AD&D - OA1 - Swords of the Daimyo (1e) (lvl 1)

Aside from its fishing industry, this vil- 0512 The castle workers have built a small vil-
lage of 348 people (93 buildings) has two lage around the base of the hill where the
other important features. First, it is the The Shrine of the War God or Monage castle stands. Currently there are 590
managerial headquarters of the Niwa Yukate’s Shrine: Located alongside the workers at the site. The village (called
estate it stands on. Maintaining a house road, this shrine is dedicated to the God of Atarashi-mura) has 80 buildings, mostly
here is Niwa Sutai (samurai, 7th level), War. The shrine is only a single small simple minka. Among the workers there
nephew of Niwa Hirotada and great-great- building—a hall with a statue of the God of are a number of skilled artisans—mostly
grandson of Niwa Ozuchi, who saved the War inside. There is no one minding the carpenters and stonemasons. The con-
charters of the Niwa line. Niwa Sutai has shrine, but the local peasants take respon- struction is supervised by the commander
four samurai and 10 bushi under his com- sibility for keeping it clean and repaired. of the castle, Hori Chomin (samurai, 14th
mand. level), brother to the head of the Hori clan.
The shrine is built on the site of the Bat- Under his command are 20 samurai and
As a sign of respect to Sutai’s ancestor tle of Kurisammyaku during the Tennu 100 bushi (who also double as laborers).
and his rank within the family, Sutai also War. This war, fought between the forces
has command of two warships. The natu- of the Hojo family and the followers of the 0515
ral harbor and the location of Kabe at the emperor, established the power of the
mouth of Kobawan make this village a Hojo as shoguns of Kozakura. The battle Gobo Village: This sleepy little village
strategic naval position. Each ship is occured when the Hojo troops forced the of 549 (78 buildings) is noted for the
manned by 10 sailors and 15 bushi (acting passage out of the Kurisammyku to the exceptionally fine landscape in which it is
as marines). Generally one ship is con- east and entered the plain. There they set. Consequently the town is popular with
stantly on patrol, protecting shipping from were met by the arrayed troops of the travelers, poets, artists, and nobles. The
pirate attacks while the other remains in Monage and Tsu clans, supporters of the village maintains a fine inn and services
port. Each ship is commanded by a 4th- imperial cause. for these visitors. In addition, the village
level samurai captain. has a mill and active fishing industry.
In the battle, the imperial forces were
While all this attention to their village soundly defeated. The Monage clan was The village is headquarters and occa-
ensures their safety from the normal dan- destroyed and its properties confiscated. sional home of the samurai Fukada Shiro
gers of bandits, the people of Kabe are still The Tsu clan suffered severely, but sur- (9th level), who holds the shoen surround-
displeased with their lot. They are vived the battle. The shrine was built to ing the village. Fukada holds the title to the
required to support not only Niwa Sutai honor the victory of the Hojo, but in time property and directly manages affairs, but
and his samurai, but also the seamen and the true legendary hero of the battle has he is often called to the castle of the Hiro
bushi under his command. This greatly become Monage Yukate, the defeated family. When he is gone, his son Takauji
strains their resources and so, unlike most general. Although crushed, beaten, and handles the business of the shoen. The
other fishing villages, the people here are finally forced to his ultimate end, his tragic Fukada family, a minor family allied with
always on the brink of abject poverty. and sad fate has raised him to the position the Hiro, has 36 samurai and 60 bushi
of a great and legendary hero in the popu- available at its disposal.
0511 lar imagination. Many stories, plays, and
songs have been composed about his life 0519
Imperial Posthouse: This posthouse, and exploits, particularly his tragic end.
like nearly all others, is located in a small The shrine is now a popular stopping Miki Village: This large fishing village of
mura of 50 hyakusho. The posthouse itself place for travelers, who pray for protection 1398 people has grown steadily through
consists of a main building, stables, and from bandits before entering the moun- the years. As the Tara-gawa becomes
godown surrounded by a walled com- tains. more silted over and treacherous to navi-
pound. The posthouse provides fresh gate, more and more shipping is diverted
mounts and riders for official messengers 0514 to Miki. From here it is transported
and shelter for important travelers. upstream by barges to the Great Road and
Atarashijo: Located at the southern then shipped overland throughout the
This posthouse, maintained by funds entrance to the pass between the plain province. Naturally goods are also being
from the shugo-daimyo, is located in the and Nora-ko is the outpost known as sent downstream to load on the empty
heart of an imperial shoen and has been Atarashijo (New Castle). The structure is a ships.
caught up in the struggle for power simple three-story tower surrounded by
between the two factions. The posthouse earthworks. The work was begun only two Thus merchants formerly based only in
is commanded by Watanabe Kanzo years ago and is still underway on the Tamanokuni are finding it expedient to
(samurai, 12th level), a man who has dem- outer walls and buildings. The castle is maintain warehouses in Miki. Currently
onstrated his strong loyalty to the Niwa being built in response to increased bandit there are 347 buildings in the village,
cause. Under his command are 20 samu- activity in the area. Without the castle as a including five major warehouses. Two of
rai and 100 bushi. This is far more than base of operations, the shugo-daimyo these belong to merchants of Tamano-
needed to run the posthouse. The shugo- could not maintain a force in the mountain- kuni, another two are the property of a
daimyo has used the posthouse as an ous country long enough to hunt down and merchant monopoly from the imperial cap-
excuse to station a large force within the destroy the bandits. In addition, the fin- itol, and the last is owned by a shipping
boundaries of this imperial shoen. ished tower will control movement through concern based at the bakufu (shogunal
the pass, increasing the shugo-daimyo’s headquarters). Other buildings of impor-
grip over the province. tance within Miki include the salt-making

17

house, two sake breweries, a temple of the More serious is the gradual silting-up of The Ebi gang has recently been getting
Toro-dai school, another of the Konjo the Tara-gawa’s delta. The channels competition from the Hashi gang. This
school, and a shrine to the Lord of the Sea. downstream of Tamanokuni have become group set up its operations about three
Most importantly, the headquarters of the narrower and narrower over the years, years ago. Initially very small, it has
Niwa shoen is just outside the village. making it difficult for sea-going vessels to attracted the rougher and more violent
reach the port. Several attempts have types. The Hashi run several gambling
Miki is thus quite a bustling village. The been made to dredge portions of the chan- operations, all but one being quite low
growth has left the jito of the shoen some- nel, but the shugo-daimyo and the prov- class. The main source of Hashi income
what unprepared. This jito, Mushakoji ince lack the resources for a full-fledged
Nariakira (samurai, 8th level), normally engineering effort. One of the goals of the comes from shaking down the local mer-
has at his disposal 10 samurai and 30 current shugo-daimyo is to obtain the sho- chants and shippers. The Hashi normally
bushi, barely enough to manage the rest gunal financing needed for the task, with- demand payments from every ship that
of the shoen. Because of the growth of out giving too much to the shogun in arrives in the port. While not excessive, if
Miki, he has recruited a police force of 15 return. these payments are refused, the Hashi will
bushi to patrol the village. These men are try to prevent the unloading (or loading) of
not enough to oversee a population of Bridge District: This district, located on any shipment. Their tactics are simple and
1300. Thus most of the peacekeeping the waterfront, is the main business center violent—beating sailors, destroying
duties have fallen upon a newly arrived of the town. It consists of four wards, each goods, and terrorizing stevedores. The
kumi (a yakuza family). These fellows, 37 containing between eight and 18 blocks. Ebi gang has met the Hashi several times
strong, have set themselves up as the Branching off the Tara-gawa are numer- in fierce battles on the waterfront. Things
local law and order. Their oyabun is known ous canals built to allow barges access to must soon come to a head, for only one of
only as Miki-san (yakuza, 12th level). They the various warehouses of the shipping
currently aid the peasants, protecting merchants. The district gets its name from the two gangs can survive.
them from outsiders, seamen, and greedy the high-arched wooden bridges that span Temple District: This district, composed
merchants—for a price, of course. They these canals. During the daytime this dis-
also run a small gambling house that trict is bustling with activity as cargoes are of two six-block wards, is centered around
caters mainly to seamen and visiting mer- loaded and unloaded from ships. Every 2d the First Shrine of Miyama, which sits on a
chants, although a few samurai have been and 7th day (of a 10-day cycle) is market small rise overlooking the river. The First
known to slip down for a game. So far day when the open markets are set up to Shrine is also known as the Emperor’s
there have been only a few confrontations sell goods. Shrine, since it is dedicated to the imperial
between the police and the kumi. These cult. It is staffed by 20 shukenja and also
have ended in unofficial agreements Within the Bridge District are two maintains a small monastery that trains
between the two groups. yakuza kumi, vying with each other for monks and shukenja in the beliefs of the
control. The larger of these kumi is shrine.
0521 headed by the oyabun Ebi (yakuza, 19th
level) and has has 340 members. The There is also a major temple and mon-
Tamanokuni: Tamanokuni is the largest other kumi is headed by the oyabun Musu- astery of the Toro-dai school which is the
town of Miyama and the capital of the kosan no Hashi (yakuza, 15th level). There provincial temple of the school in Miyama.
province. It contains the local residence of are 286 yakuza in his organization. From here they supervise the manage-
the Niwa family, the site of the First Shrine ment of all their shoen. The monastery
of Miyama, and the Provincial Temple of Ebi’s organization has been operating trains monks of the Toro-dai school. The
the Kanchai school. It is also the major in the town for several decades. They majority of the pupils come from the
shipping port on the southern coast of the derive a lot of their profit from several hyakusho classes. There are also temples
province. gambling houses. Most of these are very of the Kanchai and Konjo schools. The
close to the docks and attract many sailors former is popular with the merchant ship-
The town has a population of 10,997 from the merchant ships. There is also a pers and seamen, while the latter is
people and is divided into eight wards in fairly prestigious gambling house patronized almost exclusively by the
addition to the shugo-daiymo’s residence attached to one of the prominent tea- samurai and upper classes. The temple of
and the samurai district. The eight wards houses close to the samurai district. the Konjo school is located not far from the
are divided between three districts—the samurai district.
Bridge District, the Temple District, and Very little of this kumi’s income comes
the Castle District. In addition, there is an from protection money. Ebi maintains the There are also numerous shrines
eta (outcast) community outside the town. very proper public persona of a successful throughout the district, dedicated to the
As far as others are concerned, these out- shipping merchant. His gang has become Fire God, the Sun Goddess, the Goddess
casts are invisible—they do not exist. The an integral part of the community and is of Disease, the Gods of Luck and Fortune,
main features of each district are tolerated (indeed almost supported) by and the Goddess of Mercy. There are two
described below. Niwa’s samurai. The two groups have an shrines that serve as memorials: one to
unofficial understanding. The officials do the emperor defeated at the Battle of Kuri-
In recent years the port of Tamanokuni not harrass the gambling operations, sammyaku, and another to the samurai
has undergone several troubles. There unless they become excessive. The Ebi family Massatsu, who founded the town
have been a number of damaging fires to gang, in turn, restricts its operations to and later were instrumental in saving it
the principal warehouses of the city, possi- gambling houses, running an honest from a disastrous fire which swept the city.
bly caused by competition between game, and preventing any samurai or per-
unscrupulous merchants. sons of position from ruining themselves Aside from the temples, a great number
(with excessive debt). of artisans and craftsmen live in this dis-
trict, doing work for either the temples or
18 residents of the Samurai and Castle Dis-

