awoooo

I do feel as though the dynamics of Mashiro with Hoeru and Rikuo with Hoeru have a specific quality in relation to Kuon that does add to their appeal. That is to say that I feel there's a bit to say about how Rikuo and Mashiro interact with Kuon on a personal level, with Rikuo being the one to point out that Hoeru can make his own choices and laughing at the idea of Hoeru being referred to as an angel, and Mashiro being the one to point out Kuon's flaws, pointing out how his hope can bring about suffering.

Though all the Gozyugers have a vendetta against Kuon for being how he has hurt Hoeru and for being part of Bridan, it is Rikuo and Mashiro that are able to peel back bits of Kuon and make him snap, and both times it is with regards to Hoeru. It's this idea that they both promote ideas of independence and go against Kuon's need for control in a way that bothers him enough to attack and push this idea of Hoeru being this angel. It's the idea that Rikuo fights Kuon one-on-one when challenged as the others fight summoned warriors and Mashiro offers to help Hoeru fight against Kuon.

It's about how Rikuo and Mashiro offer a different view to the audience and to Kuon while also standing by Hoeru even when Hoeru isn't present. It's about how that brings Hoeru support as their relationships develop and Hoeru develops as a person. It is also how it exposes parts of Kuon that show a desperate need for control and exposes a sense of vulnerability that Kuon does not want to be seen. A part of why these dynamics mean something is in part due to how they support each other and allow Hoeru to develop as a person through shared experiences and allowing him to reflect upon his own beliefs in the long run. The appeal with Kuon's view on their relationships isn't in the idea of jealousy, but in the fact that Rikuo and Mashiro are both factors that keep Kuon from being able to feel in control and they make him stumble, but they also allow Hoeru the ability to have people that promote his independence and strength while reminding Kuon of his powerlessness. It's the idea that Rikuo is the opposite of Kuon in many ways and that Mashiro can understand things about Kuon that he doesn't want to be understood or acknowledged.

I think the appeal of the dynamics in general stem from the bonds that have been formed whether it be through the concern they have for one another, the secrets they hold, their admiration and annoyance, or one of the many pieces of their bonds. I feel that there's just a sense of understanding between Hoeru and Rikuo and Hoeru and Mashiro that makes them stand out to me. It's in them being so different, but understanding and supporting each other in ways that only they can that I find something worth analyzing and looking forward further developments of. I also think it's telling that it's moments like Rikuo wanting to help him win the race or Mashiro making a new combination with him are moments that Hoeru treasures and are shown when he declares that the Gozyugers are his friends before he returns to them.

I talked about some of these ideas before here, here, and here.

And if you want to cross me, I'll take you on anytime. Got it?