Hayashi Valley
Background
Hayashi is a mountainous forest area northeast (1e, 2n) of Exedoria, in the Far East of the Realm. Set in a steep-sided valley is an ancient settlement of humans, half-elves, nezumi, and vanara. Though of different races, these beings are united in their millenia-old culture that is steeped in ritual, tradition, and rigid class and family lines.
Shinrin
This is the thick bamboo forest, alternately known as The Shinrin or Chikurin Forest, that covers the southern end of the valley. There is a Monastery in the eastern part of the forest (see below) and a ninjutsu school beneath that (further below), but otherwise, the forest is inhabited by various spirit folk. There is a shrine in the west that travelling monks will often visit. The Semai Pass, which leads toward the farming village of Kawazu, is defended by samurai.
Four Winds
Built centuries ago by Zasu Yurei in Chikurin Forest, this is a monastery that trains sohei, or warrior monks, to worship and glorify Uindo, the god of the winds (cf. gods of MD).
Kawazu
This is a farming village in the middle of the Hayashi valley. Rice fields surround several peasant’s homes which are in turn clustered around the homes of feudal lords. (not open)
Goju Ninjutsu School
Hidden beneath the Monastery of the Four Winds is a ninja clan of skaven that has waged a guerilla war against the samurai and the ruling daimyo of the Hayashi Valley. (not open)