tricts. There are no established yakuza able characters. These people—actors, Many samurai build their homes here so
gangs in the district, but the Ebi gang does singers, geishas, puppeteers and the they can be at the center of power. Some
extend its power unchallenged over the like—are concentrated into an area of a are shugo-matadai and must live in or
area. Yakuza activities within the district few blocks filled with diverse entertain- near the capital. Others are forced to do so
are more subdued than those in the ments for the commoner and wealthy by the shugo-daimyo, who holds their
Bridge District, as they would incur the alike. Here one can find popular plays, sto- families hostage.
wrath of the Niwa overlords. rytellers, puppet theaters, geisha houses,
teahouses, gambling dens, balladeers, This area is both very rich and very dan-
Castle District: This district has grown and wandering actors. The samurai of the gerous. Commoners run the risk of insult-
up along the bank of the Tara-gawa town, the wealthy merchants, and the ing or offending samurai at every turn.
upstream from the Bridge District. Nor- hard-working commoners all come and Accidental meetings of gangs of feuding
mally one must pass through the Castle mingle here for the entertainments. samurai can erupt into bloody fights. Ninja
District to reach Niwa Castle, which is on occasionally prowl the streets, destined
the island in the center of the river. The dis- The people of the district are colorful for some secret rendezvous. Twisting
trict consists of two wards, one of five and flamboyant. Some are widely popular intrigues simmer below the surface of this
blocks and the other of 13 blocks. and famous for their skills. Others are district’s life.
scruffy strangers, perhaps short-tem-
The majority of the people living in this pered ronin, who come to town with only a Niwa Castle: Located on an island in the
district are low-rank samurai, upper class sword. The unpredictability and low-life Tara-gawa between the Samurai District
nonsamurai, and the attendants of both activities of the area make it all the more and Tamanokuni is the castle of the Niwa
groups. Even the poorest of the samurai in attractive to the upper classes, allowing clan. The entire island has been claimed
this district attempts to maintain a lavish them to go “slumming.” Nonetheless, as as a Niwa stronghold. On the island are
house here—a walled compound enclos- famous as an actor may be for his perform- both fortifications and the palace of the
ing a garden and several buildings is com- ances, he is still of the lowest class. They Niwa family. The island is divided by sev-
mon. Some of wealthiest merchants in are revered and praised for their skill while eral moats and walls that separate the dif-
town keep splendid homes here, enclos- at the same time shunned for their social ferent palaces.
ing an acre or more of property. Although position.
they cannot maintain any samurai, they do The Outer Court (San-no-maru) houses
hire ronin and bushi as special guards. Within these few blocks is a flourishing the barracks of the garrison—a force of
Thus within a single household may live yakuza kumi, simply known as the Actors’ 500 samurai and 2,000 bushi, ail drawn
Gang. The organization is headed by the from the retainer families of the Niwa clan.
100 or more people. oyabun Emonsaku and is 218 strong. The The Middle Court (Ni-no-maru) holds
The most powerful of all those living gang fiercely controls all gambling and storehouses and the palaces of the shugo-
illegal activities within the area. Several dai and the uncles, nephews, and close
within the Castle District is Yukio the Rice times the Ebi and Hashi gangs have cousins of Niwa. Thus both Hiro and Niwa
Merchant. His home is a fortified com- attempted to make inroads into the area have homes on this part of the island. The
only to be savagely driven off by the Inner Court (Maru) is divided into the pal-
pound. Within its walls are his house with Actors. The authorities are very tolerant of ace grounds—home of Niwa Hirotada
a separate wing for his wife, three godown this violence, feeling that so long as inno- when he is in the province—and the
stocked with rice and other supplies, a cents are not involved, the matter is best tenshu-kaku, or main tower of the castle.
family shrine, a garden complete with ignored. Furthermore, the Actors’ Gang at This tower is five stories high.
pond and stream, a business office, sta- least ensures relative harmony in this dan-
bles, barracks for his guards, and an gerous and wild part of town. Each court is surrounded by walls and
armory. Aside from his family, which totals moats connecting to the river. Entry is only
20, he employs 30 servants in various Samurai District: Located across the possible through the masugata, special
occupations, six business clerks, ‘and an river from the rest of the town is the area gates designed to slow down attackers. In
overseer to mind them ail. For protection, known informally as the Samurai District. addition to the garrison, walls, and towers,
he has 250 bushi (1st - 3d level) com- This is not a proper district of Tamanokuni, the Niwa family also keeps seven war-
manded by 10 ronin (4th - 9th level). Fur- but is gradually being absorbed into the ships at quays built on the upstream end
thermore, he sponsors the school of the town. The area is fined with the homes of of the island. Crews for these ships are
kensai Oshio (10th level, spear expertise) important and powerful samurai who always present along with 15 bushi per
and his five students, which is located on attend upon the shugo-daimyo. Although ship, to prevent any attempts to blockade
the grounds. indeed, Yukio’s own son the master of the household is usually or starve out the occupants of the castle.
trains under Oshio. present for only part of the year, these
homes are always occupied and main- 0523
Few live as Yukio does. It is quite com- tained. Like those of the wealthy of Castle
mon for the lower rank samurai to be seri- District, most homes here are walled com- Shrine of Taro the Poet: On the side of
ously in debt to the moneylenders and pounds, equipped with heavy gates, guard the road is a simple building of carved
yakuza of the town. Many of the homes, towers, and complements of armed men. wood and thatch. it is only a shrine to the
although large and outwardly lavish, are Rice God, unexceptional except for the
sadly in need of repair on the inside. Many The area is reserved for samurai and splendid cherry trees that grow around it.
a servant has been let go by a master nobles, commoners are almost never The shrine and ifs cherry trees were
unable to support his staff. seen on the streets unless they are in the immortalized in one of the most famous
service of some lord. There are homes for works of the poet Taro, a master of classi-
Although most of the ward is the domain the Hori, Tsu, Igi, and all their retainers. cal poetry. In spring the blossoming
of the wealthy and powerful, the area
bounded by the river and the Bridge District 19
is home of many unsavory and disreput-

branches are festooned with prayer strips has become a popular story and Princess through a stone wall, and seize the main
hung among the buds by travelers and O-Suzuki and her son have become heroic tower (tenshu-kaku), which is built on a 30-
peasants. The shrine is now a popular pil- figures. During their lives they performed foot-high foundation.
grimage for other poets who arrive to see no notable deeds, and both eventually
the blossoms on the trees. Indeed, the froze in a blinding snowstorm, but these Of course, any assault would be made
expression “to have visited Taro’s shrine” things only add to their greatness. Thus more difficult by the garrison of 100 samu-
means to have traveled greatly for the the shrine of O-Suzuki is known through- rai and 500 bushi maintained on the
sake of one’s art. out Kozakura and is popular in stories and island. In addition, there is a fleet of 10
plays. The princess is said to sometimes river boats docked on the island at all
0524 appear to travelers, rewarding them for times. The garrison is led by Nogami Sado
their virtue or providing them with wise (samurai, 8th level), a trusted retainer of
Posthouse: This posthouse, part of a and maternal advice to help them through the Niwa family. He is a battle-scarred vet-
mura of 35 peasants, is a simple minka some difficult crisis. Although nothing eran of several campaigns against the
and godown surrounded by a wooden more than an unoccupied and decaying bandits, having lost his left eye in one bat-
stockade. Close as it is to Tamanokuni, its building, the shrine is a popular overnight tle. He is considered a martinet and task-
services are seldom needed. Currently the stop for travelers. Indeed, the shrine radi- master by the troops under him. He is,
posthouse is manned by Daidoji Tadako ates protection from evil enclosing all however, a canny and bold tactician.
(samurai, 9th level) and three bushi. within its walls.
Daidoji Tadako is a old man who has seen 0626
many hard years. He has been stationed 0614
at this quiet and restful posthouse in honor Awa Village: With a population of 408,
of his faithful service. Here he is still able The Cave of Gobo the Hermit: Hidden this village is thriving community. It has a
to perform valuable service for his lord and among the trees on the slopes of a moun- total of 127 buildings, including several
enjoy a peaceful old age. Once a month he tain is a small cave, the home of a religious warehouses of the Niwa family. The village
is visited by his son Daidoji Kiyotomo hermit named Gobo (shukenja, 7th level). sits at the junction of the Tara-gawa and
(samurai, 8th level) who lives in Tamano- Gobo lives an austere and simple life while Furo-gawa. Most of the produce of the
kuni. The elder Daidoji knows many of the searching for true enlightenment. He is a upland shoen, which is destined for mar-
old stories and legends of the province. kindly but intense man of middle age. ket or collected as rent and taxes, is
Before withdrawing from the world he had brought to Awa for shipment downstream.
0603 been a successful and talented carpenter. This shipping business is maintained as a
monopoly of the Niwa family. Thus,
Ekawashi Village: Nothing is unusual Gobo is not a follower of any religion, although the shoen of Awa is managed
in this village of 309 people and 93 build- but is attempting to find his own path to from Tamanokuni, the Niwa maintain a
ings. It is the perfect example of the sleepy understanding the cosmic forces and bal- force of 10 samurai and 30 bushi at Awa.
but industrious peasant village. Although ance of the world. Perhaps he is close; They are under the command of Kuroda
the largest community in this Niwa shoen, who can say? Perhaps he will never find Saga (samurai, 4th level).
the jito of the shoen has found it more what he seeks. Indeed, even if he does
pleasant and desirable to make his base find enlightenment, he may be content to 0704
of operations in Kuda, only a short dis- remain here the rest of his life, telling no
tance away. Thus the peasant’s life is little one what he has done. But he may also Toro-dai Temple: This temple is part of a
disturbed by powerful samurai lords. This come out of the hills, taking pupils and mura of 90 people. Staffed by five priests,
also makes the village a very popular stop- instructing them to follow his path. They three nuns, and one monk (4th level), it is a
ping place for disreputable travelers and would then spread his word to others and subscriber temple of the Toro-dai school.
noblemen incognito, since there is little his way would grow throughout Miyama. Currently there are two shukenja staying at
chance of trouble. This is speculation, however, for Gobo’s the temple (4th and 6th levels). Also resid-
enlightenment has yet to occur. ing at the temple are 50 sohei, led by a
0613 sohei commander (10th level), who is rest-
0625 less and irritated with the small size of his
O-Suzuki Shrine: This lonely shrine command. The temple serves as the head-
commemorates the site where the Prin- Niiashima-jo: Situated on the island quarters of this Toro-dai shoen. The sohei
cess O-Suzuki died with her son, who was formed by the ox-bow of the Tara-gawa is of this shoen and the nearby Kanchai
to be emperor, when escaping the forces the main Niwa outpost for eastern Miy- shoen are fierce rivals and there is much
of the Honda army during the Zakura ama. The Niwa Island Castle is not a mag- bitterness between them.
insurrection. The death of this pair was nificent structure like other castles in the
instrumental in the failure of the Honda province, but it is an extremely effective Originally the Kanchai shoen bordered
faction to seize the imperial line. However, fortification. the Toro-dai lands and there was constant
the deaths are not remembered for what raiding between the two. However, 10
they accomplished, but rather for their The island is reached by crossing one of years ago, the shugo-daimyo was pres-
pathos and tragedy. Kozakurans believe three high-arched bridges, two of wood sured by the Toro-dai into partitioning the
that the deaths were fated to occur and the and one of stone. Once on the island, an Kanchai shoen. A large section was taken
outcome was inescapable. attacker must surmount an earthwork by the Niwa family and a smaller section
embankment topped by a wooden stock- was given to the Ishii family, retainers of
The sad tragedy of the mother and child ade, cross a moat, clamber over a second the Niwa. Only a small section was kept by
revetment, wade a second moat, batter the Kanchai school. This, of course,

