Haomaru

The name, 'Haomaru' is simply and utterly legendary. Although Haomaru's past is shady, as is his past before he wandered into Kunio, his deeds have been scribed throughout Kunian history, and he is widely known as the second best swordsman that the Samurai have ever known.

Haomaru was a wanderer, roaming when he finally did set foot on Shonan land. As the Shi were friendly, he was accepted immediately, and although he originally planned to move on, he took a liking to the Shi as well, and stayed there.

He was widely known as friendly, wise, yet loud man, who enjoyed drinking immensely. All wondered about the katana that he carried, yet noone bothered to ask.

His skill would be seen when Iga Ninja attacked the village that he was residing at.

It was an autumn afternoon, the fateful day that would change the life of he who was known as Haomaru. 12 Iga Ninja, feeling reckless, had decided to go on one of their 'routine' ransacks. Pilliging and plundering as they pleased.?As their luck would be, they would chose the wrong village.

As soon as the first scream filled the air, Haomaru had run out into the streets, his weapon drawn for the first time in years, for he had long before sheathed it in hopes of peace. Of course it was a dream that would never be fulfilled. By the next day, word of his feat against 12 of the ninja had spread throughout the region. Kibagami Genjuro had heard these rumors. Genjuro, who had been strong of pride, of course felt the need to see the prowess of the man that who was talked about so. He went to the village, and challenged Haomaru.

On a small island not very far off, the two battled. By sunset, Genjuro was left standing, the victor. Although Haomaru had lost, he had also found a kindred spirit in the strong soul that was Kibagami Genjuro, and the two quickly became blood brothers.

Word of Haomaru's feat soon reached The Iga as well, and Hattori Hanzo would also challenge Haomaru. The two would both leave, the fight left without a victor. Not long after, the great war would begin.

Haomaru bore the markings of a leader, and eventually it was he who amassed the samurai, guiding them against the waves that were the Iga. At his side, his confident and best friend, Genjuro fought just as furiously, although he would fall. With the death of Genjuro, Haomaru lost all will to fight, and soon, the Shi, who had managed some degree of resistance, also were wore down. He also raised Genjuro's children.

By the time that the brothers Shi did return, there were only a handful of people living in a small village in the outskirts of Shonan. By this time, Haomaru was an old man.

He would eventually die of natural causes.