Taikomochi

Taikomochi are male entertainers who work in a capacity of pleasant, enlightened companionship similar to that of geisha.

Etymology
Taikomochi, literally translated, means 'drum bearer'. It is probable that this may be the original representation of these men within their chosen profession, and History does reflect times when taikomochi would travel forth with their employers to play drums.

While the very literal translation is that of drum playing entertainer, the much more broad definition of the trade encompasses another term, hōkan, or 'fool'. While the point where these terms became interchangeable is not clearly delineated, the gradual shift in trade craft is quite clear.

History
In the very early days of the Oseuda Empire, taikomochi would play drums for coin and hōkan would dance and entertain in a 'sacred fool' or jester capacity and plied their trade of prat-falls and physical comedy interspersed with both formal and interpretive dance. As the passage of time blurred the borders between one profession and the other, it became tradition that one individual would act in both roles.

As the maturation of the trade settled in, certain privileges and responsibilities became attached to the title of taikomochi.
 * A taikomochi, acting in-character, was allowed to speak their mind without fear of reprisal or dishonor;
 * A taikomochi was not expected to endure the rigors of combat, though their presence on the fields of battle for the purpose of morale was highly sought;
 * A taikomochi who continued to insult a single individual more than three times could be subject to exile or in rare circumstances death;
 * A taikomochi was considered property for the duration of their employ, with all payment tendered at the end of such and all basic needs seen to for the same duration.

Over time, especially in the inner courts of the Oseuda Empire, this role transformed from one of comedian to one of companion and more slowly into the role of confidante. While the trappings of entertainer never truly vanished, this elevation in responsibility and privilege brought a certain prestige to the profession.

In modern times, taikomochi have branched once more into two separate (though very closely related) professions. Those remaining within the courts to provide advice and insight are hōtei taikomochi, while those who take to a more free-wheeling lifestyle are nōson taikomochi.