Clans and Families of Rokugan

Auxiliary File for Legend of the Five Rings RPG, Third Edition V 2.2

Created by Adi Zeller (AKA Callimachus) The file before you started its way as a way for me to introduce the Legend of the Five Rings game, and particularly the secondary world it inhabits to my group. In its original form it was based on materials I found in the book “Rokugan”, written by Rich Wulf, Shawn Carman, and Seth Mason, which introduced the game to the d20 system which I played at the time. When the Third Edition of the L5R game came out it was natural for me to move on with the setting I have grown to love, and this file changed direction, now converting itself to the rules and frameworks of the new edition of the d10 system. This file is not intended to replace any of the books of the L5R game. Nor do I claim any ownership of the images or terms used here. I intend no infringement of copyrights. It is meant merely as a tool to help GMs introduce players to the game and help navigate in its supplements. If the people at AEG feel that this file has infringed in any way on their rights, please inform me and I will rectify the situation. In the creation of the file I have relied upon the aforementioned “Rokugan” as well as the “Legend of the Five Rings Roleplaying Game: Third Edition”. References made to other 3rd edition sources are explained in the Sigla at the last page of this file. I would like to thank Mikael Brodu (AKA Otaku Mike) for his suggestions and assistance in regard to this file.

What Is This File? This file lists all Clans and factions, playable, and unplayable in the Legend of the Five Rings Roleplaying game and gives references to each of the character options available to each in the 3rd edition of the game. Each entry gives a general description of the Clan or Faction, and then lists the Families or orders within it. Each section concludes with a list of available schools, paths, advanced schools, and dojo for those schools. Those who follow the Legend of the Five Rings Storyline (which appears weekly in the L5R website http://www.l5r.com), and the events of the CCG would notice that some of the information here, especially in regard to the Crane, Dragon, Mantis, and Fox Clans, and the Nezumi, is not up to date with the storyline. This is not a mistake. In order to make this book usable to as many people as possible, including followers of the RPG who do not follow the storyline weekly, I decided to include only material included in the published RPG books. That said, I certainly want to encourage all who can to access the L5R website and catch the latest weekly fictions. I tried to make the file as accessible and easy to navigate and understand as I could. Any suggestions for improvement are welcome at callimachus@gmail.com (although I do not promise to use them). A Note on Vassal Families Most of the Great Clan (and some of the Minor Clan) families have families of ji-samurai who serve them. These families are either former Ronin families who were adopted into the Clan or people who served the Clan exceptionally and were allowed to create their own family. These families are not usually recognized outside the Clan, and people from those families identify themselves as members of the family they serve to outsiders (perhaps adding their clan family as a house, e.g. Miya Noriko of House Anou). General rules for the creation of Vassal Family characters can be found in Emerald Empire p. 73. I have decided to include Vassal Families in this file and each of them follows the family it serves, marked in Italics. Other Vassal Families have been mentioned in previous L5R sources, but I have included here only those who have mention in the 3rd edition of the RPG. A Note on Dojos The concept of the Dojo first appeared in 3rd edition in the Art of the Duel, but dojos were not given actual mechanical meaning until Emerald Empire came out. I have decided to include all the dojos that appeared in 3rd edition, but one should realize that as of yet, only those that appeared in Emerald Empire have mechanical significance, schools associated with dojos from Art of the Duel are pure conjecture on my part and should not be considered canon or binding in any way. General rules concerning Dojos appear in Emerald Empire p. 187.

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The Great Clans The Crab Clan The descendants of the Hida, the strongest of the Kami, and his followers have taken it upon themselves to guard the Emerald Empire's border with the Shadowlands. They are the least courteous of the clans, preferring a directness that seems to be abrasive and curt to other samurai, over the elaborate etiquette that rules the society of the upper class of Rokugan. They have a hot temper and a raucous sense of humour that serves little to endear them on other clans. Despite that, they are the most dutiful group of people in all of Rokugan, knowing that if ever the wall they guard falls, so does the Empire. The Crab are not a trusting bunch, but once you have a Crab ally, you will be hard pressed to find a more loyal and dependable one. They also bear long-lasting grudges, and once betrayed they never forgive nor forget. The Crab respect strength above all, be it physical, mental, or magical, and hate the Shadowlands and all that hails from there with a passion. Clan colours – gunmetal grey, blue, brick red. Hida – The ruling family of the Crab are among the finest warriors of the Empire. Loyal, just and fierce, they are deeply respected by the other families of the clan (L5R 3rd ed. p. 46).

Moshibaru – This family educates and inducts those samurai who join the Crab thanks to Twenty Goblin Winters (EE p. 75).

Hiruma – This family forms the advance scouts of the Crab Clan, trained to move swiftly and tirelessly through hostile terrain, to discover as soon as possible any hostilities from the Shadowlands (L5R 3rd ed. p. 46).

Raikuto – this ancient vassal family was the first to represent the interests of the Crab in the Imperial Court (EE p. 75)

Kaiu – The greatest architects, siege masters and analysts in Rokugan. They are pragmatic, but intensely loyal to the Crab Clan, and it is often said that as long as there are Kaiu to maintain it, the Carpenter Wall (between the Empire and the Shadowlands) shall never fall (L5R 3rd ed. p. 46).

Maisuna – masters of the quarries of the Crab Clan, the Maisuna are responsible for producing the materials for the maintenance of the Great Wall, as well as most other works of Crab masonry (EE p. 74)

Kuni – The spiritual and religious centre of the Crab Clan, the Kuni are among the most feared families in Rokugan. They study Maho and the effects of the Shadowlands taint with analytical detachment, to better understand the enemy, but because of their proximity to Shadowlands have produced more Black practitioners than all other shugenja families combined (L5R 3rd ed. p. 47).

Ugawari – This family is charged with the capture of Shadowlands beasts and monsters for the Kuni to study (EE p. 75)

Toritaka – The former Falcon Clan was absorbed into the Crab Clan a few decades ago, after their lands were badly damaged in a Black Magic catastrophe. The Toritaka are phantom and ghost hunters, experts on the supernatural and the Spirit Realms. Quiet, reserved, and observant,

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they seem to know no fear, the other Crab often joke that it is the Toritaka themselves who are ghosts (L5R 3rd ed. p. 47). Yasuki – The Yasuki are the public face of the Crab Clan, and its chief financers. The Yasuki are one of the greatest merchant families of Rokugan, and without them the Crab would not have been able to finance their war against the Shadowlands. Formerly a Crane family, the Yasuki have defected to the Crab centuries ago. But when the last Daimyo died with no heir control of the family reverted to the Crane. As many Yasuki refused to leave the Crab, a compromise was reached that made the family the only one divided between two clans, and its Daimyo the only man in the Empire who swore fealty to two clans. This situation, however, has been compromised with the death of Yasuki Hachi, the Yasuki Daimyo, heirless, and the future of the Yasuki is unclear (L5R 3rd ed. p. 47). Clan Schools: Ancestral Hiruma School (AKA Hiruma Lost

Techniques) [Bushi] (SchUp p. 2) The Kaiu Engineer [Bushi] (4W p. 147) Kuni Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 120)

Damned Berserker [Bushi] (SchUp p. 2) Kuni Witch Hunter [Bushi] (SchUp p. 3) Hida Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 119 see also

Errata and FAQ) Toritaka Bushi School (SchUp p. 4) Yasuki Courtier School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 120 see

also Errata and FAQ) Hida Berserker School [Bushi] (SchUp p. 2) Hida Wrestler [Bushi] (AotD p. 28) Yasuki Taskmaster [Bushi] (SchUp p. 4) Hiruma Scout School [Bushi] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 121) Clan Paths:

Tokaji's Might [Bushi] (SchUp p. 5) Dead-Eyed Berserker [Bushi] (SchUp p. 5) Tokaji’s Power [Bushi or Shugenja] (SchUp p. 5) Hida Elite Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 5) Tsuru Legion [Bushi] (4W p. 15) Hiruma Grappler [Bushi] (AotD p. 31) Yasuki Peacekeeper [Bushi] (4W p. 15) [ELP] Hiruma Stalker [Ninja] (4W p. 15) Yasuki Sumai [Courtier] (AotD p. 32) Kuni Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 31)

Tetsubo Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 31) Clan Advanced School: Crab Sumai [Bushi] (AotD p.29) Hida Defender [Bushi] (AotD p. 30) Hida Avenger School [Bushi] (4W p. 7) Clan Dojos: First Strike Dojo [Hida Bushi School, Hiruma Grappler, Hiruma Stalker, Hiruma Scout School] (EE p. 188,

AotD p. 23) Kuni Duellist Dojo [Kuni Duellist, Kuni Shugenja School] (AotD p. 25) Razor Edge Dojo [Hida Bushi School, Hida Defender, Kaiu Engineer, Hida Avenger School, Tsuru Legion,

Yasuki Peacekeeper] (EE p. 188) Stone Tower Dojo [Crab Sumai, Hida Wrestler, Hiruma Grappler, Yasuki Sumai] (AotD p. 22) Unbreakable Blade Dojo [Hida Defender, Tetsubo Duellist] (AotD p. 23) Wastelands Temple [Kuni Shugenja School, Kuni Duellist] (EE p. 189)

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The Crane Clan Those descended of Doji, the most beautiful of the Kami, and her followers are the most powerful and wealthiest clan in Rokugan. The Crane believe in perfection and excellence. They believe that an action that cannot be executed well, should not be taken, and that any action worth taking should be executed with excellence. The most courteous and sophisticated of the clans, the Crane are the guardians of Rokugani culture and traditions. They tend to think in extremes – they either love something, or despise it. And while not more prone to emotional outbursts than any other samurai, they have a certain joy for life that accompanies them always. The Crane respect those who maintain high standards in everything they do, those who fall short are unworthy of attention. The Crane are considered to be the most beautiful of all the people of Rokugan. It is customary among many of them (especially the Daidoji) to bleach their hair white or sky blue. Clan colours – sky blue, white. Asahina – The spiritual centre of the Crane Clan, the Asahina family is a pacifistic family of shugenja. Many of them refuse to touch weapons, even in defence of their lives, and most see the use of destructive magic as a perversion of the kami. The Shadowlands, however is an exception to this, as the Asahina, in their proximity to the Shadowlands realize full well the threat and evil of the Oni, the spawn of Jigoku, and combat them constantly. In recent years a faction within the Asahina has forsaken the ancient pacifistic traditions of the family (L5R 3rd ed. p. 48). Daidoji – The “Defenders of Doji”, as their name translates, are the military wing of the Crane Clan. Even though the Crane Clan's army is far from the largest in Rokugan, it is the dedication of the Daidoji and their subtlety and drive for excellence that have allowed the Crane to stand up to the superior armies of the Lion and the Crab and come out victorious (L5R 3rd ed. p. 48).

Hiramori – This isolationist Vassal Family trains its members to fight in hostile and diverse terrains (EE p. 77)

Doji – The ruling family of the Crane is the wealthiest and most influential family in all of Rokugan. The Doji is an extremely traditional samurai family with emphasis on etiquette and courtly lives. The Doji epitomize the Crane drive for excellence, and symbolize perfection even to their enemies and rivals. The Doji have always maintained close ties with the Imperial Families, and during the reign of the Hantei it was traditional for the Emperor to choose a Doji wife (L5R 3rd ed. p. 49).

Katogama – This family serves as a secret police of sorts, discreetly monitors and investigates for signs of betrayal or heresy within the Crane Clan (EE p. 77) Tsume – This family serves as a militant wing of the Doji family (EE p. 78)

Kakita – Art, beauty, and perfection are the driving force of the Kakita. But don't mistake them – they are not a group of hedonistic poets – they are the deadliest Iaijitsu Masters the Empire has to offer. This is a family dedicated to hope, honour and the sword (L5R 3rd ed. p. 50)

Ashidaka – This family produces the great swordsmiths of the Crane Clan, and manufactures the famed Kakita blades (EE p. 77)

Yasuki – The smallest family of the Crane is dedicated to trade. Originally a Crane family, the Yasuki have defected to the Crab centuries ago. But when the last Daimyo died with no heir

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control of the family reverted to the Crane. As many Yasuki refused to leave the Crab, a compromise was reached that made the family the only one divided between two clans, and its Daimyo the only man in the Empire who swore fealty to two clans. This situation, however, has been compromised with the death of Yasuki Hachi, the Yasuki Daimyo, heirless, and the future of the Yasuki is unclear (L5R 3rd ed. p. 50). Clan Schools: Asahina Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 122) Doji Magistrate School [Bushi] (4W p. 152) Daidoji Harrier School [Bushi] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p.

