Vassal Families & Extra Clan Schools
By: Various Authors
Within each clan are a number of vassal families as
well as extra schools that are followed by the major
families.
Each vassal family serves a particular great family.
These families have long histories of service to their
liege family. This is how some ronin are inducted into
a clan, rather than being adopted into a major family.
These families also have schools, though less powerful
or versatile than those of the great families.
Characters from vassal families are forbidden from
taking ancestors from other than their liege family and
such ancestors cost one extra point. For such characters
it takes an extra two points of glory to go up a glory
rank.
The extra greater family schools are alternate schools
that are allowable to anyone of the greater families.
All of the vassal schools presented here are of the
three technique/rank variety, while some of the extra
greater family ones are of the 5 technique/rank variety.
The second and third rank techniques of the vassal
family schools may be slightly more powerful than
those of five rank schools (just as the existing Wasp
school's 2nd and 3rd rank techniques are quite strong).
In all instances the reference to school rank in a
technique should be read as "number of techniques
learned in this school" by characters who have taken
the Multiple School advantage. A character who had
two ranks as a Hida bushi and takes Multiple Schools
to join the Wasps, gaining two more ranks is a 4th
Rank Bushi. However he does not gain four free raises
or shoot four times per round. He has two Wasp
techniques and receives two raises and shoots twice.
To join one of these schools the character must make
a character from that clan, or take the different school
advantage. Characters from one of the main families of
the clan may be schooled by a vassal school at no cost
and visa versa. Clan ronin may be created receiving
their initial skills and one technique from a minor
school. True ronin wishing to learn a minor school's
technique must take the Different School advantage,
the Sensei advantage (min. 3 points), and pay for the
school's skills and bonus trait out of their own CPs.
Both types of ronin may only advance in the school
through especially good role-playing (in addition to the
insight requirements). In all instances these schools are
small and have relatively few members. The one-
character-from-this-school-per-party restriction applies
(as with the Kuni witch hunters).
Multiple styles within the Existing schools
Within each of the warrior schools of the Great Clans
there exists multiples styles, handed down within the
the dojos of the school. Great warriors and sensei
occasionaly develope new techniques, secret methods,
and other innovations that result in new styles. One
feature that gives a uniformity to the school is that the
rank 1 technique always remains the same.
Changing Styles
While characters rarely change schools, it is much
more common for a character to change styles within
his school. Death of a sensei, changing of lords, or
finding that one's temperment is simply not suited to a
style's teachings may all result in a character changing
styles. This should be treated as a two experience point
advantage; Multiple Styles (school name). Characters
who change styles still receive only one technique per
school rank, but do not have to repeat techniques they
already know.
Rank and Title
One of the greatest moment's in a bushi's life is the
awarding of his "certificate" by his sensei. A bushi's
certificate is a scroll formally states that the bushi has
mastered the esentials of his choosen style, and may
refer to himself a bushi or swordsman of his school.
The school cirtificate is earned when the character has
learned the school's first technique and the skills
associated with that style. This often happens before a
PC enters play, and is ussually around the time of the
bushi's gempuku ceremony. To a typical Hida bushi for
example this would confer the title "Mountain of Iron
Swordsman" or "Student of Mountain of Iron Style
Swordsmanship".
To be awarded a certificate of mastery, the bushi
must have learned at least four techniques and have a 4
or greater in all the skills taught by her style. This
confers the title "kengo" or master fencer. This is
generally the minimum level of acoplishment require
to be placed as the head of a dojo. This is roughly
analogous to a black belt in our own world. The
character is seen as suficiently skilled to teach and to
represent the school in important functions, but does
not have a voice in the policies of the school, nor
access to all the secrets handed down within the dojo.
This title is sepperate from that of sensei, for while the
character is theoretically qualified to teach, she may
not actually be doing so.
Kengo who are given teaching duties have additional
titles that describe their possition. A "shisho" is the
head of an entire ryu or style. He may head one or
more dojos. A "shihan" is the head of a single dojo, or
most senior instructor where a shisho is present.
"Kyoshi" are fourth rank bushi who give instruction at
the direction of a shihan. There may be several kyoshi
in a single dojo.
The final honor a bushi may be granted is to be made
a master of their school (not just of a particular style).
Our typical Hida would become a "Master of the Hida
School" as well as being a kengo of his style. A bushi
in this possition is a respected leader of the school
whose influence goes well beyond just her own style
and dojo. A master helps determine the policies of the
school as a whole. This title can only be awarded by
the current masters of the school, or by the clan
champion. It has never been given to a bushi who has
not learned at least five techniques of the school. A
five in all of the style's skills is also typical.
The Benefits of Rank 5
If a character has achieved Rank 5 in a School, and
having learned all the techniques of a Style, at each 25
points of insight there after choose to learn any one
technique of a different style of his school. He is not
required to learn them in any particular order, but
instead may pick and choose how his knowledge of the
school grows.
Bushi Schools
Terms
Bushi: A warrior. One who studies the arts of war
broadly.
Kenshi: A “swordsman”. Another type of warrior, but
one who specializes in the sword.
Kenshinzo: “Swordmaster”. In Rokugan, the duelists
of the Kakita Academy.
Sagasu: A hunter.
Yojimbo: A bodyguard. A warrior who specializes in
defending another.
Berserkers, Scouts, Bounty Hunters, & Battlemaidens
are also considered “Bushi”
A Way of Bushi
By: Devon E. Sanders
Benefit: GM's discretion or none
Beginning Honor: GM's discretion based on concept,
family, etc.
Skills: To be worked out between GM and character,
but Survival Guides templates provide suggested skills
for various professions. However at least 4 should be
bugei, and samurai should have kenjutsu and archery.
Techniques
Rank 1:
The young student begins learning the intricacies of
the skills. However, this study is only the
understanding of technique, the beginning of
understanding the Do, or Way. At this rank and each
rank hereafter the samurai may study one of the
school's seven skills, keeping an extra die when using
that skill. The same skill may be chosen up to three
times (keeping multiple dice). Only bugei or related
skills (i.e. horsemanship) can be taken more than once.
Rank 2:
At this rank the student begins to show the simplicity
of effort that comes with mastery of the forms. He
receives a free raise when using any skill studied with
the rank one technique. Only one free raise is granted
by this technique even if the character has studied the
skill more than once.
Rank 3:
At this rank the student begins to see the freedom of
the Way and not the limits of forms. When using any
skill the character has studied with the rank one
technique, the character is not limited to his Void Ring
when deciding how many raises to make.
Rank 4:
At this rank the Way fills the student's every effort.
When using any skill studied twice with the rank one
technique, the character may make two attacks per
turn.
Rank 5:
While others may see the student as a master, at this
rank he has learned that he will never know more than
the smallest part of the Way. Even so, the student may
spend any number of his void points when using a skill
he has studied twice with the rank one technique.
Furthermore, when using such a skill in a non-combat
situation, a student may automatically succeed. This
does not apply to opposed rolls. He is entitled to any
free raises, but must roll if he wishes to make any other
raises.
Your Outfit is based on concept station and clan.
Again a rank 5 student of the way who has selected
iaijutsu three times and kenjutsu (Kolat bodyguard or
Mikio perhaps) would be a excellent with katana in
combat and an iaijutsu duel but limited to using his
natural abilities (which could be enough) sans katana
(excellent enough to give a clan bushi who is use to
picking on techniquely disadvantaged ronin pause).
As I said before I think the system is a great way to
through a wrench in your players plans, and can make
for valuable non samurai retainers...whether craftsmen,
kolat, or nin......
Shugenja Schools
Terms
Shugenja: A holyman. One who may speak to the
spirits to produce magical effects.
Sodan-senzo: A spirit-medium. One who chanels the
spirits.
A Way of Magic and Prayer
(For shugenja)
By: Jason C Marshall
Benefit: GM's Discretion or none
Beginning Honor: GMs discretion based on concept,
family, etc.
Skills: To be worked out between GM and character,
but Survival Guides templates provide suggested skills
for various professions. However at least 4 should be
High, with Shintao and Meditation a must.
Spells
3 of primary element, 2 of secondary element, 1 of
tertiary element.
Other Schools
Terms
Butei: An actor. A type of artisan.
Ise Zumi: A tattooed man. An Order of monks within
the Dragon Clan.
Kodo: A drummer. A type of artisan.
Omoidoso: A bard. A type of artisan.
Tsukai-sagasau: A witch-hunter.
A Way of Peace
(For artisans, magistrates, hatamoto, craftsmen, etc.)
By: Devon E. Sanders
Benefit: GM's discretion or none
Beginning Honor: GM's discretion based on concept,
family, etc.
Skills: To be worked out between GM and character,
but Survival Guides templates provide suggested skills
for various professions. However, no more than 1 or 2
should be bugei.
Techniques
Rank 1:
The young student begins learning the intricacies of
the skills. However, this study is only the
understanding of technique, the beginning of
understanding the Do, or Way. At this rank and each
rank hereafter the samurai may study one of the
school's seven skills, keeping an extra die when using
that skill. The same skill may be chosen up to three
times (keeping multiple dice). No bugei skill may be
taken more than once.
Rank 2:
At this rank the student begins to show the simplicity
of effort that comes with mastery of the forms. He
receives a free raise whenever using any skill studied
with the rank one technique. Only one free raise is
granted by this technique even if the character has
studied the skill more than once.
Rank 3:
At this rank the student begins to see the freedom of
the Way and not the limits of forms. When using any
skill the character has studied with the rank one
technique, the character is not limited to his Void Ring
when deciding how many raises to make.
Rank 4:
At this rank the Way fills the student's every effort.
When using any skill studied twice with the rank one
technique, the student may spend any number of his
void points.
Rank 5:
While others may see the student as a master, at this
rank he has learned that he will never know more than
the smallest part of the Way. Even so, the student may
automatically succeed at the use of any skill he has
studied three times with the rank one technique. This
does not apply to opposed rolls. He is entitled to any
free raises, but must roll if he wishes to make any other
raises.
Your Outfit is based on concept station and clan.
For instance in my games, any NPC who would be a
kakita artisan, is in fact a samurai or samuraiko, who is
a patron and student of the arts. They get the outfit,
benefit and honor of artisans with skills as follows:
Courtier, Etiquette, Calligraphy, 1 high skill, any two
artisan (which should be suitable for a proper samurai),
and a skill of their choice (no low skills with a very
good background). By time he reaches rank four he
may possibly kept two dice, a free raise, and spend
unlimited void on poetry, and keep an extra die and
gain a free raise with courtier and etiquette (he's a
favorite of the court, and an imperial poetry tutor for
good reason) Not an overpowering character but one
who could add favor as an NPC or second PC
character.
I use the same system for ikoma bards and yasuki
merchants in addittion the techniques (or lack there of)
already given, to spice the schools. In my game Ikoma
Kaoka has studied history three times, and calligraphy
twice, which justifies his position as head of the Ikoma
libraries.
 CRAB
Sakazu Family (Kaiu
Vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
Sakazu stubbornness is well
known amongst the Crabs, but so is their fearlessness.
Sakazu characters do not get the Large advantage at
reduced cost, but the Death Trance advantage only
costs them two points.
Benefit: +1 Willpower
Sakazu (Crab Clan) Bushi School
Benefit: +1 Strength
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Archery, Athletics, Defense, Iaijutsu, Kenjutsu,
Shadowlands Lore or Hunting, and Weaponsmith
Techniques
Rank 1: The Way of the Blade
They say Sakazu bushi will practice with the sword
until their hands bleed. Then they will practice with a
slippery grip. The character may roll Kenjutsu +
Agility, keeping (Kenjutsu) dice when attacking with a
sword. Void points still add to the Agility trait when
using this technique (+1k0).
Rank 2: Armor of the Crab
The bushi learns to shrug off and ignore lesser blows
as mere scratches. Unless the bushi makes a full attack
he is considered to have a monster type armor rating
equal to his Weapon Skill + Earth.
Rank 3: Inner Fire
The raw determination of the Sakazu is now harnessed
with the need to triumph. If wounds have reduced the
bushi to Down or Out in the middle of a skirmish or
battle, he may spend all of his remaining void points
(minimum
of three) to temporarily gain back six times his Earth
Ring in wounds. At the end of the skirmish (or the end
of the next round of a battle) the bushi will have his
current wounds or the wounds he had before this
technique was used, whichever is worse.
Outfit
(All considered to be of average quality) Katana,
wakizashi, bow, 20 arrows of any type, light armor,
helm, travelling pack, kimono, any 3 weapons, 5 koku
Hira Family (Hida Vassals)
By: JCMarshall
The Crab aren't know for their politeness in court.
Indeed, there are few Crab clan courtiers within the
courts of Otosan-uchi and those of the other clans. The
Hira are a vassal of the powerful Hida family, and act
as courtiers for the Crab as a whole.
Benefit: +1 Intelligence
Hira (Crab Clan) Courtier School
Benefit: +1 Perception
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Courtier, Etiquette, Sincerity, Law, + 2 High and 1
High/Bugei Skill
Techniques
Rank 1: Truth can cut like the Sword
Blunt and to the point, a Hira Courtier often offsets
his opponents with the simple truth. The Hira first
learns how to use the truth to hear what he wants. The
opponent of the techniques must make a Contested
Willpower roll with the Hira Courtier in order not to be
caught off guard by the stark truth that has just been
said to him or her and blurt out something
incriminating in response.
Rank 2: The Light of Truth
When confronted by sarcasm, rumor, and lies, the
Hira Courtier merely continues to rely on the truth to
guide him through the situation. Such is the Hira
Courtier unswerving adherence to the truth that others
who are of like thinking begin to side with the Hira
Courtier. The various listeners make a Contested
Willpower roll and if it is failed, then they openly
voice their agreement, if they succeed, they whisper
their agreement amongst others.
Rank 3: Truth and Honor are one
Hira Courtiers have been known to die to prove the
truth of their claims. Indeed, it is said that if it comes
to such a circumstance, then the Hira must have been
telling the truth. In all cases where a Hira Courtier has
been killed or has committed seppeku because of his
unswerving belief in the truth, the opposing agent(s)
have been found guilty of something within 24 hours
and put to death.
The Hira Courtier has reached the point where he is
so confident in his belief that he is willing and able to
die to prove himself right. This tactic has the ability to
cause others to pledge themselves to his defence, as
they are now in total agreement with the Hira Courtier.
 The people who agree with the Hira must make a
Simple Willpower test at TN 20 not to walk out and
stand by the Hira Courtier in his belief, and also not to
defend him if a samurai challenges him to a duel.
This is a powerful technique as it can possibly lead to
several deaths, one of which is the courtiers. Only
when the circumstance warrants it, does a Hira
Courtier use this final technique.
On a side note is that when a 3 or more nobles back
up the claim of someone else, then it is considered to
be the truth. As such all it takes is for the Hira
Courtier to swing 3 nobles to his side in order to avoid
death.
Outfit
(All considered to be of average quality) 2 Kimonos,
travelling pack, steed, tanto, 4 koku,
Wadori Family (Yasuki Vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
The Yasuki have long needed strong backs in their
shops and caravans. The Wadori, once only peasants,
stepped forward. They have proven discrete and loyal,
becoming trusted servants. A Wadori never flinches,
serving the Yasuki in both legal and criminal
capacities.
Benefit: +1 Strength
Wadori (Crab Clan) Enforcer School
This school is best describe as a finishing school for
thugs and gangsters. Those Wadori who work with
more respectable Yasuki act as bodyguards and crew
bosses.
Benefit: +1 Strength
Beginning Honor: 1 + 1 box
Penalty: Must buy the Noble Birth advantage or be
part of the merchant class.
Skills
Commerce, Intimidation 2, Jujitsu, Lore (Streetwise),
pick one bugei skill and one low skill
Techniques
Rank 1: Look at Me
The character oozes menace. The enforcer may cause
one person who meets her gaze to face a fear check
with a fear rating equal to his Intimidation skill. Those
who fail are visibly shaken. This may be done a
number of times per day equal to her Intimidation +
Void. This does not require an action.
Rank 2: Friends in Low Places
The enforcer is connected to the flow of goods and
favours that takes place out of sight of the samurai
class. Use the first two levels of the Doji courtier
favour tables for ideas on what he can acquire, but give
everything a darker, seedier aspect (introduction to a
gambling den, a fine but stolen item, minor blackmail,
etc.). The character may call upon such favours once
per adventure, but will always be called upon to
scratch someone else’s back later.
Rank 3: Within an Inch of Your Life
Sometimes a sound beating is required when
communicating with others. The enforcer may make
two attacks per round so long as one of them is made
using jujitsu. He is also able to pull his attacks so that a
killing blow instead leaves a human target with exactly
one wound if he wishes.
Outfit
(One item of poor quality, one item of fine quality, the
rest are of average quality) Wakizashi (if samurai),
distinctive tattoo, kimono, pick one weapon, 3 koku.
The Kaiu
Kaiu (Crab Clan) Battlemaster School
By: Scott Gearin
Benefit: +1 Intelligence
Beginning Honor: 2, plus 1 box
Skills
Armorer, Battle, Engineering, Siege, Traps,
Weaponsmith, and pick one craft skill.
Techniques
Rank 1: Root of the Mountain
The young student begins at the mountain’s base,
learning the intricacies of the skills. However, this
study is only the understanding of technique, the
beginning of understanding the Do, or Way. At this
rank and each rank hereafter the samurai may study
one of the school’s seven skills, keeping an extra die
when using that skill. The same skill may be chosen up
to three times (keeping multiple dice).
Rank 2: Climbing the Cliffs
At this rank the student begins to show the simplicity
of effort that comes with mastery of the forms. He
receives a free raise when using any skill studied with
the rank one technique. Only one free raise is granted
by this technique even if the character has studied the
skill more than once.
Rank 3: The Shrouded Heights
At this rank the student begins to see the freedom of
the Way and not the limits of forms. When using any
skill the character has studied with the rank one
technique, the character is not limited to his Void Ring
when deciding how many raises to make.

