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A Guide toRokugani Heraldry

1

1by David Horne
http://epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/view.pl?id=123380

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Heraldry in Rokugan is less formal than heraldry in the West. All samurai

sworn to a Clan wear the mon, or Clan symbols and colours. Nobles often wear a

kamishimo or small vest over the kimono that bears the mon, on formal occasions.

A samurai wear his Clans mon the back, and the mon of his Family on his left

sleeve close to his heart, or his right sleeve to guide his sword.

A samurai usually incorporates his Clans colours into his formal clothing;

private clothing tends to be drab grays and browns. Samurai often wear hats for

formal occasions, which can be very simple or very extravagant, depending upon

the wearers mood.

Heraldry can be broken by Clan, Family, house and individual. Typically,

heraldry is done by a combination of two colours: a dark, and a light. The crest of

the Family is a simple, elegant design intended to symbolically identify that housewithin the Great Clan to which it owes fealty. Usually, the colours are the same as

the Clans, differing only in intensity and hue. Each major Family has its own mon,

and each vassal Family has a variation of that major Familys mon. This can

become extremely complex, particularly for a courtier who attempts to determine if

an approaching bad of bushi are friend or foe.

Many of the motifs represented in the mon are based on nature, particularly

animals with which the Clan identifies to (the Crab, the Scorpion, etc.). The

Imperial mon is the Chrysanthemum, and only members of the direct Hantei line

may wear that particular crest. Other representatives of the Emperor wear the crest

of his Emerald Champion, the laurel wreath.

The Imperial Court often flies flags over the current residence of the

Emperor, to show his authority. These flags, known as ban, bear the Imperial mon,

followed by the mon of the Clan and Family hosting the Emperor.

Another type of ban is the smaller, rectangular-shaped banners carried

during travel, or on the field. These ban, known as hata, are the source of the

respected office of hatamoto, or banner bearers, for such advisors carry of the

daimyos words to the rest of his Clan.

It is not unusual for a samurai to be granted his own mon by his daimyo.

Such things arise for notable honour or courage, and are not passed from father to

son. To be granted ones own mon is a personal honour, one which speaks highly

of the samurai. If the samurai is particularly impressive, the mon may be extended

to his house, and from there, to any vassals the samurai procures.

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Example: If you were to see the mon of a lesser samurai, Shosuro Juti, it

might follow this format: The top of his banner displays the mon of his Clan (the

Scorpion). Jutis own kimono would represent the colours and mon of his house,

the Shosuro. If a viewing courtier looked more closely, she would notice a smaller

mon on the sleeve of his kimono that stated his name (Juti).2

The mon is not just the symbol of the people currently in the Clan. It also

represents the souls of all the ancestors of the Clan, and therefore the mon should

never be treated with disrespect. To do so would insult all the ancestors of that

house or Family.

When a samurai wears the mon of his Clan he always wears it on his back

as a gesture of respect. The Family mon can be worn over the left shoulder so his

ancestors are closer to his heart or over the right shoulder so they can guide his

sword arm.3

The general Sun Tao once said that when a samurai sees himself

surrounded by a sea of his Clans colours, he cannot fail, and when he sees the

horizon blanketed in a sea of his enemys colours, he truly knows defeat. It is thus

that every Great and Minor Clan has colours that symbolize membership in their

Clan. A samurais armour will always be crafted in the colours of his Clan, as will

most of his courtly attire. While it is not expressly forbidden for a samurai to wear

other colours in more casual settings, most wear their Clans colours as often as

possible as a sign of loyalty.4

2Winter Court - Kyuden Seppun, p. 57-58

3Way of the Crane, p. 22

4Legend of the Five Rings 3

rdEdition revised core rulebook, p. 72

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5

5by Jason Engle
http://www.jaestudio.com/Banner%20of%20Peace.jpg

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Sources and Credits

Sources and Explanations

This document is a fan-made supplement for the Legend of the Five Rings

setting. While it is not official all the information, save the introductory texts, is

canon and referenced.

This document is a compilation of information on heraldry. Heraldry is not

just mon and chops. It is also about colours, shapes and words. Mon are the

immerged part of the iceberg, but there are numerous ways to properly show, and

discover, ones allegiance. The intent of this document is to show all aspects of

Rokugani heraldry. All pictures present an iconic aspect of heraldry in Rokugan, be

it a banner, armour or kimono.

The text information is from, in no particular order: the Way of

clanbooks (Crab, Crane, Dragon, Lion, Phoenix, Scorpion, Unicorn, Minor Clans,Shadowlands, Brotherhood of Shinsei and Wolf), Secrets of the Crab, Secrets of

the Dragon, Legend of the Five Rings 3rd Edition revised core rulebook,

Bearers of Jade, Winter Court - Kyuden Seppun, Way of the Shugenja,

Way of the Samurai and from the fiction To Change the World by Rich Wulf.

