Kannōteki na Jin do
Developed by the late Grandmaster Joichiro, an infamous swordsman from Nagxia: This style mixes traditional samurai techniques garnished with several other cultural and martial influences, tied together with a distinct set of codes and ideals different from Hingan Bushido.
Welcome to the dojo: the place you've always been.
NOTE: The 'present day' is 1577.
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SPOILER WARNING!
Everything below will contain key spoilers to Grim's story!
Furthermore, keep in mind that your character wouldn't be privy to this knowledge without being told IC first.If you'd like to continue interacting with Grim 'spoiler-free':
I'd stick with the tabs above....if your curiosity is piqued, however, do feel free to venture below...
Updated: December 29 2025
About Kannōteki
As is outlined in the small instructional tome (...more of a manifesto) concerning its philosophy:かんおうてきなじんど
“The practitioner (or, ‘Kannōteki-ka’) of Kannōteki na Jin do strives to liberate oneself from the confusion inherent in each Being: The Spirit, The Corporeal, and Their Mind (rather, “Memory”). The three parts of each living force are often trained separately from one another in all schools – but some aspects are neglected entirely. Our path seeks to tie each together in the sensuous harmony of Love and Death: the two co-dependent truths in Life, those steeped in Changes.As would be the same in Bushido, Kannōteki na Jin do relies on harnessing a Kannōteki-ka’s ki to be channeled through their blade. This, however, is where most similarities end in our practice: our ideals are rooted not in extraneous pursuits and protecting lords, but those of recognizing the tangible around us. Specifically, samurai are often taught to be somewhat chaste individuals, both emotionally and physically – a severe blockage of kenki that would prove essential to awakening one’s control and understanding of their Being. And as such, a Kannōteki-ka carries but one blade: the Katana. The practice of seppuku forbidden under our sun and moon – the act is of extreme cowardice; once again, the old ways succumbing to weakness, lacking a fortuitous Self, and neglecting the unification with Changes!Kannōteki na Jin do pulls from the traditions (previously considered lost... – mostly likely omitted) of Yanxian meditation and swordsplay – as well as grappling and striking techniques learned from the steppe. And it is from my. . .research into these techniques, in those encounters upon the steppe, that I’ve re-included [redacted] breathing, developed techniques to fight from every angle, and honed one’s full body and will to entangle or redirect their opponent – that we would liberate our enemy and show them the Truth in their merciful defeat, bringing an awakening in them of the Changes.May each of our actions align with what is around us, and while a Kannōteki-ka would push themselves as much as they could in Love – there is a dedicated amount of control and respect for Another Being while on that pursuit. Therefore, one shall not enact the taking of another’s Love – either it be their Spirit, Body, or Memory. If one would, they would fail at that true dance required to harness one’s power in Reality. And on the other hand, a Kannōteki-ka would strive to not enact bringing Death to another – unless it were deemed by the Kami’s will, and shown to the Kannōteki-ka within Changes.”
-- The Grandmaster Joichiro, Ul’dahn Quicksands, in the Sixth Astral of 1520
Learn Kannōteki
Dojo Syngeti
Mateus, The Mists, Ward 27, Plot 53
Join Sensei Grim at his dojo, nestled within the halls of Clan Volante.After a complementary first session, you will be assigned the proper instructor tailed (sic?) to your specific set of skills... and personality.Will you flow with the Changes? Or succumb to Chaos?
"Simpler Times"
in the Fifth Umbral of 1542.
Be patient, breathe. That is the first lesson....because I still have to write this memory down.
