The Race Begins In the year 1169, following the Khan’s march on the capital, the Great Clans looked to the throne and wondered who should sit on it.
Soul of Bushido Without Bushido, a bushi is nothing more than a fool with a sword.
Razor of the Dawn Castle “It sits at the wall’s end, guarding all that stands beyond it. It has never fallen, and never shall.” –Kaiu Sadao
The Seventh Tower “The original seventh tower became Tainted. The Crab destroyed the wall around it, and built a new one.”
Mountain’s Shadow Dojo “The name was once given to the dojo of the harriers. Now it is rebuilt, and will bear the name until their honor is cleansed.”
Shizuka Toshi “The greatest political minds are trained here.”
Mountain Summit Temple “The Dragon find strength in the mountains. Rather than power, the Dragon seek focus and balance.”
Tetsu Kama Mura “Atop the mountains, Far from worldly concerns... only here can seek our inner truth.” –Togashi Wayan
Crossroad Fortress Once called Central castle, it sits in Tonfajutsen, in the center of the Lion lands. Countless thousands have been mobilized within its courtyards.
The Hall of Ancestors “Our ancestors guide our hands. Our victory is assured.”
Eastern Hub Port “The ruins of Otosan Uchi loom in the distance, but have little effect on trade.” –Yoritomo Saburo
Kyuden Ashinagabachi The home of the Tsuruchi family, once known as the Wasp Clan, is the greatest dojo for archery that has ever existed in Rokugan.
Kyuden Asako “Some call it Morning Glory Castle. Whatever it is called it is breathtaking.” –Isawa Takesi
The Agasha’s Foundries The Agasha constantly seek new forms of magic.
Deception’s Veil Dojo ”This is where lies are born.” –Bayushi Kurumi
Kyuden Wasuremono “One may choose to disregard the Scorpion, but they should never be forgotten. To do so is to risk disaster.”
The Ruined City ” Once, Otosan Uchi was the capital of an Empire…
The Spider’s Lair “Welcome, my friends. Welcome to our home.” –Daigotsu
The Temple of Death The Unicorn worship their gaijin gods of justice, the Lords of Death, within. Beware their judgment.
Hida Daizu “He is a consummate warrior, going wherever he is needed. Sometimes it seems that he is everywhere.” –Hida Benjiro
Hida Daizu “I have seen steel blades shatter on his armor. He will not say where it came from.” –Hiruma Aki
Hida Genichi “You survive because men like I allow it,” he snarled. “Mock me if you like, but remember that when I fail, you are next.”
Hida Hiyao “We die atop the Wall so that others might live. Whether they are worthy of his sacrifice is not our place to judge.”
Hida Kaoru “A Hida is vigilant and never hesitates. A Hida knows what must be done, and does it without question. I am Hida. I can not be defeated.”
Hida Sozen “Clans occasionally exchange hostages to ensure peace. Sozen once served the Dragon, but his heart is now a Crab’s.” –Mirumoto Mareshi
Hida Takuji “I will stand atop the Great Carpenter Wall and allow the red rage of Hida to wash over me. The Empire will endure as I stand in a sea of demon blood.”
Hiruma Aki “There are units so feared as the Crab berserker. They do not care if they live or die, only how many of their enemies they can kill.”
Hiruma Tama “The Hiruma scout the Shadowlands killing what enemies they can and warning the Crab of the rest.”
Kaiu Hisayuki “I do not need to know its name, Kuni,” Hisayuki said, scowling as he watched the oni heave itself over the Wall. “Only tell me how to kill it.”
Kaiu Jurobei “Who better to sit atop an empty throne than Hida Kisada, a man that was once a god?”
Kaiu Sadao “The Scorpion Clan attempted to murder lord Kisada, and they paid the price. Now the Crane seek to deny us the rice we need to protect them. They too shall learn.”
Asahina Beniha “War is simply politics in a less elegant setting. And the Crane excel at politics.”
Daidoji Akagi “I will serve my clan with honor.”
Daidoji Eitoku “We are the defenders of the Crane. No one knows these lands like we do, and we make invaders suffer for their ignorance.”
Daidoji Nagiko “Her mother was a Kakita, and she had inherited that family’s flair for swift, deadly precision.”