The art in this file are the sole property of Alderac Entertainment Group

and their authors:Christopher Appel,Steve Argyle,Drew Baker,Miguel Coimbra,

Edwin David,John Donahue,Jason Engle,David Horne, Ijur,Jaime Jones,Okita

and Bagus Hutomoto from Imaginary Friends Studios, Michael Komarck,Lasahido, April Lee, Glen Osterberger, Terekjet, Charles Urbach and Mario

Wibisono. Art pieces have a link to their Internet location or at least to the artists

website when pin-pointing was not possible the piece.

The pictures of mon in this document are from four different websites:

Heroes of Rokugan,The Jade Hand,Evans Ville Gaming Guild and L5RWikia,

and an artistSpookyElectric. A few mon are personal creations.
http://www.alderac.com/http://www.alderac.com/http://www.chrisappel.com/http://www.chrisappel.com/http://www.chrisappel.com/http://www.steveargyle.com/http://www.steveargyle.com/http://www.steveargyle.com/http://www.drewbaker.com/http://www.drewbaker.com/http://www.drewbaker.com/http://www.miguelcoimbra.com/http://www.miguelcoimbra.com/http://www.miguelcoimbra.com/http://dwin.octographics.net/gallery/l5r/index.htmlhttp://dwin.octographics.net/gallery/l5r/index.htmlhttp://www.linkedin.com/pub/john-donahue/2/16/52bhttp://www.linkedin.com/pub/john-donahue/2/16/52bhttp://www.linkedin.com/pub/john-donahue/2/16/52bhttp://www.jaestudio.com/http://www.jaestudio.com/http://epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=19190http://epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=19190http://epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=19190http://ijur.deviantart.com/gallery/http://ijur.deviantart.com/gallery/http://ijur.deviantart.com/gallery/http://www.epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=976http://www.epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=976http://www.epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=976http://luches.deviantart.com/http://luches.deviantart.com/http://luches.deviantart.com/http://www.imaginaryfs.com/Artist_profile_POPO.htmlhttp://www.imaginaryfs.com/Artist_profile_POPO.htmlhttp://www.imaginaryfs.com/Index.htmlhttp://www.imaginaryfs.com/Index.htmlhttp://www.komarckart.com/http://www.komarckart.com/http://lasahido.deviantart.com/http://lasahido.deviantart.com/http://aprillee.tripod.com/index.htmlhttp://aprillee.tripod.com/index.htmlhttp://www.glenosterberger.com/http://www.glenosterberger.com/http://terekjet.deviantart.com/http://terekjet.deviantart.com/http://www.angelfire.com/id/hawkrune/http://www.angelfire.com/id/hawkrune/http://www.mariowibisono.com/index.phphttp://www.mariowibisono.com/index.phphttp://www.mariowibisono.com/index.phphttp://heroes-of-rokugan.com/index.htmlhttp://heroes-of-rokugan.com/index.htmlhttp://www.jadehand.com/http://www.jadehand.com/http://www.jadehand.com/http://www.evansvillegamingguild.com/rpgs/l5r/lotus_mon.phphttp://www.evansvillegamingguild.com/rpgs/l5r/lotus_mon.phphttp://www.evansvillegamingguild.com/rpgs/l5r/lotus_mon.phphttp://l5r.wikia.com/wiki/Monhttp://l5r.wikia.com/wiki/Monhttp://sp00kyelectric.deviantart.com/http://sp00kyelectric.deviantart.com/http://sp00kyelectric.deviantart.com/http://sp00kyelectric.deviantart.com/http://l5r.wikia.com/wiki/Monhttp://www.evansvillegamingguild.com/rpgs/l5r/lotus_mon.phphttp://www.jadehand.com/http://heroes-of-rokugan.com/index.htmlhttp://www.mariowibisono.com/index.phphttp://www.mariowibisono.com/index.phphttp://www.angelfire.com/id/hawkrune/http://terekjet.deviantart.com/http://www.glenosterberger.com/http://aprillee.tripod.com/index.htmlhttp://lasahido.deviantart.com/http://www.komarckart.com/http://www.imaginaryfs.com/Index.htmlhttp://www.imaginaryfs.com/Artist_profile_POPO.htmlhttp://luches.deviantart.com/http://www.epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=976http://ijur.deviantart.com/gallery/http://epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=19190http://www.jaestudio.com/http://www.linkedin.com/pub/john-donahue/2/16/52bhttp://dwin.octographics.net/gallery/l5r/index.htmlhttp://www.miguelcoimbra.com/http://www.drewbaker.com/http://www.steveargyle.com/http://www.chrisappel.com/http://www.alderac.com/

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In accordance with the timeline neutrality approach of the 4th

Edition of the

Legend of the Five Rings role-playing game, choices were made:

The old Hiruma Family is considered gone with the death of Hiruma

Sokokai and the loss of the advanced techniques of the Hiruma Family, in 755 of

the Isawa calendar; the Hiruma Castle fell to the Shadowlands in 716.

