Noriko Kamomebata
Noriko Kamomebata |
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| Kanji: | 鴎端 のり子 |
| Romaji | Kamomebata Noriko |
| Statistics | |
| Birthplace | Unknown |
| Age: | 17 |
| Birthday: | March 3rd |
| Height: | 149 cm |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Shiori Izawa |
| English: | Brittney Karbowski |
Noriko Kamomebata (鴎端 のり子, Kamomebata Noriko), also known as Moka, is a supporting character in Scum’s Wish (Kuzu no Honkai). She is Mugi Awaya’s childhood friend, and her playful and affectionate personality is reflected in the way she refers to him as “prince.” Moka’s presence in the story adds both lighthearted moments and emotional complexity, particularly as she interacts with Mugi, whose complicated love life and emotional struggles serve as a focal point in the narrative.
Though Moka is not a central figure in Scum’s Wish, her role as Mugi’s childhood friend provides important context for his backstory and adds depth to his character. Her relationship with Mugi serves as a reminder of the deep emotional connections people form during childhood, even as their paths diverge in the complex world of love and longing.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Noriko was born into a wealthy and sheltered family, raised with traditional values and an air of refinement. From an early age, she formed a close bond with Mugi Awaya, who treated her kindly and earned her admiration. As they grew older, Moka’s feelings deepened, but she clung to an idealized image of Mugi as a princely figure who would someday return her affection.
Her privileged upbringing, combined with her obsession with Mugi, caused Moka to view relationships through a fairytale lens, leaving her emotionally unprepared for the complex and often messy realities of love and desire that unfold around her.
Appearance
Moka is known for her graceful and elegant appearance, fitting her wealthy background. She has long, light brown hair, often worn neatly, and soft brown eyes that give her a gentle expression. Moka typically dresses in feminine and refined clothing, often favoring skirts, blouses, and accessories that highlight her ladylike image.
Her posture and demeanor exude composure, but subtle shifts in her expression reveal her inner emotional struggles, particularly when dealing with Mugi or witnessing his involvement with others.
Personality
Moka is polite, soft-spoken, and deeply idealistic. She prides herself on being well-mannered and pure-hearted, often trying to embody what she believes a “proper” young lady should be. However, beneath her refined surface lies a fragile, emotionally dependent heart, driven by her infatuation with Mugi.
She views Mugi through rose-tinted glasses, projecting her fantasies onto him and ignoring the complexities of his true self. This idealization isolates her emotionally, as she struggles to connect with others or accept the imperfections of those she admires. Over time, Moka is forced to confront the painful gap between her expectations and reality, leading to significant emotional growth.
Role in the Story
The Childhood Friend and Admirer: Moka’s role begins as Mugi’s childhood friend, clinging to the fantasy that he will one day see her as more than a friend. She inserts herself into his life, offering unwavering devotion while ignoring signs of his disinterest or emotional distance.
Witness to Mugi’s True Self: As Moka becomes aware of Mugi’s complicated and unhealthy relationships particularly with Hanabi Yasuraoka she experiences profound heartbreak. Her journey centers on letting go of the illusion she has clung to for so long and realizing that her image of Mugi was more about her own desires than about who he truly is.
Emotional Growth: By the end of her arc, Moka gains the strength to step back from Mugi, acknowledging that holding onto her idealized version of him is only causing her pain. This marks her transition from a girl trapped in fantasy to a young woman willing to face reality, no matter how painful.
Relationships
Mugi Awaya: The object of Moka’s affection and her self-proclaimed “prince.” Though she longs for his love, Mugi does not return her feelings. Moka’s idealization of him blinds her to his flaws and contributes to her emotional isolation.
Hanabi Yasuraoka: Moka views Hanabi as a rival for Mugi’s attention. Though she initially resents Hanabi, her interactions with her ultimately help Moka see the truth about Mugi and herself.
Other Classmates: Moka keeps her distance from most of her peers, preferring to focus on Mugi. This isolation reinforces her attachment to her fantasy of him.