Ryoichi Kanzaki

"Freedom is not a privilege bestowed upon a select few; it is a birthright that belongs to all. - Ryoichi
Ryoichi Kanzaki, also known as “Bobi,” is a nobleman and heir to the esteemed House of Kanzaki. After a traumatic event where, as a result, his father almost beat him to death, Ryoichi was forced to flee his homeland. He had stolen the family's treasured sword in defiance, but now, driven by a deep sense of remorse and duty, he travels the world with the goal of returning the sword to his homeland to atone for his past actions.
After being locked up in Havenridge prison for three years for a crime he wasn't even given the chance to explain, Ryoichi had a lot of time to think. The rising tension between the families, his father's harsh upbringing, the death of his sister, and the theft of a priceless artifact as an act of defiance all weighed heavily on him. He finally realized that he must stand up for his mistakes and make amends. During his imprisonment, Ryoichi also discovered the true meaning of freedom, a concept he had subconsciously longed for as a child. Now, he is determined to extend that freedom to those who deserve it but have been denied it.
== Personality ==
Ryoichi, renowned for his naive and pragmatic nature, navigates life with a certain reckless abandon and simplicity. From a young age, his fascination with the sword eclipsed the lessons his aunt diligently endeavored to impart. Frequently, he would forgo these teachings, choosing instead to hone his swordsmanship or sneak into town to play with his friends. His habitual truancy and lack of attention in class resulted in a less-than-stellar academic performance. This tendency towards impulsivity often manifested in his actions, where he would act first and think later. Despite this, Ryoichi possesses a more serious side, particularly evident in the heat of battle or when the safety of his loved ones is at stake.
Ryoichi's childhood was marked by a strained relationship with his father and a persistent sense of inadequacy. Despite his earnest efforts to earn his father's respect, his attempts were met with indifference and disappointment. This fueled his rebellious streak, leading him to abandon preparations for his future role as the shogun's right hand and instead pursue his own desires. His father, noticing this defiance, intensified the punishments, further straining their relationship. In contrast, Ryoichi's mother provided him with a sanctuary, shielding him from these negative experiences. Despite her care however, Ryoichi felt confined, living a life he had not chosen. He yearned for freedom, a life he could shape according to his own will, where he held the power to make his own decisions.
After surviving the Attack on Kanzaki Castle, Ryoichi has been tormented by nightmares, haunted by the memory of his failure to protect his sister and his own perceived weakness. The trauma from the attack has also left him with a severe fear of fire; he experiences panic attacks whenever he sees a burning building or a large flame. His somewhat childish behavior is like a scar that he has carried with him since that fateful event, as he still hasn't fully come to terms with it.
Despite these scars, Ryoichi has developed a strong protective instinct. Driven by the desire to never repeat his past mistakes, he dedicates himself to safeguarding those he cares about and defending the weak. This determination to protect others has become a defining aspect of his character, shaping his actions and purpose.
== Physical Description ==
Ryoichi possesses an athletic build, his body marked by numerous scars that tell tales of past battles and hardships. His hair is black, often wild and unkempt, matching his rugged appearance. A distinctive feature of his are his striking yellow eyes, an unusual trait for a human that often draws attention.
His overall look is rather disheveled, with untamed hair and a beard that has grown in a wild, untrimmed manner. A prominent scar runs across his left cheek, a permanent reminder of a significant and painful event in his past.
Despite being far from his homeland, Ryoichi continues to wear clothing that resembles the traditional attire of his native land, setting him apart in the main continent. He also carries a large sword on his back, an Odachi, which further emphasizes his connection to his origins and his warrior spirit.
== Fighting Style ==
Despite lacking the ability to cast spells or wield magic, Ryoichi excels with his primary weapon, the Odachi—a long, heavy katana steeped in his family's martial tradition. With this formidable blade, Ryoichi skillfully employs the unique and potent techniques passed down through generations of the Kanzaki family. His combat style blends strength, precision, and grace, showcasing his unparalleled mastery of the Odachi.
