Claws of Retribution
The idea for an Otokodate occurred prior, but was not made possible until the fall of the year 1340. Gatsu had a desire to rid the world of the savage bandits, now to be known as the Forest Killers. However, the creation of an Otokodate is no small task, and would require a massive amount of funds and manpower. Prior to 1340, the great and minor clans did not singularly seem keen on funding the endeavor without having the Otokodate work exclusively for them.
During a court session, word of Gatsu's exploits and motivations had circled around the courtiers that he was approached by a Crane samurai bearing the mon of an Emerald Yoriki, Asahina Nozomi. The blind artisan had similar motivations, and the two made a pact. With her assistance, all of the great - and minor - clans present at court, gave their promise of support for the Offices of the Emerald Magistrate to fund and supply this Otokodate, whose purpose was to eradicate the Forest Killers within the Shinomen Mori. Asahina Nozomi would act as a liason between Gatsu and the Magistrates.
Shortly after, in exchange for additional protection against bandit raids, the Unicorn clan gave permission to Gatsu to setup a training camp within their borders. He selected a location near their southern border, close to the Miya and Hare lands, due to their proximity to the Shinomen Mori.
After the devastation of the Horiuchi lands, Gatsu sent a number of his brotherhood on a special training excursion to assist with rebuilding. Not only was this a part of the demanding physical training regime, but also to show what the Otokodate stood for.
