Hyoma Kunato
Hyoma Kunato |
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| Kanji: | 岐 兵馬 |
| Romaji | Kunato Hyōma |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | 21 |
| Birthday: | Unknown |
| Height: | Unknown |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Takeo Ootsuka |
| English: | No English Dub Yet |
Hyoma Kunato (岐兵馬, Kunato Hyōma), is a young boy from the Saenome clan, introduced as a central character in the Tsukumogami series. His primary job is to guide spirits, an assignment given to him because of his heritage in the Saenome clan. However, Hyoma harbors a deep hatred for spirits, making his duties uncomfortable and conflicting for him.
As a result of this intense hatred, Hyoma is sent to live at the Nagatsuki house, where he is forced to coexist with tsukumogami (spirits who inhabit objects) and their human master. His presence in this house marks the beginning of his forced integration into a world he despises, where he must navigate his complex feelings toward the supernatural beings that he is supposed to guide. Hyoma’s journey is one of personal growth, as he learns to confront his biases and gradually accept the world of spirits and tsukumogami.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Hyoma Kunato is originally from the Saenome clan, a family known for their ability to guide spirits. As a child, he was likely raised with a deep sense of responsibility to perform this sacred duty. However, Hyoma’s emotional conflict arises from his hatred of spirits, something that is not typical for someone tasked with guiding them. His feelings likely stem from past experiences or a deep-seated belief that spirits, and perhaps their influence, are inherently harmful or destructive.
Due to his strong hatred and refusal to fulfill his duties as a spirit guide, Hyoma is sent to the Nagatsuki house as a form of punishment or reformation. Here, he is surrounded by tsukumogami and their human master, people and entities he initially resents. This forced situation creates conflict within Hyoma as he has to reconcile his personal biases with his responsibilities.
The time spent at the Nagatsuki house becomes a turning point for Hyoma, as he learns that the world of spirits is not as simple as he once thought. His experiences at the Nagatsuki house lead him to reexamine his relationship with spirits and the role they play in the world.
Appearance
Hyoma Kunato is a young boy with a serious and stoic expression, reflecting his internal conflict and the burden of his duties. He has dark, sharp features, which give him a mature appearance beyond his years. His clothing is simple, though it often carries the mark of his clan in subtle details, hinting at his noble heritage.
Hyoma’s eyes are a notable feature; they carry the weight of his emotional struggle and the conflict he faces regarding his hatred of spirits. He is depicted with traditional Japanese attire, fitting for someone from a family with such spiritual responsibilities. However, as he spends more time at the Nagatsuki house, his expressions evolve, and subtle shifts in his appearance may reflect his growing acceptance and understanding of the spirits around him.
Personality
Hyoma Kunato’s personality is initially defined by his resentment and hatred toward spirits. He harbors a deep mistrust of the supernatural and finds the very idea of guiding spirits repugnant. His feelings of animosity toward spirits are likely influenced by past experiences or deep-rooted beliefs about the danger they pose.
Despite this bitter attitude, Hyoma is not a purely negative character. His resolve and determination are strong, especially when it comes to facing the difficult circumstances placed upon him. He is stubborn and independent, refusing to blindly accept the role he has been given. His tendency to push others away reflects his internal struggle, but as the story progresses, Hyoma begins to show signs of growth.
His forced time at the Nagatsuki house compels him to face his own biases and prejudices. Throughout his journey, Hyoma learns to interact with spirits in a more balanced and thoughtful way, recognizing that they are not inherently evil or malicious, and gradually begins to see the complexity of the spiritual world.
Role in the Story
The Hatred Within: Haunted by the murder of his siblings, Hyoma becomes obsessed with eliminating tsukumogami. His aggression leads to friction within the Saenome clan, and he is given one final chance to correct his path—by moving into the Nagatsuki household.
Life with the Nagatsuki Family: At the Nagatsuki home, Hyoma is surrounded by six tsukumogami who live peacefully alongside Botan, their human master. This environment forces Hyoma to confront his prejudices. Though initially hostile and mistrustful, he gradually begins to see their humanity and the nuances of spirit behavior.
A Path Toward Redemption: As the story unfolds, Hyoma grows more balanced and becomes a bridge between humans and tsukumogami. He must navigate conflicts with rogue spirits, internal clan politics, and his own emotional healing, all while protecting those he’s come to care about.
Relationships
Botan Nagatsuki: The human master of the tsukumogami household. At first, Hyoma treats her and her spirit companions with caution, but over time, he develops deep trust and respect for Botan. She becomes one of his most influential guides in overcoming his trauma.
Nagatsuki Household (Tsukumogami): Each spirit in the household challenges Hyoma’s assumptions. His relationships with them evolve from tension and mistrust to camaraderie and even friendship, symbolizing his growth and changing worldview.
Saenome Clan: Hyoma’s original home and training ground. Though he respects the clan’s ideals, he struggles with its more rigid expectations and his personal conflict with their peaceful methods.