While he is proficient with various other weapons, it is with the Odachi that Ryoichi truly shines. His expertise allows him to execute complex maneuvers and deliver devastating strikes with exceptional finesse and control. Handling the Odachi's considerable length and weight comes naturally to Ryoichi, underscoring his profound connection to his martial heritage.
== Abilities ==
Ryoichi possesses the ability to enhance both his own body and objects using mana. Through focused concentration, he can imbue his muscles, limbs, or weapons with heightened strength and durability. While he has gained control over this ability, Ryoichi still lacks a deeper understanding of mana to develop it into a refined technique.
When Ryoichi channels mana, his body or the targeted object begins to glow with a golden light, surrounded by small sparks of energy. Additionally, golden veins pulsate faintly beneath his skin as he channels this power.
At its peak, Ryoichi can amplify his physical capabilities to extraordinary levels, enabling feats of strength and endurance beyond normal human limits. However, this exertion leaves his body exhausted and temporarily immobilized, requiring significant recovery time before he can move again.
== Background ==
Ryoichi Kanzaki was born as the first son and second child of the 21-year-old Ryo Kanzaki and 19-year-old Chizuru Shirakami in Lorendel, destined to be the heir of the Kanzaki household. His father, Ryo, had assumed the position of Migi-Shogun at the young age of 18 and was determined to ensure that Ryoichi would be ready to take on this role by the time he turned 18. To achieve this, Ryo enlisted the help of his sister-in-law, Mizuki Shirakami, the leader of the Shirakami family and the director of Kirijima University, to impart the necessary knowledge and training to Ryoichi.
=== Early Life and Training ===
Ryo had high expectations and wished for Ryoichi to begin his education at the age of five. Besides academic instruction from Mizuki, Ryoichi also received swordsmanship training from an elf servant named Elfred, with occasional lessons from his father. Initially, Ryoichi worked tirelessly to meet his father's demanding standards, but he struggled to excel both in his studies and in mastering the sword. 
Ryo's disappointment and frustration often manifested in punishments for Ryoichi, who was either tasked with menial labor around the castle or subjected to harsh training sessions with a bokken (wooden sword). Verbal abuse and being labeled a failure were common occurrences. Despite this, Ryoichi found solace and encouragement from his mother and sister, who motivated him to persist and took care of him whenever he was injured.
Elfred, too, played a crucial role in Ryoichi's life, constantly encouraging him to continue practicing his swordsmanship and even gifting him his first katana. At times, Ryoichi would find peace by the koi pond in his residence, playing with his favorite fish, "Bobi," which always brought him a sense of calm and comfort. Ryoichi also shared a close bond with his cousin, Yoshimune Shirakami, the son of Mizuki. Their relationship was friendly yet competitive, especially in sword fighting, where Ryoichi was often outperformed by Yoshimune.
==== Conflict with Father and Personal Discovery ====
Ryoichi's relentless efforts were met only with more scorn and punishment from his father, leading him to seek his own path in life rather than striving to fulfill Ryo's expectations. Realizing that he lacked the talent to become Migi-Shogun, Ryoichi found more joy in practicing swordsmanship with Yoshimune or playing with local children in the city. He often caused trouble in the city, acting as a self-proclaimed hero by chasing down thieves and delivering what he considered justice. When his father learned of these escapades, the punishments grew harsher, including threats of disinheritance if Ryoichi did not fulfill his duties. Ryoichi's defiance further strained their relationship, leading to frequent confrontations.
=== Turbulent Adolescence ===
When Ryoichi was about 14, tensions between the Kanzaki and Tajikara families escalated. Goro Tajikara, the leader of the Tajikara house, was notorious for his brutal and inhumane methods of suppressing rebellions, drawing the attention of the Shogun. Ryo Kanzaki was tasked with investigating Goro's actions, which included atrocities such as rape, arson, and the slaughter of women and children, using their body parts as trophies. 