Rank 4: Above the Clouds
At this rank the Way fills the student’s every effort.
When using any skill studied twice with the rank one
technique, the character may spend any number of his
void points.
Rank 5: At the Peak You See Another Mountain
While others may see the student as a master, at this
rank he has learned that he will never know more than
the smallest part of the Way. Even so, the battlemaster
may automatically succeed at the use of any skill he
has studied three times with the rank one technique.
This does not apply to opposed rolls. He is entitled to
any free raises, but must roll if he wishes to make any
other raises.
Outfit
Katana, wakizashi, heavy armor, kimono, surveying
tools, drawing paper and pens, scroll case
The Yasuki
The Yasuki have their hands into all kinds of illicit
activities. Some of them become gamblers, giving a
portion of the money they, eh, make to the family.
These masters of Gambling almost seem to have a
unnatural amount of luck whether at the table or the
court. Others become smugglers, using skills passed
down the generations to get past the magistrates of
hostile lands.
Yasuki (Crab Clan) Gambler School
By: Tony Reed
Benefit: +1 Awareness
Beginning Honor: 0 +5 boxes
(the Gambler doesn't lose honor for using his
Gambling skill until he reaches Honor rank of 2)
Skills
Forgery, Acting, Sincerity, Defense, Commerce,
Gambling 2.
Techniques
Rank 1: Knowing the Fortune's Price
The Gambler is a expert at figuring out statistics, and
can figure out the likely outcome. Whenever the
gambler needs to make a blind roll, he may spend a
void point to ask the GM the TN. If the Gambler
doesn't spend a void point to figure out the TN, he
gains a number of free void points to use for the roll
equal to his school rank. He may only get these free
void points a number of times a day equal to his
awareness.
Rank 2: Seeing past the face
The Gambler is a expert at seeing the subtle
expressions that give away cheating or lying. When
someone attempts to cheat or lie against the Yasuki
Gambler, he may not keep dice that roll below the
Gambler's awareness + school rank.
Rank 3: The Visage of the Void
The Gambler has learned how to maintain a
ultimate blank face. Whever someone attempts to
determine if the Gambler is cheating or lying the
Gambler may spend any number of void points on his
awareness, as long as he has them.
Rank 4: Raising the Stakes
The Gambler has learned how to frustrate his
enemy to break his focus. Whenever the Gambler
succeeds in a contested roll, he may cause his enemy to
gain a rank of impairment per 10 points the Gambler
beat the opponents score by. The opponent may not be
driven past the Down level of impairment. The
opponent doesn't gain the wounds for this, just the
impairment. If the opponent has a means of decreasing
the penality (Strength of the Earth) it is as if he did not
have that ability. This effect wears off after the
effected opponents next roll. This technique may be
used a number of times a day equal to the Gambler's
awareness.
Rank 5: Breath of Daikoku
The Yasuki Gambler "learns" how to become
more lucky (or cheat better). It seems whatever he
does, he is blessed by Daikoku. Whenever the
Gambler makes a roll involving dexterity , he may re-
roll any dice that rolls under his agility + school rank.
The Gambler may do this a number of times a day
equal to his school rank. If the Gambler is in a game
of chance, he may re-roll any dice that roll less than his
Awareness+Gambling.
Outfit
(All of average quality) Kimono, Katana, Wakizahi,
traveling pack, 10 Koku (Stake Money)
Yugi Family (Yasuki Vassals)
By: Tony Reed
The Yugi have their hands into all kinds of illicit
activities. Some of them become gamblers, giving a
portion of the money they, eh, make to the family.
These masters of gambling almost seem to have a
unnatural amount of luck whether at the table or the
court.
Benefit: +1 Perception
Yugi (Crab Clan) Smuggler School
Benefit: +1 Awareness
Beginning Honor: + 5 boxes
Skills
Forgery, Acting, Sincerity, Defense, Commerce,
Stealth, Kenjutsu
Rank 1: Wisdom of the neck hairs
The smuggler has become adept at detecting pursuits,
and if a area is being patrolled. Whenever the
smuggler makes a perception roll to detect pursuit or
whether an area is patrolled, he may add his school
rank to his perception roll.
Rank 2: Quicker than the law
The smuggler is just a bit faster than others. Before
iniatives are rolled in combat, the smuggler may make
a Awareness + Kenjutsu roll vs the highest perception
of his opponents x 5. If he is successful, he may make
a number of free, non-combat actions equal to his
school rank.
Rank 3: The Enemy behind your eyes
The Yasuki has become a master at sneaking his way
past authorities. Whenever a magistrate rolls to detect
the smuggler, the smuggler may spend a void point to
switch their rolls, but only if the smuggler's roll was
lower. This can be done a number of times a day equal
to school rank, but only once for each person.
Outfit
(All of average quality) Kimono, Katana, Wakizashi,
Wicker backpack, Sleeping roll, Travelling clothes,
traveling pony with storage racks, 8 Koku.
Hiruma School (Crab Clan)
With the Reclamation of the Hiruma Citadel in Honor
Bound, and the introduction of Hiruma Dojos in
Hidden Emperor, it seems likelly that the Hiruma
family have been training bushi again, possibly since
the Day of Thunder. For champaigns set before the
Battle of the Cresting Wave, after the Day of Thuder,
or in which the bushi school of the Hiruma faded but
never truely vanished, I present the Hiruma Bushi! (If
after the Battle of the Cresting Wave, this school
should probably have the one-per-party restriction.
Treat Hiruma Yoshi and "Silence" as Rank 4 and
Hiruma Zunguri as the sensei of the school at Rank 5.)
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 2, plus 5 boxes
Skills
Archery, Athletics, Defense, History (Crab), Kenjutsu,
Jiujutsu, and Tetsubo
Rank 1: The Crushing Blow
The enemies of the Hiruma are large, tough, and
heavily armored. Only the most telling blows are likely
to have any effect, so the Hiruma learns not to waste
time with anything less. The Hiruma adds his School
Rank + 1 to each die kept for Damage. This bonus is
applied before damage dice are reduced by Monster
Armor.
Rank 2: Dance of the Crab
The Hiruma fight a cunning, cautious battle filled with
feints and dodges. When the Hiruma bushi declares
Full Defense, he keeps a number of dice equal to his
School Rank on the Defense Roll.
Rank 3: Hammer the Anvil
The bushi is now able to make two Attacks per round.
Rank 4: One Life, One Action
The Hiruma bushi is taught to focus completely on the
task at hand, drawing forth his own excellence. The
bushi may spend a void point before rolling to keep
three extra dice on any Skill Roll using the seven skills
taught by the school. He may not spend additional void
points on this roll to increase the Trait.
Rank 5: Master of the Gate
In the defense of the Empire, the Hiruma must learn to
weather the harshest of blows. A master of the Hiruma
School has been toughened to such an extent that all
damage rolls against him keep one less die.
Outfit
Basic Bushi Outfit
Ancestor: Kaiu Yodin
4 points
Characters descended of Kaiu Yodin are considered to
have studied the Siege skill once as described in the
rank one battlemaster technique. The character does
not have to be a student of the school to gain this
benefit. If he is, he starts with two skills studied: Siege
and one of the player’s choice.
 CRANE Royama Family (Kakita Vassals)
By: JCMarshall
Tsume Family (Doji
vassals) The Royama are descendants of the Yasuki who
By: Scott Gearin stayed with the Crane. Over the years they have
changed their name as to throw off the shame and
Perhaps the most aggressive of dishonor done to them by their former family
the Doji vassals, the Tsume are more noted as warriors members.
than poets. Benefit: +1 Perception
Benefit: +1 Agility
Royama (Crane Clan) Merchant School
Tsume (Crane Clan) Bushi School Benefit: +1 Awareness
Benefit: +1 Reflexes Beginning Honor: 1 + 5 boxes
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Skills Etiquette, Sincerity, Commerce, Craft: Gambling,
Battle, Defense, Etiquette, Iaijutsu, Intimidation, Courtier, +2 High/Bugei/Merchant skills.
Kenjutsu, and pick one high skill Among the Royama, Commerce and other merchant
skills are not considered dishonorable.
Techniques
Rank 1: Talons of the Crane Techniques
The Tsume, like the Kakita, fight returning the sword Like the Yasuki of the Crab Clan, the Royama receive
to the sheath after every stroke, striking with blinding items at each rank. See Way of the Crab, pg. 53, for
speed. The bushi may substitute his iaijutsu skill for details of each ranks items.
kenjutsu when attacking with a katana. The bushi also
adds his reflexes to the total of his to-hit rolls. Rank 1 Items
As the Yasuki Rank 1 items.
Rank 2: Know Your Place!
The Tsume are masters of intimidation through Rank 2 Items
swordplay. They receive a number of free raises to As the Yasuki Rank 2 Items, plus 2 Yasuki Rank 3
called shots that do no damage (disarms, trimming items.
moustaches, cropping topknots) equal to their school
rank. Normal intimidation rolls should be suitably Rank 3 Items
modified after a successful maneuver (GMs As the Yasuki Rank 4 Items.
discretion).
Outfit
Rank 3: Strike Without Striking (All considered to be of average quality) Kimono,
The bushi is so swift in his motions that he can strike, katana, wakizashi, wicker backpack, sleeping roll,
return his blade to the sheath, and still has time to travelling pony with storage packs, 8 koku
dodge. The character can make a roll for a normal
attack (never full attack) but his TN to be hit this round Iwase Family (Daidoji Vassals)
is as if using full defense. The character may not By: Scott Gearin
combine this technique with any technique that gives The Iwase serve as the scouts and spearmen of the
two attacks in one round. Crane armies.
Benefit: +1 Perception
Your Outfit
(All items are of fine quality): Katana, Wakizashi, Iwase (Crane Clan) Scout School
Travelling Pack, 3 Kimonos, 4 Koku. May choose light These spearmen of the Crane have a great rivalry with
armor or mount. the Shimada-ryu, the Lion’s school of the spear. The
Iwase hold the spear overhead, thrusting downward
like the sharp beak of the crane, and balance on one
foot when striking.
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes

