Nagamasa Makihara
Nagamasa Makihara |
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| Kanji: | マキハラ |
| Romaji | Makihara |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | 31 |
| Birthday: | August 11 |
| Height: | 185 cm |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Shōtaro Morikubo |
| English: | Anthony Bowling |
Makihara Nagamasa (槇原 長政, Makihara Nagamasa), also known simply as Makihara, is a professor at an unnamed university in Hand Shakers. He is a key figure in the series due to his research on Hand Shakers and their unique abilities. Throughout the series, it is revealed that Makihara has a deep understanding of the Hand Shaker phenomenon and has been studying it for an extended period. His involvement with Koyori Akutagawa is central to his character, as he keeps her asleep for an unknown amount of time while conducting his research on Hand Shakers.
Later, it is revealed that Makihara himself was once a Hand Shaker, but he tragically lost the hand that he was supposed to hold, leading to his fall from grace. This loss profoundly impacts his character, and his actions throughout the series are driven by a mix of regret, guilt, and the desire to continue his research. Makihara’s journey intertwines with the protagonists, providing both insight into the Hand Shaker phenomenon and a complex moral dilemma.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Makihara Nagamasa was once a Hand Shaker, an individual who participated in the mysterious and often dangerous Hand Shaker battles. As a researcher, he became deeply fascinated by the concept of Hand Shakers, dedicating much of his career to studying them. His work as a professor allowed him access to resources that furthered his research, but it also isolated him from others.
At some point in his life, Makihara lost the hand that he was supposed to hold, which had a significant emotional impact on him. This loss likely contributed to his decision to conduct research on Hand Shakers from a detached, almost clinical standpoint, including keeping Koyori Akutagawa asleep for an extended period to study her. His past as a Hand Shaker adds layers to his motivations, as his personal experience with the phenomenon leads him to view it both as a tool for research and a tragic reminder of his failure.
His quest to understand Hand Shakers goes beyond academic curiosity, reflecting his internal struggle with his own past. As the story unfolds, his actions raise moral questions about the ethics of his research and the consequences of his involvement with the Hand Shaker world.
Appearance
Makihara Nagamasa has a distinguished yet somewhat disheveled appearance, befitting his role as a dedicated researcher. He is often seen wearing academic attire, typically a lab coat or a formal jacket, giving him the appearance of a scholarly professional. His hair is dark and kept relatively short, though slightly unkempt, reflecting his busy and often distracted nature as a professor.
His facial features are sharp, with a solemn expression that often hints at the weight of his past. Despite his professional appearance, there is an air of melancholy about Makihara, which is further emphasized by his tired eyes and stoic demeanor. His appearance mirrors his internal struggles, as he tries to reconcile his past with his current role in the Hand Shaker world.
Personality
Makihara Nagamasa is an intelligent, reserved, and somewhat obsessive character. His personality is heavily shaped by his work and his desire to understand the Hand Shaker phenomenon. He is highly analytical, often approaching situations from a detached, scientific perspective. This clinical approach to his research sometimes makes him appear cold or uncaring, especially when dealing with individuals like Koyori, whom he keeps asleep for extended periods to study her.
While Makihara can be distant and focused on his work, there is a sense of internal conflict within him. His past as a Hand Shaker and the loss of his hand have left emotional scars, leading him to be burdened by guilt and regret. He is driven by a desire to understand the Hand Shaker phenomenon but is also haunted by the consequences of his involvement. His character is complex, torn between his pursuit of knowledge and the emotional toll that his research takes on him and others.
Role in the Story
Guardian of Koyori: Makihara first appears as the one overseeing the mysterious slumber of Koyori Akutagawa, who has been kept unconscious for an extended period for unexplained reasons. His connection to her and the Hand Shaker phenomenon hints at a deeper past that is gradually revealed.
Advisor to Tazuna and Koyori: When Tazuna connects with Koyori and awakens her Hand Shaker powers, Makihara becomes an informal guide and mentor to the pair. He explains the rules of the Ziggurat, the mechanics of Nimrods (weapons), and the dangerous consequences of battles between Hand Shakers. While he doesn’t participate in combat, his knowledge is essential to the survival and progression of the protagonists.
Former Hand Shaker: Later in the series, it is revealed that Makihara was once a Hand Shaker himself. However, he lost his partner, which resulted in his inability to summon his own Nimrod or enter the Ziggurat anymore. This tragic backstory adds depth to his motivations and explains his protective stance toward Koyori.
Relationships
Koyori Akutagawa: Makihara served as Koyori’s caretaker, having kept her in a deep sleep for reasons tied to the mystery of her dormant Hand Shaker powers. He treats her with great care and holds a sense of guilt over the role he played in her condition.
Tazuna Takatsuki: Makihara sees Tazuna as Koyori’s potential protector and partner, offering him the necessary information and tools to keep her safe. He respects Tazuna’s resolve and hopes that he can succeed where others have failed.