Series & First Appearance
Soushi Miketsukami is a key character in the anime and manga series Inu x Boku SS, created by Cocoa Fujiwara. He first appears in Chapter 1 of the manga, which was serialized in 2009, and in Episode 1 of the anime adaptation produced by Silver Link, which premiered in 2012.
Profile at a Glance
Soushi Miketsukami is a 21-year-old spirit familiar with a complex background. He serves as the main protagonist and bodyguard for Ririchiyo Shirakiin. Despite lacking memories of his past life, he possesses knowledge of Ririchiyo thanks to remnants left by his predecessor, forming a significant yet tragic bond with her.
Personality & Motivations
Soushi is characterized by a blend of purity and brutality. While he lacks the emotional baggage of guilt and trauma from his past life, he emerges as an introverted, naive, and clingy figure. His primary motivation revolves around love for Ririchiyo, culminating in a profound jealousy of his past self, whom she seems to prefer. He often expresses his emotions through letters intended for the previous Soushi, utilizing Ririchiyo’s words to bridge the gap between their existences.
Abilities / Powers
Soushi possesses several unique abilities as a spirit familiar. His standout power is the ability to transform into a fox, granting him agility and heightened senses, which make him a formidable protector. His combat style is direct and aggressive, reflecting his emotional intensity. However, his lack of experience in handling interpersonal relationships can hinder his interactions with other women and complicate his motivations, as he sometimes unintentionally misreads situations.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
One of the most significant arcs for Soushi occurs during the Demon Raid in Chapter 18, where he suffers a tragic death at the hands of Inugami, leading to a pivotal turning point for Ririchiyo and the narrative. This event sets the stage for Soushi’s reincarnation 23 years later, providing him with a second chance devoid of the historical traumas faced by his predecessor. Despite his relatively clean slate, Soushi struggles with his feelings of inadequacy and jealousy, driving him to write letters to his previous self in hopes of altering the course of their intertwined fates.
Notable Relationships
Soushi’s most significant relationship is with Ririchiyo Shirakiin, whom he loves deeply. This connection is complicated by his past self’s influence and her apparent preference for him. Other important characters include Inugami, who serves as a rival and source of conflict, and Ayame, Kagerou’s mother, who aids in Soushi’s rescue from house arrest, impacting his overall character development.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
A powerful scene occurs when Soushi witnesses Ririchiyo expressing her feelings for the previous Soushi, stating, "I can only love the past Soushi" (Chapter 18). This moment crystallizes his internal struggle and sets the tone for his motivations throughout the series. His letters to the past, particularly when he uses Ririchiyo’s words, encapsulate his longing to bridge the emotional gaps between their lives and alter their fates.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Soushi Miketsukami is voiced by Kazuya Nakai in the Japanese adaptation, who brings depth to his complex character. In the English dub, he is voiced by Johnny Yong Bosch, known for his work in various iconic anime series. The character has appeared in official popularity polls, often ranking highly due to his layered emotional depth and unique backstory, appealing to fans who appreciate multifaceted protagonists. Soushi’s design features distinct fox-like elements, exemplifying his spirit familiar traits, which have become a point of interest among cosplay communities and fan art.
Soushi Miketsukami stands out as a compelling figure within Inu x Boku SS, marked by his rich emotional landscape and complex interactions that resonate with fans. His journey underscores themes of love, jealousy, and the quest for identity, making him an integral part of the series’ narrative tapestry.
