The Geisha Order of Reincarnation

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(永遠の務) The Eternal Duty:  The Utsuribana was an ancient order of bards, artists, and artisans devoted to creating art in freedom. It originated with Seisho Fushimi Shō, born from her clan, the Fushimi, who united with the Seisho through marriage to promote artistry and preserve cultural legacy. Their union ushered in a new era of peace for both women and men. From this, their eternal duty was born, an original purpose distinct from the Scattered Suns Geisha. They aimed to sing songs of freedom, to aid the world without bias, and to share poetry and music that would lead to an age where no one is trapped by ideals that cause suffering.

They sought to create a path for those who felt ill at ease with themselves, offering comfort and change rather than stagnation beneath a leader or ideology, in peace with no politics. Their goal was to give men who felt out of place and women whose creativity had been stifled a renewed spark of light. This eternal duty was to safeguard joy, so that laughter and better lives could flourish. Without violence, with only the purity of mind and soul.

That is to say, such a duty was upheld to ensure the reincarnation of one’s life would bring better joy in the next generation, for it was believed that only a calm heart could aim to seize a better future. To become guides like their Lesser Kami.
 

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Shinchu, Lesser Kami Of Moths (Mani).

Father of Reincarnation And Omens

As the Geisha order continues to follow the Shizen no Kakumei's faith, they do not worship the gods with zealotry but instead offer them deep respect. Among these honored Kami is Shinchu, a lesser kami who sacrificed its own immortality to remain within the mortal plane like the other of its kind(the Mani). Shinchu is the father who guides lost souls to the entrance of Tokoyo’s bridges. Though unable to cross into Tokoyo itself, it leads the wandering so they may find the light of the gateway. Shy by nature, the Father of Reincarnation carries only a single candle upon its back, allowing others to follow its gentle glow.

Shinchu is also revered as a beacon of both fortune and misfortune. Along its path, it leaves strands of silk in countless colors. Many speculate that this Kami is the source from which Geisha and all artisans gain the materials for crafting garments and creating art. Yet these silks hold meaning: each is tied to a person’s soul. One’s favored color reflects their nature, while other hues may signify good or ill omens. Only through sincere effort can one change the inner color woven into their spirit by these silks.

For Shinchu’s light is merely the beginning of a new path. It is up to the Geisha, through reflection, growth, and art, to transform their inner selves and discover true peace.

While  it’s almost up to interpretation, some colors, this is what each color for dresses means, of course, it’s not everything, but some examples:

Some common beliefs surrounding this kami are shared among the Geisha of this order, all symbolizing moths and their nature:

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Hierarchy in the Utsuribana:

The Okiya (おかみ)

An Okiya is a leader within the Geisha order. Their responsibility is to oversee the growth and well-being of every Geisha, ensuring they remain healthy and happy and fulfill the duties they accept. The Okiya are the mothers of all women and men in the order, the beacons of guidance and leadership that all Geisha ought to strive to become like.

Geisha (芸者)

A Geisha is a Maiko who has fully mastered the role of an entertainer and successfully completed all the trials to ascend into this position. Now, they may take Maiko under their guidance without needing approval and may accept jobs without seeking the consent of an Okiya. At this stage, a Geisha is expected to make no mistakes, as they must remain perfect in all their duties. Becoming a Geisha is a serious commitment, and those who quit the role are not viewed kindly by their peers.

Maiko (舞妓)

The role of a Maiko is for those who are new and walk upon this path, desiring to become a Geisha in their foreseen future. Nevertheless, since achieving the role of a Geisha requires perfection, only a few ever progress beyond this rank. A Maiko must always be accompanied by another person when going out on duties, and must first consult with the Okiya before accepting a job. To ascend in rank, a Maiko must complete three significant tasks, each representing the domains of the Haven's faith, to prove they are worthy of the honor and responsibility that comes with being a Geisha.

Taikomochi(太鼓持) 

All must be granted freedom, and sometimes men within the Temple, or beyond, may feel wary of battle and wish to pursue a different path. The role of a Taikomochi was created for them: men who aspire to become artists themselves through makeup, dress, and song. Like the Geisha, they are trained to be bards and are given this title, which distinguishes them from a Maiko while still allowing progression within the order. This first step honors their desire for freedom and self-expression.

