We, the Lion, have known the shame of our actions, yet we have known the strength of courage in the face of oppression. I swear this to you as your brother and as your commander: we will not fail.

The portents are bad, and I know the oni gather an army far to the south. Though the other clans speak of tactics and reserves, I alone know the truth in this land of shadows and Taint: the only true strategy is to face your enemy on solid ground and carve your path step by step. Only the Lion have the strength to carve the path that the armies of the Empire must follow. The Crab know the way to Volturnum, but too many years behind a wall of iron and stone have weakened their samurai. Only we know how to charge into an enemy's lines and shatter them like so many pieces of broken glass.

Lead the charge, children of Matsu. Serve well, Ikoma and Kitsu, and hold the line. In your hearts remember the fallen, those whose names are as lost as those who fight for the Goju. This may be our final battle, but I will not die without our Kami's name on my lips. Beneath the watchful gaze of our nameless ancestors, we must not let our courage die.

There is no other choice.

-Kitso Motso