Genshu

Genshu (ゲンシュウ, Genshuu) is a character in Suikoden II. Genshu is a wandering swordsman who lent his strength to the New State Army.

Foolish Sibling
Genshu was a swordsman born into the warrior caste in his homeland, along with his younger brother Tesshu. In their village, they were known as "The Wise and Foolish Siblings," with Tesshu being recognized as the more talented and humble of the two, while Genshu's obsession with swords and relentless pursuit of victory earned him a reputation for recklessness.

Driven by an inferiority complex, Genshu left his home village to seek strength through life-and-death duels, leaving a trail of defeated opponents behind. Even when opponents refused to duel, Genshu was known to force the matter.

His path took a turn when Tesshu, disguised, challenged and lost to Genshu before revealing his identity. The duel left Genshu wounded but also opened his eyes to the ruthless killer he had become. Distraught and wandering, he ended up in Ling Hua Town during the time of the Gate Rune War, where he trained Liu Mei in swordplay to seek revenge for her father's murder.

However, Genshu's life changed when Liu Mei spared her foe despite Genshu's urging to finish him off. Her act reminded him of his brother's plea for peace. From that moment, Genshu kept his sword sheathed.

Wise Swordsman
"Your strength also has been forged through hard battle. I would be pleased to walk along the same path as you."

- Genshu

Though he kept his sword sheathed, Genshu also kept it sharpened, remaining a swordsman at heart. During the Dunan Unification War, he encountered the leader of the New State Army in Coronet Town and and found they had a shared ideal due to the hero's well-maintained weapon.

Resolving to follow the path of the sword once more, he would join the New State Army. Though he had become a quiet man who meditated often, Genshu maintained his passion for swords. He developed a particular fondness for the Star Dragon Sword, almost worshipping it, and enjoyed discussing famous swords with Shin.

After the war, Genshu returned to his wandering life, and his current whereabouts remain unknown. Despite resuming the way of the sword, he vowed not to spill unnecessary blood again.

Trivia

 * Genshu comes from the same "certain country" as Hazuki.