Element

The Elements are forces, as well as the building blocks of most matter in the Mortal Realm. The five types of elements are Air, Earth, Fire, Void and Water. Elemental spirits, or kami, not to be confused with the Kami who founded the Empire, are present in nearly anything or being. These may be found in combination with other kami. For example, a stone may be composed of only the Earth element, while a cloud might have both Air and Water in its makeup.

Types of Elements
Below is a list and description of each of the five elements, as well as who among the Empire utilize each element in their shugenja schools.

Air
Air is characterized, on a personal level, as relating to reaction speed as well as one's awareness of the world around them. The Asahina, Soshi and Yogo put their main focus on Air.

Earth
Earth is characterized, on a personal level, as relating to physical persistance as well as one's sheer force of indomitable willpower. The Kuni and Tamori put their main focus on Earth.

Fire
Fire is characterized, on a personal level, as relating to physical agility as well as one's capacity for mental strength and depth. The Agasha, Moshi and Shiba shugenja put their main focus on Fire.

Void
Void is unlike all other elements. Void is all, but not. Please see Realm of Void for a greater discussion. Only the Isawa have a Void school.

Water
Water is characterized, on a personal level, as relating to pure physical strength as well as one's keen perceptions. The Iuchi, Kitsu and Yoritomo put their focus on Water.

Other Substances
The following substances, while not elements themselves merit attention due to their unique properties.


 * Jade, formed from Amaterasu's tears, represents purity and provides protection from the Taint. It is poisonous to the Shadowlands and because it exists in Jigoku as well as Ningen-do jade is able to harm Oni.


 * Obsidian, formed from Onnotangu's blood, represents corruption. Wounds given by obsidian weapons usually taint their victims.


 * Crystal is an uncorruptable substance that is present in all realms. While able to wound Oni crystal does not protect against the Taint.  The Ashalan are able to form Crysteel from sand, an impossibly light and strong material and use it to make weapons.  Crystal weapons are the only ones that the minions of the Lying Darkness are vulnerable to.


 * Pearl is sacred to the mysterious Naga. All of their power seems to come from them.  Pearls are not widely understood by humans, however.