Goro was deemed utterly insane, exploiting the slightest excuse to launch campaigns against perceived rebellious houses. He seemed to derive pleasure from spreading fear, violence, and terror, even attacking noble houses that had committed no crimes but appeared hostile to the Shogun in his eyes. As it is considered high treason to randomly and unjustifiably burn down villages, houses, and towns, a battle erupted between the House of Kanzaki and the House of Tajikara. The Kanzakis emerged victorious in this conflict. Subsequently, Goro was captured and brought to the capital where he was executed by Ryo Kanzaki using the Soul Cleaver. 
==== Tragedy and Betrayal ====
Seeking revenge, Goro's father, Saburo Tajikara and Goro's wife, Kohaku Kurosaki, plotted an attack on the Kanzaki castle, aiming to eliminate a key family member. The Shinobi of the Kurosaki family, along with disguised Tajikara warriors, infiltrated the castle at night, setting it ablaze. Among the attackers was Goro's son, Takeo Tajikara, a formidable fighter even at the age of 14. Ryoichi was tasked by Elfred to protect his sister, Haruka Kanzaki, while Elfred protected Ryoichi's mother. As Ryoichi and Haruka fought their way through the burning castle and reached the courtyard, they saw a figure waiting for them—a young Shinobi with two bloodstained swords. This Shinobi was none other than Takeo. Ryoichi drew his sword and urged Haruka to escape through the main entrance while he held off the Shinobi. Ryoichi and Takeo engaged in a duel, with Ryoichi barely able to withstand Takeo's fast and aggressive attacks. It was clear to Ryoichi that his opponent was vastly superior. When two Shinobi grabbed Haruka, causing her to scream, Ryoichi was momentarily distracted. Takeo seized this opportunity, leaping into the air and slamming Ryoichi to the ground. He drove one of his swords into Ryoichi's back, pinning him to the floor. As Ryoichi lay helpless on the ground, he watched as the two Shinobi held Haruka by her arms. Takeo then killed her with a diagonal sword strike. Overcome with rage and desperation, Ryoichi pushed himself up from the ground, the sword still embedded in him. He managed to stand, pulled the sword from his body, and charged at Takeo and the two Shinobi with such fury and wrath that even Takeo momentarily recoiled. 
However, this onslaught was quickly ended when Ryoichi was struck by three arrows in the back, causing him to collapse again. Just before the archer could deliver the final shot to Ryoichi, reinforcements from House Kanzaki and House Shirakami arrived, driving the remaining Shinobi into retreat. Ryoichi saw Yoshimune running towards him with two soldiers from the House Shirakami. As they approached, Ryoichi's vision blurred, and he lost consciousness. Yoshimune, along with Shirakami soldiers, found Ryoichi and rushed him to safety.
=== Exile and Journey to the "outside world" ===
Ryoichi awoke in a house in Lorendel, almost all of his body was covered in bandages. A Shirakami family doctor marveled at his survival, given the severity of his injuries. His mother was relieved to see him awake after he had been in a coma for a week. During his coma, she and Yoshimune kept vigil by his side every night. Once Ryoichi recovered enough to leave the house, he was confronted with the sight of the completely burned-down castle, triggering traumatic memories.
==== Ryo's Arrival and Confrontation ====
About a week later, Ryo arrived to see the situation for himself and was equally horrified by what he saw. When he learned that Haruka had been killed and that Ryoichi was responsible for her safety, he summoned Ryoichi to give an explanation. Ryoichi recounted his battle against an extremely skilled Shinobi wielding two swords, who had overpowered him and executed Haruka. Hearing this story, Ryo became furious, enraged that his son had failed once again.In his fury, Ryo beat Ryoichi mercilessly, repeatedly calling him a failure. As Ryoichi's wounds reopened, he felt the same helplessness he had experienced the night he couldn't protect his sister. This brutal ordeal left Ryoichi with a large scar on his left cheek. Chizuru intervened, stopping Ryo when Ryoichi was already half-dead on the floor. However, Ryo shouted at Ryoichi, declaring him disinherited and no longer a Kanzaki. He commanded Ryoichi to disappear and never set foot in the city's noble district again.
