Nippon Renjai General Info - start reading here!

=== THE NIPPON RENJAI ===

Kumicho (Leader): Blue Myanamotu
Oyabun (Founder, "Clan Father"): Ganon Verstandig
Wakagashira (First Lieutenant): Fiore Galtier and Hideyoshi Yoshikawa
Shateigashira (Second Lieutenant): Yumi Eourres and Sean88 Falworth

Contact Blue Myanamotu, Ganon Verstandig, Fiore Galtier, or Hideyoshi Yoshikawa if you are interested in this clan.

=== OOC Explanation ===

The Nippon Renjai is different from the other clans of Nippon.  It is a clan for the rugged; those with noble souls that just happen to be a little rough around the edges.  The clan focuses on both combat and intense roleplay, blending elements of honor, enigma and  mystique.  If you're looking for roleplay and want the chance to show your mustard, a place in the Nippon Renjai may be waiting for you!

The Renjai are a Samurai clan, and operate as one in the open.  The clan has a family feel to it, and is intended to be very close-knit.  We work hard to incorporate a heavy roleplay element into our clan, in addition to the combat elements, and in-character clan events and roleplay classes hosted by the Renjai leaders are not uncommon.

In RP, the Renjai also has a darker side to their clan and it is not uncommon for them to be involved in illegal activities.  This is why they are one of the wealthiest clans and use that wealth for personal gain an standing in Nippon politics.  As a Renjai RPer, one is free to choose whether they would like to be involved in the more noble side of the clan, or in it's darker shadow. 

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Terms:

Renjai - Rangers.  Effective woodland guerilla fighters who excel with melee and ranged weapons.

Renjaa - Singular of Renjai; a ranger.

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Clan Ranking:
Kumicho - Clan Leader
Blue Myanamotu

Oyabun - Clan Father
Ganon Verstandig

Wakagashira - First Lieutenant
Fiore Galtier

Shateigashira - Second Lieutenant
Hideyoshi Yoshikawa

Renjaa Samurai and Sensei - Loyal soldiers to the clan and emperor.  This elite class of warior is trained in the art of bushido, kobujitsu and discipline.  They value honor and duty above all else.

Shatei - Elder Brother.  Kyodai become Shatei when they have proven there loyalty to the clan

Kyodai - Little Brother.  All new Renjai start at this rank.

Renjai move up in rank through proven acts of loyalty to the clan.  This may be in the form of an RP mission, fighting in tournaments, or recruiting new members to the clan.  Members may discuss with the Renjai officers about plans to be promoted, or they can speak directly with the kumicho.

=== In-Depth IC Background ===

The Nippon Renjai is all that remains of one of Nippon's oldest and longest-standing Samurai clans.  The original clan was founded centuries ago by a nomadic tribe that offered its services in guerilla warfare to the Emperor of Nippon.  They were christened Renjai, which means "rangers", because of their skills as trackers, woodsmen, and fighters at close and long range.  They led Nippon to many victories over the years, but as they established themselves, they drew the eyes of other clans.  The last member of the original tribe died over two hundred years ago, and the clan disappeared, but for its clan house.

Then, roughly sixty years ago, a tiger Hengeyokai named Ganon Verstandig came from the Makai forest to seek refuge in Nippon.  He took residence in the old and dilapidated clan house, where he found documents left behind by the Renjai.  It was not long before Ganon established himself as the founder of a new Renjai clan, and swiftly he began to build the clan back up to and beyond its former glory, taking once more the proud name of Renjai.

The Renjai now are known to be a formidable Samurai clan, who continue to use the land to their advantage and outmaneuver their enemies on the battlefield.  There are also rumors that the clan is involved in less than legal activities, but these are unconfirmed.

After Ganon stepped down to retire and travel abroad, his protege Blue Myanamotu took over as clan leader (kumicho).  As both the Shogun Shay Davieu's younger sister and Renjai kumicho, Blue has managed to increase the clan's political standing with the emperor as well as it's incredible fighting power with her highly skilled and trained warriors. 

Renjai's might is because of its Wakagashira, Fiore Galtier.  Fiore, also known as the Fang of Renjaa, is undoubtedly one of the finest fighters in Nippon.  She trains the Renjai, regardless of ability, so that they stand as the Emperor's elite fighting force.

Hideyoshi Yoshikawa quickly rose through the ranks and now serves as Renjai's Shateigashiria.  His loyalty as the kumicho's personal guard, hard work and loyalty to the clan embodies the Renjai samurai spirit.  Hideyoshi is a talented fighter and sensei.  He keeps the records on Renjai members and is always there to befried new students. 

The recent return of the Oyabun, Ganon Verstandig, shocked many and called the leadership of the clan into question, but he has declared that he has no intent to take back leadership from Blue, and will act as an advisor and consultant.  Ganon personally leads the Renjai in battle against invaders.  He also helps Fiore train the Renjai and represents the clan in the council of magistrates.

The Renjai are also protected by Ryuu, a large dragon that is sworn and bound to the kumicho Blue.  As Shugosha, Ryuu also counsels Blue in clan affairs because of his immense wisdom and knowledge.