Orfeo Masayoshi's Questionnaire

The blind swordsman's house, also serving as his family's dojo, is a beautiful traditional Japanese-style home nestled in a tranquil part of Argentina. The house features sliding shoji doors, tatami mat flooring, and wooden beams that evoke a sense of timeless elegance. The main living area opens to a serene garden with a koi pond, cherry blossom trees, and meticulously pruned bonsai, creating a peaceful atmosphere perfect for meditation and training. The dojo, a spacious hall with polished wooden floors and wall racks displaying an array of katana and bokken, is connected to the house. Paper lanterns cast a soft glow in the evenings, and a stone path leads to a torii gate at the entrance. The family's financial stability is evident in the well-maintained property and the subtle yet tasteful traditional decor.

The blind swordsman's ambition to regain his sight is fueled by a deep-seated rebellion against fate and the gods themselves. Denied the gift of vision, he channels his frustration and determination into mastering kenjutsu, believing that his skill and unwavering willpower can defy the limitations imposed upon him. His quest becomes a spiritual journey, seeking ancient, forbidden techniques and mythical artifacts rumored to restore sight. This ambition drives him to confront powerful forces, both mortal and divine, as he refuses to accept his blindness as an unchangeable destiny. His pursuit is not just about seeing the world again but asserting his autonomy against the cruel whims of fate, proving that even the gods cannot dictate his path.

The most defining event of Orfeo's life occurred the day before he lost his sight forever, when he was a young child. It was a bright spring afternoon, and he spent the day in the dojo’s garden, captivated by the vibrant colors surrounding him. He marveled at the deep pink of the cherry blossoms, the lush green of the meticulously pruned bonsai trees, and the shimmering blue of the koi pond. The world seemed like a living painting, each hue more vivid and beautiful than the last.

His heart swelled with a pure, childlike infatuation for the colors, each one a piece of magic that filled him with joy and wonder. The golden sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting playful shadows on the ground, and he danced in their patterns, laughing. That evening, as the sun set, painting the sky in brilliant oranges and purples, he felt a deep sense of peace and contentment.

As night fell, a festival began, and fireworks lit up the sky. The vivid explosions of red, green, and gold against the deep, dark night were mesmerizing. Yet, amidst the beauty, he felt a strange sense of dread, an inexplicable fear that this beauty was fleeting. The stark contrast between the brilliant fireworks and the enveloping darkness seemed to foreshadow an imminent loss. He clung to the images, trying to memorize every detail, every color, as if sensing that he might never see them again.

1. Father: Emilio Masayoshi

Description: Emilio Masayoshi is a jovial and warm-hearted Argentinian man who embraced the Japanese culture after marrying his wife. He manages the family’s import-export business, specializing in traditional Japanese goods and martial arts equipment. Emilio is known for his infectious laughter and positive outlook on life, often serving as a source of encouragement and joy for his family. Despite his easygoing nature, he is deeply committed to preserving the family’s cultural heritage and supporting his son’s ambitions. His love for his family and dedication to their dojo are unwavering, providing a strong emotional foundation for the blind swordsman.

2. Mother: Aiko Masayoshi

Description: Aiko Masayoshi is a skilled Japanese swordswoman hailing from a long-established samurai family. She brought the Masayoshi name into the family and has dedicated her life to mastering and teaching kenjutsu. Aiko is a woman of discipline and grace, revered in the dojo for her formidable skills and deep understanding of the martial arts. She is a nurturing yet strict mother, instilling in her son the values of honor, perseverance, and resilience. Her teachings and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping the swordsman’s character and ambitions. Aiko’s presence is a constant reminder of their rich heritage and the strength that comes from embracing it.

3. Friend: Rodrigo "Rigo" Nakamura

Description: Rodrigo Nakamura, known as Rigo, is a close friend and fellow martial artist. The son of Japanese immigrants, Rigo grew up alongside the blind swordsman and trained at the dojo under Aiko’s guidance. Rigo is fiercely loyal and possesses a sharp intellect, often assisting the swordsman in strategizing and navigating challenges. His calm demeanor and analytical mind complement the swordsman’s fiery determination. Although Rigo does not share the same ambition to regain sight, he respects and supports his friend’s quest, providing valuable companionship and insight. Rigo’s unwavering friendship and strategic thinking make him an indispensable ally in the swordsman’s journey.