The Yasuki Family is associated to both the Crab and Crane Clan, eachClan getting a specific version.

The Minor Clans who joined a Great Clan: Centipede, Falcon, Fox and

Wasp, are recorded with the Great Clan they joined but get a double title, as

Family and Minor Clan.

The Agasha Family is presented in both Dragon and Phoenix Clans. The

Utaku and Otaku Family are one Family section.

The Spider are not considered a Great Clan yet, however that should be

changing soon because of the MegaGame; once it is done, and when SpiderFamilies get a mon, the changes will be applied.

Colours of the mon may vary, depending on the book and the edition, when

that is the case, both versions are presented.

The black and white mon are for viewers to express their artistic vibes and

create their own.

It has to be noted that some mon from Wikia are non-canon representations.

They use approximations of the design and different colours than those appearing

or mentioned in the books. They are presented only to offer an alternative.

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Credits and Contributors

The first thanks goes to the Legend of the Five Rings Story and Design

Teams, for making Rokugan setting so rich we have to compile information not to

get lost in it.

A big thanks to Kakita Seigi and his websiteKaze no Shiro, for hosting my

files; the title of the document is his idea.

Special thanks to Okuma, for finding obscure and hidden information

where no man had ever been before; the Dojo and Holdings section is

shamelessly based upon his own work about heraldry in Rokugan.

A design thanks to jim pinto, for his insightful feedback.

Thank you SpookyElectric, for giving me permission to add your mon art.

Thanks to Alderac Entertainment Group, for letting me use the art.

A final thanks to the artists, for, well, the art.
http://www.kazenoshiro.com/http://www.kazenoshiro.com/http://www.kazenoshiro.com/http://www.kazenoshiro.com/

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Table of Contents

A Guide to Rokugani Heraldry 1Sources and Credits 4

Sources and Explanations 4Credits and Contributors 6

Table of Contents 7Mons and Colours 11

The Crab 12Crab Clan 14Hida Family 14Hiruma Family 15Kaiu Family 16Kuni Family 16Yasuki Family 17Toritaka Family and Falcon Clan 17

The Crane 18Crane Clan 20Doji Family 20Kakita Family 21Asahina Family 21Daidoji Family 22Yasuki Family 23

The Dragon 24Dragon Clan 26Togashi Family 26Mirumoto Family 27Agasha Family 27Kitsuki Family 28Hitomi Family 28Hoshi Family 29Tamori Family 29

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The Lion 30Lion Clan 32Akodo Family 32Matsu Family 33Ikoma Family 33Kitsu Family 34

The Mantis 35Mantis Clan and Yoritomo Family 37Tsuruchi Family and Wasp Clan 37Moshi Family and Centipede Clan 37Kitsune Family and Fox Clan 38

The Phoenix 39Phoenix Clan 41Shiba Family 41Isawa Family 42Asako Family 43Agasha Family 44

The Scorpion 45Scorpion Clan 47Bayushi Family 47Shosuro Family 48Soshi Family 48Yogo Family 49

The Unicorn 50Unicorn Clan 52Shinjo Family 52Utaku and Otaku Family 53Iuchi Family 53Ide Family 54Moto Family 55Horiuchi Family 56

Imperial 57The Emperor 59

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Otomo Family 59Seppun Family 59Miya Family 60Emerald Champion and Emerald Magistrates 60Jade Champion and Jade Magistrates 60Yotsu Family 61

Minor Clans 62Badger Clan 64Bat Clan 64Boar Clan 64Dragonfly Clan 65Hare Clan 65Monkey Clan 65Ox Clan 66Snake Clan 66Sparrow Clan 66Tortoise Clan 67

Other Factions 68The Brotherhood of Shinsei 70Toturis Army and Legion of the Wolf 70The Jade Hand 70Nezumi and One Tribe 71The Naga 71Shadowlands Horde 72The Moto Black Guard 72The Spider 73

Dojo and Holdings 74The Crab 75

Kuni Wastes 75The Witch Hunters 77The Damned 78

The Crane 80Kyuden Doji 80

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Kakita Duelling Academy 80Kosaten Shiro 80

The Dragon 81Mountain Home Dojo 81Togashi Testing Grounds 81

The Lion 82Shiro No Yojin 82

The Mantis 83Dojo Raiden 83

The Phoenix 84Asako Inquisitors 84

The Scorpion 86Dojo of Lies 86Dojo of the Closed Eye 86

The Unicorn 87Gatherer of Winds Dojo 87

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Mons and Colours

This section is the most prominent of the document, as mon account for the

biggest part of Rokugani heraldry. However, as titled, official Clans and Families

colours are in it too, and for Families or Clans having one; mottos are also

presented.

Each mon has a particular significance and history. Some are known

Empire-wide, such as the Emperors mon and the Isawa mon, others are so obscure

they have gone forgotten, but every mon means the world to the Clan and Family

members who wear it.