Skills
Athletics, Defense, Horsemanship, Hunting, Kenjutsu,
Sojutsu (yari), and Stealth
Techniques
Rank 1: Stance of the Crane
At this rank the bushi learns to emulate the motions of
the crane: wings that batter and a beak that strikes
instantly. Instead of a normal attack the bushi may
sweep an opponent (as the Kaze-do maneuver) using
the butt end of a yari, naginata, or bo-staff. Use the
appropriate weapon skill in place of Kaze-do. Also, if
the bushi gets an extra initiative die for using a pole-
arm, he keeps an extra die as well.
Rank 2: Wading in the Rushes
From observing the crane, the bushi learns to watch for
opportunities before committing to battle. The scout
may declare the degree to which he is engaged in a
battle after advantage has been determined and after he
has rolled to determine which row of the battle table he
will read from this turn.
Rank 3: Fishing for Men
As the crane hunts fish, so the bushi learns to hunt
men: killing with a single stroke. The bushi may use
raises to strike a fatal blow. Each raise allows the bushi
to keep one extra die of damage. If the damage does
not kill the target it instead does exactly one wound.
This is not considered a reduction of damage.
Outfit
(Three items are of fine quality): Katana, Wakizashi,
Yari, Travelling Pack, Dried Food, Drab-coloured
Kimono, 1 Koku, Mount.
The Daidoji
The Daidoji Archery School
By: Andrew McGregor
Daidoji Tenzo was a taisa in what passed for the
Crane army. At the time, he led the only archery
command. Even though he studied at the Daidoji
school, he was fascinated by Kakita, the man and his
prowess with t he blade. Tenzo was a great archer, but
was dissatisfied with his general performance and that
of his men. In pursuit of excellence, he sought many
ways to improve his skill. While rereading Kakita's
The Sword, he decided that many of Kakita's words
could be applied to archery. He spent 20+ years
perfecting his style and technique and passed each new
discovery to his men. Astounded at their effectiveness,
the Crane Champion commanded him to create a
formal school to instruct future soldiers so that his
technique would be preserved. Graduates of this
school are often not regarded as real bushi by many
other schools, but that's fine, they serve their clan in
their capacity.
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Archery 2, defense, kenjutsu, meditation, battle, any 1
high or bugei skill
Rank 1: Kyudo
The archer begins to learn the deep strength necessary
to use the bow to its most effective degree. At this rank
he may substitute his archery skill for his meditation
skill when he has his bow. Additionally, he may add
his AIR ring to all hit rolls with the bow
Rank 2: All Or Nothing
At this level of skill the the archer has come to
realize that by 'opening himself' to the target, he can
make seemingly precise shots. For each action spent
meditating on the target, he receives a free raise up to
the limit of his skill. When doing so, the archer is still
and has a TN to hit of 5.
Rank 3: A Moment of Clarity
At this level, the archer's skill has further
progressed so that he may fire with surety more
swiftly. He may spend a number of void points equal
to his school rank when firing a bow.
Rank 4: Blackened Sky
Through economy of motion and the deep power of his
trance, the archer may fire twice per melee round.
Rank 5: The Way Has No Distraction
The archer has learned ignore any distractions, there is
only the target. When making this supreme shot, he
may only fire once per round. He always hits
unmoving targets such as a wall or a stationary
samurai. If the target is moving such as in normal
combat, the archer may roll his Void + archery skill to
hit his target ignoring any modifiers to hit whether they
be from wounds, armor (either what he wears or the
target), distance, movement, horseback fire, paper
walls, etc. Only the targets decisive action may save
him from being struck.
Outfit
Bow, 30 arrows, light armor, wakizashi, any 1 weapon
(may not be a katana), 8 koku, all items are considered
to be of fine quality
The Kakita Artisian Schools.
Swordsmith
By: Andrew McGregor
The Kakita swordsmiths are arguably the best in the
empire with the exception of the Kaiu engineers with
whom they share a rivalry. Throughout their life, they
learn and hone the secrets of crafting the finest blades
possible. By extension, this gives them knowledge on
many levels of metallurgy, kenjutsu, and bushido
(since the sword is supposed to reflect a samurai's soul)
Rank 1
When crafting a blade, the swordsmith gains a number
of free raises equal to his school rank to reflect the
honing of their art
Rank 2
Due their knowledge and awareness of swords, the
artisan can on a successful skill roll determine things
about a blade and its wielder, that are normally not
known. In order to do this, he must examine it closely
but not necessarily touch the blade in question. The
artisan may learn information about the wielder's
ancestors, his personality, the sword's history and
crafter etc. The more raises, the more detailed the
information.
Rank 3
At this rank, the artisan's intuitive knowledge of sword
wielder's soul is so great, that he can spend a void
point to render and a number of attacks by the sword
wielder against him ineffective as moves aside form
each blow. An opposed void+kenjutsu (by the wielder)
and the void+weaponsmith (of the artisan) must be
used to determine the effectiveness of the technique.
The Tea Master
By: Andrew McGregor
The tea ceremony is a thing of great beauty and
serenity. It can be used to harmonize and cleanse ones
soul. The tea master has a working knowledge of herbs
and tea preparation techniques.
Rank 1
When the tea master performs the ceremony, each
participant up to his normal limit regains two void
points.
Rank 2
On a successful test, each participant gains a free raise
on their next action, due to their inner harmony
attained from the ceremony.
Rank 3
At this level, the tea master may cleanse the body of
any poisons or drugs in each participant assuming they
live through the ceremony. This is due to the ceremony
correcting the body's own chi and forcing out any
negative chi. It is possible with the proper materials to
even remove some Shadowlands taint.
I realize, that the tea master isn't as well thought out as
the swordsmith, but bear with me. Like I said any
questions or comments are appreciated. Let me know
what you think folks. That's all
The Final Breath
A Kakita-ryu style of Swordsmanship
The Final Breath school of swordsmanship is
dedicated solely to the execellence of the blade that is
demonstrated in the iaijutsu duel. The swordman of
this style make no claim to being the Emperor's
champions (a duty that many of the main style of the
Kakita school do) and are more like warrior monks,
distiling from Kakita's words a philophy of life that is
fatalistic even by samurai standards.
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Begining Honor: 3, plus zero boxes
Skills
Etiquette, History (Crane), Iaijutsu 2, Poetry, Sincerity,
Theology
Techniques
Rank 1: Way of the Crane
As the Kakita Bushi School
Rank 2: The Sudden Strike
As the Kakita School
Rank 3: Unsheath the Soul
At this rank the student learns to be one with the
sword, free from artifice, and above simple repetition.
He may spend a number of void points equal to his
School Rank on Iaijutsu attacks (including duels) and
may choose how many void points to spend after
rolling the attack.
Rank 4: Kharmic Strike
If the duelist declares "strike" in an iaijutsu duel, he
may increase his TN to equal that of his opponent and
the two attacks are considered simultaneous.
Rank 5: The Final Breath
The bushi is no longer limited by his Void Ring for
raises with any skill taught by the school or for focuses
in a duel.

