Series & First Appearance
Cid Kagenou makes his debut in the light novel series Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute! (I Want to Be a Shadow) created by Daisuke Aizawa, which began serialization in 2018. He is also featured in its anime adaptation, which premiered in 2022, produced by the studio Nexus.
Profile at a Glance
Cid Kagenou is a 16-year-old high school student who secretly leads the clandestine organization known as Shadow Garden. He dreams of being an "Eminence in Shadow," a hidden power manipulating events from the shadows. His primary abilities include unmatched combat skills, excellent strategic thinking, and the knack for crafting intricate plots that often blur the lines between fiction and reality.
Personality & Motivations
Cid is characterized by an eccentric and whimsical personality, often portraying a nonchalant facade. His driving goal is to fulfill his fantasy of acting as a mastermind behind the scenes. Cid possesses a penchant for theatrics and dramatic flair, often engaging in over-the-top monologues. One of his catchphrases includes referencing his desire to be "a shadow," language that reflects his complex relationship with notions of power and influence. His comedic disposition often contrasts with the serious situations he finds himself in, creating a humorous undertone to his character.
Abilities / Powers
Cid Kagenou is a master martial artist with superhuman agility and strength, capable of defeating multiple opponents effortlessly. He wields a variety of weapons but is notably skilled with daggers. His combat style is fluid and relies heavily on strategic deception, including the use of misdirection to outsmart foes. Cid possesses exceptional intelligence, allowing him to craft narratives that often lead to unexpected outcomes. Despite his phenomenal abilities, he remains blissfully unaware of the genuine impact his actions have on the world around him, leading to comedic yet profound moments.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Cid’s journey begins as he seeks to establish Shadow Garden, leading various missions and unraveling conspiracies while heavily believing in his fabricated world. A significant turning point occurs during the Hero’s Saga, where he learns that his imagined conflicts and the villains he created in his mind are manifesting in reality. This revelation prompts him to reevaluate his role as a leader and the depth of his influence in the world. His ongoing battle against real enemies who mirror his fictional creations leads to growth in his understanding of responsibility and the consequences of his actions.
Notable Relationships
Cid has a unique dynamic with the members of Shadow Garden, whom he considers subordinates but also friends, despite his often oblivious attitude. Among them, Alpha (a.k.a. Natsume) serves as a prominent figure and a loyal follower. The interactions within the group emphasize Cid’s often comically misplaced confidence and ignorance, leading to comedic scenarios that further enrich the story. Additionally, his encounters with external factions, such as the Cult of Diabolos, underscore his evolving role in a world where his fantasies are becoming reality.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Cid’s iconic moments occurs in Episode 1, where he dramatically declares his ambition to become "The Eminence in Shadow," setting the tone for his character throughout the series. Another memorable scene happens in the Hero’s Saga, where he confronts a genuine enemy based on his fictional narrative, creating a pivotal moment that strikes at his core beliefs and motivations. These moments resonate with fans and highlight the juxtaposition of his self-perception with the actual consequences of his actions.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Cid Kagenou has quickly become a fan favorite, with a member favorites count of 9,129, showcasing his popularity within the anime community. In the anime adaptation, Cid is voiced by Kenichirou Matsuda in Japanese and has been dubbed by a variety of English voice actors, each bringing their own flair to the character. The concept of a character who is oblivious to the tangible impact of their fantasies resonates with audiences, often reflecting deeper themes of heroism and self-discovery.
His design combines traditional anime aesthetics with a modern twist, emphasizing his dual nature as both a high school student and a shadowy mastermind. Cid’s character has become a cultural reference point for discussions about the "isekai" genre and the trope of hidden powers that dictate plot direction without the characters’ awareness.
The charm of Cid Kagenou lies in his blend of absurdity and sincerity, ensuring fans continue to engage with his journey as both a comedic figure and a meaningful protagonist in the complex realm of anime.