==== Disownment ====
After being brutally beaten, Ryoichi tended to his wounds and found refuge in an abandoned house in Lorendel. During this time, he was plagued by nightmares of his sister's death at the hands of the Shinobi. For about two months, Ryoichi lived in this abandoned house. His mother visited daily, bringing him food and sometimes staying overnight. His mentor, Elfred, also visited frequently to ensure Ryoichi didn't forget his sword skills. Elfred often told him stories about the "world outside," which Ryoichi listened to eagerly. During this phase, Ryoichi's desire for freedom grew stronger than ever; he wanted to see the world for himself. 
==== Decision to Leave Kirjima ====
Once his wounds fully healed, Ryoichi decided to build a boat to sail away from Kirjima, as he felt there was no place for him there anymore. His mother learned of his plan and tried to dissuade him, but Ryoichi explained that he needed to find his own path and be free. His mother warned him of the dangers outside and expressed her endless worries for him if he left. Ryoichi, however, insisted that now that he was disinherited and no longer a Kanzaki, it was the first time in his life he could choose his own destiny. He was determined to follow through with his plan. Eventually, his mother relented and did her best to support him in his endeavor. When Ryoichi finished building his boat, he thought of one last thing: he wanted to get back at his father. He decided to steal the family heirloom, the Soul Cleaver, before leaving.
==== Theft of the Soul Cleaver ====
On the day of his departure, Ryoichi sneaked into his father's temporary residence and took the family heirloom. When he held the sword, a cold shiver ran down his spine, but he remained resolute, took the sword, and fled the residence. He ran to the shore where his boat awaited him, but found Elfred and his mother there as well. Realizing they would recognize the sword immediately, he sneaked into a nearby house and stole a long cloth to wrap around the sword. 
==== Farewell and Departure ====
When he reached the boat, Elfred and his mother brought him provisions and clothing for a safe journey. His mother embraced him with tears in her eyes, wishing him all the best and hoping he would one day return home. Ryoichi, also in tears, promised his mother they would see each other again. Elfred bid Ryoichi farewell, expressing his deep respect and gratitude for serving his family.
==== Rescue and Arrival in Crystalbloom ====
With a heavy heart, Ryoichi set off on his adventure, rowing away in his makeshift boat. However, the boat's poor construction soon became a problem. After about three hours of relentless rowing, water began to seep into the vessel. Ryoichi tried to seal the leaks, but his efforts were in vain. The boat sank steadily, leaving him stranded in the middle of the sea. Just when hope seemed lost, a trading ship bound for Crystalbloom appeared and rescued him. The crew asked Ryoichi if he was headed to Crystalbloom as well, to which he agreed, and they continued their journey.
Upon arriving in the island city of Crystalbloom, Ryoichi inquired about a ferry to the mainland. To his surprise, he encountered Hanae Tsugane, an old friend, who was at the harbor with her sisters. Despite Ryoichi's change in appearance, Hanae recognized him immediately and teased him, but she stopped when she noticed the fresh scars on his cheek and arms. She asked why he had come to Crystalbloom. Ryoichi explained his situation—his disinheritance and his plan to leave Kirijima. At first, Hanae laughed, thinking it was a joke, but she quickly realized from Ryoichi's serious expression that he was telling the truth. She initially tried to dissuade him, pointing out the dangers and the lack of support he would face. However, Ryoichi was determined and unwavering. He explained that he had finally found the freedom he had longed for and intended to fully embrace it, despite the risks. Seeing his resolve, Hanae reluctantly supported his decision, knowing he would not be deterred once he set his mind to something.
