From Kyoto to Edo

status quo: the existing state of affairs

notably: especially, particularly

revolt: to renounce allegiance or subjection

renounce: to give up, refuse, or resign usually by formal declaration

allegiance: the fidelity owed by a subject or citizen to a sovereign or government

fidelity: the quality or state of being faithful

faithful: firm in adherence to promises or in observance of duty

intransitive verb: using an object immediately after an intransitive verb will create an incorrect sentence

flee: to run away often from danger or evil

evil: something that brings sorrow, distress, or calamity

rival: one of two or more striving to reach or obtain something that only one can possess

patron: wealthy or influential supporter of an artist or writer

shore up: to support or help (something)

aristocracy: government by the best individuals or by a small privileged class

clan: a group of people tracing descent from a common ancestor

prop up: to give help, encouragement, or support to (someone)

contentious: likely to cause disagreement or argument

succession: a number of persons or things that follow each other in sequence

all-out: made with maximum effort

hover: to remain suspended over a place or object

plunge: to cause to enter a state or course of action usually suddenly, unexpectedly, or violently

protract: to prolong in time or space

domination: exercise of mastery or ruling power

outmaneuver: to outdo, defeat, or gain an advantage over by skillful or clever maneuvering: to maneuver more effectively than

maneuver: o perform a movement in military or naval tactics in order to secure an advantage

de facto: actually

assassination: murder by sudden or secret attack often for political reasons

regent: a person who governs a kingdom in the minority, absence, or disability of the sovereign

humble: not proud or haughty: not arrogant or assertive

haughty: blatantly and disdainfully proud: having or showing an attitude of superiority and contempt for people or things perceived to be inferior

blatantly: noisy especially in a vulgar or offensive manner

disdainfully: full of or expressing contempt for someone or something regarded as unworthy or inferior

contempt: lack of respect or reverence for something

assertive: disposed to or characterized by bold or confident statements and behavior

vulgar: offensive in language

showy: making an attractive show

reputedly: according to reputation or general belief

architect: a person who designs buildings and advises in their construction

cityscape: a city viewed as a scene

rampart: a protective barrier

fortify: to make strong

perimeter: a line or strip bounding or protecting an area

deathbed: the bed in which a person dies

entrust: to confer a trust on

ablest: marked by intelligence, knowledge, skill, or competence

legendary: well-known, famous

usher: to conduct to a place

Online Dictionary Used: https://www.merriam-webster.com