Doji Ayano “Lady Doji, founder of the Crane and sister of the first Emperor, created the customs and practice of Rokugani society. It is only fitting for her clan to excel at social maneuvering.”
Doji Hakuseki “Samurai-san, this situation disturbs me. Perhaps you could answer some questions for me?”
Doji Jotaro “Your behaviour is a disgrace to you and your clan.”
Doji Koin “Keep your secrets if you wish. The Crane have no needs of them.”
Doji Sesshu “The Crane do not embrace war, but we do not forget that it is sometimes necessary. Remove your troops from this area, or I will be forced to take action.”
Kakita Hideo “Iaijutsu is the formal dueling system of Rokugan. Disputes that cannot otherwise be resolved are finalized with a duel. The victor is proved correct, and the loser shamed. The Crane excel at shaming their opponents.”
Kitsuki Ryushi “Freedom is found in the truth.”
Kitsuki Taiko “Lies and secrets mean nothing to the Kitsuki. They care only for the truth. They are brilliant light of justice that exposes the corrupt and the criminals among us.”
Mirumoto Chojiro “The Dragon are as calm as the mountains in winter, but like all men, they can be angered. It is not a pleasant sight.” –Matsu Yufu
Mirumoto Ichizo “The Mirumoto are as hardy as inscrutable as the mountains in which they live. The Dragon have a reputation for being mysterious, but the Mirumoto at least are practical warriors.”
Mirumoto Mareshi “The fate of two peoples is mine to protect.”
Mirumoto Taishuu “He has sacrificed much in serving the Dragon. If he should return, can we do else but welcome him?” –Mirumoto Kei
Tamori Konoye “Look beyond the world and see yourself within it and outside it.”
Togashi Ieshige “The mirror holds only truths.”
Togashi Jomei “We must all stand against the darkness.”
Togashi Kazuki “Together we are mightier than one hundred armies. Apart we are weaker than a single man.”
Togashi Masujiro “The Dragon are more than the mountains. We are where the mountain meets the sky.”
Togashi Miyoko “She has a gentle laugh, and the eyes of a child. Endanger the temple she protects, however, and you will experience a warrior’s wrath.” –Tamori Shaitung
Akodo Seiichi The Khan escaped our wrath once. When next he is within our grasp, there will be no escape.
Akodo Shunori “If the Matsu are the raging heart of the Lion, the Akodo are the mind. Intelligent, brave, and calm in the thick of battle. Give an Akodo twenty men, and he will lead them to victory on any battlefield.” –Doji Domotai
Akodo Terumoto “Yoshino is a general, a hero, and an inspiration. He has proven himself many times over in the fires of battle.”
Ikoma Akiyama The Ikoma are the keepers of the Ikoma Histories. Because of their efforts, no worthy ancestor will ever be forgotten.
Kitsu Katsuko She traverses the flow of the courts like an experienced courtier, and her eyes glow with the wisdom of the Spirit Realms.
Matsu Aoiko She no longer fears her father’s legacy, but forges her own.
Matsu Benika “I will prove worthy of the blade I carry.”
Matsu Bunka The Lion fight as one. Each samurai is as strong as his brother standing next to him. When they stand together, they are invincible.
Matsu Robun “Once, he was a mindless killing machine, a soldier fueled by rage. Now, he has become a disciplined man of honor. There is no doubt that his ancestors look upon him with pride.” –Akodo Setai
Matsu Takeko The Matsu are the largest and fiercest family in the Empire. Honor and Bushido burn brightly in their hearts, so brightly that they can see little except the failure of others.
Matsu Yufu No clan reveres their elders as much as the Lion, and no clan has elders with so much to teach as the Lion. Their sensei are among the most experienced samurai in all of Rokugan.
Moshi Amika The Moshi family are descended from the Phoenix. Before joining the Mantis, they were known as the Centipede Clan. A matriarchal family, their men who cannot speak to the kami often join the Yoritomo.
Moshi Euiko “She is a blend of the old ways and the new. She is the past and the future.” –Moshi Amika
Tsuruchi Kansuke The Mantis have declared themselves the Defenders of the People, and they enforce their claim.
Tsuruchi Kaya “No one would expect such a cranky old man to be so skilled a magistrate. It is a mistake no one gets to make twice.” –Kitsuki Sasuke
Tsuruchi Mitsuzuka “Stand down,” he told the shrieking bandit. “You do not need to lose your other eye.”
