Ri Boku
Ri Boku |
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| Kanji: | 李牧 |
| Romaji | Ri Boku |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | Early 40s |
| Birthday: | Unknown |
| Gender: | Male |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Morikawa Toshiyuki |
| English: | Unknown |
Ri Boku (李牧, Ri Boku), also known as the Savior of Ganmon and Bu’An Kun (Lord of Bu’An), is a central character in Kingdom. He serves as a member of Zhao’s Three Great Heavens, a prestigious position he inherits from former generals Ren Pa and Rin Shou Jo. Ri Boku is a master strategist and one of the most formidable military leaders in the Warring States period, holding the title of Commander-in-Chief of the Zhao Military. His influence and military expertise have made him a key figure in the ongoing conflict in Kingdom, positioning him as one of the primary antagonists to Qin’s ambition of unifying China.
Ri Boku’s debut occurred during the Battle of Bayou Arc, where he was introduced as one of the newly appointed members of the Three Great Heavens, alongside Hou Ken. He also held the position of Prime Minister of Zhao, using his political and military power to further his strategic objectives. Throughout the series, Ri Boku’s actions make him a dominant force in the story, opposing Qin’s rise to power and orchestrating several of the most pivotal military conflicts.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Ri Boku hails from the prestigious Zhao state and is a highly skilled tactician and military leader. He ascended through the ranks due to his impressive strategic mind, which earned him a spot among the Three Great Heavens of Zhao, a title reserved for the state’s most powerful generals. His leadership and military prowess were quickly solidified as he led Zhao’s armies to victory in multiple campaigns.
Ri Boku’s military journey is marked by his decisive victories over legendary generals from other states. He earned his reputation by defeating figures like Ou Ki, the Monstrous Bird of Qin, and Geki Shin, the Savior of Yan. These victories, along with his strategic brilliance, established Ri Boku as a major adversary to Qin, particularly against the ambitions of Ei Sei, the king of Qin, who sought to unify China under his rule.
Originally introduced as a protagonist in Yasuhisa Hara’s one-shot manga Li Mu and Hai Yin, Ri Boku’s official debut in Kingdom occurred during the Battle of Bayou. His first major role was as the Commander-in-Chief responsible for the near-total destruction of the Northern Horsemen Tribes, an event that further established his reputation as a fearsome military strategist.
Appearance
Ri Boku has a dignified and imposing presence, befitting his status as one of the Three Great Heavens of Zhao. He is often seen wearing traditional military armor and robes that reflect his rank and status, along with a regal appearance that matches his position as the Prime Minister of Zhao. His long, dark hair and stern facial features give him an air of authority and wisdom, which complements his strategic and calculating personality.
His attire and physical appearance convey the power and respect he commands within Zhao’s military hierarchy. Ri Boku’s eyes, sharp and focused, reflect the intelligence and determination that define his character. Whether on the battlefield or in a political setting, Ri Boku’s appearance reinforces his role as a formidable adversary and a key player in the ongoing war.
Personality
Ri Boku is a highly intelligent and calculating individual, whose personality is defined by his cold pragmatism and unwavering dedication to Zhao’s interests. As a master strategist, he is often seen as calculating and methodical in his approach to military conflict, always thinking several steps ahead of his enemies. Ri Boku’s ability to assess situations quickly and make decisive moves is what sets him apart as one of the most feared generals of the Warring States period.
Though he is ruthless on the battlefield, Ri Boku also has a deep understanding of the human condition. He can be politically savvy, manipulating others to achieve his goals, and his ability to understand the motivations of his enemies makes him an even more dangerous adversary. His calm and composed demeanor, paired with his strategic genius, allows him to handle high-pressure situations with ease.
Despite his fierce and competitive nature, Ri Boku is not simply a villainous figure. His actions and motivations, while often in opposition to Qin, are deeply rooted in his desire to protect and elevate Zhao’s standing in the Warring States. His commitment to Zhao’s survival and success is unwavering, making him a dedicated leader, even if his methods are sometimes morally ambiguous.
Role in the Story
Battle of Bayou Arc: Ri Boku is introduced during this arc as a mysterious observer before revealing himself as the Commander-in-Chief of Zhao’s army, ultimately responsible for the surprise death of the Qin General Ou Ki. His tactical superiority is showcased, solidifying his position as Qin’s greatest threat.
Coalition Invasion Arc: As the central antagonist, Ri Boku masterminds a massive alliance of six states to crush Qin. His strategic leadership nearly destroys Qin’s capital, Kanyou, but is thwarted by Qin’s last-minute counterattack led by Ei Sei and his generals. His failure sows distrust among Zhao’s ruling class.
Zhao Crisis Arc: Despite years of loyalty, Ri Boku is betrayed by the Zhao court due to political paranoia. Imprisoned and stripped of power, he becomes the main protagonist of this arc, depicting his fall and the internal decay of Zhao. Eventually, his supporters manage to rescue him, marking the beginning of his return.
Zhao’s Retaliation & Hango Campaign Arcs: Ri Boku resumes command during Zhao’s counteroffensive alongside Shi Ba Shou. Now a hardened and more desperate man, he seeks to turn the tide against Qin once more, aware that Zhao’s time is running out. These arcs depict his last major confrontations, both militarily and ideologically, with Qin’s unification forces.
Relationships
Ou Ki: Ri Boku’s greatest military rival, whose death he orchestrated during the Battle of Bayou. Despite killing him, Ri Boku held Ou Ki in high regard and viewed him as a worthy and noble opponent.
Ei Sei (Ying Zheng): The King of Qin and Ri Boku’s ideological counterpart. Ri Boku respects Ei Sei’s dream of unifying China but is committed to opposing him to preserve Zhao’s sovereignty.
Kaine: His loyal bodyguard and subordinate, who admires Ri Boku with deep devotion. She remains at his side through his rise, fall, and return.