Shikobo/Itto KAGEITO

Species: Tengu/Human in disguise
Nationality: Japan
Occupation: Yamabushi/Former CEO of Itto Electronics and presumed deceased leader of the Itto Clan

The general knowledge of the well known Itto Kageito is that he dies of an unknown cause.  Truth is, he faked his own death.  He was ashamed over what his son, Itto KAGEKUMA is doing that he fled to the mountains.  There he assumed the role of the simple-minded Tengu Yamabushi known as Shikobo.  As Shikobo, he infiltrated his own Clan and became his son’s top swordsman without his knowledge.

The purpose behind this is gradually revealed throughout the series: Since he can’t invoke any change from within the clan anymore, he looked out for anyone capable for ousting his son from outside the clan.  When he heard of the Seven Sword’s return, he sought them out as Shikobo and challenged them to single combat to test their skills.  It was purely a test, they rarely go to a concise finish, much less involve any Finishers.

When the time is right, and that he’s sure that they will help him, he will reveal his true identity to the Knights in a dramatic fashion, which will just about equal the drama involved in the eventual clash between father and son.