Shiro no Yojin Dojo

Shiro no Yojin was once a Crane holding, but in the 11th century it was seized by a Matsu army avenging a slight made by a Crane courtier. The Lion have held the castle since, and it has proved advantageous in the occasional scrabbles between the two clans due to it's proximity to Kakita lands. The castle is firmly under the control of the Matsu and Ikoma who see it as a point of pride to continue the fighting in this region. There are alway a large number of Matsu stationed here, as well as a significant number of Ikoma tacticians. An assignment here is much coveted by any Matsu.

Traditions
The dojo at Shiro no Yojin has only existed for a few decades, and the sensei have not managed to establish many traditions. One of their more interesting practices is a full attack drill in the middle of the night when a new class has arrived, an elaborate affair that involves everyone in the castle. By determining how ready the students are for an attack the teachers can determine the amount of training they will require. A little known and very questionable practice at the dojo is the dressing of all targets and practice equipment in Crane armor. Guests at the castle are of course not allowed in the areas where this takes place, and the Matsu are fully aware that if the Crane were to discover this it would be percieved to be a great dishonor. The Matsu do of course not fear that the Crane will attack them, but are loathe to give them more ammunition for the courts.

Training
The Students at Shiro no Yojin are trained as if they were soldiers in a time of war. Double watch is kept around the clock, and patrols constantly survey the entire region. This is observed by the students, who learn from observing the soldiers stationed here. It is an exhausting and punishing regime, but the students respond well to it, and some of the finest bushi the Matsu have ever seen have come from the dojo here.

Sensei
The dojo here was established after the War of Spirits, and the chief sensei Ikoma Akiuji served during it's entire operation.

Notable Sensei

 * Ikoma Akiuji

Notable Students

 * Matsu Hyun

Major References

 * Way of the Samurai Page 43.