Colours are primarily important for clothing, as samurai make a habit of

wearing their Clans colours, especially in formal setting. Also, Families and

Clans colours do not always match, even though, more often than not, Families

use at least one colour from the Clan mon.

6

6by Bagus Hutomoto
http://www.imaginaryfs.com/Artist_profile_POPO.html

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9

10

9by Steve Argyle

10by Miguel Coimbra
http://www.miguelcoimbra.com/images/gallery2.php?bimg=galerie/l5r/0ttt/clan_heirloom.jpg&l=720&h=536http://www.steveargyle.com/?cmd=gallery_ext&art_id=9

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Crab ClanGunmetal-grey, blue and brick red.

11

Hida FamilyAll Crab families, with the exception of the Yasuki, integrate the image of a

crab into their mon reflecting their position in a larger entity and their

responsibilities to that entity.

The Hida mon depicts a blue crab on a field of slate-grey, clutching a

tetsubo in its pincers. It signifies both the Familys great strength and their duties

as sentinels for the Emperor.12



12Way of the Crab, p. 36

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Hiruma FamilyA single fire against the darkness always burns brightest

Since the Hiruma have taken back their ancestral lands, they no longer feela burning shame attached to their Family name. Thus, they have adopted a crest

and motto for their children to pass down the generations that symbolizes their

place in the Empire.13

From the year 755 to the year 1130

No mon. No saying. The Hiruma do not live so long as their land is gone.14

Old Hiruma

15

13 Secrets of the Crab, p. 3614

Way of the Crab, p. 3815

The old mon of the Hiruma Family can be seen on the back of a samurai, on page 58 of

Bearers of Jade

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Kaiu FamilyThe Kaiu mon represents their sturdiness and position as the great

foundation of the Clan. It portrays the blood-red claw of a crab, surrounded by

bricks, on a field of white. The bricks represent protectiveness a shield against

danger, while the claw represents hidden weapons, striking if their defence is ever

breached.16

Kuni FamilyThe Kuni mon is a pair a red crab claws over a cream-colored field and

surrounded by a circle of blue. It represents the Kunis search for the great

mysteries of the universe, and reminds them that such mysteries may often be

found within themselves.17



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Yasuki FamilyMay your cup always be full, and hands never be empty.

The Yasuki mon is a stark contrast to the other Crab families. It depicts agolden carp surrounding a flower of deep azure. The car is considered an animal of

good fortune, and the mon is intended to bring wealth and prosperity to all the

Yasuki under it.18

Toritaka Family and Falcon ClanDark gray and forest-green.

19


19Way of the Minor Clans, p.3

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20

21

20by Steve Argyle

21by Okita
http://luches.deviantart.com/art/Crane-Kensai-101987119?q=gallery:Luches/71558&qo=32http://www.steveargyle.com/?cmd=gallery_ext&art_id=13

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22

23

22by Steve Argyle

23by Edwin David
http://www.steveargyle.com/?cmd=gallery_ext&art_id=105http://dwin.octographics.net/gallery/l5r/crane6_by_EdwinDavid.jpghttp://www.steveargyle.com/?cmd=gallery_ext&art_id=105

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Crane ClanSky-blue and white.

24

Doji Family

Bemore concerned with good actions than with great ones.A crane holding an eight-pointed snowflake in its beak.

The words which are the motto of the Doji Family where the last spoken by

Lady Doji on the night of her death. It is said she came to the bedside of Doji

Ochiba, Doji Nios wife, and revealed her several secrets of the Dojis household

which have been passed down from each Cranes daimyos wife to her successor.25

26




26by SpookyElectric

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Kakita FamilyFor the coward there is no life. For the hero there is no death.

A cranes wing, outstretched around an unsheathed katana.

The unsheathed katana is the symbol of war, and to the Kakita Family it is

also a reminder that they must always be ready to defend the Crane house and

Imperial line from their enemies. For a thousand years, Kakitas treatise, The

Sword, has been one of two predominant works on swordplay, and is taught in

nearly every school of bushido in Rokugan.27


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Asahina FamilyKnowledge must be earned, not simply learned.

A cranes head, holding in its beak a peach blossom.

The peach tree is the primary wood used in the creation of fetishes and

nemuranai, and is used by the Asahina for many things. Because it is so integral to

their work, there are tremendous peach trees which line the road to the Asahina

temple. The peach blossom itself is the sign of change and of peace two things

the Asahina wish their work to epitomize.28


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Daidoji FamilyThe spear waits not for his master, but rushes forth to guard the way.29

A crane, wings outstretched above a snake, wrapped about a yari.

The Daidoji respect the spear as a weapon, and many of their bushi learn to

use a yari before they learn to use a katana. Their creed speaks of their readiness to

leap to the defence of the Crane both in military and other matters. A Daidoji

bushi has his Clans mon tattooed on his wrists on the day on his gempukku, to

remind him of his sworn duty to the Crane.


