The Advanced Bloodlines and Clans

[ProtoXtreme]

1. The Purpose
2. Overview
3. Historical Context
4. To Add a Clan
5. Active Clans  

[ProtoXtreme]

1. The Purpose

So some may wonder...why exactly is this thread here, taking up space when there's already a Master Bloodlimits Listing around. Well! The point is, the Master Bloodlimits Listing doesn't exactly give the exciting in-detail stuff to clans. You might be curious as to where they live, how well they're doing financially, how they live, dress, maybe even speech patterns and clan credos - the nitty gritty details that are especially helpful introducing the less renowned families who might not have a compound thread of their own. Soooo. This thread's purpose is to advertise the families of Konohagakure no Sato and hopefully aid you in choosing a limit!  

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2. Overview

Geography: Konohagakure no Sato, being set in the heart of Fire Country, is map-wise in the cross-roads between hidden villages. Being placed in a strategic region does have a price: in the forms of the many Secret Shinobi Wars they were forced to attend - simply for the right to remain on the map. For centuries, the strategic location of Fire Country, as well as access to key natural resources, had attracted both enemies and allies from all over the globe. Even today, Konoha's vast geographical diversity still holds the admiration and envy of economic rivals and allies alike.

While the geography of Fire Country is even more vast, Konoha's specific geography is rather strange for a singular village alone, divided into four basic categorizations by the directions: north of the village are swampy/marshy lands (for further north lies the rice fields of Oto) - further to the east Fire Country has access to the seas through the Wave Country (the subsequent route to Water Country/Kiri). South-wise of the village, Konoha has access to the lower mountainous routes: before the rocky passes give way to the desert sands of the Wind Country and Suna. Even further south-east are the gulf countries, and with only minor powers in existence there thus exists another route to the sea. The areas north-west and north-east of the village are mainly tropical rainforest, with further mountainous routes in the west - leading to Earth Country and great Iwa.

Due to the great variation in geography, Konoha has forest, marshland, mountain (thus both highland and lowland) areas. A river cuts through the vast forest, feeding underground reserves through porous rock, also contributing to the formation of splendid underground limestone caves. Natural clay and limestone formations are thus common mineral resources within the area. The forest itself is also a treasure: filled with much exotic wild-life, and rare fungus and vegetation (herbal or poisonous) of all sorts.

Climate: Konoha is located pretty close to the equator and certainly close enough to see the Aurora Australis during the quiet evenings of the Sakura Festival. Thus Konoha has seen all of the seasons except winter - generally enjoying mild to very beautiful weather and relatively cool to mildly warm temperatures. Being nestled in the heart of a rainforest, the nights are generally cooler than the daytime.

Occasionally, there are heavy rains and freak storms, even forest fires resulting from lightning storms (though with the Senju's special Fuu, they managed now to easily contain forest fires as per heavy demand on part of the villagers - however, they warn manual 'forest cleaning' would be needed eventually to prevent the great giants from dying due to too many trees growing per square area) but the diverse geography of Fire Country also made Konoha the center of a host of variating clans. As a tribute to all of their unique abilities, particularly those of the Senju, the people of Konoha are instrumental in reflecting and harnessing the gifts of their great geographical diversity.

Population: Highly populated, and once more at the vanguard military-wise due to present war conditions, Fire Country holds one of the highest military standing in both reputation and standing shinobi army. Though no longer highly aggressive as the present ruling generation is generally more pacifistic, Konoha have been known to have produced and continue to produce some of the finest shinobi in history. This legendary village contributes highly to the wealth, power, and political influence of Fire Country, thus greatly shocking many (though not surprising people as well) that the Fire Damiyo would target Konoha's riches.

The people of Konohagakure no Sato are generally very good natured, most likely due to the peaceful climate and general ambient aura this ancient village gives. It has a great number of elderly, outstripping that of any other shinobi village, most likely due to the advanced medical arts and generally vastly promoted healthy lifestyle here. The people tend to hold a high regard for nature as well, and are often very strongly connected with it, so takes care to practice their Jutsu in more secluded, safely isolated areas. However, despite their general reputation for being more laid-back than any other shinobi village, their military prowess is certainly not something to be trifled with.

As kindly as Konoha's people can be, they can become truly something very terrifying when their peaceful village is disturbed.

Village Size: With its immense population, Konoha cannot hope to accommodate all of its people within traditional estimated boundaries of shinobi villages. They're large enough to even be considered a great metropolitan city: thus the heavy demand for sturdy and affordable housing, high sanitation guidelines, and quality paving to improve transportation (for the thousands of merchants who come to Konoha during any given time of the year) came to be.

The heavy population also makes the elaborate festivals possible and gives a reason for traveling Kabuki cavarans to stop by and perform in this great village. Konoha is also considered one of the most open villages in accepting people, hence an ancient complaint of other villages had been Konohagakure failing to check if they were housing fugitives as well.  

[ProtoXtreme]

3. Historical Context

The contextual history, as presented in Konoha's textbooks, is here. (Yes, your Kage is too lazy to copy+paste the whole thing here. Plus, it takes up space. >_>'')

Konoha was born from two inter-clan alliances: or to be more accurately placed, one inter-clan alliance called 'the Senju Clan of the Forest', while the other was the Uchiha clan and the families they had subjugated. So, among the founding pillars that made up the village, some clans came with the founding Senju family. Then, there were the ones under the founding Uchiha family. They came together and created Konoha village and stabilized the world with the one shinobi village per country system proposal...

But one should remember: no piece of history tells it all. It is the victors whom write history. For those whom had missed the heavy lingering on the Senju legacy in the village textbooks, it was indeed intentional. Clearly, Senju predominance had been reiterated from the very opening lines of the founding story to the legacy of the "Senju Hokages". But it does not tell the shadowy side of history: the uglier face beneath Konoha's peaceful exterior, the ancient battle for power long after Konoha had been founded: the inter-clan struggle for dominance between Senju and Uchiha which had not disappeared shaped and stained the village's history. The blood feud between the founders had contributed to the absolute destruction of Konoha, infrastructure-wise, at least once during the Rokudaime's teenage years.

