Noriko,

I'm hoping that when this meeting is over, I'll be able to come back to the embassy ship and burn this letter, but if you're reading this I presume I wasn't able to for one reason or another. I will only hope that if so, it's because matters have gotten complicated and require me to stay away for a long period of time and not because I am no longer alive to.

There's a chance I might not be. It's not one I like to think of.

Please take care of Min for me. He's the only person in this world to me more precious than you and I worry what he'll do to himself without me. Make sure he eats and that he's wearing something that isn't rags. Be his friend. He needs more of those.

If we never see each other again, my lady, please know this: I love you. Given the choice, I would live my life by your side. Not as a lover, but as the dearest friend of my heart. If we are to be parted, please know that you were loved, unreservedly and wholeheartedly, and that you still are, wherever I may be.

I remain,
your Chouko