Estate on Omishima Island, Santobun

Santobun is the crown jewel of Omishima, with its bustling markets, intricate temples, and, most importantly, a large population that prides itself on its fishing and mulberry farms. However, the political scene is rife with tensions. The Jin, Shogura, and Koike families are locked in a power struggle, each backed by a faction of villagers, making alliances and breaking them to become the Myoshu.

The island's atmosphere is thick with intrigue. Nightly meetings, political marriages, and secret pacts are the order of the day. Meanwhile, the common folks suffer, burdened by the uncertainty and the halted flow of resources due to the tax disputes. Adding to the turmoil, the Hosokawa and Yamana clans have established camps on the island's northern side. Soldiers can be seen drilling, war banners fluttering, and generals pouring over maps. Some villagers, hoping to escape the impending chaos, have started leaving, while others have decided to stay, fortify their homes, and defend their beloved island at any cost.

The Jin Family: The Jin are old money, with a lineage tracing back to the island's earliest settlers. They are traditionalists, valuing honor and age-old customs. They command respect from the elder populace due to their history. They have control over the largest mulberry farms, which ties them to the silk trade. This gives them significant economic clout. The head of the household and ostensible Myoshu of the estate is Lord Hiroshige. This is an old samurai family, and they likely have important connections among nearby clans. 

The Shogura Family: Charismatic and adaptable, the Shogura are merchants by trade. They've risen in power due to their connections with mainland traders. They have control over the fishing docks and trade routes, making them immensely wealthy. Their international connections could also bring mercenaries or allies if needed. This wealthy household is led by Lady Akemi and her son Daisuke, assisted by her daughter Hanako. They have a small flotilla of pirate boats, as well as a small contingent of hired ronin. 

The Koike Family: Scholars and spiritual leaders, they are mediators and are often called upon during disputes due to their vast knowledge of laws and lore. The Koike command the temples and the respect of the religious populace. They have ancient scrolls and artifacts, some of which are said to possess mystical powers. The community and family are led by High Priestess Yumi, who heads the cult of O-Yamatsumi the Mountain Kami.  

EVENTS: The PC's had a rough start with the Koike Clan initially, but sorted things out. Their introduction to the Shogura family actually went very well, but two surprising things happened. 

First, Tatsuzo loosened up enough to smile and have an enjoyable conversation about falconry with Daisuke and then a rousing game of Go with Hanako. It seems that the samurai and the daughter of the Shogura made a bit of a connection, perhaps. 

Second, Kuri got bored and went down the hill with the Shogura enforcer, a ronin named Takumashi. While at the big pirate shindig at the docks, some old enemies noticed him, and a brawl broke out. The brawl turned deadly, and Kuri was killed. He managed to slay one of his assailants, but the others fled the scene. When we left off, Kingoro and Tatsuzo were on the trail.