Because of this role, they often act as a more independent force and are given more leeway than a Maiko. Nevertheless, the common rules of the order must still be observed for advancement to higher ranks.

Appearance(外 観):

(OOC: Some Minecraft skin References)

One of the most defining features of a Geisha is her flawless, porcelain-like skin. This is achieved through the careful application of rice powder, for this delicate and white complexion is a sort of paint for the sharp accents of black eyeliner and deep red lip stain. The makeup precisely applied serves as a cultural symbolic thing that the Geisha is not just a woman or a man but a figure who transcends the ordinary to embody purity, grace, and ancient tradition.

Equally remarkable is a Geisha's blackened teeth, a grandiose distinction against the pale skin, which has an important meaning beyond its aesthetic function. It's an art called Ohaguro; it signifies her commitment to the path of the Geisha, a visual marker of dedication and cultural devotion that makes one's teeth cleaner. However, the usage of Ohaguro is often only bestowed on the most honored and high-ranked Geisha. Furthermore, some old-fashioned individuals consider showing blackened teeth in public a shameful act to avoid; for this, fans are used to hiding smiles and similar expressions.

All in all, Geisha are undoubtedly beautiful men or women, perhaps among the most beautiful. Yet their appearance, shaped by tradition and artistry, sets them apart from conventional standards of beauty, for they are beings who rise above and must uphold an undying finesse.

Way Of Dressing:

(装い )

The most prominent feature in a geisha's garments is their kimono, which can also occasionally serve as a rank indication. Therefore, a Maiko might opt for robes with more vibrant hues and complex patterns, whereas elderly Geisha traditionally don fresh robes with simple yet sophisticated designs.

The Geisha's footwear does not look like any other. The elevated wooden sandals, referred to as Geta, were constructed to raise the Geisha off the ground to prevent her traditional garment from dragging in the dirt.

A key aspect of a Geisha's look is their hair, which is typically styled with overly fancy accessories. The Geisha's hair is ornamented with kanzashi, which are hair ornaments. According to the season of the year or the event, these hair-pins might feature different designs and are often handmade from natural resources such as silk flowers, metal, or wood. A Geisha may, for instance, select a more subtle decoration for a formal occasion or put flowers in their hair in the spring.

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Instruments

(楽 器)

One of the core duties of a Geisha is to be an entertainer and to uplift the spirits of all who come into their presence. Whether they are soldiers returning from tours, common folk, or anyone in one's domain, down on their luck. Given this important role, the instruments they choose to play must be nothing short of perfect to prepare all for rebirth and have a greater future. The decision of which instrument to wield is therefore deeply personal, reflecting both the beauty of their souls and their lifelong commitment to the duty to ensure reincarnation, and their connection given by Shinchu. As one of the trials, a Maiko will have to craft their own musical instrument and hold it dearly as if it were the sword of a Samurai.

Some commonly chosen instruments consist of: 

三味線)Shamisen: The shamisen is a three-stringed instrument played with a plectrum. Geisha who wield this instrument are often dynamic and expressive in their performances. They easily flutter between different emotions, from tepid, nerve-wracking ones to playful and catchy ones. These are the Geisha who are extremely versatile and volatile, not only in their craft but in everything they do.

琴)Koto: This instrument is a large 13-stringed zither, which rests on the ground during use. The koto produces a soft, melodic sound when played. Thus, its players are extremely refined and composed. These are the Geisha who display a sense of tranquility and stoicism everywhere they go.

笛)Fue: The fue is a handheld instrument, usually crafted out of bamboo wood. Its high-pitched, free-flowing sound offers a sense of joy and lightness, and so, the geisha who play the fue are often joyful themselves, easygoing, and free-flowing. Its handheld nature allows for the Geisha to have a high level of performance.
 

Katami (形見):

The Katami is a memento, a record carved onto an instrument with pages to honor the deceased members of the Order. Those who have fallen are remembered so they may never be forgotten. The Lesser Kami of Moths encourages us to keep their spirits alive within our memories, guiding souls that may have been lost and the knowledge they bore. Thus, they become heroes or heroines of yore, a symbol of respect and remembrance. This record will be updated accordingly, and this is only the first of many.

