The pillow books talk about them. Other historical references cite them.
Used only in duels–except in the cases of extreme treachery–pistols existed in ancient Shanri. We know this. But I am reluctant to include them in the game.
To be completely faithful to the source material, I should have them in the book. We know the ven used them only in matters of Revenge… except for the aforementioned criminal manner. Using such a weapon outside the context of Revenge was a crime punishable by death. And only death. And to a ven, such a punishment–depriving the defendant of Solace–was terrifying enough to keep pistols out of most ven hands.
Pistols would be deadly. A successful hit gains the user an automatic four wagers, ensuring a crippling Injury.
The only way to gain the materials neccessary for firearms would require a special region: the Swamp. No Food, no Spices. Just Black Powder.
Ven references do not mention rifles or muskets at all. Not a single citation.
And the pistol is regarded as something different than a Sword. A true weapon used for a single purpose. A single deadly purpose. The purpose of murder. Such a weapon the ven regard with awe and terror. With a sword, there is Art. The parry, the lunge, the riposte. With a pistol, there is only the squeeze of a trigger and blood and murder.
“My intent is to murder you.” Four free wagers.
I’m reluctant. But if I am completely faithful to the source material, the pistol must be present. With all the weight it carries.