Taryu-jiai

A taryu-jiai duel functions nearly identically to an iaijutsu duel, except that elemental magic is used instead of swords. Prior to the duel, the challenger must receive permission from his daimyo, who must then request permission for the duel from the challenged shugenja's lord. Once both daimyo have agreed to the duel, the two contestants will face each other, and either will have a chance to concede victory to the opponent, as it is never a loss of face to recognize a more superior opponent.

The major difference between duels of bushi and shugenja is that shugenja tend to focus on their opponent's weaknesses less and instead simply shower the other person with raw elemental power. It is a spectacular sight to behold, and in the end, the shugenja who is in the better condition afterward is declared the winner.

Major References

 * Way of the Phoenix Pages 53-54.