Konoha thus is and had always been a great chessboard between the two founding families. The indigenous lines whom had been in the village from the start are not spared the role of pawns. Unknowingly, they have become chess pieces: weaving into an endless cycle of hatred and vengeance, not just straining the war between Uchiha and Senju, but also gaining an ugly name outside of Fire Country. Through the wars, different clans had come to be venerated, carving a name for themselves. But outside the box garden of Konoha, they too have gained numerous enemies and have come to be feared. For a village, ever since its infancy, Konoha's story had always been one large war: the war to remain in existence. A strong sense of nationalism was thus necessary - something binding that transcends clan ideals - in order to give Konoha strength.

But in such expansionalistic ideals, Konoha had clearly angered rival countries from time and again. They became famous, not because of sentimentality, but because of their "warrior spirit" - for their "Will of Fire".

Thus, it is important that you should consider your clan's fitting into the jigsaw pieces that makes up Konoha. Were they a founding family, one whom stood at the creation of the village alongside the Senju or under the Uchiha? Perhaps they were a nomadic family, whom may bring healing to the ugly inter-clan struggle for dominance between the founding families. How does and will your clan shape Konoha?

How does your clan define the village, and the "Will of Fire" define them?  

[ProtoXtreme]

4. To Add a Clan

First and most importantly, you clan must be already approved and up in the Master Bloodlimits Listing. Then, use this as a template:

Clan Name: You can choose to attach a "village title" next to it too.
Description: Briefly describe your limit and Jutsu style.
Complete Clan Information: Put the url to your clan in the Master Bloodlimits Listing here.
Historical Context to Konoha: Not asking for your clan history and how your clan/limit developed. Rather, the point is to show the connection of your clan to the village.
Stature: How is your clan defined? There are subcategories such as Sentry / Security or Police, which falls under Military orders. Smithing / Medical Order are also two other well-known divisions. Most clans are generally shinobi-civilian status. General categories also include the Nobility / Military / Shinobi-Civilian / Nomadic families.
Financial/Political: What does your clan do for a living? Are they traditionally part of the Council of Elders? Are they perhaps one of the military families? Do they perhaps grow and sell herbs? Make weapons?
Where Do They Live? Use the Konoha map in the Information Center as reference. From the base outlined monumental areas, you can give direction to where your clan lives. (If you have a compound, you obviously don't have to stress over this part. So yeah.) You can describe where they live like this "next to the Armory" or "10 blocks down from Hyuuga compound", between two locations... Stuff like that. The more specific the better.
Dress Code: Self-explanatory. Does your clan have a formal dress code? For example, families like Hyuuga wear clothing very close to formal yukatas/kimonos. Senju prefers yukata clothing, though they certainly don't wear traditional armor anymore.
Speech Patterns and Etiquette: How do they speak? Do they use highly refined language and honorifics? If so, keep in mind, your clan's speech patterns should reflect their pedigree (social stature). What about etiquette? How do they welcome visitors to their compounds (for the wealthier clans) or to their homes in general? Do they have certain habits before eating and etc. (like perhaps the head of family blessing the food, or a prayer of thanksgiving before meals)?
Language(s): Is Japanese their only language? Are they bilingual or perhaps even trilingual? If so, what are the other languages they customarily learn?
Special: Any other stuff you might want to say about your clan.  

[ProtoXtreme]

5. Active Clans

The Nobility:
Besides the founding families of Konoha, there are also those whom hold significant vitality to the well-being of the village that have joined the indigenous nobility over the eons. Non-founding families whom climb up to the aristocratic rank are few in number though: the ones who do are usually prized either because of their unique kekkai genkai limit or clan arts...or they contribute greatly to some vital trade in the village market (i.e. smithing).

Senju
Sarutobi
Hyuuga
Uchiha
Hatake
Nara
Yamanaka
Inuzuka
Aburame
Akimichi
New Order (Honorary): Takani

The Military Orders:

Sentry:
Not technically a class. This is a sub-classification of Konoha's military forces. Their job includes not only guarding the village gates but also acts as a primary strike force against intruders. Due to the nature of their work, they often aid the black ops forces: either in providing information or working closely with them in capturing intruders.

Senju (Fuu specialists)
Hyuuga (primary recon)
Aburame (secondary recon)
Inuzuka (support, intel collection)
Hatake (primary offense, quick dispatching)
Sarutobi (primary offense, capture)
Nara (works in duos, primary defense/general capture)
Yamanaka (stationary, interrogation or tag-teams with Nara)
Akimichi (stationary, secondary/front line defense)

Security / Police:
Not technically a class. This is a sub-classification under Military Orders, even though only three families really fall under this category. There are two divisions: the private security force and the general police force.

The private security force composes of the Senju and Hyuuga families, with Senju in greater number. Unlike the sentries or black ops, they are a sort of knight order and operates under the direct command of the Hokage. This fierce loyalty stems from distrust of the other members of the Council of Elders and this order's existence had been a tradition since the betrayal of the Elder Danzo, during Rokudaime's time. The security force takes care of greatly varied tasks such as strengthening village seals and protecting classified information. They operate at times alongside the black ops and sentries, but generally they keep their work separate.

The police force under the Uchiha family aids in enforcing law and order within the village itself. Their role is vital in keeping village peace and apprehending delinquents who aim to shatter that peace: their work is mainly with the villagers themselves while the work of the sentry and private security force is primarily aimed at foreign intruders and untangling conspiracies in the upper echelons.

Senju (knight order, direct allegiance of loyalty to the Hokage)
Hyuuga (primarily serves as healers in the Security order)
Uchiha (police force)

Medical Order:
Traditionally dominated by the Senju family though over time other clans too joined the Medical Order: the Order of Doctors. They are primarily in charge of running the village hospital, monitoring the prospering herb trade, and in general charge of assigning medic members to squads whom needs them on missions. Their duties include not only merely healing and disinfecting physical wounds but also tending to the treatment of damaged mentality, as well as training future medics to inherit the Esei arts. The Ryouri shinobi-civilian family are the most recent to join the medic order.

