Hanzo

Hanzō(半蔵) stands as the first swordmaster in his lineage of minute pondlancers. These elusive creatures make their home along the serene edges of small ponds and streams in Japan's Ogasawara subtropical moist forest. Due to their small stature, humans often overlook them, adding to their mysterious nature. Living seemingly peaceful lives, they tend to their bonsai, gather nectar from lotus flowers, fish for juvenile fish or shirasu, and diligently practice their sword skills. However, there is a lesser-known aspect of their species that adds intrigue.

From an early age, a curious collecting instinct takes hold of the pondlancers. They develop an urge to gather the heads of other species, much like art enthusiasts seeking one of each kind. Starting with smaller insects, they gradually progress to larger specimens. They repurpose their victims' wings, crafting daggers at first and gradually refining their skills to create swords and katanas. Within their community, the number of heads one has collected determines their place in the communal structure, while the quality of their sword serves as a symbol of their capabilities.

At the pinnacle of his dynasty, Hanzo wields a blade forged from the wings of a dragonfly, known as katsumushi or the winning bug. This swift-flying predator holds great cultural significance for the pondlancers. Its representation embodies qualities of agility, determination, and victory. The dragonfly's wings, known for their strength and sharpness, are highly sought-after for crafting the finest katanas. Among the stories told, the tale of Hanzo ambushing the largest dragonfly of the season, engaging in a mid-air wrestle, and crashing into one of their oldest bonsai remains a beloved bedtime story.