Ikoma Battle-Crier

The Ikoma Omoidasu usually started out as young Ikoma bards fresh from their gempukku who would be sent to Shiro no Yojin for lessons in history of battles. It is uncommon, but not unheard of, for these students to become so taken with the stories that they go out and join the Lion forces in battle, screaming tales of their ancestors to boost morale. These individuals are so valued that the Ikoma Daimyo has endorsed the practice of pursuing other paths than just a bard. (samurai p. 45)