The Taira Clan (平家, Heike, literally House of Taira), is a family who reside within the Seireitei, Soul Society. On the surface the Taira are heavily involved with the Central 46, and have produced at least twelve judges, and an untold number of wise men. Internally, however, and secretly, the Taira act as a police force from within the Seireitei's shadow; safeguarding the peace and dispensing justice when needed. As such there are two branches: the main house that deal with judiciary matters, which the eldest inherits, and the branch house, which deals with the secretive side of the family; that is inherited by the second child. Of course, on the outside, the distinction doesn't exist and only effects the family internally.