KENJUTSU (Way of the Sword)

[☆ F ☆]

Kenjutsu (剣術, literally meaning: Sword Technique) pertains to techniques that entail the use of swords, whether the users be shinobi, or samurai. Kenjutsu can be used in combination with Taijutsu, Ninjutsu, Fūinjutsu, chakra flow and even Genjutsu in order to achieve more devastating techniques. It is regarded as a branch of Bukijutsu.

The entire military might of the lone samurai nation of the Land of Iron have all been depicted as practitioners of kenjutsu. Some shinobi villages seem to promote the use of Kenjutsu as well. Regardless, the ability to fight with the sword is one of the most sacred of arts.

There are many different sword styles, but the most basic of all forms is usually considered to be Kenjutsu. While the techniques are generally fairly simple to understand and use, they are by no means to be considered weak or underpowered. In fact, they stand as a testament to some of the most powerful attacks within the world.

Kenjutsu itself is broken down into two arts: Battoujutsu and Iaijutsu. The first, Battoujutsu, is a style that focuses almost completely on offense, sacrificing many defensive qualities just for the ability to rapidly cut, slash, and kill the opponent. On the flipside of that, Iaijutsu is a style that focuses primarily of defense through evasion, parry, and riposte.

---

◀ KENJUTSU TRAITS

SPOILER: Click to show

{└ BATTOUJUTSU}BATTOUJUTSU
Type: Minor
Ranks: 2
Requirements: Kenjutsu practitioner, Ninja Grade D+

• An offensive nature of fighting within the Kenjutsu style, all Battōjutsu practitioners will tend to stand in looser patterns, letting their steel fly and attack at often irregular angles. Unlike its defensive counterpart, this form allows for quicker, more deliberate strikes, making it deadly in the hands of a true master.
  
  Rank 1 is known as the Tatsujin-ken stage and is granted thanks to in part due to your dedication to the blade. As a result, it costs you slightly less effort to perform your techniques and not lose your stamina. When using Battōjutsu exclusively, this translates to one (1) full rank less if the cost is Sustained, and a fourth if the cost is either Multi or Sustained.
  
  Rank 2 is known as the Sōgiri stage, which lets your Battōjutsu attacks utilized to be accompanied by an extra push of force, increasing its effectiveness - equivalent to having been struck by the same technique more than once in the exact same place. This will allow you to turn even a faint, seemingly harmless strike into something that, if delivered in the proper location, can be quite increasingly damaging.
  

Note: One must take this traits in order to specialize in Battōjutsu and learn its techniques.

SPOILER: Click to show

{└ IAIJUTSU}IAIJUTSU
Type: Minor
Ranks: 2
Requirements: Kenjutsu practitioner, Ninja Grade D+

• A defensive nature of fighting within the Kenjutsu style, all Iaijutsu practitioners will tend to stand in closed positions, leaving little openings and making sure to make the least amount of wasted movement possible so as to remain solid like a rock. Once the swordsman has understood the basics of fortification, they move on to more complex defensive patterns.
  
  Rank 1 is known as the Tatsujin-ken stage and is granted thanks to in part due to your dedication to the blade. As a result, it costs you slightly less effort to perform your techniques and not lose your stamina. When using Iaijutsu exclusively, this translates to one (1) full rank less if the cost is Sustained, and a fourth if the cost is either Multi or Sustained.
  
  Rank 2 is known as the Ukenagashi stage, because your Iaijutsu are now capable of interacting with certain tangible Ninjutsu by delivering blows so powerful that will effectively attempt to disrupt or neutralize the technique in question. The energy cost required to do achieve this is equivalent to the technique in question, must be used with Battōjutsu, and does not work on Ninjutsu 'A' rank or higher.
  

Note: One must take this traits in order to specialize in Iaijutsu and learn its techniques.

[☆ F ☆]

◀ Battōjutsu Ability Moveset

Dorokendageki (Draw and Strike)
Rank: D
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from any position, the practitioner draws and slashes with the sharp edge of their blade in a wide fashion and then quickly sheathes it. As they invest more time and practice into the art of offensive sheathing, their overall offensive rating shall increase, which allows their fundamental knowledge to stay relevant, even at the apex of their ability.



Mae Zuki (Front Thrust)
Rank: D
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from any position, the practitioner draws and produces a swift, lunging thrust with the point of their blade and then quickly sheathes it. As they invest more time and practice into the art of offensive sheathing, their overall offensive rating shall increase, which allows their fundamental knowledge to stay relevant, even at the apex of their ability.



