Christstan
26-10-2008, 02:55
(Under Construction)
Tengoku Jinshu
People of Heaven
Races
Major Races
Tengoku Jinshu (http://www.friedmanarchives.com/China/Page2/images/Chinese%20Woman%20silk%20painting.jpg) (Humans)
Physical Description: Humanoid sentient creature, adults stand from 5'3 to 6'3. They range in build and stature greatly and can look very different from one another. They have fair skin and black hair.
History: Believed to have migrated from Heaven as a reward from the gods. The gods then sent great dragons to watch over them. The dragons mated with the original people to create the current Tengoku Jinshu and thus the clans were formed by the descendents of each dragon. The dragons taught the people how to live and survive and to use magic, giving each clan a specialization and uniqueness to them. The Great Dragon only took one partner to create the current line of Emperors.
Religion: Tengokudo (Way of Heaven). A religious system based on the belief in a pantheon of gods, respectful, moral living, and Dragons. The religion also venerates ancestors. The religion believes that dragons are the avatars of gods on earth and that they are the greatest of all creatures. There are many gods and spirits that govern things and you must seek to please them to win their favor. The religion also contains a well defined way of living. You must put your honor above yourself, you must put your family above your personal honor, you must live honorably, there is glory in honorable combat, Death before dishonor, generous giving, respect for all life, and a love of nature.
Other: They often hold themselves superior to other races but have deep respect for all life forms, especially sentient races and exceptional creatures (Dragons, Griffons, etc.). Very warlike and seek to prove themselves always.
Naga Jinshu (http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/oa_gallery/Shinomen_naga.jpg)
Physical Description: A cross between Tengoku Jinshu and the Great Naga, they possess the upper body of a Human and the lower half of a Serpent. The Naga Jinshu can grow to be 15 ft long and weigh close to a ton. Very strong and fast. They usually have green hair and spots on their human flesh.
History: When the Great Naga descended onto the world after the Great Meteor, he fought off several Oni (Demons) who sought to destroy the Tengoku Jinshu. He was wounded in battle and before he died, he imbued parts of himself into several people creating the Naga Jinshu. The Naga Jinshu then formed minor clans under their main clan and continued their progenitor’s work - protecting the Tengoku Jinshu. Clans of Naga Jinshu serve their Human brother clans from which they were formed as protectors and elite warriors.
Religion: Tengokudo (Way of Heaven). A religious system based on the belief in a pantheon of gods, respectful, moral living, and Dragons. The religion also venerates ancestors. The religion believes that dragons are the avatars of gods on earth and that they are the greatest of all creatures. There are many gods and spirits that govern things and you must seek to please them to win their favor. The religion also contains a well defined way of living. You must put your honor above yourself, you must put your family above your personal honor, you must live honorably, there is glory in honorable combat, Death before dishonor, generous giving, respect for all life, and a love of nature.
Other: While still considered to be part of the larger Clans, Naga form individual clans amongst themselves. They almost always serve as the bodyguards and shock troops of great lords.
Minor Races
Politics
Gozoku (The Great Clans)
Descended from the most powerful of dragons, the Great clans vie for power and control of the Imperial Court. Each clan utilizes special magic and tactics that the other clans usually don’t specialize in. Each great clan has a great many sub-clans and vassal clans that serve them.
The Tengoku
http://www.stampfrancisco.com/Images/Thumbs2/29-124.jpg
The Imperial Family, said to be descendants of the Great Dragon. They have de jure power over the entire country but the clan itself directly controls only one city and the surrounding fields. The Imperial Family has long realized its weak position and plays the clans off one another in order to stay in power and stay powerful. The clan usually does not breed outside and thus the family has a confusing web of relations.
Element: Earth
Patron Deity: Ookii Ryu, The Great Dragon, The progenitor of the Imperial family, the Great Avatar of the gods. He is believed to be the most powerful Dragon and is the wisest of all.
Capital: Shinoka, the largest city in the Empire, it thrives on trade and service industry to the many rich who populate the area. It is a cultural haven with a great many architectural wonders and boasts the finest fortifications in the land. The city is home to the greatest schools of Magic and art in the land. The city is considered holy and contains the largest temple ever constructed in the empire.
Imperial Palace
Ryu Temple
Primary Unit: Imperial Spearmen
Imperial Spearmen are elite warriors usually drawn from the peasant class so that they have no aspirations to control or gain power in the Imperial Court. They are trained from birth and form powerful spear walls utilizing very long spears. Imperial Spearmen are some of the finest foot soldiers in the empire, however there are few of them.
Secondary Units:
Imperial Household Cavalry (http://images.google.com/url?q=http://www.freewebs.com/warriorsofnippon/mounted%2520samurai.jpg&usg=AFQjCNHE5TBlQoQ3ckzZBmWKszaLm3m11w) - Comprised of the cousins and distant relatives of the Emperor, the Household cavalry are well trained mounted warriors. Hardly ever used in battle, a very decorative parade unit. Noted for their uniformly black armor and banner of the Sacred Sun.
