( the bop is fair. it's part of the rules, and izou won't make a fuss beyond looking disgruntled about the touch.

but there's a lack of light in his eye for what's mentioned after. )

You don't need to see someone's first move if you strike 'em from behind. Take them unawares. If it's quick, and clean, there's nothing that follows aside from their last throes. Still, you got a point. Watchin' the opponent to see what they use ain't a bad idea in the least. 'Specially when you can copy them, like me, long as they're usin' a blade.

( this isn't a war, so there's no need to keep that sort of information secret. if anything, he sounds amused about it. )