Mayalet

Hoshina is exceptionally kind and selfless, willing time and time again to lay down his life for those around him. He is attentive and observant, his deductions often striking at the heart of issues his officers faces, sometimes displaying a charming curiosity about the world around him.

He dances on that finest cusp, the juxtaposition between ridiculously adorable and smoking hot when he gets serious.

While he can be regarded a genius swordsman in his own right, Hoshina doesn't blow his own horn (unless Narumi's involved 🤣) and takes pleasure in simple, practical things.

He owns a cute, functional car, isn't above pranking his subordinates, checks bargains when he goes shopping, thoroughly reads the instruction manual for new appliances, likes desserts and coffee, and reading a good book.

His background reveals the bittersweet nature of his upbringing, the reasons he displays such great loyalty to his Captain, and devotion to duty in his true home, the Third Division.

All, in all, Hoshina is both a complex and nuanced character, one who grew on me immensely as the series progressed.

Some things that stand out to me:

Hoshina's interactions with Kafka, someone who many in their world could regard as pursuing unrealistic dreams too late in life. He never demeans Kafka's desire to stand beside Mina, addressing him as a rival, someone who he actively encourages to pursue that dream.

For someone who advises Kafka to "not to get too close to other officers", Hoshina shows such fondness and interest in them, giving praise where it's deserved, nurturing their talents and is definitely happy in their company.

There is also his fight with No. 10, something that solidified me as a Hoshina fan. Even in the face of an opponent who is terrifying, overwhelming, odds that are near unbeatable, he displays such great tenacity and bravery.

In the extreme willingness to sacrifice his life for the safety of others, I see echoes of Nanami's selflessness. That really struck a chord with me, the ability to keep fighting under hopeless circumstances, because it is, as he says, the only way to "leave his mark."

Happy Hoshina Day, fellow fans!! 💜💜

(A small hint as to the nature of my spicier fic for this weekend:)