The Red-Flower Dragon( @RingAroundRosey):

OOC: Nothing of this common knowledge. A reworked GEISHA order, I reused some parts. Thank you @lattefor the things she had written before. The Formatting of the forum is still wacky. I tried my best

Kneeling upon the mossy forest floor was a girl whom had been born within conflict, raised through conflict, and lived through conflict. Tears dripped down her cheeks with soft patters in the dirt, head lowered toward the ground. Slowly she lifted her gaze, up to the cherry blossom she had grown in memory of her mother, the very being she had sworn to protect. 

The girl was but a shell of her former self, for every reason she had sought to climb alongside had left, or passed on. The Rokudō Temple had been torn down, her family slain one after the other.. For what reason is there to exist when you've failed in your purpose? 

It began to rain, hard. The rain blended with her tears, the girl gazing to the sky. Her hand grasped the hilt of the wakizashi at her side, drawing it with ease before pressing the tip of the blade to her stomach..

She paused.

...

.....

.........

Silence filled the air, and when the sun rose, the shrine was left still.

[!] The following letter would find their way into the possession of those Seisho Miyu had fond memories of interacting with...

((I do not have the energy to write everyone's names, if you know your character had met and known Miyu- feel free to assume you got this letter. If you're unsure, DM me.))

"Ohayougozaimasu, friend. Thank you, for everything you've done for me. I appreciate your presence, and I am grateful to have met you within my short life. Unfortunately.. I cannot find the drive to remain here, for I have failed in the one task I had in my life. Gomenasai, for leaving this way.. demo, I cannot see myself continuing. If you wish to speak with me, please come find me, I shall linger for a few days longer."

- Seisho Miyu

"All that we are is the result of what we have thought."

For a fleeting moment, Seisho Ehiba felt the entire weight of the world press down upon her shoulders. It crushed her breath, seeped into her bones, and threatened to break her entirely. Yet amidst the ache, only one thought remained as tears blurred her vision and sorrow bound her body in stillness as she realized this was what the world truly felt like. This was the pain borne by the countless souls who lived beneath war’s shadow, the grief of those who lost their loved ones, the silent suffering inflicted by powers far beyond their control.

“How selfish of me… Is this what others feel? Is this what they endure?”

This unfortunate woman who was born beneath an eclipse and branded by fate as one meant for ruin, she found herself unable to turn away. She could not ignore the cries of the young, the pleas of the elderly, nor the desperation of the weak. Compassion clung to her like a curse, one she could never abandon. It gnawed at her heart with every passing moment, consuming her, shaping her, and yet… enlightening her.

For the first time, that pain sharpened her senses rather than drowning them. The world opened itself to her: the whisper of leaves, the tremble of wings in flight, the soft echo of rain against stone. She felt it all, as though she had become one with the pulse of life itself. And in that communion, she understood, true understanding demanded sacrifice.

She witnessed her own body torn asunder, torn by nature itself, an unending agony that burned through her flesh and burrowed into her heart, as though molten fire coursed through her veins. It was her offering, her price to pay in order to understand. Her death, not of flesh alone, but of self.

Through trembling breath and fading strength, her voice still rose in a whisper.

“I shape my own destiny. What I become is my choice alone. I must… for others. I must let go of what I was.”

“I need… to be of use. To guide those who come after. To protect the world that still breathes.”

And yet, within that torment, something answered her call.

Hands reached for her, not to pull her free, but to guide her deeper. Many hands. Familiar hands. Loving hands. They did not save her from the descent; they walked with her into it. Step by step, she followed them through a path of revelation, one paved with both agony and grace. It was heaven and hell intertwined, a pilgrimage through suffering and goodness alike.

She understood then. This was not punishment. This was ascension to fully serve her triumvirate, and with gratitude in her broken heart, she surrendered herself fully, letting go of fear, of name, of form. She released her final attachment to the world she had known, accepting the truth she had long resisted.

To protect the world, one must sometimes cease to be, and so, she gave herself completely to plunge into the unknown of abstract truth, and thus...

Seisho Ehiba was no more.

The Geisha was Dead.

[!] 

Small constructs with the likeness of a Geisha but made of stones and wood, or birds would fly around to the members of The Haven, and their closest allies. Such a missive isn’t public knowledge.

