Shinoa Hīragi is a member of the Hīragi family that rules the Japanese Imperial Demon Army. Also a member of the Moon Demon Company she is close with the Lieutenant Colonel, Guren Ichinose. She would become a squad leader with Yūichirō Hyakuya as a member in addition to Yoichi Saotome and Shihō Kimizuki then Mitsuba Sangū as well. Shinoa interacts with various other characters throughout the Seraph of the End series, which affects herself and the story. This article details Shinoa's relationships with other characters.
Japanese Imperial Demon Army
Family
A member of the ruling Hīragi family of Japan, who are also in charge of the Japanese Imperial Demon Army, Shinoa is not a prominent member where her older relatives occupy the ruling ranks, but still receives benefits from her surname.
| “ | I am a member of the Hīragi family... the leaders of this Demon Army. Am I still forbidden to pass? | ” |
–A statement to guards in the army's underground Shinjuku barracks. "Everyone's a Sinner" | ||
Due to what befell her sister Mahiru, she avoids army politics hence the scarce amount of interaction with a family preparing its members to be ruthless leaders if anything. Shinya, an adopted member is one of the few who Shinoa gets along well with, where she is prepared to work with Guren against them.
| “ | I like how the word rolls off the tongue. Besides, I have little interest in the petty power struggles of the upper ranks. I lost my elder sister to that sort of thing, after all. | ” |
–Explaining to guards on why she has the meager rank of sergeant. "Everyone's a Sinner" | ||
While generally Shinoa keeps her background to herself, it does affect her relationships with others. Although Shinoa can be held in high regard, there are also comments that she is spoilt.
| “ | It is true the Demon Army is the most dangerous organization in all of Japan. | ” |
–Her views on the army that her family runs. "Where It All Begins" | ||
Mahiru Hīragi
Shinoa's older sister, Mahiru Hīragi helped with the development of cursed gear. Her desire for power and love was manipulated by her demon and she was used as a pawn for a greater plan thus she was eventually taken over by the demon. She was romantically involved with Guren Ichinose who Shinoa thinks killed her to acquire a weapon, however unknown to Shinoa is that Mahiru killed herself. Shinoa and Mahiru were rather close compared to their other siblings.
| “ | I don't compare myself to my sister, thank you. | ” |
–Speaking to Shikama Dōji. "Shuttered Shinoa" | ||
Also unbeknownst to Shinoa is that Mahiru requested that Guren pass Shikama Dōji to her so that Shinoa could survive the apocalypse. It eventually becomes her Cursed Gear scythe. Shinoa reveals that Shikama Dōji may have possessed her sister when she owned it at some point. Shinoa was protected by Mahiru from Shikama Dōji's possession until she was capable of handling it herself.
| “ | Hero? Hah. She was anything but. She was a terror, making a mess for everyone. | ” |
–Shinoa reflects how Mahiru was already an unstoppable monster when she was sixteen. Chapter 133: "Maidens in Love" Page 18 | ||
It would be because of Mahiru's help that Shinoa would be freed from Shikama Doji's possession. Unconscious after sinful keys were used to seal the First, she did not know Mahiru was the one who caught her as she fell. When Shikama Doji roused again, Shinoa would find Mahiru reach her location to hinder him, which assisted Shinoa in repelling the First's possession. They were a part of the same group that helped Yu rescue Mika when he became a demon.
Despite them being sisters, Shinoa warned Mika to be wary of her sister. Although on the same side, Shinoa was not fully aligned with Mahiru. This was clearer after Shinoa gained the First's powers, and concealed her squad from Mahiru who was working with Guren and Ferid. When Mahiru, with Ferid and Guren mounted an attack against Saito, she simply observed and didn't come to her side at all.
