ooc ; magicdraft app
PLAYER INFORMATIONNAME: Ashley
AGE: 20
JOURNAL: japwn
AIM/PLURK/EMAIL: AIM: shemurai | PLURK: nipponpon | EMAIL: answerisalwaysno@gmail.com
CURRENT CHARACTERS: N/A
CHARACTER INFORMATIONSERIES: Axis Powers Hetalia
NAME: Japan (Kiku Honda)
RACE: Country
AGE: It's listed as "unknown" but he's probably around 2,500+, and appears about 19.
CANON POINT: 1868
REFERENCES: Character & Country
GENDER: Male both physically and mentally.
APPEARANCE:
Here.
Japan's face can vary from blank and blocking to quite expressive. It all depends on how much he wants you to know what he's thinking. (Or... how shocking whatever you just said was.) His clothing changes depending on his activity. He'll wear formal clothes when going out, but if he's staying home he tends to not care for his appearance as much. And though he appears quite young, his body posture can sometimes hint at how much he feels like an old man. Strips have shown him to pant and huff in training, looking completely exhausted, but in times of danger he seems fine again, holding back attackers. This is due to his mindset at the time. If he's feeling like an old man, he'll act like one, but if he's too distracted to think about it, well... he's just fine. Ignore his complaints about his back later, he'll get over it.
PERSONALITY & HOUSE REQUESTS:
Japan is, to start with, a very quiet and modest character. He relies heavily on traditions and "old ways," and because of this mindset, comes to view himself as an old man. He will often look to the past longingly, or to the future dreadingly; a combination further accented by his canon point. Because he is from the very beginning of the Meiji era, it is known that he can learn quickly and is easily influenced, but it is also shown that he stubbornly resists these changes. There are points in canon where he can become angry at those who force him to change. While usually passive aggressive, he's capable of being blunt when necessary (despite normally being very vocal about his opinions against it). His anger, though, is something rare. There is one strip where Greece wants him to get mad on purpose, and when he finally does, it's so shocking that Greece calls Turkey (someone he never gets along with) to ask for a camera. His anger is said to be "the scariest," but we don't see much of it outside of him being angry at food prices, and some blunt comments towards nations like America.
He may appear stoic at first glance, with his vague responses and his "all of my answers mean no" attitude. However, along with anger, there are various other emotions that show themselves under certain circumstances. He's shy (he says this himself and claims it's part of bushido), hard-working, determined, and easily flustered. That last one is a key point. While certain things in his own culture will be weird to most, he finds them completely normal and will not react much. But these calm reactions are not the case when it comes to subjects like nudity, physical contact, and food (prices or salt). Yet, despite his flustered flailing at things like this, he is shown to have erotic woodcuts hidden between the other books in his possession. His acceptance of things like this on paper is completely different than in person. It's just another part of his contradictory character, layered and strict but sturdy in his personal rules on just what is acceptable.
Also, though he does view himself as an old man, there are many instances where he's almost childlike in nature. He's called naive in canon by fellow nations, and this probably comes from the fact that he can view certain things in a rather optimistic light. Actually, he often has a lot of internal dialogue where he assesses the situation in both a positive and negative light. He likes to see both sides of a situation, and will hold back on making decisions (or at least voicing them) as long as he can. This indecisiveness leads to strong attention on things around him, which is useful for his concern of presenting himself as politely as possible. He calls this sort of observantness "reading the atmosphere" and considers it a hobby, along with refraining from speaking. Another point of his childlike side is a big part of his character from only the previous year and backwards-- his blanket. He had been in "seclusion," which isn't him being closed off completely, but refusing trade from most countries. To represent this as a country, he would spend his days hiding under a blanket in his room, wincing at the slightest sunlight and overreacting if anyone merely uttered the word "open." Japan's a sort of contradiction in this contrast between maturity and naivete, but it's all part of the constant old-new clash that is his country.
Going along with this contradiction, Japan does not merely hide from the influence of outsiders. In fact, the time period I'll be taking him from deals a lot on how he tried his best to mimic other countries, learn from them, and create his own identity. During this time period, Japan actually would send people over to other countries to observe them, and then try to build off of that in order to further westernize itself. (As shown in the canon strips with France sneezing, and Japan immitating. It even goes further to show France blowing a kiss, and Japan attempting to do the same.) The country's actions itself are depicted quite well with Japan, who, though trying to fit in, longs for his old ways and goes home to quickly remove his tie and suit, and relax with his dog. (Usually followed by a comment on how he can't keep up with these youngsters.)
