The death of Soshi Moriko is a tragedy. Her death encompasses the crisis here in Rokugan in a single life and death. Moriko’s life was dedicated to her poetry. Her poetry brought joy to her readers and her observations of everyday life gave insight into one’s inner soul. In death this flame of vibrant life has been snuffed out, extinguished by those who lack the wisdom to truly understand her words. Moriko’s brutal death, to silence those who seek to strengthen Rokugan, has not weakened our resolve but has strengthened it.
See what it is that this nation faces? A gang of political assassins who choose to strike at those who cannot defend themselves. These so-called “manslayers,” supposedly unbeatable assassins who deliver heaven’s punishment on those that they disagree with, have succeeded in killing only the defenseless. Their victims include a pair of merchants, neither warriors of great renown, and a humble poet, whose words have been about the wonders and joy of simple everyday life. These cowards seek to silence the men of virtue through fear, but we shall not be cowed!
The spirit that drives us onwards towards a future of a stronger Rokugan, a Greater Rokugan, exists in the hearts of each Rokugani. These extremists that seek to divide us and lead us down a path of darkness shall not succeed. We shall overcome, we shall preserve through this struggle. We are Rokugani, adherents of the code of Bushido, and we are not afraid! For the Empire! Long Live the Emperor!
誠 Makoto
