Hishin is a town shrouded in mystery and secrecy. Its history dates back to the early years of the Nagan Empire when it was established as a haven for locals who feared the newly established warlord in the region. Over time, it grew into a thriving community that learned to survive in the harsh wilderness and became renowned for its self-sufficiency and resilience. However, the town's isolation and self-sufficiency also made it a fertile ground for the growth of secret societies, including the infamous Ninja. The Ninja of Hishin are known for their deadly skills and their loyalty to the town's rulers, who have been rumored to use them for clandestine operations both within and outside the Empire. Despite its reputation, Hishin remained a loyal subject of the Nagan Empire and provided valuable resources and manpower to the Yurami clan. Many of Hishin's young men and women set out to join the Samurai ranks, and their skills in survival and combat were highly valued by the Yurami Clan.
Currently, Hishin is ruled by the young lady Onishi Hide, who inherited the town from her father, a respected elder of the community. She is known for her shrewdness and her determination to maintain the town's independence and secrecy. She is also rumored to have close ties to the Ninja and to use them for her own purposes. The town rarely opens up for outsiders, and those who do manage to enter are closely monitored and restricted to certain areas. The people of Hishin are proud of their independence and self-sufficiency and are wary of outsiders, especially those who may pose a threat to their way of life. Despite its isolation, Hishin remains a valuable asset to the Nagan Empire, and the Yurami Clan sends expeditions to the town periodically to recruit new Samurai and to trade for its valuable resources. The town's reputation for secrecy and its association with the Ninja continue to intrigue outsiders, but few have ever been able to penetrate its defenses and uncover its secrets.
Places of Interest
- Temple of Liao:
The Temple of Liao is a small shrine located on the outskirts of Hishin, dedicated to one of the five gods of the Nagan Empire. Liao is the god of autumn, fire, and death, and is highly worshipped by the Ninja of Hishin. The temple is a simple wooden structure, with a small courtyard and a few stone statues of elder figures of Hishin. The interior of the temple is adorned with images of Liao, and the walls are inscribed with prayers and offerings from the faithful. Many of the town's residents come to the temple to pay their respects to Liao, seeking blessings for the autumn harvest or for protection from the dangers of the wilderness.
- The Obsidian Anvil:
The Obsidian Anvil is the workshop of Nakamura Kamoda, the Weapons Master and Forgemaster of Hishin. Kamoda is a highly skilled blacksmith, renowned throughout the region for his expertise in crafting weapons and armor of exceptional quality. The workshop itself is a large stone building, with a high ceiling and several forges burning brightly. Kamoda and his assistants can often be found hammering away at glowing ingots of steel, shaping them into deadly weapons and sturdy armor. The walls of the workshop are lined with racks of weapons and armor, each piece a work of art in its own right. Kamoda is highly respected by the people of Hishin, and his weapons and armor are highly sought after by the Samurai and other warriors who know of him.
- Daggerhall Tavern:
The Daggerhall Tavern is the local watering hole of Hishin, owned and operated by the alluring lady Yoshida Higa. The tavern is a large wooden building, with a spacious main hall and several private rooms for those seeking a bit of privacy. The walls of the main hall are adorned with weapons and armor, trophies of Higa's many adventures as a mercenary and adventurer. The tavern is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with a wide selection of drinks and a hearty menu of food. Higa is a skilled cook as well as a skilled warrior, and her dishes are highly praised throughout the region. The tavern is also a popular spot for information gathering, as Higa is well-connected and often knows the latest news and rumors from around the region. However, those who cross her or cause trouble in her tavern are quickly shown the door, and Higa is not one to be trifled with.
- Silk Blossom Inn. The Silk Blossom Inn stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and refinement of the oriental village of Hishin. Its allure lies not only in its opulent decor and lavish offerings but also in the genuine warmth and hospitality extended to all who seek respite within its walls. Madame Yuuna's unwavering commitment to traditional service and elegance ensures that guests depart not just rested but enriched by the experience of this tranquil haven.
- Crimson Lotus Brothel. The Crimson Lotus Brothel stands as a clandestine refuge, a haven of discreet indulgence amid the whispers of secrecy that weave through the town of Hishin. Its allure lies not only in its opulent decor and luxurious offerings but also in the unwavering discretion it provides to the elite and visiting nobility who seek companionship and entertainment behind its crimson-veiled doors.
- The Elixir Emporium. An esteemed establishment that draws patrons from far and wide, despite its secrecy and mystique. Master Ryuu's reputation for providing rare and potent elixirs has made his emporium an essential destination for seekers of arcane knowledge, healing, and those who dare to tread into the realm of the unknown. The allure of the Elixir Emporium lies not only in its tangible offerings but also in the mysticism that surrounds its proprietor. Hishin's inhabitants speak in hushed tones about the possibility of Master Ryuu's potions holding the key to unlocking secrets and abilities beyond the realm of normal comprehension. Yet, caution and reverence accompany the fascination, for such potent elixirs could wield great power and unforeseen consequences.
- Whispering Tea Apothecary. A haven of holistic well-being. The establishment embodies Lady Kiyomi's philosophy that the secrets to wellness lie in the harmonious balance between nature and the human spirit. Visitors are welcomed into a tranquil space where the rustling of leaves and the gentle flow of a nearby stream provide a natural symphony. The shelves are lined with glass vials containing colorful elixirs, dried herbs, and carefully labeled remedies. Patrons seeking Lady Kiyomi's expertise often find themselves engaged in whispered consultations, where the herbalist tailors remedies to individual needs. Whether it's a common ailment or a more mysterious affliction, the apothecary's solutions are steeped in the wisdom of generations.