26 minutes ago, Magnus Grendel said:And I'd imagine every family will be maneuvering for advantage against every other in the clan
Good point. I think internal family strife may happen too. Without going to full clan civil war, a Daidoji major Daimyo may allow two of his vassals to settle a dispute by an authorized war, and courtier may plead their cause to higher crane leadership to allow two Daidoji families who hate each others guts to pursue blood feud.
Back on the dueling topic, I'd say Iaijutsu should be expected, but maybe not granted.
If an honor challenge is thrown, nothing should "force" it to be a Iaijutsu duel. Nothing except court maneuvers that would stress out how dishonourable it would be to break from tradition and refuse to fight in the time honoured Iaijutsu stance, sort of bullying the opposing party in using Iaijutsu. And if Iaijutsu is refused, gossip time! Even if victorious, the non Iaijutsu practitioner might get badmouthed and his victory downplayed in court.
The error would be to think that iaijutsu honor duel is about a skill contest between two honorable warriors. Iaijutsu honor duel is a political tool amongst an arsenal of means to pressure the opponent. And despite the Crane being on top of it, it's a tool also used by other political clans, like phenix and scorpion.
Edited by Nitenman