Nibaigiri (Double Cut)
Rank: C
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Multi
Description: Commencing from any position, the practitioner proceeds to draw, cutting a fluid swath before using the same momentum to deliver a final slash, which leads to them sheathing once again. The movement is flashy and hard to trace, leaving unguarded opponent's in trouble.



Tsukesagiri (Cut and Thrust)
Rank: C
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from any position, the practitioner draws, attempts to stab at or thrust into the opponent and then punctuates the movement with a harsh vertical or diagonal slash, which leads them to sheathe their sword once again. By stabbing into the opponent, this allows them to capitalize on the wound and make it even deadlier.



Sandangamaegiri (Triple Cut)
Rank: B
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Multi
Description: Commencing from any position, the user unsheathes, slashes once and then continues on with their forward movement, which allows them to cut the opponent several more times while maintaining their momentum and footing. Regarded as an extremely flashy maneuver, it is also incredibly useful for offensive evasion, as the spinning motion of the user allows them to keep moving and avoid certain attacks.



Joushou Giri (Rising Cut)
Rank: B
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from a crouching or kneeling position, the practitioner grips their blade with both hands and then delivers a devastating upwards, rising slash that allows them to capitalize on an overextending opponent. By continuing with the motion, the user can utilize the momentum behind the attack and follow it up with Morote Giri for a fluid one-two combination.



Morote Giri (Two-Handed Cut)
Rank: B
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Usually employed after Joushou Giri, but can still be used as its own move from a standing position, of if the user is jumping down and towards their target, the practitioner gathers their strength and then strikes with their sword held in both hands, a death grip employed as they perform a single, strong downwards attack that is capable of smashing and breaking through defenses, as well as delivering massive damage.



Marugiri (Circle Cut)
Rank: B
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from a kneeling position, the practitioner draws, rises and spins in one fluid motion, forestalling opponents all around and then quickly sheathes. Rotating a full three hundred and sixty degrees, this cutting strike is useful for assaulting targets all around the user at once. Upon finishing the twisting cut, the user sheathes the weapon.



Senkou Zuki (Flash Thrust)
Rank: A
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Using a vast amount of mental focus, the practitioner draws in a lightning fast manner and thrusts at an opponent and sheathes again, all in the blink of an eye. Those that have gone down in history as the best Kenjutsu practitioners were said to have delivered this technique in a nearly-instantaneously, though in reality, although incredibly difficult to foresee, the victim is not completely helpless.



Sanjuu Kenippen (Triple Blade Slice)
Rank: A
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Multi
Description: Commencing from a kneeling position, the practitioner lunges towards one or many opponents, focusing their mind and skill on striking those before him. The user then draws, slashing from one side to the other, and spinning rapidly through again for another cut, then a third and final spin to finish the opponent off. The strikes are quick enough to believe one sees three blades slashing at once, and due to the erratic fashion of the technique, can be applied to multiple opponents to strike them each once, or just one to deliver multiple strikes.



Kagirinai Hagane Hitosashi (Endless Steel Dance)
Rank: S
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Offensive
Cost: Multi
Description: Known as the ultimate offensive maneuver of the Battojutsu branch of the Kenjutsu style. Commencing from a standing position, the practitioner gathers and focuses all of the energy in their mind and body simultaneously, allowing their physical energy to overflow their tenketsu as unforeseen levels of stamina surge through one's body. Then, once the user has unsheathed their blade and focused their physical energy into their body, the user then lunges forward rapidly, initiating a sequence of rapid and precise attacks. The user and their blade move like a storm, flashing from one attack to the next relentlessly, leading with attacks that are indistinguishable from the next. Thought of as the antithesis of 'Hitosashi Tenrai', the two techniques have been known to completely counteract each other, leaving behind an amazing spectacle of sparks and sword clashes.

[☆ F ☆]

◀ Iaijutsu Ability Move Set

Mae (Front)
Rank: D
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from a kneeling position, the practitioner draws their sword to forestall a frontal attack as a simple defense then sheathes. As they invest more time and practice into the art of defensive sheathing, their overall defensive rating shall increase.



Ushiro (Rear)
Rank: D
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from a kneeling position, the practitioner quickly turns and draws to forestall an attack from the rear as a simple defense then sheathes. This technique is effective as long as the user is aware of the danger behind them.