Imperial Naga - Naga loyal to the Emperor and serve as his bodyguards. They can be seen guarding his palace and accompanying him everywhere. Utilize long halberds, they are fearsome in battle and the most elite Naga unit.
(These are just special units, they still have your basic soldiers)
Leader: Emperor Asekawa IV (http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/l5r/images/thumb/a/af/Isawa_Sezaru.jpg/200px-Isawa_Sezaru.jpg).
Son of Asekawa III, he is said to be one of the wisest emperors to have ever lived. He has brought back a great deal of prestige to the position of Emperor and commands much more influence than previous Emperors. He is not the puppet of any single clan as he distrusts most of his ministers.
Champion: Prince Tengoku Shirokawa (http://th74.deviantart.com/fs29/300W/f/2008/165/9/4/Samurai_by_lubliner.jpg)
Grandnephew of the Emperor, 1st son of Shirokatsu, 2nd son of the former Emperor. Shirokawa is said to be unmatched in his mastery of the Twin Sword Style. He has been given the title of Kensei (Sword Saint) by his contemporaries.
Sorcerer: Prince Tengoku Yamakawa
A distant relative of the Emperor, Yamakawa is a master of evocation and Battle Magic. His very presence on the battlefield has broken up battles. In a large scale battle, his spells can often turn the tide in an all but lost scenario. He is a Master in the College of Magic.
Dramatis Personae
The Umi
http://www.stampfrancisco.com/Images/Thumbs2/29-517.jpg
A highly cultured clan, said to be descendents of the Sea Dragon. Built their power through diplomacy and trade. The Umi control a great deal of the trade in the empire, especially in silk and silver. The Umi tend to stay neutral during wars, but use diplomacy to play the belligerents to gain something. Through diplomacy the Umi have risen to the richest clan in the Empire and devote a great deal of time to education of its people. Many of the greatest Sorcerers have come from the Umi clan.
Element: Water
Patron Deity: Umi-domo, Lord of the Sea, said to be the main creator and watchman of the sea.
Culture: The Umi are adventerous and enterprising, always seeking new means of life and living. They are generally friendly to all they meet. They trade greatly and view the profession as honorable (unlike most clan who put merchants very low in class). The Umi are a highly cultured and learned people, even down to the lowliest farmer. They strive for perfection in all things and thus are known to devote themselves to a single craft.
Capital: Kitoshima, a large city along the coast that is covered in houses, markets, schools, and temples. The docks of the city are the most expansive in the empire and can hold several large fleets of ships. The Kitoshima Academy of Magic dominates the eastern portion of the city.
Kitoshima Academy of Magic (http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/l5r/images/thumb/d/d6/Kyuden_Gotei.jpg/250px-Kyuden_Gotei.jpg)
Primary Unit: Ashigaru (Light Infantry)
The Umi utilize lightly armed, fast moving infantry as the bread and butter of their armies. They use flexible formations that are highly responsive to the enemies movements. The Umi Light Infantry can travel great distances in a short period of time and thus often encircle and outflank enemies. Man for man, Umi Light Infantry are very poor individually, and thus have to use exceptional strategy to find victory.
Leader: Umi Kenshin II (http://members.tripod.com/~AprilLee/ccgl5r/yasukiheikichi500c.jpg)
Kenshin is the son of Umi Kenda III, he is claimed to be extremely intelligent and a very honorable man. He has led the clan for the past 20 years and the clan has risen in status since he took over. Known to be an extreme pacifist, he has lead his clan through 20 years of relative peace.
Champion: Tazekawa Iroyama (http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/4586/cranevp9.jpg)
Born to the Tazekawa, a vassal clan of the Umi, Iroyama has proven himself in several battles against the enemies of the Umi. Iroyama utilizes the Swift Sword Style.
Sorcerer: Umi Kensho
Brother of Kenshin, Kensho has demonstrated superior skills in Alteration Magic.
Dramatis Personae
The Takaiyama
http://cache.spreadshirt.net/users/1630000/1629341/motives/651/1629341_5469651_huge.jpg
Undoubtedly the most warlike clan, the Takaiyama pay particular attention to the “Glory in Battle” and “Death before Dishonor” codes of Tengokudo. The Takaiyama have clawed their way to power, trampling over those who oppose them. The Takaiyama survive by tribute from vassal clans, and payment from client clans to protect them, the Takaiyama also have bountiful stores of iron from which to forge weapons. It is not wise to fight with the Takaiyama, although usually you don’t have a choice. The Takaiyama prey on the fear that most people have of them and seek to bring it out in all they do.
Element: Fire
Patron Deity: Bishmonten, God of battle, Patron of the warrior.
