Where the mountains meet the forests rises the Crane House. Inside this monolithic tower, the Order of Cranes amasses, though their aims have been inscrutable for generations.
This order, known as the Hisuideshi, serve the Jade Crane, a legendary figure. When gathered, they are rumored to have real power, with potential to beat any armies that threaten their home.
Some of the legends of Ikaiguchi mistakenly refer to the Order of Cranes as the Jade Cranes. In truth, the Jade Crane is a singular figure, if it even physically exists at all.
The Purpose of Cranes
Every Crane is a member of the Order of Cranes, one fragment of the power of the Jade Crane. They live to advance the inscrutable will of the Order, though they can be somewhat swayed by those acting for the good of Ikaiguchi. Many are gathered at Tsurunoya – the Crane House- but others are ready at various shrines around Ikaiguchi. These scattered cranes have been audience to heroes, emperors, and Ronin in their time.
When they come together, the Order of Cranes have power far beyond their individual limits. Protected by samurai, their rituals involve great sacrifice, but they must work, since Ikaiguchi still endures.
By contrast, isolated Cranes seem to slump, as though dead, but awaken when needed. These lone advisors are often consulted by those who live nearby. Though they do not speak or hear, their script is recognisable, though barely resembling that written by anyone else across Ikaiguchi.