Vassal family

A vassal family is a specific family line within one of the families of the Great Clans. Few minor clans have the numbers to support such a formation. These are families of lesser samurai who generally serve a specific purpose within their parent family.

Naming of Vassals
The naming conventions of vassal families are somewhat complex, especially in relation to the simplicites of family names in the great families. Within their family, parent family, and clan, members of the vassal families are called by their vassal family name. In this way, their often unique means of service to their clans are easily recognized.

To those outside of their clans, however, vassal family samurai are identified by their parent families' names. To use a vassal family's name to an outsider over that of the family which they serve is an act of arrogance. In this manner, the individual would be implying that his lineage is more important and well-known than that of the family he serves.

An Example
For example, Naoko Sahijir is a member of the Naoko family, vassals of the Utaku family of the Unicorn Clan.To those within the Unicorn, she is known as Naoko Sahijir, as they are immediately aware of the relation of the Naoko and Utaku families. To those outside the Unicorn clan, Sahijir would be known most simply as Utaku Sahijir. If she wishes to recognize her own family, particularly if she wishes to be formal, she may introduce herself as "Utaku Sahijir of House Naoko" or as "Utaku Sahijir of Naoko."

If an outsider was visiting the lands of the Unicorn, these protocol would remain the same, unless that visitor was within the holdings of the Naoko family. In such a case, Sahijir could refer to herself as "Naoko Sahijir," as it would be assumed that the visitor would know he was in the lands of the Utaku family and would already know of their relation with the Naoko.

Major References

 * Secrets of the Phoenix Page 12.