Wolf Clan

General Information:
Despite personal feuds among the Wolf Clan Families their loyalty to each other runs as thick as blood. Outsiders to the Wolf Clan may call the society 'hypocritical' or 'having a double standard', but regardless of what is said or done between the families their loyalty remains true to each other. In the Wolf Clan society, feuds between different families are nearly instantly resolved when faced with outside feuds.

In short a sibling-like rivalry exists within the Wolf Clan, such that fellow clan members may insult and fight with one another, but let a non-Wolf Clan hurl an insult and they will have to deal with all of the Wolf Clan members within earshot range.


In a similar fashion to each family controlling a separate island of the Wolf Clan Territory, so does each family control island also specialize in different arts. While some classes a present on all islands, others are more dominant on one island compare to the others depending on which family is in control. This trait of the Wolf Clan makes them stronger as a whole, so that instead of every family trying to strike a balance on their own, they instead do so as a whole.

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Our Territory


Key
W 1: Ookami Tengoku (Wolf Heaven)
W 2: Ookami Kihaku (Wolf Soul)
W 3: Ookami Kyogou (Wolf Pride)
W 4: Ookami Shoujou (Wolf Purity)
W 5: Ookami Kashikoi (Wolf Smarts)
W 6: Ookami Ashi (Wolf Paw)
W 7: Ookami Jigoku (Wolf Hell)

Orange Dot: Lesser City
Green Dot: Family City
Black Dot: Wolf Clan Capital

*Names for cities to come later

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Originally one island, the inhabitants were fiercely loyal to their own families and territories regardless of their relations to each other. These disputes greatly troubled the kami of loyalty. One night came when the battles were so intense that even the wolves themselves kept silent. The kami became angered by the internal warfare, and in a howl that shook the very seas, similar to that of the great wolf, the land became segmented into several islands.

Thirteen years passed since that fateful night, and the kami still grieved over his decision to spilt families. Resolute in building a single clan, the kami came down to unite the several different families into one whole. He selected seven individuals, each from a different island, all of whom pledged their loyalty not only to Hoten, but to each other as well.

Through their diligent work, the six men and one woman gave rise to the current seven royal families each specializing in their founder’s trade. Having converted from several smaller factions battling for control to one unified clan, the now formed Wolf Clan set their sights unto territory that would soon be theirs. Prideful and arrogant, the Wolf Clan laid claim to the seas, fighting valiantly for the title of naval superiority. Working as one, the clan achieved their desires seven years after starting their conquest, proving once and for all to everyone who proudly called themselves a Wolf Clan member that this clan was far more powerful as one than as seven.

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~Wolf Clan Politics~

The wolf clan having taken up residence on a series of islands developed into a clan consisting of seven families each specializing in various schools of training. As a result one family naturally assumed the control over the clan’s politics with other clans, it because of this equal separation of powers that the families select and send an emissary to capital city once a month for a week at a time to be informed on current and outdated policies.

One of the binding factors that allow this, otherwise chaotic, system of government to function as effectively as it does, is the unparalleled loyalty to the betterment of the clan as a whole. Wolf clan members themselves swear their loyalties in three different levels the utmost being the clan, then the family who controls their island, and finally and the least is the loyalty to themselves. Though it may seem odd to swear loyalty to oneself, wolf clan members understand the concept completely and humble themselves when the sake of the clan or family differs from their personal want.

Most matters of local politics are dealt with by the ruling family under which numerous rulings may differ depending on the island, however the ruling is never contrary to the wolf clan’s code of bushido.

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Benefits:
[ Loyalty ] [*] (Free) –Their unspoken loyalty to their clan seems to be the binding factor of the Wolf Tribes. If such a problem should arise regarding outside forces, the Wolf Tribes will band together in order to vanquish any common threat. Their unity for exceeds that of any other clan.

[ Sea Legs ] [2] -Being surrounded by water nearly all of one’s life is bound to have its benefits. One such benefit is that those of the Wolf Clan always have their sea legs, meaning they rarely if at all get sea sick.

[ Weather Prediction ] [1-3] -Having lived on the sea as much as they do on land if not more, have come to learn the signs and even the smells for inclement weather. Being trained in the ways of the sea, most have come to be able to predict weather up to three hours before it happens.

Common Clan Flaws:
[ Arrogance ] –With their mastery of the sea, and the sheer prosperity of their nation, those of the Wolf Clan hold a bit of arrogance towards others, often times leading into many conflicts, usually amongst the clan members themselves.

