Shugenja

Requirements

A Shugenja must be born into a divine noble family which can trace its roots back to the Emperor of the Eternal Sun. They must also show aptitude in the divine art of Shinjitsu, which is enabled by their ancestry.

Appointment

Shugenja are appointed by the Emperor of the Eternal Sun, and are inducted through a secret ritual performed at a Shinri shrine.

Duties

Shugenja are the cornerstone of any Shinri shrine, and are responsible for the spiritual well-being of the shrine and any who visit there.

Responsibilities

Shugenja are responsible for the management of their Shinri shrines, and they oversee the shrine priests and priestesses who work there. De facto, Shugenja are wealthy nobles who own land and usually have subjects.

Benefits

When an area experiences prosperity, great gifts are usually given to the local shrine which are chiefly enjoyed by the Shugenja. Shugenja can also collect taxes from their local subjects.

Accoutrements & Equipment

Shugenja generally wear long flowing kimono, with colors and designs matching their divine family. Shugenja also carry special fans which serve as foci for their magical power.

Grounds for Removal/Dismissal

If a Shugenja has been deemed to have brought some kind of great spiritual ill to their shrine, or have committed some great crime against the Empire, they may be removed from their position by the Emperor.

Cultural Significance

Shugenja serve as a direct link between the people and the Emperor of the Eternal Sun, as well as the Kami and other divine spirits.

L5R The wind favor by Gonzalo Ordóñez Arias

Type

Nobility, Hereditary

Equates to

Lord, Bishop

Source of Authority

The Emperor of the Eternal Sun, and by extension, Rakshi.

Length of Term

Life

Current Holders

• Konohana Sakuya

Reports directly to

Emperor of the Eternal Sun

Related Organizations

• Shinri