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Yasuki FamilyOld Yasuki

May your cup always be full, and hands never be empty.30A crane with a chrysanthemum.

This was the mon of the Yasuki before their break from the Crane Clan.

Since then, their mon has been changed to reflect their new position within the

Crab Clan, but the original Yasuki mon can still be found on ancient items. Many

of these items were destroyed either by the Yasuki themselves or by the Daidoji

but some few remain. They are considered very bad luck to the Yasuki; if at any

time one is brought within the walls of the Black Crane palace, it is said to bring a

year of bad trade and ill fortune.


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33

34

33by Edwin David

34by Miguel Coimbra
http://www.miguelcoimbra.com/images/gallery2.php?bimg=galerie/l5r/1khan/taikishi.jpg&l=720&h=545http://dwin.octographics.net/gallery/l5r/MirumotoRosanjin_by_EdwinDavid.jpg

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Dragon ClanEmerald-green and yellow.

35

Togashi FamilyThe mon of the Togashi Family is a dragon encircling and holding a plum

blossom. When Togashi broke his fast after Shinseis famous wordsneither willI, it was a plum that fell into Togashis hand for him to eat.36

These monks follow the teachings of Togashi, Kami and founder of the

Dragon Clan. They embrace a philosophy of enlightenment through spontaneity,

and value, humility, compassion, and a sense of humor.37



36Way of the Dragon, p. 18

37Secrets of the Dragon, p. 69

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Mirumoto FamilyThe mon of the Mirumoto Family is dragon encircling and holding a

daisho. For a thousand years, the Mirumoto samurai have employed their

patriarchs technique, and it is recognized, if not respected, across Rokugan.38

39

Agasha FamilyThe mon of the Agasha Family is a dragon encircling and clinging to a

pomegranate. On the outside, the pomegranate is simple, appearing to be an

ordinary fruit like an apple or pear. Once opened, it reveals its many, many seeds,

all of which represent a separate possibility, a hundred different potentialities.40


39by SpookyElectric


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Kitsuki FamilyThe mon of the Kitsuki Family is a dragon encircling and clinging to a

lightning bolt. The image is a curious one. The Kitsukis representation of

lightning is like a swirling maze. Lightning cuts through the darkness, revealing

what could not be seen before, and is representative of Osano-Wo, the Thunderer,

who brings the wrath of the gods to those whose deserve justice.41

Hitomi FamilyThe Order of Hitomi is the most feared and misunderstood of the ThreeOrders. They follow the teachings of Hitotni, Lady Moon, the Dragon Thunder.

They embrace the philosophy of attaining enlightenment through physical and

mental hardship. Members of this order seek out impossible challenges through

which to prove their worth, and as a result the Hitomi have a reputation for

violence.42

43



43by SpookyElectric

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Hoshi FamilyThe Hoshi are the smallest of the Three Orders. They embrace a philosophy

of enlightenment through balance and moderation. They see the Togashi and the

Hitomi as the embodiment of dissonance, and maintaining harmonious relations

between the two families is their greatest challenge. To the Hoshi, patience is the

greatest of all virtues. Power, wisdom, and all other virtues are of little worth if one

cannot master patience.44

Tamori Family


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45

46

45by Edwin David

46by Terekjet
http://terekjet.deviantart.com/art/Matsu-Kasei-own-version-154595486?q=sort:time+gallery:terekjet&qo=0http://dwin.octographics.net/gallery/l5r/LIONwflare_by_EdwinDavid.jpg

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47

48

47by Steve Argyle

48by Steve Argyle
http://www.steveargyle.com/?cmd=gallery_ext&art_id=32

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Lion ClanGold and earth tones.

49

Akodo FamilyThe Akodo mon is a lions face, full of dedication. It is a sharp contrast to

the blunt fury of the Matsu mon; the division of the face presents the Akodos dual

nature, as both accomplished warriors and learned thinkers.50



50Way of the Lion, p. 22

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Matsu FamilyThe Matsu mon was crafted with their simple passion for war in mind. It

shows a sword, carried in a lions paw, raised to the heavens in defiance of any

who would challenge them.51

Ikoma FamilyThe Ikoma mon is an arched portal surrounding nothing. Though others

may see the Lion iconography upon it as more important, all Ikoma realize the

importance of the portal itself. Through each portal lies knowledge and ultimate

understanding, along with another portal and a greater vista. The path tocomprehension is never-ending, as each discovery leads to more questions.

52

53



53by SpookyElectric

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Kitsu FamilyThe Kitsu mon bears a striking resemblance to their fallen ancestor, before

he was made by Lady Sun to look like men. Kitsu remember the past, those who

have come before, and what they have done. Their mon is a memory, both of fallen

Kitsu and his legacy.54


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57

58

57by Edwin David

58by Steve Argyle
http://www.steveargyle.com/?cmd=gallery_ext&art_id=30http://dwin.octographics.net/gallery/l5r/MANTIS4_by_EdwinDavid_tn.jpg

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Moshi Family and Centipede ClanOrange, black and brown.

