Kuge

The Kuge represent the most elite of the samurai caste. They are the inherited nobility, those in powerful government positions and the Emperor himself.

Shogun
The Shogun is also a part of the Kuge, and ranks above all others except the Emperor./ Some would say that the Shogun has more power than the Emperor because he commandes the armies and maintains a far more visible profile, but the Shogun must swear fealty to the Emperor, who reign supreme.

Ranking
Others belonging to this group, ranked below the Emperor, include the Daimyo of the Imperial Families, Voice of the Emperor, Emerald and Jade Champion, and the Imperial Adivsor.

Clans
Next come the Clan Champions and then the Minor Clan daimyo only slightly below them. In practice however the greater avaiable resources means that the Great Clan Champions will have more sway over the courts. The fact that the minor clan daimyo are considered almost equal is merely a gesture of respect, nothing more. The daimyo of a great clan family will again outweigh a minor clan daimyo, despite status.

Family
Lowest of the Kuge are the immediate family of the leaders of each family, like the spouse or child of the Clan Champion.

Below the Kuge
Ranked below the Kuge are the Buke, the servants. All the minor clan samurai count as buke, except the leaders.

Major References

 * Legend of the Five Rings; Third Edition Page 27.

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