Series & First Appearance
Rakushun is a character from the anime and manga series The Twelve Kingdoms (Juuni Kokuki), created by Fuyumi Ono. His debut occurs in the first volume of the light novels, with subsequent adaptations by studio Production I.G in the anime format, which aired its first episode in 2002.
Profile at a Glance
Rakushun is a hanjyuu with the appearance of a rat, possessing acute intelligence and vast knowledge. While he is initially viewed as a secondary character, he plays a crucial supporting role alongside the protagonist Youko Nakajima. His affiliations include the Daigaku of En, and he serves as a mentor figure to Youko, imparting essential skills for her survival in a strange new world.
Personality & Motivations
Rakushun is defined by his intelligence and resourcefulness, displaying a mixture of pride and discomfort in his hanjyuu form, preferring his natural state over his human guise. He embodies loyalty and kindness, eager to share his knowledge of the political landscape and customs of the Twelve Kingdoms. His primary motivation is to help Youko navigate her new reality while also seeking to elevate the status of hanjyuu in the society that often discriminates against them. Notably, he has a deep sense of empathy, which motivates him to advocate for greater understanding between different races.
Abilities / Powers
Rakushun possesses heightened intellect coupled with the ability to adapt to various situations, making him an invaluable strategist and advisor. His keen grasp of politics and local customs allows him to provide Youko with crucial insights that facilitate her understanding of the Twelve Kingdoms. While not primarily a combat character, he is adept in using his wit and sharp instincts to maneuver through dangerous situations. Over the course of the series, he evolves significantly as he learns to face his insecurities, particularly related to his identity as a hanjyuu.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
In his first significant arc, Rakushun aids Youko in her adjustment to life in the Twelve Kingdoms, teaching her about cultural norms, social hierarchies, and survival tactics. His character development is particularly evident during the stressful scenarios that test not only his intelligence but also his emotional resilience. A pivotal moment is when Youko begins trusting him entirely, allowing him to share aspects of his life and philosophy. This marks a turning point in their relationship and influences Youko’s growth as a leader.
Notable Relationships
Rakushun’s relationship with Youko Nakajima is central to his narrative, evolving from initial distrust to a deep bond of friendship and mentorship. He also shares a supportive bond with other hanjyuu, seeking to uplift their rights and status within a society dominated by humans. His interactions with other characters, both human and hanjyuu, illustrate the broader social dynamics present in the Twelve Kingdoms.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs when Rakushun teaches Youko about the significance of decision-making in leadership—“You must remember that not every choice is black and white.” This line encapsulates the complexity of their world and underscores Rakushun’s role as a thought leader. Another poignant moment is when his discomfort in human form is revealed, symbolizing the internal struggles faced by those marginalized in society. These scenes resonate with fans, highlighting themes of identity and belonging.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
The character of Rakushun, with his unique hanjyuu design, has resonated with fans, earning him a spot in community favorites polls with 269 member favorites noted on various platforms. In the Japanese dub, Rakushun is voiced by Akio Otsuka, while the English version features the skilled voice actor Matthew Mercer. This dual representation has contributed to his popularity among Western audiences. The series itself draws influences from Chinese culture and folklore, which adds to the depth of Rakushun’s character as a figure striving against societal norms.
In summary, Rakushun is a well-crafted character whose intelligence, loyalty, and struggles with identity resonate powerfully within the narrative of The Twelve Kingdoms. His role as a mentor and a representation of marginalized groups makes him a deeply relatable and significant figure in the series.
