Series & First Appearance
Mikazuki Augus is a prominent character from the anime series Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans, created by Yoshiyuki Tomino and produced by Bandai Namco Pictures. He first appears in Episode 1, titled "Iron-Blooded Orphans," which originally aired on October 4, 2015.
Profile at a Glance
Mikazuki Augus is a 14-year-old protagonist and a prominent member of the anti-organization Tekkadan. His role centers around piloting the ASW-G-08 Gundam Barbatos, making him one of the most capable mobile suit pilots in the series. Noteworthy for his melee combat proficiency, he often utilizes mace-type weapons but is also familiar with various armaments, including swords and guns.
Personality & Motivations
Mikazuki exhibits a calm and collected demeanor, often appearing unfazed even in the face of danger. He possesses an easygoing personality and a strong sense of loyalty, especially toward his childhood friend Orga Itsuka. However, his background as a child soldier has resulted in difficulty forming connections outside of Tekkadan. Mikazuki’s motivations are driven by a desire to protect his comrades and succeed in their ambitions, showcasing a cold-bloodedness towards enemies like Gjallarhorn. He is noted for favoring violence in dangerous situations, often stemming from a lack of understanding of social dynamics and relationships. A notable quirk is his straightforwardness, displaying an almost childlike honesty in his interactions.
Abilities / Powers
Mikazuki is recognized as the most skilled mobile worker operator within CGS, mastering the operation of various mobile suits, particularly the Gundam Barbatos. His combat style tends to focus on close-range confrontations, allowing him to leverage the Barbatos’s strength effectively. The Alaya-Vijnana System, which enhances his piloting capabilities, has undergone three surgical treatments, enabling him to synchronize with the Gundam more intuitively and enhance his reflexes in battle. Despite his prowess, Mikazuki tends to be reckless, sometimes sacrificing his mecha’s condition for the sake of victory. This unpredictability, combined with his exceptional skill, earns him the moniker "Devil."
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Mikazuki’s character development is significantly shaped by several critical arcs:
- The Rise of Tekkadan: Early episodes showcase his loyalty to Orga and the decision to leave CGS, leading to Tekkadan’s establishment. This transition marks the beginning of his commitment to building a new life for himself and his teammates.
- Confrontation with Gjallarhorn: As Tekkadan directly engages Gjallarhorn, Mikazuki’s cold tactical nature emerges. His decision-making reveals the moral gray areas he navigates, especially regarding violence and survival.
- The Alaya-Vijnana System: The recurring theme of transforming the pain of past traumas into strength is personified in Mikazuki’s use of the Alaya-Vijnana System. His repeated reliance on this technology emphasizes the physical and psychological costs of war.
- Climactic Showdowns: Key battles result in notable turning points for Mikazuki, leading to confrontations that test his loyalty, resolve, and understanding of true strength. His final encounters are pivotal, ultimately showcasing his growth and willingness to protect Tekkadan’s future.
Notable Relationships
- Orga Itsuka: Mikazuki’s best friend and leader of Tekkadan, Orga serves as both a mentor and a motivator, profoundly influencing Mikazuki’s decision-making and loyalty.
- Mikazuki’s Fellow Tekkadan Members: His bond with the other members, especially Akihiro and Kudelia, defines his motivations and personal growth. He forms a familial connection with them, drawing on shared experiences as child soldiers.
- Gjallarhorn Members: The antagonistic relationship with figures like McGillis Fareed and the organization itself provides Mikazuki with challenges that force him to confront his ideals and survival instincts.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
- "Just what is your goal? To be a knight?" (Episode 12): This line reflects his complex relationship with the concept of honor in battle, underlying his conflicts throughout the story.
- The Death of Orga: In the climax, when Orga dies, Mikazuki’s emotional breakdown signifies a dramatic shift in his character arc, hence establishing a turning point in his narrative, showcasing his struggle between loyalty and despair.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Mikazuki is often cited in popularity polls, ranking high among fans due to his complex background and compelling characterization.
- His voice is portrayed by Yuusuke Shirai in the Japanese version and Daniel J. Edwards in the English adaptation, both adding depth to his character through their performances.
- The name "Mikazuki" translates to "crescent moon," reflecting themes of duality and change, which resonate throughout his character arc.
- Mikazuki’s suitable piloting traits and eerie calmness during battles underline deeper currents of trauma that echo throughout the narrative of Iron-Blooded Orphans, making him a memorable icon in the franchise.
Mikazuki Augus embodies the struggles and permissions of young warriors shaped by violence, loyalty, and the quest for identity, positioning him as a central figure in discussions surrounding the moral complexities of war in anime.