He's both very impressionable and very proud (to the point of being stubborn) of his own ways. Because of this, though his personality may seem strange or "weird" to others, he views it as... completely normal. This contradictory nature and depth to his personality flows through into the decision of which house would be best for him. Japan is truly a strong force behind a timid shield. His qualities may appear subtle at first, but there is a certain volume to various actions from him and this leads to him wavering between Slytherin and Gryffindor.
Though he displays the main traits of both houses, I believe he would be most fitting for Slytherin. The first trait listed under this house is traditionalism which happens to be the most important thing to Japan. Having just emerged from a time where he had been trying so hard to lock himself from the world and preserve his traditions and culture, Japan still clings to the ideas of tradition. With the quick changes and adaptations he is beginning to learn he has convinced himself that he will not lose tradition in the process, but improve himself in other ways. However, that being a bit of a lie to himself (as he does in fact lose certain traditions after modernization), it is also the cause of much hesitation in this transition from seclusion to modernizing. Should he change and adapt or stick to what he always has? It's the major question of this time period as well as Japan as a whole.
Immediately after traditionalism is the trait of resourcefulness, and this is one Japan has canonly shown multiple times. Whether it's finding fruit while stranded on an island or using a posterboard as a sword while fighting off alien versions of France, Japan has proven himself capable of making use of what's around him. It could even be said that he's used his resourcefulness in rather cunning ways. In pair with paying deep attention to himself and his surroundings, Japan often assesses the situation and makes subtle moves to stay on top. Take for example his strips with Russia around the Russo-Japanese war (which is just ~40 years in the future from this time point) where he hides in the ceiling of Germany's house to eavesdrop on conversation that could be potentially dangerous to him. Germany allying with Russia was bad news for him, after all! His dramatic acts don't end there. After he's fallen and revealed himself, he tries to give Russia treats that were made with "something that should not be in them". And while that idea fails miserably and Germany seems to get the bad end of the stick, it shows just how tricky Japan can get.
The last two traits go hand in hand for Japan, as what he holds most is an ambition for power. That definition of "power" is something that changes over time based on various wars and events, but the clear thing is that his ambition never falters, only adjusts its focus. (Of course, his ambition is something that can apply to many things!) While he was still staying with China, he spoke his first concern about the Westerners which China brushed off with a sigh and a subject change. Japan was visibly annoyed by this, going so far to mutter threatening things under his breath about it. The main thing though was his worry for the strength of the west. That slowly formed into a strong desire to become strong so as to protect himself. And this ambition led to him betraying even China to achieve this power. These strong feelings don't only show themselves in a dark light, however, as once again his time period comes into play. His agreement to modernize, though forced and hesitant, is something he faces and falls into with a certain determination. He's shaky at first, but with his willpower this is an era he can grow from and gain strength from. He's sure of that much.
Of course, being the complex person and nation that he is, Japan can also line up quite well with the traits of Gryffindor. Taking the most obvious trait first, Japan has displayed various acts of bravery, as well as the general mindset of it. In fact, this can be summarized by his common phrase "As a true Japanese man...!" and its various endings. The fact that he goes on without fear and even without the belief that he could possibly lose (because he's a true Japanese man!) is true bravery.
Being a "true Japanese man" comes with a code of honor, as well, which contains some of the main traits of this house as core values. Chivalry, for example, seems self explanitory in Japan. He follows bushido which is "the way of the sword" and a code of honor that is analogous to chivalry. The very first guideline of this code? Courage of course! Courage is usually considered a synonym of bravery, but it has been shown to differ in the way that courage includes fear and in a sense mindfulness. It's the decision to fight despite fearful consequences, which is just what Japan is doing in this time period. Adapting and modernizing does cause fear in him; fear of losing his traditions, losing himself, and losing power. But it's courage that keeps him moving forward with enough determination to turn it to his advantage.