[ Shifty Business ] -Members of the Wolf Clan have been known to deal in under-the-counter transactions, especially given that a good majority of this clan consists of pirates. Because of this, some of these members put their lives and their honor at risk, which may in turn lead to future problems for the clan as a whole. At times, the Wolf Clan has been considered to have low morals regarding their supposed avarice, especially by members of the other clans.

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~Wolf Tribes~

Family: Kouketsu (Nobility)
Island: Ookami Tengoku (Wolf Heaven)
Specialization: Nobility / World Affairs
Major Classes: Courtiers, Samurai
Description: As their title discloses, the Kouketsu are the nobility and diplomats of the Wolf Clan. Through elegance and political motions, they are the global ties to the Wolf Clan. The Kouketsu do their part to manage the name of their clan, often redeeming its name and respect after some of the rash and brazen actions of some of the clan members. They have the most influence with the other clans out of all of the Wolf Clan families and they are known for their loyalty to those they favor. The family is comprised mostly of diplomats and their guards and lacks in the physical strength compared to that of the other families. The Family has three sub divisions:

Taishi –Meaning “Ambassador”, the Taishi have the most experience with the dealings and daily actions of the other clans. They are mainly Courtiers who are favored by certain clans, known for their logistic noble air. The individuals are know to have affinities towards different clans, but they bring the favor they have gained to benefit the Wolf Clan as a whole.

Yuugiteki –Meaning “Playful”, the Yuugiteki are nobles who have renounced their duty to deal in the clan politics. Instead, they spend their time enjoying life, and brining joy to those around them with their art and spirit. They are masters at poetry, song and dance; and they can hold their own in battle as well. They usually are not the ones fighting on the front lines, but instead, they are the minstrels and jesters cheering the spirits of the tired and wounded. They are a joy to the people, both of the Wolf Clan and to those outside, and they are connected to good fortune.

Bengonin –Meaning “Defender”, the Bengonin are those of noble position who enjoy being around people. They often try to guard those that they favor and they have ample skill in the art of battle. These people range from Samurai to many other classes, but they all share the single trait of loyalty to those of whom they befriend. These individuals usually are not seen of the frontline in battle, but instead, the guardians of the nobility and people. The proficiency of these guards and their loyalty has earned much respect for the Wolf Clan.

Benefits:
[ Aristocracy ] -As the nobles of the wolf clan, the members of the Kouketsu family are in good relation with the other clans and people of the world. Because of their pleasant air, the Kouketsu are acknowledged and liked my many, allowing them to please crowds easily.

Flaws:
[ Diplomatic Response ] -Though they have the spirit of the wolf, the nobility often find themselves in a position where a straight answer cannot be given. They hold their loyalty dear, and will even make false statements in order to protect their existing bonds rather than to forge new ones. In times where a tough descision must be made, the Kouketsu often anguish over having to uphold their standards and make a decision rather than acting based upon instinct.

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Family: Seikaiken (Control of the Sea)
Island: Ookami Kihaku (Wolf Soul)
Specialization: Merchants / Naval Power
Major Classes: Kashikan, Wokou, Hei
Description: As their name implies, the Seikaiken are the complete masters of the sea, and are what make the Wolf Clan’s navy so powerful. With their inane abilities to read the waters, they can easily navigate across the globe, providing for trade with many distant lands, as far as India. They control nearly all dealings within the eastern seas, making them strong force to be reckoned with. The Seikaiken are divided into three different roles:

Kazai –Meaning “Wealth”, the Kazai are the noncombatants of the Wolf Clan Navy. They specialize in the dealings of foreign trade, and are, to say the least, very skilled in their profession, bringing much wealth to the Wolf Clan and the tribes that it consists of. They have also been known to work well with the Wokou, in order to further their own personal gain.

Ichibun –Meaning “Honor” or “Duty”, the Ichibun consist mainly of the Kashikan and Hei. These proud men work to defend their Clan from any dangers at sea that may arise, whether it be a demon or even another clan. They fight for justice till the bitter end, and hold a strong sense of moral values. Though despite this, those of the Ichibun still tolerate the Wokou, understanding the benefits that they bring to the Wolf Clan. In the eyes of the Ichibun, they put the clan before their own lives, and will not hesitate to destroy those who wish to arm it.