The art of hunting, and Yokai hunting, has been passed down from generation to generation. Even Joy Wonder, in his footsteps, learned how to hunt and respect nature, and knows how such deeds took many lives. Still, Chirunushi-sama would expect nothing less from us: to fight for our survival, to take, but also to give back to nature. Yet despite this purpose I set for myself, my body at times falls ill, and I struggle to uphold my honor in caring for you all. Thus, I devised a system that allows you to aid our temple while also making your efforts rewarding.

We will begin our Slayer division. Unlike the Komori, who act as guardians, this division is meant for hunters of all kinds, to slay the dark and to bring food to our temple, not a proper rank but a project of sorts. Regardless, one rule stands above all:

Do not kill any tiger.

Such will be the rewards:

• Boar, wolf-sized creatures, small birds: 5–10 mons (minas) depending on the animal.
• Bear-sized creatures, lions, hippos, etc: 15 mons (minas).
• Magical creatures: 25 mons (minas) + a custom weapon.
• Lesser Vampire: 30 mons (minas) + personal tea.
• Any dark creatures: 40 mons (minas) + a custom weapon.
• High-Yokai, such as Gashadokuro-level threats or notable figures: 50 mons (minas) + a ticket for free food and drinks for one Kami Month and a weapon.

Be sure to bring proof of your hunt. This is not only for sustenance, but also to gather trophies for our group’s duties and ensure we put down wicked creatures where they lurk. I truly hope to see grand achievements from you all.

聖翔 恵刃

Seisho Ehiba,

Symphony Druid, 

Dōshi Of The Haven,

Elder Geisha,

The Pale Tiger.

The Rokudō Haven is a sanctum forged by Seisho Ehiba, a member of the Seisho clan once regarded as a bad omen, yet now walking the same path as her kin: a path of freedom, unchained from the shackles of any government. From her humble beginnings in Sakuragakure, where she served as a guardian of the tigers, she taught many the ways of art and spirit. It was there that the first Ogham Stones were raised, dedicated to the Tiger Mani, Oijin (Rahar), in an effort to unite the druids beneath the Order of the Wreath and stand against Mordring and other evils that would twist nature’s gift.

Yet in her devotion to the Tiger Mani, she discovered her true calling lay not in servitude, but in freedom, and in honoring her own dream. With the deepest respect, she parted from Koyo-kuni, setting forth to begin a new chapter in her clan’s story, and hopefully to heal the world from vile corruption.

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(清章氏族) The Seisho Clan: The Seisho clan was once a great family of retainers, known for their mastery of diplomacy, thievery, and subtle arts through their worship of the natural Kamis, and the ever-known Triumvirate. They primarily served two powerful clans: the Igarashi and the Sugihara. Yet above all, the Seisho remained united, devoted to influence and wealth under the guidance of Seisho Bashira, a man called the one of many smiles, blessed with the gift of easing sorrow with his grin.

But peace did not last. A bitter conflict arose between the Igarashi and Sugihara. The Igarashi, vile as devils, were tyrants who sought to spread the chaos of the Demonic Shogun and their Order of the Hydra. The Sugihara, in contrast, stood as justicars, striving to bring light into despair. This strife drove rifts within the Seisho clan, leading to heated arguments among its many branches. In the end, Bashira himself was betrayed and struck down for his attempts to halt the war. His death sparked the first Seisho civil war, as the clan split! Some sided with the demonic Igarashi, others with the stoic Sugihara.

The bloodshed was dreadful. Countless Seisho turned their blades upon one another, either as spies or soldiers, sacrificing their lives and livelihoods for a senseless war between two factions that, in truth, cared little for them. Regardless of whether the side was deemed good or evil, they were pawns in a GREATER game. Ultimately, the Igarashi and their Order of Hydras were repelled, their capital reduced to ruin. Yet victory brought no peace to the Seisho. A deep scar had been carved into their clan, one that could never be healed, and while the Sugihara celebrated their triumph, the Seisho clan could only mourn.

While the Seisho were in disarray, one among them who had supported the Igarashi beheld all the pain left behind. His name has been lost through the passing millennia, yet he was known as a young man with alienish pink eyes. Rumors claimed he was Bashira’s son, for many called him Joy Wonder, a youth who seemed able to bring freedom to those around him.

