We have a couple of monster boys joining the fray. How about a human one? [center][hider= A Humble Wanderer] [img]https://i.imgur.com/0zvnz6I.png[/img] [img]https://i.imgur.com/7PNGFcB.jpg[/img] [i][b][color=0054a6]"My mind, clear as the blue stream. My blade, empty as the stormless sky."[/color][/b][/i] [u][b]Name[/b][/u]: Kannazuki Shizuka (神無月 閑か) [u][b]Aliases[/b][/u]: Arashi no Hitokiri or Hitokiri Kannazuki [b][u]Race[/u][/b]: Human [b][u]Appearance:[/u][/b] Shizuka is a fair-skinned native that is slightly above average height for a Zipangunese man, he has sharp features and has long black hair with a blue hue that he usually keeps tied up in a ponytail. He wears traditional warrior garb native to the region with a unique flair to it; it also possesses no features that tie it to any particular affiliation. He possesses auburn eyes that adorn a calm and quiet expression most of the time. [u][b]Magic/Abilities/Equipment[/b][/u]: Shizuka carries with him a shikomizue (cane sword) when in battle. It has a blue blade with a wavy design etched on it. He weara a bit of armor on his traditional robes, but leaves it light in order to suit his fighting style. [hider= Teikoku Arahsi-ryū ] Teikoku Arashi – ryū: ( 帝国嵐剣流, Imperial Storm Sword Style) The Teikoku-Arashi – ryū is an ancient style of kenjutsu and arcane magic developed in the eastern isles by a man named Chiryoku Ame, who later became the first master of the style. The art was originally made to honor and imbue a person with the teachings of the Azure Dragon of the East, Seiryū. In folklore, the Azure Dragon is lord of the eastern sky, represented by Jupiter and the element wood, and controls the rain. The magic associated with the style consists of elements associated with storms - water, wind, and lightning. Within this particular sword style there can be only one master and a single student, and the teachings are kept secret between the two individuals. After the student successfully learns all of the techniques and abilities of Teikoku Arashi up to the penultimate technique, the final part of their training involves them learning the final attack and using it to slay their master in single confrontation. If they are victorious they will become the new master and inherit all of the secrets of the style. The core principles of Teikoku Arashi are rooted in the virtue of benevolence and creativity; practitioners of the style seek altruism as a whole rather than side with a specific side of the political spectrum. “The world isn’t black and white, but rather numerous shades of gray”, this is one of the quotes the current master leaves with their student during training. The style deals with the relativism of morality and how clear cut definitions of “good” and “evil” should be avoided; practitioners are also prohibited from using the style to gain wealth, political power, or social status. Also, while killing is frowned upon, it is permitted by the school in extreme circumstances. Practitioners of Teikoku Arashi are equal part swordsmen and sorcerers; there method of fighting encompassed by combining various sword and spellcasting techniques with maneuverability that gives the user god-like speed (Known as Shinsoku-神速). The swordsmanship that defines the styles consists of various one-handed and two-handed strikes, in addition to iaijutsu techniques and some attacks that even incorporate the sheath. Spellcasting is achieved through methods similar to how western mages utilize mana for their techniques (Called Flow-気 in Zipangu). Spells taught in the school are used primarily to augment sword techniques, which is the main focus of the style. However, the spells can be used on their own for offense and defense, in addition to including illusionary magic that can enfeeble foes. There are also CQC techniques taught as part of the style to increase its versatility. These included powerful strikes, kicks, sweeps, locks, and takedowns meant to disarm and incapacitate foes in a deft, sudden manner matching the ebb and flow of the shifting waves. Experienced users also possess a pseudo-clairvoyance that allows them to predict the next move of an attacker based on part experience and flow reading. [u][b]List of techniques: [/b][/u] Uryūtsuizume (雨竜槌爪, Rain Dragon Hammer Claw) – From an upward position (usually initiated by a powerful jump or from elevated footing via wind magic), the user uses the momentum of their fall to slam down on the foe with a two-handed slash. Uryūtsuizume ● Sanka (雨竜槌爪・惨禍, Rain Dragon Hammer Claw: Calamity) – Starts the same as the normal technique, but the attack is now a