Crab alliance

[Stephen Muray]

Joe Fulgham wrote:
> 
> > It merely says that it was Mantis built ships, not
> > that it was the Mantis.
> 
> "The attack had been unexpected, confirming rumors that the Mantis had been
> secretly aiding the Crane. Crane vessels were typically clumsy and crude.
> Only with Yoritomo-built ships could the Crane have traveled so far, so
> quickly."
> 
>   I seriously doubt the Crane *stole* the Mantis ships.

Crane would be unable to make the ships function at their peak
efficiency, though now that they have access to the Yasuki it may be a
possibility.  The Mantis know no loyalty, however, the dogs will follow
anyone for as long as the koku is shining.

As the "Clan of Loyalty", such mercenary tendencies are extremely
distasteful to us.
 
> > The only problem I can see with having the Mantis help
> > is if the Scorpion find out.  They, after all, don't
> > particularly like the Mantis's current Champion.
> 
>   He's been dealt with.  See
> http://www.deathseeker.com/article.pl?sid=01/08/27/1741203
> 
>   But they probably don't like the new Champion either.  Poor, poor Mantis.

Indeed.  One goal has been achieved, but there are still many Mantis
that need to be cut down and reminded of their place.
 
>   And as I said before, you can't help us out because you've got your own
> war to deal with.  We can't help you out because we've got our own war to
> deal with.

To divide your strength when you are facing the enemy is a poor way to
win a war.  Pukku-sama is correct.  Focus yourselves on the task at
hand.

Bayushi Ichiro
Scorpion Clan Shugenja