Chowa-ryu (cho-wa-rue)

Chowa-ryu (調和流) is a fictional comprehensive martial system developed in Saharin. It is derivative of Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto-ryu, which is the ancestor of many Japanese martial arts. Chowa-ryu translates to 'harmonic flow.'
Originally, Chowa-ryu focused on kenjutsu (swordsmanship) and kyujutsu (archery) and included jujutsu (grappling), bojutsu (staff), hojojutsu (rope restraints), naginatajutsu (a naginata is similar to a glaive, a polearm), shurikenjutsu (throwing stars), and sojutsu (spear). Hojutsu (firearms) replaced kyujutsu when matchlock rifles became widespread in Saharin.
With westernization and modernization, Chowa-ryu nearly became extinct but was revived in the early 1900s. It became particularly popular among those who resisted the conforming influence of the Japanese Occupation, those who wished to maintain an independent Saharinese identity. Since Chowa-ryu is the child Japanese martial arts, uses similar terminology and an untrained person would not know the difference, the subversion was not typically recognized unless practitioners actively used the skills to attack or riot. Chowa-ryu dojos became a popular activity and a place to speak openly about discontents and plan for the future.
Modern dojos and tournaments typically focus on jujutsu (grappling), but weapons training, particularly kenjutsu (swordsmanship), is still considered a vital part of Chowa-ryu. While black belts can be earned for jujutsu alone, Chowa-ryu masters must be proficient in multiple disciplines.
Hojutsu (firearms) also remains an important piece of Chowa-ryu. The swift adoption of firearms by Saharinese samurai was a vital factor in the establishment of Saharin as an independent nation rather than a land traded between China and Russia. This is why Chowa-ryu dojos can be licensed to have firing ranges, posses certain firearms and teach hojutsu. Typically, hojutsu focuses on recreation matchlocks and similar weapons. However, in Saharin, it is permitted to own weapons appropriate to hunting or protection from wildlife with proper licensing (or home address). Gun safety and marksmanship courses are therefore considered essential and taught by licensed Chowa-ryu dojos as well.