Bujin

Bujin is a generic term referring to a warrior. While the term can be applied to any person who takes up arms, no matter their cause or reason, it most commonly refers to a person who does so in a professional capacity.

Ronin
Ronin refers to a warrior who, in the capacity of samurai, served a Lord or Lady and has now fallen - through some proscribed action or inaction - into a state of dishonor. Most commonly, ronin are not called bujin due to the onus attached to them. Those who travel in regions distant from their place of previous service, however, most frequently take great pains to disguise their disgrace.

Samurai
Samurai, while technically bujin in the most literal sense, are a class unto themselves. Occupying the highest echelons of the Warrior Faith, these exceptional combatants prove their enlightenment both on and off the battlefield. They are included within this humble document for only the most tangential of discussion.

Nōmin senshi
Nōmin senshi or peasant warriors, are common folk who take up the cause of martial conflict for a variety of reasons. While many regions of the Oseudan Empire restrict weapon ownership, Nōmin senshi commonly prove their ability to defend themselves with the implements that provide their livelihood.

Shosa
Shosa or bodyguards, are a specialized form of retainer hired to protect their employer or a person designated by their employer. Given legal ramifications of weapon ownership, most shosa are provided the tools of their trade by their employer. This practice has led to the euphemism "sword-borrower" for the shosa and "sword-loaner" for those who retain them.