Day 7 - Otosan Uchi

The Emperor's city spreads before her, Unicorn banners waving from the guardposts of the broken towers. It is enough to see it once more. Hitomi does not look to the side as she steps through the suddenly silent streets. The bustling peasants scurry to fall at her feet.

Here, Shinsei has called them.

Her feet tread upon the dust of the ground, over the bustling river's wide banks, and through the great gates of the inner city. The armies of the Emperor, those who had turned to the side of the Empire before the Shadow could take their name, look at her as she passes. Their eyes are empty. Courage has not been enough to save their companions, their brothers-at-arms, their Lord. Perhaps one of them will be worthy to lift his or her eyes to the heavens . . . and understand. The city spreads wide around them, enfolding them in ancient arms.

Here, Togashi Yokuni has led them.

The empty throne of Jade rests upon its tall dais, covered with a sheet of gold and green. Her black hand shivers as she lifts the flag and draws it from the throne, letting the jade shine in the faint light of the morning. Even mighty Shinjo stands to one side, watching as the woman stands half in one world and half in another.

And here, he has died.

Hantei.

Fu Leng.

. . . Toturi. Where has the Shadow taken you?

"The soul of the Empire rests in one man's heart." Hitomi turns in sorrow, and is gone.

Source: posted to www.wizards.com/l5r on 1/28/00