Capital: Takaiyama Shiro (Tall Mountain Fortress) The capital of the Takaiyama is said to be impenetrable. The city is simply a giant fort complex built on the face of a mountain at the end of a valley. The valley leading to the city is protected by a giant wall and massive gate, the gate has only ever been breached once, but the castle was too great even then. Rice paddies and farms lie between the main castle and the wall, which are used to feed the soldiers inside.
Primary Unit: Takaiyama Swordsmen
Warriors trained from birth in the art of the sword and bow, Takaiyama swordsmen are some of the fiercest warriors in battle. Takaiyama Swordsmen are wear medium armor and carry swords and short bows into battle. They pepper their enemies with arrows before charging in a frenzy.
Leader: Takaiyama Ryuoni V (http://st.deviantart.com/minish/main/blank.png)
Son of Ryuoni IV, Ryuoni is praised as the greatest warrior of his time. Having mastered the Demon Dragon Style of his ancestors, he fought in over 150 duels and won all of them. He is also noted to be a master tactician who knows how to utilize the fear of his enemy.
Champion: Takaiyama Ryuoni (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h265/marramraabe/L5RIkoma1.jpg)
Son of Ryuoni V, heir to the clan, Ryuoni has nearly perfected the extremely difficult Demon Dragon style making him a most formidable opponent. Likely the best swordsman of his generation, he seeks to surpass his father in accomplishments and renown.
Special Units:
Takaiyama Cavalry: The Takaiyama utilize fearsome Heavy Cavalry that often wear the manes of fierce animals they have killed as decoration to their armor. Most Takaiyama Samurai fight in Heavy Cavalry units. Units usually break and flee before facing the Takaiyama Cavalry.
Takaiyama Champions: The Takaiyama boast the fiercest warriors in the Empire and they show this by having single champions and small groups of champions serve as an independent fighting force on the battlefield. These warriors have been said to be worth a thousand soldiers a piece and Takaiyama lords compete to have the best Champions. A single Takaiyama Champion can cause so much fear in enemy units through their reputation, that units often break at the sight of him. Champions wear and use whatever weapons and armor they choose and have one thing in common - Reckless Abandon. They have no fears of death and will often get drunk before a battle so as not to feel any pain and have no reservations. Takaiyama Champions usually decapitate all the men they have killed and keep the heads as trophies. Those champions that live to retirement have usually racked up a few thousand heads.
Sorcerer: Hideaki Shoju
A Conjuration master, he summons fearsome creatures into battle against his enemies. He is rumored to have the skins of many men he has killed.
Dramatis Personae
The Kaze
http://img154.imageshack.us/img154/6909/monredflower1wg.gif
The Kaze have a reputation for their brutality and betrayals. The Kaze utilize espionage and subterfuge to achieve their ends, rarely ever doing things openly. The Kaze have a great many enemies, but their enemies usually cannot do anything to the Kaze due to a long list of secrets the Kaze keep on almost everyone. Fear of their assassins keep those who have the power to stop them from doing much. Hardly seen as honorable, the Kaze have many practices that the rest of the empire views as questionable.
Element: Air
Patron Deity: Shikuza Kaze (Lord of the Silent Shadow)
Culture: The Kaze clan is heavily divided amongst several houses that exist within the clan. The dominant house is Kaze-Shiro, descendants of Kaze Shiro, 1st son of the founding lord. The various houses jockey for power and wealth but rarely drag their battles into the open. It is customary to betray and eliminate your opponents quietly, the smart survive. Power and greed drive most high ranking Kaze clan members, the lower classes emulate their lords in their business practices and way of life. The lowliest peasants just try to survive the ploys of their masters as pawns in their game. People are kept in check by use of fear and black mail, this is also a means for a rise in position. A very secretive society also. They are rarely infiltrated by outsiders and when threatened by an outside force, one clan usually forces the other clans into submission and unites them strongly against the outside foe.
History: The Kaze are believed to be descendents of the Black Dragon Kaze (Shadow) who taught them the Dark Arts and how to utilize the shadows. For long the Kaze existed solely as spies and assassins of greater clans until finally they had amassed so much information on so many leaders, they began to exploit their knowledge and amassed wealth and power. The Kaze rise was rapid, it is believed they even had blackmailed the Emperor in order to gain the city they later renamed Kaze. The Kaze have fought several border skirmishes to put other clans into line with their goals. In the Great War, the Kaze frequently shifted sides to their own advantage. In recent years a great split has occurred in the clan between the houses and the Kaze clan has been largely isolated by the other major clans.
Capital: Kaze, a city full of corruption and decadence. Frequent murders and kidnappings make disappearances quite common. Feuds between the various lords of the Kaze embroil the city in a hidden war and most of its citizens are forced to take sides. The city is a sprawling metropolitan area dotted with a great many forts and small castles that the lords of the Kaze house themselves in and keep their warriors.