20

increased the bitterness between the two Joei. It is said that his warehouse is filled are trained. It is headed by Roben (monk,
schools, but did provide a buffer between with devious traps and unspeakable guard- 14th level), a quiet man who generally
them. Because of this deed, the Kanchai ians. Although a few brave thieves have tries to find peaceful solutions rather than
have no great love of the shugo-daimyo, entered the warehouse only one or two use his martial skills. Under him are 20
whom they accuse of attempting to break have ever come out. They are reported to monks of various levels.
their power. have died within hours of their exploit, and
their ill-gotten goods vanished. In the heart of the New District is the
0705 household of the local administrator, the
Apparently shipments are unloaded by shugodai Niwa Onshi (samurai, 14th
Kuda: Kuda is the second largest town in Joei himself or the work is done in secret level). Often referred to as Niwa ni Kuda,
Miyama. Kuda was formerly the provincial through unknown agencies. It is said his Onshi’s branch of the Niwa family is begin-
capital under imperial rule. With the rise of clerk Lu always knows in advance when ning to break away from the direct control
the shogunate, the capital has been moved his master will return and can consult him of the head of the Niwa family, Niwa Hiro-
to Tamanokuni. Kuda has gradually declined for advice even if he has been gone for a tada. But Niwa Onshi still spends much of
in prestige and size since that time. Cur- year. Competitors and enemies of Joei are his time in Tamanokuni or the bakufu, con-
rently it is a town of 7,386 inhabitants. The said to be fated with bad luck and acci- sulting with his cousin.
town is divided into five wards in two dis- dents, many crippling or lethal to their
tricts: the Old District and the New District. businesses and lives. Such is his reputa- When Onshi is absent, his work is han-
tion that none in town challenges him on dled by the shugo-matadai, Hiro Masaru
The Old District: This district consists of the quality of his goods or their origin. It is (samurai, 10th level), who lives year-round
three wards of five to 10 blocks each. It is even rumored that he holds his licenses in Kuda. Hiro Masaru is efficient, but
indeed an old district: some of the build- for unnatural services rendered to the bored with his duty. He would be very
ings have stood for more than 700 years. emperor and shogun. happy if a war or rebellion were to break
Located on the waterfront, the Old District out, so he could command troops in the
is the shipping and trade center of Kuda. Also within the Old District is the yakuza field. Stationed throughout the town are
Of the three wards, one is almost entirely kumi of Ishi the Hairy (yakuza oyabun, 300 samurai and 1,000 bushi retainers of
devoted to the homes of several shipping 16th level). His organization has 129
merchants, as well as their warehouses members. They operate the usual yakuza the Niwa household.
and employees’ homes. Stored in these activities—gambling and protection rack- Kuda is also the home of Junyu, a
warehouses are rice, lumber, and some ets. They have a standing rule, rigidly
pottery. The warehouses also contain enforced, that they never bother the activi- swordsman turned priest (dual-class
much pig iron, tea, silk, paper, fine sake, ties of Joei the Aged. It is not known if this human kensai/shukenja, 14th/16th levels)
and other goods imported and domestic. is due to fear, bribery, or common sense. and his rising pupil Miyoshi (river spirit folk
kensai, 8th level). Junyu is famous
A reminder of better times is the busi- The New District: The New District is that throughout Kozakura as a skilled swords-
ness of the merchant Joei the Aged (wu part of Kuda that was rebuilt after a disas- man who has fought many duels. As his
jen, 11th level). This eccentric old man trous fire destroyed almost a third of the
runs a small but profitable importing busi- town during the Tennu War. This district is skill and fame grew, however, he saw the
ness under license from the emperor and only new when compared to the Old Dis- folly of pointless fighting. His near-
shogun. He specializes in rare and exotic trict, as most of the buildings are several
items from distant lands. He often disap- hundred years old. Located on the gentle religious approach to swordsmanship has
pears for months, sometimes years, at a slopes away from the shore, the New Dis- made it easy and natural for him to enter
time pursuing these wares. Invariably he trict consists of two wards of nine blocks
returns with his ship laden with exotic trea- each. The streets wind through the ter- the ranks of the priesthood.
sures and unfamiliar magical devices. raced slopes, easily confusing strangers. He has now given himself over to a life
Even when he is home, his activities are a
mystery. His small business employs only Prominent in the district is the Shrine of of austerity and meditation in the Konjo
one clerk, Lu, a foreigner from Shou Lung Niwa Ozuchi, ancestral hero of the Niwa school. He still accepts and entertains a
(wu jen, 6th level). Lu is a small, dark, and family. During the burning of Kuda, it was few kensai pupils, but his training now
mysterious fellow, given to speaking in he who saved the charters of the Niwa stresses the mental and religious aspects
one-word sentences. family at the expense of his own life. This of his swordcraft. Still, dedicated kensai
shrine is staffed by three members of the avidly seek him out to train their spirits in
Joei is also known to have three perma- Mizuno family (shukenja, 3d, 5th, and 8th
nent guards: two giant men, also level), a position given their family as an the true way. His training is hard and dan-
foreigners (barbarians, 7th level) and a honor. As a further honor, the shrine is gerous. Pupils are forced to sit unflinching
small wiry Kozakuran (bushi/ninja, 6th/5th allowed to maintain a special fire-brigade under ice-cold waterfalls, fast rigorously,
levels) called Saigo. Saigo appears very of 100 sohei who organize the population and fight seemingly impossible matches
open and friendly, often drinking and gam- in the event of fire. The shrine also does a (sword against fan, sword against oar,
bling with other workers on the waterfront. good business selling magical and non- sword against scarf, etc.). Many a pupil
Still, for all his companions, Saigo never magical charms intended to protect fails or gives up on the training.
talks about his employer while learning against fires. Worshipers at the shrine
much about everyone else. These four generally seek safety from fires or pray for Junyu’s current pupil is Miyoshi, a
men are Joei’s only known employees. the same loyalty and devotion to duty as strange youth with no known past (at least
was shown by Ozuchi. Attached to the none that he will speak of). Miyoshi has
Numerous, stories are whispered about shrine is a small monastery where monks proven to be a brilliant fighter, but has a
wild and fiery temperament. It is clear to
21 Junyu that the boy will never master his
teachings, but he is reluctant to send his
handsome and charming pupil away. Thus
Junyu indulges Miyoshi to some extent,
hoping he will yet prove himself.

0707 the Dead. Caring for the shrine is a 0808
hunched and sly-looking old man with
Mihara Village: Little remains of this long, matted hair and a wild beard. He is Shrine of the Monkey God: Located in
fishing village, only a few minka stand after simply called the Unwanted One (henge- the fields is this small shrine to the Mon-
the disastrous fire that recently swept yokai badger wu jen, 9th level). Some key God. Currently residing at the shrine is
through the community. Before the fire, this think that he is a hengeyokai and others a monkey hengeyokai shukenja (6th level)
was a peaceful community of 389 people believe him to be an eta (outcast). The posing as a human. As the master of the
and 138 buildings. By the end of the blaze, shrine has an evil reputation and all hon- shrine, he carefully plays his role and
only 17 buildings remained standing and est travelers and peasants shun it. attends to the needs of the local peasants.
147 people had died. Most of the survivors Although no one has ever seen any wor- However, at night he changes into monkey
are now homeless and have lost their for- shipers at the shrine, it is said that ninja form and roams the countryside, playing
tunes and means of livelihood. There are and hideous creatures gather there to per- tricks on others. His tricks cause great
many orphans, widows, and parents griev- form forbidden services. harm and woe to those who are secretly
ing for the dead. The jito of this Niwa shoen corrupt and evil, and thus he helps the
cannot afford to provide relief. Currently a 0801 oppressed and downtrodden.
delegation is preparing to travel to Tamano-
kuni to appeal to the officials of the prov- Bamboo Gorge Tower: A simple 0812
ince for aid. The people are a sad and wooden watchtower sits on the edge of a
dispirited group, sorely in need of aid, cliff overlooking the place where the trail Posthouse: This waystation, located on
financial, physical, and spiritual. below runs through a thick grove of bam- a Niwa shoen, is far from the centers of
boo. This structure is a single crow’s nest power or control. Situated in a cool and
0720 built atop a 40-foot-high wooden frame- shaded hollow, the posthouse is run by
work. The top is reached by a basket Kate Kenkichi (samurai, 5th level). Kate is
Muroto Village: This village and the raised or lowered by ropes. The top of the a retainer of the Tsu family and has
shoen on which it stands was a gift from tower allows a clear view of the country- received this appointment through special
Niwa Hirotada to the Ebisawa family, in an side for miles around; Kuda is faintly visi- favors. He bears no love of the Niwa family
attempt to bind them closer to the Niwa ble in the distance. In the tower is a large and secretly allows the posthouse to be
family (drawing them away from the Igi fam- brazier filled with wood for a signal fire. used by bandits and other opponents of
ily). The transfer of the title occurred only The tower is manned by one samurai, the Niwa family. In this he is assisted by
recently and Muroto (population 320 with Ooka Kanetomo (3d level), a slovenly fel- his brother Akiie (samurai, 3d level) and
79 buildings) has not yet felt the effects of low, and two bushi (both 1st level). the 10 bushi of the posthouse.
this change. The new owner has not had
time to install his administration, although 0807 0814
this is expected very soon. It has been
announced that the jito will be establishing Posthouse: Because it is located in the Yoshiie the Bandit’s Stronghold:
a residence in the village and workers have heart of a Niwa shoen, this posthouse is Tucked away in this secluded valley is the
already begun building his manor. In gen- quite a sleepy place. Built in a mura of 37 stronghold of the bandit Yoshiie (bushi,
eral, the town is busily preparing to greet its people, the posthouse consists of a simple 20th level). He has gathered a force of dis-
new overseer, hoping to establish a good yet elegant building and a stable. It is affected, homeless, and evil warriors. His
relationship from the start. more lavish than most posthouses, since it band is as follows:
is a frequent stopping place of Niwa samu-
0721 rai when touring the shoen or traveling Foot Ronin, 1st level — 30
from Tamanokuni to Kuda. Thus the man- Mounted Ronin, 1st level — 20
Posthouse: This posthouse consists of agement of this posthouse is a more Foot Ronin, 2d level — 10
a single minka and attached stable, with- important role than most and the job is Mounted Ronin, 2d level — 15
out a walled compound. It is built on a given to honored retainers. Mounted Ronin, 3d level — 10
marshy stretch of ground around which
flow several streams. The air here is par- The current head of the posthouse is Foot Bushi, 1st level — 180
ticularly unhealthy and infested by mos- Hori Gutsu (samurai, 5th level). He is Foot Bushi, 2d level — 30
quitoes. This is not a very popular post assisted by Kadokawa Yori (samurai, 3d Foot Bushi, 3d level — 10
and is often assigned to those out of favor. level), who acts as his chamberlain. Under
Currently the posthouse is run by Koda their command are 10 samurai (all retain- Korobokuru Barbarians — 20
Yoshiuji (samurai, 6th level), a fanatical ers of the Hori household), 30 bushi, and 20 (all 1st level)
supporter of the Igi family. He has only two assorted servants. Hori Gutsu is extremely
servants to assist him in his duties. proud of his position and strives to be wor- The korobokuru have joined Yoshiie’s
thy of it. Should any flaw in the perform- band to strike back at the hated samurai
0731 ance of the posthouse be noted, he is who stole their homelands.
personally shamed. Furthermore, if a flaw
Shrine of the Dark Ones: At the end of is maliciously claimed, he will instantly Yoshiie has a 10th-level kensai sub-
a secret trail is a gloomy old shrine in a seek revenge (through personal combat) commander and three 5th-level bushi lieu-
thick grove of bamboo. The doorway is against the slanderer, regardless of level. tenants. Furthermore, he has the services
flanked by two statues of hideous oni. of a 7th-level wu jen. Occasionally shu-
Inside is a towering statue to the God of 22 kenja enter the camp, offering their serv-
ices to those in need.

