Sugimoto-gumi

Leading Families: Shiota, Sakoda, Asumi

Allies: Miyamoto Clan

Enemies: Watanabe-Kai

Headquarters: Osaka

Signature Weapon: Iron Club

Known Rackets: Gambling, Prostitution, Extortion, Protection, Assassination

Sphere of Influence: Osaka and Miyako, plus most south and central urban areas

Pro/Anti Emperor: Staunchly Pro

Pro/Anti Gaijin: Indifferent

Tattoo Styles and Motifs: Dragons, Samurai, Katanas, Cherry Blossoms, Pagodas

The relationship between the Sugimoto-gumi and the emperor is unacknowledged but generally known, and it lends power to both groups - it gives the emperor reach into shady places that deft his authority, and it gives the Sugimoto-gumi an aura of invulnerability to law, if not their rivals.

Players associated with Sugimoto-gumi get one "get out of jail free" card from the Imperial authorities - a behind-the-scenes pardon for any moderate or minor crime (theft, burglary, extortion).