Tsuruchi Mochisa The Tsuruchi scour the mainland, hunting those who have escaped the Empire’s justice.
Tsuruchi Nobumoto “The master of Wasp Castle is not a man to cross.”
Yoritomo Eriko Imperial decree states that the Mantis hold sway over the seas. They enforce what laws they choose, and allow others to go quietly unnoticed.
Yoritomo Okitsugu Not all Mantis have forgotten the Phoenix.
Yoritomo Saburo “We live among the seas, surviving by our strength and cunning. We endure storms no other clan could survive. We are the Mantis, and we are free. I would die rather than live any other way.”
Yoritomo Tadame “What is the purpose of your forces in the Imperial City?” the Phoenix asked. Tadame smiled. “The same as yours, of course.”
Asako Meisuru She will not lift her hand against another, nor will she ignore suffering. During times of conflict, she walks among the injured, bringing the kami’s healing to them.
Isawa Eitoku “I would sooner vent my fury against a mountain.” –Takeko
Isawa Kyoko The Phoenix Clan has always been a clan of peace, but their pacifism has been tainted by hubris and corruption from within. Those days have passed now, and the Phoenix stand united as never before.
Isawa Oharu For all their Power, the Phoenix believe in peace over war.
Isawa Takesi The Isawa family is the largest and most powerful shugenja family in the Empire. They do not simply speak to the elements, they experience them and walk among them. The Isawa are power incarnate.
Isawa Umeko “Her gifts are considerable. Were it not for her tempestuous nature, she could be my greatest student. Sometimes the kami’s gifts are also burdens.” –Tamori Nakamuro
Shiba Arihiro “Stay close to me, my lord. They shall not touch you.”
Shiba Fugimori “So long as one Phoenix draws breath, man’s ambition will not destroy another Imperial City.”
Shiba Ikku “The role of the Shiba is to protect the Phoenix. Our shugenja brothers depend upon us to safeguard their temples, and their purity.”
Shiba Miiko “I am samurai, yet I believe in peace. I go to war if I must, and those I slay die only so that more may live. This burden I gladly accept for the Phoenix, and for the Empire.”
Bayushi Eisaku “The Scorpion conceal their faces and their natures, with masks. One can never know what secrets they know, or what truths they conceal.”
Bayushi Hisato The Scorpion fear failure more than death.
Bayushi Hisoka “It does not matter who sits on the throne. Above all else, the Empire must be protected. If the Scorpion should benefit, so much the better.”
Bayushi Iyona The Scorpion’s might is not limited to the courts. Their enmity can be most deadly.
Bayushi Kurumi “Let us speak of the Crab’s transgressions.”
Bayushi Muhito “How can such a gentle, caring soul be so merciless? He is a riddle that cannot be solved.” –Kakita Korihime
Bayushi Nomen “Of course you do not wish your enemies to gain the throne. I believe I can offer an alternative.”
Bayushi Saya “The rise and fall of a courtier’s name is all but a game.”
Bayushi Tsimaru Despite a shortage of rice in their lands, the Scorpion defy the Crab in battle and in court.
Shosuro Adeiko She never fails to bring criminals to justice.
Shosuro Uyeda “He can make your slight mistake your fatal flaw. watch your step around him.” –Doji Koin
Yogo Rieko The Kuroiban defend the Empire from rogue blood sorcerers. Few even know the organization exists.
Chuda Hiroe “Seducing the mind is far more difficult than seducing the body. When a man surrenders his mind, you can transform him into an instrument of your will.”
Chuda Kyuwa “If you see us, then you have already failed. Your life has ended, and your service to the Spider has begun.”
Chuda Rintaro “We hide among the clans, and use their sins against them. Can they defeat themselves?”
Daigotsu Gyoken Those who became the Spider once stood for chaos and mindless violence. They have embraced a new path, a more dangerous one, and the threat they represent has increased a hundredfold.
Daigotsu Kaikou “Strength in honor? We have strength aplenty with no need for honor! Honor is a crutch for the weak.”
Daigotsu Masami Relentless. Undying. Spider.
Daigotsu Meguro “Let them dare call us blasphemers.”
Katsu “He placed my heart within the box…”
Michio “The Empire has need of order. We can provide the order they require, and they will not understand the price that must be paid until it is far too late.”