62

Kitsune Family and Fox ClanRed-brown and silver.

63



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64

65

64by Mario Wibisino

65by Michael Komarck
http://www.mariowibisono.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=7&category_id=1&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=82http://www.komarckart.com/ccg_l5r14.htmlhttp://www.mariowibisono.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=7&category_id=1&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=82

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66

67

66by Jason Engle

67by Steve Argyle
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Shiba FamilyThe mon of the Shiba Family is a set of crossed swords, surmounted by the

flames of the Phoenix. While the background is a stoic black, the flames and

swords are done in vibrant gold and silver, symbolizing the eternal dedication of

the Shiba to their founders oath. There is a variant of the Shiba mon which is used

by those bushi who serve Isawa shugenja as yojimbothe central area between the

swords then also contains the symbol of Void, stitched in shining gold.69

Shiba Yojimbo

69Way of the Phoenix, p. 37

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Isawa FamilyThe mon bears the symbol of the Five Elements, symbolizing the arcane

ties which the Isawa have to the kami. The spiral pattern indicates their belief that

all things in nature are part of each other, bound by the fabric of eternity.

The mon of the Isawa may be the most widely known Family symbol in the

Empire, save only that of Hantei himself. Certainly it is worn by hundreds of

shugenja in all the Clans of Rokugan, showing their ties to the teachers of

spellcraft. Students who graduate from the Isawa schools, and even those who

simply for a few years after their graduation from the schools of other Clans, wear

the mark as a badge of pride.70

Much to Temoru's shock, the symbol adorning the City of Gold was not the

chop of Isawa as he had believed. Instead, the information he uncovered there

indicated that Isawa may have been born within the city and adopted its symbol as

his own when he left for Rokugan.71

70Way of the Phoenix, p. 23


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75

76

75by Miguel Coimbra

76by Edwin David
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77

78

77by Michael Komarck

78by Miguel Coimbra
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Scorpion ClanBlood-red and black.

79

Bayushi FamilyThe mon of the Bayushi Family is a scorpion surrounded by water. It is

often accompanied by the kanji I can swim.80



80Way of the Scorpion, p. 24

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Shosuro FamilyThe mon of the Shosuro is an endless loop of intertwining ivy. It is the

eternal maze, the puzzle that may never be solved.81

Soshi FamilyThe mon of the Soshi Family is a scorpion with claws outstretched, a net

between them.82



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Yogo FamilyThe mon of the Yogo Family is a mask made of flaming feathers,

representing their lost heritage to the Phoenix Clan.83


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84

85

84by Steve Argyle

85by Lasahido
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86

87

86by Miguel Coimbra

87by Drew Baker
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Unicorn ClanPurple and white.

88

When the Unicorn meet with outsiders, they tend to use the Unicorn mon.

However, in the Unicorn Clan, each Family has its own mon. A Familys mon ismost often prominently displayed during Unicorn Clan gatherings. Finally, each

person or nuclear family within the Clan may have their own mon. Usually this is

simply the kanji character of their name, but other symbols have been used, and are

too numerous to be listed here.89



89Way of the Unicorn, p. 35

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Shinjo FamilyThe Ki-Rin design in the Shinjo mon, is regarded by the Family as a

portrait of the original Shinjo in her true form. The Ki-Rin faces West, representing

Shinjos journey into that mysterious land. The flaming mane is swept back as the

creature runs free, a symbol of the Familys spirit of freedom and exploration. The

colour scheme is black on bright orange, with fiery red around the edge.90

Utaku and Otaku FamilyThe Otaku mon is the simplest of Rokugan: a plain field of pale purple. It

represents the original Otakus silence, but can also be taken to represent her purity

of purpose. Many opponents, have learned, in some cases quite briefly, how

terrifying this banner can be when carried by a formation of charging, silent

shiotome, none of whom wish to dishonour their ancestor by uttering a battle cry.91



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Iuchi FamilyPower is what you think it is.

The mon of the Iuchi Family clearly represents their devotion to the studyof magic. An open scroll flows across a deep blue field. The spirals incorporated in

the design represent the dynamic, fluid energy of magic, while the scroll

symbolises the Tao of Shinsei, on which the Iuchi base all their magical

interpretations.92


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Moto FamilyMoto can die, but cannot yield.

-from the Moto war banner, during the Blood WarNever.

-from the Moto war banner, present dayThe mon of the Moto Family bears the face of death a stylized mask of

intimidating determination that matches the ghostly white make-up worn by the

Moto samurai into battle. The mon is stark and grim, as the Moto are themselves,

and its appearance on the battlefield always seems to be followed by a

disconcerting chill and a mournful keening of the wind.

The Moto wear white armour with purple used only as highlights.