And while daring is a strange word to connect at first thought to Japan, it applies in many startling ways. While he claims to be subtle at all things, there are times when he can be surprisingly blunt in words, practicing his English with phrases like "America is an idiot" and muttering to China that he's making him long for another invasion. The boldness doesn't end there. To see how truly daring Japan can be, it would take another look at the Russo-Japanese war strips, where Japan bakes those treats with bad ingredients, and leaves tacks on Russia's chair. (Russia's chair!! Who else would do that to Russia?) Or how about hiding in the ceiling to begin with? There's even the most obvious attack on China. He knocked on the door, unsheathed his sword, and attacked. Daring indeed!
As for selflessness, well... To be honest, Japan is a rather selfish person, only wanting to do things that interest or aid himself. He does, however, end up doing selfless seeming things thanks to his failure in communication skills. He does care for others, but his trying to be kind comes off as awkward and rigidly polite. He can manage to be selfless sometimes, but it's not a skill he's entirely mastered. He may always mean no, but that doesn't mean he can get that across quite well. Oops!
In the end, I'd be fine with him being placed in either house, but I do prefer Slytherin!
COMMUTER DETAILS: He will not be aligning with Voldemort, so it should stay normal.
POSITION: Student.
ABILITIES & POWERS:
As a country, Japan is stronger than humans in that his body can withstand time and stay young. There's little else that is improved upon, but he does represent the ideals and skills of his people, as well as a certain number of characteristics that make him who he is.
One area that he will have a certain talent in will be Occlumency. It's clear enough that Japan doesn't say what he means all of the time, and holds back many things. It's important in his culture to have this sort of behavior. If this isn't enough, there is canon (though a joke strip at most) showing Japan with what his "special technique" would be: regrettable thoughts. The idea that he can control his thoughts and hold them back or unleash them at will makes the most sense. I believe he'd also have a bit of an advantage in Transfiguration seeing that it is magic that "changes one object into another." This can easily represent his adaptable nature, and the various changes he has had to go through as a nation to deal with other countries and cultures.
He may have trouble in Potions classes, surprisingly. With all of the bright colors and strange smells, it doesn't matter how well Japan can follow instructions or cook: he won't want to take part in most potions activities. They don't look safe to drink, after all, and he's not sure how to react to a class like this to begin with. On top of that, he probably wouldn't be very confident in flying a broom. With his old man mentality, flying will seem terrifying above all.
WAND:
Cherry, 10 inches, phoenix feather (flexible)
Wood; Aside from the obvious that the Cherry wood is claimed to be something treasured in the school in Japan, one major trait stood out with this wood type.
"The Western wand-purchaser should dispel from their minds any notion that the pink blossom of the living tree makes for a frivolous or merely ornamental wand, for cherry wood often makes a wand that possesses truly lethal power..."
The fact that this will be a wand that appears harmless yet holds great strength is something that I believe reflects Japan quite well. As a small island nation of the East, Japan wasn't noticed by the Western world for quite some time. The time period I'm taking him from is where he begins to make his name, slowly revealing his power to the world.
Core; Not only is the phoenix (or hou-ou) an important symbol in Asia, but the qualities of this core also do well to represent Japan.
"Phoenix feathers are capable of the greatest range of magic, though they may take longer than either unicorn or dragon cores to reveal this."
A great range of magic, but slow revealing. It's not like Japan to make bold or immediate magic like the dragon heartstrings wands, or to be so steady and undeveloping like the unicorn hair. Instead, a core that can improve over time in order to show its true strength is far more fitting, and its range of magic is something that reflects Japan's adaptability and determination, as well.
"...the most independent and detached in the world."
To describe the phoenix, and it can also describe Japan as well. After all, he did just seclude for hundreds of years. On top of that, being a "lonely island nation," it's clear how well it reveals his nature.
Length; To start with, Japan is very short in height, seeming to be one of the shortest nations. That's not the only reason for his short-sided wand, however. As long wands are said to show "big" personalities with more showy magic, I thought that would be unfitting for Japan and stuck to a shorter size. Elegant and refined spell-casting is far more his type.
Flexibility; Quite simply, "flexible". Japan is very easy to influence and even manipulate, so it makes sense to choose a wand type that would reflect this. At the same time, it would be wrong to choose something too fluid, as Japan does have a solid core and a very firm stubbornness over certain things that cannot be budged. As it is, "flexible" seemed most fitting.