Senju
Hyuuga
Takani
Soma

Shinobi-Civilian:
The general shinobi families of Konoha. Their talents are greatly varied.

Hatsuchi

Nomadic:
Self-explanatory.

Currently none.  

[ProtoXtreme]

Databook

Page One:

Senju Clan - Mokouton Creation limit "The Jewel of Konoha"
Hyuuga Clan - Byakugan limit "The White Lotus of Konoha"
Takani Clan - Hosts to demon flowers
Hatake Clan - Jutsu Engineers "The White Fang of Konoha"

Page Two:

Inuzuka Clan - Combo Techniques
Yamanaka Clan - Mind-manipulating Hijutsu
Sarutobi Clan - Source of the "Will of Fire"
Soma Clan - Cellular Manipulation limit  

[ProtoXtreme]

Clan Name: Senju (千樹) "A Thousand Trees"
Description: Senju, though traditionally hailed as an "elemental creation" family, actually isn't appropriately defined by the few whom inherits their Mokouton Creation kekkai genkai. If there was to be a defining factor for this legendary clan, those whom have long studied this family concludes that what was special (or rather what could be called their bloodlimit) was in fact not Mokouton, but the Senju's unique ability to manipulate life energies. Thus this, incorporated by the few whom inherited the Mokouton Creation trait, had even allowed Senju the capability to do something that other elemental creation clans cannot: the ability to truly create and to give birth to life.

This clan was not called "Thousand Armed" Senju without a reason. As many as the branches of the great trees of Konoha, unlike other clans, Senju was not defined by any singular particular field or any unanimous kekkai genkai. Inheritance of active Mokouton Creation was rare. Excessively rare. So instead they developed vicious strides in the usage of arms and most famously, brute hand-to-hand strength: their "Herculean style" Taijutsu school. They were famed Fuu masters, Ninjutsu wielders, Genjutsu experts, and legendary pioneers of the Esei arts. For indeed, the first and still greatest of the shinobi doctors were of Senju origin. The clan believed strongly in medicine, they believed strongly in teaching, and became time-renowned teachers and dedicated doctors.

Furthermore, Senju created a vastly rich arsenal of techniques that later became the village's legacy (both famous and infamous), such as the Kinjutsu that had later become commonly attributed to the snake Sannin Orochimaru, the Edo Tensei technique. The first two Lords of Konohagakure no Sato, the Senju brothers, created the Kage's Scroll of Sealing, which to this day is whispered to hold an incredible wealth of knowledge in Hijutsu techniques. Senju had a great respect for knowledge and even more for those whom actively desire and seek it.

What remarkably tied the clan together therefore became their Fuuin and the study of arts that manipulated the very fabric of time and space. As those closest to nature, the Senju were rumored to be the first of shinobi to contract with servants of nature in the form of summoning contracts and as attributed to their portion of inheritance from Rikudo's legacy, developed the Sage Arts that was later to become Konohagakure's birthright. They learned to tame the bijuus with Fuu shared with their Seal Master cousins, the Uzumakis of the Whirlpool, long before Mokouton ever even was considered as a method for bijuu taming.
Complete Clan Information: "The Jewel of Konoha"
Historical Context to Konoha: Senju, alongside the Uchiha clan, were one of the two primary founding families of the village. They dominated the early era of Hokages, but according to the vague recordings of early history, vanished with the closing of the warring age. Their disappearance in many ways contributed to the legend, but, in the course had created an idealistic iconic image of Senju that was actually quite different from the truth. Senju was not "totally good" - likewise, nor were the Uchiha "totally evil". Senju honored the knowledge seekers, be that for the better or the worse. In this aspect thus, Senju was human, and despite being brilliant Jutsu engineers, they had also committed the taboo by creating terribly cruel and inhuman techniques, as the existence of the Edo Tensei (the ultimate taboo of disturbing the dead) bears witness to. Simply, Senju was a clan who desired and appreciated knowledge just as much as they loved to teach and share.

Such ambitions, their true nature, was needless to say dangerous, and, without the guiding ways of the older generation (taken by the warring age), it was assumed the original Senju clan quickly fell apart after having made too many enemies. What happened to them, no one was certain, only knew that by the mid-reign of the Sandaime, the Senju house was empty of people. Konohagakurians whisper that much of the clan had married into the village and deserted the name, tired of the dark ambitions of those whom called themselves family, and weary of the ancient bindings that trapped them in a struggle with the Uchiha clan. By the time of the Rokudaime, the only known user of Mokouton Creation was not even a Senju but a victim of Orochimaru's lab experiments.

The end of the Bronze Age of Konoha came also with the disastrous suggestion to bring back the Senju clan. It all began when one unwitting person displayed active Mokouton Creation inheritance. An unhappy event, this lost generation Senju was treated little better than a lab experiment, swiftly quarantined by a village excited by the prospect of restoring a founding lineage. They kept close observance on this Senju, his family and all his relatives and his descendants, intent on breeding back the lineage. Several angry verbal battles with the village High Council had erupted during this time; the young shinobi hardly wanted the title of "Senju" but rather for the Council to leave him and his parents alone. Had not his love for the village been greater, it is to be expected the present Senju clan (restored to completion seven hundred years later, about a century prior to the present time) would certainly not exist.

Not only on this singular particular civilian family, over time, Konoha kept vigilant watch for any others displaying a long lost recessive limit's powers. Even the smallest of indications was taken to be the surest of signs: a shinobi without a lineage with uncommonly excellent Eseijutsu, those coming from families whom held lost documents with thought to be lost medicinal knowledge... By the start of the dark ages, this mission bordered on fanatical paranoia, many believing Senju to be the only power capable of restoring Konoha's fragile political balance. It was during the mid-dark ages, when the Senju population once again took a hit, that the Council dared even condone once more the manipulation of genes in order to create faux Senjus with the ability to control Mokouton. Thankfully, with the advancement of science over the years, the fatality toll of fetuses was not as high.