The stronghold is a wooden stockade

built out from the face of a cliff. A waterfall effect, since the hauntings have all but farmers of nearby mura and all records of
tumbles from the top of the cliff face and ceased. Still, it is said the village reap- Anan were destroyed. The ruins of Anan
flows out through a grating in the front of pears in ghostly fashion each year on the are left as an example to all others of
the stockade. A narrow and twisting trail anniversary of the flood. A common ghost where their true duty lies.
climbs the cliff, providing an emergency story told by mothers to their children tells
escape route. Well in advance of the of the terrors faced by a samurai traveler 0907
stockade are several hidden guardposts who stopped for the night at this village on
that watch the entrance to the valley. If all the anniversary of the flood. Shrine of the Sun Goddess:This impos-
ing structure is built on the site where the
goes according to Yoshiie’s plans, these Fuchu Village: Built on part of the Sun Goddess was supposed to have placed
guardposts will be able to warn the main shoen of the shikken of Kozakura, this vil- the Spear of the Sun which spanned the gap
stockade of any intruders before they lage of 347 enjoys the special privilege of between the Land of the Gods and
reach the stockade. being exempt from taxation. The village Shinkoku. The shrine is quite lavish and
earned this special status for the valiant consists of a walled compound enclosing a
Within the stockade are several rude stand it took during the Hojo War. At that main hall and several smaller buildings. Liv-
buildings that serve as barracks, stables, time, the shoen belonged to the Hojo fam- ing at the shrine are 50 priests and 300 sohei
and storehouses. The bandits are armed ily. Defying their rule, the jito of the shoen under the command of a 15th-level sohei. In
and armored with a ragtag collection of inspired the villagers to declare for the addition, there are normally 2d6 shukenja of
equipment, some brought with them and shikken. The attempt was hopeless and various levels visiting this shrine at any
much more scavenged from their raids. the village was destroyed and nearly all given time. The shrine is managed by the
Most of their equipment is in very poor the villagers were put to the sword. How- Takeuchi family, who have supplied priests
repair, although usually quite decorative. ever, with the end of the war, the shikken to the shrine for many centuries.
They are a savage group who neither expect rewarded the survivors by exempting
nor grant mercy. They have no illusions them and their descendants from taxation. The shrine stands in the heart of an
about their fate if captured. The standard Consequently, although the village is only imperial shoen, and the priests of the
punishment for bandits if captured is humili- a small fishing community, its people are shrine are strong supporters of the
ating and painful public execution, normally thriving and prosperous. emperor. It is by his leave that the shrine
beheading or cruxifiction. Thus they will fight maintains a strong force of sohei. These
to the death rather than surrender. Posthouse: This waystation is more than soldiers, ostensibly warriors of the shrine,
a posthouse, it is also the home of the jito are often employed by the zussho of the
Yoshiie himself is a tough character. He Osamu Muraoka (samurai, 16th level). He is imperial shoen for various duties. Their
has not reached his position by being a a loyal supporter of the shikken and has little presence has been one of the major fac-
nice fellow. He rules this bandit gang love for the Niwa family. Upon orders from tors in keeping this shoen intact and
through force, brains, and fear. His disci- the shikken, Osamu maintains a large ensuring that its rent money reaches the
pline is iron tough and unforgiving. At the household—30 samurai and 400 bushi. This imperial courts. Naturally, the shikken and
same time, he treats the members of his shoen controls the strategic entrance to the shugo-daimyo would both like to find a
band as his children. He is protective and pass through the Kurisammyaku and the way to break the power of this shrine, but
kind, yet harsh and stern. The members of shikken intentionally maintains a strong none has come to light yet.
his band respect him and often refer to force here. This shoen is also a thorn in the
him as their chichi (father). side of the shugo-daiymo, for it is a visible 0926
presence of the shikken in his lands.
Yoshiie has no intention of remaining at Goblin Spider Lair: Located deep in
this hideout forever. Currently it suits his 0822 the tangled woods is the lair of two goblin
needs, since he receives support and spiders (AC 4; MV 18”; HD 7; hp 23, 43;
information from Kato Kenkichi, the samu- Anan: These ruins are what is left of the #AT 2; Damage 1d8/1d8; SA surprise,
rai of the posthouse in hex 0812. Sooner village of Anan. It was burned to the grasp; SD + 1 weapons to hit; MR 20%;
or later, his band will separate, each mem- ground five years ago by the soldiers of AL NE). These creatures have been living
ber taking his loot and going his own way. the shugo-daimyo. It was a small and in a complex of tunnels for decades, prey-
peaceful farming village until the day a ing on game and the few unwary travelers
0817 farmer’s son struck down and killed the jito who come their way. Littering the floor of
of this shoen. He fled to the house of his their main chamber, among the bones of
Shrine of the River Dragon: Built on father, an evil thing for a good son to do. their victims, are 4,000 yuan and a jade
the banks of the Nora-gawa is a small But even worse, his mother and father statuette worth 20 ch’ien.
shrine dedicated to the dragon-spirit of the foolishly gave him shelter.
river. The shrine was built 29 years ago 1006
after a disastrous flood swept away all the When the officers of the shugo-daimyo
inhabitants of a small mura that stood on arrived, the parents claimed they did not The Stone and Moss Field: Scattered
this site. Thereafter, many incidents of know where their son was, nor did anyone throughout a small area of boggy ground
hauntings by the drowned spirits of the vil- else in the town. But the criminal was is a tumbled collection of rough-hewn
lagers were reported. Many attempts were found when the village was searched. As stones. The area is not a natural boulder
made to appease these spirits, all without punishment for the terrible crime of con- field, so it is obvious that these stones
success. Finally, upon the advice of a wan- cealing him, the entire community was put were brought here from the mountains.
dering shukenja, the peasants built a to the sword and all the buildings were Furthermore, they show signs of having
small shrine to the river dragon. The burned. The fields were reassigned to
shrine seems to have had the desired

23

been worked with tools, although very character. Of late she has been appearing north. Here they stop and pray for a safe
crudely. Now they are covered by large at the shrine as a woman of refined char- journey through the mountains.
patches of moss and lichen. The acter and intelligence. From these visits,
hyakusho of the area have no idea what she has become quite smitten with the The shrine, enriched by the donations of
the stones were for or how they got there. exceptional Nado, and he, likewise, has travelers, is a large and well-fortified struc-
Some believe they were mystically been charmed by her grace. The head of ture. It consists of an outer wall pierced by
brought there by a powerful wu jen. Others the temple suspects the true identity of the the main gate and two lesser side gates,
think it was the work of the korobokuru. woman, but, feeling it is not his place, has an outer prayer hall where travelers offer
The most popular belief is that it was some not spoken against this romance. their prayers, an inner main hall (actually a
structure of the gods from the time that fortified tower), and the quarters of the
they lived on Shinkoku. 1019 priests, monks, shukenja, and sohei of the
shrine. Outside the boundaries of all
1010 The Korobokuru Shrine: Standing shoen, the shrine can easily maintain its
atop a hummock overlooking the local rice standing force of 250 sohei. These troops
Korobokuru Castle: Covered by wild paddies is a simple thatched minka. Out- are often called upon by the shugo-daimyo
grasses are the remains of the last strong- side the entrance are several carefully to suppress bandit activity in the area. Of
hold of the korobokuru who once lived in this planted cryptomeria trees and carved course, there is always a price the shugo-
area. Now all that remain are the rounded wooden posts. The entire building is daimyo must pay for this service.
outlines of the earthworks that formed the ringed by a crude wooden fence of woven
walls. From this stronghold the korobokuru branches. The local villagers treat the In addition to the sohei, the shrine also
made their final stand before being driven building and its occupant with great boasts a monastery. The leader of this
from the lowlands of the province. Korobo- respect, presenting offerings during the monastery is Zomyo (monk, 17th level).
kuru still make pilgrimages to this site to planting and harvest times. Under him are 50 monks of various levels.
leave offerings to the ancestors who This monastery is considered one of the
defended this place. They are not loved by This humble abode is the home of major centers of the martial arts within
the locals and hence most of the offerings Raven, a korobokuru spirit god. When the Miyama.
appear mysteriously during the night. korobokuru were first driven from this
area, Raven’s house was destroyed. For There are always 2d4 shukenja staying
1014 this, bad luck constantly plagued the local at the shrine at any time, resting for a few
settlers. Finally a wandering shukenja days before beginning their wanderings
Shrine of the Spring: This shrine is determined that Raven was angry and on the road.
built to a local nature spirit, said to inhabit should be appeased. The minka was
the spring that bubbles up through the rebuilt and a korobokuru of power was 1113
ground. The shrine is a simple, well- invited to become the caretaker of Rav-
tended building, surrounded by an elabo- en’s house. Since that time the villagers’ Konjo Provincial Monastery: Set in a
rate garden of stones and a protective luck has improved. rocky hillside, facing west towards Nora-
wall. At the far end of the compound is a ko, is the largest monastery of the prov-
separate building, built for Nado Tori (sea Living in the minka is the korobokuru ince. In this secluded shoen, the priests,
spirit folk ronin, 10th level). Although a fol- Kim-un-guru (wu jen, 6th level), a stocky lit- monks, and sohei of the Konjo school
lower of the Konjo school, Nado Tori has tle man with bushy black hair. His teeth are meditate and train. The monastery was
valiantly protected and generously quite bad and his voice is loud and boister- established 406 years ago, when a band
endowed this shrine in the past. Now, with ous. He is quite given to drinking, singing of Konjo hermits established a small com-
the family line of his lord extinguished, the “old songs,” and dancing. He super- munity here. Gradually they cleared the
Nado has retired to the peacefulness of vises this special shrine to Raven. Aware land and attracted hyakusho, since the
the shrine. that he is considered a barbaric outsider, he lands were exempt from taxation. In time,
plays the role. His behaviour is intentionally a temple and monastery were built at the
In consideration of his virtue, the priests outrageous and insulting, violating the site of the hermit community. Finally, with
and shukenja of the shrine have prepared unspoken but strict social rules of the Koza- the burning of the Konjo temple in Kuda,
him a modest dwelling in the shrine. Nado kurans. Among other things, he openly this temple was given the status of provin-
has built the graceful rock garden (a fea- voices his opinions, is unashamed if others cial temple for Miyama.
ture of many Konjo temples) and quietly laugh at him, wanders through the streets
practices his Konjo beliefs. He also assists loudly drunk, and (worst of all) gleefully The temple and monastery are divided
the commander (6th-level sohei) of the embarrasses others in public. Although he into two separate areas. At the core is the
shrine’s small sohei force (10 sohei) in is offensive and occasionally quite rude, he secret monastery. This is a walled com-
training the men. Nado is still in his prime is a popular figure with the locals, as he is pound only entered by the Konjo monks.
and could easily find service with some able to do and say the things they secretly Although it does not manage the Konjo
other lord. This he will not do, since enter- wish they could. shoen, all actions of the priests must meet
ing the service of another would be a with the approval of the Grandmaster of
betrayal of his duty to his dead lord. 1106 Flowers who resides therein. Within the
walls are 250 monks, training and sharp-
The spring around which the shrine is Kurisammyaku Shrine: Located at the ening their skills. Frequently one or more
based is inhabited by a charming and entrance to the valley through the Kuri- will leave to travel, returning with practical
graceful nature spirit. She has become sammyaku, this shrine is a required stop- experience.
attracted to Nado Tori’s dedication and ping point for travelers using the trail to the
Surrounding the secret monastery is the
24 open monastery. This is a place of contem-