Ryoichi asked if there was a ferry to the mainland, and Hanae confirmed, accompanying him to the ship. Before saying goodbye, she gave him a coin with a turtle symbol, telling him to show it to the city guards if he ever returned to Crystalbloom so they could bring him to her. Ryoichi thanked her and boarded the ship, paying the captain with the money his mother had given him, and they set sail for Havenridge.
=== New Beginnings in Havenridge ===
After approximately eight months at sea, Ryoichi arrived in Havenridge, astonished by the city. Everything looked so different, and the people seemed so unlike those in his homeland. Unfortunately, the language barrier was also significant, as Ryoichi couldn't understand the local tongue.
==== Friendship with Wenzel Grienfield ====
Navigating through the bustling crowd at the harbor, he accidentally bumped into a blond man with a bandana and a peculiar smell. The man turned around, and Ryoichi quickly bowed in apology. Somewhat curious as Ryoichi looked different from the people he usually encountered on the main continent. He asked for Ryoichi's name. Ryoichi looked puzzled as he didn't understand him. Realizing the language gap, the man extended his hand and introduced himself, "I'm Wenzel, Wenzel Grienfield, and I'm a farmer." Ryoichi hesitantly extended his hand, and Wenzel shook it. Using the few words he knew in the common language, Ryoichi conveyed that he came from a distant land and was seeking work. Seeing an opportunity, Wenzel, through a mix of language and gestures, managed to communicate that he could find Ryoichi work. Understanding his intention, Ryoichi agreed, and the two found a tavern to stay in for the night. 
Seven years passed, and the partnership between Ryoichi and Wenzel blossomed into a deep friendship. Ryoichi adopted the alias Bobi to avoid drawing attention to his noble background. During this time, Wenzel taught Ryoichi the common language, helping him navigate his new environment better. Wenzel also occasionally let him smoke his "stuff." At first, it was too much for Ryoichi, but he got used to it. 
==== Involvement in Underground Fights ====
Over the course of these 7 years, Ryoichi and Wenzel earned money by participating in underground fights, where Ryoichi's experience as a young samurai gave him a significant edge over the relatively untrained arena fighters. His unorthodox fighting style and youthful prowess soon made him a well-known figure in the underground ring. With Wenzel organizing the fights through his city contacts, they both made good money in Havenridge.
=== A.R.T.E.C. and Imprisonment ===
However, Ryoichi's growing fame attracted attention, and the sword he was carrying caught the eye of the feared yet respected special unit A.R.T.E.C., who discovered it was a magical artifact not registered in their archives. Possession of such an artifact was illegal and punishable by a lengthy prison sentence. Seeing an opportunity to kill two birds with one stone, A.R.T.E.C. raided the illegal underground arena, capturing both the operator and Ryoichi, and seizing the sword. Ryoichi desperately protested that the sword was a family heirloom and rightfully his. One of the five A.R.T.E.C. members explained that, heirloom or not, the possession of such an artifact was illegal, and he would be imprisoned in Havenridge.
==== Redemption ====
Ryoichi's imprisonment was set to last six years, giving him ample time to reflect on what had happened in his homeland, the mistakes made by both himself and his father, and what it truly meant to be "free." In prison, he felt as confined, if not more so, than he had in his homeland. He yearned to be free and forge his own path, but fate seemed determined to thwart him at every turn.
He also learned from many prisoners that they were wrongfully imprisoned and innocent. As he listened to their stories, he resolved that, upon his release, he would grant freedom to those who deserved it but had been denied. During this time, Ryoichi made it his mission to bestow freedom upon as many deserving individuals as possible, believing that everyone had a right to freedom and despising those who sought to take it away.
==== Prison Break ====
After three years in prison, a new inmate arrived: his old friend Wenzel. Ryoichi saw this as an opportunity to attempt an escape. Together, with three other prisoners, they managed to break out of the prison.
And thus, their adventure began anew.