These Senjus of lab birth and their descendants were closely kept track of. Insulted that people are being treated as lifestock, family or not, the mainline Senju whom were so painstakingly collected over the centuries violently rebelled. At last, it was settled that the Council would continue to keep tabs, but only for the sake of keeping the royal family pure. The main family can do what they wish: marry as they will and continue the line as long as it does not involve the thinning of the bloodline by mixing with other kekkai genkais. Thus to this day, the only direct descendants of the resurfaced Senju remains the head family - to whom the Senjus consider the "royal family" among the royal family of Konoha (or Senjus within the Senju).

Stature: Many suffered. The title of "royal family" was merely a disguise, an excuse, to more readily chain those marked Senju to the village. It is said that even now, with the Senju clan restored, there are those not as ready to forgive Konoha and may possibly hold as deep a hatred for Konoha as their love. They still assume their traditional position in the Medical Order, as well as working as part of the Military Order: the Sentry and Security divisions.
Financial/Political: Vicious as politicians, Senju dominates the workings of the present High Council, perhaps partly out of vengeance as to what had been done to them during the years of the restoration. It is said that Senju drove many families out of the political arena, clever as they are and manipulative with their resources. Contrary to popular belief, Senjus for the most part do not ill handle money.

As one of the military families, the quality of their work is second to none, rivaled by perhaps only the Uchiha. The Senju living more modestly work in the real estate business, particularly in construction and the divvying of the land. Their tasks are greatly varied, also serving as traditionally favored judges, particularly in shinobi-civilian squabbles (as they hold the non-shinobi people of Konoha's favor and high respect). Surprisingly to some, Senju also works as gardeners, though not for others, and this single clan controls the vast herbal and rare poison market of Hi no Kuni.

As per their great respect for the land, Senju greatly contempt blind destruction. Contrary to popular belief, once they lay ruins to the land, they always make sure to restore it given the earliest possible chance. Some believe it is a joke, the "environmentalist" side of the Senju royal family, but, it is by far from any joke. They'll be likely first on the scene to haul off disrespectful visiting foreigners for damaging Konoha's land.
Where Do They Live? The Senju estate is one of the largest and most beautiful compound complexes of Konoha. (It is actually NOT the by far largest - that is the Uchiha Town - because Senju insisted on their compound southern border being the Hokage mountain.) Interestingly enough, they wanted the raised elevation in land to reach their estate gates probably because this also makes the site much easier to defend their castle from invasion. This latter aspect might be questionable, though, as a particular Senju (whom shall remain unnamed) had found it good sport to teach Academy Students how to successfully rob the estate during the course of their Genin Exams (the children whom the Head of Family himself had also unwittingly aided).
Dress Code: Senju do not have a standard shinobi uniform like the Uchihas. Shinobi garb is pretty much as the clansmen prefer it, though by request the clan insignia may be custom incorporated into clothing. Interestingly enough, most do indeed prefer discretion: they wear the common Jounin vests not only just to show their strong connection to the village, but pretty much, the village is their real inheritance and dearest pride. It's also a mute sign that they are villagers, like any other. The Sennins of this clan tend to prefer the similar light yukata-like outfits of the Hyuuga, though traditionally will don modified incorporations of armor as well. When it comes to formal occasions, the Senju do know how to behave, as fiery-tempered they usually are. They know how to dress nicely if the occasion demands it.

**note: It is crucial to refer to the Clan Estate for information regarding to clan division. This is because Senju's structure is heavily ingrained in their way of life.

Their Way of Life

Greeting Procedures
Senju never bows. Ever. Instead respect is reflected by who speaks first in terms of address. To outsiders, a member of the Senju clan would never address them first, unless severely outclassed (such as usually in the case of addressing a Sennin or Kage, or a diplomatic envoy).

Within the clan itself, a lower-ranked Senju would always greet the higher-ranked Senju first. This generally goes by a) rank in the clan by division order (with Clan Council members ranking highest, followed then by the different mastery divisions of the clan) succeeded by b) which division of the family branch you are from. It actually is quite fair a method as it then offers those whom wish to be recognized to actually earn their position. However, though not necessary, the family preferred to honor the tradition of elevating the Head Family before the Clan Council, despite in truth the royal family's position not even necessarily being recognized in the set-in-stone status quo.

Address
Leaving "clan speech" as a different subject, general address is pretty casual. Surprisingly casual, in fact, for a royal family. They call their parents "chichi-ue" and "haha", not necessarily constrained to the Uchiha children's maintained manners of calling their parents the formal "otou" or "okaa"-sama. Beyond observing greeting order, Senju observe proper "standard" etiquette. They thank people all the same when receiving something or a favor, and when requesting, addresses as per necessary. In fact, despite to the distaste of some older Senjus, some of the younger generation of Senjus have even taken to adopting slang.

Etiquette
Senju is a family of contradictions. Despite being quite casual in terms of socializing standards, their etiquette and general manners are surprisingly refined. Before entering a home, or any house of residence, the Senju always removes their shoes. Removing shoes is a sign of respect to living quarters, as to dirty a house with traveling shoes is considered the ultimate offense to a host. In the buildings of their own compound, Senju is even noted to wear a different set of sandals. It is by no strange manners to see many pairs of slippers or sandals set in a rack in the interior lobby of a Senju building within their estate. They adherently honor this even by far more strongly than the Hyuugas, whom allocated this strict rule really only specially to their clan dojo. When visiting the homes of others, they always remove their shoes first.

Entering
All Senju clansmen, before entering the complex or any home in general, would at the gates (or door) place the index and middle fingers of their right hand upon their lower lip for six precise seconds. This tradition interestingly enough is mirrored by the nomadic Takani clan: a "kiss" of honor to the land, though the Senjus do it by far more discreetly. When visiting shrines or holy sites, all weaponry are maintained on a strict basis to be kept out of sight - not a problem as Senju as a Fuuin family for the most part keeps their arms sealed. Weapons with any traces of blood brought before a shrine is considered defiling it.