Moon-lit Waters
A Kakita-ryu style of Swordsmanship
The Moon-lit waters school aplies the principles of
Kakita's The Sword to the glories of the battlefield. It
does not seek special mastery of the iaijustsu duel, but
to demonstrate that Kakita's wisdom apllies to all of a
warrior's battles.
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Begining Honor: 3, plus zero boxes
Skills
Battle, Defense, Etiquette, Iaijutsu, Intimidation,
Poetry, and Sincerity
Techniques
Rank 1: Way of the Crane
As the Kakita Bushi School
Rank 2: The Wave Breaking Stroke
The bushi's attacks come with such suddenness that the
air itself snaps, torn by the blade's passage. Opponents
do not gain any benefit from declaring Full Defense in
the face of such unexpected attacks.
Rank 3: Strike Without Striking
The bushi is so swift in his motions that he can strike,
return his blade to the saya, and still have time to
dodge. The character can make a roll for a normal
attack (never a Full Attack) and his TN to be Hit this
round gains the benefit of using Full Defense. The
character may not combine this technique with any
technique that gives two attacks in one round.
Rank 4: One Strike, Two Cuts
The bushi's practice of formal, ritualized cuts,
combined with his speed, alows the bushi to perform a
short kata where others make a single attack. If the
bushi declares a Full Attack, instead of receiving an
additional +2k0, he may roll damage twice, inflicting
two hits on the opponent if the attack succeeds.
Rank 5: Strike With No Thought
As Kakita Bushi School
The Doji
Doji Bushi School
By: Scott Gearin
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 3, plus 5 boxes
Skills
Archery, Bo-jutsu, Courtier, Defense, Iaijutsu,
Kenjutsu, and Pick one High Skill
Note
The range categories for bows (which this
school references) are:
Close: 0-100 yards, no penalties
Extended: 100-200 yards, -2 dice to hit and -1k0
damage
Extreme(limited to daikyu on horseback): 200-300
yards, -4 dice and -1k1 damage
Techniques
Rank 1: The Two Shouts
The bushi learns the great shouts of the Doji-ryu, war-
cries to strengthen the heart and steady the hand. By
spending a void point before rolling, the bushi may
either automatically suceed on a non-contested
Willpower roll (the First Shout) or to make two rolls
when using a bugei skill, keeping the higher roll (the
Second Shout).
Rank 2: Let your Spirit Guide You
Doji archers are amongst the best in the Great Clans.
The bushi may substitue his Honor for the Strength of
his bow, and can use the Extreme Range category
(200-300 yards, -4 dice to hit, -1k1 to damage) without
being mounted.
Rank 3:The Final Shout
At this rank the bushi masters the last of the Doji war-
cries. After winning a battle, skirmish, or duel the
Crane may give his victory yell. The Final Shout
allows the bushi to recover all of his void points. The
shout may be performed once, only after combat ends
and the bushi is victorious.
Rank 4: Unfurl the White Wings
Few notice, but the crane is the color of death. The
bushi may make two attacks per turn with both ranged
and melee weapons taught by this school.
Rank 5: To Do What We Must
The Doji learns the power of letting go of life and
surrendering entirely to the demands of destiny. Before
rolling initiative, the bushi may spend a void point "To
Do What He Must". That turn he will make a number
of Full Attacks equal to his Honor Rank. The bushi
automatically loses initiative, declaring his attacks first
and acting last. The bushi ignores the effects (including
death) of any wounds taken that round until after his
attacks are resolved.
Outfit
(All items are of fine quality) Katana, Wakizashi, Bo,
Yumi, 20 Arrows, Light Armor, Helm, Traveling Pack,
2 Kimonos, any 1 weapon, 8 Koku
 DRAGON
Usami Family (Mirumoto
Vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
The Usami are the battle-
philosophers who aid in the planing of the Dragon's
defenses.
Benefit: +1 Perception
Usami (Dragon Clan) Bushi School
Like the Mirumoto-ryu, this school is based upon the
words of Mirumoto Hojatsu. While the students of the
Usami-ryu also fight with katana and wakizashi drawn,
they gain no benefit from it until the third rank.
Benefit: +1 Strength
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Archery, Battle, Defense, Engineering, Kenjutsu,
Nazodo, and Shintao
Techniques
Rank 1: Let Him Go By
Studying the words of Hojatsu, the bushi learns to
meet aggression with emptiness. Opponents making
full attacks do not receive two extra dice when
attacking this character. The maximum number of
raises (not including free raises) an opponent may
declare against the bushi is reduced to the opponent's
Void Ring minus the (Usami) bushi's School Rank.
Rank 2: Strike from the Spirit
At this rank the bushi begins to understand what it
means to "leave your mind behind" and to act only
from the spirit. Unencumbered by thought and artifice
the blade strikes swiftly and freely. The bushi may
choose to roll (School Rank) keep 1 as a base for
initiative (pole arms and quick would further modify
the roll), but if he does so he may make no raises of
any sort that round.
Rank 3: The River Sword
At this rank the bushi has learned to be flowing in his
attacks. If the bushi is armed with katana and
wakizashi, and hits with the katana, he automatically
hits the same opponent with the wakizashi as well.
This does a flat 3k2 (no strength bonus), dropping the
highest die. Raises cannot be used to effect this roll.
This technique may never be used in combination with
a technique that grants multiple attacks.
Your Outfit
(All considered to be average quality) Katana,
wakizashi, bow, 20 arrows of any type, light armor,
travelling pack, any 1 weapon, kimono, 2 koku
A word about The River Sword: Try this roll (3k2 drop
highest) a few times. It's relatively minor. This is to
represent the various penalties for using the off-hand
and to keep this technique from being too gross. Since
it can't be used against two opponents at once it is
potentially much weaker than the normal 2 attacks per
round that most schools get (if you can regularly kill a
man with the katana's damage the wakizashi is just
icing).
Hotate Family (Togashi Vassals)
By: JCMarshall
The Hotate are a rather strange family. Begun by the
Togashi Daimyo some 100 years ago, the Hotate are
given 3 tattoos upon their entrance into the Hotate
scout school and then no more. These tattoos are
always animal based, and no other types are ever
granted.
The Hotate prowl the lands of the Dragon, looking for
interlopers and spies.
Benefit: +1 Stamina
Hotate (Dragon Clan) Scout School
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Kenjutsu, Stealth, Archery, Athletics, Hand-to-Hand:
Kaze-do, +2 High or Bugei skills
Techniques
Rank 1: The Wind behind the Back
The Hotate scout first learns how to run like the wind
itself so that he can report back to his base on
intruders. They may maintain a running pace for a
number of hours equal to their stamina times two, after
which they must rest for an equal amount of time.
Assume a speed of at least 10mph.
Rank 2: To soar like the Wind
The Hotate scout is able to leap vast distances as if he
were gliding upon the wind itself. The Hotate may
actually leap a distance of twice his strength in feet
from a stand still, either across or straight up. He may
also triple that distance for long jumps if he has a
running start.

Rank 3: One with the Wind
It is said the Hotate have mastered their kinship with
the wind to such a point that it will hide them from all
detection. By spending a Void point and remaining
perfectly still, the Hotate scout become effectively
invisible to all. Unless the scout makes a sudden move
or a shugenja casts a "see the invisible" spell, the scout
cannot be seen.
Outfit
(All considered to be average quality) Katana,
wakizashi, clothing, running sandals, black body paint,
3 tattoos (all must be animal based tattoos).
Itou Family (Agasha Vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
Once, when the magics of an Agasha shugenja saved
the life of her only child, Itou Saemi swore that, “so
long as one Itou draws breath there will be a samurai to
stand guard before the Agasha.” Her children have
served the Dragon ever since.
Benefit: +1 Perception
Itou (Dragon Clan) Bodyguard School
Those who carry out the eternal oath of the Itou learn
the ways of the yojimbo, ready to give their lives to
preserve those of Agasha blood.
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Defense 2, Etiquette, Iaijutsu, Kenjutsu, Shugenja lore,
and pick one bugei skill
Techniques
Rank 1: Guiding the Blow
At this rank the bushi has learned to fight using the
sword and saya techniques of the Itou style. If the
bushi has his saya in his off-hand he keeps two dice
when declaring full defense. The bushi is also trained
to strike in any direction. He may attack overhead, at
his feet, or even directly behind himself at no penalty.
Rank 2: Bearing the Blow
At this rank the bushi learns to place himself between
danger and that which he guards. He may redirect a
number of attacks aimed at one other person to himself
equal to his school rank each round. This does not take
an action on the part of the bodyguard, and must be
declared before the attack is rolled.
Rank 3: Breaking the Blow
Instead of using her saya to defend, the bodyguard may
now use it to foul other’s attacks. The yojimbo may
choose one opponent within melee range who must
drop his highest die to hit and damage that round. The
opponent does not have to be attacking the bodyguard.
If the yojimbo has declared full defense that round she
only keeps one die.
Outfit
(All considered to be average quality) Katana,
wakizashi, bow, 20 arrows of any type, light armor,
travelling pack, any one item, kimono, 2 koku
The Agasha
The Agasha Swordsmithing School
Benefit: +1 to any trait
Beginning Honor: 2 +5 boxes
Skills
Shintao, Meditation, Ettiquete, Weaponsmithing, plus
any bugei or high skill.
Rank 1: Soul of Honor
The katana is the soul of the Samurai. A sword
reflects the honor of it's maker. At this rank the
Swordsmith may add his honor rank to his
weaponsmithing skill.
Rank 2: Test of the Soul
The smith learns how to improve upon a
already existing blade. He may add 1k1 to a sword by
succeeding at a Earth+Weaponsmith roll versus a TN
of the new roll+keep x 5. Thus, to improve a sword
from 3k2 would be a TN of 35 (for 4k3). The Blade
may only be improved one increase (no jumping from
3k2 to 5k4). A sword may only be improved this way
once, and if the roll is a failure the blade is ruined.
The smith may not use this ability on a sword he just
created, to do so would interrupt the delicate balance
of the elements in the new blade. If the smith later
decides to improve his creation the TN is 10 less than
normal.
Rank 3: Sharing the Soul
The Swordsmith is better able to direct the
efforts of the others helping him. When working with
others on a project, the Swordsmith gets a free raise for
each person helping out. This bonus is effected by the
number of apprentices the Swordsmith has. At any
time, the smith can have/attract a number of
apprentices equal to his glory rank.
Rank 4: The Soul goes forth
Steel is the true friend of the smith. It becomes easy
for the smith to snap blades, with his chi. The
difficulty of this is a Earth+Meditation versus a TN
equal ot the roll+keep of the sword x 5. This ability
may only be used a number of times a day equal to
the smith's Earth ring. If the blade was a sword created
b y the smith, theTN is decreased by 10. If the smith
wants to use this ability in combat, he must spend a
void point to do so. If the smith fails this attack, the
target of the attack gets a free raise for damage on the
smith.
Rank 5: Awaking the soul
The Swordsmith has learned how to awaken the
spirits of the items he creates. Such a undertaking is
not easy though. The TN to make a sword a Nemuranai
is ten points higher than a weapon of compariable
quality. (Thus a fine Nemuranai would be a TN of 30).
It also exacts it's price from the Swordsmith (Who
loses 10 xp, and 1 void point, which doesn't come back
for a week after the forging is complete, the xp are
gone for good). The smith cannot get the void point
back through meditation.
Outfit
(all considered to be of average quality)
Kimono, Travelling pack, Katana(fine quality),
Wakizashi, Tools, 5 koku.
Hayato Family (Mirumoto Vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
The Hayato are a small family within the Dragon Clan,
and the keepers of a sad, but sacred trust. Mirumoto
Hayato was the Dragon's emissary to the Snake Clan, a
minor Clan that split from the Dragon generations
before. When the much respected Snake Clan was
obliterated, Hayato was the only man left alive who
had trained in their school. Mirumoto Raizo, daimyo of
the Mirumoto (with the Champion's approval) gave
Hayato permision to found his own Family within the
Dragon. Hayato was to keep the teachings of the Snake
alive, that the memory of such honored cousins should
not pass away completely. It is a task to which they
have dedicated themselves to. (Characters from this
family MUST attend the Hayato school if they are
bushi.)
Benefit: +1 Awareness
Hayato Bushi School
From the Blood of the Dragon it arose, and to the
Dragon it has returned. The Snake Clan, born of the
Mirumoto, fought with two swords as well. The
Hayato presever their ways exactly, as a living tribute
to memory of their extinct kin. All of these techniques
may only be performed with swords, and the second
and third require the student to have two swords in
hand to perfom them.
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 2, plus 5 boxes
Skills
Archery, Defense, Etiquette, History, Iaijutsu,
Kenjutsu, Meditation
Techniques
Rank 1: Way of the Snake
The snake strikes with such speed and precision that
only the sharpest eye may observe the stroke. A
student of the Snake school learns to strike with the
same abruptness. When attacking with a sword (or any
kenjutsu-based weapon) the bushi rolls Reflexes +
Kenjutsu instead of using Agility.
Rank 2: Sun and Moon Cut
The fangs of a serpent strike together, as do the blades
of the snake school. Durring a full attack, if the bushi
is armed with two sword, he strikes with both. The
combined damage is equal to the more damaging
weapon +1k1.
Rank 3: The Coils of Enticement
By luring an opponent off guard with one blade, the
bushi may set him up for a devastating reposte with the
other. The bushi must select one opponent who has
already declared an attack against him (and therefore
must have a lower initiative this round). Intead of
attacking, the Hayato then rolls his Reflexes +
Kenjutsu. This result becomes the targeted opponent's
TN to hit the bushi (others use the TN for a normal
attack). If the opponent misses, the Hayato -
automatically- hits the targeted opponent with one
sword. The target then loses any other attack he was
entitled to this round. The Hyato may not raise while
attempting this manuever. If the opponent does hit, the
Hayato makes no attacks this round.
Agasha Foundry Schools
The only craftsman and creators that can rival the
Kakita Artisans or the great Kaiu Smiths are the
masters of the Agasha foundries. Influenced deeply by
the Nazo Bubun No Agasha, or, "Agasha's little puzzle
peices", the foundries are arguably the best set of trade
schools in Rokugan. The first Katanas of the Empire
came from the Agasha foundries, replacing the Tachi
that the Samurai caste had used till then. And, for a
period of time, only the Agasha school held the secret
of creating Katanas and Wakizashis, until suddenly the
Kakita and the Kaiu, then smithies all around the
Empire suddenly started producing them. These days,
most of the other people of the Empire aren't much
interested in what goes on at the Agasha foundries, but
the Mirumoto use the inventiveness and high quality of
products produced at the Foundries to benefit the Clan
and enrich the people. Further, the graduates of the
Agasha foundries serve as the Dragon's samurai
merchants, trading in the finest crafts of the Empire
and giving the Yasuki a run for their money. Also
represented by this set of schools are the Agasha
healers, accupuncturists and doctors who cure through
non-magical means
Benefit: +1 Intelligence or Perception.
Skills
This depends on the Trade School that the character
graduates from. Below are a few examples.
Weaponsmith
Armorer, Commerce,Craft (Blacksmith), Kenjutsu,
Nazodo,Weaponsmith, 1 High or Bugei skill.
Healer
Advanced Medicine 2, Herbalism, Mitsugusiri, Poison,
Shintao, 1 High or Bugei skill
Tradesman
Commerce, 1 Craft skill,Etiquette, Ichi-Miru, Nazodo,
Sincerity, any 1 other skill
Gardener
Shintao , Craft (Landscaping) , Herbalism , Craft
(Farming), History, Bard, any 1 High or Low skill
(These tradesman breed new plants, create the story
gardens, yet are also close to the Heimen, thus any
High or Low skill. They usually don't fight, however,
so no Bugei skills.)
Scholar
Nazodo, History, Bard, Heraldry, Etiquette, Courtier, 1
High skill
Alchemist
Nazodo, Mitsugusiri, Kagaku, Shintao, Shugenja Lore,
Herbalism, 1 High Skill
Beginning Honor: 2, and 5 Boxes
Beginning Glory: 0 and 5 boxes (there isn't much
Glory in dealing with production of material goods.
However, Foundrymen are considered indispensable
by the Mirumoto and are often asked to serve Courts
all across Rokugan in the positions of their various
trades.
Special Note: It's important to note that there is not an
architect foundry, that being the province of the Kaiu,
and the Agasha Sword Foundry equals that of the Kaiu
Forges or the school of the Kakita Master Blade
Artisans (despite what others may say about the Kakita
Blades.) However, while the Foundries do teach skills
like Seige, Lore:Architecture and Craft:Construction,
the Kaiu are still the undisputed masters of defensive
construction in Rokugan.
Techniques
Rank 1: Begin the Puzzle
At this Rank, the newcomer to the Foundry begins
intensive study of his or her chosen craft. The Agasha
Foundryman may add 1 free raise, per rank,to the use
of any *1* chosen skill from her Foundry. For
example, Agasha Retsu is an Agasha Swordsmith, and
designates his Weaponsmith skill as the skill that
benefits from Begin the Puzzle. As the Foundryman
advances in rank, he or she chooses an additional skill,
up until 5 skills at Rank 5. Thus, Agasha Retsu can add
two free raises to *two* of his skills at Rank 2, three
free raises to three skills at Rank 3, and so on. The
only restriction
Rank 2:The Peices are One
At this rank, the Agasha Foundryman can spend as
many Void points as he or she likes on the use of any
of her Foundry skills, even if they are not designated
skills via the Rank 1 technique.
Rank 3:The Puzzle Deepens
At this rank, through intense study of the Tao
of Shinsei and Agasha's principles, the Foundryman
gains an intuitive sense the mysteries of his or her
craft. By expending a Void point, the craftsman can
negate any penalties that would normally incur to the
use of his or her Foundry Skills by lack of tools, bad
working conditions, lack of light or other details. This
lasts for one hour per rank.
Rank 4:Fitting the pieces
The Foundryman's skills become effortless and artful,
a manifestation of no-mind. Whenever the
Foundryman makes a skill roll with Raises, and misses
the raises but make the skill roll, he or she is
considered to have succeeded with a base result...as if
he or she made the roll, but had declared no raises.
Any free raises from the Rank 1 technique still apply.
Rank 5: The Puzzle is solved
At this rank, the Master is a true Sensei of his or her
craft. Without a roll, the Master may succeed at the use
of any of his or her Foundry skills as if he or she had
rolled a basic success, plus Free Raises from the Rank
1 Technique. This may only be done once per day per
rank. If the Master Foundryman still wishes to Raise,
he or she must roll.
Basic outfit
Wakizashi, set of tools for one craft, Kimono, Sandals,
travelling pack, 10 Koku (5 of which are in trade goods
you have crafted), wagon and pony if trade goods are Mirumoto commanders who see duels quite often, or
bulky. duelists that act as Yojimbo to spell casters.

