[@vancexentan] I was under the impression that being a hitokiri was a occupation. If hired by an official and tasked with eliminating their enemies and continuously successful at said job, then it was eventually a given that one's name would spread. Features or skills of said swordsman would leave impression, tales would be spun, and of course others hitokiris would recognize one's ability to complete the job. Manslayers (hitokiris) [i]are[/i] rare but I can't honestly think of any prominent conflicts to speak about that could give Tomonaga the title. Just thought it would be a cool backstory for Nagatoki. 

If you know any, I'd appreciate the help.