stabbing motion rather than a slash. The stabbing was originally meant to impale a person and end them, however the power from the attack can also be used to impale the ground. This causes it to crack apart and kick about debris. Uryūshōzume (雨竜翔爪, Rain Dragon Soaring Claw) – Directly opposite of the Uryūtsuizume, this technique involves the user attacking the opponent with an upward strike. Good versus airborne opponents, when used against grounded foes the user positions the blade just below the opponent’s neck and lets loose with the rising slash. It is the same as the previous technique in which wind is used to strengthen the force of the slash. Uryūtsui ● Shōzume (雨竜槌・翔爪, Rain Dragon Hammer: Soaring Claw) – A combination attack consisting of both the Uryūtsuizume and Uryūshōzume. It starts with the user performing Uryūshōzume, then moving past them in the air, slams the foe to the ground with Uryūtsuizume. This technique can also be performed in reverse as well. Uryū Tōhōfū Kari (雨竜 東方風 刈, Rain Dragon East Wind Shear) – This technique calls upon the god-like speed associated with Teikoku Arashi – ryū. The user charges at the opponent with full force in a single direction. Then as the opponent prepares for the user’s attack, the user suddenly splits into three targets that come at the opponent from different angles. Then, the user delivers three simultaneous strikes and the afterimages vanish without a trace. Uryū Urami ● Mizore (雨竜 恨み・霙, Rain Dragon’s Resentment: Sleet) – The user blankets the foe in a shower of ice. While the attack can be used on the ground, it is normally performed in the air. Uryū Ikidō ● Kaminari (雨竜 憤・雷, Rain Dragon’s Indignation: Lightning God) – The user jumps into the air and strikes the ground with a large and powerful lightning bolt. Depending on the amount of mana put into the technique it can have a very large blast radius. Stronger variants of the attack can send streams of lightning across the radius for added effect. Like the previous technique, it can also be performed on the ground via a downward thrust. Uryū Suichū (雨竜 水柱, Rain Dragon Waterspout) – Best when used while being surrounded by a group of enemies. The user gathers water and performs a 360 spin to slash opponents from all directions. A large column of water is also created that can be used to defend against various attacks. This attack can also be used to counter forward thrusts or charging attacks, the user sidesteps a forward moving foe to move past them. They then spin at a 180 degree angle, strengthening the sword swing with centrifugal force and high water pressure, which is then aimed at either the foe’s back or neck. Uryū Suichū ● Senki (雨竜 水柱・旋回 , Rain Dragon Waterspout: Whirl) – A variant of Suichū, this technique involves charging at the foe with a forward horizontal spin. The drilling motion resembles the spinning movement of a dragon flying through the air; after closing in, a powerful slash is delivered to the adversary. While it has other uses, this technique is best used as a counter attack. Uryū Suichū ● Kogarashi (雨竜 水柱・凩, Rain Dragon Waterspout: Wintry Wind) - Another variant, this attack involves the user cloaking themselves in cold energy and lunging at the foe with a vertical spinning overhead attack. It is a good counter for downward and upward slashes., and the cold energy can weaken and even freeze opponents in their tracks. Uryū Suichū ● Kirisame (雨竜 水柱・霧雨, Rain Dragon Waterspout: Misty Rain) – The third variant involves the user spinning their sword in front of them in a 360 degree motion. Magic is channelled into the blade and a stream of hazy energy is blasted at the foe. This technique is also well suited for blocking against projectile attacks. Uryūbutōsen (雨竜舞踏閃, Rain Dragon Dancing Flash) – A massive barrage of slashes is delivered to the opponent. The sheer speed of the strikes makes it difficult to defend against. Uryūbutōsen ● Toppū (雨竜舞踏閃・突風, Rain Dragon Dancing Flash: Squall) – A variant of the original technique, a powerful wind is added to the barrage. This variant is effective to use against a group of enemies and allows the user to gain some breathing room by pushing back with strong gusts. Uryūbutōsen ● Raiu (雨竜舞踏閃・雷雨, Rain Dragon Dancing Flash: Thunderstorm) – Another variant, the multitude of slashes are back by both lightning and wind magic, further adding to the destructive force of the attack. Hyōrangeki (雹嵐撃, Hailstorm Strike) – The user channels energy into their palm and then fires a powerful blizzard blast, completely trapping their opponent in a violent snowstorm – leaving the opponent to be