After witnessing the consequences of the conflict, he wandered to the ruins of the Igarashi clan, where he found a woman in despair, one of the few Igarashi survivors. Rather than harm her, he offered her comfort, and in time a bond grew between them. They swore never again to walk the path of conflict. With that vow, they fled alongside a handful of Seisho, Igarashi, and even Sugihara, who wished only to escape endless bloodshed. Together they journeyed until they reached a snowy forest on the edges of Ihon. There, survival proved harsh, and a sacrifice had to be made. Legend says Joy Wonder called upon his natural power, and with the aid of the Kami, he transformed into a tree, offering his wood and shelter to his companions. From this act, the first haven on the borders of Ihon was built, giving birth to a lineage rooted in peace.

Nowadays, that lineage in Ihon is guided by a woman named Seisho Fushimi Shō, a geisha born to a family of travelers who had once found comfort in the first haven. She is married to Seisho Rin, a sickly man of devout faith and the son of the late Seisho Yami, the last known worshipper of Nokumi.

(現代) The Present day: The Rokudō Haven was indeed shaped by Seisho Ehiba, yet the structure itself was ancient, already standing in Azuras. It bore the stories of Joy Wonder and his travels, said to be one of the few buildings he raised in his search for the rightful place across the world. Within its halls lay scriptures of the old faith, and beneath it, legends spoke of one of the Six Paths to enlightenment. Through Ehiba’s efforts, these teachings were renewed. Once promised to bring ruin to the Seisho, she instead became their guide, ensuring that their culture would not fade.

Hidden deep within a forest, Rokudō is a temple and refuge for weary travelers. Here, one may share tea, rent a room, or converse with locals about the natural ways. Those who linger longer are often invited to learn the blessings of Shizen no Shito and the faith of the Haven, Shizen no Kakumei; the path of becoming an Apostle of Nature, tested through trials meant to prepare one for enlightenment and their duties ahead.

The haven, however, is never to be a beacon of politics, harboring people known as the Kakumei. All who reside within are protected and granted holy asylum so long as they are not wicked or guilty of unpunished crimes. For the exiled, the unjustly hunted, and the weary, The Rokudō Haven offers comfort, safety, and family.

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(要約) The Summary: Shizen no Kakumei is an open faith, where neither slavery nor coercion into its path is ever accepted. Its Apostles seek the ultimate freedom of body, mind, and soul. Even the commandments of the Kami are not followed to appease a higher entity, but rather to discover contentment within oneself.

In this pursuit of becoming one’s truest self, there exist six paths, six realms, or rather, six tenets. The creed teaches that these realms form a bridge stretching beyond the cosmos, and through our bodies, minds, and souls, which all may ultimately lead to a paradise: a realm of forests beyond any understanding of mortal kind. Only those who embody all six paths may be welcomed there. This eternal realm is called Tokoyo(the Fae Realm), an otherworld where one lives forever in youth and joy.

Nevertheless, these are the six paths:

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(常世) Tokoyo: Chiyoko-sama (Cerridwen), Nokumi-sama (Nemiisae), and Chirunushi-sama (Cernunnos) form the Triumvirate known within the Haven. They reside in Tokoyo, a realm that stretches endlessly into the cosmos. It is depicted as an eternal forest divided into three parts, each representing a different season, with one overseen by each member of the Triumvirate. Those who are deemed worthy are sent there to dwell in peace after their long journey.

Yet, Nokumi will at times cast Tokoyo into chaos to be noticed and heard, reminding all that death is ever-present. This brings her into conflict with Chirunushi, the guardian of the forest and its people, a being of war sworn to defend those who cannot fight. To fulfill this role, Chirunushi created the lesser Kami (often referred to simply as MANI by the common people) to stand against the fae creatures and chaotic events summoned by Nokumi.

Chiyoko, the strongest of the three for the main art, comes from her and dwells in the highest layer of her domain, shining like an eternal sun. She rarely intervenes, knowing that conflict is as necessary as love for true peace to exist. When she does act, it is often to heal the wounded or ease the burdens of her companions. Some whisper that the real reason for her distance is far heavier; that she focuses her strength on keeping a destroyer imprisoned beneath the sun of her domain, something, or perhaps someone.. Still, those who ascend the sun and reach the pinnacle of Chiyoko’s realm are met with her radiant smile and granted the chance to be reborn anew into the mortal world.

