To the ones I love...to my beloved father, Red Rain, and my mother, Moon...

I cannot think on the dishonour I have brought upon my family, the Clan of Golden Lanterns. My father was the last in a long line of Kumyiwei - special agents of the King. Now that line is broken. I face the wall of a dank Kamakura dungeon. The floor is covered with straw, and a narrow window lets in a sickly, yellow light.

My request to see the Shogun is denied, but then I have no authority or renown in these lands. I am not surprised by my treatment. My fists clench and my eyes pan the cell. The dark corners of the prison do not betray any hidden inmates; I am not certain whether or not I am alone. I have once heard of a race of demon-warriors in these lands that can perceive disturbances in the air and sense the presence of others without seeing them. The Clan of Golden Lanterns is considerably gifted in speed and martial arts skill, and we have sight keener than most, but we are not possessed of the same senses as the demon-warriors.

My mind wanders from my dishonour to the fate of my ship...another thought I can barely tolerate. Let them take the boat, the money, and every other precious piece of cargo, but I beg of the gods and my noble forebears, do not let them find the sword!