Strength; As both his wood and core are described as weilding a certain "power", I believe his wand would be especially good with the dark arts. Though it could have the potential to grow strong in any area Japan pursues or is good with, I believe the dark arts (and any offensive magic, really!) are something that would come the strongest, and the easiest.
MISC.: N/A
WRITING SAMPLESFIRST PERSON:
[Quill]
[This message appears in simple and legible handwriting. Formal, but not overly showy. Japan just has a few questions, and writing seems easier than speaking when he's so hesitant.]
I've heard of the library, but if it is acceptable to ask, what is this "restricted section" I have heard brief mention of? [And by brief mention he means eavesdropping in the halls, but no one needs to know that, right? He's just... curious. What sort of books could be restricted? Was it all magic, or...?]
I enjoy reading, so naturally I am interested in such things. If it could help my studies in any way, I would like that as well. [Another good reason this is Quill, or his sideglancing or even his slight tone change might be noticed.]
Thank you in advance.
THIRD PERSON:
As much as Japan tried his best to get into the class, Potions was a bit of a struggle. He currently sat quietly behind a certain bubbling formula, frowning hesitantly at the instructions and glancing carefully around the room at the other students. Maybe if he watched someone else do it, he could better understand how this was supposed to turn out. But right now, the bright green color and the extreme bubbling coming from the container seemed a bit too much.
It wasn't as if he didn't know the next step. It was clearly written in front of him, and the ingredients were at hand as well. He knew what to add, how much to add, and when to add it, but... Did he actually have to? It didn't seem very safe. What were the warning labels on this? It could go wrong so easily, and the entire purpose of the thing was very important: an antidote.
Sighing as if this were the most stressful decision of his life, he added in the next item. It hissed, which startled him a bit, but he shrunk at the stares he got from that and continued along, raising his wand to infuse the magic when necessary. As the liquid slowly formed to its final state, Japan began to realize his hesitation was a little too long. Was something wrong? It didn't look exactly like the picture.
"Ahh, such concentration is required, and yet the process is so startling..." He thought, frowning even more as he peered down at it. Still, it was better than last week's. He had let his thoughts get so lost and distracted that his "potion" had completely exploded. That hadn't been a pretty sight in the least. Another heavy sigh from Japan and he closed the book near him. Hopefully this wasn't anything that was going to be tested.
AGE: 20
JOURNAL: japwn
AIM/PLURK/EMAIL: AIM: shemurai | PLURK: nipponpon | EMAIL: answerisalwaysno@gmail.com
CURRENT CHARACTERS: N/A
CHARACTER INFORMATIONSERIES: Axis Powers Hetalia
NAME: Japan (Kiku Honda)
RACE: Country
AGE: It's listed as "unknown" but he's probably around 2,500+, and appears about 19.
CANON POINT: 1868
REFERENCES: Character & Country
GENDER: Male both physically and mentally.
APPEARANCE:
Here.
Japan's face can vary from blank and blocking to quite expressive. It all depends on how much he wants you to know what he's thinking. (Or... how shocking whatever you just said was.) His clothing changes depending on his activity. He'll wear formal clothes when going out, but if he's staying home he tends to not care for his appearance as much. And though he appears quite young, his body posture can sometimes hint at how much he feels like an old man. Strips have shown him to pant and huff in training, looking completely exhausted, but in times of danger he seems fine again, holding back attackers. This is due to his mindset at the time. If he's feeling like an old man, he'll act like one, but if he's too distracted to think about it, well... he's just fine. Ignore his complaints about his back later, he'll get over it.
PERSONALITY & HOUSE REQUESTS:
Japan is, to start with, a very quiet and modest character. He relies heavily on traditions and "old ways," and because of this mindset, comes to view himself as an old man. He will often look to the past longingly, or to the future dreadingly; a combination further accented by his canon point. Because he is from the very beginning of the Meiji era, it is known that he can learn quickly and is easily influenced, but it is also shown that he stubbornly resists these changes. There are points in canon where he can become angry at those who force him to change. While usually passive aggressive, he's capable of being blunt when necessary (despite normally being very vocal about his opinions against it). His anger, though, is something rare. There is one strip where Greece wants him to get mad on purpose, and when he finally does, it's so shocking that Greece calls Turkey (someone he never gets along with) to ask for a camera. His anger is said to be "the scariest," but we don't see much of it outside of him being angry at food prices, and some blunt comments towards nations like America.