Kannōteki-ka
Revealed Cast of Practioners, Young and Old
Ranks (or, 'Dan') from highest to lowest:
Grandmaster
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Godan
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Yondan
Jun'yondan
Sandan
Jun'sandan
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Nidan
Shodan
The Little Death: Joichiro
Grandmaster
(Born: Nagxia, 1478 - Died: Ul'dah, 1568)Kicked out of his first dojo after only a few months of training, Joichiro would go on to become one of Hingashi's best kept secrets - literally. Those who knew of him remember his loud personality and towering physique; combined with his peculiar fashion sense, "Jo" stuck out like a sore thumb. And at the center of these secrets lie a few Hingan patriarch's broken egos.Much to the 'encouragement' of Hingan nobles, he'd decide to move West, settling down in the city of Ul'dah: a location much more fitting for his temperament. Bringing with him his first student, Jo would go onto teach three other talented pupils. Spending his days adventuring, meeting new peoples, and establishing some semblance of a novel martial arts lineage, his journey suddenly took a grim turn.After living a full life, Jo's health quickly began to decline in his penultimate year. He'd have two goals. The first: Make sure his life's legacy lives on in Kannōteki, creating a unified code of laws,
and appointing his first... three students as the heads of the school.His second would be less noble. Not one to give up the bit, he'd want his bits to be the last thing to give in when ringing in his 91st birthday- the first day of the New Year. However, it's said that Jo had started his celebrations a week prior, and succumb to a heart attack moments before the clock would turn over to midnight of the First Astral.May the Kami ever guide his spirit.
The Star Pupil: Jurei
Godan
(Born: Kugane, 1504 - Present?)A young high-born Hingan, aged seven, would be at the center of a kidnapping plot between warring Houses. Waiting for the black-cloaked mercenaries at the front gates stands a towering Roegadyn Samurai, recently appointed to the boy's House. The samurai eggs them on to challenge him all at once. In a matter of seconds, the three men would fall, and the young boy would scurry off to his quarters once more - dreaming of becoming a samurai himself one day.Much to his parents delight, the boy would begin training with the well-proven Samurai. In a matter of a year, he'd be considered by the Sekiseigumi to be taken under their wing. The political connections his family would receive would be great, if he'd go down this path. This wasn't to the boys liking, however - knowing after a few lessons with the established outfit that the rules laid forth were too constricting, leaving him unsure of what to do.And at the same time, his preferred teacher and House's protector would find himself at the center of the boy's father's ego. The Samurai would invite the boy for one last meeting, knowing their training would have to reach its end. After the first few cups of sake for his rushed graduation, the boy would passionately declare his independence from his family.Deciding he'd rather live a life of his own, the boy journeyed West with the Samurai known as Joichiro, and took on a new name for himself: Jurei. Dedicating himself to his training, he'd become Jo's pride and joy (it's still funny to think Jo never fathered any kids of his own...I shouldn't write that in).For a time he was considered the successor of Jo, even up until the Grandmaster's untimely end. However, overtime, Jurei was under the scrutiny of the other surviving Godan. He'd lose himself to the cup over the years, never getting over a series of tragic events. But worse, he never made up for training a misled pupil - one that'd threaten to end Kannoteki's legacy before it'd have the chance to begin.
The Spirit: Gohtmoera “Gomu” Moensyn
Yondan
(Born: Ul'dah, 1502 - Died: The Aerslaent, 1566???)[ This entry is written haphazardly, with several lines crossed out and rewritten. ]
[ A note at the top reads: ]
SHITTY, ROUGH DRAFT. DO. NOT. PUBLISH!!!!!From what I heard of Sensei Gomu before we started our training, he used to be a much different person. Apparently, he wasn't always so attached to other women... people like he was with Sunni - someone who I was initially wary of changing Sensei for the worse. I feared I was going to lose the instructor that not only saved my life, but had taught me how best to take down the same type of vile men he found me with - both with my sword, and with my mind.But, Sunni sensed he was neglecting his duties with me, and ended up actually urging him to press on with our studies (with haste even? I was such a brat toward her too).Before Sunni came along, Sensei Gomu and Sensei Jurei were inseparable. The two young men met shortly after Jo came to Eorzea, recruiting Gomu into the school, getting him off the streets. Even if Sensei's family were set to be a good influence on him - clearly it wasn't working - and it ended up being that Jurei kept him from running with the wrong crowds ever since their youth.As best as he could, at least.It took me a long time to forgive Jurei for this, and I never knew that when he turned a cold shoulder to Sensei before he left Eorzea that it was his last resort. I hate to admit that I don't have the details wasn't told the details, but this time Gomu had apparently really gotten into some deep shit rough waters. It was the worst time for it, but tough love was all Jurei could give him at that point. The old drunk still hasn't told me everything that happened... But, I can't blame him any longer - at least when it concerns Sensei.this isn't even about Sensei anymore, what are you writing??At least that's what I thought: One day I'd get to see Sensei again, look him in the eye, and ask him what happened. But no, of all the tales I've listened to on my journeys, when I stumbled upon met with Jurei last, I didn't want to believe what I had heard. I couldn't, it's not even probable - that my beloved Sensei would be taken down by a measly pack of mercenaries... both him and Sunni. No amount of my screaming shaking kicking his ass attempts at waking him up after he drunkenly passed out worked. I'd rather not see his face again anyway.Gods, please... guide him back to me... back.