Welcoming a Visitor
Here's where an interesting factor comes in. It's only during the time from the summer solstice to the early Fall, but, at that time Senju honors a tradition of washing the guest's feet. Curiously enough, this is not even attended to solely by the cadet branch servants. No matter their clan rank, be it head family, main, or cadet branch, all partakes in this ancient custom of welcome. It is a strangely humbling welcome for this proud family. They do not see it as a mark of shame, however.

In the event of a formal visit of a important member of say another village or clan, the Senju would drape the estate from their usually demure Japanese colors with the colors of the visiting esteemed guest. For example, if the Fubuki of Kiri were to visit, Senju would add décor of the same shade of pale purple and blue as the Fubuki crest. If the clan has a symbolic flower, the Senju would also furthermore decorate the isles of their halls with many species of the same type of flowers.

If a clan has a certain traditional dish that they are able to successfully reproduce without blowing up their estate, then, that will be attended to as well. In summation, Senju has a reputation as legendary hosts, known to prioritize great banquets in honor of guests (that seemed to be greatly reminiscent of the Roman way), and to make the guest's stay as comfortable possible. They would NEVER allot cadet branch quarters to guests at any given circumstance, not if it can be helped, unless the estate is overcrowded with guests (which never has happened, given how spacious it is) and would do something Hyuuga would never be ok with. It is daresay perhaps only the head family would be spared in such an event, as other main family members would most likely be even asked to vacate their own quarters in favor of a guest.

Mealtimes
In the dining hall, unlike many other families, it is not by status quo on where you sit. It is by who remembers to get there first: Senju honors the "first come first served" basis.

Before eating, it is a tradition to pray to Senju Kannon first, most often a blessing for the clan, or a prayer for strength. Then they prayer to Amaterasu, the goddess, and then to the deity of the Harvest, as part of their prayers of Thanksgiving for the food and the goodness of the mother earth to their family. It is common to hold hands (in a ring around the long tables of their dining halls) and interestingly enough, depending on where Senjus had been able to obtain seats in the dining hall, that means they mingle often with those of lower or higher statuses in the clan, getting to interact with them and to know them better. They haven't come to abhor this factor, and in fact, welcomes it openly.

Meals are always served with chopsticks. As Senju eat traditional eastern cuisine, they do not have a problem, nor needing a mass demand for forks and knives. Traditionally, they start with tea and appetizers, which the head of family would take a sip of tea first, hence indicating the commencement of the meal. The guests would begin to eat second, and clansmen last.

Clan Speech
Clan speech is a curious form that is also called "the language of vows". It is an ancient tradition that was said to be kept alive from beyond Hashirama's time, though the present Senju clan mostly relearned it from the Hyuugas and adopted certain speech patterns that are upheld by the Uchihas. But those three clans are not the only ones whom uphold the memory of "clan speech" - so does a few other aristocratic class founding clans. Clan speech is highly formal, and it is in this case where all appropriate traditional honorifics and formal aristocratic deference are upheld.

The importance of clan speech, however, is not that it is an aristocratic practice. It is pretty much an ancient Konohagakurian form of "swearing". It is unknown when most of the clans who still practice clan speech adopted it (save Uchiha), but it became common to swear "by Senju Kannon" or "by Amaterasu, the Sun" (though the latter is more common to the Uchiha clan). Also common is to swear by "their blood lineage". The people of Konoha whom practice clan speech never swear by the moon: to swear by something that waxes and wanes with time is considered the mark of a dishonest person.

Clan speech is curious, also, because one phrase can hold a thousand meanings. It is all based on interpretation, and naturally, one has to think more when engaging in clan speech. One way of initializing clan speech is by this manner.

"I, ______ of the ______ clan, ______ of Konoha (title), ______, ______, ______ (three adjectives) do hereby uphold that what I am to attest is spoken free of ill mind, ill intent, and ill will of spirit..."

(i.e.)

I, Zephyr of the Senju clan, White Tiger of Konoha, dedicated mentor, inheritor of the Will of Fire, honored servant by Kannon's grace do hereby uphold that what I am to attest is spoken free of ill mind, ill intent, and ill will of spirit...

Taking Offense
Here's where we get to a tricky part. It is very rare when Senju takes offense. Guests can even choose to observe Senju customs or not when visiting. But clans whom honor the "clan speech" to this day are extremely terrifying when angered. No, seriously. They'll go after your mother, your father, every last living person who holds a drop of blood connection to you, and then all your friends and (to finish the task) even friends of friends. To place it in simple terms, high aristocratic clans can get quite touchy-feely about certain matters. Just don't start a blood feud with them. They won't settle just for victory but utter obliteration (or in Senju's case, slightly better - or worse - than Uchiha. Utter humiliation).

Censure
The punishment system (ironically) remains quite simple and straightforward. You do something wrong, you are punished. It doesn't matter your rank in the clan. Since Senju believes a lot in pride, punishments often involve the worst of menial tasks that injure pride. One particularly infamous one was sentencing to clean the estate toilets for a certain period of time. Another was working at the village dumps. Other punishments involve whipping at the post, having to plunge hands into boiling water or fire... Lopping off a "disbehaving" limb is not uncommon either. Some punishments are more curious, such as retrieving rare or lost items.

But because the Senju clan highly respects life, they usually do not take life - at least not directly. Those sentenced to execution (usually in the extremely rare case of a criminal, which hadn't happened in the years since Senju first began to be restored) are traditionally poisoned (with the prisoner at least spared the knowledge and presented with a fairly grand last meal). Even more contradictions are in how they treat prisoners, both clansmen or outsiders. They are always made sure to receive adequate room, adequate food and water. However, Senju is just as capable of psychological manipulation as any Uchiha. And they don't need Genjutsu to do it. They'll lock prisoners up separately. Solitary confinement, in a room where the prisoners are barely able to stand, and those Fuuin-enforced walls makes sure one doesn't hear even a pindrop to add the torture of utter silence. Rooms of the dungeons are also specifically whitewashed, without any other piece of furniture than a cot.