apart by the immense magical energy. Uryūmei (雨竜鳴, Rain Dragon Shriek) – A technique where the user utilizes iaijutsu and godspeed in order to sheath the blade, rather than draw it. As the blade is sheath, the speed and force used creates a deafening shriek akin to thunder that can stun opponents sensitive to sound. Uryū Gensō (雨竜幻想, Rain Serpent’s Illusion) – The user creates illusions that fool the opponent into thinking that something is there when there is nothing there at all. The illusion can be of anything, although it tends to depend on the user’s taste. Eseryu (蛻 似非竜 False Dragon) – An ability that initiates when the user is struck. At first glance it would appear the user had been successfully hit by the attack. However, the user soon fades away into a haze of mist, revealing itself to be a mere fake. The fake is actually an afterimage created by god-like speed. Nasen no Tōhōseiza(七閃 東方星, Seven Flashes of the East Constellation) – The penultimate technique of Teikoku Arashi–ryū, proficiency with this attack is a prerequisite to learn the true final technique. It is a dashing attack that combines Shinsoku along with kendō in order to strike seven vital areas of the opponent’s body simultaneously.The speed, power, and force of the attack differs from user to user. Another important factor of the attack is that it combines all three elements associated with the sword style (water - in the form of ice, wind, and lightning). The vital points are struck by each of these elements - leaving them seared by wind, charred by lightning, and frozen by ice. If someone is faster than the user (i.e. faster than Shinsoku), the technique can be avoided completely. The technique can also be countered or blocked if met with an attack of similar power and speed. The seven vital points of the body struck are as follows: Just above the head The center of the chest The left arm The right right The left leg The right leg The abdomen area via an upward stroke The speed and power of the attack make it nearly unblockable and unavoidable by most. Hand-to-Hand Techniques – A list of various bare handed techniques that include strikes, sweeps, kicks, takedowns, and parrying moves. Mainly used as a more effective way of disarming or incapacitating foes without killing them, focusing on targeting pressure points and joint manipulation. However, these techniques can be just as lethal when wielded by an expert. Dragon Cyclone - Delivers a flurry of kicks with such speed that it thrashes the foe about as if hit by a maelstrom. Fang Bullet - Hits the opponent’s vital points with a barrage of strikes; the attack makes use of two fingers as opposed to clenched fists or open-hand palms. Sinew Crush - A palm or fist is delivered to a ligament on the body as a means to disable a limb by way of breaking bones. Toho Falls - A takedown that follows after a parry. Locking the foe’s arms, the user lifts the foe off the ground using strength and their own momentum and promptly slams them on the ground. Tidal Wave - The user instantly crouches and sweeps the opponent off their feet with a low kick. Also effective to use as a counter. Twin Claw Smash - The user clenches both fists and extends their arms outward, positioning their fists vertical from one another. Channeling flow, the user then hits the foe head on with a two step attack that includes the physical hit along with the flow generated with it. (ドラゴン桜) Dragon Blossom - A parry that can also be used to disarm a foe. The user blocks an incoming attack using their hands crossed into an X symbol, stopping their momentum. Then the user clenches the wrists of the attacker, using the pressure to have them drop their weapon. Then the foe is pushed back by way of throw or kick. Talon Shear - The user channels flow into their strikes, chopping away at various vital areas on the foe’s body. Serpent Constrict - Utilizing joint manipulation, the user places the foe within a hold. The pressure used can be increased as a means to make the foe submit. Snout Rupture - Using a striking motion with either a fist or elbow, the user attacks the head and feebles them. The intent is to have the opponent’s brain rattle using the force generated from the strike. Iaijutsu Techniques – Practitioners of Teikoku Arashi- ryū are all required to master iaijutsu , which is the art of drawing out the sword in quick, seamless motions. The purpose of the art was to cut down opponents with a single strike, drawing out the sword with such speed that the untrained eye is unable to register the motion. Bōfūga (暴風牙, Gale’s Fang) - The user draws their blade from