Genbu

Genbu is methodical, calculating and convinced that intelligent preparation can determine the outcome of a fight. He studies how an opponent attacks before committing himself fully, looking for patterns that can be exploited.

He is less impulsive than Byakko and less dependent on a single specialized talent than some of his fellow Sū-shin. His preferred advantage comes from understanding what an enemy intends to do and arranging his own movements accordingly.

Genbu nevertheless underestimates opponents whose apparent simplicity conceals combat experience. Sanosuke's fighting may look crude, but years of dangerous battles have made him considerably more adaptable than Genbu initially assumes.

Genbu is a skilled martial artist who fights with a six-section staff. Its articulated construction allows the weapon to change direction unpredictably and gives him both reach and flexibility.

His principal strength is tactical analysis. Genbu observes an opponent's movements and constructs strategies based on expected reactions, attempting to remain several steps ahead during combat.

Against Sanosuke, he seeks to neutralize the destructive power of Futae no Kiwami rather than meet it directly. The strategy fails because Sanosuke recognizes what Genbu is attempting and adapts his own attacks, demonstrating that instinctive-looking combat does not mean an absence of tactical thought.

Genbu accompanies Heishin and the other Sū-shin during the final confrontation with Enishi's organization. The four bodyguards are deployed when Kenshin's allies arrive on the island.

Genbu is matched against Sanosuke. He initially regards the brawler's uncomplicated style as easier to analyze than the techniques used by more formal martial artists.

Sanosuke overturns that assumption by responding intelligently to Genbu's calculations. Rather than behaving exactly as predicted, he changes his approach and uses his experience from previous battles to break through Genbu's strategy, ultimately defeating him.

Woo Heishin is Genbu's employer and the man whom he protects as part of the Sū-shin.

Seiryuu, Suzaku and Byakko are Genbu's fellow Sū-shin, each specializing in a different approach to combat.

Sanosuke Sagara becomes Genbu's opponent during the island battle. Genbu initially believes Sanosuke's fighting style will be easy to predict but discovers that Sanosuke's extensive combat experience allows him to adapt beyond those calculations.

Enishi Yukishiro heads the organization around which the island conflict develops, although Genbu's personal allegiance is to Heishin.