The Five Rings

The world of Tokoro is governed by the elements, described by scholars as ‘The Five Rings’. These elements are Wind, Fire, Earth, Water and Void. Most recently Shadow has become an unofficial Sixth Ring, not yet fully recognised by the Empire.

Each of the elemental rings have distinct characteristics:

• • Earth (Chi) - Caution, composure, fortitude and patience.

  • Wind (Fū) - Precision, grace, subtlety and cunning.

  • Fire (Ka) - Ferocity, aggression, passion and creativity.

  • Water (Sui) - Efficiency, adaptability, perception and charm.

  • Void (Kū) - Instinct, intuition, aptitude and wisdom.

  • Shadow (Kage) - Secrecy, seclusion, obscurity and misdirection.

One closely aligned with fire may present a bold and potentially antagonistic attitude. However, with some alignment to Earth, their temper may be mellowed by the element’s poise. 

To some samurai, it is their mission to seek balance and inner peace. This is done by studying the five elements and aligning one’s soul to each of the elements as closely as possible and therefore possess a balanced and level headed personality.

When one can achieve balance amongst all of the elements, they are able to tap into the Void. For example, the tattooist monks of the Ryu require harmony with the elements to create their mystical tattoos. 

Some samurai have attributed their small connection to the Void as life saving, drawing on strength to help them get to safety after a mortal wound. However, only Void shindōshi can truly utilise the Void, but any balanced samurai can benefit from it.

In recent times, a secret sixth ring of Shadow was revealed to the world. However, this element exists outside of the harmonies of the original five, and not everything is understood about it yet. 

What is known however, is that it is diametrically opposed to the Void, and any who align to Shadow lose their connection to it. So far, Shadow has been considered the element of secrets.