Eikou –Meaning “Glory”, are the fame seekers, constantly looking for action and adventure as well as boundless wealth. They have adopted another name over the years, and now are most often called “pirates”. Despised by most, if not all clans, the Eikou are unique in that they are at least partially accepted within the Wolf Clan. As long as they do not betray their Clan, the Eikou can establish trade with the prized naval nation. It is an unspoken agreement of mutual benefits.

Benefits:
[ Experts of the Sea ] -With their vast knowledge of the seas and the surrounding lands, the Seikaiken have full control of all trade routes, allowing them access to various foreign countries and to rare goods. Their expertise and well kept secrets have lead to the development of many alternate routes otherwise unknown to others.

Flaws:
[ Pirating ] -Members of the Seikaiken are often affilated with pirates, thus casting a shadow of doubt on their expansive empire of trade. Members of other clans tend to frown upon this family the most, leading to some potential conflict for the Wolf Clan as a whole.

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Family: Tsuga (Fang)
Island: Ookami Kyogou (Wolf Pride)
Specialization: Fighting
Major Classes: Samurai, Bushi
Description: Members of the Tsuga Family have learned to adapt to a harsh lifestyle. Born with the natural instincts to kill, these are the battle hardened warriors of the clan. They have learned to specialize in the arts of war, namely physical combat. The Tsuga are further divided into one of two roles:

Ichigun -Meaning “Group” or “Herd”, the Ichigun are the basic lines of offense in the Wolf Clan. Sticking to their ties of loyalty and self unity within the clan, the Ichigun fight as one, using their massive numbers to overwhelm the enemy as a single group. The Ichigun are always clustered together to form a strong first wave of assault, as well as an excellent form of defense. Each member fights to the death alongside each of their brethren.

Ippikiookami –Meaning “Lone Wolf”, the Ippikiookami are the elitists of the Tsuga Family and of the Wolf Clan army. They consist of the bushi and highly skilled samurai, and are the second line of attack when it comes to war. These beasts will emerge from behind the front line and help deal the final blow to the opposing forces using their inhuman strength and death-defying skill. These elitists usually are required to pass a three day test on the high seas to be accepted in the Ippikiookami.

Benefits:
[ Adept Fighting Skill ] –Their gruesome training methods and constant pressure from tribal wars and activities, make them the perfect killing machines. Tsuga members will most often have heightened senses when it comes to battle, and their experience comes from years of their brutal lifestyle. They are usually stronger and quicker than other clan members, and are always determined to win any brawl.

Flaws:
[ Bloodlust ] –While providing much enthusiasm during battle, this bloodlust that the Tsuga clan seems to hold appears to have its flaws out weigh its benefits. Their bloodlust makes them rather rash and even more arrogant than the typical Wolf Clan member, often times sparking several incidents of turmoil within the clan itself.

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Family: Jijou (Self-Cleansing)
Island: Ookami Shoujou (Wolf Purity)
Specialization: Exorcisms / Demon Slaying
Major Classes: Shaman, Sohei, Monk
Description: Much like the Tsugan and Kuntou families, the Jijou family members have an inborn talent and desire. However their gift concerns the soul, making the three families perfect complements to each other. The Jijou have an internal sense of a nearby spirit’s alignment and if suited an undying want to eradicate the vile ones. As a result this family is by far the most specialized with its members breaking up into five sub-groups.

Hogosha -Meaning “Guardians”, these wolf clan members find their solace and place in protecting the shrines of the wolf clan. Occasionally, they will venture beyond the shrines grounds on duty assigned to them from the shrines eldest Hogosha. These people are some of the most religious oriented of the clan.

Kariudo -Meaning “Hunters”, these people spend their lives hunting evil oriented demons and spirits of similar alignment. These people are also some of the most resourceful and vengeful the wolf clan has to offer in their defense against mal-aligned entities.

Kiipaa -Meaning “Keepers”, these people are unique in their ways because unlike most of their tribe, these people fight for and with spirits usually by way of contracts. These people generally lend themselves to be leaders of a small group of spirits with otherwise good intentions, sort of a team leader. They will fight alongside their allies until the contract has been fulfilled by both sides.

Keiro -Meaning “Channel or Route”, the one of only two sub-groups that embrace spirits. Unlike the Kiipaa though, the Keiro will actually allow the spirit to work through them to do as the spirit wants. At higher levels, the Keiro gain the ability to channel any spirit while maintaining control over their body, utilizing the spirit’s abilities for themselves. Occasionally, Keiro use this ability of their’s to combat against other spirits or demons.

Sekimori -Meaning “Barrier Keepers”, unlike the Hogosha and the Kariudo these men and women combat those not of this realm with barriers. Experienced Sekimori are capable of using their kekkai (barriers) to suit their needs.