After Mahiru lost, Shinoa alone sought her out in the sphere she was in. Greeting her as big sister, there was no sympathy for Mahiru at all despite this being the end for her. Listening to her speak, Shinoa simply agreed that Mahiru lost pretty badly. Asked what it meant to live, Shinoa felt Mahiru was the genius and not to ask her. For her intellect, Shinoa also requested that Mahiru break matters down for her. Upon Mahiru saying that she devoted her whole life to protect her, Shinoa felt she was a liar.
Then seeking her view on what it meant to live, Shinoa spoke of Mahiru letting her precious little sister in on the secret before she went ahead. Simply hearing Mahiru out, Shinoa understood why she described living as like a brief flash. Perhaps making it about her and what insights she could gain, Shinoa was happy to answer Mahiru that she had indeed fallen in love.
This seeing what Mahiru had to say where she wasn't at all bothered about her moving on stance dramatically changed the moment Mahiru advised Shinoa to focus on her reason to live, and was told that she did not have to remember those who were gone. Shinoa was already prepared to concentrate on herself and her love for Yu, but upon Mahiru effectively saying that Shinoa should forget about her, Shinoa's expression reversed.
Raising herself how Mahiru protected her for all these years, Shinoa felt Mahiru had given her power and opportunity even if it put her at a disadvantage. While Mahiru was satisfied she lived her own life and happy to move on, Shinoa wasn't. Wanting Mahiru to be around for a little longer, Shinoa spoke that she wanted to spend more time with her.
| “ | I wanted you to be around for a little longer. To spend time with you... | ” |
–A sudden longing to have her sister around. Chapter 153: "The Flash of Youth" Page 11 | ||
Although siblings, Shinoa was not sure how to respond upon being pulled into a hug. Listening as Mahiru spoke about knowing that she could do it, and how she is more amazing, Shinoa began crying. When Mahiru said she had to go, Shinoa cried for her not to. Unable to hold onto her sister, Shinoa could only watch as Mahiru disappeared which left her sobbing.
In considering how she should approach her squad given they wanted to resurrect others, Shinoa had Mahiru in mind. Despite her upset, Shinoa did not want to resurrect Mahiru. Wanting to live with those who were alive and avoid the perils of resurrection, Shinoa did consider Mahiru's guidance. Shinoa thought about doing what her sister did, namely trick and use others. It appeared that Mahiru's words that she was more amazing was why Shinoa then abandoned the course of treachery, and instead was upfront with her squad. She may have had a brief and true moment of connection with Mahiru, but Shinoa was not at all going to follow her path.
Shinya Hīragi
Her adoptive older brother, Shinoa and Shinya are both friends with Guren. In the light novels, Shinya is shown to be kinder to Shinoa than the other Hīragis. She considered him a somewhat pitiful person, they are a bit similar in origin.[1] Shinoa would receive his assistance when they worked together with Narumi's squad during battling in Nagoya where they defeated vampire noble Lucal Wesker. Helping Shinya to walk after rescuing him from thirteenth progenitor Crowley Eusford with Chess Belle and Horn Skuld, Shinoa would also comply with Shinya's direction to calm Yu down after he did not want to leave Guren behind. With uncertainty of their situation at arriving at Nagoya airport with no rescue in sight Shinoa looks to Shinya and is happy with his decision to head back and rescue Guren.
Where Shinya was involved with Guren's group, ultimately Shinoa would drift from him as she formed her own faction with her squad and the First's power. While Shinoa got along with Shinya better than others, she would not come to his assistance as Shinya joined Guren, with Mahiru and Ferid against Saito. Witnessing Shinya's death, Shinoa had no comment at all for the loss of a Hiragi family member or someone she at least seemed fond of.
Kureto Hīragi
Shinoa's half-brother where they have a very distant relationship. Kureto shares the same father, Tenri Hīragi. He only cares about carrying out his duties as he tortured Shinoa at a young age. In the battle at Nagoya airport after Shinoa ran from his offer of being saved from a massacre he was prepared to sacrifice her for the seraph to work without a care, despite being siblings.
Seishirō Hīragi
One of her half-brothers, Seishirō is a part of the Japanese Imperial Demon Army.