He may appear stoic at first glance, with his vague responses and his "all of my answers mean no" attitude. However, along with anger, there are various other emotions that show themselves under certain circumstances. He's shy (he says this himself and claims it's part of bushido), hard-working, determined, and easily flustered. That last one is a key point. While certain things in his own culture will be weird to most, he finds them completely normal and will not react much. But these calm reactions are not the case when it comes to subjects like nudity, physical contact, and food (prices or salt). Yet, despite his flustered flailing at things like this, he is shown to have erotic woodcuts hidden between the other books in his possession. His acceptance of things like this on paper is completely different than in person. It's just another part of his contradictory character, layered and strict but sturdy in his personal rules on just what is acceptable.
Also, though he does view himself as an old man, there are many instances where he's almost childlike in nature. He's called naive in canon by fellow nations, and this probably comes from the fact that he can view certain things in a rather optimistic light. Actually, he often has a lot of internal dialogue where he assesses the situation in both a positive and negative light. He likes to see both sides of a situation, and will hold back on making decisions (or at least voicing them) as long as he can. This indecisiveness leads to strong attention on things around him, which is useful for his concern of presenting himself as politely as possible. He calls this sort of observantness "reading the atmosphere" and considers it a hobby, along with refraining from speaking. Another point of his childlike side is a big part of his character from only the previous year and backwards-- his blanket. He had been in "seclusion," which isn't him being closed off completely, but refusing trade from most countries. To represent this as a country, he would spend his days hiding under a blanket in his room, wincing at the slightest sunlight and overreacting if anyone merely uttered the word "open." Japan's a sort of contradiction in this contrast between maturity and naivete, but it's all part of the constant old-new clash that is his country.
Going along with this contradiction, Japan does not merely hide from the influence of outsiders. In fact, the time period I'll be taking him from deals a lot on how he tried his best to mimic other countries, learn from them, and create his own identity. During this time period, Japan actually would send people over to other countries to observe them, and then try to build off of that in order to further westernize itself. (As shown in the canon strips with France sneezing, and Japan immitating. It even goes further to show France blowing a kiss, and Japan attempting to do the same.) The country's actions itself are depicted quite well with Japan, who, though trying to fit in, longs for his old ways and goes home to quickly remove his tie and suit, and relax with his dog. (Usually followed by a comment on how he can't keep up with these youngsters.)
He's both very impressionable and very proud (to the point of being stubborn) of his own ways. Because of this, though his personality may seem strange or "weird" to others, he views it as... completely normal. This contradictory nature and depth to his personality flows through into the decision of which house would be best for him. Japan is truly a strong force behind a timid shield. His qualities may appear subtle at first, but there is a certain volume to various actions from him and this leads to him wavering between Slytherin and Gryffindor.
Though he displays the main traits of both houses, I believe he would be most fitting for Slytherin. The first trait listed under this house is traditionalism which happens to be the most important thing to Japan. Having just emerged from a time where he had been trying so hard to lock himself from the world and preserve his traditions and culture, Japan still clings to the ideas of tradition. With the quick changes and adaptations he is beginning to learn he has convinced himself that he will not lose tradition in the process, but improve himself in other ways. However, that being a bit of a lie to himself (as he does in fact lose certain traditions after modernization), it is also the cause of much hesitation in this transition from seclusion to modernizing. Should he change and adapt or stick to what he always has? It's the major question of this time period as well as Japan as a whole.
Immediately after traditionalism is the trait of resourcefulness, and this is one Japan has canonly shown multiple times. Whether it's finding fruit while stranded on an island or using a posterboard as a sword while fighting off alien versions of France, Japan has proven himself capable of making use of what's around him. It could even be said that he's used his resourcefulness in rather cunning ways. In pair with paying deep attention to himself and his surroundings, Japan often assesses the situation and makes subtle moves to stay on top. Take for example his strips with Russia around the Russo-Japanese war (which is just ~40 years in the future from this time point) where he hides in the ceiling of Germany's house to eavesdrop on conversation that could be potentially dangerous to him. Germany allying with Russia was bad news for him, after all! His dramatic acts don't end there. After he's fallen and revealed himself, he tries to give Russia treats that were made with "something that should not be in them". And while that idea fails miserably and Germany seems to get the bad end of the stick, it shows just how tricky Japan can get.