Primary Unit: Orc Warrior
Loathe to take to the field themselves, they utilize the strength of an Orc clan they have half enslaved, half hired. The Orcs know that if they are to live comfortably, they must serve loyally and that their families will be treated well for battlefield service creating an ultra zealous fighting force. Each Kaze lord has his own contingent of Orc warriors.
Special Units:
Order of Shikuza Kaze: An order devoted to the art of espionage and the silent kill, the Shikuza Kaze brothers are deadly opponents. They utilize a special school of “Shadow Magic” augmented by others to aid them in their battles. Shadow magic is most akin to alteration with a few changes. They use short swords, poison, and an assortment of side arms and tools. Most powerful at night. The order works for pay and has tabs on everyone. The Kaze lords employ the Shikuza Kaze to do their bidding and collect information. Little else is known on the whereabouts or structure of the OSK.
Leader: Kaze Masamune
A cruel, corrupt, and greedy man who seeks nothing but his own gain. He is said to have killed his own brother in order to gain a monopoly on the recently discovered gem mines and killed his father to take one of his concubines and inherit the throne faster. He is always suspicious of foul play and keeps a great many guards with him.
Champion:
Sorcerer: Master Toshi
A master of the Dark Arts, few interact with him and even few cross him. There seems to be no limit to his cruelty. It is rumored he captures children of villages and experiments on them.
Dramatis Personae
The Ichiro
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/62/Ashikaga_mon.svg/120px-Ashikaga_mon.svg.png
A clan with its roots deeply intertwined with the Imperial Family, the Ichiro have served loyally for centuries. Commonly known as the “protectors”, the Ichiro will only go to battle if the cause is just and the outcome favorable. They are often petitioned by smaller clans for protection and aide. The Ichiro are known for their fierce code of honor and justice and have produced many legends of old. The smallest of the Great Clans, but by far the most respected by all (with the exception of the emperor).
Element: Earth
Patron Deity: Akura, Lady of the Earth, protector of the people.
Culture: The Ichiro are a people of farmers and craftsmen. Some fish, but regardless of their craft they are known for their hard work ethic and devotion. The Ichiro are quick to fight in a battle they deem as just and are swift to seek justice for a crime done to them or others. They are highly community oriented, even more so than most clans. They love their leaders like gods and defer to their wisdom in many things. The Ichiro seek beauty in nature and thus often sport lavish gardens and live in areas of natural beauty. Waterfalls and lotus flowers have special meaning to them.
Capital: Akura, City of gardens. A large city home to many of the prominent Ichiro clansmen and their kin. The city is surrounded by extensive farms and inside the city is very similar. The city is very open and filled with greenery, unlike many urbanized and congested cities. A river runs through the center and divides the city in halves.
Primary Unit: Heavy Infantry
The Ichiro utilize heavily armed and armored foot soldiers, not just samurai, but even the peasants receive better armor than most. These units march in solid formations and are nearly unbreakable on the defensive. They often force their enemies into positions where they have to attack the Heavy Infantry on unfavorable ground.
Special Units:
The Ichiro Archers (http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/l5r/images/thumb/5/57/Tsuruchi_Bounty_Hunter.jpg/250px-Tsuruchi_Bounty_Hunter.jpg): The most fearsome soldiers to wield a bow in all the empire. Units of Ichiro Archers usually travel in small bands, however during wartime they mass themselves into units and crush their opponents. Any man to carry a bow in the Ichiro clan must follow the tenets of the Ichiro Archer. Every band calling themselves Ichiro Archers seek to prove their ability through adventure and battle and sometimes leave the clan to fight for others in noble wars. A master archer usually combines skill with the arcane to be truly deadly.
Ryudo Monks (http://l5r.alderac.com/archive/resources/l5r_de_dragon_1152.jpg): Monks devoted to the worship of Ookii Ryu. They wear no armor and bear a distinct dragon seal. They wield enormous influence in the Ichiro courts and often times, warriors will devote themselves to the cause but not join the order. The order monks themselves practice Ryudo (Way of the Dragon) which utilizes two swords in a fast moving, arching, and acrobatic art. The monks often travel alone but when summoned by the clan for service, serve as battlefield advisors and champions.
Leader: Ichiro Himura
One of the youngest Daimyo, Himura inherited the throne after his father was assassinated. The quest to discover who and why his father was killed has become a major drive for his life. Himura is said to be fearless in danger.
Champion: Miromoto Yoshimitsu (http://images.wikia.com/l5r/images/f/f7/Mirumoto_Uso.jpg)
Sorcerer: Master Roshi (http://empires.strategyplanet.gamespy.com/images/empires/sorcerer_concept_art_large.jpg)
One of the most respected Sorcerers in the empire, Roshi sits on the council of several prominent magical associations and is proficient in many arts.