Tenri Hīragi
Shinoa's father. Her sister Mahiru overshadowed Shinoa so much that Tenri never even met with Shinoa. He displays no interest in her. Likewise, Shinoa showed no care or grief in her father's death at Kureto's hands.
Moon Demon Company
Shinoa Squad
Made the leader of her own Shinoa Squad, she is invested in their development and helping to ensure that they can survive. While Shinoa is fond of teasing members, she also sees how she can count on them in dealing with foes.
| “ | In the end, the only ones we can trust are our friends inside this rest stop with us. | ” |
–To Mitsuba where they would join the male members of the squad in the next lavatory. "The Making of an Angel" | ||
After Mika and Narumi informally became members, Shinoa still focuses on support and ensuring everyone can take part in planning their next course of action as a squad. With no recourse but to work with Ferid and Crowley, she speaks for the group to board the bus to where they wanted.
After Yu left the group, Shinoa appeared to have serious doubts about herself, but not really about the squad as a whole. In asking Mitsuba whether she wanted to be squad leader, Shinoa's interest was not about the organization. Nevertheless, where her friends Mitsuba, along with Yoichi and Kimizuki were ready to follow her, Shinoa announced how the squad was back in action. It was as an independent faction though, where Shinoa had taken into account that Guren, along with Mahiru and the vampires had won, but so should they now. Their first major test was hiding themselves from Guren when Ferid and Mahiru had detected them. Shinoa squad would not come to Guren's group when they launched an attack against Saito.
Once Guren's side had fallen, it was the first time Shinoa assessed her position within her own squad. Having thoughts against them, Shinoa concluded they wanted to resurrect humanity, and so their goals no longer align. Not even telling them that Guren was dead, Shinoa also entertained thoughts of deceiving and using them.
| “ | Their interests and mine don't align anymore. What's the best thing to do now? Deceive and use them? | ” |
–Thoughts on her own squad once Guren and Mahiru perished. Chapter 153: "The Flash of Youth" Page 21 | ||
While ultimately Shinoa didn't do that, it was hardly beneficial for cohesion when Shinoa spoke plainly about not wanting to save their families.
Yūichirō Hyakuya
Shinoa acted as an army surveillance officer to watch Yu under a school setting until he made friends. She introduces herself and her purpose when Yu is not co-operating with the class teacher. Offering pointers on what he could say to make friends, Shinoa reports on him and watches him when they enter the training classroom for the Moon Demon Company. Later, Yu joins her squad where she still enjoys teasing him. Shinoa acknowledges his fighting capabilities of which she is impressed with and is pleased to see his developments such as asking whether they should retreat when facing a stronger foe.
| “ | My, my! I knew Lieutenant Colonel Guren's protégé had to be powerful. But I hardly expected him to be this powerful. | ” |
–Impressed with Yu's battle prowess and regarding him as Guren's protégé. "First Extermination" | ||
Shinoa is asked by Guren whether she has developed feelings for Yu, and she occasionally blushes when in close contact with him. However, she says she is uncertain about her own feelings, and Yu is oblivious to them. Understanding that Mika was Yu's family first Shinoa greatly respects Yu's resolve and feelings towards saving Mikaela and she agrees to help save him knowing he will do so anyway.
Later on, during a conversation with her demon Shikama Dōji, Shinoa admits that she is jealous of Yu for being able to get attached to people and instinctively act on his feelings to protect them. She laments her own inability to act on her desires. Shinoa sacrificed herself to save Yu and his demon, Asuramaru from being overcome by Shikama Dōji, becoming possessed by Shikama Dōji as a result. Learning that Guren is heading for Yu she intends to help Yu.
