For a thousand years, the Great Clans have dominated every aspect of Rokugan's politics and culture.

That time has come to an end.

The minor clans have gathered under the banner of Yoritomo, the Mantis Clan Champion, to join the conflict that rips at Rokugan's heart. Inspired by the deeds of the ronin Toturi and fueled by Crane koku, Yoritomo has seized the moment In Rokugan's hour of darkness, he and those who follow him fight, not for the Throne, but for their own chance at greatness.

One of the most exciting aspects of the Yoritomo Alliance is the fact that players of L5R will get their first glance at the minor clans of Rokugan. For almost two years, players have been engaged in the political and tactical struggles of the Great Clans, but now, the minor clans have an opportunity to gain equal status with their elder cousins.

Clans such as the Wasp, Fox and Tortoise can be found in Yoritomo's Alliance, as well as members of the much-demanded Mantis Clan. While they cannot gain the Throne, they can earn the respect of the Great Clans, thus earning themselves positions in the political hierarchy of Rokugan.

Players of L5R are very familiar with the unusual tactics and style of cards from the Mantis Clan. Doji Hoturi has said: "Never before have I met a Clan so intent on protecting their honor and filling their pockets with gold." Having been separated from Rokugan for so many centuries, the Mantis have developed a slightly different version of bushido than is practiced on the mainland.

The Mantis recognize (as well do the Cranes, although they will not admit it) that money is power. To control Rokugan's resources is to control her destiny. Rokugani believe that hoarding money is a sign of cowardice. After all, as Shinsei himself suggests: "If you are reluctant to part with your money, how reluctant will you be to part with your life?" The Alliance deck will allow players to use the Mantis' unique philosophy in an intriguing way. Also, the Personalities in the Alliance deck reflect the unorthodox tactics and fighting styles of the Mantis. The deck's namesake, Yoritomo, is perhaps the most deadly of all the Champions and his Ancestral Weapon truly reflects the Mantis philosophy: "Money is power."

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