those who were interested in such topics. A decade earlier none would ever have made such a claim, but since it had become the new Imperial City it had expanded at a rate that was simply staggering to witness for long-time residents. Some claimed that Toshi Ranbo had exceeded the size of Ryoko Owari Toshi, the largest city in the Scorpion lands, but most agreed that there was no way to be certain, and indeed many were of the opinion that it did not matter in the least.

Isawa Emori had always found himself in the latter group. He had enjoyed his stays in the Imperial City, although in all honesty there had only ever been one stay of note. Still, during the year that the Phoenix Clan had occupied the city, his status as the Master of Earth had placed him among the city’s highest ranking samurai, and he had enjoyed all the city had to offer. Although tales of the debauchery that were available in Ryoko Owari had always intrigued him, he suspected that the social environment there would be a bit more sinister than he would have found appealing.

“Emori-sama.”

He raised his eyebrows for a moment. “Hmm? Oh, yes. I apologize. Please, follow me.” In his musing, he had almost forgotten his guest. He smiled politely, and continued walking through the stacks of scrolls that filled this particular library. “I am sure he will be somewhere in… ah, yes. Here we are.”

The two shugenja had rounded a corner and discovered a middle-aged man sitting atop a large table, surrounded by dozens of scrolls, reading one and humming merrily to himself. The man was so engrossed that he did not appear to notice their approach. It would have seemed a comical scene, had Emori not seen the exact same thing at least a dozen times before. “Master Bairei?”

Asako Bairei looked up, and for once, he appeared to Emori to be both well rested and nourished. “Emori-san!” he said happily. “Do you know that the Miya have not only retained the cataloging system I implemented while we were guests in the city, but completed the process in this library and two others? What industrious people, those Miya! I miss the city terribly.”

“I am pleased to hear it, Bairei-san,” Emori said. “However, I have come on another matter. Have you spoken to Ochiai-sama since yesterday?”

“I do not believe so,” Bairei said, frowning slightly. Emori could easily imagine he was trying to determine what day it was. “Does she have need of me?”

“Not to my knowledge, no,” Emori continued. “She did, however, select a candidate to take the place of Tamori Nakamuro.”

“Ah,” said Bairei, his jubilant mood dissipating at once. “What a terrible loss. Such a brilliant mind and noble principles. I will miss him terribly.”

“As will we all,” the woman accompanying Emori said.

“Oh,” Bairei said. “Hello! I apologize. It was not my intent to be rude. I am Asako Bairei.”

“I know you, Master of Water,” the woman said with a slight smile. “I am a tremendous admirer of your work, my lord.”

“Bairei-san, this is Isawa Mitsuko. Ochiai-sama selected her as the new Master of Air. She is to sit upon the Elemental Council with us.”

“How delightful!” Bairei said. He rubbed his chin for a moment. “Your name sounds familiar to me, but… you will have to forgive me, my dear, but I am not as gifted with names as I am dates and facts. They just seem to… slip away.” He paused. “Until they pass away, of course. Once an individual is dead I seem to be able to recall virtually anything I learn about them. It really is quite peculiar and I wonder what it might say about my character…”

“Bairei,” Emori said gently. “Mitsuko-san is a student of Nakamuro’s, of course, and of Asako Juro as well.”

“A student of Juro’s, you say,” Bairei said. “Are you an Inquisitor?”

“I am,” Mitsuko replied. “Or I was. It may be that this responsibility will make my other duties impossible to continue.”

“An Inquisitor,” Bairei mused. “I suppose that explains the behavior of young Emori here!”

Mitsuko raised an eyebrow. “Oh?”

“Indeed. I do not believe I have ever been with him in the presence of a woman as lovely as yourself without him resorting to…”

“Bairei-san,” Emori interrupted, “I do have a request from Ochiai-sama.”

“Oh, of course,” Bairei said. “What is it the Master of Fire desires?”

“You have a greater historical perspective than the rest of us,” Emori continued. “She hopes that you will prepare your thoughts for her regarding the creation of this new Dynasty.”

“I would be delighted.” The older man’s face lit up noticeably. “Is it not glorious? I only wish that the entire Council could have been present at her coronation. It was most unorthodox, of course, but surely nothing of such substance has occurred in Rokugan since the dawn of the Empire.”