Dramatis Personae
Tengoku Jinshu
People of Heaven
Races
Major Races
Tengoku Jinshu (http://www.friedmanarchives.com/China/Page2/images/Chinese%20Woman%20silk%20painting.jpg) (Humans)
Physical Description: Humanoid sentient creature, adults stand from 5'3 to 6'3. They range in build and stature greatly and can look very different from one another. They have fair skin and black hair.
History: Believed to have migrated from Heaven as a reward from the gods. The gods then sent great dragons to watch over them. The dragons mated with the original people to create the current Tengoku Jinshu and thus the clans were formed by the descendents of each dragon. The dragons taught the people how to live and survive and to use magic, giving each clan a specialization and uniqueness to them. The Great Dragon only took one partner to create the current line of Emperors.
Religion: Tengokudo (Way of Heaven). A religious system based on the belief in a pantheon of gods, respectful, moral living, and Dragons. The religion also venerates ancestors. The religion believes that dragons are the avatars of gods on earth and that they are the greatest of all creatures. There are many gods and spirits that govern things and you must seek to please them to win their favor. The religion also contains a well defined way of living. You must put your honor above yourself, you must put your family above your personal honor, you must live honorably, there is glory in honorable combat, Death before dishonor, generous giving, respect for all life, and a love of nature.
Other: They often hold themselves superior to other races but have deep respect for all life forms, especially sentient races and exceptional creatures (Dragons, Griffons, etc.). Very warlike and seek to prove themselves always.
Naga Jinshu (http://www.wizards.com/dnd/images/oa_gallery/Shinomen_naga.jpg)
Physical Description: A cross between Tengoku Jinshu and the Great Naga, they possess the upper body of a Human and the lower half of a Serpent. The Naga Jinshu can grow to be 15 ft long and weigh close to a ton. Very strong and fast. They usually have green hair and spots on their human flesh.
History: When the Great Naga descended onto the world after the Great Meteor, he fought off several Oni (Demons) who sought to destroy the Tengoku Jinshu. He was wounded in battle and before he died, he imbued parts of himself into several people creating the Naga Jinshu. The Naga Jinshu then formed minor clans under their main clan and continued their progenitor’s work - protecting the Tengoku Jinshu. Clans of Naga Jinshu serve their Human brother clans from which they were formed as protectors and elite warriors.
Religion: Tengokudo (Way of Heaven). A religious system based on the belief in a pantheon of gods, respectful, moral living, and Dragons. The religion also venerates ancestors. The religion believes that dragons are the avatars of gods on earth and that they are the greatest of all creatures. There are many gods and spirits that govern things and you must seek to please them to win their favor. The religion also contains a well defined way of living. You must put your honor above yourself, you must put your family above your personal honor, you must live honorably, there is glory in honorable combat, Death before dishonor, generous giving, respect for all life, and a love of nature.
Other: While still considered to be part of the larger Clans, Naga form individual clans amongst themselves. They almost always serve as the bodyguards and shock troops of great lords.
Minor Races
Politics
Gozoku (The Great Clans)
Descended from the most powerful of dragons, the Great clans vie for power and control of the Imperial Court. Each clan utilizes special magic and tactics that the other clans usually don’t specialize in. Each great clan has a great many sub-clans and vassal clans that serve them.
The Tengoku
http://www.stampfrancisco.com/Images/Thumbs2/29-124.jpg
The Imperial Family, said to be descendants of the Great Dragon. They have de jure power over the entire country but the clan itself directly controls only one city and the surrounding fields. The Imperial Family has long realized its weak position and plays the clans off one another in order to stay in power and stay powerful. The clan usually does not breed outside and thus the family has a confusing web of relations.
Element: Earth
Patron Deity: Ookii Ryu, The Great Dragon, The progenitor of the Imperial family, the Great Avatar of the gods. He is believed to be the most powerful Dragon and is the wisest of all.
Capital: Shinoka, the largest city in the Empire, it thrives on trade and service industry to the many rich who populate the area. It is a cultural haven with a great many architectural wonders and boasts the finest fortifications in the land. The city is home to the greatest schools of Magic and art in the land. The city is considered holy and contains the largest temple ever constructed in the empire.
Imperial Palace
Ryu Temple
Primary Unit: Imperial Spearmen
Imperial Spearmen are elite warriors usually drawn from the peasant class so that they have no aspirations to control or gain power in the Imperial Court. They are trained from birth and form powerful spear walls utilizing very long spears. Imperial Spearmen are some of the finest foot soldiers in the empire, however there are few of them.
Secondary Units:
Imperial Household Cavalry (http://images.google.com/url?q=http://www.freewebs.com/warriorsofnippon/mounted%2520samurai.jpg&usg=AFQjCNHE5TBlQoQ3ckzZBmWKszaLm3m11w) - Comprised of the cousins and distant relatives of the Emperor, the Household cavalry are well trained mounted warriors. Hardly ever used in battle, a very decorative parade unit. Noted for their uniformly black armor and banner of the Sacred Sun.
