The Twelve Kingdoms: A Thousand Leagues of Wind

citizens of Kei to become. We are all the captains of our own souls. And that command begins with holding our heads high in the presence of others."
    She finished speaking and looked out over the audience of ministers, bureaucrats, and functionaries. "You have asked me down which path I wish to lead this kingdom. Have I given you a sufficient enough answer?"
    Only their eyes looked back at her. No voices responded.
    "By your assent, then, the act of kowtowing is hereby abolished. This I proclaim as my Inaugural Rescript!"

The Chronicles of Kei
The Annals of the Red Child
    n the Second Month of the Second Year of Sekiraku, a Revolt arose in the City of Takuhou, Shisui Prefecture, Wa Province. The Prefectural Governor, Seki On, a cruel Tyrant, lusted after Wealth, burdened the People with heavy Taxes, waxed full of Pride, and ruled the Countryside by the Sword.
    The Peasantry feared and resented the Tyrant even as they served Him, seeing and hearing no Evil, yet holding Malice in their Hearts.
    At long last, in the Second Month, the publically-spirited Citizens of Takuhou raised the Banner of Shu On and rebelled. The Province Lord of Wa set forth to destroy Takuhou. Supporting Him in this Course of Action, the Taisai forged Orders and dispatched Troops to Takuhou.
    Her Highness, by Means of those same Soldiers, struck back at the Marquis, stripped the Taisai of His Rank and Privileges, and brought Peace to Takuhou.