A Strange Letter for Asahina Hoshiko

[Cearnach]

A letter, unsigned and delivered by no messenger, appears in the genkan of House Yamada, from whence it is borne to Asahina Hoshiko by a trembling servant wearing gloves. The writing is fairly non-descript, but the sensation of touching the paper is like dipping your hand into a cool, still pond.

Asahina-san,

We have received news of your appointment to this year's delegation to Winter Court with some relief. It is never easy to overcome prejudice, and there are many who are concerned about an over-abundance of dire portents at court this year, but when one has sacrificed much already, one finds that there are those who are willing to open doors that might well have remained closed to others.

Your burdens have been many and weighty, and yet your shoulders will bear much more before your time is done. It is right, therefore, that you receive some support. Present this letter to Kitsu Shintaro. He will understand its import. We believe that you will have much to share with one another before the court is through.

Be strong, be courageous, but above all, be patient,

There is no signature, but the kanji for 'water' has been traced onto the page

[Asahina Hoshiko]

snip

Hoshiko traces the strokes of the signature kanji, right forefinger hovering above the ink, imagining (?) a chill radiating from the dark ink. Looking thoughtful, she folds the letter with deferential care and tucks it into her obi. With a slow side-eye, she asks her great-something grandmother "You have anything to do with this one?"

Probably not, but ancestors and Kitsu and...well that was one possible connection. Certainly there were plenty of professional reasons to approach the Kitsu delegates at court, and a little time to do some research.

*voice-over as the scene fades: Hoshiko's voice, "wait...he's that Kitsu!"