Clear that she loved someone, Shinoa's desires for Yu were practically used to free herself from the confines of Shikama Dōji. Repeating that she loved Yu, Shinoa let her desire run wild to the point she turned into a demon. With her body back Shinoa was relieved at seeing Yu. When Yu had entered a demonic state at being told to choose between restoring Mika or resurrecting all of humanity, Shinoa was upset about his worsening state and how he might not come back. Encouraged to speak to him, Shinoa cradles Yu. When Yu wakes up, apologizes to her, and starts to leave, Shinoa starts yelling at him to stay. But Yu just ignores her and runs away. After Yu's escape, she seems upset and angry at the same time.
| “ | Yuichiro... Please... Don't go anywhere without me. I just... can't. I can't go on living... ...Without you. | ” |
–Crying as she holds Yu whose demon possession is worsening. Chapter 118: "I Hear Voices" page 20-21 | ||
After Krul says that Yu has lost his mind, she says that she doesn't care what state Yu is in. She states that she will bring Yu back even if it means killing Mika, ignoring the fact that Mika is most important to Yu and not caring about how Yu would feel and that Yu might hate her. When she approaches Yu, she asks him to come back together, but seeing that Yu is still fighting back to back with Mika, she gets angry.
Remembering his departure from the squad, Shinoa was deeply affected to the point she sought solace by herself away from the rest. Taking to questioning her own worth, Shinoa then spoke to Mitsuba about having feelings for Yu. Indulging these feelings, no matter how fantastic and arguably implausible they were, Shinoa's true goal was generating desires. The base desires to fight with Mitsuba for Yu's love were stirring enough for Shinoa to form the power to summon other peoples' demons to obey her. The feelings for Yu may have been real, but rather than the end goal being to receive that love, the true goal was generating a previously unseen ability to place Shinoa, and her squad, into a faction of their own.
Detecting that Yu was observing her, Shinoa was happy to announce she was coming to save him. Knowing Yu was with the second progenitors, Shinoa headed to join him. She watched as Yu intervened to assist Saito against Guren's faction. Acknowledging to herself that she had fallen in love, Shinoa's goal was to get Yu back as part of her dream to live her life with those around her. Betting that Yu would sacrifice himself to resurrect others, Shinoa was against him doing that and it factored into her changing her plan to be against restoring her own squad's family members. In trying to have her squad adopt her plan to abandon the prospect of resurrection, Shinoa brought Yu into the conversation. Claiming that Yu said he was going to save everyone and take the punishment himself, Shinoa stated if others were fine with that then they would be enemies.
Yoichi Saotome
Finding Yoichi being bullied Shinoa encouraged Yu to intervene. Clear that Yoichi was Yu's first friend, Shinoa took Yoichi for herself in a group activity so Yu had to join Kimizuki and stated that they would be the best group. They attend the same classes together and Shinoa is alarmed when Yoichi is possessed by his demon where Guren has ordered him destroyed. Yoichi would become a part of her squad she leads yet Shinoa is curious that background records on him have been deleted. They are on very good terms with each other and get along well as teammates. Shinoa would find that Yoichi was not keen on abandoning the resurrection plan as he had his sister Tomoe to consider.
Shihō Kimizuki
Before becoming Yūichirō's supervisor, Shinoa supervised Kimizuki and tried to teach him how to make friends. She was aware that Kimizuki had picked a fight with Yu who fought back but preferred to enjoy the show. He later joins her squad under her command. Shinoa was upfront on what Kimizuki would do if she really were manipulating squad members but agreed to discuss the matter as a team where they would be honest with one another. Although his swift response time makes him more difficult to tease than other members of her squad Shinoa would find a way by teaming up with Mitsuba to act as him and Yu being more than friends as a joke once.
Asked what their plan is with Yu having left, Shinoa is quick to confirm Kimizuki's question that they mean to get him back and resurrect their families. This would change upon Guren falling, and feeling that Yu meant to sacrifice himself for resurrection. Kimizuki experienced a sudden change in perception because of this, and Shinoa could only darkly regard him as she was asked who are they fighting against. Feeling their interests do not align anymore, Shinoa found Kimizuki angered when she announced that she did not want to resurrect others. Exacerbating it, Shinoa spoke plainly that she was not telling Kimizuki to give up on his sister, she was telling him to choose her or the squad.