And slowly, people do start to go mad.

Language(s): Japanese is their primary language, as it is the language of Konoha. They traditionally learn Chinese and Hindi as well, the ancestor Senju's original native tongue.
Special: It was attributed to their special ability to manipulate life energies but oddly enough, Sejnu is extremely short-lived as a clan. Usually by the age of 30, most Senjus have to retire, and the age of their prime is younger than most shinobi. Instead of it being mid twenties, for Senju, the age of their prime is around 16 - 19 years of age. Beyond the age of 35, there have been no known instance of a Senju whom continued to work as a shinobi - thus the Hokage Senju Zephyr was a most curious exception.  

[ProtoXtreme]

Clan Name: Hyuuga (日向) "Towards the Sun"
Description: Byakugan "White Eyes, Evil Eyes". Hyuuga Ichizoku (lit. Hyuuga family) is one of the "Three Great Doujutsu" lineages, the other two being Uchiha Ichizoku's Sharingan (Mirror Wheel Eye) and Rikudo Sennin's Rinnegan (Transmigration Eye). As the latter have not existed in eight centuries since Rokudaime's youth, Hyuuga remains the only other major Doujutsu clan besides the Uchiha.

Unlike the Uchiha clan, Hyuuga Ichizoku have come to rely completely on their Doujutsu for the form of their unique school of techniques. They are, notably, the only known Doujutsu family whom had successfully incorporated Taijutsu with the usage of their particular form of kekkai genkai. With their Jyuuken Kempo school, Hyuuga clan targets the tenketsu nodes that only their eyes can see to successfully cut off the opponent's chakra and simultaneously cripple the body systems.

The present head of family's great-grandfather was first to introduce the aspect that Hyuuga might be able to potentially heal just as well as they were able to destroy. After all, they were gifted with the capability to know the human body better than any other shinobi of the world. And so, Hyuuga's journey to the Esei arts began, a legacy which continues to this day in the hands of the Lady of the family, Yokou.
Complete Clan Information: "The Moon Lotus of Konoha"
Historical Context to Konoha: As the last family to join the Senju alliance, it was surprising to many at the time that Hyuuga was given "Founder" status alongside those whom stood with the Senju since the beginning. It was clear to Hashirama's family, however, why the to-be Shodaime would so actively desire the cooperation of the Hyuuga. And even later, over time, despite some notably famous conflicts of their own clan culture with the traditions of the village (a conflict that was not to be resolved until the Rokudaime's reign due to the issue of Shodaime's original promise to leave the Hyuuga be in all matters of internal affairs), this clan had served the village most admirably.

They are among the first to defend the village in hard times of war, first to repel invaders, and among the first to celebrate with the village in times of joy... As fierce warriors as they are noblemen, the Hyuuga takes a lot of pride in Konoha and cherishes their home as much as the Senju do. Those whom threatens Konoha would never be forgiven, but those whom show respect to Konohagakure would be respected in turn.
Stature: One of the oldest noble families of Konoha. Pre-Hashirama's time, Hyuuga was one of the wealthiest clans in the area, and to this day, this remains true. They also serve as part of the Military orders, traditionally defending the village as sentries or directly serving the Hokage. As their philosophy is rather black and white, they refused to serve High Council members, thus traditionally earning Hyuuga a straightway long list of enemies. But this also contributes to the fact that Hyuuga had famously never been involved in any plotted coupes. When they serve a Lord or Lady of Konoha, they serve that Kage until that Kage's death. Unless it's in the case of an usurper (such as it was with the Fire Master), that they bluntly refused. It's certainly admirable, this chivalrous knightly coda of behavior that lasted through so much harsh and good times both.
Financial/Political: They are traditionally part of the Council of Elders, but ironically, their money doesn't come from serving high ranks in the village nor does it come from the menial payments due to military families. Since Konoha is of the philosophy to raise defenders whom protects the village because they truly want to, it was by an order since the Nanadaime's time to not pay the military orders extraordinarily. This too, supposedly, discourages the chance of sentries being bribed to aid in mercenary work, since they are used to not possessing that amount of money in the first place.

Hyuuga earns most of the money from their work in the Medical order and, curiously, smithing. That was actually the Senju clan's fault, as the Senju abandoned that aspect of work to the flabbergasted Hyuuga's hands about a decade prior when Lord Zephyr kindly took leave of Konoha without a single notice. Yet interestingly enough, quite the perfectionists as ever, the Hyuuga placed the talents of their bloodlimit to good use and created incredible weaponry that outstrips older models by far in the ability to handle chakra yet also not losing any durability all the while. The clan works in a number of odd jobs around the village, sometimes teaching at the local village Academy. It is said further monies was paid because the Hyuuga are also very good with managing the village's resources, thus being responsible a lot for calculating and predicting the flow of the market and general management of the economy.
Where Do They Live? The Hyuuga estate is located near the eastern border of Konoha. This position was actually the position of their original ancestral home. Curiously enough, it seemed Hashirama had actually instructed the other founding clans to move and settle near and around the Hyuuga, thereby constructing Konoha village when merging with the territory Senju originally earned by the terms of a bet with the local priestesses. The east is symbolic of the rising of the sun, and appropriately attributed to this clan's name "towards the sun".
Dress Code: While Hyuuga does not possess a formal uniform, their clansmen seem to hold a preference for articles of clothing with rather demure colors. They also wear (as remarked on by others) seemingly more than necessary, though this factor fellow villagers had long attributed to the Hyuuga clan's famous self-modesty. Or at least, as far as modesty goes in terms of dressing. By the time a Hyuuga clansman reaches Jounin rank, it is very rare to see him or her in the standard shinobi vest. After that, then, they really wear the more standard traditional garb, usually modified forms of yukata or similar robe-like clothing as shinobi outfits. The "loose fitting" robes supposedly echoes the true nature of their Jyuuken Kempo school: a Taijutsu art of not brute strength but flowing movement that targets the always flowing chakra pathways of the universe (made flesh in mankind).