124) The Kakita Artisan [Courtier] (AotD p. 41) Kakita Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 122 see also

Errata and FAQ) Daidoji Yojimbo School [Bushi] (4W p. 151) Doji Courtier School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 123 see also

Errata and FAQ) Clan Paths:

Doji Elite Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 6) Asahina Archer [Bushi] (SchUp p.6) Empress' Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 6) Asahina Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 45) Hoturi's Blade [Bushi] (SchUp p. 6) Asahina Sohei [Shugenja] (4W p. 15) Master of Ikebana [Courtier] (AotD p. 46) Daidoji Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 45) Master of Wits [Courtier] (AotD p. 46) Daidoji Heavy Regulars [Bushi] (SchUp p. 6) Master of Poetry [Courtier] (AotD p. 46) Daidoji Iron Warrior [Bushi] (4W p. 15) Tsume Pikeman [Bushi] (SchUp p. 6) [ELP] Daidoji Trading Council [Courtier] (SchUp p. 6) [ELP] Yasuki Courtier [Courtier] (4W p. 16) [ELP] Doji Arbiter [Courtier] (AotD p. 46)

Clan Advanced Schools: Doji Rhetorician [Courtier] (AotD p. 44) The Kenshinzen [Bushi] (4W p. 7) Doji Gamester [Courtier] (AotD p. 44) Clan Dojos: Asahina Duellist School [Asahina Duellist, Asahina Shugenja School] (AotD p. 38) The Kakita Academy [Kakita Artisan, Kakita Bushi School, Kenshinzen, Master of Ikebana, Master of Poetry]

(EE p. 190, see also descriptions of its two branches: Kakita Duelling Academy AotD p. 34, and Kakita Artisan Academy AotD p. 36)

Mountain’s Shadow Dojo [Daidoji Duellist, Daidoji Harrier School, Daidoji Iron Warrior, Daidoji Yojimbo School] (EE p. 190)

Shizuka Toshi [Doji Arbiter, Doji Courtier School, Doji Magistrate School, Doji Rhetorician, Master of Wits] (EE p. 190, see also Doji Courtier Academy AotD p. 37, and The Master of Wits AotD p. 39)

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The Dragon Clan Descended of Togashi, the most enigmatic of the Kami, and his followers, the Dragon is the most isolated and mysterious of the Great Clans. Living in the far north of the Empire and keeping mostly to themselves, the Dragon rarely choose to intervene with the goings on in Rokugan. The Dragon, more than any other clan, is engaged with the search for Enlightenment. Dragon Bushi specialize in the use of two weapons at once, and Dragon Shugenja are the most militant in the Empire. But the truly mysterious facet of Dragon culture is the existence of the three orders of tattooed monks who serve the clan from its very creation. Clan colours – emerald green, yellow. Order of Hitomi, Lady of the Moon – The warrior-monks of the Order of Hitomi, known as kikage-zumi, are among the most feared people in Rokugan. More sinister and threatening than the other two orders, they are poorly understood, even by themselves. This is the youngest of the orders of the Dragon, dating back less than two generations. Unlike the other two orders of tattooed men, tattoos often appear spontaneously on the skin of the kikage-zumi (L5R 3rd ed. p. 51). Order of Hoshi, the Celestial Wanderer – By far the smallest of tattooed orders, the Hoshi, known as tsurai-zumi, balance the sinister nature of the Hitomi with the mystery of the Togashi. Far more reclusive than the other two orders, few outside the Dragon are even aware of their existence. The tsurai-zumi seek enlightenment through moderation and balance, and not conflict (L5R 3rd ed. p. 51). Kitsuki – This family is known for its pursuit of justice. The magistrates of the Kitsuki are known throughout the Empire. They have provided the Dragon and the Empire with ambassadors and investigators ever since their creation, and their presence in a court is believed to be the most effective tool against all illicit activity, as they are renowned for their tenacity in seeking criminals and bringing them to justice. They Kitsuki pride themselves for their open demeanour and appearance (L5R 3rd ed. p. 52).

Sakura – This family of investigators specialize in resisting all forms of corruption, mundane and spiritual alike (EE p. 80)

Mirumoto – The largest of the Dragon families (it constitutes about 75% of the clan population), the Mirumoto are the link between the unorthodox clan and Rokugani tradition. The history of the family is that of loyalty and obedience to a lord they could not understand. The Mirumoto are famous for their unique two-weapon fighting style (L5R 3rd ed. p. 52).

The Order of Kouken – This order of fortunist monks serve the Dragon as an intelligence gathering network (EE p. 80) Zurui – This family serve as yojimbo for the shugenja of the Dragon Clan (EE p. 81)

Tamori – The youngest of the Dragon families, the Tamori are those Agasha who refused to defect with the bulk of the family during the time of Hitomi's corruption. Most family members detest the man after whom they were named, for not only did he support the corrupted and mad Hitomi (most think that he was right not to break his oaths and defect, but that his enthusiasm in supporting her evil policies and ways was condemnable), but he later supported the evil spirit of Hantei XVI, the name was granted them as a result of the peace treaty between Hantei XVI and Toturi I (L5R 3rd ed. p. 53).

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Izaku – This family of shugenja-librarians serve both the Dragon and Phoenix Clans (EE p. 79) Order of Togashi, The Eternal Dragon – The ruling family of the Dragon is not really a family at all, but an order of tattooed monks, known as ise-zumi. The Togashi is the oldest of the three orders, and the most mysterious. They are energetic and enigmatic, and the most likely of all the three orders to take active part in the events of the Empire, and yet they often seem to act randomly, without logic or reason. They are well-liked by peasants and samurai alike, but they are rarely understood (L5R 3rd ed. p. 53). Clan Schools: Kitsuki Courtier School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 126) Mirumoto Swordmaster School [Bushi] (4W p. 156)

Tamori Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 126) The Kitsuki Investigator School [Bushi] (SchUp p. 8) Mirumoto Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 125 see

also Errata and FAQ) Three Orders Tattooed Men [Monk] (L5R RPG 3rd ed.

p.127 see also Errata and FAQ)

Clan Paths:

Mirumoto Talons [Bushi] (AotD p. 58) Dragon's Flame Archer [Bushi] (SchUp p. 9) Nemuranai Seeker [Bushi] (SchUp p. 9) Kikage Zumi Madman [Monk] (AotD p. 58) Nightingale Samurai [Bushi] (4W p. 16) Kitsuki Gamester [Courtier] (AotD p. 58) Tamori Yamabushi [Shugenja] (4W p. 16) Kitsuki Justicar [Bushi] (4W p. 16)

Mirumoto Elite Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 9) Clan Advanced Schools: Hojatsu’s Legacy [Bushi] (AotD p. 57) Students of the Tao [Bushi] (4W p. 8) Jotomon's Shinrai [Bushi] (SchUp p. 8) Students of the Tao [Shugenja] (4W p. 8) Spirit Binder [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 9) Dojos: Dojo of the Perfect Word [Kitsuki Courtier School, Kitsuki Gamester] (AotD p. 49) Iron Mountain Dojo [Hojatsu’s Legacy, Kitsuki Justicar, Mirumoto Bushi School, Mirumoto Swordmaster

School, Mirumoto Talons] (EE p. 191) Mountain Home Temple [Students of the Tao, Tamori Shugenja School, Tamori Yamabushi, Temple of the

Thousand Fortunes, Three Orders Tattooed Men] (EE p. 192) Open Eye Dojo [Kitsuki Courtier School, Kitsuki Gamester, Kitsuki Justicar] (EE p. 192) Soul of the Dragon Dojo [Hojatsu’s Legacy, Mirumoto Bushi School, Mirumoto Swordmaster School, Mirumoto

Talons] (AotD p. 51) Temple of Tranquil Fire [Tamori Shugenja School, Tamori Yamabushi] (AotD p. 52) Togashi Testing Grounds [Three Orders Tattooed Men] (AotD p. 54)

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The Lion Clan The descendants of Akodo, the greatest strategist of the Kami, and his followers have always constituted the dominant military force of the Empire, and have been given the title “Right Hand of the Emperor”. Proud and honourable, vengeful and rigid, the Lion represent to many the ideal of the follower of Bushido. That said, the Lion also tend to take it to extremes that others find unpalatable. Many see the Lion as arrogant and hostile (as opposed to the Crane, who are just arrogant). The Lion put honesty and devotion to duty above all else. Since the dissolution of the Akodo family in 1123 IC the championship of the clan has wandered between the other families, and has not been restored to the Akodo even after their restoration. The current Daimyo is Ikoma Otemi. Clan colours – gold, earth tones. Akodo – The nobility of the Lion clans, and formerly it ruling family, the Akodo were recently disbanded by Imperial edict, but were later allowed to reform. The leadership of the clan did not return to them, however. Patient and observant, the Akodo are the hand that guides the Lion armies. The Akodo are one of the most traditional and conservative families in Rokugan (L5R 3rd ed. p. 54)

Seizuka – The Seizuka family surveys the regions surrounding Lion lands, seeking secrets routes through which the Lion armies can be mobilized (EE p. 83)

Ikoma – Scholars, diplomats, spymasters, and tacticians, the Ikoma are an exercise in contradiction. Stoic, stern, unforgiving, and often downright dull, but they are not to be mistaken as weak or insignificant; the Ikoma scholars have recorded everything in the history of the Empire, and are familiar with every ploy and trick (L5R 3rd ed. p. 54).

Kaeru – Until recently the Kaeru were a ronin family who ruled Kaeru Toshi, they were forced to accept Lion patronage by the Ikoma, although some of them still harbour loyalty to the Unicorn (EE p. 82, for the Kaeru as ronin family see L5R 3rd ed. p. 76).

Kitsu – The religious centre of the Lion Clan, the Kitsu are more traditional than even the other Lion families. They have a strange non-human origin, which affects their magical powers to this day. In addition to Shugenja operating with the kami as is customary throughout the Empire, the Kitsu have a group of Shugenja who operate Sodan-Senzo – an unusual type of magic, drawing power from the Spirit Realms and the Ancestors (L5R 3rd ed. p. 55).

Ise – This family constitutes the military arm of the Kitsu family and the honour guard at Lion Temples (EE p. 82)

Matsu – If the Akodo are the nobility of the Lion, the Matsu are its passion. One of the largest families of Rokugan, the Matsu are also one of the most aggressive and warlike, always the first to solve problems with violence. Others usually consider them as hot-tempered and unpredictable, for their tendency to burst into violence for the slightest perceived provocation (L5R 3rd ed. p. 55).

Koritome – This family emphasises archery, and leads all archery units in the Lion armies (EE p. 83)

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Clan Schools: Akodo Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 129) Ikoma Tactician School [Bushi] (4W p. 160)

Kitsu Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 130) Akodo War College [Bushi] (4W p. 159) Ikoma Omoidasu School [Courtier] (L5R RPG 3rd ed.

p. 131) Kitsu Sodan-Senzo [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 11) Matsu Berserker School [Bushi] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p.

131) Ikoma Spymaster School [Ninja] (SchUp p. 10) Clan Paths: Akodo Scout [Bushi] (SchUpp. 12) Lioness Legion [Bushi] (AotD p. 71) Ikoma Herald [Bushi] (SchUp p. 12) Matsu Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 71) Lion Deathseeker [Bushi] (4W p. 16) [PELP] Matsu Elite Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 12) Lion Warden [Bushi] (4W p. 17) [ELP] Tsuko Heart [Bushi] (4W p. 17) Clan Advanced Schools: The Kensai "Sword-Saint" [Bushi] (4W p. 8) Matsu Beastmaster [Bushi] (SchUP p. 11) Lion's Pride [Bushi] (SchUp p. 11) Dojos: Bishamon Seido [Kensai, Kitsu Shugenja School, Lioness Legion, Matsu Berserker School] (EE p. 193) Golden Spider Dojo [Kitsu Shugenja School] (AotD p. 65) Heart of the Katana [Kensai] (AotD p. 65) Open Hand of the Lion Dojo [Ikoma Omoidasu School] (AotD p. 66) Sacred Watch Dojo [Ikoma Omoidasu School, Ikoma Tactician School, Lion Warden] (EE p. 194) Swift Sword Dojo [Akodo Bushi School, Akodo War College, Lion Deathseeker, Matsu Duellist] (EE p. 194,

AotD p. 63)

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The Mantis Clan Until a few decades ago, the Mantis was a minor clan, with no family name. Unofficially, the Mantis is the oldest of the minor clans, but it was not recognized officially as such until several centuries later (in 429 IC). At that time the clan was awarded with the Gusai family name, after their leader fought a battle of wits with the Emperor. In 510 IC, however, the name is revoked when the Mantis Daimyo attempts a coup by abducting the Imperial heir. The Clan is not disbanded thanks to the bulk of it turning against the Daimyo and foiling his plans. The clan remained without family for centuries. During the Clan War, Yoritomo, the Mantis Daimyo, managed to create an alliance of minor clans centred around the Mantis, and thanks to his actions in the War, the clan was given a family name – Yoritomo. However, as the War ended the alliance dissolved, and only the Wasp and the Centipede remained. As the two clans encountered severe hardships later (see in the families' description) they eventually were absorbed by the Mantis. Following that, the Mantis was officially recognized as Great Clan. Clan colours: sea green, black. (1st edition colours – teal green, gold) Moshi – Until recently the Moshi family ruled the Centipede Clan. A family of shugenja who worshipped Amaterasu, Lady Sun, the Moshi were deeply affected by her death. This crisis of faith, which wreaked havoc upon the minor clan, led the Moshi to agree to the dissolution of the Centipede and their absorption into the Mantis. The Moshi is a matriarchal family who discriminates, unofficially but effectively, against its male members. As Amaterasu has decided to return to the cycle of reincarnations, some family members have decided to set out in search for her reborn incarnation (L5R 3rd ed. p. 57).

Goraiku – This family serves as a militant arm and yojimbo of the Moshi family, and engages in the worship of Yakamo, Lord Sun (EE p. 85)

Tsuruchi – Until recently the Tsuruchi family ruled the Wasp Clan. A tiny clan, the Daimyo joined the Mantis alliance during the Clan War, and when he was extended the offer of joining the Mantis after the war, the offer was accepted. The Tsuruchi were always close to the Emerald Magistrates, and excelled at catching criminals. Even today many within the clan still insist on being referred to as Wasp, seeing themselves as part of two clans, and displaying their former clan's colours (yellow and black) alongside their new (L5R 3rd ed. p. 57).

Kagehisa – These descendants of ronin who joined the Wasp Clan, serve the Tsuruchi as magistrates (EE p. 85)

Yoritomo – The ruling family of the Mantis Clan is a maritime family, and it is a rare Yoritomo who has not served on one of their ships. This is reflected in their fighting style. Most Yoritomo resemble their Crab cousins in behaviour, except for one branch of the family which trains the Mantis courtiers (L5R 3rd ed. p. 57).