And with their divine presence, it is said they have visited Joy Wonder’s dreams to guide him in building the ranks. While the Haven offers freedom and no tyranny, hierarchy must still be respected, as reverence is central to the Oyashimen’s culture. Nevertheless, these are the ranks:

These are the Three Kami:

Chiyoko(Cerridwen):
 

Nokumi(Nemiisae):

Chirunushi(Cernunnos):

OOC PREFACE: This is the culture of my group. Obviously, nothing is public knowledge as I'd rather people find out rply. You may say there are rumors of a temple that hosts the lost within a shrouded forest blessed by some natural gods.  Sadly, the formatting is messed up due to the forums being weird. So, it isn't as great.

 

Within our blessed sanctuary, those graced by the divine gift of nature; whether from another Kami or from Chiyoko-sama herself, they came together to fight evil and protect the cycle of life as it should be. No matter the differences, whether Fae, human, elf, or even dwarf, practitioners of Shizen No Shito, or simple natural wielders or priestesses of wood, we stand in unison. We share the same foes and the same duties. And so, the Order of the Wreath was forged with simple rules of cooperation: to remain active, to become a menace to those of the dark and put fear into their restless hearts, and to create a collective force to fight off, firstly, the mountain, and secondly, Mordring and her hordes, or any similar wicked entity.

Nevertheless, all signatures must:

• Never fall to evil or false belief. Xionists, Ibleesians, and the mountain god are our enemies. We stand against them and will leave no one behind.
   
• Aid one another. Members of the Wreath are bound to help each other. There is no ignoring and no selfishness; we are selfless in our pursuit to aid our fellows and preserve the cycle of life, even if it means sacrificing our own safety.
   
• Value freedom. There is no single leader in this order, no high law or national rule to follow. Each of us carries our own cultures of nature, which must be respected. Should disagreements arise, meetings will be held to resolve them. Be it for unnatunament within the members or other issues.
   
• Maintain communication. It is wise to let either The Aspen, Ehiba, Ichika, or the Magnolia know of new members who join. Communication must be upheld to avoid our order becoming needless chaos and to avoid spies.

聖翔 恵刃

Symphony Druid, Yamabushi Of The Sanctuary And Okami Of The Kōyōmachi, Seisho Ehiba

Brother Kodiak

Hierophant of the Druidic Order, Servant of the Wilds, The Aspen, Wicker Druid

Sasha

Sister Gemstone

Malîna Aavik

Volcano Druid, Sil, High Priestess of the Wild Faith & Priestess of Vesper

Druid, Gul’ash, High Priestess of the Wild Faith & Luna’illi

Magnolia Druid, Arle Sirame-Vulnrith, High Priestess of the Wild Faith and Sha’maidan

The Harvest Druid ,Thalen Thurien

Lady Kato Ichika

 Solar Druid, Purple Butterfly Samurai, Monk of Nichi Jin, Yamabushi, Clan Head of Kato, The Tōshi-Ga of Koyo Kuni, and Barrel Princess

︶︶୨୧︶︶

Private information for those who attended the meeting(OOC: Do not metagame):

Among the members of the Wreath, it was proposed that, as a last resort, we use the gift of the Mani to summon Rahar, the Tiger Mani of rebellions known among the Oyashimen as the lesser Kami Oijin, father of sacrifices, to aid us in fighting the tyrant mountain Kami, and to stand unite atthe siege as to use our gifts at the best of our capabilities.

Our primary symbol for recognizing one another will be a crown of flowers: three plants, with a white one at the center, a red one on the right, and a violet one on the left. We have to be wary, for there are those who may abuse our blessing to disturb the balance.

Lastly, thanks to Gul’ash’s ingenious plan, we are to contact the ancient tree Kyorli and convince it to join our order and cause. It may be our best next move.

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A geisha stood upon a bridge, broken, impaled by thorns and daggers alike. They slithered across her limbs and spine, weighing her down, hunching her beneath the burden of her wounds. She was distorted, lost—one who had once loved in her insecurities. Now, her true self was in plain sight. Her eyes gazed down at her reflection, her body wreathed in butterfly wings, tears descending from a shrouded countenance. Moreover, in that truth, in how she saw herself, a teacher appeared.

This teacher bloomed with flowers. A hand was offered. Then, like a lost child, the geisha reached out and was guided. This time, the bridge was visible. Forged from astral soil, leading her toward a great forest where the impossible became possible. The teacher lifted her hand, and it seemed to stretch toward the constellation above that looming treetop canopy.