“It was a glorious day for the Empire,” Mitsuko agreed. “I only hope that the other clans will recognize the will of the Heavens when they see it. It is rare for most to show such awareness of the Celestial Order being made manifest.”

“I believe few who actually witnessed the event, or who find themselves in the presence of the Empress, will have room for doubt,” Emori added.

“Still,” the new Master of Air said, “I find myself with some doubts regarding the Empress’ closest advisors. Some among them seem to be of what I would consider questionable character.”

“We can but rest assured that our faith in the Empress is not misplaced,” Bairei said. “And there are many among her chosen advisors whose presence in which we can take comfort. Togashi Satsu is among the finest men I have ever known, and I understand that the new Shogun retained the services of Shiba Danjuro-san. That is the action of a wise man, in my estimation.”

“It is interesting that you should mention that, Bairei-sama,” Mitsuko said. “I had hoped for an opportunity to make inquiries of you related to your judgment of character.”

“Oh?”

“Indeed. That is why I asked Emori-san to introduce us. I require your counsel.”

Bairei smiled. “I would be happy to be of use.”

“I understand that you were one of those who worked with Juro-sama and sensei Isawa Sawao to develop the theory related to the destruction of the Dark Oracles, is that correct?”

“That is something of an overstatement,” Bairei said. “They did the greatest amount of the work. They simply asked me to look over their findings and verify them, which I happily did.”

“Still,” she persisted, “you are familiar with the work done thus far?”

“I am,” he confirmed. “The death of the Dark Oracle of Earth is reason for all Phoenix to celebrate. And, thus far, there is no indication whatsoever that there has been another manifestation of his power anywhere in the Empire.”

“You know of Isawa Mizuhiko, then.”

Bairei smiled again, but this time more wistfully. “A former student of mine, yes.”

“And what do you think of him?”

Bairei did not answer right away. He reached down to a bowl of water that sat next to him on the table, and trailed his finger through it, just barely grazing the surface. Images flickered in the water, many of the young priest Mizuhiko. “He is a good man. His will is strong, and his command over the kami considerable. There is a disquiet in his spirit, however, and I fear that it will cause him great difficulty before he heals the wound in his spirit.”

“Not all men are capable of healing spiritual wounds,” Mitsuko observed. “Would you not say that is correct, Emori-san?”

“I… what?” The Master of Earth seemed confused by the question.

“I hope it is not your intent to use your new position to facilitate an inquisition of dutiful Phoenix samurai undeserving of such attention,” Bairei said, his tone clear and his attention fully focused on the others. “Not only will I not assist in such an endeavor, I will not abide it either.”

“That is not my intent,” Mitsuko said with a slight bow. “I have heard specific rumors regarding Mizuhiko, and that is all. I wish to assure myself that there is nothing of substance regarding them.”

“Any allegations against other Phoenix that I can allay, I will gladly do so,” Bairei said. “I find them generally unfounded and without substance, as you say. Take, for instance, the case of Isawa Tokiko.”

Mitsuko frowned. “I am not familiar with that name, I fear.”

“A student of Shiba Ningen, Master of the Void,” Emori supplied. “Some have suggested that she is… less than stable. This is not an uncommon allegation with regard to the ishiken, of course.”

“Those who commune with the Void do occasionally present a problem,” Mitsuko acknowledged. “I am not familiar with such a case in at least a generation, however.”

“She was sent on a mission to the Mantis lands,” Bairei explained, “perhaps to rid Kyuden Isawa of her presence, perhaps not. Regardless, during the rash of assassinations against the Empire, it was Tokiko who saved the life of Tsuruchi Nobumoto while staying at Shiro Ashinagabachi. That single act has been a tremendous boon to our relationship with the Mantis Clan.” He held up a finger. “Do not be so quick to judge, Mitsuko-san. While we often bear heavy burdens for our rapport with the kami, we have also contributed greatly to the empire. Many live and prosper now, because we have had acted while others hesitated.”

Mitsuko bowed. “I will endeavor to live up to the example set by men such as yourselves, and by the Lady Ochiai.”

Bairei smiled and nodded. “That is all we could ask for.”

* * *

The Scorpion

For far too long, the Imperial Palace had seemed more like a tomb than an actual palace. The death of the Empress Toturi Kurako and most of her guardians during the attempt by the Unicorn Clan to seize control of the city a year and a half ago had left a terrible stain in the minds of many. That many attendants of the previous Imperial Court had been slaughtered on the balcony by hungry spirits likewise cast a shadow over the palace. Or at least it had until a few days ago.

