Jabi
Jabi |
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| Kanji: | ジャビ |
| Romaji | Jabi |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | Unknown |
| Birthday: | Unknown |
| Height: | Unknown |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Shiro Saito |
| English: | David Novinski |
Jabi (ジャビ), is a supporting character in the anime and light novel series Sabikui Bisco (Rust-Eater Bisco). A seasoned and wise Mushroom Keeper, Jabi serves as a mentor and father figure to Bisco Akaboshi, the series’ main protagonist. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of the Mushroom Keeper’s art, Jabi plays a crucial role in guiding Bisco both in combat and philosophy, particularly in the early parts of the story.
His loyalty, wit, and resilience make him an invaluable ally as Bisco begins his journey to find the mythical Rust-Eater mushroom, which is said to cure the deadly Rusting disease plaguing their world.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Jabi is a long-time Mushroom Keeper, belonging to a group of individuals shunned by society due to a widespread misconception that mushrooms cause the deadly Rusting. In truth, Mushroom Keepers use fungi to purify and heal the environment, and Jabi is among the few who truly understands this deeper purpose.
Before the events of the main story, Jabi raised and trained Bisco Akaboshi, passing on his knowledge, skills, and values. Their bond is one of deep trust and respect, built over years of shared survival in a post-apocalyptic Japan ravaged by corruption, desertification, and disease.
When Jabi contracts Rusting himself, it becomes one of the central motivations for Bisco’s quest to find the elusive Sabikui (Rust-Eater) mushroom and save his mentor’s life.
Appearance
Jabi is an elderly man with a lean build, marked by age and experience. He has a long white beard, sharp eyes, and wears the distinct garb of a Mushroom Keeper, including rugged traveling clothes, a hood or cloak, and gear suited for wilderness survival. Despite his age and physical decline due to Rusting, Jabi carries himself with a commanding presence.
His worn appearance and persistent coughing are visible signs of his affliction, but they do little to diminish the sharp intellect and strength behind his eyes.
Personality
Jabi is wise, sarcastic, and fiercely principled. He often uses humor and blunt honesty to communicate, especially with Bisco, but behind his jabs lies deep affection and a protective spirit. As a mentor, he is both demanding and supportive, pushing Bisco to become strong not just in body, but in conviction.
Despite society’s hatred of Mushroom Keepers, Jabi holds firm to his beliefs, choosing to heal rather than harm, and instilling those ideals into Bisco. He faces death with dignity and calm, never losing sight of the bigger picture.
Role in the Story
Mentor and Motivation: Jabi’s relationship with Bisco is foundational to the series. As Bisco’s teacher and surrogate father, Jabi influences the young protagonist’s ideals, goals, and combat style. His Rusting illness sets the plot in motion, with Bisco seeking the Rust-Eater to cure him.
Confrontation and Sacrifice: Jabi risks his life to protect Bisco from authorities, buying him time to escape and begin his journey. Though initially thought to be fatally ill or dead, Jabi survives and later reappears, continuing to support the cause from the shadows.
Wisdom in Crisis: Even while physically weakened, Jabi remains a tactician and morale-booster, offering advice during critical moments. His presence acts as a grounding force for Bisco and other characters, especially when faced with moral dilemmas or fear of failure.
Relationships
Bisco Akaboshi: Jabi is Bisco’s mentor, teacher, and father figure. He raised Bisco from a young age, teaching him the way of the Mushroom Keeper and shaping his worldview. Their bond is central to the narrative, and Bisco’s unwavering determination to save Jabi demonstrates the depth of their connection.
Pawoo and Milo Nekoyanagi: While not as directly involved with them, Jabi respects Milo’s intelligence and Pawoo’s bravery, later recognizing them as valuable allies. His guidance helps influence the way the group works together.