The loss of their Familys honour through the vile sorceries of the

Shadowlands has had a profound effect on the remainder of the Moto Family. They

changed their Family mon to reflect their change of attitude. Instead of the

optimistic red chrysanthemum, their new banner bore a grim and threatening

kabuki face; and they replaced the motto on their war banner.

In spite of their grievous losses during the Blood War, the Family has

rebuilt. They have formed the White Guard, a military unit that embodies the

implacable determination and unyielding mettle of the Family.

Their armour is white and battered, ghostly white plumes and manes adorn

their helmets, and their faces are painted with stark white and black in frightening

masks of death.94

94Way of the Unicorn, p. 44 to 46

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Old Moto

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Horiuchi Family

95

95a mon can be seen on the Shinden Horiuchi card, however it is unclear if it is a

stylised Unicorn mon or the Horiuchi Family mon; the former is more likely
http://www.l5rsearch.com/images/cards/Shinden%20Horiuchi.jpghttp://www.l5rsearch.com/images/cards/Shinden%20Horiuchi.jpghttp://www.l5rsearch.com/images/cards/Shinden%20Horiuchi.jpg

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96

97

96by Steve Argyle

97by April Lee
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98

99

98by April Lee

99by Chris Appel
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The Emperor

Otomo Family

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Seppun Family

100

Miya Family

100by SpookyElectric

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Yotsu Family

103

103a mon can be seen on Yotsu Dojo card, however it is unclear if it is the mon of the

Yotsu Dojo or the mon of the Yotsu Family
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104

105

104by Glen Osterberger

105by Ijur
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106

107

106by Steve Argyle

107by John Donahue
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Badger ClanBrown and black.

Pale grey with stripes of black and white.109

Bat ClanBlack.

110






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Boar ClanDark blue and green.

111

Dragonfly ClanBlue, brown and gold.

112

Jewel tones, in a rainbow of colour.113





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Hare ClanRed and white.

114

Monkey ClanOrange and brown.

115





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Ox ClanBlue and black.

116

Snake ClanSilver, black and grey-purple.

117





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Sparrow ClanShades of brown.

Dun-brown and black.119

Tortoise ClanLight green and white.

120

Blue-black and gold.121

118 Legend of the Five Rings 3rdEdition revised core rulebook, p. 72119

Way of the Minor Clans, p.3120

Legend of the Five Rings 3rd

Edition revised core rulebook, p. 72121

Way of the Minor Clans, p.3

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122

123

122by Jaime Jones

123by Steve Argyle
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124

125

124by Steve Argyle

125by Edwin David
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The Brotherhood of Shinsei

Toturis Army and Legion of the Wolf

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Nezumi and One Tribe

The Naga

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Shadowlands HordeThe newest symbol borne by the minions of darkness is the scowling oni

emblazed upon Yogo Junzos battle standard. Junzo claims that the design of the

mon came to him in a dream, a vision in which the diverse creatures of darkness

were unified beneath a single leader. He call this army the Shadowlands Horde.

When the true leader of the Horde returns, Yogo Junzo intends to make certain his

armies are waiting.126

The Moto Black GuardThe mon of the Moto Black Guard is a hideous caricature of the mon

utilised by the Unicorn Moto. The colours of the mon have been inverted and the

kabukis mask trademark frown has been replaced with a sinister grin. The mon

was not created as a parody of the Moto mon, as many believe. The two were

developed independently, at the same time. The Tainted Moto believe it signifies

the brotherhood they share with their confused brethren. The Unicorn Motowould rather not think about what the coincidence symbolises.

127

126Way of the Shadowlands, p. 32


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The SpiderBlack and white.

128

The Jade Hand

129



129The mon of the Jade Hand can be seen on the Hiruma Kaikawa card
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Dojo and Holdings

Unlike Clans and Families, which all follow the same pattern of mon and

colours, dojo have another mean for individuals to show their allegiance. Every

way of honouring the school and sensei is unique to each schooling facility.

However, Rokugani heraldry extends further than the personal display of

loyalty on clothing or banners, and holdings play their own part on the heraldic

scene. By having easily identifiable buildings, Clans and factions make it clear to

outsiders whose territory it is, while strengthening the unity of those living in them.

130

130by Charles Urbach
http://www.angelfire.com/id/hawkrune/

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Kuni WastesThe Kuni Family practices a ritual of face painting, similar in many ways to

the kabuki make-up worn by many Kakita actors. Under ideal circumstances, the

make-up is applied each day after awakening. The methodical application of the

paint can take up to an hour, as each line on the face has a meaning known only to

the individual in question. Even the Kuni do not know where this tradition

originated, or what purpose it serves.

Kuni shugenja show respect to their senseis by wearing a style of face paint similar to their senseis. Those familiar with Kuni heraldry can identify a

Kunis sensei, and his senseis sensei, by the style of his war paint. Due to Kuni

tendency to relocate children to live with their sensei from an early age, Kuni are

often closer to their sensei than their parents.131

132

131Way of the Shugenja, p. 22

132by David Horne
http://epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/view.pl?id=109807

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133

134

133by Okita

134by Steve Argyle
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The Witch HuntersThe Jade seal carried by the Kuni Witch Hunter is a combination of the

crossed claws of the Kuni Family mon and the open eye of the Asako Inquisitors.