The sight of the new Empress, the Divine Child of the Heavens, arriving in the city, protected by one thousand Seppun guards in their most splendid armor, had been a spectacle that none who saw it was ever likely to forget. Bayushi Norachai had wept at the sight of the Empress ascending the stairs to enter the Imperial Palace, and he had done so without shame. Like many of the city’s more jaded citizens, he had found himself questioning the validity of a Kitsuki ascending to the position. It seemed so… random. And yet when he had seen her, in that moment when she had turned and favored her subjects by gazing lovingly upon them, he had known. There was no miraculous parting of the heavens, as was rumored to have happened at Seppun Hill. She did not lay on hands and heal the sick. She simply smiled, and that was all that was required. There could be no mistaking that this was indeed the Divine Empress, and that the Heavens had endorsed her rule. It was in that moment that, for the first time since his friend and mentor, the previous Emerald Champion, had died that he felt true hope for the Empire.

Today followed behind the new Emerald Champion, saying nothing, as they entered the palace to meet with the Empress. The new champion was nothing like Yasuki Hachi, and at his direction, Norachai had embraced his disgraceful reputation, using it and other resources at his command to become a scourge of all who threatened the Scorpion. His life had purpose once more, one that had little to do with his position as Protector of the Imperial City, and he valued that purpose even as he loathed himself for it.

“Hisoka,” Shosuro Jimen called out as the two men walked down one of the broad hallways. It was one of the only times that Norachai could immediately recall hearing what appeared to be genuine happiness. “I believe congratulations are in order, my friends,” the Emerald Champion said. “The Imperial Chancellor? What a prestigious appointment! I can think of none more deserving.”

Bayushi Hisoka’s features twisted into a smile that Norachai was certain had thawed the hearts of hundreds of women. “Thank you, Jimen-san. I am quite sure we will be able to coordinate our efforts.”

Norachai noticed the other man farther along the corridor, and stepped out from behind Jimen to bow deeply. “Togashi Satsu-sama,” he said.

Satsu stopped and bowed to all three Scorpion. “Carry the Fortunes, friends,” he said. “Jimen-sama, Norachai-sama, it is a pleasure to see you again.”

“It is we who are honored to meet with the Voice of the Empress,” Jimen said, returning the bow. “We have come to pay our respects to the Empress and offer our services in whatever capacity she requires.”

Satsu nodded his head respectfully. “I have no doubt that the Empress will have need of the Emerald Champion and the Protector of the Imperial City, particularly when the positions are filled by such talented individuals such as yourself.”

“I look forward to it very much, as I am sure Norachai-san does as well,” Jimen said smoothly. “I have a few questions I wish to address to the Empress. They are relatively minor matters, but ones I feel warrant her attention.”

“That will not be possible.” Satsu’s tone was genuinely regretful. “The Empress does not grant audiences.”

Jimen seemed surprised, but only for a moment. “And I am certain we all agree that is wise, given the record of treachery against the throne in living memory. As you say, however, I am the Emerald Champion.”

“And I have no doubt that should the Empress require a duel fought on her behalf, a matter of law enforcement dealt with, or someone to command her legions in the absence of the Shogun, that she will call upon you, Jimen-sama, and that you will perform your duties with the efficiency that the entire Empire has come to respect. But none see the Empress unless she summons them. Those were her words.”

Jimen considered Satsu’s words. Norachai could see that the Emerald Champion was assessing what he clearly now considered a new threat. “And you are the only one permitted unrestricted access?”

“The Divine Empress selected me as her Voice,” Satsu said. “She chose me to carry her word to her people. Only those she specifically summons may have the privilege of hearing her divine voice. That is her will, not mine.”

“And how would one know that?” Jimen asked. “All I, or any of us, have to base that assumption on is your word. Imagine that your position and mine were exchanged. Would you feel comfortable with the possibility, however remote, that one man had usurped control of the Empire purely by restricting access to its ruler? I know the notion makes me most uncomfortable.”

Satsu smiled very slightly. “Call my honor into question if it pleases you to do so,” he said. “It affects me not at all. However, by implying that such an act is even possible against the Heavenly Dynasty calls into question the divinity of the Empress, and that is something I will not permit.”

“I see,” Jimen said. “How exactly do you propose to deal with such a thing, then? To challenge her personal champion to a duel because he fulfilled his mandate in inquiring after the Empress’ safety and well-being?”