Benefits:
[ Demon Sense ] -Jijou members regardless of their sub-group have the inborn ability to sense the alignment of any spirit or demon based on the aura exuding from the said entity. Through utilization of this trait many of the Jijou tribe are capable to maximize their abilities.

Flaws:
[ Duty Bound ] -Because the Jijou are rigorously self-devoted to their cause, they are often left with little time for much else in their lives. Their constant awareness of the spirits around them causes much strain and unrest on their ever diligiant souls, creating a slight sense of weariness amongst most of these members.

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Family: Kuntou (Education)
Island: Ookami Kashikoi (Wolf Smarts)
Specialization: Researching / Development
Major Classes: Alchemist, Courtier
Description: Unlike their Tsugan brethren, Kuntou have an innate desire to learn the arts and sciences. As such these men and women dedicate their lives to rhetoric and discovery. As such the family is rather equally split between those who focus on the sciences particularly alchemy and those who focus the arts of courtiers finishing school.

Kiwoireru -Meaning “To apply one’s mind”, the name suits the alchemists as that is exactly what they must do for their trade. Always seeking further understanding most set out from the island in search of new ways to utilize their talents.

Eiketsu -Meaning “Master Mind”, these people see the world as their playground, and the stage as their battlefield. Using the arts as their weapon, they utilize their ability to sway their audiences with words or performance. They commonly travel as part of a merchant vessels so as to keep morals up.

Benefits:
[ Charismatic ] -Having trained in the arts of rhetoric and reading people’s physical gestures, Kuntou members have a tendency to have an air of charisma that seem to attract attention of those around them, making the use of their practice easier to utilize.

Flaws:
[ Physically Inept ] -With every skill there comes a downside. Having focused on advancing the mind, many have let their physical strength and stamina suffer. As a result most Kuntou members, though they can still fight, tend not to have the ability for a drawn out fight. Knowing this, most will aim for some means to a quick end.

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Family: Suterusu (Stealth)
Island: Ookami Ashi (Wolf Paw)
Specialization: Espionage / Infiltration
Major Classes: Ninja
Description: Though deemed as warriors without honor throughout most of the world, to the wolf clan these fighters are considered to be on the same level as pirates in that the government has no official stance on the practiced profession, yet still calls on them when appropriate. Most Suterusu have taken on the profession of fishing as a means of cover to their true profession, however when certain situations arise the wolf clan government may call upon these individuals to exercise their illegal trade.

Benefits:
[ Friend of the Shadows ] -Having trained in secret in the arts of secrecy and stealth, these wolf-clan members are said to be similar to ghosts, capable of coming and going without being noticed in even the most crowded of rooms.

Flaws:
[ The Greatest Secret ] -As a result of the general world culture in which they live, a wolf clan ninja refuses to have their real identity to be found out. Should the threat of their identity being revealed happen they will not stop at any cost to prevent it, this includes self-sacrifice.

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Family: Eimai (Wise)
Island: Ookami Jigoku (Wolf Hell)
Specialization: Elemental Magic
Major Classes: Shugenja, Wu-Jen
Description: The Eimai are a family devoted to the ways of the natural world. They are determined to discover, and become one with, the inner working of nature themselves. Because of this, the Eimai live in isolation, deep inside the wilderness of their island so that they can develop a harmony undisturbed by civilization. Being a rather small family and given the differences in their ways of life, the Shugenja and the Wu-jen of the Eimai are often put in further seclusion by their separation from each other. However, in times of external conflict, even these groups have been known to come together in their binding loyalty for the benefit of the Wolf Clan. Both tend to be divided into two different sects.

Unkai –Meaning the “Sea of Clouds”, consists of the majority of the Wolf Clan’s wielders of magic. The Unkai specialize in learning the ways of Water and Air manipulation. They may play a key role on ships when it comes to controlling tides or bringing about a steady wind, yet they can serve several combat purposes as needed. The Unkai of the Wolf Clan may be considered the most prestigious users of Water and Air in the entire world.

Jiyo –Literally translates to “the Others” or “the Remainder”, these are the Shugenja and Wu-Jen that focus on everything else aside from Water and Air. They make up a small minority of the Eimai, and because of this, not much is made available to them. However, this does not mean they cannot be essential to the clan, and all are welcomed to the Eimai.