Imperial Naga - Naga loyal to the Emperor and serve as his bodyguards. They can be seen guarding his palace and accompanying him everywhere. Utilize long halberds, they are fearsome in battle and the most elite Naga unit.
(These are just special units, they still have your basic soldiers)
Leader: Emperor Asekawa IV (http://images4.wikia.nocookie.net/l5r/images/thumb/a/af/Isawa_Sezaru.jpg/200px-Isawa_Sezaru.jpg).
Son of Asekawa III, he is said to be one of the wisest emperors to have ever lived. He has brought back a great deal of prestige to the position of Emperor and commands much more influence than previous Emperors. He is not the puppet of any single clan as he distrusts most of his ministers.
Champion: Prince Tengoku Shirokawa (http://th74.deviantart.com/fs29/300W/f/2008/165/9/4/Samurai_by_lubliner.jpg)
Grandnephew of the Emperor, 1st son of Shirokatsu, 2nd son of the former Emperor. Shirokawa is said to be unmatched in his mastery of the Twin Sword Style. He has been given the title of Kensei (Sword Saint) by his contemporaries.
Sorcerer: Prince Tengoku Yamakawa
A distant relative of the Emperor, Yamakawa is a master of evocation and Battle Magic. His very presence on the battlefield has broken up battles. In a large scale battle, his spells can often turn the tide in an all but lost scenario. He is a Master in the College of Magic.
Dramatis Personae
The Umi
http://www.stampfrancisco.com/Images/Thumbs2/29-517.jpg
A highly cultured clan, said to be descendents of the Sea Dragon. Built their power through diplomacy and trade. The Umi control a great deal of the trade in the empire, especially in silk and silver. The Umi tend to stay neutral during wars, but use diplomacy to play the belligerents to gain something. Through diplomacy the Umi have risen to the richest clan in the Empire and devote a great deal of time to education of its people. Many of the greatest Sorcerers have come from the Umi clan.
Element: Water
Patron Deity: Umi-domo, Lord of the Sea, said to be the main creator and watchman of the sea.
Culture: The Umi are adventerous and enterprising, always seeking new means of life and living. They are generally friendly to all they meet. They trade greatly and view the profession as honorable (unlike most clan who put merchants very low in class). The Umi are a highly cultured and learned people, even down to the lowliest farmer. They strive for perfection in all things and thus are known to devote themselves to a single craft.
Capital: Kitoshima, a large city along the coast that is covered in houses, markets, schools, and temples. The docks of the city are the most expansive in the empire and can hold several large fleets of ships. The Kitoshima Academy of Magic dominates the eastern portion of the city.
Kitoshima Academy of Magic (http://images2.wikia.nocookie.net/l5r/images/thumb/d/d6/Kyuden_Gotei.jpg/250px-Kyuden_Gotei.jpg)
Primary Unit: Ashigaru (Light Infantry)
The Umi utilize lightly armed, fast moving infantry as the bread and butter of their armies. They use flexible formations that are highly responsive to the enemies movements. The Umi Light Infantry can travel great distances in a short period of time and thus often encircle and outflank enemies. Man for man, Umi Light Infantry are very poor individually, and thus have to use exceptional strategy to find victory.
Leader: Umi Kenshin II (http://members.tripod.com/~AprilLee/ccgl5r/yasukiheikichi500c.jpg)
Kenshin is the son of Umi Kenda III, he is claimed to be extremely intelligent and a very honorable man. He has led the clan for the past 20 years and the clan has risen in status since he took over. Known to be an extreme pacifist, he has lead his clan through 20 years of relative peace.
Champion: Tazekawa Iroyama (http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/4586/cranevp9.jpg)
Born to the Tazekawa, a vassal clan of the Umi, Iroyama has proven himself in several battles against the enemies of the Umi. Iroyama utilizes the Swift Sword Style.
Sorcerer: Umi Kensho
Brother of Kenshin, Kensho has demonstrated superior skills in Alteration Magic.
Dramatis Personae
The Takaiyama
http://cache.spreadshirt.net/users/1630000/1629341/motives/651/1629341_5469651_huge.jpg
Undoubtedly the most warlike clan, the Takaiyama pay particular attention to the “Glory in Battle” and “Death before Dishonor” codes of Tengokudo. The Takaiyama have clawed their way to power, trampling over those who oppose them. The Takaiyama survive by tribute from vassal clans, and payment from client clans to protect them, the Takaiyama also have bountiful stores of iron from which to forge weapons. It is not wise to fight with the Takaiyama, although usually you don’t have a choice. The Takaiyama prey on the fear that most people have of them and seek to bring it out in all they do.
