kusanagi mamoru

Once the Aragami were reawakened, they took measures to secure their continued existence. Orochi, in particular, sought out a family planning to sacrifice Kushinada to put the Aragami back to sleep. Orochi eliminated the parents but had unique plans for their infant son. By implanting seven mitama, or Aragami souls, within him, Orochi tasked young Mamoru Kusanagi with safeguarding Kushinada and ensuring her safety until they deemed it time. As Mamoru grew, he vigilantly watched over Kaede Kunikida, observing her development. Unbeknownst to him then, this guardianship would later evoke emotions he struggled to manage. Kusanagi was discontent with his fate, yearning for freedom. He believed that killing the Kushinada and triggering the pulse to seal his masters in slumber was the path to liberation. Mutated by the seven mitama within him, green blood courses through Kusanagi's veins, granting him the ability to transform parts of his body. He can grow blades from his arms and possesses extraordinary physical prowess, including remarkable jumping abilities. However, without an eighth mitama, he lacks the strength and capabilities needed to confront Murakumo. Yet, Kusanagi is not one to surrender easily, and his unique bond with Momiji, who also received her mitama from Orochi, will be pivotal in the conflict's later stages. His name, "Mamoru," means protector, while "Kusanagi" derives from "Kusanagi-no-tsurugi," the Grass-Cutting Sword, a legendary blade said to be bestowed by the Japanese gods upon the emperor.