Syat Tâvygoai (Judge by Weapons)

This page describes one of the Devotopai (Rituals) of the Poku Saeruo Degonjo.

The Syat Tâvygoai is how the Poku'vonai resolve a major conflict between influential Ruokai (Houses) or Punlai (Families).

The Ta'a (Speaker) for each party is called before the Tanoi (Council). The Tanoi then declare that the situation between the two factions must be brought to a close for the good of the poku (clan). The two factions then choose who will represent them in the the ceremony. Often this is the Ta'a, but it does not have to be. The Syat Tâvygoai is different from a blood duel, in that it is not necessary to kill your opponent. At the start of the actual conflict the two factions must agree upon the terms of winning. The Syat Tâvygoai takes place on the council floor, and is witnessed by all Ruoka'ka (Major Houses). Once the outcome of the judgment has been been reached the Tanoi declare the winner.

Terms of Syat

• By blood - means the first person to inflict three good freely bleeding wounds on their opponent wins.
• By skill - means whoever succeeds in disarming their opponent wins.
• By strength - means whoever can overbear and hold their opponent for an Oda (eight) count wins. This is an unarmed conflict.

The outcome of the Syat Tâvygoai is binding. All conflict between the two factions must cease or the offending party faces immediate repercussions from the Tanoi. Which can include seizure of property, loss of status, or whatever punishment the Toani feels is appropriate.