Hogosha – This family serves the Mantis as courtiers and diplomats (EE p. 85) Watanabe – This family serves the Mantis as shipwrights, as well as a cover for the line of Gusai, the original Mantis family (EE p. 86)

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Clan Schools: Moshi Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 133) Yoritomo Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 132) Tsuruchi Bounty Hunter School [Bushi] (L5R RPG 3rd

ed. p. 134) Yoritomo Courtier School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 134) Yoritomo Shugenja School (4W p. 164)

Tsuruchi Magistrates [Bushi] (4W p. 165) Clan Paths: Moshi Guardian of the Sun [Bushi] (4W p. 17) [ELP] Yoritomo Elite Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 13) Tsuruchi Legion [Bushi] (SchUp p. 13) Yoritomo Emissary [Courtier] (4W p. 17) Tsuruchi Master Bowman [Bushi] (AotD p.83) Yoritomo Kobune Pilot [Bushi] (AotD p. 83) Tsuruchi Swordman [Bushi] (4W p. 17) Whirkwind Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 84) Clan Advanced Schools: Moshi Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 83) Storm Riders [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 13) The Orochi Riders [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p.9) Dojos: Amaterasu Seido [Moshi Duellist, Moshi Guardian of the Sun, Moshi Shugenja School, Yoritomo Shugenja

School] (EE p. 194) Dojo of the Wasp [Tsuruchi Bounty Hunter School, Tsuruchi Magistrates, Tsuruchi Master Bowman, Tsuruchi

Swordman] (EE p. 195, see also Hunter of Men Dojo in AotD p. 78) Dojo Raiden [Yoritomo Bushi School, Yoritomo Courtier School, Yoritomo Emissary, Yoritomo Kobune Pilot,

Whirkwind Duellist] (EE p. 196) Green Blade Dojo [Moshi Duellist] (AotD p. 79) Yoritomo Bushi Dojo [Yoritomo Bushi School, Yoritomo Kobune Pilot, Whirkwind Duellist] (AotD p. 76)

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The Phoenix Clan The descendants of Shiba, the wisest of the Kami, and his followers are the greatest scholars and the spiritual and religious anchor of Rokugan. The Phoenix are devoted to the ideal of peace and to the seeking of knowledge, no matter how obscure. Contemplative and wise though they are, the Phoenix have always involved themselves in the political field, and were part of the original Gozoku. Even so, they always did all within their power to spread peace within the E,pire. It is an irony, then, that in the recent generation the Phoenix were involved not in one, but in two bloody disputes, one with their ancient allies – the Dragon, and the other with the Mantis. Recently, the Emperor Toturi III proclaimed the Phoenix his voice in the Empire, along with the Miya, which compels them to engage in large scale politics in the name of the Throne. Clan colours: red, yellow, orange Agasha – An ancient family of shugenja, the Agasha have only served the Phoenix for a very short time. They originally were a Dragon family, but during the time of Hitomi's corruption, they chose to forsake their oaths to the Dragon and defected to the Phoenix. Since then they have taken the role of negotiators between the three families of the clan. The Agasha were the first family to develop multi-elemental spells, but decided to share that discovery with the rest of the clan. What they have always kept in secret was the alchemical magic unique to them. Because of that, the Agasha have gained a reputation of unusual thinkers, and when others of the clan discover something truly bizarre in their studies, they usually refer to the Agasha for help (L5R 3rd ed. p. 58).

Izaku – See their section in the Dragon Clan. Asako – The family of Asako is, like the three tattooed orders of the Dragon, and the Brotherhood of Shinsei, a family withdrawn from the world and dedicated to contemplation and the search of wisdom and enlightenment. The Asako walk the Path of Man, seeing themselves as custodians of humankind's fate, but they do not share their secrets with those outside their family. They have a strong ascetic tradition. Even so, the Henshin do not constitute the entirety of the family, and the family has always had strong courtier and magisterial traditions with members serving the Phoenix in the courts, and policing abuses of magic (L5R 3rd ed. p. 58).

Chukan – This family of librarians maintains the records and categorizations of the Phoenix Clan (EE p. 87)

Isawa – No family in the Empire produces as many shugenja as the Isawa does. And few have traditions as ancient and complex as the Isawa. Unlike all other families in Rokugan, the Isawa have no daimyo. Instead they are ruled by the Elemental Council – a body consisted of the wisest and most powerful shugenja in the Empire, regardless if they are Isawa or not (although it's rare for a non-Isawa to be chosen for the council – the Isawa are simply the best shugenja in the Empire). This Council effectively, though not officially rules the Phoenix (L5R 3rd ed. p. 58).

Shingon – This family serves the Phoenix as artificers and historians (EE p. 88) Shiba – The descendants of Shiba are, officially, the ruling family of the Phoenix, but from the beginning they have been sworn by their founder to always defend the children of Isawa. And so the Phoenix have always been ruled in fact by the Isawa. But the Shiba are not ordinary bushi. In addition to their dedication to the art of war, they are dedicated to scholarly affairs and to the fine arts (L5R 3rd ed. p. 59).

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Nasu – This family, originally created by the first Gozoku, maintains the oversees the bureaucratic needs of the Phoenix (EE p. 88) Sodona – This family was created to protect Shiba interests, and does so with less than savoury means (EE p. 89)

Clan Schools: Agasha Shugenja School (SchUp p. 14) Isawa Tensai School [Shugenja] (4W p. 171) Asako Courtier School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 136) Shiba Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 135 see also

Errata and FAQ) Asako Henshin School [Monk] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 137) Shiba Illusionist [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 14)

Isawa Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 136) Shiba Yojimbo School [Bushi] (4W p. 171) Clan Paths: Agasha Alchemist [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 15) Shiba Artisan [Courtier] (SchUp p. 15) Asako Inquisitor [Shugenja] (4W p. 18) Shiba Elite Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 15) The Chosen Phoenix [Shugenja] (4W p. 18) Shiba Iaijutsu Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 95) The Defenders of Uikku [Bushi] (4W p. 18) Shiba Naginata Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 95) The Order of Chikai [Bushi] (4W p. 172) Clan Advanced Schools: Brotherhood of Heaven's Wing [Bushi] (SchUpp. 14) Isawa Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 94) Elemental Guard [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 15) The Order of the Bent Knee [Bushi] (4W p. 172) Dragon Channeler [Shugenja] (4W p. 10) Shiba Artisan [Courtier] (AotD p. 94) Dojos: Eternal Phoenix Dojo [Order of the Bent Knee, Order of Chikai, Shiba Bushi School, Shiba Iaijutsu Duellist,

Shiba Naginata Duellist, Shiba Yojimbo School] (EE p. 196) Isawa Taryu-jiai Academy [Isawa Duellist] (AotD p. 89) Morning Glory Temple [Asako Courtier School, Asako Henshin School, Asako Inquisitor, Defenders of Uikku,

Shiba Artisan] (EE p. 197) Shiba Artisan Dojo [Shiba Artisan] (AotD p. 90) Shiba Bushi School [Shiba Bushi School, Shiba Iaijutsu Duellist, Shiba Naginata Duellist, Shiba Yojimbo

School] (AotD p. 88) Temple of Rememberance [Dragon Channeler, Isawa Duellist, Isawa Shugenja School, Isawa Tensai School]

(EE p. 198)

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The Scorpion Clan The descendants of Bayushi, the most secretive of the Kami, and his followers stand vigilant in the shadows awaiting and watching those who wish to strike at the Empire from the darkness. The scorpions have evolved into what many refer to as “the Emperor’s underhand”, families of spies, assassins, and manipulators, who value loyalty above all else. Other clans often despise the Scorpion as honourless, and, while honour is not beyond them and some Scorpion follow bushido to the letter, most view honour as a tool to be used when useful and discarded when cumbersome. Despite (or perhaps because of) the aura of fear associated with the clan that waits in the shadows, many Scorpion are the most jovial and inviting people in Rokugan. After all if your reputation as a blackmailer, backstabber, liar, thief and slanderer precedes you, why bother trying to frighten and impress every person they meet? The Scorpion are the only Great Clan to have ever been dissolved by Imperial edict, following the Scorpion Clan coup, and many of their numbers were exiled to the Burning Sands. Only many years later were the motivation for the assassination of Hantei XXXVIII revealed, and the Scorpion were allowed to regroup and claim their names and ancestral lands. A Scorpion can easily be identified by the mask they always wear. It was a custom begun by the Kami Bayushi – wearing a mask to announce to the world that he could not be trusted. The Scorpion also, more than any other clan, are meticulous in displaying their clan colours on their clothes and masks. Though not as beautiful as the Crane, many Scorpions are exotically handsome, wearing their sumptuous black hair long, so as to accentuate their angular features. Clan colours: blood-red, black Bayushi – The unquestioned ruling family of the Scorpion leads the clan both in the court and in the battlefield. This family boasts well educated courtiers and keenest bushi. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between the two, as even the most sheltered of Bayushi courtiers knows his way around a sword, and even the most battle-ready bushi makes it a point to learn the subtleties of court. The Bayushi are the most despised of all samurai families, seen as the most dishonourable of them, but ironically this family in many ways directly embodies what it means to be a samurai – a master of both the pen and the sword, ever prepared for any threat, ever ready to spill their blood at the Emperor’s will, and even more so to spill the blood of the enemy. They are an extremely wealthy and politically powerful family, superceded only by the Doji and the Imperial families (L5R 3rd ed. p. 61).

Aotora – This family of herbalists serve the Scorpion with their gifts in medicine, antidotes, poisons, and all sorts of ailments (EE p. 89)

Shosuro – Ostensibly the Shosuro are no more than aides de camp to the Bayushi – a lesser family of courtiers and bushi who further Bayushi goals. The truth, which the Shosuro work tirelessly to conceal, is much more sinister. This is a family of spies, assassins and saboteurs like no other in the Empire. However, those who call them ninja live to regret it. They do not consider themselves ninja. They are samurai, and value obedience and loyalty above all. So if their lord orders hem to dress in black, skulk around in the night and poison his enemies, so be it. Their honour is stronger for not questioning that which must be done. While the Bayushi are strikingly beautiful, the Shosuro are often bland and unremarkable. It is not uncommon for someone to have a conversation with a Shosuro, and later find it difficult to recall his appearance (L5R 3rd ed. p. 61).

Kochako – This family is tasked with locating and eliminating threats to the Scorpion from within, as well as without (EE p. 90)

Soshi – The religious heart of the Scorpion, the Soshi have an unusual view of Rokuganni religion. To them the wisdom of Shinsei is a way to keep people calm, thoughtful, and easily controlled. Like all Scorpion, the Soshi are extremely secretive and manipulative, casting dark spells of espionage and illusion (L5R 3rd ed. p. 61).

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Nanbu – This family serves the Soshi family as guards, yojimbo, and attendants (EE p. 91)

Yogo – The original Yogo was an Asako Shugenja who fought Fu Leng, the Dark Kami, and was cursed by him to always betray that which he loved. The Isawa tried to remove the curse but failed and concluded that the curse would continue along the line of Yogo for all eternity. Not wanting to betray his beloved Phoenix, Yogo retired to solitude, where he was found by Bayushi, who recruited him to the Scorpion, saying that he wouldn’t have to fear lest he betrayed his new clan, as he did not love the Scorpion. Yogo’s descendants turned their power to battling maho and the Taint out of vengeance for their curse. In time they became the guardians of the Twelve Black Scrolls – Fu Leng’s prison, for which they developed their signature ward magic. They eventually betrayed the Empire when Yogo Junzo began opening the Dark Scrolls. Now the Yogo are pariahs outside their clan, and few are willing to trust them with anything, which the Yogo accept with silence. The Yogo are slightly paranoid, and very untrusting, for they know that trust may lead to love, and love to betrayal (L5R 3rd ed. p. 61).

Tansaku – This family is tasked with researching ways of subverting the curse laid upon all Yogo (EE p. 91)

Clan Schools: Bayushi Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 139) Shosuro Shinobi School [Ninja] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p.

141 see also Errata and FAQ) Bayushi Courtier School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 140 see also Errata and FAQ) Soshi Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 140)

Bayushi Saboteur [Ninja] (SchUp p. 16) Yogo Shugenja School (4W p. 176) Shosuro Actor [Ninja] (SchUp p. 16) Clan Paths:

Ichiba Consortium [Courtier] (SchUp p. 18) Bayushi Defender [Bushi] (AotD p. 107) The Kuroiban [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 18) Bayushi Defiler [Courtier] (AotD p. 107) Shosuro Yojimbo [Ninja] (4W p. 19) Bayushi Elite Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 18) Soshi Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 108) Bayushi Violator [Bushi] (4W p. 18) Yogo Ward Master [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 18) Bitter Lies Swordman [Bushi] (4W p. 18, 56)

The Folding Leg [Ninja] (SchUp p. 18) Clan Advanced Schools: Shosuro Champion [Bushi] (AotD p. 105) Shosuro Deceivers [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 17) Scorpion Instigator [Courtier] (SchUp p. 17) Yogo Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 107) Shadow Hunter [Ninja] (4W p. 12) Dojos: Bayushi Bushi School [Bayushi Bushi School, Bayushi Defender] (AotD p. 99) Brother’s Gift Dojo [Shadow Hunter, Shosuro Champion, Shosuro Shinobi School, Shosuro Yojimbo] (EE p.