Muketsu “Hold fast to your beliefs. It will change nothing, but it may comfort you.”
Roshungi “What could Kokujin have accomplished if he had not been insane? I will not make the same mistakes.”
Iuchi Umeka “She is truly a child of the wind.” –Iuchi Lixue
Moto Akikazu “I serve the Lords of Death, and they aid me in carrying out their will.”
Moto Suren “She lost one of her sisters to the Lion during the recent conflict between their clans. She longs for vengeance, and thus the cycle repeats itself.” –Miya Shoin
Moto Taban The Moto came to Rokugan two generations ago, riding at the side of Lady Shinjo herself. They were placed in command of the Unicorn Clan by her word, and their rule has been one of ambition and war.
Shinjo Kadonomaro The Khan’s defenders brace themselves, for the Lion will come.
Shinjo Meikoku “The Unicorn are swift as the wind, and our ferocity in battle is known to all. But it is not enough - when armies clash, it is the cunning general who carries the day.”
Shinjo Xushen “Arrows are only dangerous when they hit.”
Utaku Genshi “For the glory of the Unicorn!”
Utaku Kohana The Unicorn have three great armies. The Junghar defend their lands, the Khol attack their enemies, and the Baraunghar lend magical support to the others.
Utaku Tama “Let the Lion seethe. Should they work up the courage to attack us, we will be ready.”
Utaku Tayoi “I believe in picking my battles. Otherwise, I might find myself in a boring one.”
Kobushi “Stay on your side of the wall, human, or pay the consequences.”
Omoni “I will recover the Tao of Fu Leng at any cost, my lord.”
Pekkle no Oni “What a lovely child!”
Pokku “He and his kind were nearly wiped out by Omoni’s larger, more aggressive breed of goblin. Now, however, it is cunning I require, and goblins have that in abundance.” –Daigotsu
Skub “It cares for nothing but slaughter and feeding.” –Omoni
Wareta no Oni “We will never reach the Wall by sundown.” Omoni only chuckled. “Are you certain?”
Kiyomi Her birth and simple wisdom strike deep into the heart of the court. She may lack a mon, but she has gathered influence in many courts of the land.
Kodomo The daughter of two ronin, she has struggled to gain recognition from the Great Clans all her life. Despite her youth, she has proven her skills as a tracker. They call her “Child” as an insult, but she bears the name with pride.
Obsidian Dragon It is the last remnant of Lord Onnotangu, the fallen Lord Moon.
Akodo’s Grave All clans revere the memories of their ancestors but none more so than the Lion. Their devotion is above question, and their ancestors guide their hands as no others can claim.
Castle Walls “It is rare to find a home that is not also a fortress. Samurai are paranoid lot.” -Daigotsu
Copper Mine “The Lion Clan’s lands do not boast great wealth, but the peasants are adept at making use of what they have.” –Miya Shoin
Corrupt Officials “You didn’t hear about the tax increase? Pity.”
Family Library Only a fool fails to learn the lessons of history.
Forest Killer Cavern The Forest Killers are gone, but their memory haunts many.
Fortified Camp “Send for replacements immediately.”
Geisha House “Why, in every play, is there a Scorpion villain?” Takesi asked. “Because it is a villain’s duty to make the story interesting,” replied Kurumi.
Gold Mine “How ironic that such treasures lie buried in the land of the clan that values wealth the least.” –Doji Tanitsu
House of the Fallen Blossom A most pleasant place to seek diversion.
Iron Mine “The mujina are trickster spirits that plague the Crab lands. The Kuni family has learned how to enslave them and force them to work in the mines. A typical Crab response to a simple problem.” –Doji Koin
Kabuki Theater Troupe “The Toturi Dynasty was noble, and far too brief. They shall be remembered always in the tales and plays of history. We honor their memory, that a new generation might learn from their valor.” –Doji Ayano
Kitsune Den Even in an Empire of war, there are hidden wonders.
Kobune Port “If you intended to trade in a Mantis port, it would be quicker to just hand them your koku.” –Bayushi Nomen
Lesser Shrine Even the humblest shrine is defended by a countless number of spirits.
