Obu Satomei is a middle-aged, plump, bald-headed man who directly oversees the training. His apparent age and rotundity are a lie; he's an old warhorse who frequently leads his students through the obstacle course runs (or he lies in wait to ambush unwary students along the way). Gruff, laconic, and harsh, he's quick to discipline poor performance with a blow from the bamboo staff he carries with him. He's a good teacher, if quick-tempered; those who pay close attention to what little he says can learn a lot.