Hitojichi (TCG)

Hitojichi was the Rokugani term for "hostage". Their purpose was to ensure the good behavior of their clan. The exchange of hostages dated to the dawn of the Empire, and it had been used by the Emperor in order to enforce the peace. Hostage exchange among samurai occurred frequently in the aftermath of court negotiations and as a consequence of war maneuvers. The hostages who were exchanged were treated extremely well by the host clan. They were always young, well before the age of gempuku, and often they were youth of acclaimed lineage and great talent. Their purpose was to ensure the good behavior of their clan.