Benefits:
[ Worldliness ] –Due to their affiliation with nature, those of the Eimai are more in tune with the wilderness. They seem to have a certain sense of the life around them, and can tell when balance is not in order in the natural realm. They are many docile people, only looking to further their own knowledge on the world.

Flaws:
[ Secluded ] –Their tendencies to remain secretive and live in seclusion, makes the Eimai hard to become involved with. They tend to only appear when needed and catching sight of one otherwise would be a rare occurrence.

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"I would sooner trust my daughter to the Wolf Clan as a bride rather than as an emissary."
~ Unknown Crane noble

The Wolf Clan, like the other clans of the Empire, have their own unique familial structures. Despite the fights common among the wolves, their bond between allies is very strong and this extends to their relationships. A Wolf would never consider a mate for a political arrangement and all their marriages are made through a deep bonding and affection. Oddly enough, Wolf divorces are rare since the married parties usually know eachother for many years before forming a family unit. It is not uncommon for a Wolf to have more than one spouse, be they male or female- a rarity among the usually male or female dominated societies. The bonds are never purely sexual or superficial in the least and when a seperation does occur, it is done either very viciously or very respectfully depending on the breakdown of the relationship. The only vicious divorces occur when treason or a betrayal of the core of trust and loyalty has occurred.

The leader of the family unit is referred to as the Koukyuu, or the good spouse. The primary partner in the relationship, is aisai (if it is a wife) or aisaika (if it is a husband). The secondary wives are referred to as gosai and their male counterparts called keifu. The secondary partners always defer to the primary partner in the absence of the family head, or Koukyuu. Though it would seem like a tenuous balance, the family structure of the Wolf clan allows for effective family units and contributes to the prosperity of the nation as a whole.

The Koukyuu
Being a Koukyuu is not easy as it sounds. There is a responsibility of leadership and love placed on any Koukyuu that requires a certain amount of patience. Not only must they be able to provide for their spouses materially, but also emotionally. Koukyuu means "good spouse" and so, they must strive to live up to that in all sense of the word. It is their job to look after all members of their family and make sure there is plenty of fish and bread on the table and decent clothing for their spouses. It may not necessarily be their responsibility to buy these things directly, but it is certainly their responsibility to make sure that the money is there. The Koukyuu is the face of the family and the honor he or she gains falls on the faces of their spouses and children as well.

The Aisai and Aisaika
As the primary partner or first spouse, they are given preference and respect above the other spouses. Unlike other familial set-ups, they actually have more power that what is implied. The primary partners have final say in what other spouses the Koukyuu may take and deal even and equally with the Koukyuu. Not to say that the Gosai and Keifu are not equally but it is the respect given and earned within the family unit. Mostly, the primary partner will handle finances and function as head of household though this is not always the rule. They make sure that rice is purchased, the fresh water pots are full, and fresh fish is brought in for the evening meal. They pay taxes and balance the family budget and assist the Koukyuu however necessary. Often, the primary partners are the ones that are most beloved by the Koukyuu and consequently usually produce the most children (or sire the most).

The Gosai and Keifu
The secondary or third, sometimes even the fourth spouses come afterwards and are added to the family as the Koukyuu and others see fit. In order for a Koukyuu to take a second spouse, he or she must first gain approval from their primary partner. If they wish to take a third spouse, they must gain permission from their other two and so on. The "later spouses" as they are called are no less loved than any spouse who came before and consider the other spouses as brothers and/or sisters as the case may be. Mostly, they function in the family in a details capacity. They take care of the extraneous things, like gardening or assisting the primary partner in tasks. Often they will work to bring additional income to the family, this being the case even among the nobility.

Children
The offspring of any spouse is loved by the Koukyuu and all the spouses, regardless of order or primacy of birth. The entire family contributes to the raising of the children however it can and as a consequence, it is rare to find a Wolf that can say that he's had a bad family experience. These children are hardy, responsible, proud, and perhaps a bit spoiled with affection from the family unit. Loyalty and love is engrained into them from birth so when it comes time for them to form their own family units, they are usually sent off well-prepared from their families.

Marrying Outside the Clan
Long has this been a taboo to marry outside of one's clan but on occasion, it will happen. A Wolf will form a bond with another and bring them into their family. Among the Wolf clan, they would be treated as an outsider and acceptance would come gradually but let someone from outside the Wolf Clan make a remark about the Wolf's Crane, Bear or what-have-you spouse and the Wolf Clan will fall on them just the same as they would any other Wolf. A bit of a double standard but since when did the Wolf Clan care about such things?