plation and refuge for those who wish to Originally the pagoda was part of one of the that connects with a series of tunnels and
remove themselves from the world. These first Toro-dai temples built in Kozakura by exits in and around the town. Thus inhabit-
people are not priests, shukenja, or missionaries from Shou Lung. Thus the ants can disappear instantly and reappear
character-class monks. They are normal temple was modeled after Shou Lung with reinforcements in unexpected loca-
people who have taken up a religious life. building styles. Later the temple was tions. Most of the houses are fitted with
Often a samurai of rank will come here to attacked and ail but this tower was secret caches of weapons and hiding
purify his spirit, or the wife of a samurai will destroyed. The stone construction of the holes. Most of the floors are uguisi-bari
make a retreat here to protest injustices pagoda has proven useful as a stronghold. (nightingale floors), which squeak when
on the part of her husband. The standard garrison of the tower is 10 walked upon. Several large open areas,
sohei, commanded by Yosai (sohei, 7th looking like nothing more than public
Currently Igi Saturo (samurai, 16th level). He is quite clever and thoughtful, but lawns, are actually practice and training
level) is staying here. Formerly the head of is bored and irritated by his current duties. grounds for archery, martial arts, and the
the Igi clan, he has officially retired, pass- stealthy ninja arts. The villagers maintain
ing his duties on to his son. Of course, he 1208 a disguise as hyakusho, ready to dress
still has influence and is consulted on mat- and act like them at any time.
ters of great importance. Although retired Susa Village: Isolation at the upper end of
to the religious life, he still has three ser- a narrow valley suits the villagers of Susa On rare occasions when the secret of the
vants who attend to his needs, as is fitting. just fine, since they are far from normal village is discovered, the ninjas have two
peasants. The entire population of Susa options. Most often they instantly track down
Attached to the open monastery, but (176 people) are either ninja, the family of and remove the person. On rare occasions,
independent of it, is the Konjo temple. ninja, or involved with the ninja in some way. the intended victim actually hires the ninja
This small temple is staffed by 10 priests With only a few exceptions, the entire village for some mission. If this is done, they natu-
of various families. In addition, there are is a single clan. Furthermore, the ninja of rally do not kill him, but threaten to implicate
1d4 wandering shukenja present at ail Susa consider themselves Niwa ninja; that him in whatever deed he asked done should
times. The temple handles the manage- is, they work and serve the shugo-daimyo of he reveal their secret.
ment of the shoen. The commander of the the province almost exclusively. Because of
Konjo sohei, Ichi (sohei, 14th level), their abilities and services, the shugo- When strangers arrive in the town, the
reports on the activities of his 420 men to daimyo has bound them to him and has ninja are polite and friendly, suspending
the temple authorities. The myoshu pay given them special privileges. The leader of all secret activities for the moment. Should
their rent to the temple authorities. The the village, Yonin (bushi/ninja, 16th/14th the stranger foolishly decide to remain in
temple provides for most of the religious levels), is also the zussho of the shoen. Niwa the village for any length of time, the ninja
needs of the people around Nora-ko. Hirotada has not assigned a jito to the will efficiently remove him. Since they con-
shoen. Furthermore, Yonin is the son-in-law trol the town, they have no reason to be
1124 of Niwa Hirotada, married to the daughter of secretive or discreet. Indeed, such remov-
Niwa Hirotada and one of his consorts. This als are often assigned to younger mem-
Stone-Icicle-World: At the base of the gives the Niwa family a familial tie to the bers needing practice.
mountains, hidden in the deep woods, is a ninja of Susa.
narrow, rubble-clogged cave mouth. This 1211
is the entrance to a vast series of caverns Outward appearances suggest that
that underlie all of Miyama Province and Susa is a normal peasant village, the truth Ibara Village: This village of 289 is
more. Although the exact location of the could hardly be more different. Through- located not far from the shores of Nora-ko.
entrance is unknown to the general popu- out the village and its approaches are Nonetheless, it is a farming not a fishing vil-
lation, there are a few hengeyokai and traps, bolt holes, alarms, and hidden lage. Nora-ko’s evil reputation is such that
korobokuru who can guide one to the site. guards. only the bravest or most foolish of the vil-
lagers venture upon it. Effectively pre-
According to local legend, Stone-Icicle The village is located in the woods away vented from rapid communications with
World is the place where O-Miyama-no- from the fields tended by the villagers. The other parts of the lake, Ibara has become a
mikoto, a local deity, entered into the trails to the village are especially narrow sleepy backwater. The sleepy attitude suits
Realms of the Dead to visit his mother. The and twisting and always pass through the the myoshu, Gobo, since he is actually a
caverns are believed to extend for hun- densest part of the woods. Hidden short- cat hengeyokai (wu jen, 4th level). This is
dreds, perhaps thousands of miles cuts allow the villagers to reach any point suspected by the other villagers, but they
beneath the earth, magically reaching on the trail ahead of their enemies. One are not openly hostile since he holds a
even into other planes and dimensions. It watcher is hidden along each trail to warn great deal of power over their lives. He is
is also said that the caverns are filled with of intruders. Unless the special signal is tyrannical and impulsive, demanding much
all manner of horrible creatures, although given, the watcher gives a bird call as a from the hyakusho under him. Fear of his
this is somewhat uncertain as few tell tales warning to the village. At the end of each strange powers keep the others in line. The
of this subterranean region. trail are a series of traps, easily avoided by villagers would like to see him out of the
those in the know. Some are pits with way, but are afraid to do the job them-
1206 spikes, others are snares. selves. Meanwhile, he is trying to learn the
secrets held in the depths of Nora-ko.
Watchtower of the Kurisammyaku Within the village are more traps, again
Shrine: Set on top of a ridge several miles easily avoided once pointed out. There are 1212
from the Kurisammyaku Shrine is this spirit chasers, spikes, pits, and snares.
small watchtower. Built by the sohei of the Each house has a secret escape tunnel Norijo: Close to the shore of this island
shrine, it is a stone pagoda five stories tail.
25

is a strange ruin. From a distance, Norijo The broken remains of the boat washed longer stands. The shrine is still main-
appears to be a twisted mass of blackened ashore where she was waiting. After this, tained by an old shukenja (9th level) who
plants. As one gets closer the mass she wasted away and died in sorrow. Now has come to this place. He has decided to
assumes a form and structure vaguely like their spirits are sometimes seen, he in his end his days here, since it is a good place.
that of a building. However, it is like no other rowboat and her on shore, separated from Lately he has become intrigued by the fate
structure ever built. Close examination each other by the lapping waves. It is said of the villagers. The old records of the
shows that it is formed out of crystalline the sandpipers of the area have a unique shrine tell of a village nearby, but he has
seaweed, woven and braced together. The cry like the sorrowful crying of his name. not been able to find any sign of it. Some
geometry and styles are almost completely mysterious and powerful magic has swept
alien to the homes of a normal Kozakuran. 1413 them away. The aura does show that a
malevolent force was at work here.
According to local stories, Norijo began Itsuki Village: This village of 210 rests
to appear shortly after the Sun Goddess exactly on the boundary between a Konjo 1521
threw a flaming coal into Nora-ko. After shoen and the shoen of the samurai Sakai
this, creatures, neither human nor fish and Kazuhiko. The zussho of the Konjo shoen, Divine Empress Shrine: About 2,000
not quite anything in between, appeared Tu-shun (sohei, 12th level), and Sakai years ago, according to legend, the Divine
on the shore of the island and began build- Kazuhiko (samurai, 9th level) have been Empress was traveling through the lands of
ing Norijo. Quite naturally, the locals were locked in a dispute over ownership of the Shinkoku raising an army to battle the Oni
terrified of these creatures and kept a safe village for years. Each shoen is an armed Kings. Three times during the journey the
distance. Indeed, it is not known whether camp and Itsuki is the battleground. child she carried cried out that it was ready
the structure is completed or if the crea- to be born and three times she bade it wait.
tures are still there. They have not been Each side has captured one end of the Finally, when she reached this spot the
sighted in many years, so the Norijo is now village. Holding a fortified house on the birth could no longer be delayed and she
considered a ruin by the locals. east side is Tu-shun with 75 1st-level sohei gave birth to a stone. Angered at her child’s
and two 6th-level sohei aides. At the west- impiety for assuming such an appearance,
1407 ern end of the village, in his manor house, she ordered her soldiers to break the stone
is Sakai Kazuhiko with 10 1st-level samu- apart. With the fall of the first blow the stone
Jishin Mushi Lair: Located in the rai, 50 1st-level bushi, and three 5th-level shattered and out leaped her full-grown
swampy ground at the bottom of a draw is samurai aides. Between the two are the son, Stone-Storm-Wind.
the nest of a jishin mushi (AC 3; MV 9”/3”; helpless villagers of Itsuki. Periodically
HD 5 + 4; hp 29; #AT 1; Damage 2d8; SA Tu-shun or Sakai leads a foray against the There is no proof that this event ever
tremor). The nest is made of reeds and other side and then beats a hastily retreat. occurred or that this is the site. There are
bent saplings cemented together with the Were it not for the deadly earnestness of five other shrines to the Stone-Bearing-
beast’s spittle. These form a gloomy tun- these raids, the whole affair would be Empress throughout Kozakura, all of them
nel through the overgrowth to the egg utterly comical. A typical raid begins with a more popular than this one.
chamber. Hanging from the walls of this wild and noisy charge up the street toward
chamber are four egg cases, nearly ready the opposing camp. This is met by an The shrine was once a large compound,
to hatch. When they do, each case will equally noisy charge from the defenders. but it now suffers from neglect and decay.
release hundreds of baby jishin mushi There is more noise than action as both Many of the outer buildings are semi-
who will swarm over the countryside. sides hurl more invectives at each other collapsed and the compound wall has
than blows. Finally a few build up their tumbled in many places. In the heart of the
Although far back in the hills, the nest courage, rush at each other, exchange a compound is the main worship hall, built
was seen by a lost traveler who came few frenzied blows until one falls. As if on around a huge split boulder. The roof on
across it accidentally. Curiosity prompt- signal, the losers grab their wounded and this building leaks badly and the red pillars
ing him to enter, he saw the horror that lay rush back to the safety of their fort. are sadly in need of a new coat of paint.
inside and fled in panic. Eventually he The shrine is managed by three old men,
returned to civilization and told what he It is fortunate for both sides that neither once fairly adept shukenja now weakened
had seen. Having been lost, he only has Tu-shun nor Sakai are brilliant com- in their powers (4th, 3d, and 2d levels).
the most general idea of the nest’s loca- manders. Indeed, from their perform- The first is nearly totally deaf, the second
tion. The reports have reached the shugo- ances, both are barely competent to is almost blind, and the third mostly sits
matadai for the area and he has offered a command the men they lead. The situa- about, fondly remembering the “old
reward to any who can guide his soldiers tion in the village is a carefully balanced days.” They are quite friendly and want to
to the nest or destroy the eggs and crea- scale. Even the smallest new element be helpful, but are not accustomed to visi-
ture before the hatching occurs. could cause a drastic change in the bal- tors. Thus they have a hard time adapting
ance of power. But unknown to both Tu- to the needs of strangers and remember-
1412 shun and Sakai, there is a third element in ing the proper behavior when others are
this battle—the villagers. They are actively around. Of late that have been bothered
The Rowboat Shrine: Located on the seeking a savior from the incessant war- by raiding parties of bakemono (from the
shore of Nora-ko, this shrine is a simple fare that is destroying their homes. lair at 1720) and would accept assitance, if
stone memorial built by the peasants of they can make themselves understood.
Ibara. The stone marks the spot where two 1416
lovers allegedly held secret trysts. One 1720
night, during a terrible storm, the man dis- Tani Shrine: This small valley shrine
appeared while trying to reach his love. was built by the farmers of a village that no Bakemono Lair: Standing in an area of

