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Keiki

Keiki (景麒) is the kirin of Kei and its Saiho, serving as the sacred protector and advisor to the ruler of the Kingdom of Kei in The Twelve Kingdoms. Like all kirin, Keiki abhors violence, favoring peaceful resolutions and harmony. Though he appears stoic, quiet, and unemotional, he is deeply loyal and caring, particularly toward Youko Nakajima and Taiki.

As a kirin, Keiki has the divine ability to select Kei’s rightful ruler, a responsibility that weighs heavily on him after his previous choice, Jokaku, proved disastrous. His unwavering dedication to Kei’s stability and Youko’s success as queen makes him one of her most crucial allies and mentors.

Background

https://everipedia.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/shibuya.jpg

Keiki with Rikaku

Before choosing Youko, Keiki had a difficult past with his previous ruler, Jokaku (舒覚). It took him a long time to select a ruler for Kei, and when he finally chose Jokaku, her reign ended in disaster.

Jokaku fell in love with Keiki, but her jealousy and insecurities drove her to irrational and cruel acts, including Expelling all women from the kingdom out of jealousy and Executing those who remained in an attempt to control her court

Her tyranny led Keiki to contract shitsudou, a fatal illness unique to kirin, caused by being bound to an unworthy ruler. Realizing the destruction she had caused and wanting to save Keiki’s life, Jokaku abdicated and took her own life after ruling for six years. She was posthumously known as “Yo-ou” (予王, The Prophet).

With his health restored, Keiki immediately set out to find a new, more suitable ruler for Kei.

Photo Section with Captions

Appearance

Keiki has two distinct forms, each reflecting his divine nature as a kirin. In his human form, he appears as a tall, elegant man with long, flowing blonde hair and golden eyes. His composed expression and noble bearing give him an almost ethereal presence, emphasizing his otherworldly origin. His regal attitude makes him stand out among mortals, reinforcing his role as the sacred protector of Kei.

In his kirin form, Keiki transforms into a majestic, golden-scaled unicorn-like creature with a flowing mane and long, graceful antlers. This form radiates purity and celestial wisdom, embodying the sacred essence of all kirin. His appearance commands reverence and respect throughout the Twelve Kingdoms, as kirin are seen as divine beings who choose and serve their monarchs with unwavering loyalty. His graceful and refined presence perfectly complements his dignified and reserved personality, solidifying his status as a figure of divine authority.

Personality

Keiki is reserved, serious, and highly disciplined, rarely expressing overt emotions. He maintains a calm and composed demeanor, speaking formally and offering precise, logical advice rather than emotional encouragement.

Despite his stoic exterior, Keiki is deeply loyal and caring, particularly towards Youko and Taiki. He struggles with expressing warmth, but his actions reflect his genuine concern for those under his care.

As a kirin, Keiki despises violence and war, preferring peaceful resolutions. However, he recognizes that rulership requires strength and decisive action, which often puts him at odds with the harsh realities of governance.

His biggest struggle is his sense of duty versus his personal emotions, he desires peace and order, but he must navigate the complex and often violent political landscape of Kei.

Role in The Twelve Kingdoms

Keiki eventually finds Youko Nakajima, a taika (child born outside the Twelve Kingdoms) living in Japan without any knowledge of her true origins. Determined that she is the rightful ruler of Kei, he forcibly brings her to the Twelve Kingdoms, though they become separated upon arrival.

Despite his initial belief in her, Keiki later doubts Youko’s ability to rule, particularly after the disaster with Jokaku. He fears she may not be strong enough to handle the corruption, rebellion, and hardships of governance. However, as Youko grows into her role, Keiki gradually regains his confidence in her leadership.

Shortly after arriving in Kei, Keiki is captured and magically bound by Kourin, the kirin of Kou, under orders from Joyei (舒栄), Jokaku’s sister and a false pretender to the throne. This prevents him from speaking, summoning his shirei (spiritual beasts), or transforming into his kirin form.

For much of Youko’s early struggles, Keiki remains imprisoned, unable to aid her. It is only when Youko, with the help of the King of En, storms the false ruler’s palace that he is rescued and freed from his enchantment.

After Youko officially ascends the throne, Keiki continues to serve as her Saiho, advising her on statecraft, governance, and political matters.

Though concerned about her inexperience, he encourages her to seek knowledge and wisdom from mentors like Enho, rather than ruling impulsively. Over time, he develops genuine respect for Youko’s leadership, seeing that she is nothing like Jokaku and is willing to learn and grow.

While he still struggles with direct expressions of emotion, Keiki shows his loyalty and concern through his actions, ensuring that Youko is safe and well-prepared for the challenges of ruling Kei.

Relationships

Youko Nakajima
As the kirin of Kei, Keiki is sworn to serve Youko as her Saiho. Though initially doubtful of her abilities, he gradually comes to respect and support her as she grows into a capable ruler.

Taiki
Keiki is particularly fond and protective of Taiki, the kirin of Tai, often showing a rare softness when speaking of him. He cares deeply for Taiki’s well-being, even when they are separated.

King En (Shouryuu)
Keiki and King En share a long history, with En being one of the few rulers Keiki truly respects and admires. En’s support for Youko helps Keiki gain confidence in her leadership.

Jokaku (Yo-ou)
His previous ruler, whose obsession with him led to the downfall of Kei. Her tragic reign left Keiki deeply cautious and hesitant when choosing a new ruler.

Kourin
Another kirin, but one who betrayed him by siding with the false ruler Joyei. Despite being captured and bound by her magic, Keiki does not hold personal grudges against her, as he understands that kirin are compelled to follow their chosen rulers.

Legacy

Keiki is one of the most complex and intriguing characters in The Twelve Kingdoms, embodying the struggles of duty, loyalty, and trust. Though he despises conflict, he is forced to navigate the harsh realities of political power, balancing his moral ideals with the need for strong leadership.

His devotion to Youko, despite his initial doubts, showcases his growth as a character, proving that even those born into duty must learn and adapt. As a mentor, protector, and guide, Keiki plays a vital role in ensuring Youko’s success as queen, making him an indispensable part of her journey.

Trivia

    • Keiki’s name (景麒) translates to “Radiant Kirin,” reflecting his role as a divine protector.
    • He was deeply affected by Jokaku’s downfall, leading him to be cautious and skeptical when selecting Youko.
    • He dislikes war and bloodshed, though he understands that rulers sometimes must take decisive action to protect their people.
    • Despite being emotionally reserved, he deeply cares for Youko and Taiki, though he struggles to express it directly.
    • His kirin form symbolizes purity and divine authority, making him a revered figure in Kei.