Mirumoto Duelist School Outfit

This school is actually Mirumoto's original dueling Fine Agasha Forged Daisho, travelling pack, any 1
technique, as opposed to the Bushi school he later weapon, Kimono, 2 Koku
developed for the armies he helped train and create at
the outset of the first war with Fu Leng. This school
was carried on by Hojatsu, Mirumoto's son, and is still
practiced by Mirumoto swordsman to this day.
Traditionally Mirumoto Bushi who have ambitions to
be Yojimbo to Courtiers (such as the Kitsuki
Magistrates) study this elite school, as opposed to
those who wish to be soldiers and act in support of the
Agasha Shugenja, who study at the more common
Mirumoto Bushi school. However, so much of the
technique in both schools is so interchangeable that a
practicioner of one can switch over to another if they
do it before they achieve rank 2. Mirumoto duelists
often emulate their great ancestor and sensei by
wandering the roads, seeking truth as well as the
opportunity to defend the innocent. More practically,
Mirumoto Duelists guard and stand as champions for
Kistuki Magistrates, being the only swordsman in the
Empire who can match the skills of the famed Kakita
duelists. Often, these Yojimbo often are forced into
Duels to support the truth of the claims of Kitsuki
magistrates.

Benefit: +1 any Trait

Beginning Honor: 2, plus 5 boxes

Skills
Defense, Iaijustu, Kenjutsu 2, Meditation, Shugenja
Lore, any one High or Bugei skill

Techniques
As per Mirumoto Bushi School (L5R RPG, pg 82),
except substitute the Rank 3 technique with the
following...

Rank 3: Strike from the Spirit

At this Rank, the Mirumoto Duelist has learned the
secrets of the 5 stances, and how to strike from his or
her unfettered spirit. The Mirumoto Duelist adds their
Void rank to all to hit, damage and initiative rolls, and
may spend 2 void points instead of one on any roll
involving Kenjutsu or Iaijutsu.

(Note - standard Mirumoto Bushi can take this

technique if they wish, or a Mirumoto Duelist can
learn Blood of My Brothers (Mirumoto 3, L5R RPG
Pg 82) instead. This option is most often taken by
 LION
Matsu (Lion Clan)
Beastmaster School
By: Scott Gearin
Benefit: +1 Awareness
Beginning Honor: 3, plus 5 boxes
Skills
Animal Husbandry, Animal Training 2, Hunting,
Meditation, Mimic, and pick one bugei skill
Techniques
Rank 1: Brother to Lions
The beastmaster shares a special kinship with the
animals of Rokugan. No animal untouched by the taint
will ever attack the beastmaster. The beastmaster also
may "bond" a number of animals equal to his school
rank. A bonded animal will stay in ithe character's
vicinity at all times, roaming only to feed.
Rank 2: Friends need no Words
The beastmaster may determine the general intent or
desires of an animal by observing it for several rounds
and making a simple Air roll with a TN se by the GM.
The beastmaster does not need to roll to understand
animals he has bonded.
Rank 3: Eyes in the Night
At this rank the beastmaster may view the world
through the senses of one of his bonded friends. The
beastmaster must spend a void point to do so, and the
sharing lasts for a number of minutes equal to the
beastmaster's school rank.
Rank 4: King of the Beasts
At this rank the beastmaster's presence is so potent
amongst animals that he may command them. This
requires an opposes willpower roll. If the animal is
under the direct control of another person, use the
controller's willpower instead.
Rank 5: Walk with Me, Brother
At this rank the beastmaster may move his soul into
one of his bonded friends, "riding" in the body and
sharing in the control. It takes five minutes of
preparation to do so, and the bonded animal must be
within line of sight. The beastmaster's own body
remains in a trance during these travels. This may be
done safely for one hour per rank of meditation skill.
For every hour beyond this he must make a test of
honor, starting at TN 5, and increasing by 5 each time,
or lose his soul to the animals. Forever. A most
shameful demise.
Outfit
(One item is of fine quality, the rest of average
quality): Wakizashi, Traveling Pack, Kimono, 4 Koku,
Light Armor or Mount.
Goseki Family (Matsu vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
Those of the loyal Goseki family who attend other
schools are often the yojimbo of important Lion
clansmen.
Benefit: +1 Strength
Goseki (Lion Clan) Bushi School
Often called the Lion berserkers, a student of the
Goseki-ryu's eyes frequently burn with the inner fire of
bushido.
Benefit: +1 Willpower
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Archery, Battle, Bushido Lore, History, Jujitsu,
Kenjutsu, and Yadomejutsu
Techniques
Rank 1: The Way of Anger
The attacks of the Goseki school are based on crushing
power more than graceful swordplay. While making an
attack the bushi may substitute his strength for agility,
rolling Strength + Weapon Skill keeping Strength.
Rank 2: Three Cuts Kata
At this rank the Bushi begins to learn the Goseki's
most powerful technique: The three cuts kata. If the
character succeeds in hitting with a normal attack, he
may immediately make another (normal) attack on the
same opponent using the previous TN +10. The
maximum, total number of attacks the character can
make in a round is equal to his school rank. This may
not be combined with the effects of ANY other
technique (including the Goseki rank 1).
Rank 3: Blade of Rage
The bushi's physical strength and robust, aggressive
chi are overwhelming. If the bushi succeeds in hitting
with a full attack the opponent must make a simple
Water + Athletics roll with a TN equal to the damage
or be knocked from his feet. If the target has not taken
an action this round he may switch his action to
standing up. The TN to hit a prone character is 5.
Your Outfit
(All considered to be average quality) Player chooses
one to be of fine quality: Katana, wakizashi, bow, 20
arrows of any type, light armour, helm, travelling pack,
kimono, any 2 weapons, 3 koku.
Shokawa Family (Ikoma Vassals)
The Shokawa are a practical and straightforward
family, with a long tradition of tactical knowledge.
Many major families have used Shokawa generals for
hundreds of years for battles.
Benefit: +1 Perception
Shokawa (Lion Clan) Tactical School
Benefit: +1 Intelligence
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Battle, Kenjutsu, History, Lore (tactics), Lore
(Bushido), Heraldry, any High or Bugei Skill
Techniques
Rank 1: Bushido Master
At this rank the Shokawa may instil the virtues of
Bushido before combat to a bushi (or himself) that
accepts it. After 1 minute per opponent's rank of
instruction by the Shokawa (Lore: Bushido test vs. TN
6-(lower of target's rank or intelligence) X 5, +5 for
non-lion, +5 more if bushi's honor < 2), the Shokawa
can give a number of free Raises equal to his rank
(plus 1 per Raise). The Bushi can use a number of
additional Raises per round equal to rank (Void limit
still applies). Any Raises not used in the combat are
lost.
Rank 2: Battle Lore
At this rank the Shokawa knows the best ground and
tactics to use. With a successful Lore: Tactics test vs.
a TN of the enemy generals Rank X 5 (+5 if non-Lion,
+5 if non-Great Clan), the Shokawa adds or subtracts 1
level on the Battle Chart.
Rank 3: Lore Master
The Shokawa may spend any number of Void points in
Lore tests regarding battle tactics or military issues.
Outfit
(One item is of fine quality) Katana, Wakizashi, Light
Armor, Travelling Pack, Kimono, any 1 weapon, 4
Koku.
Shimada Family (Ikoma Vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
The warriors of the Shimada family will press an
attack long after any other samurai would have paused
for rest. They are often involved in the sieges fought
by the Lion.
Benefit: +1 Stamina
Shimada (Lion Clan) Bushi School
The Shimada have a saying: “War is Run!” and they
are tireless runners. They fight holding the spear to the
hip and their charges only end when the point is seen
coming out the other side of a foe. They despise the
effete spear-work of their rival school, the Iwase-ryu.
Benefit: +1 Agility
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Athletics 2, Battle, Defense, Kenjutsu, Siege, and
Sojutsu (yari)
Techniques
Rank 1: Onslaught of the Lion
The persistence of the Shimada-ryu is tested from the
very first day. If the bushi misses with a normal attack
he may try again, targeting the same opponent and
rolling at -2k-1. The maximum number of extra
attempts equals the bushi’s school rank. The die
penalties from multiple attempts are cumulative (-2k-1,
then -4k-2, finally -6k-3). Each attack is separate (dice
from void points do not roll over to the next try), and
once an attack succeeds no further attempts are
allowed. This technique may not be combined with any
technique that gives multiple attacks per round.
Rank 2: Charge!!!
The bushi may employ a tactic similar to that used by
mounted lancers. For each full round the bushi has run
towards his enemy before striking, he may roll an
additional die for damage (maximum extra dice equal
to his school rank).
Rank 3: Roar of 10,000 Lions
At this rank the bushi learns the tremendous battle cry
of a Lion samurai. The bushi spends a void point as
she unleashes a great snarl. All enemies that can both
see and hear the Lion are subject to a fear effect equal
to half the Lion’s glory rank (round up).
Outfit
(All considered to be average quality; Player chooses
one item to be of fine quality) Katana, wakizashi, bow,
20 arrows of any type, light armor, helm, travelling
pack, kimono, any 3 weapons, 5 koku

