Creating a Setting / Story and not trying to Offend...

[The NPC]

So I have a setting in mind based primarily on medieval Japan with some hints of classical Japan.

I had thought to base the main antagonistic force off of an Ainu Kamuy Yushkep (or perhaps Pauchi)with maybe a lovecraftian touch here and there.

Then it occurs to me that while this story would probably only have a western audience, would it be poor form of me to go this route considering that the Ainu are still a discriminated against people group in Japan?

Or am I over thinking things?

[Krensky]

Assuming my quick checks are correct, I would go with Pauchi since he is an evil spirit/good and Yusuke is a benevolent god.

Just don't make the Ainu as a people the villains and you'll be OK.

[The NPC]

I wasn't planning on making them villains. Opposed to imperial authority of course and later convinced to join in the fight, but not villains.

Bit of a correction: When I put down Yushkep, I meant to put down Poronitne.

[Krensky]

As long as you're using the demons/evil spirits as the bad guys and not the gods/good spirits and don't turn the entire people into a stereotype, you should be ok.

If you're going to be professionally publishing it, you may want to make sure you do your research more on the thorough side and try to ask or a once over by an expert or member of the Ainu culture.

From what you've said you should be ok though.

[The NPC]

Cool. Thanks.