the sheath with incredible speed, backed with powerful wind magic. This sends the target flying into the air and makes it hard to recover. The user then jumps into the air above them and delivers a powerful slash, passing them on the way down. This technique has a few variants. It is possible for someone to block the wind enough to prevent being blown into the air, however it still may be strong enough to knock a person off balance (they would also have to worry about being cut by the first slash from the sheath). Bōfūga ● Inazuma (暴風牙・稲妻, Gale’s Fang: Lightning Flash) – The technique starts out just like the base move, but instead of jumping after the opponent, the user casts lightning magic around the wind gust. This creates a small storm-like attack that leaves the target with electric burns. Bōfūga ● Fubuki (暴風牙・吹雪, Gale’s Fang: Snowstorm) – The startup of this variant involves using ice magic to augment the initial wind gust. Then, jumping at the opponent, the user unleashes a barrage of slashes. The foe is sheared by the freezing wind and then cut by the sword strikes during the second phase. Sōnamisen (双波閃, Twin Wave Flash) – A Two-step attack and one of the most fundamental iaijutsu techniques in the Teikoku Arashi school. The user assumes a counter-stance and as the opponent draws near, they let loose with a powerful slash that emits a blue shockwave. The shockwave leaves a rather painful wound on its target, and it can damage anything in its path. In the second step the sheath is wielded along the same path as a blunt weapon, the strike with the sheath is strong enough to shatter boulders and bone. The sheath attack is powerful insurance in case the first step fails, and it hits when one least expects it. Sōnamisen ● Ikazuchi (双波閃・雷, Twin Wave Flash: Thunder) – A variation of Sōnamisen wherein the sword is wielded while still in its sheath. The user bludgeons the enemy with the sword encased in its sheath, then when the sheath makes contact, the user draws the sword and emits a lightning bolt from the blade. This technique was made with the assumption that the first hit of the attack will be blocked in some way. Seiryū no Saikō Hi(青龍の最高飛, Supreme Flight of the Azure Dragon) – The final technique of Teikoku Arashi –ryū, it is the most powerful and perhaps the most dangerous attack in the school. It is actually a counter-stance, and starts like any other iaijutsu technique. However, it differs in that the stance is only taken at the last possible second of an enemy attack and the user takes an extra step toward them, risking the life of the user. Taking this step makes it so that the user’s leg is within their blade’s cutting length, making it possible for their limb to be severed whenever the attack is used. However, this makes it so that drawing speed for the technique surpasses even Shinsoku. At the last instant, the user draws their sword from the sheath with such speed that it displaces the wind around the vicinity. The vacuum created by the slash renders the opponent immobile. Then, charging ice, lightning, and wind the user makes a second strike with the blade that matches the power of the most unforgiving storm, dwarfing the first strike in power. The opponent is sent flying back in a barrage of elemental torrents. This is perhaps the only technique in the entire style that is flawless – The speed of the techniques makes it nearly impossible to dodge, and even if the first slash doesn’t hit the opponent will be rendered immobile through the wind displacement and will be doomed to be struck down by the second attack. However, the true strength of the technique lies within the mental state of the user. Using this attack to counter the master’s Nasen no Tōhōseiza and slay them in battle in the final test for the student to graduate from the teachings of Teikoku Arashi. Once the task is completed the student will become the new master and inherit the name of Chiryoku, in order to preserve the first master’s legacy. This system of succession is the reason why so few practitioners of the art have existed. The style demands that whoever undergoes mastery must understand the true value of life, that is why the student is put into a life or death situation against their master’s unrestrained Nasen no Tōhōseiza. Being the only attack in the school to surpass the Nasen no Tōhōseiza in power and speed, the student must perform the ultimate technique perfectly - lest they be slain and therefore learnt the style for naught. If victorious, the student will have achieved mastery and fully inherited the final technique, but at the cost of the