Tsukate (Defending with the Hilt)
Rank: C
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Standard (1st) / Multi (2nd)
Description: Commencing from a kneeling position, the practitioner uses the hilt to block a frontal assault, then draws and forestalls an attack from the rear, then sheathes. This technique is effective as long as the user is aware of the danger behind them, and grans the user an opportunity to launch another regular strike, or use a new technique.



Rasen Karasu-Zuki (Spiral Parry Thrust)
Rank: C
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from any position, the practitioner proceeds to unsheathe the blade and quickly strike down an incoming projectile, either slicing it in half or redirecting its path away from the user. This is useful when faced with opponents that prefer to strike from a distance, as long as the user is able to spot the incoming threat in time.



Jitentate (Rotating Shield)
Rank: C
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Sustained
Description: Commencing from a standing position, the practitioner unsheathes their sword then rotates the hilt of their blade in a spiral motion, the result being a rapid rotation that easily deflects incoming projectiles or other small objects, either slicing them in half or redirecting their path away from them user. Useful when faced with opponents that prefer to strike from a distance, as long as the user is able to spot the incoming threat in time.



Sumasshu (Smash and Defend)
Rank: C
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Supplementary
Cost: Standard (1st) / Multi (2nd)
Description: Commencing from a standing position, the practitioner strikes with the hilt at a frontal opponent's face, and if they connect, they will force the target to stumble back, which then allows the user to draw and forestalls a rear attack before sheathing. This technique is effective as long as the user is aware of the danger behind them.



Ridairekuto (Redirect)
Rank: B
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from any position, the practitioner proceeds to unsheathe their blade and quickly strike against an incoming physical attack. But, instead of simply blocking it, the user will instead use the opponents momentum against them, which in turn forces them off balance and leaves them vulnerable to a strike afterwards. While off balance, the opponent will be unable to perform actions involving high amounts of dexterity, due to the surprise of being knocked off center.



Nukiuchi (Sudden Draw)
Rank: B
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Supplementary
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from a kneeling position, the practitioner avoids a frontal strike in the form of a sudden and fast side-step, then draws to attack before sheathing again. This high-speed movement is hard to follow, and allows for the user to place themselves within the opponent's weak spot. This can only be used once per turn, and once executed, the direction cannot be changed mid-movement.



Busoukaijo (Disarmament)
Rank: B
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from a standing position, the practitioner attempts to strike with the hilt or blade at the opponent's wrist, which if successful, leads to a stunning blow forcing them to drop any item or weapon they are holding, then the user sheathes. This method is used to prevent the user from becoming overwhelmed by a stronger foe, or to simply provide the opportunity for a successful follow-up attack.



Tsukeme (To Aim at a Weak Point)
Rank: A
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m), Mid (5m ~ 10m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Standard
Description: Commencing from any position, the practitioner holds the blade within the sheath. Once the user has foreseen an incoming assault, they focus a large portion of their stamina and physical energy within their arms in order to utilize a great deal of physical strength. When the attack is within the range of their technique, the user will rapidly withdraw the weapon from the sheathe, cutting at the air in the direction of the incoming attack. The sheer force of the attack will send a cutting shockwave the thickness of the sword and attempt to slice apart the attack. Once cut in half, the attack will veer off course and leave the user, who was in the center location of the cut, unscathed. Useful against certain Ninjutsu, this allows the Iaijutsu practitioner to defend against attacks they usually would not be able to, as the cutting swath the technique extends allows it to slice through some elements that can be effected by such a response, such as fireballs and other such tangible constructs.



Hitosashi Tenrai (Dance of the Wind)
Rank: S
Range: Close (0m ~ 5m)
Type: Defensive
Cost: Multi
Description: Known as the ultimate defense maneuver of the Iaijutsu branch of the Kenjutsu style. Commencing from any position, the practitioner focuses all of the energy in their mind and body simultaneously, allowing their physical energy to overflow their tenketsu as unforeseen levels of stamina surge through one's body. Due to the elite reflexive training of the Kenjutsu style, the user becomes like a moving blur, becoming 'one with the wind' as they evade incoming attacks, either through dodging, blocking, or parrying. So long as the user is aware that the opponent is nearby, they can continue to block the attacks and strikes through their freakish reflexes and skill. The immense physical toll and drain on the user's body forces the technique to only be capable of being active for a limited moment time, so the user must use the technique wisely. Thought of as the antithesis of 'Kagirinai Hagane Hitosashi', the two techniques have been known to completely counteract each other, leaving behind an amazing spectacle of sparks and sword clashes.