Techniques

Saitou

Gatotsu (Mizoguchi Haiitou Ryuu) is the specialty of Saitou Hajime in Rurouni Kenshin. Gatotsu wasn't used by Saitou in the past, his specialty was a left handed sword thrust, but Watsuki decided to change it around for a boy's manga, but the Hiratsuke strike, the specialty of the Shinsengumi, was a real technique. The Gatotuse stance itself is done by holding the blade by the hilt in the left hand, and poising the right hand above the kisaki (tip) of the blade then lead off with the right foot. It's a refined stabbing technique, and has different forms of the technique for different situations.

Gatotsu Ishiki, (Gatotsu first stance), a straight forward attack, the neck, chest, shoulder, and head are the usual targets.

Gatotsu Nishiki, (Gatotsu second stance), Used from the air to the ground, cutting diagonally from above.

Gatotsu Sanshiki, (Gatotsu third stance), Anti-air move, used from ground to air, meant to intercept the opponent from above.

Gatotsu Zeroshiki, (Gatotsu zero stance), Gatotsu done at a point blank range, requiring no running start or visible leg power. Very powerful, managed to pin Usui to the wall.

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