From the Ascendant's Shadow
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From the Ascendant's Shadow is a book found in the Ministry of Archives at Soojung Heights of New Kaineng City.
There is much to be said about the repetitious nature of history. A few hundred years ago, Master Togo was born to Emperor Kintah and his mother, Yuki. While not a legitimate heir, Togo still served Cantha to his fullest and died in that service at the hands of Shiro Tagachi. Today, Lady Joon, a prodigy in her fields of expertise, shines as a beacon of modern Canthan society. An example for the self-made modern woman and an inspiration to the young and inquiring minds of this age.
In this dual-biography, two Canthan icons—one of the past and one of the present—are explored in full detail, opening with a transcription of Lady Joon and myself from an interview on TCR, The Canthan Report, that took place last year.
Tsui: Lady Joon, thank you for speaking with me today and for your continued support of the Ministry of Archives.
Joon: As I say, education—learning is a great equalizer. It's the least I can do.
Tsui: Something both you and Master Togo both believed, though, perhaps in different ways.
Joon: True. Though Xunlai Jade isn't in the business of training storied heroes. Not yet, anyway. (laughs)
Tsui: (laughs) Who knows? In my book, I touch on the differences between your early years and Master Togo's early years, and while most can find biographies on Togo at their own leisure, I was wondering if you might share some of your perspective?
Joon: (sighs) Let me think. There are the indirect familial connections, of course. Emperor Kintah was fond of Yuki and their son—at least, enough for them to enjoy the privileges of palace life. Emperor Taejeong—my father—did not extend that same...generosity, whatever his reasons.
Tsui: And his successor?
Joon: (clears throat) Her majesty, Empress Ihn, has shown me a great deal of...consideration, given my achievements through my scientific and business pursuits. We both wish to see Cantha thrive in the modern era, and we both know that means change is inevitable. Politics aside, I am grateful for our relationship.
Tsui: Of course. Moving on, what would you define as Master Togo's greatest achievement—his legacy—and what does it mean to you?
Joon: A great question. I imagine most probably say it was his sacrifice to protect his half-brother, Emperor Kisu. My answer may disappoint some, but I would have to say his work as a diplomat during the Tengu Wars. His actions during the Tengu Accords prevented what could have been an even greater tragedy. For a time, at least.
Tsui: Is that in reference to the actions of the Ministry of Purity?
Joon: Who else? I haven't kept tabs on other ministerial efforts to make amends after the civil war, but I have invested some number of resources into outreach efforts. For now, I can say that I employ many tengu at Xunlai Jade, and that their perspectives, experiences, and talents are important not just to me and my business but also to our nation's success.