Mitsuba Sangū
Shinoa and Mitsuba have a history together, and Shinoa often addresses her as "Mitsu" ("Mi-chan", in the original Japanese text). She is pleased that Mitsuba is joining her squad and so under her command. Shinoa teases her about having a crush on Yu.
| “ | And so... the two clashed mightily at first. But as time passed they grew closer, until one day— | ” |
–Teasing Mutsuba about her supposedly falling in love with Yu. Chapter 9 "First Extermination" | ||
They often team up to tease the other squad members and they are the closest pair in the squad. On more than one occasion Shinoa has commented on the size of Mitsuba's bust and appears wary at how much larger it is than hers. On personal bodies, Shinoa only makes such kinds of comments to Mitsuba.
| “ | A... A G-cup... Even a holstein reborn as a human like you couldn't... No. Just no. It's impossible. | ” |
–Alarmed at bra sizes as Mitsuba passes nearby. Chapter 54 "Sinner's Christmas" | ||
Found by Mitsuba after she sought some time alone, Shinoa was helped by her as the squad leader. Although friends, Shinoa was not particularly comforted by Mitsuba's assistance. Having formed a plan of her own however, Shinoa may have found Mitsuba useful in a scenario of fostering desires for demon summoning that she had in mind.
In a mix of teasing Mitsuba that she had a crush on Yu, and revealing she had one too, Shinoa was able to speak to Mitsuba alone on this sensitive topic. For the joking element, Shinoa was sure to gaze at Mitsuba as she commented how could overcome such a big rival in reference to her chest.
Asking Mitsuba whether she had found the meaning of life, Shinoa is able to tell she is not being forthright in her answer. In looking at her expressions, Shinoa similarly gathers Mitsuba feels the same about Yu despite her not verbally admitting it.
When Mitsuba states she had no one who loved her, Shinoa is quick to claim she does. Further she would give her life for her own.
| “ | I love you, Mitsu. Lots and lots. If you were ever on the verge of death... And I could give my life to save yours, I'd do it. I mean it. | ” |
–Affirming love for Mitsuba after she said no one did in her family. Chapter 133: "Maidens in Love" Page 12 | ||
While a nice display, Shinoa was in the progress of generating desires for herself. Although speaking how she already regards Mitsuba as family, Shinoa added her validation or not does not make a difference. With that done, Shinoa awaited Mitsuba to speak what she would have been anticipating. Successful in directing Mitsuba to question whether she wanted Yu's validation, Shinoa felt the powerful desire form within her that she had Mitsuba instigate.
In framing herself and Mitsuba as rivals for Yu, and asking whether they should fight over his heart, beneath the surface of this conversation, Shinoa was as ever benefitting from this exchange to form desires within herself. Where Mitsuba was a good friend for Shinoa, in navigating two scenarios in this conversation she also had someone able to bring about what she was after in terms of the summoning demons powers she was working on.
Looked to as one asked whether they could save Yu, she remained a leader depended on by Mitsuba.[2]
When Shinoa was transforming Ky Luc into a black demon cursed gear she had a thought to give that weapon to Mitsuba. Successful in this, Shinoa is happy to pass it to her.
| “ | Woot! I did it! Here, Mitsu! New black demon cursed gear for you! | ” |
–Changing Ky Luc into a new weapon for Mitsuba. Chapter 143: "His Dreams" Page 33 | ||
In trying to have others join her side in being against resurrection, Shinoa found Mitsuba was the first one to do so. Offering to take the punishment herself for resurrection succeeded in inducing Mitsuba to shout that she couldn't.
Guren Squad
Where they were members of prominent family houses before the world ended, Shinoa came into contact with future members of Guren Squad when she was a child and they were teenagers.