Marketplace “The Crane are strongest when they stand with their allies. How strong will they be, I wonder, when they stand alone?” –Bayushi Paneki
Private Trader “There are a surprising number of individuals in the Empire who are willing to sell their honor for a handful of metal coins.” –Tsuruchi Kaya
Rich Coffers In theory a samurai does not concern himself with commerce. In reality, however, the clans can hardly afford to allow peasants to oversee the rice that will feed the clan during winter.
Seat of Power Even with an empty throne, the Imperial City holds power.
Secluded Village There are places that war never touches.
Secluded Waystation Even in the most remote areas, magistrates work to ensure that the Emperor’s laws are obeyed.
Shinomen Marsh There are things hidden within the great Shinomen Forest that no one dare use, save for the Spider Clan.
Shrine to Bishamon The Fortune of Strength blesses those worthy of his attention.
Shrine to Fukurokujin He grants blessings to those canny enough to see them.
Silver Mine “Strength, purity; these are one and the same.” –Isawa Ochiai
Stables “Ride swiftly, ride hard, and let the earth tremble at the arrival of those who serve the Khan.” –Moto Chen
Supply Outpost Wise commanders conceal resources through the land, so that they can keep their scouts well supplied.
Supply Smugglers Smuggling is in violation of the Emperor’s law. Few tolerate such filth, but those few who do pay well enough to ensure some small number of smugglers remain in operation.
Temples of Gisei Toshi An ancient Phoenix city, hidden from the eyes of outsiders.
Temple of the Seekers What you seek is within, whatever it may be.
Temple to Shinsei “His was the one true path to enlightenment.”
Venerable Master “The second form strikes the center.”
Yobanjin Fortress The Yobanjin fled the Kami’s rule at the Empire’s formation.
A New Wall “The wall is not made of stone, but the courage of Crab samurai,” Kuon said.
Call of Thunder Isawa Ochiai has a mastery of fire unmatched in recent generations. Even the celestial dragons consider her worthy of their attentions.
Commanding Favor A legion of soldiers. The embarrasment of a rival. A brilliant marriage. With the right friends in court, all things are possible.
Enlistment The lords of the Empire gather weapons and men, preparing for the conflicts they see on the horizon.
Glory of the Shogun The Shogun is dead, but many of his officers are ready to bring glory to his memory.
I am Ready There are wars that are never spoken of, and that appear in no history texts. Those who wage then must be ready to sacrifice everything for nothing.
In Time of War “War is the way of the samurai, yet it causes the Empire to suffer. Without an Emperor, how can this riddle be resolved?” –Otomo Hoketuhime
Proposal of Peace After the great battle at Toshi Rambo, the clans settled back into a blood-soaked uneasy peace, and all watched for signs that someone else was ready to break it.
Severed from the Emperor Foreigners are seldom welcomed in the Empire.
Silence the Future “The Shinomen forest is vast and lightly populated. Those few Unicorn patrols who stumble across our city are easily deal with.” –Daigotsu.
Test of the Emerald Champion To be chosen to compete is a great honor.
Test of the Jade Champion It requires wisdom, even more than power.
The Shogun’s Peace “Kaneka swore to protect his brother’s Empire, and he kept his oath until his death. Who could replace him?” –Horiuchi Rikako Winter Storm “More dangerous than the Moto’s Charge” –Old proverb
Winter Warfare Chagatai’s winter campaign overturned a thousand years of tradition. After the Winter of Red Snow, no season is safe for war.
Wisdom Gained “Remember. Think. Feel. Act. Simple things upon which the fate of the Empire turns.” –Mirumoto Masae
Wisdom of the Keepers “In the end, fate gives all duties. Sekawa will care for Shinsei’s heir. We will care for the people of the Empire. And the Empire will relearn its place on the Celestial Order.” –Doji Jun’ai
Yobanjin Alliance “They are crude, inelegant, smelly… and completely trustworthy. When the Empire falls to war, any ally is a valued ally.” –Kakita Munemori
Beiden Pass Since its destruction the Pass has been abandoned. Now it has a new purpose.
City of the Rich Frog To the West the Unicorn rebuild. To the East the Lion sharpen their swords and wait
Farmlands The rice crop is the standard of money in the Empire, the daily meal of the samurai, the origin of sake, and the foundation of the Crane’s Clan vast wealth.
Ruins of Otosan Uchi The Imperial Families mourn. The Yotsu struggle to maintain order in it. And slowly a new group prepares to make it a home.
