Tamahiko Shima
Tamahiko Shima |
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| Kanji: | 志磨 珠彦 |
| Romaji | Shima Tamahiko |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | 25 |
| Birthday: | September 1, 1905 |
| Height: | 180cm |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Yūsuke Kobayashi |
| English: | Ben Balmaceda |
Tamahiko Shima (志磨 珠彦, Shima Tamahiko), later known as Tamahiko Tachibana, is one of the main characters in the Taisho Otome Fairy Tale series. He is the second son of the wealthy and calculating Shima family in Tokyo. Despite his privileged background, Tamahiko’s life is marked by personal tragedy and emotional turmoil. His journey of self-discovery and healing begins when he moves to the countryside after a family-related incident that leaves him physically and emotionally scarred.
Tamahiko is a complex character, initially seen as cold and distant due to his past experiences. However, his life takes a turn when he meets the series’ heroine, Yuzuki Tachibana, whose kindness and devotion gradually help him open up and overcome the emotional barriers he has built around himself. Tamahiko’s development throughout the story is one of self-acceptance, love, and transformation.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Tamahiko Shima comes from a prestigious and wealthy family in Tokyo, the Shima family, known for their influence and calculating nature. As the second son, Tamahiko was often overlooked in favor of his older sibling, which led to feelings of inadequacy and neglect. His relationship with his family is strained, and his life takes a tragic turn when an accident leaves him physically impaired and emotionally scarred. This event isolates him from his family and leads him to withdraw from the world.
In a bid to remove him from the family’s affairs, Tamahiko is sent to the countryside, where he is meant to live a quieter life away from the pressures of his family. It is here that he meets Yuzuki Tachibana, a kind-hearted young woman who helps Tamahiko heal and learn to love again. Throughout the series, Tamahiko’s character evolves from a distant and emotionally closed-off young man to someone who begins to accept love and the possibility of happiness.
Appearance
Tamahiko Shima has a striking yet somber appearance that reflects his internal struggles. He has dark, somewhat tousled hair and sharp features that convey a sense of seriousness. His appearance, while handsome, carries a certain sadness, especially in the early parts of the series, where his physical and emotional scars are evident. His posture and demeanor often give him an air of aloofness, mirroring the emotional walls he has built around himself.
When he later adopts the name Tamahiko Tachibana, his appearance becomes slightly softer, reflecting the changes in his character as he begins to open up emotionally. His clothing typically consists of traditional Japanese attire, reflecting his status in society and his family’s influence. As Tamahiko’s character progresses, his outward appearance also becomes more expressive, paralleling his emotional growth.
Personality
Tamahiko Shima starts the series as a cold, reserved, and somewhat cynical individual. His traumatic past, including the neglect from his family and the accident that scarred him, leads him to become emotionally distant and self-reliant. He has a tendency to push people away and feels deeply isolated, struggling to connect with others or accept kindness.
However, as the story progresses and he grows closer to Yuzuki, Tamahiko begins to soften. He learns to trust others again and allows himself to open up emotionally. His development is marked by an internal battle between his past fears and his growing capacity for love and connection. Despite his initial emotional detachment, Tamahiko is not without compassion, and his kindness becomes more evident as he allows himself to form deeper bonds with those around him.
Tamahiko is also a character who values loyalty and responsibility, often taking on a protective role once he forms relationships. While he initially struggles with expressing his feelings, his genuine care for others shines through in his actions. As he heals, he becomes more open, learning to embrace love and happiness despite the scars from his past.
Role in the Story
Exile and Despair: Tamahiko is sent away by his father after his injury, effectively exiled from the Shima household. He lives alone in a villa, harboring resentment and depression, believing his life has no purpose due to his disability and rejection.
Yuzuki’s Arrival: The turning point comes when Yuzuki Tachibana, a cheerful and hardworking girl, arrives at his home. She has been “bought” to become his bride, but her sincere affection and dedication begin to heal Tamahiko’s emotional wounds. Her presence challenges his worldview, and slowly, his icy exterior begins to melt.
Healing and Growth: As their relationship deepens, Tamahiko learns to care for others, contribute to the local community, and take pride in himself again. He even becomes a guardian figure to other children and begins tutoring. Over time, he chooses to cast off the Shima name and adopts the name Tamahiko Tachibana, symbolizing his new life and values.
Relationships
Yuzuki Tachibana: Yuzuki is Tamahiko’s fiancée and the heart of his emotional recovery. Her unwavering support, love, and cheerful disposition become the foundation for Tamahiko’s rebirth. Their relationship evolves into a deep, mutual love, culminating in a strong and healthy partnership.
Tamako Shima: Tamahiko’s younger sister. Initially cold and arrogant, Tamako later seeks out Tamahiko, and their bond gradually reforms. She becomes an important figure in his life, offering him a chance to reconnect with a part of his family.
Ryō Atsumi: A delinquent-turned-friend who becomes close to Tamahiko and Yuzuki. Ryō’s presence reinforces Tamahiko’s sense of community and friendship.