Storyline Events - Test of the Ruby Champion

At the request of the Shogun, and by decree of the Emperor Toturi III, Son of Heaven:

This year marks a change to the tournaments known as the Jewels of the Empire. For many years now the samurai of Rokugan have recognized their best at these events, and positions of importance and honor have been rewarded to those found deserving of greater service to the Empire.   

The Emperor wishes to recognize the families who host these events and to shine light on the events and the samurai who attend them.

There are currently five Tests: Topaz, Ruby, Amethyst, Jade, and Emerald.  Each of these storyline events have become an important part of L5R and have grown to legendary status.  This year each of the Test events will be rewarded their perennial storyline prize, something players can look forward to face for the glory of their clan each year.

The Tests of 2006 continue with the Test of the Ruby Champion.  The Ruby Champion is recognized as one of the most skilled in both sword and law.  The Ruby Champion will be given the honor of acting as a sensei to the Emerald Magistrates, guiding them in both their mastery of martial arts, as well as their interpretation of the Imperial Law.  While this of course means great prestige for the samurai in question, a Clan could benefit greatly from having a new generation of Emerald Magistrates influenced by a member of their Clan.

The Clan that the winner of the 2006 Test of the Ruby Champion plays will determine the
Clan of origin of the new Ruby Champion, and the player will decide if the character will stick
to a strict interpretation of the Imperial Law, or attempt to subtly influence those in his or her
charge.

Should the Shadowlands win, the Champion will be revealed to be a member of the Lost, further dividing the Empire on the question of the Shadowlands demand for Great Clan status. Should the Ratlings win, the Ratling player may choose a Clan other than Shadowlands to produce the Ruby Champion, but he or she will have a Ratling yojimbo.