The Court of Emerald Eyes
Court Rank
The Shinma are at whole keenly aware of spiritual, internal development. The greater one is in touch with himself, particularly through cognitive exercise of Yin and Yang energies, the more powerful one’s magic can be. The more powerful one’s magic, the closer one may very well be to obtaining the Jade Key. With obtainment of the Jade Key, the Shinma has tread the path of Taoistic enlightenment back from damned immortality on Earth, and may return to Heaven. Lao Di, the original founder of the Lodge of Jade, walked this path only a few years past.
Rank (a Trait determined by adding one's permanent Yin+Yang scores) is an important overriding factor of status in hsien society. It demonstrates an internal balance, personal ability, and inner strength. Regardless of political status, hsien of higher Rank are given great respect. Their commands are rarely taken lightly and usually obeyed by Shinma of lesser Rank. Of course, the closer one's Rank, the less deference expected. A Rank 15 Shinma can ask a favor of a Rank 8 and expect it to be carried out. But a Rank 10 won't necessarily get the same reaction from the Rank 8. Shinma can intuitively detect each others' Rank with a Perception+Shentao (difficulty 8) roll. Pakua does not affect this roll, though ancient and wise hsien who like to travel in disguise as humble old crones develop clever illusions to this end.
Court Officials
The hsien do not organize themselves by Yin-Yang Rank alone. Within the Court of Emerald Eyes, there must also be leaders. These officials’ administrative jobs are in addition to every Shinma’s celestial duties.
Regent
The Regent is in charge of the Court at whole. It is his or her wisdom that guides the Court’s ultimate decisions and activities. The Regent approves new members and new diplomatic interests. The Regent will almost always be the highest-Ranked Shinma in the region, and must be the wisest and most capable of leadership.
Claviger of the Temple
Every Shinma of the Court of Emerald Eyes is obligated to take care of the Ten Do strip. It falls to the Claviger of the Temple, however, to especially concern him or herself with its well-being. The Claviger keeps the Ten Do clean and safe. This official also watches for dangerous influences wielded over visiting mortals.
Emissary of Dreams
The Emissary of Dreams is the leading diplomat of the Court of Emerald Eyes. This official must be well-versed in tact and protocol of all manner of shen. This includes the other Courts, but it also involves the Waigoren fae who dwell beyond Little Asia.
General
The General is an adviser to the Regent. His or her martial savvy and training is lent to the Court to protect its interests and populace. The General may also lead special missions or assign Courtmates to certain tasks that involve the security of the Court. This position falls naturally to the most combat-skilled member.
Delegates
The Court of Emerald Eyes can be divided into two "camps" -- the elemental "nobles", the kamuii, and the ferocious (or just precocious) animal "commoners", the hirayanu. A Delegate is chosen for each "camp" based on Rank and leadership ability. The Delegates may act in the Regent’s place when he is absent. These persons' main job, however, is to hear and represent his fellow Shinma's concerns, interests, and wishes, and convey them to the Regent.
Assistant Delegates aid their respective superiors in these responsibilities and act as surrogates when the main Delegates are away.
Hui T'ung
The hsien are encouraged to form hui t'ung (motleys). Hui t’ung are not mandatory, however. They may be formed with any Shinma of the Court and for any reasons.
Gatherings
Once a month, the hsien of the Court of Emerald Eyes gather to discuss relative issues, hail local cultural heroes, and invigorate themselves. Their Gatherings tend to be exciting events, minor fairs even. The kamuii and hirayanu delight in this opportunity to show off any of their latest artwork, hold philosophical debates, and discuss Oriental theology. Musicians, normally traditional Asian musicians, may play tunes and provide a merry show. The gatherings may last a few hours or an entire night. They are always revels worth attending, and many other Courtmates from the other Clans often hope to be invited.
However, not all Gatherings are parties. The more serious Shinma often hold their own meetings in quieter places. The revels are often held at the Ling Estate (see below), while the more serious Gatherings may be held in the Lodge of Jade or even in the Yamahasu Pagoda.
Once a month, a minor Gathering is held at the Lodge of Jade. This solemn but brief meeting involves the Shinma discussing current Court events. It also involves the donation of at least one point of yugen from each member to that Dragon Nest.
