“Mistakes don’t define you. What you do after them does.” - Ryoichi
Ryoichi Kanzaki, also known by the alias “Bobi”, is the disinherited heir of the noble House of Kanzaki. Once driven by wounded pride and a deep inferiority complex, Ryoichi fled his homeland after a night of devastating tragedythe loss of his sister, the wrath of his father, and his own failure to protect what mattered most. In a moment of desperation and rebellion, he stole his family’s sacred heirloom, Serei no Kubikiri, and vanished from the island nation of Kirijima.
Later, while trying to start a new life on the mainland, he was arrested for carrying Serei no Kubikiri, because it was viewed, as an unregistered magical artifact. Branded a criminal without ever being allowed to explain, he spent three years in Havenridge prison a place that forced him to sit with his regrets. Though he emerged still stubborn and impulsive, the seeds of change had been planted.
Haunted by his failures and driven by the desire to make things right, Ryoichi eventually began to grow not through power, but through self awareness. He came to understand that freedom isn’t just about escaping chains, it’s about owning your choices, and that strength is earned through failure, not granted by birth.
Now, he journeys not just to reclaim the sword he once lost, but to become the man he couldn’t be when he left home. His path is one of self-forgiveness, persistence, and quiet resistance against the weight of legacy. He carries scars he no longer hides, and a philosophy born from pain
Personality[]
In his youth, he was impulsive and arrogant, loud in his confidence, yet fragile at his core. His reckless behavior and bravado masked a deeply rooted inferiority complex born from a childhood of unmet expectations and emotional neglect. Despite earnest efforts, he could never live up to his father’s rigid standards. In response, he adopted a mask of defiance and pride, convincing himself that he didn’t need approval while desperately craving it deep down. This behavior followed him well into early adulthood, where he continued to act first and reflect later, often sabotaging his own path.
His time in Havenridge prison marked the first turning point. While the experience didn’t immediately change him, it planted a seed. Forced into solitude and reflection, Ryoichi began to understand that his past mistakes didn’t absolve him of responsibility but neither did they define his worth. However, even after his release, much of his impulsive nature remained. He still leaned on instinct over intellect and emotion over reason, often repeating old patterns out of habit.
The real shift began when he realized that brute force and raw willpower weren’t enough to reclaim what he had lost, specifically, the stolen family heirloom. He came to a sobering truth, if he wanted to move forward, he had to grow not just as a fighter, but as a thinker. Determined to rise above the version of himself that had made so many painful errors, he enrolled at the University of Eldrath, a place he once would’ve mocked, to study, observe, and evolve.
Now, Ryoichi is calmer, wiser, and more introspective. Though his stubbornness hasn’t vanished, it’s no longer blinding. He listens more. He questions more. He fights with purpose, not pride. He no longer seeks validation from others, but instead tries to live by a personal code defined by experience, not ego. He understands that strength is not the absence of failure, but the ability to rise from it.
He still carries scars, both visible and unseen. He still has moments of self-doubt. But where there was once noise and reaction, there is now thought and intention. His philosophy has crystallized into something quiet but powerful. To those around him, Ryoichi appears grounded, sincere, and driven by something beyond glory. He mentors others not with lectures, but with action. He doesn’t preach, but he inspires. And while he may still joke, laugh, and fight with a fire in his chest, that fire is no longer wild, it’s focused.
Physical Description[]
Ryoichi Kanzaki possesses a lean but powerful build, shaped by years of rigorous training, hardship, and survival. His body is marked by numerous scars, each one a silent testament to battles fought and mistakes survived. Most striking among them is a deep scar across his left cheek, a scar that his father inflicted on him. His hair is black, thick, and untamed, falling wildly around his face with no sign of grooming or vanity. It frames a weathered face sharpened by time and experience. His beard and goatee, grown without concern for neatness, add to his rugged, almost feral appearance. The most unique feature of Ryoichi's appearance are his piercing yellow eyes—bright, almost glowing, and distinctly unnatural for a human
He wears tattered, weather-worn ronin robes, practical in design and devoid of ornament, but still unmistakably of Kirijiman origin. These clothes, while unassuming, speak of a cultural pride he carries quietly on his shoulders. Slung across his back is Seigetsu, his massive Odachi, a weapon as heavy and raw as the burden he carries. The sword, with its jagged edges and unrefined form, mirrors the man who wields it, scarred, imperfect, and utterly unbreakable.
