Tojo warriors are invariably trained in all forms of combat, but display a preference for one and dedicate themselves to it. However, all know better than to discard the lessons taught by the other forms and their influence on one another.
The First Form
This form covers basic combat techniques, and is more taught as a foundation which can be relied upon when the specifics of another form fail. Masters of this form do exist though, as generalists and all-rounders capable of reacting to changing battlefield conditions with cool grace. As the foundation of combat, it is also known as the
Tojo Form.
The Second Form
Born from a need for the clan to handle disputes, the Second Form emphasises the use of a single-handed weapon along with balance and complicated footwork to outsmart an opponent. The focus tends to be towards disarming a foe rather than killing, ideal for
Tojo to use amongst themselves without thinning their numbers. Rarely referred to as the
Uematsu form.
The Third Form
Often explained as the ultimate defense, the Third Form sacrifices attacking to defend oneself and their allies, making it a powerful supporting force when properly utilised. It is said that masters of this form can even deflect arrows with their weapons, though most scoff at this and say they would prefer a shield. Sometimes known as the
Omi Form.
The Fourth Form
An evolution of the Second Form into a more aggressive and lethal style, with a focus on acrobatics and manoeuvrability to get to an opponent’s unguarded side. Developed to counter the heavier armour worn by the
Omi and
Go-Ryu, it is sometimes known as
Saejima Form for it’s similarity to their hit-and-run tactics.
The Fifth Form
Sometimes, the last man standing on the battlefield is the one who protected himself best. But he still must vanquish his enemies – and so the Fifth grew from the Third. Whilst not as focused on defense, the Fifth form champions patience just as much, and punishing any attack with a counter-strike. Rarely known as the
Hakuho Form, for the high clan’s capability to shrug off any insult and repay it in kind.
The Sixth Form
Widely recognised as the Yomei Form, this combat style greatly emphasies the use of a bow at any and all ranges. Developed by the
Tojo to effectively fight the
Go-Ryu who were always out of range of their melee specialists, using the observed tricks and traditions of the famous hunter clan.
The Seventh Form
The height of aggression, some would call the masters of this form berserkers. They cultivate an air of mystery and fear, focusing on psychological combat as much as physical might. Impressive displays and intimidating behaviours are worked into the style to demoralise opponents. Also known as the
Go-Ryu Form.
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