The last two traits go hand in hand for Japan, as what he holds most is an ambition for power. That definition of "power" is something that changes over time based on various wars and events, but the clear thing is that his ambition never falters, only adjusts its focus. (Of course, his ambition is something that can apply to many things!) While he was still staying with China, he spoke his first concern about the Westerners which China brushed off with a sigh and a subject change. Japan was visibly annoyed by this, going so far to mutter threatening things under his breath about it. The main thing though was his worry for the strength of the west. That slowly formed into a strong desire to become strong so as to protect himself. And this ambition led to him betraying even China to achieve this power. These strong feelings don't only show themselves in a dark light, however, as once again his time period comes into play. His agreement to modernize, though forced and hesitant, is something he faces and falls into with a certain determination. He's shaky at first, but with his willpower this is an era he can grow from and gain strength from. He's sure of that much.
Of course, being the complex person and nation that he is, Japan can also line up quite well with the traits of Gryffindor. Taking the most obvious trait first, Japan has displayed various acts of bravery, as well as the general mindset of it. In fact, this can be summarized by his common phrase "As a true Japanese man...!" and its various endings. The fact that he goes on without fear and even without the belief that he could possibly lose (because he's a true Japanese man!) is true bravery.
Being a "true Japanese man" comes with a code of honor, as well, which contains some of the main traits of this house as core values. Chivalry, for example, seems self explanitory in Japan. He follows bushido which is "the way of the sword" and a code of honor that is analogous to chivalry. The very first guideline of this code? Courage of course! Courage is usually considered a synonym of bravery, but it has been shown to differ in the way that courage includes fear and in a sense mindfulness. It's the decision to fight despite fearful consequences, which is just what Japan is doing in this time period. Adapting and modernizing does cause fear in him; fear of losing his traditions, losing himself, and losing power. But it's courage that keeps him moving forward with enough determination to turn it to his advantage.
And while daring is a strange word to connect at first thought to Japan, it applies in many startling ways. While he claims to be subtle at all things, there are times when he can be surprisingly blunt in words, practicing his English with phrases like "America is an idiot" and muttering to China that he's making him long for another invasion. The boldness doesn't end there. To see how truly daring Japan can be, it would take another look at the Russo-Japanese war strips, where Japan bakes those treats with bad ingredients, and leaves tacks on Russia's chair. (Russia's chair!! Who else would do that to Russia?) Or how about hiding in the ceiling to begin with? There's even the most obvious attack on China. He knocked on the door, unsheathed his sword, and attacked. Daring indeed!
As for selflessness, well... To be honest, Japan is a rather selfish person, only wanting to do things that interest or aid himself. He does, however, end up doing selfless seeming things thanks to his failure in communication skills. He does care for others, but his trying to be kind comes off as awkward and rigidly polite. He can manage to be selfless sometimes, but it's not a skill he's entirely mastered. He may always mean no, but that doesn't mean he can get that across quite well. Oops!
In the end, I'd be fine with him being placed in either house, but I do prefer Slytherin!
COMMUTER DETAILS: He will not be aligning with Voldemort, so it should stay normal.
POSITION: Student.
ABILITIES & POWERS:
As a country, Japan is stronger than humans in that his body can withstand time and stay young. There's little else that is improved upon, but he does represent the ideals and skills of his people, as well as a certain number of characteristics that make him who he is.
One area that he will have a certain talent in will be Occlumency. It's clear enough that Japan doesn't say what he means all of the time, and holds back many things. It's important in his culture to have this sort of behavior. If this isn't enough, there is canon (though a joke strip at most) showing Japan with what his "special technique" would be: regrettable thoughts. The idea that he can control his thoughts and hold them back or unleash them at will makes the most sense. I believe he'd also have a bit of an advantage in Transfiguration seeing that it is magic that "changes one object into another." This can easily represent his adaptable nature, and the various changes he has had to go through as a nation to deal with other countries and cultures.
He may have trouble in Potions classes, surprisingly. With all of the bright colors and strange smells, it doesn't matter how well Japan can follow instructions or cook: he won't want to take part in most potions activities. They don't look safe to drink, after all, and he's not sure how to react to a class like this to begin with. On top of that, he probably wouldn't be very confident in flying a broom. With his old man mentality, flying will seem terrifying above all.