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[]
Ryoichi as a child
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) during which 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 his father'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. His actions, driven by a reckless desire to spread fear and violence, were deemed high treason, sparking a fierce battle 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.
A badly injured Ryoichi as he watched his sister being killed
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 severed her head, killing her. 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[]
The night before his departure, Ryoichi quietly slipped into his father's temporary residence. The estate was shrouded in darkness, with only the faint rustling of leaves and the occasional chirp of insects breaking the silence. Knowing that the guards had grown complacent after the family's recent misfortunes, Ryoichi moved stealthily through the shadowed halls, his heart pounding with each cautious step.
He reached the small, dimly lit chamber where the Soul Cleaver was kept, resting unguarded on a high altar. As he approached, a palpable chill filled the air, emanating from the sword. The moment his fingers brushed the hilt, an icy shiver coursed through him, as if the sword were alive with a cold, malevolent energy. Faint whispers echoed in his mind, their words indistinct but filled with an unsettling presence, as though the blade harbored a dark power that sought to communicate with him.
Despite the eerie sensation, Ryoichi steeled himself. He knew that taking the Soul Cleaver would leave a glaring void, so he made a calculated decision: he left the sword’s ornate scabbard behind and instead placed the Odachi, that Elfred had given him, into it. This way, it would not be immediately apparent that the family heirloom was missing.
Ryoichi then returned home, where he carefully wrapped the Soul Cleaver in a thick layer of cloth, ensuring that the metal would not be exposed to the corrosive sea air during his journey. He also hoped that the wrapping would obscure the sword’s true identity, making it less likely to be recognized. The Soul Cleaver, now concealed in the scabbard of Ryoichi's old sword, was securely hidden from view, but its ominous presence still lingered in Ryoichi’s mind as he prepared for the uncertain path ahead.
Farewell and Departure[]
Early the next morning, just as the first light of dawn began to break over the horizon, Ryoichi made his way to the shore where his self-built boat was waiting. To his surprise, Elfred and his mother had already arrived before him. The boat, still glistening with morning dew, stood ready to carry him away from Kirjima, but the unexpected presence of his mother and Elfred momentarily unsettled him. As he approached, Elfred noticed the thick layer of cloth wrapped around the sword at Ryoichi's side. Curious and slightly concerned, Elfred questioned the unusual wrapping. Ryoichi, steadying his nerves, explained that the sword meant a great deal to him and that he wanted to protect it from the corrosive sea air to prevent it from rusting. In reality, this was a fabrication to hide the fact that the Soul Cleaver, which he had stolen the night before, was concealed within the scabbard of Ryoichi's old sword.
His mother, filled with both pride and sorrow, handed him a bundle of provisions and clothing, her hands trembling slightly as she passed them to him. She hoped these would keep him safe on his journey and held back tears as she looked at her son one last time, praying that he would one day return home.Elfred, too, expressed his deep respect for Ryoichi. He placed a firm hand on Ryoichi’s shoulder, silently conveying that it had been an honor to serve his family. There was a mutual understanding between them, a recognition of the path Ryoichi was about to take. With one final look at the two people who had shaped his life, Ryoichi boarded the boat. As he pushed off from the shore, the weight of the Soul Cleaver and the journey that he was about to embark on seemed to pull at his conscience, even as the horizon ahead beckoned with the promise of a new beginning
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[]
A 21 year old Ryoichi, during his time in Havenridge
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.