26

partially cleared forest, amid fields now been in the form of rice, which the group soldiers to form this bandit camp.
falling into decay, is a small and ill-kept either eats or lets rot. For all his courage and cleverness,
mura. Once it was the home of a band of
peasants who had fled the reach of the 1723 T’an-zao is also a totally vindictive and
shugo-daimyo. Here they were going to unreformed criminal. Raised in truly sav-
make a better life for their community. Ichi’s Camp: Not far from the trail are age lands, he understands only death and
Unfortunately they discovered the reason the remains of the last stronghold of Ichi plunder. His savageness has increased
so few peasants leave the protection of the the Highwayman, a folk hero of Miyama. his reputation such that the north-south
shugo-daimyo. Quickly and viciously, Ichi, who lived 162 years ago, was loved trail through Miyama is traveled at one’s
bakemono overran the village, putting the by the commoners and despised by the peril. Still, he is intelligent enough to
men to the sword and enslaving the ruling class. Although in real life he was no recognize his own weaknesses.
women and children. Five years have more noble than most, he made his living
passed since this occurred. The bake- at the expense of the rich, powerful, and Several expeditions sent by the shugo-
mono have driven the game from the area pompous. Many a wealthy merchant, daimyo have burned the camps of T’an-
and are now forced to range further afield deceitful bonze (a wandering priest), and zao and occasionally fought with his
(the shrine at hex 1521 has been the sub- avaricious samurai was the victim of Ichi’s rearguard, but he has always chosen to
ject of several minor forays). justice. He never maintained a large band retreat before greater strength. To date he
of men, relying on spies in the towns and has never been caught.
Normally, the bakemono mura houses the friendliness of the peasants for his
62 bakemono and several leaders. The information and support. Neither was he T’an-zao’s camp is located in a rocky
creatures are organized into houses, one miserly, spending his ill-gotten gains freely gorge. Three sides are protected by large
to each compass point. Each house is and generously, further cementing his boulders and a wooden wall closes off the
responsible for the security of the village support among the down-trodden. front. His forces (and their commanders)
in that direction, thus the North House consist of the following:
defends the north, etc. The bakemono are Naturally, such a free spirit and per-
equipped as follows: verter of the social order could not be 40 light horsemen with spear and
allowed to remain free. Many efforts were brigandine (T’an-zao)
3 with katana made to capture and punish Ichi, but he
12 with naginata and short sword had an amazing ability to slip through the 80 light horsemen with sword, composite
25 with spear nets of the shugo-daimyo. At last he was shortbow, and padded armor (Huai &
6 with tetsubo and short sword cornered and driven to this stronghold Hanazo)
6 with short sword and shortbow with a small group of men (including the
3 with chain and shuriken monk Benzai). This small stockaded hut 150 footmen with spear and hara-ate-
7 with kurasi-gama and trident was put to the torch and Ichi and all with gawa (Ukaru, Gyogi, & Kiro)
him perished.
(AC 6; MV 6”; HD 1-1; #AT 1; Damage by 40 footmen with naginata and hara-ate
weapon type) Now many stories are told of Ichi and his (Wariunekuru)
exploits. With each retelling, his reputa-
The bakemono are led by a common oni tion becomes greater. He is described as a 40 unarmored footmen with daikyu (Futaii)
(AC 4; MV 9”; HD 8; hp 24; #AT 2; Damage clever rogue, slippery as a fish, a defender 40 footmen with katana and hara-ate-
3-10/3-10; SA spells) who also carries a of the common peasant, a clown, and the
+ 1 kumade he took off an unfortunate peasants’ Harlequin to the daimyos’ gawa (Soga Mikemono)
ninja. The oni is aided by four bakemono Guignot. There is even a story that he
lieutenants (HD 2; AC 4; Damage 1d8), escaped the fire of his last hideout and, T’an-zao, having a very military mind,
one for each house. These live in the cen- under a new identity, married the daughter has combined the tactics of his homeland
tral building of the mura. They are waited of a powerful samurai. He is a popular sub- with those of Kozakura. His cavalry is con-
upon by six slaves, peasant women they ject of puppet plays and singers, although stantly drilled and well-trained. The men
captured. when the village was overrun. not when performed for the nobility. are divided into units of 40 to 50 strong
The oni has a special bodyguard of 12 and are commanded by the following:
human children (AC 10; MV 12”; HD 1-1; The ruin of Ichi’s last stand is now noth-
#AT 1; Damage 1d6). Captured when they ing but a small grass-covered mound sur- Huai—barbarian, 7th level
were five to six years old, these children rounded by fire-scarred trees. Hanazo—fox hengeyokai bushi, 8th level
have been reared by the bakemono and Ukaru—korobokuru bushi, 7th level
the oni. Their lives have been hard and 1808 Gyogi—kensai, 5th level
they are almost totally wild and savage. Kiro—bushi, 6th level
They are armed with spears but are not Camp of T’an-zao the Gajin: Hidden in Wariunekuru—korobokuru barbarian,
allowed armor. Knowing no other life, they this valley is a large camp of 390 bandits.
are almost perfectly loyal to the oni. They are led by T’an-zao (barbarian, 15th 10th level
level) originally from the Plain of Horses Futaii—bushi, 6th level
The oni holds the treasure of the group, on the mainland of Kara-Tur. A brave trav- Soga Mikemono—spirit folk samurai, 5th
keeping it buried under his throne. The eler and explorer, he and his bodyguard
treasure is 2,000 fen and two scrolls were shipwrecked on the shores of Koza- level
(which none of the creatures can use). All kura 10 years ago. After escaping capture
other treasure the band has found has by a neighboring shugo-daimyo, T’an-zao In addition to his commanders, T’an-
rallied a group of malcontents and ex- zao has a bodyguard of 10 3d-level barbar-
ians, all survivors of the shipwreck which
27 brought him here. Since they are for-
eigners to Kozakura, they are utterly loyal
to him. Also among T’an-zao’s entourage
is an old man, known only as Aged One
(wu jen, 10th level, specializes in earth
spells).

1906 2207 2213

Deserted Graveyard: Once there was a Arita Village: This village has a popula- The Mountain of Iron: This region of
small temple and mura in this vicinity. Both tion of 396 people of all ages (83 build- Miyama once produced a modest quantity
have long since vanished. The only sign of ings). In the past it was a happy and quiet of low-quality iron ore. In most places it
human habitation is the remains of a farming village, the gathering point for the was never profitable or possible to extract
graveyard. This place has an evil reputa- local peasants who send their goods sufficent ore to warrant the effort. In this
tion and no local will approach it at night. downstream and the merchants who area, however, large quantities of ore were
come from Okahira. near the surface, and the Mountain of Iron
2020 (as it was known) was mined heavily. How-
Recently, however, Arita has come ever, 150 years ago the quantities of ore
Bandit Camp: This camp is a second- under the sway of the hu hsien who dwindled as the veins slowly tapped out.
ary base of T’an-zao (1808)—part of his occupy the outpost at 2208. Shortly after Gradually the miners and the towns they
preparations for any eventuality. The seizing control of the tower, the hu hsien built disappeared and the mining ceased
camp is a wooden stockade set just below sent one of their kind to the village. altogether. Now all that is left are the crum-
the crest of a forested hill overlooking the Through trickery he slew the myoshu and bling ruins of their homes and the collaps-
trail. Currently the camp is garrisoned by took his place. Now he and the hu hsien of ing mine shafts.
10 1st-level bushi, led by Onagata (bushi, the tower are pillaging the village and the
8th level). Their duty is simply to protect surrounding area under the guise of Mysteriously, some of these shafts now
the camp and maintain the buildings. As a proper authority. The villagers still believe go to greater depths than the miners ever
group the bushi are lazy and have no love that the hu hsien are their proper overlords reached. Something, some unknown
of Onagata, who is a vicious martinet. and have submitted to these injustices— agency, has been extending them—going
for now. However, the situation is a pow- deeper and longer—slowly spreading
2106 derkeg. The hu hsien are becoming more them like a net under the Kurisammyaku.
and more avaricious but are finding less Fell creatures have been sighted in the
Konjo Subscriber Temple: This small and less, while the villagers are only await- area of the old shafts. If given evidence of
temple is built on a rocky outcropping and ing a strong leader to inspire and lead the activity in the area, the shugo-daimyo
has a magnificent view of the distant sea. them. will order troops to build a watchtower
The temple is a branch of the provincial overlooking the Mountain of Iron as a pre-
temple to the south. It has only recently 2208 caution.
been established (seven years ago) by
Godokyo (shukenja, 8th level), who has Tower of the Hu Hsien: This fortified 2214
decided it is time to settle down. The tem- tower was an outpost of the Niwa clan,
ple has no monastery and only has a staff built to keep watch over the northern end Chitu Village: Once the main village of
of 18 priests. It also maintains a force of 29 of the Kurisammyaku Pass. A few weeks the miners who worked the Mountain of
sohei. Although adjacent to a Konjo ago, however, a band of eight hu hsien (AC Iron, Chizu is now a decaying village of
shoen, the manager of that estate has 7; MV 15”; HD 6; #AT 1; Damage 1d8; SA 134 souls. Since the collapse of the min-
refused to move his headquarters to the spells; SD +3 weapons or better to hit, ing industry, more and more people have
temple. This has led to minor squabbling regeneration; MR 50%) seized the tower, been leaving the village. Visitors now see
and feuding between those of the temple slaughtering all the occupants. The crea- a village of squalor and poverty. The outly-
and those of the estate. Each maintains a tures then assumed the forms of the com- ing buildings have been long aban-
watchful eye on the moves of the other. mander of the garrison, Maeda Kori, and doned—their roof beams sag and their
his lieutenants. One of them also slew and thatch rots. Closer to the center, more of
2206 assumed the role of the myoshu of Arita. the buildings are occupied. Ragged and
dirty-faced women peer from behind sag-
Takeo Village: This village has 288 peo- Since the garrison is seldom visited and ging shutters and naked brats occasion-
ple of all ages. It is a peaceful place, the reports are still being sent out, no one at ally dart across the street. The men of the
headquarters of the Niwa shoen on which Okahira has yet realized the vile decep- village look sad and broken, their dreams
it stands. The shoen, though large, is a tion. In the meantime, the hu hsien have and hopes shattered as they toil to eke out
quiet estate with many sites of natural been requisitioning all foodstuffs and a miserable existence. These are people
beauty. Consequently, the jito position of goods in the area and further fortifying who have had the spirit ground out of them
the shoen is often given as a reward to their outpost. They hope to be able to hold by hard fate and cruel taskmasters.
older and distinguished samurai. off any attackers once they are discov-
ered. Finally, they feel that if they fail, they Furthermore, the people of the village
The current jito of the estate is Daidoji can always assume fox form and slip away lack the will to resist the new arrivals in the
Razan (samurai, 9th level), an aged man during the confusion. village. Bakemono and goblin rats openly
of 80 years. He is hardly a doddering old occupy the houses on the edge of the vil-
fool, however. Although well past his phys- The tower itself is a three-story wooden lage. Some came from the mines under
ical prime, he is still able to lead an army structure surrounded by an earthwork the Kurisammyaku, others gravitated here
on campaign, break a horse, swim a river, embankment. In front of the embankment from the wooded hills. Word has spread
and wield a sword with the best of them. is a ditch 20 feet wide and seven feet through their communities of the fatalism
He does not tolerate comments on his age deep. On the floor of the ditch are abatis of of the Chizu villagers, attracting the
and supposed feebleness, considering bamboo and wood. unwholesome like a plague.
them insults.
28 The situation is made no better by the