Seikitsu Mountains The mountain range called “The Spine of the World” splits the Empire in half, and it only has a pass large enough for an army. Generals on both sides of Seikitsu Pass look at their maps and think.
Sorrow’s Path “The Empire was founded by the children of heaven, and there can be no worse fate than be exiled from it.” –Asahina Beniha
Three Man Alliance Plain It is the place where three minor clans stood united, and the beginning of many new things.
Togashi’s Shrine ”Togashi was a child of heaven, a guardian of the Empire, and a mystery to all” –Tamori Nakamuro
Utaku Meadows Many villages dot the plain, but no map shows them. Formed of tents and people they moved as season and need requires.
A Test of Courage “It will take more than that to kill me, fool!”
Ancestral Ground “Push onward, and we will crush the enemy’s morale!”
Arrival of the Emerald Champion The Emerald Champion speaks with the Emperor’s authority.
Arrival of the Obsidian Champion The Obsidian Champion is only spoken of in whispers.
Arrows from the Woods Striking from concealment is not considered an honorable practice, but then war makes dishonor more acceptable.
Banish All Shadows “Let light shine, and burn away all falsehoods!”
Battlefield of Shallow Graves “How many men fell in the Khan’s march?” –Ikoma Otemi
Block Supply Lines “War is a difficult practice. So many men moving around, with so much equipment. To feed an army requires a second army of peasants and merchants. Stop the second army, and the first one starve.”
Border Skirmish A small battle can herald the coming of a long war.
Brash Hero “With this blade,” he whispered, “I will have my vengeance.”
Brilliant Victory “Victory has a way of making others forget the means by which one achieved it.” –Iuchi Eiji
Burn it Down Few remain, but they are fierce indeed.
Cleansing Spirit “Rest easy, my friend. Let the spirits ease your pain.”
Combined Efforts “They cannot stand against both our armies.”
Compassion A samurai must temper his violence with mercy for his enemies.
Control “Guide your pawns to the destiny you have constructed.” –Yogo Baisetsu
Control the Field “Fight your enemy only on your own terms.” –Sun Tao
Cornering Maneuver Even the strangest enemy can be disabled by superior tactics.
Countermove A battlefield is like a game of go; each move is a challenge met by the enemy.
Courage A samurai must not falter in the face of adversity.
Courtesy A samurai is a civilized warrior.
Determination “You cannot stop me. Nothing can.” –Matsu Turi
Duty The samurai serves his lord without fail.
Eager to Fight “This is what I was born for!” –Daidoji Eitoku
Encircled Terrain “You would have me at a disadvantage, if only I feared death.”
Explored Territory “We have maps of this valley and they do not. That is the only advantage we need.” –Akodo Shigetoshi
Extended Maneuvers The life of a soldier can take him away from home for years at a time.
False Alliance “It is not a betrayal. I was never your ally.”
First and Final Strike “One strike is all I need.” –Kakita Hideo
Forest Cleansing “We will never abandon our duty to the Naga, but patrolling the Shinomen for bandits is an endless drain on our resources.” –Shinjo Tujuro
Forewarning Togashi Satsu cannot change the future, but he can ensure the Dragon are prepared to face it.
Frenzy When bloodlust takes a man, he’s as much a danger to his comrades as he is to his enemies.
Fury of the Dark Lord No one has witnessed it and survived.
Greater Sacrifice I will die, but my brothers will reach the Wall before you! I buy their lives with my blood!
Hired Killer “There are times when unpleasant duties must be performed, and disposable assets make matters far simpler.” –Bayushi Nomen
Honesty The samurai’s soul has no room for lies.
Honor The samurai’s only measure of worth is his honor.
Immobile Stance Be one with the earth you fight on.
Imperial Summons No matter how important the task at hand, no matter his rank, when a samurai receives an Imperial summons, he has no choice but to attend.
Impromptu Duel “I am here. You are here. What else do we require?”
Inner Fire Despite obstacles, there are times when a man’s will is so strong that nothing can overcome it. Victory is his only outcome.
Insight “Truth is a weapon. Lies are a poison.” –Kokujin
Knife in the Darkness In an empire of warriors, assassins are loathed as cowards, not killers.
Knowledge “The only true source of power.” –Kinuye
Lies, Lies, Lies... Truth is not the only weapon.
