Denshōsha (伝承者), also referred to as keishōsha (継承者), are interchangeable terms used to designate the successor of a martial arts school. Hokuto Shinken follows the code of Isshi Sōden (father to son) which means this title has greater importance, since there can only be one successor for each generation. This law also applies to Souther's Nanto Hōō Ken, whereby the new successor must kill his master to complete his training.