Wakizashi

From L5r: Legend of the Five Rings

Where the katana is the symbol of the bushi, the wakizashi is a weapon that symbolizes the samurai as a social class. Every member of the samurai station in entitled to carry a wakizashi, and nearly all do. Wakizashi are generally between 30 and 60 centimeters (one to two feet) in length, and carry a slightly curved blade similar to that of the katana. ([1])

The wakizashi carries an additional role that the katana does not in Rokugani society: it symbolicaly preserves the honor of its bearer. A samurai's last refuge for protest is seppuku, which is performed with the wakizashi, washing the samurai in his own blood and cleansing dishonor from the blade and his soul. Although the katana is held in greater regard by the noble classes, the wakizashi is a constant reminder of a samurai's duties.

Because it is seen as the keeper of the samurai's honor, a wakizashi has heavy ritualistic significance. Whereas the katana will be removed upon entering a home, the wakizashi almost never leaves the side of an adult member of the samurai caste, except during sleep.

Mirumoto swordsmen use the wakizashi in combat with their fighting style called niten.

The wakizashi is the only weapon that may be taken into the presence of the Emperor, in case the Emperor demands the seppuku of its bearer.

[edit] Major References

• Legend of the Five Rings: Third Edition Page 313.