Master of the Rolling River “Weapons of steel can only kill. Master yourself, and you can defeat an enemy while sparing his life.” –Asako Yuya
Misderection Expose the smaller lie.
Mountains of the Phoenix The mountains hide their secrets well.
Never Stand Alone You should have killed me. Now the chance is lost.
No Hiding Place The arrow was the only sign he had been there.
Outer Walls “Close the gates, quickly! they will find this fortress a difficult target to overcome!”
Palm Strike “You must be cautious with your stance. No matter how powerful your technique, if you are open to attack you are weak. Let me show you.” –A Brother of Shinsei
Peasant Vengeance Samurai are not always the kindest of masters, and peasants are not always willing to endure in silence.
Perfection “It matters not what you do. It matters only how it is done. That which is flawless cannot be wrong.” –Daigotsu Rekai
Political Interference The court may be a less violent battlefield, but it is no less deadly.
Rapid Deployment “Reinforce the right flank!”
Raze to the Ground “If we cannot use it, make sure no one else can!”
Resumed Hostilities Minor differences can be made to escalate.
Retribution “You will pay for what you have done. I swear it!”
Righteous Fury “You dare flout the Emperor’s laws? I will show you the penalty for treason!”
Rout “Defeat is simply an opportunity for others to underestimate your strength. Bide your time, and when your enemy believes you are no longer a threat, prove him a fool.” –Bayushi Hisato
Shout of Challenge “Face me! Face me and die!”
Shout of Defiance “Did you think I would not find you? Did you think I would forget your insult? I am Crab!”
Shuten Doji’s Fury Fear. Desire. Regret. These are the three great sins.
Sincerity The samurai acts with conviction, casting aside doubt.
Sneak Attack “Quickly and quietly. Leave no one alive.” –Daigotsu Meguro
Spearhead “Only a fool exposes his forces too soon. Draw out your enemy, and use his weakness against him.” –Matsu Yofu
Stay Your Blade “This is not the time for destructive self-indulgence!” the courtier shouted. “The Empire needs samurai, not brutish thugs!”
Strength “Take that which you desire. Only the strongest are fit.” –Yasuki Nokatsu
Strike of the Dragon The Togashi Monks of the Dragon Clan posses powers born of the mystical blood tattooed into their flesh.
Superior Strategist No enemy was ever overcome by repeating the same strategy.
Tactical Maneuvers “Victory comes out not from defeating an army. It comes from defeating an army’s commander.” –Akodo’s Leadership
The Arrow Knows the Way A true archer does not aim. He only gives the arrow freedom.
The Bitter Shadow of Shame “All clans have shame they would just as soon forget. It is unfortunate that they are so rarely allowed to do so.” –Bayushi Paneki
The Crab’s Strength “Our strength is duty. We will never fail.”
The Crane’s Strength “Our strength is precision. Our hand never falters.”
The Dragon’s Strength “Our strength is wisdom. We know the path.”
The Mantis’s Strength “Our strength is versatility. We will always overcome.”
The Phoenix’s Strength “Our strength is knowledge. The answer is always there.” The Scorpion’s Strength “Our strength is loyalty. Our cause is true.”
The Spider’s Strength “Our strength is fear. It destroys the weak.”
The Unicorn’s Strength “Our strength is speed. We are forever free.”
Three-Stone River Sometimes, the spirits of the dead cross into this realm, and relive the circumstances of their death. Fortunately for the living, such things are rare.
Tides of Battle None dared attack the city while the Phoenix remained.
Unfamiliar Ground “No army has claimed as many lives as ignorance.” –Akodo’s Leadership
Unfortunate Incident “I just heard. A tragedy, I’m sure.” –Bayushi Nomen
Unwavering Assault “The Lion live for battle. To give them an excuse to go to war is, in some small way, to earn their gratitude.” –Kitsuki Taiko
Warrior Challenge “Stand down! I will face this coward on my own!”
We Stand Ready To die or kill for his lord, that is a samurai’s desire.
Wedge “Be like unto the sea, which washes over all without thought or hesitation.” –Akodo Leadership
Well Prepared With an empty throne stoking ambition, the clans prepare for what may be an inevitable war for control of the Empire.