The Akodo
Akodo Tactical School
The Akodo Tactical School has long been respected
as the pre-eminent place to learn the essentials of
command and manuever. While other clans send their
generals and commanders to the Akodo school to study
the scrolls and records maintained by the Ikoma
historians, only the school's permanent students learn
the deeper secrets of the tactical school founded by
Akodo himself.
Sensei
While Akodo Kage is revered as one of the greatest
teachers the Lion Clan has ever produced, it is Akodo
Atamori who heads the Akodo Tactics School.
Atamori has a completely uncompromisng attitude
towards his students, allowing them no weaknesses.
"The live of thousands of men- no, thousands of
soldiers!- will be placed in your hands. If those hands
tremble, I will learn of it here." Atamori is also known
as one of Rokugan's greatest go players, matched only
by the likes of Master Suana and possibly Kitsu Motso.
Akodo Atamori- "Keeper of Akodo's Steps"
Akodo Tactician 5 - H:4 G:7
AIR:3 EARTH:4 FIRE:4 Inteligence:5 WATER:5
VOID:4
Notable Skills: Battle 5, Bushido Lore 4, Go 5, History
4, Kenjutsu 4, Leadership 4, Siege 4, Tessen 5
Special: Ancestor: Akodo, Permanent Wound, Position
(Sensei), Tactician
Dojo- "Seven Black Stones"
The head dojo of the school is known as the the
"Seven Black Stones Dojo". This name comes from a
traditional handicaping arrangement in go. The weaker
opponent is offered not only the first move, but six
more stones as well. Many outsiders think this is pride.
The Akodo claim they can yeild such advantage and
still win. The students know better: that is the kind of
control you should seize before the game ever begins...
Benefit: +1 Perception
Beginning Honor: 3 + 5 boxes
Skills
Battle, Bushido Lore, History, Kenjutsu, Leadership,
Seige, and Tessen
Techniques
Rank 1: Owning the Board
The tactician gains the Way of the Land Advantage
for every province of one clan, and may pick another
clan at each School Rank here after. All of the minor
clans count as a single pick, and the unaligned and
imperial lands count as another.
Rank 2: The Soul of Akodo
"A great man's heart can pump the life's blood of a
thousand men." Where the Akodo bushi learns to enter
the thick of battle and destroy the enemy, the Akodo
tactician must learn that upon his life depends the lives
of others. The tactician adds his Honor Rank to his TN
to be hit and subtracts it from the damage taken each
turn on the battle table.
Rank 3: Tactics of Mistake
No one seizes upon an enemy's error like an Akodo.
The tactician may spend a void point to force an
opponent to discard his highest die (therefore keeping
less than his best) during a Bugei Skill roll. This may
only be done once per roll.
Rank 4: With the Strength of My Ancestors
Same as the Akodo Bushi School's third rank
technique.
Rank 5: The Art of War
At this rank the bushi has devoted his life to the way
of bushido and mastery of the Art of War. The bushi
receives a number of free raises equal to his Honor
Rank in all rolls using the school's seven skills.
Outfit
(One item is of fine quality, the rest of average
quality): Katana, Wakizashi, Tessen, Light or Heavy
Armor, Helm, Banner, Traveling Pack,
Maps, Kimono, Commander's chair, 4 Koku.
Ikoma Budoka School
Here at Agate Palace Silver Mines and Bushi Dojo
Temp Agency, we are committed to bringing you the
highest quality in staffing solutions. I would like to
take a moment to introduce you all to our newest
training program, certain to fill a previously empty
niche in your Rokugan Portfolio. Back from the lost
mists of history, the one and only Ikoma Budoka! (I
had spent half an hour playing Street Fighter III when
the character Makoto grabbed me by the collar, slamed
me to the ground, and informed me that she was a Lion
from the old school of Ikoma. I couldn't argue :). If you
are curious about the visual inspiration for this school,
you know what to look for now. I'm very pleased with
how it turned out.)
Benefit: +1 Stamina
Beginning Honor: 2, plus 5 boxes
Penalty: Characters wearing Heavy Armor may not
use or benefit from the techniques of this school.

Skills
Athletics, Defense, Etiquette, Kenjutsu, Jiujutsu,
Meditation, and Storytelling
Rank 1: Way of the Lion's Paw
The bushi has begun to learn the ferocious tenacity of
the First Ikoma's fighting style. The bushi ignores the
effects of wounds taken this turn until the end of the
turn (except for Death) and adds his School Rank to
his Attack and Damage Rolls when using Jiujutsu.
Rank 2: Hands of the River
The bushi becomes particularly adept at toppling his
foes with foot or fist. The bushi receives two Free
Raises when using the Sweeping maneuver of the
Jiujutsu Skill (see WotD).
Rank 3: The Lion's Den
To seek out the lion in its den is to chase after your
own death. The bushi learns the secrets of using an
attacking opponent's force against himself. The bushi
rolls and keeps an extra die of damage when striking
opponents who have declared an attack against the
bushi this turn.
Rank 4: Ikoma's Gambit
After actions have been declared for the turn, if the
bushi has declared a Full Attack, he may forego the
+2k0 bonus to instead get the first attack of the turn
(with the exception of characters using the 2nd rank
Daidoji technique). This attack must be made using
Jiujutsu. The Ikoma bushi's TN to be hit for the rest of
the turn is 5 + Armor. This may not be combined with
any technique that grants multiple attacks.
Rank 5: Closing the Jaws
Once one of Ikoma's descendants gets the upper hand
in a fight, he rains down blow after blow with a cold,
methodical fist until the enemy is crushed. The bushi
may make three Normal Attacks per round, with three
restrictions: they must be made with Jiujutsu, they
must target a single opponent, and if an attack misses
all remaining attacks for this round are lost.
Outfit
As Lion Bushi without yumi or arrows.
Akodo War College
By: Roger Mattsson
Akodo Tacticians may stay in the Akodo Bushi School
until they have reached rank 2 but must then switch to
Akodo War college
to focus on the deeper aspects of war and tactics. If
staying beyond rank 1 they may never learn the Rank 2
in the teachings of the War College.
Rank 1: Way of the Lion
The Akodo Tactician begin their training togeher with
the Akodo Bushi, as an initial bushi training.
The same as Akodo bushi Rank 1 Way of the Lion.
Rank 2: Changing the Course
BATTLE: The Tactician has knows that in battle all
decisions are important. If they make a Battle +
Perception vs TN 25 they may roll twice on the Battle
Table and choose the result.
COMBAT: The Tactician may re-roll one to hit die
per round.
Rank 3: Know the enemy
BATTLE: The Tactician have learned to spot an
opportunity and use it. When rolling on the Battle
Table, the Akodo Tactician may switch a Duel to
Heroic Opportunity or vice versa, if desired.
COMBAT: When the tactician is engaged in combat
situation, he or she may force a number of opponents
equal to their Battle skill engaging them, to declare
their actions before deciding their action. Actions are
still resolved in normal manner.
Rank 4: The Power of Leadership.
BATTLE: The tactician can guide his allies in battle,
making them far more effective. The Tactician can
make one Character or NPC (not from Akodo War
College) share their understanding of the battle, this
means that a target individual can use one assigned
BATTLE effect for one round. Tactician assigns them.
All rolls to make an effect occur is rolled by the
Tactician since he guides his allies. The Tactician may
not use any BATTLE effects for themselves this round.
COMBAT: The tactician has his Willpower trait
raised by half his Battle skill (rounded up) when doing
Fear checks.
Rank 5: The Art of War
BATTLE: The Tactician is so skilled in battle and
tactics that they can see what is about to occur in a few
moments before it actually happens. When the
Tactician is involved in a battle and gets Duel or
Heroic Opportunity they may roll Battle + Awareness
to get one of the following: TN 25, success indicates a
one round duel with the enemy Commander, failure
indicates that they are engaged by the bodyguard. TN
20, success puts them in a duel with the enemy standar
bearer. TN 15 to avoid a specific encounter, take
another encounter, may only be done once.
COMBAT: The Tactician is also skilled in all their
actions: Full Defense: roll Defense + Battle keeping
one die. Standard Attack: add half their skill rank in
Battle to TN to be hit or any to hit roll or damage roll,
must be decide before resolving actions. Full Attack:
add half his Battle skill to all damage and to hit rolls.
All fractions rounded up.