incompetence and venality of the jito of ever want to). It seldom causes much ance. He is desperate to become a pupil of
this Hori shoen, Fukuda Sueji (samurai, damage, being far from civilization and a kensai or other warrior to learn the fight-
7th level). He has absolutely no interest or peacefully inclined by nature. ing arts. He will attempt to convince any
compassion for the peasants of his shoen, adventurers that they should eradicate the
concerned only with his own luxuries and 2511 monsters who destroyed his village. Of
personal advancement. course, he has nothing to offer. The seven-
Bingo Village: This village, set in the year-old boy with him, known only as Little
2215 shadow of Pine Tree Mountain, has a pop- Child, is unnaturally quiet, no longer
ulation of 470. Located at the base of a engaging in the boisterous play of little
The Bakemono Shrine: A little way off major farming valley, it is a collection point children.
this seldom-traveled path is an old and for the rent and taxes collected farther up
stately temple. Originally a subscriber tem- in the mountains. Built to handle these 2608
ple of the Kanchai sect, the place was goods are two large godown, constantly
neglected by its superiors with the decline watched by a sentry. These godown are The Temple of Purification: The town
of the Mountain of Iron. Now it is looked loaded primarily with rice, but other goods of Okahira is one of the famous sites of the
after by a middle-aged shukenja (12th include cloth, tea, iron ore, and even some Kanchai religion. Here it was that the
level) who is quite blind. This has not, how- gold and silver ore. It is rumored among founder of the school spent many years in
ever, impaired his abilities, rather it has the underworld and outcasts that even contemplation. It has become a popular
sharpened his spiritual perception. He greater treasures are hidden in these goal for Kanchai pilgrims. These pilgrims
arrived at this temple nearly a year ago and godown. must ritually purify themselves before
sensed that it was a worthy place to rest entering the town, so as not to sully the
from his travels. Since taking up residence, Bingo is also the headquarters for the holy ground where their founder walked.
he has engaged in teaching the precepts of Niwa shoen on which it stands. Living in a Built well away from town, the temple is
his faith to the few who come by. fine home, attended by 20 servants, is where the pilgrims stop and complete their
Naoki Katasube (samurai, 7th level). He is purification.
Currently he has only a handful of stu- an indolent and spendthrift fellow, prefer-
dents, and most peculiar ones at that. Two ring to live in great luxury rather than risk The temple is manned by a staff of 16
arrive each morning bringing gifts of fruit his life against various dangers. caretakers, all followers of the Kanchai
and sake. They patiently recite sutras and school. During the summer months, there
copy various holy books for the blind shu- He has also run up a huge debt with the are also 2d10 shukenja and 10d6 pilgrims
kenja. These students are not human, moneylenders and yakuza of Okahira. To present. In the winter, there are 1d6 shu-
they are monkeys—two lesser nature spir- reveal his debt would bring an end to his kenja and 2d8 pilgrims. The temple is
its of the world of animals. The shukenja is good living and shame him before his lord, headed by Ninkai, a serious-minded
aware that his students are different, so he has resorted to doctoring the elderly sea spirit folk. He has a natural bril-
though he does not realize just how differ- accounts of all shipments entering the liance for oratory and rhetoric and delivers
ent. The two monkey spirits are faithfully Niwa godown here (for which he is respon- most of the sermons.
devoted to their master, for whom they sible). Even with goods stolen from these
hold great affection. rents and taxes, he is only managing to go Pilgrims come to the temple for purifica-
further into debt. tion before entering Okahira. This act con-
Nighttime brings the shukenja’s second sists of fasting, hot and cold baths, and
group of students, a small band of 16 Naoki Katasube has at his command meditation. The process takes two days.
bakemono from the nearby hills. Originally one samurai (2d level) and 30 bushi (1st At the end of this time, the pilgrim is given
they came to torment the shukenja but, level). None of them are aware of his ille- a yellow robe to wear into the town, show-
impressed by his holiness, now receive gal activities. ing his mission. The robes are to be
instruction at his feet. The shukenja is well returned when the pilgrim leaves Okahira.
aware that these students are creatures of 2513 Pilgrims are expected to make a donation
the other world, but does not refuse them. to the temple in return for these services.
His choice is risky. The bakemono are Ruins of Hayashiro village: Once
favorably inclined to him but are not pre- standing on this spot was the small but 2615
dictable in their behavior. prosperous village of Hayashiro. Now ail
that remains are a few scorched buildings Huts of the Shan Sao: Deep in the
2422 and the blackened stumps of others. Two thickest part of this valley forest is a small
years ago the village was attacked by clearing. Built around the edges are 17
The Great Cave: Yawning open in the creatures coming down out of the moun- bamboo huts. Although quite primitive in
mountainside is a huge cave mouth. The tains. In a bloody night raid, they slaugh- design, what is more exceptional about
ground outside is scattered with broken tered all the occupants, looted the them is their tiny size. These are the huts
trees and crushed bones. The cave reeks buildings and set the village afire. Only the of 27 shan sao. The local farmers and
of a foul stench. Living here is a humanoid fortunate timing of a midnight rainstorm hunters know of the presence of shan sao
gargantua (AC 4; MV 21”; HD 35; hp 152; saved the few remaining buildings. in this valley and carefully avoid them, par-
#AT 2; Damage 4d10/4d10; SA trample; tially out of respect but mainly out of fear.
SD regeneration). The beast has lived Although the village was destroyed, In turn, the shan sao secretly aid the peas-
here for almost a century. The villagers there were two survivors: a small boy and ants of the area: they lure game into traps
know of it through rumor as the “Mon- a young man who had been gone for the or drive it before hunters, keep animals
sta!”; none have ever seen it (not that they night. Each has adopted the other and out of the fields, etc. The two groups, the
they now live in one of the charred houses.
The young man, Nichu, thirsts for venge-

29

shan sao and the peasants, have a deli- the Naifu yakuza are working to spread The shugo-matadai has created many
cately balanced relationship. On the rare more dissent among the common folk, rules in an attempt to destroy the yakuza
occasions when a peasant offends the shan becoming the de facto leaders of the grow- kumi. First and foremost, no one other than
sao, they withdraw their aid and support, ing rebellion. For both sides, the situation samurai and the soldiers of the shugo-
much to the dismay of all the peasants. is ready to explode. daimyo are authorized to carry swords or
similar weapons. Violators are subject to
Scattered throughout their huts, the shan Seafront Ward: This ward of 19 blocks is imprisonment. The ward is under a strict
sao have 3,000 fen, 3,000 yuan, and two the strongest center of Hu Chien’s reforms. sundown curfew and passes are required
gold and jade statuettes (three ch’ien each). He has been able to establish a power base to leave any given block. The merchants of
These have been left by the villagers as among the foreign merchants and sailors the ward, none of them foreign, are subject
offerings to the shan sao. living in here. Many of the foreigners to special taxes and restrictions. They are
arrived at his request and rely on Kadoka- not allowed to stock certain merchandise—
2708 wa’s protection. Local merchants hate tea, pearls, gold, silver, or silk. All such
these foreigners because they steal busi- goods are handled by the foreign traders.
Okahira: Okahira is the largest town on ness and receive special tax privileges. They cannot load or unload goods from
the northern coast of Miyama province, ships without special licenses. They cannot
with a population of 6,732 people of all Unfortunately there is little they can do ship goods out of Okahira without special
ages and races. The town is divided into about the situation. At first they attempted licenses. All these permissions and
three wards: the Seafront Ward, the High- to protest to Kadokawa. He arrested and licenses cost money, enriching the coffers
way Ward, and the Nobles’ Ward. Okahira executed the spokesmen of the protest of Kadokawa and Hu Chien.
is ruled by Hiro Yoshitoki (samurai, 15th and fined the remaining merchants heav-
level), the shugodai of the area. A drab ily. Since then, their activity has been lim- The Noble Ward: This small ward of four
and colorless fellow, he is rarely in attend- ited to secret support of the Naifu yakuza. blocks houses most of the town’s nobility.
ance, spending most of his time at the In this area the yakuza attempt to destroy Included in this ward are the homes of
bakufu capitol. the goods of foreign merchants and keep Kadokawa and his retainers, the Hiro
laborers away from their doors. Their tac- household (normally run by the chamber-
In Hire Yoshitoki’s absence, the town is tics include arson, beatings, illegal gam- lain), and the home of Hu Chien. This
governed by a council headed by Kado- bling games, extortions, and occasionally home, not far from Kadokawa’s, is a small
kawa Shigetada (samurai, 12th level), the murder. In retaliation, the shugo-matadai but richly embellished affair. Within the
shugo-matadai of the town. Of late, Kado- has declared a strict curfew and issued walls of Hu Chien’s compound is his per-
kawa has fallen under the influence of a passes that are necessary to enter or sonal guard—10 barbarians (6th level)
gajin wu jen, Hu Chien (14th level). leave the Seafront Ward. Those found in and 200 bushi (1st level). Hu Chien is very
Through Kadokawa, Hu Chien has been violation are bound to pilings in the harbor secretive about this bodyguard, even
introducing many foreign ideas, much to during the low tide. though Kadokawa is well aware of it. What
the consternation of the local peasants is not known to Kadokawa is that Hu Chien
and nobles. Ideas he has introduced Unknown to Kadokawa, Hu Chien is is secretly bringing troops into the Sea-
include new taxes, restrictions on dress building a secret garrison in the Seafront front Ward. Once he has gathered enough
and weaponry, new titles used when Ward. Entering under the guise of sailors, men (2,000 or more), he will attempt a
addressing the shugo-matadai, and more. soldiers of the Shou Lung empire are sta- coup, overthrowing Kadokawa and install-
Others are convinced there is some terri- tioned in the warehouses of foreign mer- ing himself as ruler. At the same time, he
ble evil being plotted with these regula- chants in league with Hu Chien. Currently will attempt to seize Hiro Castle by sur-
tions, but have not been able to see there are 800 Shou Lung soldiers (1st- prise. Failing that, he will cut its communi-
through Hu Chien’s plan. level bushi) in the ward. Every week 10d6 cation with the south and attempt to
more enter via the merchant traffic. reinforce his small army with troops from
Kadokawa is completely enamored with overseas. Unknown to all but Hu Chien is
Hu Chien and his ideas, so much so that The Highway Ward: This ward, enclos- that these actions are the orders of the
he will not even hear the slightest criticism ing 15 small blocks, is the heart of the Great Emperor Chin of Shou Lung.
of Hu Chien. To make matters worse, garri- Naifu kumi, the area of the city where the
soned in the town are 1,038 bushi and 123 yakuza are the most powerful and best 2709
samurai of various levels, all under the supported. During the day, the streets are
command of Kadokawa. With these, he ruled by the forces of the shugo-matadai; Sumomo-jo: Located at the base of
has been able to enforce his new ideas, at night, the yakuza openly run their gam- Sumomo-yama are the remains of
reigning by terror and the sword. bling games and swagger through the Sumomo Castle. Built by the militarily
lanes. Here they have the strong support incompetent governor Tsu Miiya, this
Indeed, the only effective protector of of the locals, especially the merchants impressive-looking castle was never an
the common people left in Okahira is squeezed by the new regulations of Kado- effective fortification. There were several
Naifu’s yakuza kumi. This is the only kawa. Most importantly, the merchants flaws with the castle’s location. It stood on
yakuza group in town, having long since shelter the yakuza from the sweeps of the the valley floor instead of the end of
driven out all competition. The kumi num- soldiery. Naifu’s headquarters is located in Sumono-yama. It was too far back from
bers 420 yakuza of all levels and is led by this ward. The name Naifu is known to all the two streams that bracket it, rendering
the oyabun Naifu. The gang has never had as the oyabun of the kumi, but only a few them ineffective in its defense. It was too
any love of the shugo-daimyo’s troops and know who he really is. Lately the kumi has far from Okahira for the garrison to aid in
now has new reasons to hate them. Sev- become suspicious of certain sailors in the
eral attempts were made to destroy the Seafront Ward and is watching them for
Naifu kumi, none successful. As a result, more information.