“This is a place where dreams come true. Now that you are true to yourself… You can see past, and beyond it.”

The teacher's voice was calm. The geisha’s weeping slowed. Her eternal tears stopped falling, and now, a gentle smile rested there. Her crippled body trembled, yet she reached for the forest, longing to embrace it. Doubts of whispers echoed, tempting her to stay forever in that place. But the teacher, still firm yet polite, pressed a hand to the wounded geisha’s shoulder. Said geisha tried to speak, but her voice came only in gibberish melodies: haunting symphonies, and soundscapes incomprehensible to the ear. Still, the teacher smiled with understanding.

“This realm is beautiful,” she said. “But like nature, it can be merciless. Not evil. But the whispers may convince you to remain here forever, and you must not falter.”

The geisha nodded, worry carved across her features. Nevertheless, this was a rare moment of peace, free of duty, war, and expectation. She wished she could remain within it. But the teacher reminded her of what she was capable of… of who she was.

“Now, you know how to wander between worlds. Remember this bridge—the key to travel within the eternal forest.”

The insectoid wings peeled from her face, revealing the shattered visage of a sorrowed woman. Still, she grinned—for at last, she could feel joy again. She wanted to express her gratitude to the one who had helped her walk this path. Her reflection, bathed in truth, echoed a single name:

       “ⱮąɠղօƖíą-ʂҽղʂҽí.”

“ⱭɾƖҽ…”

“Yes, Ehiba?”

She could no longer answer. The melodies overtook her voice once more—gibberish tones, unintelligible but angelic. And yet, buried within them, one could hear a single soft word: thank you. The thankfulness of a child reunited with family. Of a dreamer whose dream had taken root in reality. Consequently,  the two of them returned to the other side, walking the bridge together, forevermore.

The ever-ending dream was over.

⊱༺༒︎༻⊰

Ehiba awoke, once more surrounded by nature, not within that dreamlike realm. Her bones ached, each movement a struggle. She could barely crawl, yet with determined effort, she made her way to the nearby pond. Her single eye gazed into the water, seeking her reflection. But what stared back at her… was not her. At least, that’s what she believed now. It felt wrong.

And so, an idea formed—she would change, reshape herself into something that made her feel right, something that made her feel comfortable. Still, a question lingered like a plague in her mind. Would her ancestors accept what she was about to become? Would they embrace the self she chose to be?

Or what she wished to be. What will she slowly morph into?

A thought and questions for another day.

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This message would be spread across the world.

Uncle O has always appreciated nature, from the calming whistle of the wind to the peaceful sounds of animals. Thus, the Tiger Sanctuary was built: to protect nature, to safeguard endangered species, and to make a difference. For this purpose, with an art refined as “Shizen no Shito,” where the three domains of our most beloved Kami of nature come together to form a holy gift of healing and balance, we shall assist our people's cycle of life always to prosper, and to ensure the dream of Uncle O will never die.

So, with the purity of Chiyoko, the passion of Nokumi, and Marinsama’s care for the forests, we shall bring forth a new age of life among our people. I, who have been bestowed the holy art of Shizen no Shito, shall seek to take apostles under my wing—to teach them our ways and culture. However, beware: the trials to come will bruise your soul and mind. They will shape your form into something purer—your mind will become sharper, and you must learn to accept your transformation. Death is a possibility. Look for me in Koyo-kuni, if you are an Oyashiman seeking to learn.

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Most of all, nothing is finalized yet, but our circle shall be established in the Tiger Sanctuary, as mentioned before. There will be two roles:

Shinkan (神官): These will serve in the clergy, holy figures who teach the sacred tales of history and the meanings of our Kami. Remember, we do not worship the Kami; we respect their domains. We strive to embody them—to become purity, to become passion, to become the forests. Lastly, a Shinkan may choose to dedicate themselves fully to a single Kami or two. However, those who wish to honor all three equally will become a Shinkan of the Triumvirate.

Komori (虎守): The tiger guardians of the sanctuary and our beliefs. They serve as our protectors, not above the Ashigaru or samurai. A Komori swears to uphold the balance of life and nature. They are the claws and fangs of the tiger, defending all who dwell within. While they may participate in holy deeds, their primary role is to form the backbone of the Sanctuary’s protection.

聖翔 恵刃

Seisho Ehiba

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