View source for Atoning Scarlet Chrysanthemum

[[Category:Kinlu]][[Category:Martin Dickson]]
[[File:AtoningScarletChrys.png|200px|thumb|right|Atoning Scarlet Chrysanthemum mon]]
Scarlet clad bodyguards of [[Kokhan the Summoner]], Lord of [[Kinlu]].

All members of the Atoning Scarlet Chrysanthemum are believed to be under sentence of death (usually for crimes of considerable violence) but have had the execution of the warrant stayed while Kokhan remains alive and they remain in his service. This makes them rather dedicated and enthusiastic.

The group functions as something like a small clan within House Taijin, although Atoning Scarlet Chrysanthemum guards trace their origins all over Kinlu and come originally from many other Houses. Their birth affiliations are formally repudiated when they accept a role (and often they have already been cut off by their House; ashamed at their deeds).

The exact number of members is unknown but thought to be over 100. Most are male [[Erelheine]] of the Samurai caste, but there are known to be female members, some [[Akinrosi]] / humans, some mages, and even some members formerly from [[Shinobi Skills|Shinobi clans]]. Almost all are weapon masters, and skilled in various fighting techniques.

Their normal dress is a bright blood red ''kimono'' and ''hakama'', with a white ''obi'', and decorated on the back with a large white chrysanthemum flower ''mon''. They may add armour if the situation warrants it (although most are agility fighters), and if working under-cover could be wearing any suitable clothes.

===Captain Akira===
The Captain of the Atoning Scarlet Chrysanthemum is an unassuming looking Erelheine man of mature years. His family name is not known, and although he sometimes goes by the given name ''Akira'', he is more commonly known as the ''Flautist'' -- a reference to his preferred weapon, a ''Shakuhachi'' or Kinlu flute. These days he carries a flute made of jade, a present from [[Jade Dragon|Lord Yo]], and believed to be a potent magical weapon.

His flute is also used for music, a subject about which he appears both knowledgeable and quite touchy, and it is said that the capital crimes of which he was convicted relate to listeners' lack of appreciation of his musical talents.

Note from [[Kit]]: His flute playing has such a distinct, personal style that many people will be horrified. Do not ask to hear his playing unless your musical tastes are ''broad''.