V. Diplomacy

Hostages are one of the most important political guarantees in Sengoku. Powerful agreements between rival clans are often secured through the exchange or surrender of family members to ensure loyalty, compliance, and good faith.

A hostage is not considered a prisoner in the ordinary sense. In most cases, they are treated as an honored guest of the host clan and may participate in the political or social life of their new household. However, their safety ultimately depends on the continued observance of the agreement that placed them there.

Hostages are typically drawn from a clan leader’s immediate family or household, such as heirs, spouses, siblings, or important dependents. Within the application, hostages are represented by characters belonging to a clan’s dependent or heir structure.

A hostage may not freely return to their home clan unless released, exchanged, or otherwise permitted to leave by the host clan or by the terms of the agreement. They may still communicate through letters, maintain political relationships, participate in diplomacy, and influence events from within their host clan’s domain.

The surrender of a hostage is generally viewed as a major political concession and may represent trust, submission, necessity, or the seriousness of a treaty.

Harming or executing a hostage is an extremely serious political act. It may result in severe Honor loss, diplomatic isolation, declarations of revenge, or widespread political condemnation.

Some hostages may develop close ties with their host clan over time, creating divided loyalties, complicated relationships, and future political opportunities.