Yokuzu Clan

The Yokuzu Clan (ヨクズ, Yokodzuna Ichizoku) is a semi-prominent clan from Oto no Kuni. Since its foundation during the Third Shinobi World War, the clan has birthed and trained several distinguished shinobi.

Historically, the Yokuzu have been politically independent in opposition to the Five Great Shinobi Countries. The Yokuzu, being distant relatives of the Fūma Clan, share a common pedigree with the foundation of Otogakure. However, this commonality has not improved diplomatic ties for several generations, and the Yokuzu and Otogakure have constantly found themselves at odds.

As of late, Otogakure has managed to strategically deprive the Yokuzu of their military and economic influence in Oto no Kuni. In reponse, Ai Yokuzu, the fourth Sound Chancellor (音波リーダー, Oto Rīdā ), has been accused of dutiful negligence by the Elder Council. With full knowledge of the consequences, Ai made a disproportionate agreement with her acquaintance, the Daimyō of the Land of Whirlpools, Athos Raikon. In an attempt to inculcate military strength into the Yokuzu, Ai acquired Saiken (犀犬, Rokubi) from the Daimyō. Athos Raikon, in exchange for the Bijū, demanded the loyalty of the Yokuzu and information on their lineage. In the subsequent months, the Yokuzu were displaced from the countryside by the Otokage and confined to the southern section of Otogakure.