198) First Breath Temple [Soshi Duellist, Soshi Shugenja School, Yogo Duellist, Yogo Shugenja School] (EE p. 199) Honour’s Lesson Dojo [Bayushi Bushi School, Bayushi Defender, Bayushi Violator, Bitter Lies Swordman] (EE

p. 199) Shosuro Champion Dojo [Shosuro Champion] (AotD p. 100) Wielder of Veils [Soshi Duellist, Soshi Shugenja School] (AotD p. 102) Yogo Shugenja School [Yogo Duellist, Yogo Shugenja School] (AotD p. 102)

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The Unicorn Clan The descendants of Shinjo, the restless Kami, and her followers, have a rather short history in Rokugan. In fact, the bulk of their traditions, social and political structure, and their culture, stem from a period in which the Clan roamed the lands of the gaijin far from the borders of the Empire. One of the things the clan brought from foreign lands was its name, whereas before the departure of Shinjo and her followers were the Ki-Rin Clan, they returned as the Unicorn, about eight centuries after their departure. Many of the members of the clan are gaijin who attached themselves to Shinjo and her followers over the course of her journeys. Even today, 300 years after their return to the Empire, the Unicorn still encounter much of the same hostility and confusion they engendered upon their return. They are often criticised (and often despised) for their “barbarian” ways, and their refusal to conform to the traditions and customs that evolved in the Empire in the years of their absence. Unlike the other clans of Rokugan, the Unicorn are nomads, avoiding permanent cities and their construction as much as possible. Due to their foreign ancestry Unicorn tend to be short and stocky. Clan colours: purple, white. Horiuchi – The smallest and youngest of Unicorn families, the Horiuchi was founded only three generations ago. After the War of the Spirits the Horiuchi led the relief efforts extended by the Unicorn Clan to regions that were seriously affected by it. As a result, and out of gratitude, many orphans rescued and cared for by the Horiuchi, decided to join the family (which, until then included just its Daimyo and her immediate family, and her honour guard). As a result, the family, although ruled by Shugenja, is quite diverse in its members’ vocations, as well as appearance. What they do have in common, however, is a deep scholarly streak, especially in regard to the supernatural. The Horiuchi patrol the border of the Shinomen wood, as part of the protection of the sleeping Naga, the ancient allies of the Unicorn Clan (L5R 3rd ed. p. 62). Ide – The Ide were one of the original families of the Ki-Rin Clan. They are the Unicorn’s ambassadors and negotiators to the rest of the world and the mediators between the Clan families. Traditionally the family has been dedicated to the ideas of peace and tranquillity, but over the last decade or so, it has become more warlike than ever. This has caused some discomfort among more traditionalist Ide members, but as long as the traditions of the family are not broken outright, they are prepared to sit and watch (L5R 3rd ed. p. 62) Iuchi – The shugenja family of the Unicorn is, like the rest of the Clan, unusual in Rokuganni landscape. They have learned much during the Unicorn travels, and combine traditional elemental magic with gaijin lore. It is an irony that the Iuchi respect freedom, in magic and otherwise and therefore monitor magic carefully to keep magic users from using it to become tyrants. They invest much of their efforts into curative and protective magic, and avoid using it violently. However, they are not pacifistic in the Asahina or Isawa style (L5R 3rd ed. p. 63)

Battue – This family is charged with eradicating corruption from the Forest of Dreamers (EE p. 92) Moto – The ruling family of the Unicorn clan is a family of gaijin origin, who swore fealty to Shinjo during her travels beyond the Empire’s border. The Moto berserkers, known as “the Fury of the Unicorn”, are widely considered one of the fiercest military powers in the Empire. Since the Moto took over the Clan, they have been leading it in a more militant way, flexing their muscles even against the mighty Lion (L5R 3rd ed. p. 63)

Onshigawa – This family maintains the Moto stables, and engages in all manner of athleticism (EE p. 94) Shinjo – For many centuries the Shinjo family ruled the Unicorn clan with moderation, compassion and great responsibility. However, during that time the family was heavily infiltrated

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by the Kolat. When the Kami Shinjo was freed from her imprisonment during the war against the Lying Shadow, her first act was to purge her descendants of this malignant influence. However this infiltration was so successful that the purge left the numbers of the Shinjo severely diminished and the family name tarnished and dishonoured. The Kami had no choice but to pass the rule of the Clan to the Moto. Today the Shinjo are but a shadow of their former glory. Their finesse and talents are at the command of the Khan’s war-efforts, and their name is synonymous with “Kolat” to much of the Empire. Whatever respect they gain they have to struggle for. And still the Shinjo hope to restore their family to its former glory (L5R 3rd ed. p. 64).

Marta – This family is charged with keeping the Unicorn Clan oral and written histories (EE p. 93) Utaku – The best cavalry in the Empire, the Utaku family is a family where women warriors rule and men rear and care for their horses, the best in Rokugan. Until Shinjo’s return the family was known as the Otaku, but after the sacrifice of Otaku Kamoko during the war against the Lying Darkness, the family was renamed Utaku, so that Kamoko would be the last to bear the Otaku name. The Utaku are beautiful, serene, and project inner strength (L5R 3rd ed. p. 65).

Naoko – This family maintained the customs of the Ujik-Hai for posterity, and now represents the Moto to the other Unicorn families (EE p. 93)

Clan Schools: Horiuchi Shugenja School (SchUp p. 19) Moto Bushi School [Pre-Hidden Emperor) (SchUp p.

19) Ide Duellist School [Bushi] (AotD p. 120) Ide Emissary School [Courtier] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p.

143) Shinjo Bushi School (4W p. 179) Shinjo Scout School [Bushi] (4W p. 179)

Iuchi Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 142 see also Errata and FAQ)

Shinjo Magistrate School [Bushi] (SchUp p. 21) Utaku Battle Maiden School [Bushi] (L5R RPG 3rd ed.

p. 144) Ki-Rin Moto Nomad School [Ninja] (SchUp p. 19) Moto Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 142) Utaku Infantry School [Bushi] (SchUp p. 22) Clan Paths: Baraunghar Shugenja (SchUp p. 23) Master of the Winds [Bushi] (4W p. 19) Iuchi Master of the Swift Wave [Shugenja] (AotD p.

121) Moto Acrobat [Bushi or Courtier] (AotD p. 122) Moto Priest of Death [Shugenja] (4W p. 19) [ELP]

Junghar Defender [Bushi] (SchUp p. 23) Shinjo Elite Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 24) Khol Raider [Bushi] (SchUp p. 23) Shinomen Guard [Bushi] (4W p. 20) Master Horse Archer [Bushi] (SchUp p. 24) Vigilant [Bushi] (SchUp p. 24) Clan Advanced Schools: Magistrate [Bushi] (SchUp p. 23) White Guard [Bushi] (4W p. 12) Dojo: Dojo of the Centre [Moto Acrobat, Moto Bushi School, Moto Priest of Death, Utaku Battle Maiden School,

White Guard] (EE p. 200) Floating Leaf Dojo [Iuchi Shugenja School, Iuchi Master of the Swift Wave] (AotD p. 111) Gatherer of Winds Temple [Iuchi Shugenja School, Iuchi Master of the Swift Wave, Moto Priest of Death] (EE

p. 200) Gentle Guard Dojo [Ide Emissary School] (AotD p. 113) Shinjo Dojo [Master of the Winds, Shinjo Bushi School, Shinjo Scout School, Shinomen Guard] (EE p. 201) Single Strike Dojo [Ide Duellist School] (AotD p. 114) World’s Balance [Baraunghar Shugenja, Junghar Defender, Khol Raider, Master Horse Archer, Utaku Battle

Maiden School] (AotD p. 115)

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The Minor Clans The Badger Clan Clan colours: brown, black (1st edition colours: pale grey with stripes of black and white) Ichiro – The Badger clan was created in 110 IC, after Hida Domogu won a strength contest held by Imperial decree. The badger were granted the Ichiro name, and allowed to settle the northernmost corner of the Empire, so as to serve as first line in a case of gaijin invasion. Their remote location and the barrenness of their lands led to their being cut off from the rest of the Empire. After centuries of peace, the Ichiro became lax in their vigilance and were unprepared for the attack of the demon Hideo no Oni, wearing the guise of a Badger samurai, who used their surprise to decimate their numbers and destroy their holdings. In 1126 an emerald magistrate named Kaiu Osuki travelling to Badger lands to deliver an Imperial edict, discovered the destruction of the Badger and assisted in the defeat of the Oni. Due to Hantei XXXVIII’s illness and the mayhem of the Clan War their name and minor clan status are never officially removed, and when Toturi I gains the throne he allows them to retain their name and status as a reward for their support. Of the few Ichiro alive today, most of the bushi travel the empire as wandering mercenaries. Having overcome the deep prejudice all minor clan samurai have for that occupation, the Badger bushi hire their services to the highest bidder, and send most of their profits back home to help in the rebuilding of Shiro Ichiro. During their years of exile it was revealed that what they were truly protecting was not the northern border of the Empire, but the Tomb of Ryoshun, the tenth Kami. Following that revelation, the Miya brought the Emperor’s Blessing to Shiro Ichiro, and with financial help from the Great Clans, managed to restore it. The Badger are now back in their ancestral home, wealthier than ever. The Badger resemble their Crab ancestor, but they are less tall than they, and tend to have a more morose and pessimistic demeanour about them (L5R 3rd ed. p. 65).

Fureheshu – The family serves as unarmed combatant and expert wrestlers, often training with the Hida (EE p. 97) Tashimi – These are the descendants of the Ichiro sensei who maintained the Clan’s techniques when the Clan was on the brink of extinction (EE p. 98)

Clan School: Ichiro Bushi School (4W p. 187) Clan Paths: Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Woodland Tracker [Bushi] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Minor Clan Sumai Master [Bushi] (AotD p. 152) Clan Advanced School: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojos: Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142) Heart of the Mountain Dojo [Ichiro Bushi School, Minor Clan Defender, Minor Clan Sumai Master, Woodland

Tracker] (AotD p. 141)

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The Bat Clan Clan colour: black Komori – The youngest of the minor clans but one, the Bat clan was created in 1165 IC, after Yoritomo Komori assisted Emperor Toturi III contact his dead sister. Having been the one to raise the current Mantis Daimyo from infancy, the Clan Komosi founded retains good relationships with its parent Clan. Yoritomo Kumiko granted leave to any Mantis samurai who wished to join the Bat to do so. Komori is descended from Bat spirits, and so has great talent for summoning magic, as a result the Komori Shugenja School specialises in summoning magic (L5R 3rd ed. p. 66).

Iongi – This small family serves as librarians and archivists to the Bat Clan (EE p. 98) Clan School: Komori Shugenja School (4W p. 187) Clan Paths: Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Taryu-Jiai Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 152) Clan Advanced School: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojo: Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142)

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The Dragonfly Clan Clan colour: blue, brown, gold (1st edition colours: jewel tones, in a rainbow of colours) Tonbo – The Dragonfly are often referred to as “the children of the Dragon and the Phoenix”, due to their descent as well as their philosophy, which merges Phoenix and Dragon ideas to create something new entirely. Isawa Maroko, already betrothed to Akodo Yokutso, is sent as an emissary to the Dragon, where she falls in love with Mirumoto Asijin. The couple eloped but, to everyone’s surprise, is given the blessings of their respective Clans, and are granted a piece of land to the south of the Dragon. The jilted Lion sets out in 704 IC to exact his revenge heading a large army, but arriving at the couple’s home, he was surprised to discover massive Dragon and Phoenix forces. He was forced to take an oath to leave the couple and their lands alone. When news of the battle reached Otosan Uchi, the pro-Crane Emperor granted the couple minor clan status and the Tonbo family name. Several years later (711 IC) Yokutsu used a remark made by a Dragon courtier at court as a pretext to attack the Dragon Clan. Careful to bypass the Dragonfly lands, he informed the Dragon that he would relinquish the attack if allowed to duel with Asijin. The Dragon Daimyo ordered Asijin to face Yokutsu and lose. In return he swore that the Dragonfly will always be under Dragon protection. In the battle that ensued Asijin was slain, and Akodo Yokutsu declared himself Daimyo of the Dragonfly, and his intention of actualising his engagement to Tonbo Maroko. However, when arriving at Kyuden Tonbo, he was faced with Tonbo Kuyuden, Maroko and Asijin’s son, who challenged Yokutsu to a duel, in which the Akodo noble died. Kuyuden and Maroko then disbanded the fledgling Bushi School which was being founded by Asijin, dedicating their clan to the pursuit of peace, wisdom, and enlightenment. The story of their founding still affects the status and position of the Dragonfly. The Dragon have kept true to their oath, and still keep the almost pacifistic Minor Clan under their protection. The Dragonfly has become the Voice of the Dragon – they are the emissaries of the Dragon and the keepers of their gates. No one can enter Dragon lands, or engage in any sort of talk or negotiation with the Dragon, without first going through the Dragonfly and gaining their approval. The only other real ally the Dragonfly have is the Phoenix clan. The Lion have preserved the hatred of Yokutsu toward the Minor Clan. And in 1158 IC the Lion used the breaking of the Dragon-Phoenix War to attack the Dragonfly, burning Kyuden Tonbo and ravaging the surrounding lands. Sezaru later restored it magically, and assisted in the restoration of the Clan. The Dragonfly are very spiritual, devoted to seeking Enlightenment through the devotion to the kami. They have developed a philosophy promoting growth and Enlightenment through the acceptance of change. This is considered as very nearly heretical. As a result, most other clans view the Dragonfly with and suspicion. However, they will not act against the Dragonfly due to the combined Dragon and Phoenix protection. Since the restoration of Kyuden Tonbo, the focus of the discipline taught by the Clan has shifted a bit, and now there is a greater focus on Divination and Prognostics. In recent years the Tonbo have been allowed to freely train in all the schools taught at the Dojo of the Perfect Word of the Kitsuki. Dragonfly appearance generally reflects their dual ancestry, and many could pass for Dragon or Phoenix members (L5R 3rd ed. p. 66).

