In his human form, Tsume appears as a tall, well-built man with cropped silver hair tied back into a short ponytail. He wears a stud earring in his right ear and two hoop earrings, one larger than the other in his left. His outfit consists of a form-fitting black leather ensemble that leaves his midriff exposed, with partially torn sleeves that add to his rugged appearance.

In his true form, Tsume is a large grey wolf with striking gold eyes. He bears a distinctive X-shaped scar across his chest, a visible marker of past battles. Toboe has also remarked that Tsume’s body is covered in numerous other scars, hinting at a long and violent history.

Tsume is portrayed as a classic lone-wolf archetype gruff, aggressive, and emotionally distant. He often speaks bluntly, curses frequently, and carries himself with confidence that can border on arrogance. Initially, he keeps a noticeable distance from the rest of the group, joining the pack more out of restlessness than genuine belief in their journey.

Despite frequent clashes with Kiba, Tsume gradually begins to accept the pack’s purpose and eventually embraces their mission to reach Paradise. Among the group, he forms the closest bond with Toboe, whom he affectionately and somewhat dismissively calls the “runt.” Though he rarely shows his emotions openly, Toboe’s kindness and admiration slowly chip away at Tsume’s hardened exterior, playing a key role in his decision to remain with the group.

Before arriving in Freeze City, Tsume lived a solitary life, traveling alone and avoiding attachment. He preferred independence over companionship and chose to distance himself from other wolves. Over time, Tsume began associating more with humans, eventually integrating himself into human society by adopting a human guise. His time among humans shaped his guarded demeanor and contributed to his initial skepticism toward the idea of Paradise.

Tsume is first introduced as a member of a human gang that raids supply transports belonging to the Nobles. After failing to save Gehl, a young gang member who hesitated upon witnessing Tsume’s true form Tsume becomes disillusioned and separates from the group. Shortly afterward, he meets Toboe and protects him from Quent Yaiden. Although resistant at first, Tsume reluctantly joins the newly formed pack, rationalizing his decision as boredom with city life rather than genuine interest in their quest.

When Toboe triggers a hidden war drone, Tsume saves him from the resulting attack. Despite his gruff attitude, Tsume begins to show subtle signs of attachment, especially toward Toboe. At the City of Lost Wolves, he denounces the idea of Paradise as a delusion, yet when the group temporarily splits, he chooses to remain with Toboe, hinting at a growing sense of loyalty.

Tsume expresses visible outrage at the treatment of other wolves, particularly when Zali initially refuses to help the pack. His frustration reflects a growing emotional investment in their cause. The arrival of Cheza begins to shift Tsume’s skepticism, and he gradually opens up to the possibility of Paradise. His commitment becomes evident as he fights alongside Kiba to protect Cheza from Darcia.

Though wary of Blue, Tsume joins the others in defending her from a group of hostile humans. He eventually accepts her as part of the pack. Later, when Toboe expresses a desire to stay behind with the Native tribe, Tsume allows it without protest, respecting the younger wolf’s choice.

In Jagura’s city, Tsume is the first to uncover Hige’s apparent connection to the Nobles. Discovering a hall filled with taxidermied wolves wearing collars similar to Hige’s, he initially suspects betrayal. However, he comes to understand that Hige was being manipulated and did not act with malicious intent.

• Kiba: At the outset, Tsume harbors a strong dislike for Kiba, viewing him as arrogant and blindly idealistic. He is especially critical of Kiba’s unwavering faith in Paradise and resents what he perceives as an attempt to manipulate the others into following him. However, after witnessing Kiba’s determination and sincerity, Tsume gradually changes his perspective. By Episode 6, he begins to respect Kiba’s leadership and acknowledges him as the true leader of the pack.

• Toboe: Tsume’s relationship with Toboe undergoes the most significant evolution. Initially, he rejects Toboe’s kindness and often scolds him for his naivety and clumsiness. However, Toboe’s gentle persistence and willingness to help even at risk to himself gradually soften Tsume’s hardened exterior. Their bond deepens into a brotherly relationship, marked by mutual care and quiet trust. Tsume is devastated by Toboe’s death, remaining behind to mourn him and expressing his regret that he could not bring the younger wolf to Paradise. He admits that Toboe had been the one who kept him going on their journey.

• Hige: Tsume and Hige share a rocky start, often clashing in attitude and approach. Tsume is initially cold and dismissive, while Hige frequently mocks or teases him, even in serious moments. Over time, their interactions shift to a more playful rivalry, and the two develop a rapport built on mutual respect, often teasing each other in a more light-hearted manner.

• Cheza: Tsume is initially skeptical of Cheza, believing that her presence brings danger to the group. He keeps his guard up around her, wary of her mysterious origins and the attention she attracts. However, as the journey progresses and her importance becomes clearer, Tsume gradually comes to accept her as part of the pack.

• Blue: Despite protecting Blue from harm after she is attacked by humans, Tsume remains distrustful of her due to her previous role in hunting wolves. He had encountered her before, during which she and her former owner posed a threat to the pack. Over time, however, Tsume learns to set aside his hostility, recognizing her change of heart and eventually accepting her as a fellow pack member.

Tsume’s name is written in katakana as ツメ. In Japanese, the word “tsume” (爪) translates to “claw,” which reflects both his personality and combat style. The name symbolizes his aggressive, guarded nature and his role as a fierce fighter within the pack. It also aligns with the animalistic naming convention present among the wolves in Wolf’s Rain, emphasizing traits tied to their instincts and survival.