30

the defense of the town and it did not block itors, though most of those who do visit are have exceptional promise to be accepted.
movement on the trails in the area. hardy Kanchai pilgrims who are stopping Currently there are 17 monks (various
at Okahira. Thus the caretakers, an old
Given all its flaws, it is surprising that it man and his wife, lead a quiet, rustic life. levels) and nine nuns (monks, various
was able to resist at all! Taken for the Niwa Also staying at the shrine for an indefinite levels). The monastery section is headed
family when they were consolidating their period of time is Pien-Hung (shukenja, 7th by Kazan (monk, 17th level). His counter-
grip on the province, the Hiro family led level). Wan and sickly when he arrived, he part in the nunnery is Kitashi (monk, 16th
the assault and were rewarded with per- says he came for the sea air and peaceful level). Each supervises the training of
mission to supervise and maintain a fortifi- surroundings. These seem to have agreed those of lesser rank. Kazan has only
cation in the Okahira area (Hiro Castle). with him, for he is now in quite robust recently become the head of the monas-
Much of the stone of Hiro Castle was taken health. Quiet and respectful, Pien-Hung tery, while Kitashi has held her post for
from the Sumono-jo. All that remains of radiates an aura of cheer and good nature. many years. There is a cooperative but
the castle are the foundations and some lively rivalry between the two. This feeling
as-yet-undiscovered cellars. 2913 affects their students, making the training
sessions both fun and intense.
2808 Kanchai Temple: The temple is one of
the first founded by the Kanchai school. 2916
Hiro Castle: Built with the permission of Because it is outside the imperial capital,
the Niwa family, this castle is garrisoned the temple is not the seat of the Kanchai Kanchai Tomb: At the end of this nar-
and maintained by their close ally, the Hiro religion. It is, however, the provincial tem- row valley is a small monument hidden
family. Situated on the slopes of Shiroi-ni- ple of Miyama Province. The temple is among the rice paddies. This marks the
Kaiga-yama, the castle has a fine view of located in the wooded groves near the tomb of the founder of the Kanchai school.
Okahira and its harbor. Central to the for- heart of this Kanchai shoen. The founder The tomb is virtually unmarked, bearing
tress is the white-washed four-story tower, of the Kanchai school spent his final years only a short poem describing the beauty of
the main building of the castle. Connected here. the fields. Only a few pilgrims learn of its
to this are three smaller towers enclosed whereabouts and come to pay a respectful
by a 40-foot-high wall. Outside this wall There are separate managements for visit to their master. Two to four times a
are two more walls and a dry moat the temple, shoen, and monastery. The year, a group from the Kanchai Temple
spanned by an arched stone bridge. temple is headed by Goryu (shukenja, comes to repair any damage. The site is
Although the Hiro family maintains a com- 20th level), who has chosen this place to deserted otherwise. This is the way the
pound in Okahira, the bulk of the family retire after many years of traveling. He founder wanted things and his wishes
and its retainers reside in this castle. handles the administration of temple have been obeyed for centuries.
buildings and grounds, copying of holy
Garrisoning the structure are 800 bushi texts, instruction of young pupils, religious 3018
and 200 samurai (most of 1st level). The needs of the peasantry, accommodation
commander of the garrison is the highest of pilgrims, preparations for holy days, Cave of the Kuei: This cave was once
ranking Hiro family member in attend- and delivery of sermons. To assist him, he the camp of Zaku the Bandit, a wicked and
ance. Under most circumstances, this is has a staff of 25 shukenja of various levels horribly cruel highwayman. Using this as a
Hiro Ieyuki (samurai, 10th level). He is the and 10 servants. Much to his dismay, his base of operations, he raided the Northern
half-brother of the head of the Hiro family retirement has become more work than Plain and other nearby provinces. Now
and is entrusted with the responsibility for his wandering life of poverty ever was. He haunting the cave is the kuei of one of his
the castle. Hiro Ieyuki is loyal to his family is now obliged to continue his work, hav- unfortunate victims—a young woman who
and generally quite responsible. Lately, he ing willingly accepted the position. was about to be married (AC -4; MV 18”;
has been approached by emissaries of Hu HD 4; hp 18; #AT 1; Damage 1d8; SA pos-
Chien (hex 2708, Okahira), who is trying to The shoen is managed by the com- session; SD spells; MR 10%; AL LG).
find a weakness in the castle defense. mander of the sohei, Toragawa (sohei,
Hiro Ieyuki, who has no love for what is 16th level). As both the commander of a As a kuei this woman is compelled to
happening in Okahira, is leading Hu Chien troop of 500 sohei and the manager of a possess the body of another woman, so
along, trying to learn more information. sizable estate, he has little time for either. that she can complete her marriage oath.
Preferring to retain a strong control over Having died centuries ago, her intended is
2908 his men, he delegates most of the shoen no longer alive. If she marries into his fam-
management to his lieutenants. Most of ily, however, her oath will be fulfilled.
Shrine of the Setting Sun: Built on pil- his time is spent in drilling his men and
ings in the area of shore between high and defending the wilderness borders. To aid her in this task, she knows the
low tide is a large two-story shrine. This location of Zaku’s treasure cache of gold
shrine is aligned so its main entrance The monastery is divided into a monas- and silver objects worth 500 ch’ien. This
faces due west, in the direction of the set- tery and a nunnery. Both provide instruc- she will reveal only to her intended, whom
ting sun. Set further out in the waves is the tion in the mental and physical secrets of she knows lives in Okahira. Upon seeing
red-painted torii (gate arch), built so the the Kanchai school to a limited number of any character possessed by her spirit, this
evening sun shines directly through it. pupils. The selection of pupils is normally young man falls in love with her. His par-
done once a year when eager applicants ents, impressed by her wealth and grace,
The shrine was built to honor the pass- arrive to be tested. Standards are strict and consent to the marriage. Once married,
ing of the Heavenly Sun Goddess for only a few are accepted. Applicants are the kuei remains in possession for one
another day. The shrine is hard to get to considered at other times, but they must year. Then, its oath fulfilled, it departs in
and it does not have a great number of vis- peace forever.
31

NAMES GLOSSARY the larger inner gate, slowing the
advance of attackers.
Oriental characters usually have many To help you add color and detail to your Minka — A traditional peasant house
different names that depend on their age, Kozakuran campaign, the following glos- Mura — A small village community
their profession, their family, etc. (see sary of words and terms is provided. Some Ni-no-maru — The second or middle
page 141 in the Oriental Adventures of these are used in the province and courtyard of a castle
adventure books and are defined here for Nishiki-e — A colored woodcut
book). your convenience. Ote-mon — The main gate of a castle
Given below are several lists of names Pagoda — A multi-storied tower of wood
Bakufu —The headquarters and capital or stone, dedicated to a deity
suitable for use in Kozakura. The names of the shogun’s government Sakadono — A special temple building for
are organized into family, male, female, brewing sake used in ceremonies
religious, and artistic groupings. All the Benkan — A jeweled headpiece of the Sake — Rice wine
names are historical and you might find emperor San-no-maru — The third or outer court-
that you recognize some of them. yard of a castle
Byobu — A folding screen Sento — A public bathhouse
Family Male Female Chichi — Father Shoen — An estate or fief
Ajiro Akahito Abutsu Chodai — A curtained sleeping platform Shoji — Sliding doors covered with paper
Anteki Haru Dotaku — A bronze bell in a latticed wooden frame
Arihara Arihito Inoe Emakimono — A picture scroll Sutra — Religious scriptures, usually as
Asukai Asakari Iratsume Fusuma — A sliding wall short sayings or dialogues
Emi Azumabito Ishihime Geisha — A courtesan trained in the arts Takuhatsu — The life of poverty adopted
Chomei Juteini by some shukenja
Fujiwara Chuemon Kiku and accorded high prestige Tamon — A roofed building set atop the
Hara Gohei Kishi Godown — Storehouse, particularly for castle wall and used as a barracks or
Heishiro Kitashi storehouse
Ito Kinnori Matsukaze rice or other grains Tatami — A three foot by six foot woven
Izumi Kiyosuke Murasame Haka — Burial mound mat used as flooring in houses. Rooms
Masaaki Sei Hi no goza — The raised platform of the are normally measured by the number
Joboji Masutsune Seishi of tatami mats they contain.
Kamo Minbu Take emperor Tenno — Emperor
Mitsuhiro Tamamo Hoden — A treasure house Tenshu-kaku — The main tower of a cas-
Kanokobata Mitsune Tokiwa Hon-maru — The innermost castle court- tle
Karasuma Motoharu Toshi Tofu — A staple food made from the con-
Ki Munesada Yuki yard gealed protein of soybeans
Kitamuki Oshikatsu Hyakkan — Court officials Torii — The pillared red gate-arch at the
Makabe Sabero Religious Hyakusho — The nonsamurai classes: entrance to a shrine
Sanekata Benkei Uguisi-bari — Nightingale floor, made
Minamoto Tadahiro Buccho farmers, artisans, merchants, entertain- with boards that creak or squeak when
Naito Tadanobu Daiten ers, etc. stepped on
Takakatsu Eigen Ishiotoshi — Chutes built on castle para- Uji no choja — The head of a family or
Nasu Tamenaka Eisei pets for dropping stones on the enemy clan
Nijo Tanan Hoshin Inkan — A personal seal for documents
Tomonori Kenbutsu and letters BIBLIOGRAPHY
Ono Toshichiro Kukai Izumi-dono — A water pavilion, a small
Oshikochi Toyo Moritake building built over the water of a garden Akiyama, Nobuo & Carol. Japanese at a
Toyoaki Shoku pond for entertaining Glance
Otomo Tsugunobu Soha Jo — Ward, a section of a city
Ozeki Tsurayuki Ungo Kakemono — A vertical picture scroll Arnesen, Peter Judd. The Medieval Japa-
Umakai Kamidana — A household shrine nese Daimyo: The Ouchi Family’s Rule
Rokuso Unchiku Artistic Kanshofu — A charter granting a sho of Suo and Nagato
Sato Yakamochi Basho Koburi — A headdress reserved for those
Yasuhira Buson of 5th Birth Rank and above Baedeker’s Japan
Tachibana Yoichi Gasson Kodo — The porch section of a temple Batchelor, Rev. John. The Ainu of Japan
Todo Yoshihide Henjo Kofun — A burial mound Buruma, Ian. Behind the Mask
Tokugawa Yoshimoto Kikaku Kongo rikishi — Guardian figures at the Hall, John Whitney. Government and
Yamabe Yoshitada Kyorai entrance to a temple
Yoshimine Yoshitomo Saigyo Kotatsu — A small brazier found in many Local Power in Japan
Yoshitsune Sampo homes used for warming the sleeping Kitabatake Chikafusa (H. Paul Varley,
Yoshitune Sengin quilts
Yukihira Sobo Kugyo — High Court Nobles, those of 1st tran.). A Chronicle of Gods and Sover-
Yukinari Soin through 3d Birth Ranks eigns
Teitoku Kura — A fireproof storehouse Schmorleitz, Morton S. Castles in Japan
Tosei Makimono — A horizontal picture scroll Wurman, Richard Saul. Tokyo Access
Maru — A castle courtyard
Masugata — A double gate; the outer gate
is small and set at a right angle to

32