Koshei – This young family serves the Tonbo as yojimbo and train with the Shiba (EE p. 99)

Sekensha – This family maintains a tradition of divination magic (EE p. 99) Clan School: Tonbo Shugenja School (4W p. 188) Clan Paths: Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Taryu-Jiai Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 152) Clan Advanced School: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojos: Still Water Temple [Minor Clan Defender, Taryu-Jiai Duellist, Tonbo Shugenja School] (AotD p. 144) Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142)

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The Fox Clan Clan Colours: brown, green (1st edition colours: red-brown, silver) Kitsune – When Shinjo led the Ki-Rin Clan outside the Empire, some stayed behind to guard and preserve the lands of the absent clan. However, the Lion Clan looked at the vast lands held by the small band of Ki-Rin bushi with jealousy. Around 90 IC, when these Ki-Rin were unable to pay their tax tariffs to the Emperor, the Lion invaded en masse. The Ki-Rin were no match to the vast Lion armies and were forced to withdraw. The Ki-Rin turned to the Emperor in request of assistance. The Emperor responded by granting them unoccupied lands, the Kitsune family name and, for the first time in the history of the Empire, Minor Clan status. The land assigned to the newly formed Fox, the Kitsune Mori, was an infamously haunted forest, but the Fox didn’t let that deter them. Within the forest, the Fox created a bond with the shapeshifting Fox Spirits after which the forest was named and their blood came to be mingled with theirs. Through that bond the Fox created a connection with nature unparalleled in Rokugan. No other clan produces woodsmen, hunters, or trackers like the Fox, and although most of them are shugenja, even their shugenja receive extensive martial training. The Fox unofficially also serve as guides to Animal Spirits on Ningen-Do. The Fox are a peaceful clan by nature, but they combine the restless spirit of the Unicorn, with the curiosity and mischievousness of their Spirit ancestors, which tends to entangle them in trouble. Although the Fox’s involvement with the Kitsune Spirits is not public knowledge, most suspect that their long dwelling in the haunted forest has changed them, and thus they are rarely fully trusted. The Fox have a somewhat strained relationship with the Unicorn, as many of the Great Clan believe that once the Unicorn returned to the Empire, the historical role of the Fox has ended, and that should be assimilated back into the Unicorn. The fox tend to have a somewhat wild appearance, and move with graceful fluidity (L5R 3rd ed. p. 67).

Byako – This family maintains the close blood ties of the Kitsune to their Spirit namesakes, and never leaves Fox lands (EE p. 100) Shudo – This family serves as yojimbo and sentries to the Fox Clan (EE p. 100)

Clan School: Kitsune Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 147 see also Errata and FAQ) Clan Paths: Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Taryu-Jiai Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 152) Minor Clan Explorer [Bushi or Courtier] (AotD p. 152) Clan Advanced School: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojos: Temple of the Foxwife [Minor Clan Explorer, Kitsune Shugenja School, Ronin Yojimbo School, Taryu-Jiai

Duellist, Woodland Tracker] (EE p. 202) Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142)

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The Hare Clan The ronin Reichin was one of the first to become aware of the return of Iuchiban. Reichin decided to work against this threat to the empire, but being a man alone, without the backing of family or clan, he initiated a series of acts of sabotage, distractions, misdirection, and espionage. So successful was he in this, that the leader of the Bloodspeakers swore personal vengeance and him and any who followed him. When the Bloodspeakers were defeated, the Emperor recognised Reichin’s endeavours and in 750 IC, he awarded Reichin the family name Usagi and Minor Clan status. Since then the first aim of the Hare clans became to uncover secrets that threaten the Empire. Originally their prime target were Bloodspeakers and other Maho-tsukai, but in the early 12th century the Hare exposed a splinter Kolat cell. The Kolat swore vengeance against the Hare, and they manipulated the Scorpion against the Hare. When in 1123 the Hare exposed and slew a Scorpion spy, the Scorpion used it as an excuse to attack and destroy Shiro Usagi, slay the Clan Daimyo, and capture his daughter. They later arranged for four people to swear to having seen Maho practised by the Hare to the Emperor, who ordered the disbanding of the Clan. Ozaki, the late Daimyo’s son worked tirelessly to exonerate the Clan, and in 1125 IC, after the dissolution of the Scorpion, managed to do so, and the Clan status and family name were restored, and the true Kolat culprits were punished. Since then the Kolat shared an equal priority with Bloodspeakers in the Hare target list. That said, any clandestine criminal organization with secrets should be weary with a Hare around. The Hare is currently the only minor clan with two families. Clan Colours: red, white Ujina – The younger and smaller family of the Hare are skilled, stealthy warriors (L5R 3rd ed. p. 67). Usagi – The ruling family of the Hare emphasises investigation of the enemy (L5R 3rd ed. p. 67). Clan School: Usagi Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 147) Clan Paths: Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Ujina Skirmisher School [Bushi] (SchUp p. 27) [ELP] Minor Clan Explorer [Bushi or Courtier] (AotD p. 152) Woodland Tracker [Bushi] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Advanced Clan School: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojos: Ujina Torid-e [Ujina Skirmisher School] (AotD p. 144) Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142)

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The Monkey Clan Clan colours: orange, brown Toku – Toku was one of the heroes of the Clan War. He was a peasant who impersonated a samurai, and became one of the most admired leaders of Toturi’s army. After the War, and Toturi’s ascension to Emperor, in 1129 he offered Toku the position of Captain of the Imperial Guard. Toku refuse, and confessed his crime, begging to be permitted seppukku. Instead, Toturi granted him samurai status retroactively, negating Toku’s crime, and granted him Minor Clan status, and appointed him Captain of the Imperial Guard. The new Clan was appointed keeper of Imperial Law, and are so stringent in the pursuit of this task, that many consider them an Imperial Family. When the Emperor was driven insane during the War against the Darkness, he granted the Monkey lands in the middle of Scorpion territory, in order to cause strife. When the War ended, Toku offered the Scorpion their lands back, but they refused. Instead they requested on marriages between the Monkey and the Scorpion including Toku himself. Since then the Scorpion saw themselves as the secret benefactors and protectors of the Monkey, never seeking to betray or manipulate them. The Scorpions even hint at the right direction to Monkey Magistrates engaged in solving crime, and act discreetly to eliminate threats to their honourable little cousins, as they affectionately refer to them. The Scorpion believe the Monkey stand for something pure, honourable, and noble. As far from the Scorpion as can be. Thus, they believe, Monkey honour should be protected at all time, so that they continue to be a beacon of what a samurai should be, for all the Empire to see. Following Toku’s death, Toturi III granted the Clan the Toku family name. The Monkey are remarkably talkative, friendly, and easygoing. Many of them bear a resemblance to their Scorpion parents (L5R 3rd ed. p. 68)

Fuzake – This family produces and trains the shugenja of the Monkey Clan, and is a candidate for promotion to a true family (EE p. 100)

Clan School: Toku Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 149) Clan Paths: Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Path of Toturi [Bushi] (4W p. 20) Minor Clan Explorer [Bushi or Courtier] (AotD p. 152) Woodland Tracker [Bushi] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Clan Advanced School: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojo: Vigilant Keep Dojo [Toku Bushi Scool, Fuzake Shugenja (Traditional Priest), Minor Clan Defender, Minor Clan

Diplomat] (EE p. 202) Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142)

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The Oriole Clan Clan colours: unknown Clan Mon: an oriole taking flight Tsi – The youngest of Minor Clans has become one only in 1168 IC. The Tsi family has been renowned as the best smiths in the Empire for centuries, and although they are not universally smiths, the Daimyo of the family are always selected by their abilities as a smith, even if they are not the sons of the former Daimyo. Ronin with exceptional abilities as smiths are allowed to swear fealty to the clan, and receive clan training. More often than not one of these people becomes the next Daimyo. As a new Clan, the Oriole do not yet have their own full school, and their bushi train in ronin schools. However they do have an entry-level path (L5R 3rd ed. p. 76 as the Tsi Family). Clan Paths: Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Tsi Smith [Bushi] (4W p. 22) [ELP] Oriole Craftsman [Any] (AotD p. 152) Clan Advanced School: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojo: Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142)

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The Ox Clan Clan colours: Blue, Black Morito – During the War against the Darkness Shinjo Morito led a group of samurai to Phoenix territory, claiming an unoccupied piece of land and constructed a castle there, proclaiming himself Daimyo of the Ox Clan, which, of course, had no official validity. Ostensibly he did that in order to make a name for himself, but in reality he was one of the Kolat (who, after all, ruled the Shinjo family at the time), and wanted to protect the hidden Kolat temple in the area he settled from the War. During the War of the Spirits he distinguished himself, and the Emperor recognized his Minor Clan claim. Though not all Ox members are Kolat, (only those who prove their worth and personal loyalty are told of the true purpose of the Clan) the leadership of the Clan is all Kolat. The Clan received a family name only recently (L5R 3rd ed. p. 69)

Kijuro – This family guards the western borders of the Ox Clan (EE p. 102) Clan School: Morito Bushi School (4W p. 188) Clan Paths: Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Woodland Tracker [Bushi] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Minor Clan Sumai Master [Bushi] (AotD p. 152) Clan Advanced School: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojo: Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142)

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The Sparrow Clan Clan colour: shades of brown (1st edition colours: dun brown and black) Suzume – The Sparrow Clan is a clan devoted to noble poverty. They believe that a samurai’s worth can only be truly appreciated when he is free of too much property. During the negotiations to end the Crab-Crane War of 400 IC a young Doji named Suzume stupidly said: “Maybe the world would be a better place if samurai just gave their wealth to the peasants and allowed them to rule?” The Crane Daimyo took that as a subtle attack on his economic decisions, to which Doji Onegano, Suzume’s father objected, and suspended negotiations. When the threat of war resumed, the Emperor had to intervene himself, and decreed that both clans would cede territory to a new Minor Clan headed by Doji Onegano. The Emperor knew that the Great Clans would cede only the poorest and most uninhabitable lands, and thus Onegano and his foolish son would be removed from the delicate political situation. Onegano retired to a monastery in disgust with his son, and Suzume became Clan Daimyo. Fortunately, Suzume’s aunt, Masako joined him. She was a wise woman, who believed that there was merit in the idea of honourable poverty, and saw the Sparrow Clan as a way to implement that notion. Many Crane samurai, disgusted with a War motivated by greed flocked to Suzume’s banner. The lands of the Sparrow are poor indeed, and they have been tasked with watching over and guarding from any intrusion Golden Sun Plain, a lush and rich territory, sacrosanct to the Emperor. The Sparrow see the hardship of their life as the truest test of the samurai, suffering the difficulty of making their living by hard toil from a harsh land with their honour always tested by the fertile Golden Sun Plain in clear view. The Sparrow are proud that none of them has ever succumbed to the temptation of violating that virgin plain. The Sparrow have developed a rich tradition of storytelling, preserving a tradition of oral history. Great Clans members, however, often find Sparrow stories, stories of labour, farming, and guarding rocks, to be dull, and often joke that stories are the Sparrow’s true weapons – they simply bore people out of the will to live (L5R 3rd ed. p. 69)

Edakuni – This family serves the Sparrow as artisans and entertainers (EE p. 102) Clan School: Suzume Bushi School (4W p. 189) Clan Paths: Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Suzume Storyteller [Bushi] (4W p. 21) Suzume Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 152) Woodland Tracker [Bushi] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Clan Advanced School: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojo: Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142)

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The Tortoise Clan Clan colours: light green, white (1st edition clan: blue-black and gold) Kasuga – The Tortoise Clan was created in year 442 IC, when a group of gaijin who were previously allowed to remain in Otosan Uchi on a conditional basis, were informed that they are to leave the Empire. The gaijin rioted and slain the Empress Hantei VII. Agasha Kasuga assisted the gaijin to escape, but strangely, was awarded Minor Clan status by the Emperor. The purpose of the Clan remained secret ever since, and the Clan was despised by all other Clans – not only for their murky birth, but for their un-samurai activities. The Kasuga are merchants who do not shy from heavy labour and consort with gaijin on regular basis. Although officially they are diplomats and couriers of the Imperial Families, their true purpose is different. They serve the Emperor directly as spies, smugglers, and enforcers – not only within the Empire, but beyond it, in the lands of the gaijin, as well. For that reason they generally do not mind their soiled reputation – in fact they consider that an advantage. For centuries the Clan had no legal Daimyo, and the Emperor served as de iure Daimyo of the Clan, and the Clan reported directly to him, both in internal and external affairs. Toturi I appointed a Clan Daimyo, and granted him the Kasuga family name, after the Clan founder, but the Clan still reports to the Emperor directly. In recent years the Clan has risen in importance – it has created an alliance with the Dragon, and was recognized as the representative of all Minor Clans in the Imperial Court. As a result all Minor Clans send advisors to the Tortoise. The Tortoise has always been a small Clan, and their numbers never rose beyond one thousand (L5R 3rd ed. p. 70)

Hyobe – This family produces the officers and leadership for the ground army of the Tortoise (EE p. 103) Someisa – This family is charged with the safekeeping of the ancient, sacred tortoise, believed to be the person of Shinsei’s friend Someisa (EE p. 103)

Clan Schools:

Kasuga Courtier School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 149) Kasuga Bushi School (4W p. 189) Clan Paths: Kasuga Deceiver [Bushi] (AotD p. 152) Woodland Tracker [Bushi] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Minor Clan Diplomat [Courtier] (4W p. 21) [ELP] Clan Advanced Schools: Minor Clan Defender [Bushi or Shugenja] (4W p. 13) Dojo: Embassy of the Alliance [Minor Clan Diplomat] (AotD p. 142)