Their Way of Life

Greeting Procedures
Unlike the Senjus, the Hyuuga do offer a slight nod as a way of recognizing a shinobi of a lower rank. But similarly, they would not speak first in that case. The shinobi of lower rank would customarily greet first. If, in the case of addressing one of higher rank, a full half-bow would be honored, before beginning then the terms of standard address. In the case of clansmen, ranking is done accordingly to the branch of the family you are from, with the exception of the clan council, which is assumed to be seconded only by the head family.

Address
Hyuuga maintain the basis of strict formality, making it very hard for outsiders to befriend one of their ranks. They pay all the appropriate respects to those of higher rank, and even the slightest difference in honorifics indicate status. Their own families are no exception. Children are raised strictly, and always accustomed since their earliest years to use the "correct" term when addressing their parents: the formal "otou" or "okaa"-san.

Besides observing honorifics, how one phrases their language is also deemed highly important. One is considered ill-learned if he or she is not able to speak appropriately, and such a comment is considered one of insult: that the parents have failed in teaching their child as expected. Because of how strictly they observe the consequences of social life, Hyuugas ironically ended up having rarely much of a social life at all. Most villagers hated to communicate with them simply because of the lack of communication. One word from a Hyuuga could be a highly eloquently phrased insult, and Konohagakurians did not appreciate being insulted without their consent.

Most of Konoha is of the opinion that Hyuuga is the epitome of aristocratic snobbishness. Only the few clans whom are accustomed to working with them (Senju being one) knows first-hand the truth that the rest of the village only learns from history books. You can get no more loyal a colleague than a Hyuuga. Particularly because they value honor so highly, a Hyuuga would never backstab a superior or an admirer of a lower rank. That is the difference that remarkably offsets this ancient family from the rest of the village. You may hold their trust and be confident of having it - or at least until something drastic was committed. Then...one would pay for betraying that trust. Dearly.

Etiquette
Children are taught the finest of table manners, but not only that, also the manners with which they are to treat people. Members of the Hyuuga family tend to be exceptionally skilled in emphatically understanding others. Senju Zephyr had once jokingly commented of "the Twelve Meanings of Silence". As far as Yokou disagreed with her Sensei, that point might be up for contention, as Hyuuga do seem exceptionally talented (similarly to the Uchiha) in conveying and understanding silence. This was attributed due to their particular form of kekkai genkai, but Senju disagrees and remarks it is more Hyuuga's ability to intake and notice the smallest of detail, so often passed off by others as insignificant. It is a roundabout kindness they Hyuuga displays to others, however, being of the philosophy that to gain true strength, one must be able to pick themselves up after a fall on their own. The sun is merely a "guide" - and that philosophy the Hyuuga honors.

Otherwise as observed, they uphold the best of formal etiquette in both terms of formal dress when appropriate and how they behave during meals. Posture is extremely important. Unlike the lackadaisically nonchalant Senjus, a Hyuuga aptly characterizes their rank of aristocracy in that they are never caught slouching. When the head of family was asked this recently, Yokou ambivalently commented that if the rest of Konoha would only follow such an example, perhaps the number of cases the hospital receives in terms of senior sclerosis would be by far less severe in number. Zephyr cheerfully maintains that she is right, and actually, there is a point when slouching starts to hurt instead of being comfortable, only then, it is rather a little too late.

Entering
Before entering the homes of others or the direct living space of their own estate (bedrooms), members of Hyuuga would always notably switch their shoes for a pair of slippers or interior sandals. Generally else-wise in their estate, it is fine to remain in their normal shoes, except the dojo, where not even interior shoe-wear is allowed. Unlike the Senju clan's more lax dojo rules, being caught entering the Hyuuga dojo with shoes on is a sign of disrespect - an open sign of challenge - for which unwary visitors might be Jyuuekn Kempoed for.

Before entering buildings, members of the Hyuuga clan are most noted to fold their hands before them. (Not lifted up, just normally.) This is a sign of courtesy, to show that no weapons are being wielded as a blatant sign of disrespect. If they are wearing long sleeves, the sleeves would be drawn up a bit. Furthermore, Hyuugas are of the severe opinion that weapons are never to be brought to sacred areas or shrine spaces. Traditionally, they disarm before a sacred space, leaving their holsters and pouches outside, or otherwise keeping it sealed in scrolls. Fortunately, as Hyuuga rarely tends to use projectiles or weaponry in the first place, this for the most part is not a problem.

Furthermore, if arms are stained from battle, they must be cleaned within at least a 50 meter radius from the Hyuuga estate. It is absolutely forbidden to bring such disgracefully soiled tools upon cleansed grounds. Pretty much, the Hyuuga complex itself can be somewhat considered a holy site on its own. To spill blood on the grounds of the estate or bring objects tainted by spilled blood is also considered one of the highest of insults.

Welcoming a Visitor
The Hyuuga estate usually don't get visitors, so this clan hadn't really developed as strict a guest coda as Senju did. Basically, they do what hosts are expected to do. They'll provide guests with the best of foods that can be offered, give the guests the best choice of board, and provide the guest with the best of services...but they wouldn't go exactly out of their way to do so.

Mealtimes
Due to how the Hyuuga dining hall is arranged, guests usually sit with members of the head family, but never with the clan leader, unless the guest is of substantial rank (i.e. an extremely important guest, like a visiting Kage, Sennin). Otherwise, seating arrangement is done by clan branch, so there really isn't much opportunity to socialize with those of a higher or lower rank. Traditionally, after the head of family tests the food, the guests are invited to eat first, then the head family begins eating, followed by the main family, and finally the cadet branch.

