Rao's Forces

Lore & Background

Raoh establishes his empire by rejecting the secrecy of Hokuto Shinken, declaring that he will rule openly as Ken-Oh. Unlike other warlords who prey on the weak for survival, Raoh seeks to unify the fractured wasteland under his sole authority through force. He is supported by his brothers-in-training and various martial artists he challenges. Raoh's philosophy drives him to test every warrior he encounters, believing that only through such trials can a true successor emerge or be defeated.

In Their Own Story

Raoh's journey begins with the killing of master Ryuken after refusing his fists' sealing, marking the start of his warlord reign. He travels the wasteland challenging martial artists, including Kenshiro, leading to numerous clashes across the devastated landscape. The narrative describes a "long series of battles" where Raoh relentlessly pursues his goal of conquest. His arc culminates when Kenshiro finally emerges victorious; Raoh dies peacefully after this final confrontation, bringing an end to his campaign and concluding the first half of the story with the arrival of peace.

Reader's Guide

Raoh's faction operates as a dominant warlord army focused on global conquest. They serve as the primary antagonist force in the first half of the series, directly opposing Kenshiro's mission to protect the innocent. The group is defined by Raoh's refusal to follow Hokuto Shinken traditions and his desire to rule openly. Members include fellow Hokuto practitioners like Fudo and Mamiya, who align with Raoh's vision of strength-based order. Their activities span from challenging individual warriors to large-scale military campaigns across the desert wasteland.

Did You Know?

• Raoh delivered the final blow to their master Ryuken, who was already mortally wounded by Toki's actions, after refusing to let his fists be 'sealed' under Hokuto Shinken law.
• Raoh adopted the mantle of Ken-Oh (Fist King) to conquer the post-apocalyptic world as a warlord.
• Raoh dies standing after a fierce battle with Kenshiro, and the story continues with the Shura arc.
• Raoh is the eldest of Kenshiro's brothers-in-training and is described as the strongest among them.