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The Imperial Families The Imperial families serve the Emperor directly and are his right and left hands. Although each clan may have great power in and of itself, it only has them at the whim of the Imperial Families, the true source of authority in the Empire. Unlike the Clans, the Imperial Families have no predefined purpose and role to fill, rather their aim is to govern the Empire, and each of their members is free to strengthen the rule of the Empire as he sees fit. Only a fool challenges the authority of hose who serve the throne directly. The Imperial Families have no common Mon (the one to the right is the personal Mon of the Emperor). They tend to use dark green and gold for their colours. Miya – The heralds, peacekeepers, and keepers of order in the Empire, the Miya are a small family, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the Imperial Capital. They were founded by Miya, a courtier who was sent out by the Kami Hantei, the First Emperor, to announce the victory over Fu-Leng throughout the Empire. However, in his compassion, Miya delayed wherever he saw an area ravaged by the war, to assist in restoration efforts, thus he gathered around himself a host of grateful samurai. When he returned to Otosan Uchi he was granted an Imperial Family status. To this day Miya’s compassion is memorialised by an annual tradition known as “The Emperor’s Blessing” when Miya members set out to an area ravaged by war or natural disaster to assist in restorations. The Miya’s duty is to mediate between warring Clans, and few are willing to resist their mediations. The Miya are probably the least influential of the Imperial Families in the inner politics of the Empire, but they also have few enemies. However, they are backed by the other Imperial Families, which means that moving against them and their edicts would place all the families against the offender (L5R 3rd ed. p. 71)

Anou – This family of smiths and architects are the driving force behind the Emperor’s Blessing (EE p. 95) Satoshi – This family is responsible to protecting the Miya lands from any harm (EE p. 95)

Otomo – The most powerful courtiers in the Empire, ostensibly their role is to oversee the machinations of Rokuganni administration and supervising its politics, which they do tremendously affectively. Their true agenda is slightly different. Since the rise and fall of the Gozoku, the Otomo spent their effort to make sure the Clans are never able or motivated to threaten the position of the Emperor, or challenge his authority. They are manipulative and cunning and use that as efficiently as a sword. The Otomo are extremely wealthy, and tend to be heavyset, which no military training seems able to negate (L5R 3rd ed. p. 71).

Reju – This family deals with education and the establishing and maintenance of schools throughout the Imperial City (EE p. 94)

Seppun – Descended of a seer woman who foresaw the arrival of the Kami, the Lady Seppun and her followers were the first to kneel before them when the fell to Ningen-Do. Since then the Seppun family has guarded the Emperor and his kin with their lives. Their lives are dedicated to the Emperor and every action they take is always with that in mind. The Daimyo of the Seppun always serves as the Captain of the Imperial Guard, or the Emperor’s personal yojimbo, quite often both. The Seppun number not only bushi, but shugenja as well, who are tasked with protecting the Emperor from supernatural treats just as the bushi protect him from physical ones. The Seppun rarely leave the Imperial Capital on Imperial business, leaving that to the Otomo and Miya, but when encountered they usually command greater respect than the other two families. The Seppun are known for their legendary fighting abilities, as well as their scholarship and devotion to the Tao and the Fortunes (L5R 3rd ed. p. 72).

Hanako – This family serves the Seppun as magistrates, courtiers, and legal advisors (EE p. 96)

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Yotsu - The Yotsu family, which until recently had been a ronin family, received their family name as thanks for rescuing the Emperor’s heir at great sacrifice to themselves. Since then they have become the protectors of the weak and the defenceless in the Empire. They used to control one of the quarters of Otosan Uchi. Since its fall they refused to leave it, and have dedicated their time and efforts into attempting to clear the city of Shadowland creatures. The Yotsu are the only ronin family ever to have an officially recognized Mon. In the last Winter Court season, the Yotsu were adopted by the Seppun as a vassal family, although they are still allowed to use their own Mon and name (L5R 3rd ed. p. 77).

Toturi – Hantei XXXIX died heirless, possessed by Fu-Leng, seeking to make him his vessel on Ningen-Do. All his kin either perished or were corrupted by the powers of Jigoku. The Otomo, Miya, and Seppun could not find a suitable heir to Hantei’s Throne. The three families decided that only one man could unite the shattered Empire, Toturi, and offered him the Throne. The Lady Sun signalled her approval by hovering over Otosan-Uchi for a whole day. The Toturi family is exceptionally small, consisting only of those who swore to the Winds before Toturi I’s heir was chosen. They are deeply respected, but number only about a dozen, and it is unlikely they’ll remain a family in the long run (L5R 3rd ed. p. 72). Imperial Families Schools: Miya Herald (Courtier) (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 146 see

also Errata and FAQ) Seppun Guardsman [Bushi] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 144) Seppun Shugenja (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 145)

Otomo Courtier (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 145 see also Errata and FAQ)

Toturi Bushi School (4W p. 183)

Imperial Families Paths:

Satoshi's Legacy [Bushi] (SchUp p. 25) Emperor's Blessing [Courtier] (4W p. 20) Seppun Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 150) Otomo's Infiltrators [Bushi] (SchUp p. 25) Seppun Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 150) Otomo Orator [Courtier] (AotD p. 150) Seppun Magistrate [Bushi] (4W p. 20) Naseru's Technique [Courtier] (4W p. 67) Sword of Yotsu [Bushi] (SchUp p. 31) Path of Toturi [Bushi] (4W p. 20)

Imperial Families Advanced Schools: Master of the Courts [Courtier] (4W p. 13) Student of the Ruby Dojo [Bushi] (AotD p. 149) Dojos: Court of the Emperor’s Will [Master of the Courts, Otomo Courtier, Otomo Orator] (EE p. 202) Dojo of the Emperor’s Hand [Path of Toturi, Seppun Duellist, Seppun Guardsman, Seppun Shugenja, Toturi

Bushi School] (EE p. 203) Dojo of the Righteous Word [Emperor's Blessing, Miya Herald, Otomo Orator, Satoshi's Legacy] (AotD p. 141) House of the White Chrysanthemum [Master of the Courts, Otomo Courtier, Otomo's Infiltrators, Otomo Orator]

(AotD p. 140) Sapphire Blade Dojo [Seppun Duellist (bushi), Seppun Magistrate, Seppun Guardsman, Toturi Bushi School]

(AotD p. 139) Sword of Yotsu Dojo [Sword of Yotsu] (AotD p. 145)

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Ronin Ronin are members of the samurai class (or more accurately ji-samurai), who for some reason are not part of a Clan or the Imperial Families. They are servants (for that is the meaning of the word samurai) without master. Most Clan samurai (especially Great Clan samurai) regard them with contempt, as if they were honourless dog. Because of this, and their vulnerability (for who will avenge them, or demand justice for them in court when they are gone?), ronin tend to move around a lot. This allows them to avoid gaining enemies, and gain employment, as they usually have no permanent source of income, or a lord to provide for them financially. The term ronin means “wave men”, which accounts for the Mon some of them bear (although it is by no means a recognized Mon). Ronin come to be in several ways – samurai who disgraced their Clans, or who somehow offended their Daimyo can be thrown out of their Clan and become ronin. Samurai sometimes abandon their Clan due to a dispute with Clan leadership, they also become ronin. The children of these ronin will, most likely be also ronin. Children not recognized by their parents (often because they were born with non-samurai partners) are considered ronin. In the past there have been Ronin families in Rokugan, but recently they have all had their status altered (the Tsi family was awarded Minor Clan status, and is now the ruling family of the Oriole Clan, for Kaeru are now vassals of the Ikoma and the Yotsu are vassals of the Seppun). These are Ronin who have at some point in the past proved their worth and were awarded a Family Name, but not worth receiving a Minor Clan status. This is an extremely rare occurrence. They are considered (by Clan samurai) to be better and more honourable than solitary Ronin, but still not equal to “true samurai” (Special rules for the creation of Ronin Characters can be found in L5R 3rd ed. pp. 88, and 186, rules for creation of characters belonging to Ronin Families can be found on p. 76, but this is now redundant as no Ronin family currently exists)

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Ronin Schools: Kanosei Furudera School [Shugenja] (L5R RPG 3rd ed.

p. 152) Ronin Duellist [Bushi] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 151 see

also Errata and FAQ) Ronin Yojimbo [Bushi] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 151) Master of Games [Courtier] (AotD p. 156)

Militant Shugenja (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 152) Traditional Priest [Shugenja] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 152) Ronin Bushi School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 150) Ronin Paths:

Nanashi Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 157) The Broken Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 28) The Order of Isashi [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 30) Canopy of Knives [Bushi] (SchUp p. 28) The Poisoned Frog [Bushi] (SchUp p. 30) Child of Waters [Bushi] (4W p. 63) The Red Dawn [Bushi] (SchUp p. 30) Cutting the Weave [Bushi] (SchUp p. 28) The Scales of the Carp [Courtier] (SchUp p. 30) The Eyes of Nanashi [Bushi] (AotD p. 156) [ELP] Serpent of Sanada [Bushi] (SchUp p. 30) Flight of Innocence [Bushi] (SchUp p. 29) The Silent Current [Courtier] (SchUp p. 31) The Forest Killer [Bushi] (SchUp p. 29) Suitengu's Children [Bushi] (SchUp p. 31) The Forgotten Sons [Bushi] (SchUp p. 29) [ELP] The Tessen [Bushi] (4W p. 21) The Fortune's Grace [Bushi] (SchUp p. 29) The Unbroken [Bushi] (SchUp p. 31) The Gaze of Sun Tao [Bushi] (SchUp p. 29) [ELP] The Weavers [Ninja] (AotD p. 157) The Hidden Weapon [Bushi] (SchUp p. 30) Wolf Legion [Bushi] (4W p. 22) Kanosei Duellist [Shugenja] (AotD p. 156)

Law of Heavens [Bushi] (SchUp p. 30) Ronin Advanced School: The Machi-Kanshisha [Bushi] (SchUp p. 28) Dojos: Kanosei Furudera Temple [Kanosei Duellist, Kanosei Furudera School, Ronin Yojimbo, Traditional Priest] (EE

p. 204, see also AotD p. 146) Dojo of the Eye [Eyes of Nanashi, Nanashi Duellist, Master of Games, Wolf Legion] (EE p. 204, see also AotD

p. 145) Peasants and Non-Samurai Non-Monks People of the Heimin, Hinin, or Eta classes are not accepted in samurai society, and are generally considered inferior. They are legally prohibited from wielding traditional weapons, and so not have access to Schools. Two particular groups of peasants can still be PCs (although they will be considerably weaker than other characters): Ashigaru – peasants trained in the basic elements of combat. Boduka – particularly talented Ashigaru, who have caught the eye of their master may be selected for special training and become Boduka. Rules for creating such characters may be found in L5R 3rd ed. p. 89.

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The Brotherhood of Shinsei Generally Monks are not part of the samurai class. They occupy a space between samurai and heimin, but are still deeply respected by samurai. In fact, many samurai choose to retire to monasteries, and some join them early in their careers. The Brotherhood follows the teachings of Shinsei, a mysterious figure that appeared early in the history of the Empire and served as teacher to the firs Emperor. He has composed several influential books, the most important of which is commonly referred to as the Tao of Shinsei, in which he detailed the principles of Shintao, which has became (along with the worship of the Fortunes and the Celestial Order) the basis of religion and spirituality in the Empire. After his disappearance groups of people began to form, seeking to learn and expand on his teachings, and incorporate the worship of the fortunes into them. These people came to be known as monks, and Hantei Genji, the Second Emperor, named them the Brotherhood of Shinsei. Soon, however the groups began to splinter, as many different interpretations of the teachings of Shinsei, and their application in the world began to occur. Despite the vast differences in interpretations, and the vehemence of the arguments, monks were never tempted to take up violence against each other. Thus the Brotherhoods came to be a coalition of Sects and Orders, allied in common goal, despite taking many routes and paths towards it. There are many orders in the Brotherhood; those listed here are just the largest. The Order of Osan-Wo, for example, is one of many orders dedicated to various Lesser Fortunes and important Ancestors throughout the Empire. Another such order is the Order of Kaimetsu-Uo, the founder of the Mantis Clan, and even ones dedicated to various personages (sometimes living ones) believed to embody one or more of the principles of bushido. The Order of Osano-Wo – The order dedicated to the Fortune of Thunder and Fire, and the patron of bushi is the most warlike of all Shinseist orders, and its members are often sohei. Members of the orders often take vows denying the body of tangible experiences and benefits. The order is particularly strong in the lands of the Crab and Scorpion, but has connection and influence with most of the martially inclined families throughout the Empire, from the Moto to the Daidoji. When the Brotherhood feels compelled to go to battle, it is almost always the Order of Osano-Wo that leads the charge. The Order of the Seven Fortunes – Monks of the order seek communion with the Fortunes as their primary goal while not ignoring the teachings of Shinsei. This is the most structured and disciplined of the orders in the Brotherhood, and is divided within itself to seven groups each dedicated to one of the Great Fortunes. The order is spread throughout the Empire, which sometimes causes different branches to act independently, almost as if they were an order in and of themselves. The Order of the Seven Thunders – This order places the teachings of Shinsei above all else. Of all of Shinsei’s teachings they emphasise the one that dictates that the human soul is a force that can alter the course of the universe. The order is somewhat dichotomous – on one hand it seeks to spread the teachings and word of Shinsei to the world, encouraging everyone to forge their souls to the betterment of the world, but on the other hand they are extremely scholarly, poring over Shinsei’s writings seeking hidden meanings and interpretations in each and every word. Members of the order travel throughout the breadth and length of the Empire. The Order of the Ten Thousand Temples – The order (known until recently as the Order of the Four Temples) worships the person of the Emperor as the Son of Heaven, the direct descendant of the Sun and the Moon, and the connection between the Mortal World and the Celestial Heavens. They serve as advisors and attendants to the Emperor, safeguards of his personal places of worship, and, currently, assist in the building of the Imperial City.