Element: Fire
Patron Deity: Bishmonten, God of battle, Patron of the warrior.
Capital: Takaiyama Shiro (Tall Mountain Fortress) The capital of the Takaiyama is said to be impenetrable. The city is simply a giant fort complex built on the face of a mountain at the end of a valley. The valley leading to the city is protected by a giant wall and massive gate, the gate has only ever been breached once, but the castle was too great even then. Rice paddies and farms lie between the main castle and the wall, which are used to feed the soldiers inside.
Primary Unit: Takaiyama Swordsmen
Warriors trained from birth in the art of the sword and bow, Takaiyama swordsmen are some of the fiercest warriors in battle. Takaiyama Swordsmen are wear medium armor and carry swords and short bows into battle. They pepper their enemies with arrows before charging in a frenzy.
Leader: Takaiyama Ryuoni V (http://st.deviantart.com/minish/main/blank.png)
Son of Ryuoni IV, Ryuoni is praised as the greatest warrior of his time. Having mastered the Demon Dragon Style of his ancestors, he fought in over 150 duels and won all of them. He is also noted to be a master tactician who knows how to utilize the fear of his enemy.
Champion: Takaiyama Ryuoni (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h265/marramraabe/L5RIkoma1.jpg)
Son of Ryuoni V, heir to the clan, Ryuoni has nearly perfected the extremely difficult Demon Dragon style making him a most formidable opponent. Likely the best swordsman of his generation, he seeks to surpass his father in accomplishments and renown.
Special Units:
Takaiyama Cavalry: The Takaiyama utilize fearsome Heavy Cavalry that often wear the manes of fierce animals they have killed as decoration to their armor. Most Takaiyama Samurai fight in Heavy Cavalry units. Units usually break and flee before facing the Takaiyama Cavalry.
Takaiyama Champions: The Takaiyama boast the fiercest warriors in the Empire and they show this by having single champions and small groups of champions serve as an independent fighting force on the battlefield. These warriors have been said to be worth a thousand soldiers a piece and Takaiyama lords compete to have the best Champions. A single Takaiyama Champion can cause so much fear in enemy units through their reputation, that units often break at the sight of him. Champions wear and use whatever weapons and armor they choose and have one thing in common - Reckless Abandon. They have no fears of death and will often get drunk before a battle so as not to feel any pain and have no reservations. Takaiyama Champions usually decapitate all the men they have killed and keep the heads as trophies. Those champions that live to retirement have usually racked up a few thousand heads.
Sorcerer: Hideaki Shoju
A Conjuration master, he summons fearsome creatures into battle against his enemies. He is rumored to have the skins of many men he has killed.
Dramatis Personae
The Kaze
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The Kaze have a reputation for their brutality and betrayals. The Kaze utilize espionage and subterfuge to achieve their ends, rarely ever doing things openly. The Kaze have a great many enemies, but their enemies usually cannot do anything to the Kaze due to a long list of secrets the Kaze keep on almost everyone. Fear of their assassins keep those who have the power to stop them from doing much. Hardly seen as honorable, the Kaze have many practices that the rest of the empire views as questionable.
Element: Air
Patron Deity: Shikuza Kaze (Lord of the Silent Shadow)
Culture: The Kaze clan is heavily divided amongst several houses that exist within the clan. The dominant house is Kaze-Shiro, descendants of Kaze Shiro, 1st son of the founding lord. The various houses jockey for power and wealth but rarely drag their battles into the open. It is customary to betray and eliminate your opponents quietly, the smart survive. Power and greed drive most high ranking Kaze clan members, the lower classes emulate their lords in their business practices and way of life. The lowliest peasants just try to survive the ploys of their masters as pawns in their game. People are kept in check by use of fear and black mail, this is also a means for a rise in position. A very secretive society also. They are rarely infiltrated by outsiders and when threatened by an outside force, one clan usually forces the other clans into submission and unites them strongly against the outside foe.
History: The Kaze are believed to be descendents of the Black Dragon Kaze (Shadow) who taught them the Dark Arts and how to utilize the shadows. For long the Kaze existed solely as spies and assassins of greater clans until finally they had amassed so much information on so many leaders, they began to exploit their knowledge and amassed wealth and power. The Kaze rise was rapid, it is believed they even had blackmailed the Emperor in order to gain the city they later renamed Kaze. The Kaze have fought several border skirmishes to put other clans into line with their goals. In the Great War, the Kaze frequently shifted sides to their own advantage. In recent years a great split has occurred in the clan between the houses and the Kaze clan has been largely isolated by the other major clans.
Capital: Kaze, a city full of corruption and decadence. Frequent murders and kidnappings make disappearances quite common. Feuds between the various lords of the Kaze embroil the city in a hidden war and most of its citizens are forced to take sides. The city is a sprawling metropolitan area dotted with a great many forts and small castles that the lords of the Kaze house themselves in and keep their warriors.
