Genkaku

Genkaku (ゲンカク, Genkaku) is a minor character in Suikoden II. Genkaku is a war hero of the City-State of Jowston who was exiled after refusing to duel his friend, Han Cunningham.

History
"My friend and I seal our thoughts here. We deeply regret that we could not make them one."

- Han & Genkaku

Genkaku was the adoptive father of the hero and Nanami and was once the bearer of the Bright Shield Rune.

Genkaku was a renowned war hero during the conflict between the Highland Army and the City-State of Jowston in the year 428. He gained prominence within the State Army after leading a successful raid on a Highland supply tent, providing crucial time for the City-State to recover, beginning the Great Offensive.

Instrumental in aiding the Winged Horde's migration from Tinto Principality to Two River City after their lands were seized for strip-mining, Genkaku earned the appreciation of the Winged Horde. However, his growing fame and the mayor of Muse City, Darell's jealousy led to strained relations between them.

During the war, Genkaku found himself facing his hometown friend, Han Cunningham, who served as an enemy commander. Despite the conflict, their friendship remained intact, and they even shared drinks together between their respective camps. Both men realized the senselessness of the war and hatched a plan for a peace treaty that garnered wide approval, except from Darell.

To settle the conflict, a duel was proposed between champions from each side. Genkaku and Han were chosen as champions, but during the duel, Genkaku refused to fight his friend. This decision was initially met with anger, but it was later revealed that Darell had poisoned Genkaku's sword, intending to frame him for Han's murder if he had won. Genkaku was exiled, bearing the false label of a traitor.

After leaving the City-State of Jowston, Genkaku settled in the Highland Kingdom, where he established a dojo. There, he adopted two orphans, the hero and Nanami, and they formed a close-knit family. He trained both of them and was also a mentor to Jowy Atreides. He passed away peacefully in the year SY 458 from an illness, seemingly content with the growth and development of his two adoptive children.

The mystery surrounding Genkaku's refusal to duel Han remained concealed until after his death. Anabelle, Darell's daughter and successor as mayor of Muse, expressed regret that the city could not atone for its sins against Genkaku. His adoptive son would later come to possess the Bright Shield Rune and lead the New State Army, earning his reputation, in part, as Genkaku's son.