The Earth: Bertram Yngvildr
Godan
(Born: Ala Mhigo, Ca. 1495 - Present)Not much is known about Sensei Bertram's background before meeting Grandmaster Jo.It might come as a surprise, given that Bertram is the oldest of the Godan, but he's spent the least amount of time training with the Grandmaster, seemingly winning his approval quicker than any of his previous students.Jo and "Bert" always were seen as friendly with each other. And while Jurei and Sensei Utreaux have often spoken about him, nothing is entirely confirmed. On the surface, Sensei Bert is a good man, and an impenetrable power - a testament to his devoted training with Jo. Therefore most of the others tend to go along with Jo's blessing of making him Godan before his passing.But beneath his soft-spoken demeanor lies a shaky alibi - could be that's just a side-affect of that snarling expression frozen on his face though.
The Noble: Utreaux Zoufont
Godan
(Born: Ishguard, 1517 - Present)Sensei Utreaux is considered the de facto Head of Kannōteki presently. If it weren't for his own missing fellow Godan, Bert growing more eccentric in his old age... he admits from time to time that he'd rather live out his days as the 'third chair' of the bunch. But, Utreaux would be called to step into a role he'd been prepared for since he was a boy.And yet, his original role would never come to be. He'd have a unique background compared to the average Kannōteki: born into a noble house of Ishguard, his early life would be extremely comfortable. Receiving stellar education as a young Elezen, as he grew older, he'd begin to pick up the sword - being the eldest son of his family, he would be molded to take upon the helm of the House one day.Despite their family having lived in Ishguard for several generations, their Duskwright blood would be brought into question. His father brought to trial - if it could even be called one - and was found guilty of treason. Citing some forged documents by his ancestors, his father would be put to death on the spot. His mother tried to gather her sons to flee, but it was only Utreaux who'd manage to break free the grasp of the Temple Knights chasing after them. He'd never return to Ishguard again. He said he can remember the screams of his family all to well anyway."There'd be not a reason to tread back to the echoing slate filled with the cries of m'kin. Other, vast lands and peoples would be worth more saving than that gods-forsaken see."...Upon running out into the cold of Coerthas, he'd come across a trio of wandering Samurai that'd take him under their wing. As with many others, the rest is history.While he might not have the brute strength of Sensei Bert, or the talent to create novel techniques like Jurei, Utreaux would boast the most storied knowledge of each skill in Kannoteki. To his credit however, he wasn't entirely a 'master of none' - quite the contrary. It only comes as a surprise then that he's failed all of his pupils - easily securing a record to never be broken in the lineage.That is, until I started training with him after Gomu left.
The Future: Uso Moshi
Jun'yondan
(Born: Urth's Gift, 15?? - Present)Uso wouldn't be the one to tell you, but they’re considered to be Kannōteki’s rising star!Their previous sensei compared them to a young Jurei, and often spoke on them holding more latent potential than Nikushimi. Highly skilled, an unbreakable respect for the Ethics, and they recently broke the record for adding the most techniques to the Kannōteki library - even surpassing Jurei and the Grandmaster himself!They’d be a mixture of the heavens: her mother was a high official of her Keeper tribe, and father a previous Nunh – raising quite a peculiar individual. Incredibly agreeable, making it easy to make friends, yet they’d be quick to scurry in the presence of more than two people. She'd not have the energy to put up with too many others talking. Many who meet her would recall that their words left them shifting their perspective and meaning on a number of matters for days after their chat - coming to wondrous realizations they’d never think of before! An endearingly warm humility would keep her from taking on a job as a “life coach” – however, she’s finally considering to look for an apprentice. Not for the gil, but because her Sensei kept preaching, “best way to learn is to teach.”As if telling anyone about your hidden moves has ever won somebody a fight...But her start as a Sensei would have to wait. Voted by the highest (active) Dan to be put to a special test: She'd be offered the opportunity to trial for Yondan, a chance not extended to another since the passing of the Grandmaster. The Godan would assign for her three tasks:1) Make contact with as many lost Kannoteki ranked Nidan and higher,
2) Report any word back about the whereabouts of the missing Godan, and
3) End the life of Nikushimi Mazoku.