Primary Unit: Orc Warrior
Loathe to take to the field themselves, they utilize the strength of an Orc clan they have half enslaved, half hired. The Orcs know that if they are to live comfortably, they must serve loyally and that their families will be treated well for battlefield service creating an ultra zealous fighting force. Each Kaze lord has his own contingent of Orc warriors.
Special Units:
Order of Shikuza Kaze: An order devoted to the art of espionage and the silent kill, the Shikuza Kaze brothers are deadly opponents. They utilize a special school of “Shadow Magic” augmented by others to aid them in their battles. Shadow magic is most akin to alteration with a few changes. They use short swords, poison, and an assortment of side arms and tools. Most powerful at night. The order works for pay and has tabs on everyone. The Kaze lords employ the Shikuza Kaze to do their bidding and collect information. Little else is known on the whereabouts or structure of the OSK.
Leader: Kaze Masamune
A cruel, corrupt, and greedy man who seeks nothing but his own gain. He is said to have killed his own brother in order to gain a monopoly on the recently discovered gem mines and killed his father to take one of his concubines and inherit the throne faster. He is always suspicious of foul play and keeps a great many guards with him.
Champion:
Sorcerer: Master Toshi
A master of the Dark Arts, few interact with him and even few cross him. There seems to be no limit to his cruelty. It is rumored he captures children of villages and experiments on them.
Dramatis Personae
The Ichiro
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A clan with its roots deeply intertwined with the Imperial Family, the Ichiro have served loyally for centuries. Commonly known as the “protectors”, the Ichiro will only go to battle if the cause is just and the outcome favorable. They are often petitioned by smaller clans for protection and aide. The Ichiro are known for their fierce code of honor and justice and have produced many legends of old. The smallest of the Great Clans, but by far the most respected by all (with the exception of the emperor).
Element: Earth
Patron Deity: Akura, Lady of the Earth, protector of the people.
Culture: The Ichiro are a people of farmers and craftsmen. Some fish, but regardless of their craft they are known for their hard work ethic and devotion. The Ichiro are quick to fight in a battle they deem as just and are swift to seek justice for a crime done to them or others. They are highly community oriented, even more so than most clans. They love their leaders like gods and defer to their wisdom in many things. The Ichiro seek beauty in nature and thus often sport lavish gardens and live in areas of natural beauty. Waterfalls and lotus flowers have special meaning to them.
Capital: Akura, City of gardens. A large city home to many of the prominent Ichiro clansmen and their kin. The city is surrounded by extensive farms and inside the city is very similar. The city is very open and filled with greenery, unlike many urbanized and congested cities. A river runs through the center and divides the city in halves.
Primary Unit: Heavy Infantry
The Ichiro utilize heavily armed and armored foot soldiers, not just samurai, but even the peasants receive better armor than most. These units march in solid formations and are nearly unbreakable on the defensive. They often force their enemies into positions where they have to attack the Heavy Infantry on unfavorable ground.
Special Units:
The Ichiro Archers (http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/l5r/images/thumb/5/57/Tsuruchi_Bounty_Hunter.jpg/250px-Tsuruchi_Bounty_Hunter.jpg): The most fearsome soldiers to wield a bow in all the empire. Units of Ichiro Archers usually travel in small bands, however during wartime they mass themselves into units and crush their opponents. Any man to carry a bow in the Ichiro clan must follow the tenets of the Ichiro Archer. Every band calling themselves Ichiro Archers seek to prove their ability through adventure and battle and sometimes leave the clan to fight for others in noble wars. A master archer usually combines skill with the arcane to be truly deadly.
Ryudo Monks (http://l5r.alderac.com/archive/resources/l5r_de_dragon_1152.jpg): Monks devoted to the worship of Ookii Ryu. They wear no armor and bear a distinct dragon seal. They wield enormous influence in the Ichiro courts and often times, warriors will devote themselves to the cause but not join the order. The order monks themselves practice Ryudo (Way of the Dragon) which utilizes two swords in a fast moving, arching, and acrobatic art. The monks often travel alone but when summoned by the clan for service, serve as battlefield advisors and champions.
Leader: Ichiro Himura
One of the youngest Daimyo, Himura inherited the throne after his father was assassinated. The quest to discover who and why his father was killed has become a major drive for his life. Himura is said to be fearless in danger.
Champion: Miromoto Yoshimitsu (http://images.wikia.com/l5r/images/f/f7/Mirumoto_Uso.jpg)
Sorcerer: Master Roshi (http://empires.strategyplanet.gamespy.com/images/empires/sorcerer_concept_art_large.jpg)
One of the most respected Sorcerers in the empire, Roshi sits on the council of several prominent magical associations and is proficient in many arts.
Dramatis Personae