Will “If your will is strong, death can be defeated.” -Moto Tsume
Wounded in Battle “The arrows fell like rain, darkening the sky itself. I hate fighting the Mantis.” –An unknown samurai
Wrath of Osano-Wo Shugenja are not the only ones who can call upon the Fortunes for their aid. The normally peaceful Brotherhood of Shinsei has considerable power when their hand is forced.
Arrow of Purity Honor and spirit are greater than mere steel and bone.
Castle of Water There is fortitude in Water as certainly as in Earth.
Companion Spirit When the spirits hear your call...
Consumed by Five Fires “Be thankful the Phoenix are a peaceful people, for their wrath is horrible indeed.” -Matsu Yufu
Earth Becomes Sky “How can you fight against the elements themselves? You cannot.” –Isawa Emori
Essence of Water “There are other ways to control the battlefield. Do not mistake military power for the greatest power.” –Asako Bairei
Flight of Doves Peace is more than an absence of war.
Perfect Attunement With the elements properly aligned, much can be accomplished.
Purge the Weak “They do not know real power.” –Kinuye
Strength of the Forge The Tsi employ more than hammers and anvils.
The Fires That Cleanse The Phoenix have no wish to kill, but are more than able if needed.
The Kami’s Blessing Who can stand against the will of the kami?
Touch of Death “Blood is strength. Strength is power. Power is victory.” -Kinuye
Walking the Way The path of righteousness is not an easy one, but for some, it is the only one.
Blade of Hubris “You will not master me,” Jotaro said. “I may be cursed with you, but I am my own master.”
Ceremonial Armor Every ceremony has its purpose.
Daruma What good is a wall when there are enemies on both sides?
Fan of Command A wise general can overcome any weakness. A foolish general can waste any strength.
Menhari-gata “Victory does not always go to the strongest of two opponents.” –Tangen’s Lies
Shinjo Horsebow The Unicorn can strike without warning. If they catch their prey unaware, their victory is inevitable.
Chuda Hankyu Snake or Spider, still venomous.
Rosoku’s Staff His guidance is lost, but his legacy remains.
Sword of Victory It cannot be drawn and know defeat.
Tsi Blade The Tsi family, lords of the Oriole Clan, are among the greatest smiths in the Empire. A gift of a Tsi blade is a great honor.
Writ of Restriction “The subtle art of politics has thwarted the blade of many brilliant warriors.” –Bayushi Kurumi
Ashigaru Spearmen Ashigaru form the backbone of any army.
Berserkers “Diplomacy? Bah. Place me on the battlefield, and I will show you my answer!”
Brothers in Arms “Hello, my friend! My colleagues and I have a few brief questions, if you do not mind terribly!”
Brothers in Arms “Our brotherhood will never die. A pity you will.”
Corrupt Adjunct “I have heard of your difficulties,” the Spider smiled. “I believe I can help you, if you are willing to listen.”
Daidoji Gunso The Daidoji family are called the Iron Crane, for they are the shield that protects the Crane Clan from its enemies.
Goblin Chuckers “Small, inaccurate, but numerous. A single chucker is no great threat... but they are rarely found alone.” -Hida Hiyao
Heavy Infantry With the Shogun’s death, the Imperial Legions are leaderless once more. Any man eyeing the throne must take their strength into consideration before making any untoward moves.
Kobune Scout Some Mantis scouts are skilled at... procurement.
Light Infantry Lightly armed soldiers, placed to take advantage of weakness of the enemy army, can turn the course of battle. A unit of light infantry gives the general the precious resource of maneuverability.
Lion’s Pride The Lion’s Pride is the most prestigious unit within the Lion Clan. Formed only by the strongest Lion samurai-ko, the Lion’s Pride form the swift arm of any Lion army. They charge into hopeless situations without fear, and they succeed where any other unit would fail.
Mantis Detachment The Mantis have troops stationed in the capital to assist the Unicorn, should they require it.
Morale Officer “Glory is achieved through action. Let us show our ancestors we are honored to bear their names! Charge!”
Ogre Warriors “One of us serves Daigotsu? Who would choose to follow a human?”
Tactical Advisors “The enemy forces are ill-prepared for a flanking maneuver, my lord.”
Traveling Ronin In times of war, work is easy to find.
Wandering Scout Despite the risk of war and death, many young samurai long to serve their clan as scouts. The freedom to travel and see the Empire’s beauty is simply too enticing.
Wretched Mercenary Some men will commit any atrocity for a price.