Satsu’s features darkened very slightly, and Norachai was grateful when Hisoka interceded. “My lords,” he said smoothly, “I think we are all of us allowing our passion for our duties to overwhelm our senses. May I suggest that perhaps we discuss this matter on another day? I feel certain that when Jimen-sama speaks with the Empress in court, he will come to understand, as we have, that her will cannot be suborned to another’s. And, Satsu-sama, I trust that you will come to understand that the Emerald Champion is our ally in our defense of the Empress and her court, and as such is undeserving of our enmity.”

The two men stood staring at one another unflinchingly, and then Satsu bowed. “Forgive my defensiveness, Jimen-sama. I mean no disrespect to a man of your station.”

Jimen likewise bowed. “I fear I am a product of my times, Satsu-sama. I have seen too many Emperors come to an undeserved fate. If I overstep my boundaries, I apologize for my presumption.”

Satsu smiled. “I will inform each of you personally when the Empress intends to convene her first court. As you surely know, Hisoka-san has arranged for it to be held at Kyuden Bayushi this winter, but I feel certain the Empress will hold at least a brief session in the palace prior to her departure. I am certain she will wish to meet those who serve in her name, such as yourselves.”

“Thank you, Satsu-sama,” Norachai said, and watched the man depart.

“Forgive my intrusion,” Hisoka said. “However, I assure you that Satsu is not a man you wish as an enemy, my friend. Not even the great Shosuro Jimen would enjoy difficulty of the magnitude that would bring.”

“No, you were right to intervene,” Jimen said. “Satsu now feels somewhat apologetic for his actions, and views you as a more trustworthy colleague. It was well played, friend.”

Hisoka’s smile was warm. “I am certain I have no idea what you mean.” He bowed. “If you will excuse me, cousins, I have work to attend to. Paneki-sama desires a list of potential attendees as soon as possible, and I hope to have one prepared for him by the day’s end. Carry the Fortunes.”

“And you as well,” Norachai said.

“Well that was certainly interesting,” Jimen remarked as the two departed. He seemed genuinely entertained by the entire affair. “I imagine that the political environment here in the capital will become much more amusing from this point forward. It will be most enjoyable!” He glanced along the corridor to ensure that no one else was around. “While I have your ear, Norachai, there is another matter that will require your unique talents. There is a merchant patron in town, affiliated loosely with the Ide, who has been interfering with a number of vital clan endeavors along the Lion border. I have a notion as to how it might be handled, and I think it is something at which you would excel. Perhaps we can discuss it over…”

“No.”

Jimen stopped, raising one eyebrow. “Excuse me?” he said quietly.

“No more,” Norachai said. “I was a weak-minded fool to ever sell my soul so cheaply.” He glanced back down the corridor to where the Empress’ private chambers remained. “No more. My honor may be gone, but that does not mean I cannot reclaim it.”

Far from seeming angry, Jimen actually chuckled. “You cannot possibly be serious. Redemption? You?”

“We shall see,” Norachai said. “If any on your list of targets are criminals operating or even residing temporarily within the Imperial City, then give me their names and they will cease to be an issue. Not because I have had them disposed of, but because I will have executed my duties and held them accountable for their actions.” He paused and glanced out of one of the windows at the city beyond. “I will cleanse this city of all unworthy of the Empress’ presence, even if I must burn entire sections of it to do so. I will be the Protector of the Imperial City, perhaps for the first time.”

“You know,” Jimen mused after a few moments’ consideration, “I had given up all hope that you would ever find that steel hidden within you.” He chuckled again. “That day some months ago when we had our… conversation? I had wondered if it would surface, or be submerged forever. I thought you had been lost. That would have been perfectly fine, really, as I have enjoyed a pawn of your skill. Now, however,” he trailed off. “Now I suppose we shall have to see what comes of it.”

“I suppose we shall.”

The two men continued down the hallway. After a short distance, incredibly, Jimen began to hum a merry tune. “This really has been a fantastic day. I cannot remember being surprised so many times in one day in years.”

Anger bubbled to the surface in Norachai’s mind. “Life is not a game, Jimen-sama.”

“And that is where you are mistaken,” the Emerald Champion corrected. “When you understand that, truly understand it, on that day you will have achieved your true potential, Norachai.”

[Soshi Yabu]

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