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Schools of the Brotherhood: The Four Temples [Monk] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 251) The Temple of Osano-Wo [Monk] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p.

251) The Shrine of the Seven Thunders [Monk] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 251) The Temple of the Thousand Fortunes [Monk] (L5R

RPG 3rd ed. p. 251) The Temple of Kaimetsu-uo [Monk] (L5R RPG 3rd ed. p. 251)

Paths of the Brotherhood: Brotherhood Wayfinder [Monk] (SchUp p. 35) Shinden Tengen [Monk] (SchUp p. 35) Brothers of Rebirth [Monk] (SchUp p. 35) Thunder Sohei [Monk] (SchUp p. 35)

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The Shadowlands The Shadowlands, to the southwest of the Empire, were formed at the time of the fall of the Kami. While most of the Kami fell to Ningen-Do safely, Fu-Leng’s crash created a tear in reality where he hit the ground, which extends to Jigoku, the Realm of Evil. Fu-Leng, strongest of the Kami though he may be, could not withstand the dark power of Jigoku and was corrupted by it, as did the entire land surrounding the place of his fall. Thus came an end to the great empire of the nezumi, which thrived there until that time. Everything that remains too close to the Pit of Fu-Leng for too long inevitably becomes corrupt and tainted. The lands are populated with demons, ogres and nezumi (who proved to be immune to the taint). Those humans who contract the taint and are corrupted by it inevitably become the willing servants of the Dark Kami, and are known as “The Lost”. Over the last few years, for the first time ever, a man called Daigotsu has managed to unite all the various residents of the Shadowlands (excluding the nezumi) into a cohesive force. Daigotsu himself is a son of the last Hantei Emperor, who was kidnapped while still a child by bloodspeakers who corrupted him and threw him into Jigoku itself. He has constructed in the depth of the Shadowland a city he called the City of the Lost, and hordes of corrupted men and women flocked to him. From that city, Daigotsu rules the Shadowlands, in a twisted reflection of Imperial reign in Rokugan, having developed a warped version of Bushido. There are several families created in the Shadowlands under Daigotsu’s reign, and while inappropriate for PCs, they are listed here only for the sake of completeness. As the Lost come from all parts of the Empire an all families in the Empire, they often have ranks in one of the schools of Rokugan, without having to take the Different School advantage. All members of these families have some Shadowlands Taint. Recently the Lost have become a Clan they call the Spider Clan (although, of course, they receive no Imperial recognition), after a war broke between the Lost and the Oni of the Shadowlands and their allies. It is not yet clear which of the Lost families actually joined that Clan, and which decided to join the Oni. Chuda – In 339 IC an Imperial Magistrate named Isawa Chuda saved the Emperor’s life from a maho cult. In his gratitude, the Emperor granted him the Chuda family name and Minor Clan status – as the Snake Clan. Although Chuda was an honourable man, and loyal to the Emperor, his great grandson, Chuda Tamihei was seduced by the Oni Shuten Doji, and in 401 IC unleashed it. Shuten Doji immediately set to corrupting the tiny Clan, and within a month took complete control over it. When the rumour reached the Council of Elemental Masters, the entire Phoenix Clan set out to destroy the Snake. In five bloody nights (known as “The Five Nights of Shame”), the Snake was decimated, and no trace could be discerned of the Shuten Doji. A few Chuda survived, however. Those were powerful Maho-Tsukai, who used their power to remain free of the Shuten Doji’s control for awhile, and believed they could use their magic to free their clan from the Oni, were it not for the Phoenix’ intervention. They swore revenge against the Phoenix. They faded into the background and managed, through marriage to insinuate themselves into the Asako family, passing their foul teachings in secrecy from generation to generation. A few years ago, one of the descendants of the Chuda – an Inquisitor named Asako Mishime travelled to the City of the Lost to discovered its secrets, he was exposed by Daigotsu, but begged to be allowed to serve Fu-Leng. Daigotsu agreed and allowed him to recreate the Chuda family. The Chuda are the scholars of the Shadowlands, collecting and researching all that is around them. They are in fact the evil reflection of the Kuni family, and the two families are bent on each other’s destruction (L5R 3rd ed. p. 78). Daigotsu – Though Daigotsu himself is a powerful shugenja, almost all those who swore directly to him are bushi or courtiers. They hate and despise Rokuganni bushi, seeing in them the same feeble compassion that used to be theirs before their eyes were opened by Fu-Leng. Above all, they hate the bushi of the Crab. This is by far the largest Shadowlands family, as virtually all those who venture into the City of Lost are invited to join it. Those who wish to do so must go through a test, which involves a ritual that cuts their ties to their Clan and Ancestors, and fills them with the power of Fu-Leng. There is no distinctive look to the Daigutsu, but generally

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they re those whose appearance is the least obviously tainted, and some could even pass for humans (L5R 3rd ed. p. 78). Goju – The Goju family were once servants of the Lying Darkness. When the latter was defeated they managed to preserve their power, but stranded as they were in the middle of the Shadowlands without the Darkness’ protection, they soon succumbed to the Taint. When the Shadow Dragon appeared they swore fealty to him, and when he allied himself with Daigotsu , so did they. Able to alter their appearance, they are the perfect spies and assassins. Despite this, Daigotsu does not fully trust them, after all they are not loyal to him, but to the Shadow Dragon. The Scorpion, particularly the Shosuro, reserve special hatred to the Goju, and have means of detecting them, as a result the Goju try to avoid the Scorpion whenever possible (L5R 3rd ed. p. 78). The Order of Kokujin – Kokujin was once a Togashi. But he became disappointed by the Kami, and fled the Dragon Mountains to the Shadowlands. There he discovered that his tattoos offer protection from the Taint. He decided to study and wrest Fu Leng’s power. He began to experiment with tattoo magic. He developed a new type of tattoos made in his own blood that, when applied to a human, enslaved him completely. Kokujin found pleasure in kidnapping fellow Dragon and enslaving them thus. Those who are enslaved take up the Kokujin name. Later on, Kokujin came to befriend Daigotsu, who accepted him and his followers in the City of the Lost, even though they never worship the Dark Kami (L5R 3rd ed. p. 79). Shadowlands Schools:

The Ninube Shugenja School (SchUp p. 32) Black Guard School [Bushi] (SchUp p. 32) Temple of Onnotangu [Monk] (SchUp p. 33) Chuda Shugenja School (SchUp p. 32) Temple of Venom [Monk] (SchUp p. 33) Daigotsu Legion [Bushi] (4W p. 191) Voice of Daigotsu [Courtier] (AotD p. 130) Goju Ninja School (4W p. 141)

Shadowlands Paths:

Demon's Breath Acolyte [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 34) The Beauty of Death [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 33) Gongsun's Cloak [Shugnja] (SchUp p. 34) Blood-Forged [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 33) Obsidian Claw Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 133) Cult of the Blood-Red Moon School [Shugenja]

(SchUp p. 34) The Workers of Flesh [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 34) Daigotsu Elite Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 34) Shadowlands Advanced Schools: Champion of the Lost [Bushi] (AotD p. 131) Ogre Bushi School (SchUp p. 33) Mouth of the Lost [Courtier] (AotD p. 132) Dojo: Cursed Blade Dojo [Daigotsu Legion, Obsidian Claw Duellist] (AotD p. 125) The Obsidian Dojo [Champion of the Lost, Daigotsu Legion, Goju Ninja School, Obsidian Claw Duellist] (EE p.

205) Temple of the Forsaken [Maho-Tsukai Shugenja School, Mouth of the Lost, Voice of Daigotsu] (EE p. 204) Voice of the Lost Academy [Voice of the Lost] (AotD p. 127)

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Other Schools Schools Open to All Clans: Maho-Tsukai Shugenja School (L5R RPG 3rd ed. P.

268) The Kenku Swordsmen School [Bushi] (CoR p. 5)

Paths Open to All Clans:

Master Sensei [Any] (SchUp p. 38) [PELP] Black Lotus Smugglers [Courtier] (SchUp p. 37) Naga Blade Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 165) Gentrified Samurai [Courtier] (SchUp p. 37) [PELP] Nameless Ones [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 38) Gunso [Bushi] (SchUp p. 37) [PELP] Steal the Light [Ninja] (SchUp p. 39) Jade Magistrate [Shugenja] (SchUp p. 25) Thunder Guard [Bushi] (SchUp p. 39) Hatamoto [Courtier] (SchUp p. 37) [PELP] Tiger's Claw [Ninja] (SchUp p. 39) Legion of Two Thousand [Bushi] (SchUp p. 38)

Master Keeper [Monk] (SchUp p. 38) [PELP] Advanced Schools Open to All Clans: The Blessed Guard [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 6) Kenku Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 164) Breath of Ekaido [Bushi] (SchUp p. 36) Master General [Bushi] (SchUp p. 36) Emerald Magistrate [Bushi] (SchUp p. 25) Master of the Elements [Shugenja] (4W p. 14) Governor [Courtier] (SchUp0 p. 36) Schools of Non-Canon or Extinct Clans: Heichi Bushi School [Bushi] (SchUp p. 26) Hotaru Bushi School [Bushi] (SchUp p. 26) Schools of NPC Races: Tsuno Bushi School [Bushi] (4W p. 76) Tsuno Soultwisters [Shugenja] (4W p. 77) Paths of NPC Races: Tsuno Duellist (AotD p. 134)

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Non-Humans

Spirits Shapeshifters Many of the denizens of the Spirit Realms can change their form to mimic that of a human (or a naga or a nezumi). This quality is particularly common among the Animal Spirits of Chikushudo (collectively known as hengeyokai), but can be found in some of the Spirits of Tengoku and Sakkaku. Most of the Shapeshifters in Ningen-do are young, as older spirits have satisfied their curiosity, and are content to live in their own realms. Shapeshifter characters are created in the same manner as normal human characters, except that they have no clan affiliation, and choose species instead of family. Shapeshifters may only choose the Shapeshifter School, unless they have the Spirit Power “Alias”. Special rules for Shapeshifters, including prohibited advantages and disadvantages can be found in CoR 3rd p. 7. Bakeneko (Cat) – Curious, playful, mischievous, and hedonistic, these spirits are common in both Chikushudo and Sakkaku (CoR 3rd p. 8). Fushicho (Phoenix) – These glorious firebirds hail from Tengoku, where they serve the Elemental Dragons and the Fortunes directly. They are noble, brave and capable warriors. In their natural form they are beautiful birds with a 12’ wingspan and brilliant, flame-coloured plumage (CoR 3rd p. 8). Inu (Dog) – Friendly, loyal, and eager to please, these spirits of Chikushudo are fierce warriors who will remain forever friends with those who prove their worth, often sacrificing their lives to save a friend in need (CoR 3rd p. 8). Kitsune (Fox) – These spirits of Chikushudo are the most interested in humans, some of them feel that they are the protectors of humanity, and masquerade themselves as humans for years, embracing Bushido in earnest. All kitsune feel a spiritual connection to the Kitsune Mori, and have strong ties with the Fox Clan (CoR 3rd p. 8). Koumori (Bat) – These spirits of Chikushudo are secretive and aloof, and it is their role to escort souls departing to Meido. While all shapeshifters rarely reveal their true nature, Koumori are loath to do so more than any other shapeshifters. So rare are their appearances, that most don’t even know they exist. Some Koumori believe it is their duty to protect the living, as well as the dead (CoR 3rd p. 9). Ryu (Dragon) – These spirits of Tengoku serve the Elemental Dragons directly. They rarely leave the Celestial Heaven, but occasionally one will descend to Ningen-do to observe for its master, or to serve a particularly worthy shugenja. Ryu have a great thirst for knowledge, and often speak in riddles, something that tends to betray their true nature (CoR 3rd p. 9). Saru (Monkey) – These most mischievous of spirits were once spirits of Chikushudo, like all hengeyokai, but have since found their way to Sakkaku, where they remained. Their pranks usually amuse no one but themselves, and are often destructive in nature. However, once shown the error of their ways, they become appreciative of Bushido (CoR 3rd p. 9) Tanuki (Badger) – Spirits of Chikushudo, marked by their jolly nature and hot temper, Tanuki reward those who earn their favour and punish those who make them enemy. They are fiercely loyal, but also bear great grudges. Tanuki have a tendency to shapeshift into inanimate object and hide, waiting for adventure (CoR 3rd p. 10).