Outfit
Same as in Way of the Lion.
 PHOENIX
Asako (Phoenix Clan)
School of Knowledge
Benefit: +1 Intelligence
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
History, Heraldry, 2 Lores, Meditation, Calligraphy,
Shintao
Techniques
Rank 1: Understanding the Way
Re-roll any History, Heraldry or Lore skill dice rolled
that are equal to current school rank or less. Also the
character may participate in rituals.
Rank 2: Lore of Spirits
Gain Commune, Sense, Counter-spell, and Summon,
plus 3 spells of any element.
Rank 3: Focus of Mind
Spend any number Void points on any Lore, Heraldry
or History skill possessed.
Rank 4: Lore of the Soul
When perceiving a person, may make contested test
(Void + rank) vs. (Will + rank). Success means the
character learns 1 of the following: history, current
Rings/Attributes, spells, Techniques, rank or skills and
gain +5 on any action vs. person per Raise. May not
be done in combat, unless Asako Full Defends and is
not hit. Roll is at end of combat round.
Rank 5: Interrogation of the Soul
After a successful Lore of Soul test, the character may
spend a Void point to gain a number of free Raises
equal to the Raises that an opponent has gained vs. the
Asako, in any test vs. that person. That person must
use a Void point to use a Special Technique vs. the
Asako.
Outfit
(All considered to be average quality; player chooses
one item to be of fine quality) Kimono, travelling pack,
scroll satchel, wakizashi, tanto, 4 koku, first aid kit, 2
books (blank).
Karubo Family (Isawa Vassals)
By: JCMarshall
Though the Isawa are the Empire's best spell casters
and are known for their ability to create and research
spells the Karubo are artificers without peer.
Benefit: +1 Intelligence
Karubo (Phoenix Clan) Artificers School
Benefit: +1 Void
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Calligraphy, Meditation, Shintao, Artificing,
Weaponsmith, Armorer, +1 High or Bugei skill
Techniques
Artificers make magical items. Each rank allows the
artificer to bestow a new spell or ability into an item.
For example, a rank 1 artificer can put a single
spell/ability into an item while a rank 3 artificer can
place 3 spells/abilities into an item.
Artificers carry spell scrolls like normal shugenja, but
they are incapable of casting them. They instead
emplace them into the items they create.
Outfit
(All considered to be average quality) Player chooses
one of them to be of fine quality: Kimono, travelling
pack, scroll satchel, wakizashi, tanto, 3 koku.
Chiba Family (Asako Vassals)
By: JCMarshall
The noble Chiba is the one family that is accepted
anywhere and everywhere within the Emerald Empire.
The White Phoenix rising from the flames mon of the
family is perhaps the most widely known and
recognised as well.
Benefit: +1 Awareness
Chiba (Phoenix Clan) Healers School
Benefit: +1 Perception
Beginning Honor: 3 + 5 boxes
Skills
Calligraphy, Investigation, Medicine, Lore: Disease,
Herbalism, +2 high skills
Techniques
The Healers of the Chiba family are known for their
ability to heal and diagnose almost anything. The
Chiba healer may add a free raise to all skills that deal
with the medical profession for each school rank that
his has.
Outfit
(All considered to be average quality) Player chooses
one of them to be of fine quality: Kimono, travelling
pack, wakizashi, tanto, 5 koku, medical bag and
supplies
Koike Family (Shiba Vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
The Koike learn to observe their surroundings, their
enemies, and themselves. They are wary, cautious
warriors. Less contemplative than the Shiba, they
spend much time patrolling the lands of the Phoenix.
Benefit: +1 Perception
Koike (Phoenix Clan) Bushi School
Koike trained bushi roam the back-county of the
Phoenix provinces hunting bakemono and bandit alike.
They sometimes spend weeks isolated and alone in the
wilderness.
Benefit: +1 Stamina
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Archery, Defense, Hunting, Kenjutsu,
Mountaineering, Naginata, and Shintao
Techniques
Rank 1: Those Who Stand Alone
The Koike bushi must remain supremely alert, for no
one else guards their backs. For purposes of
determining surprise the bushi’s Air Ring is considered
one higher. The bushi is equally alert to sudden danger
awake or asleep.
Rank 2: Unfettered Attack
The bushi’s has learned to face those that rely on
numbers to succeed. If the bushi has attacks declared
on her by two or more opponents, she may make two
attacks per round. However, she may not attack the
same opponent twice per round. The attacks must be
directed against two different opponents, one of whom
must be attacking her.
Rank 3: One with the World
The bushi’s spirit blends seamlessly into the chi of the
world. She no longer leaves tracks of any kind and is
rarely recalled by anyone who has not directly
interacted with or deliberately watched her.
Outfit
(All items of average quality except the travelling
pack) Katana, Wakizashi, Naginata, Bow, 20 Arrows
of any type(s), Light Armor, Fine travelling pack,
Heavy Kimono, and 1 Koku
Yumeno Family (Asako Vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
The Yumeno are poets, artists, and musicians. They are
welcome guests at the long winter courts of the
Phoenix lands.
Benefit: +1 Awareness
Yumeno (Phoenix Clan) Kodo School
This school is an artisan school. Because of its
usefulness, drummers are often found on the
battlefield. The maya of this school are very fast. Once
the drummer has begun the effects occur in nine
rounds minus the drummer’s school rank. None of
these maya may be held. Drumming is a demanding
art. A drummer may only perform for a number of
minutes equal to his stamina x school rank, before
resting for a third of that time.
Benefit: +1 Stamina
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Athletics, Defense, Music (Drums) 2, Shintao, Tessen
and pick one high skill
Techniques
Rank 1: Lure of the Heart
The music of the heartbeat commands the attention of
the spirits. This can make it very difficult for shugenja
to call upon the kami. By making a Void + Music roll
with a TN of 20, the drummer may increase the TN of
all spellcasting in his area by 5. For every two raises
the drummer makes the TN is increased by an
additional 5.
Rank 2: Filling the Heart
The sound of the drums can fill a warrior’s spirit with
steel. While drumming, all friendly samurai who can
hear the sound automatically succeed on any fear
check and may keep one extra die on one roll per
round.
Rank 3: Beating the Heart
The Drummer may use the sounds of his drums to
drive evil spirits away. Once the drumming takes
effect, any creature with the Shadowlands taint, and
any malevolent spirits are driven from the area until
the drumming stops. The radius of this effect is 10
yards per point of void the drummer has.
Outfit:
(All items are of average quality) Wakizashi, Tessen, 2
Drums, Drumsticks, Kimono, Travelling pack, 4 koku.
Asako Magistrate School
Benefit: +1 Perception
Beginning Honor: 2, plus 5 boxes
Skills
History, Investigation, Law, Maho Lore, Meditation,
Shintao, and Shugenja Lore
Techniques
Rank 1: On the Banks of the River
The magistrate has developed a sense for the flow of
magic in the world. By briefly (two rounds) touching a
person or item and concentrating completely, the
magistrate may make a Perception + Meditation roll
vs. a TN of 25 to determine if the target is under the
effects of a spell. Nemuranai may be detected with this
method with a TN of 30. Raises grant additional
knowledge.
Rank 2: Calm as the Waters
At this rank the magistrate masters the calm demeanor
and develops the serene presence of the true Asako
magistrate. The character automatically recovers all of
his void points with the return of Amaterasu at dawn
each day.
Rank 3: The Celestial Pattern
The magistrate has worked to hone his understanding
of the world. He may re-roll any Intelligence or Lore
skill roll, keeping the higher result. This technique
may be used a number of times per day equal to the
magistrate's Void ring (but only once on any single
roll).
Rank 4: Tracing the Flow
Each time the Magistrate clearly sees the entire
successful casting of a spell he may spend a void point
to attempt to "understand" the spell. Roll Void +
Shugenja Lore with the same TN as the spell
(including any raises). Void points may not be spent
on this roll. Each success gives the character a "clue"
about that spell. When the magistrate has gathered a
number of "clues" equal to the spell's mastery level he
may create a scroll of that spell.
Rank 5: In the Hidden Heart
By briefly questioning a character (five minutes per
school rank of the subject) and making a contested roll
of Void + Investigation vs. the target's Void the
inquisitor can discover the guilt or innocence of the
target. The questions need not relate to the crime as the
magistrate is examining the soul, not the answers.
Outfit
(One item is of fine quality, the rest are considered to
be of average quality):Katana, Wakazashi, Jitte, Scroll
case, Traveling Pack, 2 Kimonos,
5 Koku.
Shiba Family
Shiba Elemental Adept School
By: Clifford Horowitz
Benefit: +1 Perception
Beginning Honor: 2 plus 5 boxes
Skills: Archery, Kenjutsu, Defense, Athletics,
Meditation, Shintao, Tea Ceremony
Techniques
Rank 1: The Earth Forms a Mountain…
The adept first learns to focus on the hard substance of
his body. He concentrates on the earth of his form and
targets it in his training. Mental and spiritual exercises
make it pure while physical regiment makes it strong.
He treats his earth as one higher when determining
wounds. By spending a void point he may focus the
earth within him to weigh down a strike, making it
harder and more steady, thus adding his earth to the
strike and damage rolls for one round.
Rank 2: …That Is Worn Down By the River…
Now the adept moves from the sold to the fluid parts of
his substance. Having gained a solid foundation from
his previous training, he now learns to tear it down and
move. But this particular motion is not the fleeting
dance of the hummingbird. It is the motion of power.
Whenever making a roll to move past something, be it
actively looking for a hiding person or breaking
through an opponent's armor, the bushi may re roll any
dice that roll under his school rank. He may do this a
number of times equal to his water + school rank. With
a void point the bushi may add his water ring to the
strike and damage rolls for a single round.
Rank 3: …To Be Consumed In Fire…
Having mastered the material, the adept now moves to
the less tangible. He learns to harness the sheer energy
that allows movement of both mind and body. This
mastery gives the bushi two actions every round,
which may be used as attacks or whatever else the
samurai desires. With a void he may also add his fire
ring to strike and damage rolls.
Rank 4: … And Rise As Mist …
The adept now moves into developing the element that
is there and yet not, the invisible substance that is only
seen in its effects, only felt in its actions. The bushi
learns to be as swift and fleeting as air, invisible and
untouchable until he sweeps in like the gale. A number
of times per day equal to his air + school rank he may
add his school rank to his reflexes before calculating
his TN to be hit. This lasts for one round. With a void
point he may translate his speed into his attacks,
adding his air ring to his hit and damage totals.

Rank 5: … Which Fades to Nothing.

Having mastered the elements of being, the adept is
now ready for the final step. He embraces the nothing
that binds them all. He lets all that he has learned fade
into the background of the encompassing void. He may
now spend any number of void points he wishes on a
single action. But while this connection with the void
allows him to tap it better than most, it also allows him
to draw from it better as well. He may reap the benefits
of meditation in half the time, and gains two void
points back when in a proper tea ceremony. In combat
he may use the "five ring strike" which allows him to
add the sum of his five rings to his attacks and damage
for a round. However, this costly strike costs five void
points to activate.

Outfit
As the Shiba Bushi school.
 SCORPION
Iioka Family (Shosuro
vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
The slim and frail looking
members of this minor scorpion family rely more on
words than blows. Those that do take up the sword
must respect their own weaknesses before mastering
the weaknesses of others.
Benefit: +1 Agility
Iioka (Scorpion Clan) Bushi School
Benefit: +1 Intelligence
Beginning Honor: 1 + 5 boxes
Penalty: Students of this school may not use any of
their techniques while wearing armor
Skills
Archery, Dance, Defense, Kenjutsu, Lore (bushi
schools), Oration, and pick one low skill
Techniques
Rank 1: The Way of Grace
The bushi learns to control his body and weapons with
subtlety rather than muscle. When rolling damage for
any weapon he has a skill of 3 or better with the
character may roll Agility + Damage Rating instead of
Strength + DR. The Character also adds his Fire Ring
to initiative rolls.
Rank 2: Learning to Learn
At this rank the Bushi is expected to begin mastering a
variety of weapons. This constant training teaches the
bushi the most important lesson: how to learn. The
experience point cost to improve any bugei skill the
character has (already at rank 1) is reduced by one
point.
Rank 3: My Enemy's Weakness
At this rank the bushi has learned to counter or evade
the multiple-attacks-per-round techniques of other
schools. No single opponent may make more than one
attack per round on the bushi. If an opponent's second
(or third) attack is directed against the bushi it is lost
without effect. This technique may never be used in
combination with a technique that grants multiple
attacks.
Your Outfit
(All considered to be average quality) katana,
wakizashi, bow, 20 arrows of any type, light armor,
travelling pack, any 1 weapon, kimono, 2 koku.
Katokawa Family (Shosuro Vassals)
The Katokawa are known for their willingness to learn
all there is to know about the courts and all that takes
place within them.
Benefit: +1 Perception
Katoaka (Scorpion Clan) School of Intrigue
Disadvantage: Not Samurai. May purchase samurai
for 2 CP points.
Advantage: Quick may be purchased for 2 CPs.
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 1 + 5 boxes
Skills
Stealth, Poison, Sincerity, Herbalism, Defence, any 2
Bugei, High or low skills
Techniques
Rank 1: Distraction of the Scorpion
The Katokawa can make a test of Awareness + rank vs.
a TN of the higher of (Opponents Willpower or rank)
X 5. If successful the target is distracted and may not
spend any Void and any Raises will increase the TN by
10 (not 5). This is treated as Full Defence for the
Katokawa.
Rank 2: The Taunt
The Katokawa can make a test of (Awareness + rank)
vs. a TN of the higher of Opponents Willpower or
Honor X 5, +10 if not already in combat. If successful
the target is enraged by the words of the Katokawa.
He must attack, and his next attack must be a Full
Attack. If done in combat, this is treated as Full
Defence for the Katokawa.
Rank 3: Master of Court
The Katokawa is a master of honor distraction. With a
successful Sincerity test, the Katokawa may redirect
any honor loss to another target, by weaving a grand
tale, which the target is wise enough to not try to
refute. The difficulty is equal to (Honor of the new
target + Honor of governing body) X 5. Example
Bayushi Kachiko is trying to pass the blame for a
kidnapping on the Dragons (not the Scorpion). Her
TN is 2 (honor of Dragon Bushi) + 3 (Honor of
Mirumoto Daini) X 5.
Outfit
Travelling Pack, Kimono, 2 weapons or 1 plus Daisho
if samurai, 2 types of poison (make up before play), 5
Koku.

