Mitsurugi Steps Down

Day 909, 10:59 • Published in Japan Japan • by Reiji Mitsurugi

Here I am, every day, buried in paperwork, with a very unpleasant expression on my face.

Friends, I don't write in this newspaper very much anymore. And that's just too bad. I love the Ashigaru Taishou. Writing regular articles in this paper and seeing the fantastic responses of the public is what got me into the Japanese government to begin with. Publishing my philosophies and watching people discuss and debate them, as well as getting involved myself, that's where this all began. Now, that's where this all must end.

I am hereby announcing the end of my career in the Japanese government. I am stepping down as Minister of Foreign Affairs. I also announce the end of my military career. I am resigning my commission in all branches of the Japanese Imperial Forces. Lastly, it is the end of my political career. And I therefore resign my position as Vice Chairman of the Imperial Sun Party.

It begs, of course, the question, why? Many reasons. Political disagreements, philosophical disputes, pessimistic futurism, and who could forget simple ennui. This war with South Korea, though, was the final straw that broke this old camel's back. I still believe what I wrote to Arjay Phoenician, that I have a responsibility to work for the government and the military, as I swore to do. That's why I gave both departments several weeks' notice. The President has been preparing my replacement and our Generalissimo has been aware of my intention to step down for some time as well. Japan will remain in good hands, I have seen to that.


A fine likeness. Heaven knows I deserve it.

This is not the last of me, of course. The end of one chapter is but the beginning of another. Two things are in store for me. The first is my armchair. I will return to the political philosophy I so enjoyed, maybe to inspire a new generation of Japanese politicians. A whole new series of Mitsurugi treatises will be due in the coming months. Further, I've heard the idea of a university to educate our more curious citizens bandied about. I certainly do enjoy teaching.

But most importantly, I am turning myself over to the Imperial Household. The only icon left in Japan that I can truly serve unwaveringly is His Majesty the Emperor. Governments will come and go, but His reign is everlasting. The next time I take up arms, it will be in His service. The next action will be for His glory. I have long called myself the First Servant of the Emperor. Now is the time for me to act like one.

Until next time, Japan.