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Tsuru (Crane) – Proud to the point of vanity, these elegant spirits of Chikushudo have a link to the kenku, though both races deny any such claim. Tsuru seek the company of those as beautiful as themselves, but their jealous nature make them fickle friends. Those of them who overcome their pride often become great heroes (CoR 3rd p. 10). Usagi (Hare) – Incredibly lucky, but also magnets for trouble, these spirits of Chikushudo are highly adaptable. Their first instinct is usually to flee, but when cornered the prove remarkably tenacious (CoR 3rd p. 10). Shapeshifter School: The Shapeshifter School (CoR 3rd p. 7)

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Spirits of the Dead When a human dies his soul travels to Meido, where the Fortune of Death, Emma-o, decides upon its destiny. Sometimes Emma-o decides that the soul has not completed its final destiny in the world and sends it back to be born on Ningen-do; sometimes he decides that the soul needs to be punished before it can be sent back to the Mortal Realm, and he sends it to Realms where they are punished, temporarily or permanently, often it takes a long time for Emma-o to consider the fate of a soul, during which time it has to wait in Meido. Those spirits, who have completed their reincarnations, are sent to their final destination on the various Spirit Realms. During the Battle of Oblivion’s Gate the borders between the realms became blurred and spirits from Toshigoku, Yomi, Meido, and Gaki-do poured into Ningen-do in large numbers. Several years afterwards, some returned spririts, led by the returned Hantei XVI, staged a revolt and attempted to take over the Empire. During the battles that ensued the Celestial Order was disrupted, as spirits who were not supposed to be on Ningen-do killed samurai before they could fulfil their purpose. This imbalance created the Realm of Thwarted Destiny, Maigo no Musha, and those spirits who inhabit it, are slowly released back to Ningen-do, so they can fulfil their destinies. Spirits of the dead are created like normal humans, purchasing a “Spirit” advantage, or disadvantage.

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Naga The Naga are an ancient race of serpent-like creatures, which predates the rise of humanity, and, in fact, most, if not all, other races. They share a collective awareness known as the Akasha, through which they can access the memories of every Naga who ever lived, and that combines them with their god, the Atman. The Naga built a sprawling, mighty civilization, but at its height they discovered that they were declining in numbers and might. Their seers foresaw a time when the Foul, an entity that seems to encompass both the Shadow and the forces of Nothing, should rise again to destroy the world but the Naga would be no more to fight it. The Naga decided to enter a Great Sleep that would preserve them until that fateful day. For many centuries the cities of the Naga lay hidden in the Shinomen Forest and on the bottom of the seas, and when some of them were discovered by humans, their fate was not always good. Thus in 511 the Emperor Hantei XI ordered the complete destruction of the newly discovered city of Nirukti along with all in it. This resulted in the slaughter of thousands of Greensnake Naga and their eggs. In 925 an expedition of cartographers inadvertently disrupted the operations of one of the artefacts responsible for the Great Sleep, and the Naga began to stir from sleep, finally awakening completely a century later in 1124, to discover a completely altered world, where a mighty empire of a strange small race known as humans was about to become engulfed by civil war. The Naga aided in the battle against the Tainted Crab, the Second Day of Thunder, and later in the War Against the Shadow, but they realized that their awakening was premature and inadvertent, and so they decided to re-enter the Great Sleep. Only a few of the Naga remained behind to defend their sleeping brethren. The Naga are divided to five sub-species, known as Bloodlines, each suited to a specific profession (although members of a specific Bloodlines don’t have to belong to that profession). Naga characters are created in the same manner as humans, except that they have an Akasha rank instead of Void. Akasha functions in the same manner as Void, except that it cannot activate any power or ability that requires Void. Naga have specific skills, advantages, disadvantages, and schools. A list of skills prohibited to Naga can be found on CoR 3rd p. 31. A list of advantages and disadvantages forbidden to Naga can be found on CoR 3rd p. 32. The Asp – The second most numerous of the Naga Bloodlines, they are the warriors, guardians, and protectors of the Naga civilization. They are arrogant, and the most aggressive of all the Naga bloodlines, but are absolutely loyal and devoted to the Naga race. The Asps are similar to the Cobra in size, noticeably larger than the Greensnakes and Chameleons, but much smaller than the Constrictors. They are usually 15-20’ long, and 600-800 lb. heavy (CoR 3rd p. 34). The Chameleon – The second smallest of the Naga Bloodlines, they are noted by their ability to camouflage themselves. Together with the Greensnakes the Chameleons serve as scouts, and tend to the pearl beds that form the basis of both Naga economy and Jakla magic. They are usually 13-17’ long, and 500-700 lb. heavy (CoR 3rd p. 35). The Cobra – The magicians of the Naga race, known as Jakla, hail almost entirely from this Bloodline. The Cobras are enigmatic and misunderstood even by other Naga. The Cobras are obsessive seekers of knowledge and seek to reveal the secrets of the Akasha, and the world outside Naga understanding. Because of their constant exposure to magical energies, Cobras are the most susceptible to mutation, and many of them mutate so heavily that they can communicate only through the Akasha. They are usually 15-20’ long, and 600-850 lb. heavy (CoR 3rd p. 35). The Constrictor – The largest of the Naga are also the fewest in numbers. Many fear the Constrictors are on the brink of extinction. The few surviving Constrictors are solitary beings, commanding respect which borders on reverence from other Naga. The Constrictors possess the closest connection to the Akasha of all other Bloodlines, and therefore serve as historians, philosophers, teachers, and religious leaders of the Naga. Truly massive, the constrictors are usually 25-30’ long, and 1000-1250 lb. heavy (CoR 3rd p. 35).

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The Greensnake – The smallest of bloodlines are also the most numerous. The Greensnakes are the explorers and diplomats of the Naga race. They have negotiated peace among the Naga themselves and are the Voice of the Naga in all contact with the outside world. They are usually 10-15’ long, and 400-600 lb. heavy (CoR 3rd p. 35). Naga Schools: Naga Jakla [Shugenja] (CoR 3rd p. 36) Naga Vedic [Monk] (CoR 3rd p. 38) Naga Scout [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 36) Naga Warrior [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 39) Naga Slayer [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 37) Naga Paths: Hunter [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 40) Shahadet’s Legion [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 40)

Temple Guardian [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 40) Naga Blade Duellist [Bushi] (AotD p. 165) Naga Champion [Bushi] (AotD p. 165) Naga Advanced School: Master of the Akasha [Monk] (CoR 3rd p. 41)

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Nezumi The Nezumi (or Ratlings as they are sometimes called) are a race of man-sized intelligent rodents that predates humanity. Their evolution is peculiar – once a species of rodents grown by the Naga for food purposes, their long exposure to the magic of the Naga combined with the sudden absence of their former masters gave way to the rise of intelligence, and allowed them to forge a sprawling empire and sophisticated culture in what is now the Shadowlands. An empire that defeated the ogre kingdom and rivalled the kingdom of the trolls, long before the Rise of Man. All this came crushing down in one fateful day, which the Nezumi refer to as “The Terrible Day”. On that day Fu Leng hit the ground right in the middle of the largest city of the Nezumi. Pulled by the power of Jigoku, the impact of Fu Leng’s fall was great, creating a terrible explosion and a permanent rift between Ningen-do and Jigoku. Over ¾ of all Nezumi die in the explosion and the chaos that follows, the rest scatter in all directions, eventually establishing groups that would later grow into tribes. In the following generations it becomes increasingly clear that the entire race is slowly going through devolution, affecting their mental capacity – primarily their memory. Only one in ten Nezumi is capable of any significant memory. Early in the history of the Empire, the Nezumi, who are immune to the Shadowlands Taint, forged an alliance with the Crab Clan. Recently the Nezumi formed a loose central government uniting all tribes, called the One Tribe, however not all tribes are as committed to this central government as others. In recent years, the Nezumi have forged an alliance with the Empire of Humans. However, with the creation of the Spider Clan it is uncertain that this alliance should survive for long. Nezumi character creation follows the rules for creating human characters with the modification listed on CoR 3rd pp. 62-63. Blue Fur – The smallest of Nezumi tribes, numbering about two dozens at most, the Blue Fur Tribe has forged a close kinship with the Hiruma family. This closeness to the Crab family has made them the most human-like of all the Nezumi. Their territory is in the southernmost lands of the Hiruma (CoR 3rd p. 65). Broken Shinbone – The Broken Shinbone understand the need for alliance with the Humans better than any other Nezumi tribe, perhaps save for the Blue Fur, in the past they had an alliance with the Lion, but it was lost through no fault of theirs. Recently they have forged a new alliance with the Dragon, which hey are adamant to keep. In exchange for patrolling the Mountains and defending them against the Dark Oracle of Fire, the Dragon provide them with food, and all other provisions. They consider the Humans as a means to a goal – they provide resources in exchange for relatively simple services. Their territory is in the northernmost reaches of the Dragon Mountains (CoR 3rd p. 65). Chipped Tooth – The mariners of the Nezumi, the Chipped Tooth Tribe has learned the ways of the sea from the Yasuki, and maintains close alliance with them and with the Mantis Clan. Gregarious and adventurous, and eager for new experiences and sights they are viewed as reckless by other Nezumi. The Chipped Tooth have very small land territory, in the Yasuki lands, but they spend most of their time in the open sea, which they consider their true domain (CoR 3rd p. 66). Crimson Paw – The second smallest of the Nezumi tribe survives in the hostile Crane environment with no allies or assistance. The Crimson Paw are secretive and reserved, and tend to suspect outsiders, human and Nezumi alike, which is due to their living in the lands of the hostile Crane. The only exception to this is the Tattered Ear Tribe, which they consider close allies. Their territory is in the section of the Crane lands surrounding the Spine of the World (CoR 3rd p. 66). Crippled Bone – No other tribe is as fierce and devoted in war as the Crippled Bone. No other tribe knows more of the Shadowlands, or hates their minions more. The Crippled Bone dwells in the Tainted lands that were once the Hiruma’s (CoR 3rd p. 66).

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Crooked Tail – The most aloof and xenophobic of all Nezumi tribes, the Crooked Tail tribe is dedicated to fighting Nothing, whether as the Lying Darkness, or as its new incarnation – the Shadow Dragon. Years of fighing the ever-changing Darkness, has left the Crooked Tail Tribe paranoid and suspicious, those who reject that state of mind are accused of corruption and are cast out. The territory of the Crooked Tail is composed of a great crystal outcropping northwest of the Shadowlands, which they keep in secret (CoR 3rd p. 66). Grasping Paw – Peerless scavengers and scroungers, humans and Nezumi alike look at the Grasping Paw with suspicion. Even though personal property is a concept no Nezumi fully understands, the Grasping Paw seem to have an even lesser understanding of it. The Grasping Paw will steal anything from anyone not of their tribe, seemingly not even realizing they are doing anything wrong. The dwell in the area known by humans as the Plains Above Evil (CoR 3rd p. 66). Green-Green-White – Formerly xenophobic, the Green-Green-White Tribe has gone through a radical change in outlook over the past generation, and its chieftain is now the chieftain of the One Tribe. They are closely allied with the Ox Clan. The territory of the Green-Green-White includes the northern Phoenix provinces, the lands of the Ox, and the Dragon Heart Plains (CoR 3rd p. 66). Squeaky Eyeball – No tribe is as universally beloved as the Squeaky Eyeball. This is the result of the reputation of the Tribe’s rememberers both for their quality and number. The Squeaky Eyeball Tribe believes that by spreading tales of heroism, both Nezumi and other, they can inspire the recreation of the Nezumi Empire. Extremely friendly, outgoing and gregarious, the Squeaky Eyeball have a great thirst for new stories, and will go to great lengths to make new friends, so as to hear their stories. The remote territory of the Squeaky Eyeballs is located just north of the Twilight Mountain, along Rokugan’s western edge (CoR 3rd p. 66). Stained Paw – For unknown reasons no rememberers have been born to the Stained Paw Tribe over the last generations, and as a result much of the history of the tribe was lost. This made them easy prey for the Tsuno who tricked them into joining powers with the Shadowlands. The trickery of the Tsuno was eventually exposed by other Nezumi, and the Stained Paw turned on their Tsuno masters, and joined the One Tribe. In answer to their plight one famous rememberer, Ik’krt, has joined their ranks. The Stained Paw are surly and quick to anger, and they feel guilty for their treachery of their race (even though no other Nezumi truly blames them), they constantly seek to atone for their failure. The Stained Paw lost their former territory after the Tsuno debacle, and have not yet found permanent dwellings (CoR 3rd p. 67). Tattered Ear – The ambassadors of the Nezumi, the Tattered Ear are the largest of Nezumi tribes. The Tattered Ear have made it their business to study every Clan of humans and their various cultures and traditions. They are remarkably optimistic and open-minded, which likely is the result of their centuries of absence from the Shadowlands, they possess a strong racial pride and consider all Nezumi tribes to be their allies. They are also positively pre-disposed towards humans, and seek acceptance into their courts. The Tattered Ear have the largest migratory territory, which spans from the Shinomen Mori and southern Unicorn lands through southern Scorpion provinces to the Crane lands near the Spine of the World (CoR 3rd p. 67). Third Whisker – The second smallest tribe, the Third Whisker is a tribe of prophets, seers and superstition. Many consider them mad. Their territory is in the warrens under the Kaiu Wall (CoR 3rd p. 67). Nezumi Schools: Berserker [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 68) Scout [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 70) Builder (CoR 3rd p. 68) Scrounger (CoR 3rd p. 70) Chieftain-General (CoR 3rd p. 69) Shaman (CoR 3rd p. 71) Rememberer (CoR 3rd p. 69) Warrior [Bushi] (CoR 3rd p. 71) Nezumi Path: Nezumi Swordman [Bushi] (AotD p. 166)

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Sigla 4W – The Four Winds: The Toturi Dynasty from Gold to Lotus AotD – Art of the Duel CoR 3rd – Creatures of Rokugan, Third Edition EE – Emerald Empire ELP – Entry-Level Path L5R RPG 3rd ed. – Legend of the Five Rings Roleplaying Game, Third Edition PELP – Possible Entry-Level Path (may or may not be taken at entry-level) SchUp – The School Update Project [Page numbers refer to the 4th version of Mikael Brodu’s (Otaku Mike) file] WN – Way of the Ninja Schools in grey are historical school that are inappropriate for contemporary campaign but were included here

for the sake of completeness. Mons in pale colour are historical mons that are no longer valid.

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