The Fall: Nikushimi Mazoku
Former Jun'sandan
(Born: The Azim Steppe?, 1536 - Present)EXPELLED: HIGHLY DANGEROUS. KILL ON SIGHT. - Godan Utreaux, Bertram, and JureiFound in the dead of night tied to a tree, a forsaken Xaela boy at the age of ten would be found by a drunken swordsman wandering the steppe. After he’s freed, his body would drop to the ground in exhaustion. The swordsman reaches for his jar of sake, taking another big swig. The man approaches the boy, and instead of offering a hand to get up, he’d pass him the jug, “...You Tumet sure got some st- strange rituals…” With mud on his horns, and his soft pink eyes glistening with tears, he’d turn his head to look at the man, grasping the bottle.The boy without a name would travel with the swordsman – abandoning his tribe as they would abandon him. Under his guardianship, and so that he’d never be put in such a circumstance if they’d depart, the man would teach him the way of the blade. And soon a young man they’d become. An elegant dance would develop in his technique. What started as a path down drinking had been tempered and honed into a targeted focus. After six years with the swordsman, the boy would depart – heading toward that focus.He’d return to find his tribe many moons later. The ritual had finally been complete, having broke free from the tree in their right of passage many years ago. While the young man would finally have a name, the tribe would be lucky to get away with the numbers they’d have. What generations had been stunted and lost from his equally cruel return. Re-entering society, under the cover of night, he’d be stopped by a group of thugs looking to steal his blade. Snickering back at them, he’d hold onto the hilt, speaking with an insidious tone, “What an honor. You lot would be the first to taste the blade of Nikushimi Mazoku!”...at least that's how'd he want me to tell his story. The truth is, he's a piece of shit.I will be your end, Niku. The Kami bless me with the opportunity to enact my revenge justice.
The Ghost: Grim Syngeti?
Nidan?
(Born: No clue... maybe 1543? - Present?)There isn't much to go off of about this guy other than the word of a drunken old man.At any rate, I'm writing what I know now down...
Apparently he's going to kill Niku?
After two years of training?
"...T-trust me, don't look at his eyes." He'd relay to me before belching, ick.Jurei, truly, has lost his damn mind. I'll look at anyone I damn well please.
I'm not the one sending my pupils to their death anyway - hm, maybe I should start teaching?[ Amongst the notes scribbled below: -Look for an assistant for all these bookish tasks... ]
Revealed Associates of the Way
The Sight: Straliswys “Sunni” Sunnwyn
Cherished Friend of the School
(Born: Limsa Lominsa, 1508 - ...Died: The Aerslaent...,1566...)I... can't think about this sh anymore.
Tome of Kannōteki Techniques
Open-Hand
At the start of a Kannōteki-ka’s journey, they would not be trained with a katana until mastering the striking and grappling techniques to serve as a base. After the introduction is made and a blade put in their hand, each technique would unfold its purpose to be used in the same striking and blocking movements (including a few grappling techniques). Contrary to its name, the use of closed fists would also be employed, notably, the Half-ilm Punch (pictured below).
Wu Wei
The traditional fighting stance of a Kannōteki-ka, one would stand gently yet firmly in place – allowing themselves to either riposte or attack with blinding speed and power. Any encounter might end in one clean cut: therefore, it is pointless to employ flashy techniques or the use of several strikes to find that one true blow.
Kama
Not every Kannōteki-ka would be equally proficient in this stance, save for the physically inclined. The user would hold the blade in a reverse grip, allowing them to attack and defend while along their forearm – much training is done fighting with your back to your opponent as well to master this seemingly eccentric technique. But, it is not for show, but to be a well-rounded warrior – literally – and deadly from any angle.
To Learn More Techniques:Please visit our Find a Sensei page to undertake your journey,
learn our secrets, and unleash your true potential.