Kochako Family (Shosuro Vassals)
By: Scott Gearin
The slim and frail looking members of this minor
scorpion family rely more on words than blows. Those
that do take up the sword must respect their own
weaknesses before mastering the weaknesses of others.
Benefit: +1 Agility
Kochako (Scorpion Clan) Bushi School
Benefit: +1 Intelligence
Beginning Honor: 1 + 5 boxes
Penalty: Students of this school may not use any of
their techniques while wearing armor
Skills
Archery, Dance, Defense, Kenjutsu, Lore (bushi
schools), Oration, and pick one low skill
Techniques
Rank 1: The Way of Grace
The bushi learns to control his body and weapons with
subtlety rather than muscle. When rolling damage for
any weapon he has a skill of 3 or better with the
character may roll Agility + Damage Rating instead of
Strength + DR. While so armed, the Scorpion also adds
his Fire Ring to initiative rolls.
Rank 2: Learning to Learn
At this rank the Bushi is expected to begin mastering a
variety of weapons. This constant training teaches the
bushi the most important lesson: how to learn. The
experience point cost to improve any bugei skill the
character has (already at rank 1 or better) is reduced by
one point.
Rank 3: My Enemy's Weakness
At this rank the bushi has learned to counter or evade
the multiple-attacks-per-round techniques of other
schools. No single opponent may make more than one
attack per round on the bushi. If an opponent directs a
second attack against the bushi it is lost without effect.
This technique may never be used in combination with
a technique that grants multiple attacks.
Outfit
(All considered to be average quality) Katana,
wakizashi, bow, 20 arrows of any type, light armor,
travelling pack, any 1 weapon, kimono, 2 koku.
The Shosuro
Shosuro (Scorpion Clan) Assassin School
By: Scott Gaerin
Benefit: +1 Perception
Beginning Honor: 1 + 5 boxes
Skills
Acting, Conversation or Seduction, Herbalism,
Investigation, Poison, Sleight of Hand, Stealth
Techniques
Rank 1: The Underhand
The assassin’s first task is to be the eyes and ears of
the Emperor. To see and deal with those threats others
will not. The Scorpion receives a free raise when using
any low skill.
Rank 2: Sting not the Scorpion
At this rank the assassin has worked diligently to build
up a tolerance for the tools of his craft. He gets to pick
one specific poison that he is immune to. If the poison
is particularly strong it may make him dizzy or
nauseous, but nothing like what it should do. At each
rank here after the character may pick another poison
to which he becomes immune.
Rank 3: I Can Swim
The assassin is the master of unseen skills and hidden
advantages. Once per adventure the assassin may
“reveal” a skill he possess. He may spend un-spent
experience points to increase a skill one rank. This
may also be used to purchase a new skill at rank 1. Use
of this technique does not require an action and may be
done at any time.
Rank 4: My Only Virtue
The loyalty of the Scorpion is a thing few can fathom.
Even fewer recognize its intensity. While performing a
task for his lord (or on behalf of those on his loyalty
list) the Assassin may make a test of honor using his
loyalty (his honor + 2) with a TN of 5 x the number of
wound ranks he has filled. If the test succeeds he may
ignore all wounds (even death) for a number of rounds
equal to twice his loyalty rank. This may be done only
once per day.
Rank 5: “Simplify, Simplify, Simplify”
At this rank the assassin has achieved the greatest
mastery in the craft of poisons. He no longer needs to
roll to succeed when using the poison or herbalism
skills. The character is entitled to any free raises, but
may not make raises while using this technique. If the
assassin wishes to raise he must roll.
Outfit
(All considered to be average quality) Kimono,
Katana, Wakizashi, Travelling pack, equipment, 3
Koku
Hitaki Family (ShosuroVassals)
The Hitaki family are the bodyguards of the Scorpion
courtiers, and use their odd abilities to sniff out
poisons in the court. The family began when it's
progenitor, Shoshuro Hitaki(then of the Shoshuro
School) saved the Emperor from being poisoned by
smelling a drop of potent poison on the lip of his sake
cup.
"Legends tell of Shoshuro Hitaki, who saved the
Emperor Hantei XV by smelling a single drop of
Blood Lotus poison on his Sake cup, even though he
sat at the end of the table. After such heroism, it was
said that he set at the left of that Emperor for the rest of
his days."
Benefit: +1 Perception
Hitaki Poisoner Schools
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 0 + 5 boxes
Skills
Poison 2, Defense, Stealth, Plus two Ninjutsu
Techniques
Rank 1: Scent of the familiar venom
Due to almost supernatural familiarity to poison, the
Bodyguard is able to detect poison on a successful
poison+perception roll, up to 5 feet away/school rank.
This ability ignores amount of dose, and can even
detect poisons in a sealed vial. This is not mereily a
scent thing, it is a combination of all senses, and
perhaps a supernatural sense to poison.
Rank 2: Swimming in poisoned waters
Each time a particular poison is encountered by the
Bodyguard, he becomes immune to it if he is
successful in his saving roll (Earth+school at a TN of
25). For each failed attempt at immunity, that does not
lead to death, the Bodyguard gains one free raise, to be
used at the next attempt at immunity for that poison
type only. This ability is often used so the guard may
taste the food of his charge for poisons.
Rank 3: The secret sting of the Scorpion
At this rank the Hitaki master is trained in the use of
concealed needles to poison opponents in the heat of
battle, as well as a variety of hemotoxins that can be
used to best result during the extertion of combat. If
the bodyguard's charge is attacked , and the guard has
declared a full defense as his action for the round, he
may make a poison+agility roll with a TN equal to the
attacking bushi's TN to be hit. If successful, the
attaclomg Bushi is poisoned (Provided the poison
master has a vial of poison available). Because of his
concentration elsewhere, when this technique is used,
the Bodyguard loses the normal bonus for full defense.
Outfit
(All considered to be average quality)
Kimono, Katana, Wakizashi, Travelling pack,
equipment (includes poison ring)
Bayushi Duelling School
(Note this is inspired by Shiba Toma-san’s "Multiple
styles within Existing schools" e-mail a few days back.
Thanks!)
While not their main forte, the Bayushi bushi have
always been rather respected duellists, known for their
speed and cunning. They are the only non-Crane clan
that makes iaijutsu a mandatory starting skill. (to the
best of my knowledge, correct me if I’m wrong please)
Over the years there have been a growing number of
Bayushi Bushi who have dedicated an increasing
amount of their time away from their manipulations
and into the beauty of the one strike.
This has resulted in a sub-style of the main bushi
techniques; there are likely only two or three bushi in
the whole of Rokugan who have mastered the entire
school, there are around fourty bushi between the first
and fourth ranks spread out all over Rokugan. This,
added to the style’s relatively young age (Bayushi
Tajima, the founder of the sub-style, died a mere fourty
years ago), and lack of a formal dojo, has prevented it
from being a real force to reckon with, and no threat to
the Kakita Duelling Academy.
Benefit: +1 Reflexes
Beginning Honor: 1, plus 7 boxes
Skills
Archery, Defense, Iaijutsu, Kenjutsu, Sincerity, Any
Merchant or Low skill, Any Bugei or Low skill.
Techniques
Rank 1: As per Bayushi Bushi
Rank 2: As per Bayushi Bushi
Rank 3: Mask the blade
Scorpion duellists at this rank adapt their Rank 2 to
techniques to the iaijutsu duel. The mechanics are
different, however:
In duels, after the awareness rolls and before the actual
raising begins, they may make an Agility+Sleight of
Hand roll against the opponent's Perception x 5. If
successful, the base TN to be hit for the duellist is
increased by how much the roll was made by, with a
minimum of 5. The TN for the opponent remains 5.
This may only be done once per duel, although it does
not count as an action, attack, or raise. Raises can't be
made on this roll.

In melee combat, they learn the saya-and-katana

techniques that makes it hard to predict where the
attack is coming from, since they use the saya to
obstruct the opponent's view of the katana.

They may make an Agility+Sleight of Hand roll

against the opponent's Perception x 5. If they succeed
then the opponent's TN to be hit (in general melee) is
reduced by 5, and 5 more for each raise on the roll.
This may only be done once per round, although it
does not count as an action or attack.

(This rank is a bit too powerful for a rank 3, in my

opinion, but since it reduces the effectiveness of Rank
2, that's ok)

Rank 4: As per Bayushi Bushi

Rank 5: Deceive with your soul

Good liars lie with their eyes. Excellent liars lie with
their bodies. But a Bushi of this rank can lie with their
souls, making the opposition think they have the
advantage when they don't. When in an Iaijutsu duel,
after the awareness rolls, and before the actual raising,
the duellist can make an Void+ Iaijutsu roll against his
opponent's Iaijutsu skill x 5. If he succeeds then he gets
to strike first in the coming duel if he called the strike.
If the opponent called the strike first, then he gets to
keep an additional die when rolling to hit and damage.

This also applies to melee combat. The bushi may roll

and keep an extra die when rolling to hit and damage
on any opponent who has declared an attack on him
this turn.

UNICORN
Horiuchi Family (Iuchi
Vassals)
By: JCMarshall & Scott Gearin
A small family within the
Unicorn, it is unlikely to get any
bigger in the foreseeable future as its Daimyo has yet
to show any sign of wanting to marry. There are many
stalwart souls who have asked to join her family and
honor her name. Most Horiuchi are bushi though a
small group of shugenja has also arisen.
Benefit: +1 Stamina
Horiuchi (Unicorn Clan) Bushi School
Benefit: +1 Stamina
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Skills
Archery (Based on Agility rather than Reflexes),
Defence, Kenjutsu, Horsemanship, +1 High skill, +2
High or Bugei skills
Techniques
Rank 1: Strength of the Unicorn
The bushi has learned how to use the fact that his is
on horseback to his advantage when attacking and as
such, may add his Horsemanship skill to all damage
rolls when on horseback.
Rank 2: Dangerous even Un-horsed
The bushi become proficient enough with horse based
weapons that he can use them effectively off the horse
as well as on a horse. This does mean that the bushi
could feasibly take a lance and use it while on the
ground.
Rank 3: Horse and Rider as One
The bushi may attack twice per round as long as on
horseback.
Outfit
(All considered to be fine quality)Katana, wakizashi,
bow, 20 arrows or any type, light armor, helm,
travelling pack, steed, kimono, any 2 weapons, 8 koku
Horiuchi (Unicorn Clan) Shugenja School
The followers of Horiuchi have committed themselves
to the mastery of the meishodo form of magic. They
have at long last made a breakthrough in shaping the
energies released be speaking the words of creation.
They have discovered a secret way of singing the
words that modulates the effect.
Benefit: +1 Perception
Beginning Honor: 2 + 5 boxes
Penalty: The Horiuchi school only has three ranks.
The student may not advance beyond this limit. As
practitioners of meishodo, they may not learn Sense,
Commune, or Summon spells, and all normal spells
have their TN increased by 5.
Skills
Horiuchi shugenja may make one normal raise while
using meishodo.
Calligraphy, Craft (jewellery), Herbalism,
Horsemanship, Meditation, Singing, and pick one high
skill
Beginning Spells
3 Water meishodo, 2 Fire meishodo, 1 Earth meishodo,
and 2 Water spells.
Outfit
Same as Iuchi Shugenja (pg. 91)
Nozara Family (Shinjo Vassals)
By: JCMarshall
The Nozara are the only family within the Unicorn
clan to actually want to live at the courts of the other
clans and deal with them on a permanent basis. Most
Nozara are considered strange because they seem to
prefer the indoors to the outdoors and the stale air of a
grand hall rather than the air rushing past them as they
ride on the open plains.
Benefit: +1 Awareness
Nozara (Unicorn Clan) Courtier School
Benefit: +1 Willpower
Beginning Honor: 2, plus 5 boxes
Skills
Courtier, Etiquette, Law, Horsemanship, Archery + 2
High/Bugei Skills
Techniques
Rank 1: One Voice filled with Anger
The Courtier uses the rage within himself to further
his goals of speaking. The Courtier may add a number
of free raises to his courtier skills equal to his Fire
Ring.
Rank 2: One Voice, Louder than any Other
The Courtier learns how to pitch his voice so that
even if he speaks in a calm tone, it will carry to all
listening. This is especially nasty when he raises his
voice. When Courtier uses this technique, all within
normal hearing will immediately hear him. There is no
way not too. This is useful when blaming someone of
something unhonorable and you want to make sure all
know it, even if it sounds like only the person you're
talking to is meant to hear it.

Rank 3: One Voice, One Word

The Courtier has learned how to encourage others to
his way of speaking. When he speaks, all that listen
must make a Simple Willpower Test at TN 15 not to
see the Courtiers point and agree with him. This TN
grows to 20 if the person is on the side of the
argument, and to 25 if the person actually started off
agreeing with the Courtier.

Outfit
(All considered to be of average quality) 2 Kimonos,
travelling pack, steed, tanto, 4 koku.