Series & First Appearance
Nine, a central character from the anime Terror in Resonance (Zankyou no Terror), created by Shinichirō Watanabe and produced by MAPPA, first appears in the premiere episode titled "triangulation," which is Episode 1 of the series that aired in summer 2014.
Profile at a Glance
Nine is a 17-18-year-old male character and serves as one of the two primary members of the Sphinx terrorist group, alongside his partner, Twelve. He is depicted as highly intelligent, with exceptional skills in computing and hacking, and is proficient in strategy games such as chess. His signature abilities include disguise and manipulation, allowing him to navigate complex situations with ease.
Personality & Motivations
Nine is characterized by his reserved, calm, and collected demeanor. He is often analytical and strategic, reflecting a maturity beyond his years due to his tumultuous upbringing. Motivated by a desire for freedom and a sense of justice, Nine seeks to expose the injustices resulting from the experiments conducted in the institution where he and Twelve were raised. His hardships have instilled a sense of responsibility towards those around him, particularly in protecting Twelve and later, Lisa. A notable quirk is his fondness for classical literature, adding depth to his character.
Abilities / Powers
Nine’s standout abilities include highly advanced computing and hacking skills, which he uses to orchestrate elaborate schemes. His strategic mindset allows him to devise intricate plans, often likened to playing a game of chess. Additionally, he is skilled in crafting disguises to elude authorities. However, the character’s health is compromised due to experimental drugs administered during his time at the institution, ultimately leading to severe headaches and contributing to his eventual demise. This limitation emphasizes his vulnerability amidst his otherwise impressive capabilities.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Nine’s character arc is predominantly shaped by his past in the experimental institution and the events that unfold following his escape. Initially driven by intense anger and a desire for revenge against those who harmed him, his motivations evolve throughout the series. The duo’s terroristic acts are not mere chaos; they serve as a means to confront their troubled past and challenge a system that exploits children like them. A turning point occurs as Nine navigates his complicated relationship with Twelve, ultimately leading him to make sacrifices for his partner’s safety. His emotional and psychological turmoil culminates in his tragic end, where he succumbs to the side effects of the drugs, though his death is symbolically represented rather than physically shown. One year later, Nine’s legacy is remembered, particularly through the graves of him and Twelve, emphasizing the lasting impact of their shared experiences.
Notable Relationships
Nine’s most significant relationship is with Twelve, his fellow escapee from the institution and partner in their acts of rebellion. Their bond is complex, marked by a deep mutual understanding stemming from their traumatic upbringing. Nine also forms a connection with Lisa, a girl who becomes intricately involved in their plans, adding layers to his motivations as he seeks to protect her. The interactions with Shibazaki, the detective pursuing Sphinx, also play a crucial role in shaping Nine’s character as he grapples with the moral implications of his actions.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Nine’s most poignant moments occurs in Episode 11, "V," where he sacrifices himself to protect Twelve during a confrontation with law enforcement. This moment encapsulates his growth from a vengeful youth to a selfless protector and highlights the deep emotional bond between him and Twelve. A notable quote is, “In the end, you have to live with the choices you make,” reflecting his understanding of the consequences of their actions and the weight of their past.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Nine is voiced by the talented Japanese actor Nobunaga Shimazaki while the English dub features Matt Mercer, both bringing depth and nuance to the character. As one of the standout figures in Terror in Resonance, Nine’s complexity has led to a solid fanbase, reflected in his member favorites count of 2,895. His intelligence and dark narrative have drawn parallels to other iconic anime anti-heroes, raising discussions about ethics and morality in storytelling. Nine’s character design and development are often praised for their realism and emotional depth, which has contributed to the series’ critical acclaim.
In summary, Nine is a multifaceted character whose journey resonates with themes of trauma, justice, and sacrifice, making him a memorable figure in the landscape of anime characters.