WAND:
Cherry, 10 inches, phoenix feather (flexible)
Wood; Aside from the obvious that the Cherry wood is claimed to be something treasured in the school in Japan, one major trait stood out with this wood type.
"The Western wand-purchaser should dispel from their minds any notion that the pink blossom of the living tree makes for a frivolous or merely ornamental wand, for cherry wood often makes a wand that possesses truly lethal power..."
The fact that this will be a wand that appears harmless yet holds great strength is something that I believe reflects Japan quite well. As a small island nation of the East, Japan wasn't noticed by the Western world for quite some time. The time period I'm taking him from is where he begins to make his name, slowly revealing his power to the world.
Core; Not only is the phoenix (or hou-ou) an important symbol in Asia, but the qualities of this core also do well to represent Japan.
"Phoenix feathers are capable of the greatest range of magic, though they may take longer than either unicorn or dragon cores to reveal this."
A great range of magic, but slow revealing. It's not like Japan to make bold or immediate magic like the dragon heartstrings wands, or to be so steady and undeveloping like the unicorn hair. Instead, a core that can improve over time in order to show its true strength is far more fitting, and its range of magic is something that reflects Japan's adaptability and determination, as well.
"...the most independent and detached in the world."
To describe the phoenix, and it can also describe Japan as well. After all, he did just seclude for hundreds of years. On top of that, being a "lonely island nation," it's clear how well it reveals his nature.
Length; To start with, Japan is very short in height, seeming to be one of the shortest nations. That's not the only reason for his short-sided wand, however. As long wands are said to show "big" personalities with more showy magic, I thought that would be unfitting for Japan and stuck to a shorter size. Elegant and refined spell-casting is far more his type.
Flexibility; Quite simply, "flexible". Japan is very easy to influence and even manipulate, so it makes sense to choose a wand type that would reflect this. At the same time, it would be wrong to choose something too fluid, as Japan does have a solid core and a very firm stubbornness over certain things that cannot be budged. As it is, "flexible" seemed most fitting.
Strength; As both his wood and core are described as weilding a certain "power", I believe his wand would be especially good with the dark arts. Though it could have the potential to grow strong in any area Japan pursues or is good with, I believe the dark arts (and any offensive magic, really!) are something that would come the strongest, and the easiest.
MISC.: N/A
WRITING SAMPLESFIRST PERSON:
[Quill]
[This message appears in simple and legible handwriting. Formal, but not overly showy. Japan just has a few questions, and writing seems easier than speaking when he's so hesitant.]
I've heard of the library, but if it is acceptable to ask, what is this "restricted section" I have heard brief mention of? [And by brief mention he means eavesdropping in the halls, but no one needs to know that, right? He's just... curious. What sort of books could be restricted? Was it all magic, or...?]
I enjoy reading, so naturally I am interested in such things. If it could help my studies in any way, I would like that as well. [Another good reason this is Quill, or his sideglancing or even his slight tone change might be noticed.]
Thank you in advance.
THIRD PERSON:
As much as Japan tried his best to get into the class, Potions was a bit of a struggle. He currently sat quietly behind a certain bubbling formula, frowning hesitantly at the instructions and glancing carefully around the room at the other students. Maybe if he watched someone else do it, he could better understand how this was supposed to turn out. But right now, the bright green color and the extreme bubbling coming from the container seemed a bit too much.
It wasn't as if he didn't know the next step. It was clearly written in front of him, and the ingredients were at hand as well. He knew what to add, how much to add, and when to add it, but... Did he actually have to? It didn't seem very safe. What were the warning labels on this? It could go wrong so easily, and the entire purpose of the thing was very important: an antidote.
Sighing as if this were the most stressful decision of his life, he added in the next item. It hissed, which startled him a bit, but he shrunk at the stares he got from that and continued along, raising his wand to infuse the magic when necessary. As the liquid slowly formed to its final state, Japan began to realize his hesitation was a little too long. Was something wrong? It didn't look exactly like the picture.
"Ahh, such concentration is required, and yet the process is so startling..." He thought, frowning even more as he peered down at it. Still, it was better than last week's. He had let his thoughts get so lost and distracted that his "potion" had completely exploded. That hadn't been a pretty sight in the least. Another heavy sigh from Japan and he closed the book near him. Hopefully this wasn't anything that was going to be tested.