Munemori,

I have given your offer much consideration. I must confess that I have been of two minds on the matter. Often I have considered simply approaching the Emperor and allowing you and all those who share your philosophy to suffer his wrath in exchange for the resulting favor I would gain in his eyes -- I know you have calculated this possibility, thus your reluctance to reveal the identities of your allies.

The truth, however, is that Naseru took no action to end the war within my clan after he became Emperor. He curried favor with both sides so that he would seem stronger regardless of who emerged victorious. These are the actions of a man whose alliance shifts by the moment, seeking nothing more than that which offers the greatest advantage.

What finer example for a Clan Champion than the Emperor himself? I too, shall seek the greatest advantage, and that advantage no longer lies with an Emperor whose Champion hunts my ships across the seas when we have committed no crimes.

Take my words to your masters, Munemori. If they would treat me as an equal, then I will join them in their cause. Understand, however, that this arrangement shall endure only so long as it benefits me. I am the Daughter of Storms. I will not be your pawn.

If you think otherwise, better that you do not respond. The Mantis Clan is not an enemy wise men make.

Yoritomo Kumiko