The crossed claws represent the ever-present defense offered by the tsukai-sagasu.The open eye symbolizes the eternal vigilance of their allies, the Inquisitors. These

seals are only carried by the Kuni, and are often enhanced by the Jade Eternal spell

so that they are more difficult to corrupt. The Witch Hunters are quite unforgiving

toward the rare fools that dare to lake counterfeit Witch Hunter badges.135

136

137




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The DamnedThe Damned have their own peculiar heraldry, mostly to warn friendly

units of their presence. The mon of the Damned is simply the mon of whatever

Family the bushi belonged to before, marred with a splash of blood-red. The

default mon of the damned is that of the Hida, as more Hida have fallen to the

Taint than any other samurai.138

139

140




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Kyuden DojiStudents at Kyuden Doji can be recognised by the symbol of the court fan

spread beneath the Family mon on their kimono.141

Kakita Duelling AcademyThe symbol of the Academy is a single strike of silver, signifying the

lightning strike of Kakita himself. The strike appears on the right side of the

students Family mon on their kimono.142

Kosaten ShiroThe students of Kosaten Shiro are easily recognisable by the twin crossed

yari beneath the Family mon on their kimono or armour.143

144

141 Way of the Samurai, p. 24142

Way of the Samurai, p. 26143

Way of the Samurai, p. 27144

by Charles Urbach

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Mountain Home DojoStudents of Mountain Home may display their dojo by placing the

mountain in front of the dragon on their Family mon, instead of the usual dragon

design coiled in front of the mountain. This shows that the mountains are their

protection and their home, and also symbolises that they are the mountain that

defends the Dragon Clan.145

Togashi Testing GroundsThose tattooed monks who survive a passage through the Togashi Testing

Grounds receive a special badge to display their capabilities. This badge is a (non-

magical) tattoo of a dragon scale on the tattooed monk's body for every day he

survived in the Testing Grounds.146

147




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Shiro No YojinNotorious for their aggressive and unforgiving nature, the students of Shiro

no Yojin are equally renowned for their unbridled ferocity in battle. They are

noticeable because of the red edge on the sleeve of their otherwise traditional

kimono. The red signifies the blood of the enemies the samurai will slay in the

name of his Clan.148

149

148Way of the Samurai, p. 43


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Dojo RaidenThe training that each student receives at Dojo Raiden places a great deal of

emphasis on the non-combat portions of a samurais duty. Many students choose to

tattoo the mon of the cliff-face onto their wrists after their gempukku, to honour

their school. The mon is not official, and does not appear in any heraldic record,

but can be easily recognised by anyone familiar with the dojo.150

151

150Way of the Samurai, p. 48


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Asako InquisitorsThe Phoenix order of Inquisitors was founded in response to the corruption

of Isawa Akuma, though for many years they were little more than Clan

magistrates defending the Phoenix Clan from internal corruption. After the rise of

Iuchiban, the jurisdiction of the Inquisitors was extended across the entire Empire,

and they become an official sub-group of the Emerald Magistrates.

Over the years, the Inquisitors have worked alongside the Kuni WitchHunters and, for the past few decades, the magistrates of the revived office of Jade

Champion. The Asako, left largely to their own device by the Phoenix, have

assumed the responsibility of overseeing the Inquisitors as they continue their

crusade against maho and corruption. The Inquisitors can be readily identified by

the strange eye tattoos that they bear on their palms. These tattoos are magical,

enhancing the Inquisitors already great perceptive talents. In the past, when the

Dragon and Phoenix were allies, the Togashi Family provided these tattoos. In

recent times, the Agasha have taken up the duty of crafting these tattoos. (TheAgasha are not able to recreate the Dragon tattoos; they have mastered only the

relatively simple Inquisitor tattoo).152

153



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154


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Dojo of LiesThe preeminent school of the Scorpion courtiers is home to both the most

affable and the most dangerous members of the Clan. This reputation leaves many

wondering if their pleasant Scorpion companion is plotting their downfall or is

truly fond of them. Students of the Dojo of Lies honour their dojo by removing the

tail from any Scorpion appearing on their garments (save those on the Clan

mon).155

Dojo of the Closed EyeThe Soshi Family is hesitant to admit those from outside their Family.

Other Scorpion occasionally gain admittance into the shugenja dojo, but arte never

truly accepted as one of the Family.

Students of the Dojo of the Closed Eye honour their school by removing the

eyes from the Soshi mon.156

157

155Way of the Samurai, p.64

156Way of the Shugenja, p.65


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Gatherer of Winds DojoStudents of the Gatherer of Winds Dojo generally denote their school by

having a small white or grey kanji for Air stitched on the lower part of their

Family mon.158

159

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