Xena Fujibayashi: The Messenger of Death

Kunoichi operated as infiltrators, spies, and assassins. They spent time in enemy houses, reported secrets, and undermined rival houses by any means necessary. Kunoichi could use their gender to their advantage because women were underestimated as warriors. This made it easier for them to get closer to their targets by posing as maids, geisha, servants, and priestesses. In some cases, they were taken on as concubines and mistresses, giving them unparalleled access to all their marks. If they were exposed, the kunoichi employed confusion tactics such as shedding their kimono and screaming loudly. Misdirection and deceit were all part of an average day. Kunoichi were taught how to use a variety of deadly weapons. This ranged from tessen (steel fans), which could be hidden in plain sight, to blades and short katanas. Yet the most popular weapon of choice for kunoichi were the neko-te, razor-sharp metal claws attached to leather straps. Ranging between one to three inches, the claws could tear at a target’s skin. The neko-te could also be dipped in poison to cause a quicker death.