The blind swordsman's childhood was a blend of cultural richness and rigorous discipline. Growing up in a household that honored both Argentinian warmth and Japanese tradition, he was constantly surrounded by the values of honor, respect, and perseverance. His parents, Emilio and Aiko Masayoshi, played pivotal roles in shaping his early years.

Parents

• Emilio Masayoshi: Emilio was a loving and jovial father, always bringing laughter and joy into the home. He cherished family time and made sure his son felt supported and loved. Emilio’s optimism and warmth provided a strong emotional foundation, balancing the strictness that came with their martial arts training.
• Aiko Masayoshi: Aiko was a disciplined and graceful mother, dedicated to her craft and her family. She instilled in her son the importance of mastering kenjutsu and embracing their samurai heritage. Aiko’s teachings were rigorous, but her nurturing nature ensured that her son understood the value of resilience and honor. She was a pillar of strength, inspiring him to push beyond his limits.

Education and Social Life

School Attendance

• School: The swordsman attended a local school where he was introduced to a more diverse cultural environment. While he excelled academically, particularly in subjects that required focus and discipline, fitting in socially was a different matter.

Social Fit

• Challenges: The swordsman often felt like an outsider due to his unique upbringing and intense training regimen. His peers found his dedication to martial arts unusual, and his strict adherence to the values instilled by his mother sometimes made it difficult for him to relate to other children. His blindness, which occurred during his early childhood, further isolated him, as many children did not know how to interact with him.
• Friendships: Despite these challenges, he formed a close bond with Rodrigo "Rigo" Nakamura, a fellow martial artist and classmate. Rigo’s loyalty and shared cultural background provided a sense of belonging and camaraderie that he didn’t find elsewhere.

The swordsman’s first love was a delicate and poignant affair, forever etched into his memory as a bittersweet chapter of his youth. Her name was Hanae, a graceful and intelligent girl who attended the same school. She had a gentle demeanor and a captivating smile that could brighten any room. Hanae was known for her kindness and empathy, qualities that drew the swordsman to her despite his growing internal battles.

Their connection began with simple exchanges—shared conversations about literature, fleeting smiles, and the occasional walk home from school. He admired her deeply, cherishing every moment spent in her presence. However, as his blindness gradually deepened and his focus shifted towards mastering kenjutsu and fighting against the destiny imposed upon him, he became increasingly distant.

The onset of his blindness marked a significant turning point, creating a growing emotional chasm between them. His obsession with overcoming his limitations and his isolation due to his condition made him feel unworthy of Hanae’s affection. The more he dedicated himself to his training and the fight against fate, the more he withdrew from her, unable to bridge the gap between his struggle and his feelings.

The swordsman’s worst fears are deeply rooted in his personal struggles and his quest for mastery. His greatest fear is the possibility of never regaining his sight, which represents not just the loss of physical vision but also the failure of his rebellion against fate. The thought of living in eternal darkness, without the chance to witness the vivid world he once cherished, haunts him relentlessly.

Another profound fear is the idea of becoming a burden to those he cares about, particularly his parents. He dreads the possibility of his relentless pursuit of sight causing them undue hardship or emotional suffering, as their support and sacrifices are central to his journey.

Additionally, he fears losing his sense of identity and purpose. His entire life has been defined by his training and his struggle against his blindness. The thought of failing to achieve his goals and being left without direction or meaning fills him with dread.

Finally, there is an underlying fear of confronting the gods or supernatural forces he believes are controlling his fate. He worries that challenging these entities might lead to an even greater personal catastrophe or the loss of what remains of his humanity and sanity in the process.

The swordsman’s most prized possession is a finely crafted katana known as “Kageyama,” which translates to “Shadow Mountain.” This katana is not just a weapon but a symbol of his heritage, discipline, and unyielding quest for mastery.