previous master’s life. While the final technique seems flawless by normal means, in order to execute it to its fullest extent, one must have strong mental fortitude when performing it. Only having the will to live and being brave enough to stare death in the face will allow the user to clear all turmoil in their hearts and strike with the attack perfectly. [/hider] [u][b]Personality[/b][/u]: Shizuka is a quiet, calm, almost pacifistic man. At first glance Shizuka is a very average person, often appearing as unimpressive and acquiescent to most people. Under this veil, however, lies a seasoned warrior whose years of experience lend him composed surety in the face of all adversity. He is often seen with a tepid, collected expression on his face due to his conditioning as a former assassin. However, he is more than capable of showing his emotions during different circumstances. He always speaks in a well-mannered, almost intellectual tone, always using honorifics when addressing people. Shizuka is a person who is always deep in thought, having gone through much in his life. His experiences have given him accurate insight to the ways of the world and is often good at reading people. Because of a tragedy that had befallen him in the final moments of the Seika (Divine Flame) war he participated in. Shizuka has chosen to fully embrace the teachings of Teikoku Arashi in order to atone for his mistakes. He no longer wishes to pledge his sword to a lord or a political agenda, instead of picking sides he chooses to pledge his blade for the overall well-being of all peoples. It is for this reason while being courteous to all he meets, he chooses to keep would-be friends and allies at an emotional distance. While in battle, he remains composed and focused at all times, quickly analyzing the in’s and out’s of the opponent in front of him. While battle is not his first option, Shizuka believes that taking no action at all is the same as accepting the injustice around a person. He will not hesitate to send anyone who threatens the livelihood of others flying in a torrent of frozen wind. While preferring to raise his sword for someone else, he will not simply let one inflict harm upon him without good reason. He also doesn’t mind friendly sparring, seeing it as a good way to keep his skills sharp. [u][b]Background[/b][/u]: Kannazuki Shizuka was born a boy from a small mountain village on the Far Eastern Isles. During this time, he went by his birth name, Saku. The boy’s parents died from illness while he was young, and most people were too poor to care for themselves, let alone a child. Due to this, the Saku was forced to fend for himself at a young age. Eventually, the young boy left in hopes of finding a better life. Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned. One thing lead to another, and the boy found himself at the mercy of a brigand ring. Just when all hope seems lost, a man appeared seemingly from nowhere and cut down the bandits in a blink of an eye. The man introduced himself as Chiryoku Ame IX, and as fate would have it he eventually took the boy in and tutored him in the art of the sword. At that point, the man had renamed the boy Kannazuki Shizuka. Shizuka trained diligently under the teachings of his master until he turned 18 years of age. Having felt that the Revolutionists were in the right, Shizuka wanted to postpone his training and use his new found skills to assist in the Seika war stirring on Kamitsuchi Island. Going against all Teikoku Arashi stood for, Ame forbade his student from leaving and being drafted. Not willing to listen to reason, Shizuka chose to walk out on his foster father and pledge loyalty to the Revolutionists who stood against the Shogunate. He believed siding with them was the quickest way to peace. And so Shizuka became an assassin, having killed many soldiers and earning himself the moniker of Arashi no Hitokiri. However, after certain key moments, he suddenly abandoned the battlefield near the final events of the war. The Revolutionaries ultimately won, though the victory no longer meant anything to him. Having vanished from the war, his whereabouts have been unknown for over a decade. Although, recently rumors have been spreading that a vigilante has been going around settling disputes and random acts of violence around the countryside. Lady Kyouka was apparently one of those who caught wind. After directly reaching out to him and explaining the situation, he decided this would a cause worthy to find for. Favorite Monster Girl: Ryu [/hider][/center] [center][url=https://youtu.be/26MUv9nh-9A]🐉[/url][/center]