Meals are always served with oriental utensils. Hyuuga rarely tries the strange western-types of foods. They do have a certain fondness for the seafood dishes of Kiri, however, so tableware also includes knives and forks.

Clan Speech
Clan speech is a curious form that is also called "the language of vows". It is an ancient tradition that was said to be kept alive from Hashirama's time. The Uchiha, along with the Senju, are also practitioners though these three clans (along with the Hyuuga) are not the only ones whom uphold the memory of "clan speech" - so does a few other aristocratic class founding clans. Clan speech is highly formal, and it is in this case where all appropriate traditional honorifics and formal aristocratic deference are upheld.

The importance of clan speech, however, is not that it is an aristocratic practice. It is pretty much an ancient Konohagakurian form of "swearing". It is unknown when most of the clans who still practice clan speech adopted it (save Uchiha), but it became common to swear "by Senju Kannon" or "by Amaterasu, the Sun" (though the latter is more common to the Uchiha clan). Also common is to swear by "their blood lineage". The people of Konoha whom practice clan speech never swear by the moon: to swear by something that waxes and wanes with time is considered the mark of a dishonest person.

Clan speech is curious, also, because one phrase can hold a thousand meanings. It is all based on interpretation, and naturally, one has to think more when engaging in clan speech. One way of receiving clan speech (for how to begin, refer to Senju's section above) by this manner.

"I, ______ of the ______'s line ,______ of Konoha (title), ______, ______, ______ (three adjectives) do hereby accept that what my tongue shall profess is spoken free of ill mind, ill intent, and ill will of spirit..."

(i.e.)

I, Yokou of Hyuuga's blood, honored Sennin of Konoha, dedicated healer, daughter to the Will of Fire, humble servant of Konoha do hereby accept that what my tongue shall profess is spoken free of ill mind, ill intent, and ill will of spirit...

Taking Offense
Senju Zephyr had most famously wrote of Hyuuga as something akin to a sleeping bear: most friendly until deeply angered, where they would proceed with the swiftest hand to tear out your very entrails. He was very right, you see, even if his student and present head of Hyuuga family, Yokou, certainly did not appreciate his comment.

Generally, Hyuuga clan is very indeed hard to anger, like a "sleeping bear". You can poke the said bear until a certain extent, but when the omnivore is unusually angered, it would launch into carnivorous mode - wide awake. Hyuugas are not usually out for blood, however. They are rather of the pacifistic philosophy to never land the first strike. Even in battle they usually politely offer the opponent the opportunity of surrendering first. Anyways, the things to anger a Hyuuga are few in number, and probably, best left unnamed. It was rumored one of these things happened to be their well-kept hair. (It was also rumored a certain Uchiha and a certain Nara had also in their youth came very close to death after an ill-placed joke on their Hyuuga teammate. When they complained to their teacher, Zephyr simply said it was their own fault for attempting to singe off Yokou's hair, claiming it was long enough to afford to lose a portion anyways.)

Else-wise, it was assumed that the easiest way to insult Hyuuga was either by a) insulting the village or b) insulting their direct family. Interesting enough, insulting their clan was noted to have little to no effect.

Censure
Punishment in this clan is legendary. And not in the good way. Hyuuga, being strict observers of the law, will not turn a blind eye irregardless of who you are. A clan leader, by clan law, is even bound to punish the heir if necessary. And the punishments are far from pretty. Jyuuken Kempo Ryuu was noted to be the original and cruelest method of internal torture. Though no one else would see even bruises, who said anything about internal bleeding? And for fugitives whom are captured and hauled back (the rare case of Hyuuga nuke-nins), their chakra system is entirely obliterated, ruining thus any chance of returning to a shinobi career for crippling accompanies the permanent destruction of the chakra system.

In short, when the Hyuuga are seriously angry, they are rather very much unkind. With swift verdict, comes equally swift honoring of the terms of judgement.

Language(s): There isn't a choice about learning Japanese - it is the language of Konoha. Thus so, Hyuuga does not consider this as part of their considerable language arsenal. Highly valuing scholarship, Hyuuga children have to learn in addition to their original native language (Chinese) the customary language of the Senjus (Hindi), and Latin.
Special: Hyuuga Ichizoku is customarily divided into two branches: Souke (the main family) and Bunke (the cadet family). At the top of clan authority, immediately after the head of family, sits the Clan Council, composed of the most respected members from both the souke and the bunke.

The Hyuuga have kept the traditional two divisions of the clan, but further separated the head family (of the clan leader and his or her direct family) from the main family. This way, the cruel practice in the case of twins born to the wife of the head of family does not have to be honored (as the second twin can just be moved to the main family). They have also made a revision to their laws that allow for the possibility of the second twin to inherit the position of heir in the case that the older twin passed on early.

The members of the cadet family are traditionally marked with a Juin Jutsu, the Cursed Seal of the Caged Bird. However, when Rokudaime became Hokage, he remembered to keep his promise to change Hyuuga and promptly fired into a series of vicious court battles with the clan. When finally it was determined before a grand jury composing of all of the leaders of the major families of Konoha that the Cursed Seal method was inhumane, as it allows the Souke of Hyuuga to kill or torture Bunke members as they pleased, citing that despite clan methods of punishment, it was concluded that the ultimate power to censure citizens belong to the village. Senju Hashirama's original pact with Hyuuga no longer applies, because at the time the village of Konoha was not nation-state. Rokudaime and Hyuuga reached a compromise: the Fuu would no longer be branded upon children but the village still has no say over corporal punishments as long as they do not become crippling.

Since then, the Bunke had remained seal-free. Unsurprisingly, this also smoothed relationships between the Souke and Bunke, and the cadet members of Hyuuga became even more loyal to both clan and village. Thanks to the Rokudaime, the old anger and hatred became tamable.

The Juin Jutsu's secret is kept alive and is only used as one of the three extremist methods of punishment - when a Hyuuga has committed something truly unforgivable, such as betrayal of the village, the village elders will grant permission for the clan to use the Juin Jutsu if it is Hyuuga whom captures their own missing-nin.