Description: Kageyama is an elegant sword with a hilt wrapped in dark, intricately braided silk, and a guard adorned with delicate engravings of ancient symbols. The blade itself is forged from rare, high-quality steel with a subtle, ethereal shimmer that reflects the light with a ghostly allure. The katana’s blade is exceptionally sharp and has been meticulously honed to perfection, embodying both aesthetic beauty and deadly precision.

Significance:

1. Heritage: The katana was a gift from his mother, Aiko Masayoshi, passed down through generations of her samurai lineage. It represents the deep connection to his family’s martial tradition and their unwavering commitment to the art of kenjutsu.

2. Mastery: Kageyama is also a testament to his own journey and skill. Its craftsmanship and balance reflect the countless hours of training and discipline he has invested. The katana has become an extension of himself, embodying his struggle against his blindness and his relentless pursuit of perfection.

3. Emotional Value: Beyond its physical attributes, Kageyama holds immense sentimental value. It carries the memories of his mother’s teachings and the legacy of his ancestors, making it a constant source of inspiration and motivation.

4. Symbol of Rebellion: The katana symbolizes his defiance against fate. It serves as a tangible representation of his resolve to reclaim his sight and master his destiny, reinforcing his determination every time he wields it.

Kageyama is not just a weapon but a cherished artifact of his life’s work and personal battles, embodying both his past and his aspirations for the future.

Aside from his relentless fight against fate, the biggest problem in the swordsman's life right now is the significant strain on his relationship with his family. His obsessive pursuit of regaining his sight and mastering kenjutsu has led him to spend long hours training and researching forbidden techniques, often neglecting his personal relationships and emotional well-being. This intense focus has created emotional distance between him and his parents, particularly his mother, Aiko, causing unspoken tensions within the family. Additionally, his withdrawal into solitude has limited his ability to form meaningful connections and maintain friendships, exacerbating his feelings of loneliness. The physical and mental toll of his rigorous regimen is evident, leaving him frequently exhausted and doubtful, further complicating his already arduous journey. These issues, coupled with his fight against fate, weave a complex web of challenges that threaten both his quest and his well-being. A A A A A A A

My typical morning begins in the stillness before dawn. I wake to the gentle chime of my alarm, my senses immediately attuned to the world around me. I rise from my futon, feeling the cool wooden floor beneath my feet, and make my way to the dojo within our home. The smell of incense and the faint echoes of past training sessions greet me as I enter.

I start with meditation, sitting cross-legged on the tatami mat, focusing on my breathing. Each inhale and exhale grounds me, centering my mind and sharpening my awareness. Afterward, I perform a series of stretching exercises, feeling the familiar pull of my muscles as they wake up.

After training, I join my family for breakfast. The aroma of freshly cooked rice and miso soup fills the air, and the warmth of my father's laughter and my mother's quiet strength surrounds me. We share a meal, discussing the day ahead and finding solace in each other's presence.

First, I would begin by taking a long, relaxing shower, allowing the water to clear my mind and invigorate my senses. After drying off, I'd carefully groom myself, ensuring my hair is neatly styled and my face is clean-shaven.

Next, I would choose my outfit. I'd opt for traditional Japanese attire, selecting a finely crafted kimono that reflects both my heritage and the significance of the occasion. The kimono would be a deep, rich color, perhaps navy or black, adorned with subtle patterns that give it an air of elegance. I would also wear a hakama, the wide-legged trousers, and an obi, a sash tied around my waist.

Once dressed, I'd take extra care to ensure everything is perfectly in place. The process of dressing would be deliberate and methodical, taking approximately an hour to ensure I achieve the desired appearance.

I would finish by donning my family crest, a symbol of honor and pride, and making sure my senses are attuned to the environment. Feeling prepared and confident, I would then be ready to step out, knowing that I am presenting the best version of myself, rooted in tradition and personal pride.

Orfeo Masayoshi would most likely prefer solitude, choosing to spend the day in quiet reflection rather than celebration. He might visit a tranquil secluded spot, perhaps deep in a forest or near a tranquil river, where he can meditate on his past and future, contemplating his journey and his ongoing struggle against fate. Orfeo would bring Kamigoroshi with him, using the day to train and deepen his connection with the sword. The solitude and the presence of nature would allow him to sharpen his skills and his resolve, treating the day as a solemn ritual rather than a festive occasion.