Rontu

art by http://danillovesfood.deviantart.com/

This is a domesticated equine like creature within the setting called a Rontu. Some more info follows.

They are the most common form of personal transportation among the Zhu people. Most households own at least one and is used for quick transportation between 1 to 2 people. As such Cities have locations to leave them at, and many stores have lots made to hold them. It is also common for cities to have fields specifically for you to leave them in upon entering the area, where they will be called back when you are done. They are treated as any other property with laws differentiating no different than any household item and less than weapons. As such they are thought of as living items and not really as pets.

Lifespan: 5 to 10 years

Behavior: They are docile creatures towards people, rarely showing signs of aggression unless attacked by them. Towards other animals they are the same unless it’s a predator in which case they will try to run away. Generally speaking a Rontu will wander around, eating and running in a large circle when left alone by its owner. They’ll try to stay in the area for a day, after which if no sign of their owner they’ll leave to head home. 

Keiji Bio

Art by http://mahenbu.deviantart.com/

The Shima Clan had traditionally stayed passive in the wars that ravaged their land, a collection of religious villages that focused more on dealings with the spirit world.  Over time they found themselves dragged into conflict more and more, the changing nature of war and politics of the region slowly building up more and more enemy clans that sought their destruction.  Shima had no choice but to embrace the old ways once more, their summoners and samurai retrained for war over the last few generations to face these new conflicts and more than capable of going on the offensive.  This new more war ready Shima clan was the one that Keiji was born into, one of Boss Shima's several sons his life was a mix of luxury and bloodshed.  While not next in line for control he was still expected to be a leader and began fighting in the wars of his clan when he was barely even a teenager.  He had received the best of training and been augmented with old Shima relics to further his potential, awakening a deadly killing machine beneath his soft girly appearance.  Outside of battle the young Lord always seems happy and cheerful and more focused on romantic pursuits than any glory.  Any familiar with him know however that regardless of his personality his loyalty to his clan means he will do anything to protect and hidden under his feminine gaze are the eyes of a hardened killer.