Guren Ichinose
Shinoa works for Guren rather than the Hīragi family. They have a close relationship with Shinoa acting beyond her years around him. She follows his orders such as when she kept watch eye on Yu Shinoa was angered at feeling that Guren was behind Yu's transformation and more so at hearing him invoke his sister's name when using his weapon. He loved her sister, Mahiru Hīragi, who became the demon in his sword. Gathering her squad they decided whether they should stick with Guren when he could be using them to intimidate army higher ups and agreed to do so. Shinoa maintains trust in Guren but was taken aback when her jovial answer as to why they were late to the Ebina rest stop was shut down and she was shouted at. Rather than Yu it was Shinoa who was the one Guren wanted to punish as she had never experienced what it was like to lose someone. Shinoa became confused when he slaughters many of the humans and stabbing Kimizuki in Nagoya airport.
Thinking that they were all Shikama Dōji's guinea pigs, Shinoa speculated that Guren had been secretly undermining the First. Bearing in mind how she has been personally targeted by Shikama Doji, it would heavily factor in Shinoa feeling he was behind events, and not Guren.
| “ | This is a very important distinction, I believe. Shikama Doji has been plotting these events for untold millennia. Both Mahiru and I were caught up in those plans since birth... ...With absolutely nothing we could do but despair. But then you came along and tried to rescue us. The fact I'm here with you, that I can smile and joke with you... ...Is because of what you did, Lt. Colonel! | ” |
–Differentiating between Guren's and Shikama Doji's end result. page 30 | ||
In a rare case of being overcome with tears, Shinoa would also feel she was responsible for the calamity as her life was spared due to Guren's action where others perished.
Conscious of Guren winning in her view, Shinoa and her squad mean to form their own plan as she cannot trust him. The parting would be absolute, Shinoa would not assist Guren in any way and simply watch from afar as he failed in his plan to defeat stronger vampire progenitors including Saito. Where Yu was crying over Guren's death, Shinoa was indifferent and operated as her own force where she could not leave matters to Yu.
While she did not tell her squad, Shinoa was calm when the topic of Guren having been killed was brought up. For someone she had worked with for so long, Shinoa was focused as a leader herself as she wondered how to navigate a situation of not wanting to resurrect others. Shinoa did not desire to resurrect Guren, indeed thought nothing further of him.
Sayuri Hanayori
Listening to Sayuri in class, who is a teacher and member of Guren's squad, Shinoa feels free to parade Yu's zero mark test around the class. They would be in the same battles in Shinjuku and Nagoya.
Mito Jūjō
A member of Guren's squad, Shinoa takes part in a practice fight against Mito along with Guren and Shinya. Whilst Shinoa plans for her and Mitsuba to engage the colonel Shinoa is then prevented from assisting her squad mates further in the skirmish when Mito steps on her scythe and pinning it to the ground.
Shigure Yukimi
Unknown to Shinoa she and her squad are monitored by Shigure when they clear out a vampire lair and free the humans within.
Narumi Squad
After experience of managing her own squad, Shinoa would come into contact with others such as Narumi Squad at the Ebina rest stop. In preparation for a vampire noble extermination mission, Shinoa would pay heed to Makoto's, a senior squad leader, direction. Offering apologies for Yu's behaviour, Shinoa would also come into conflict with members for her actions.
Makoto Narumi
Both squad leaders, Shinoa defers to Narumi's judgement in their joint mission but still adds her input. The two shake hands in partnership. When Shinoa lets Mikaela escape she is blamed by Narumi Squad for their comrades death, even by Narumi. Even after being threatened with unsanctioned corporal punishment afterwards, Shinoa protects Makoto from an incoming attack from a vampire. After a few months, the two seemed to have reconciled.
Rika Inoue
Not having been acquainted with Rika for long, the first time they are seen in actual contact is when they take part in a joint mission to defeat Lucal Wesker. After the Demon Army arrive at Shinjuku airport and Shinoa is approached and struck by Rika who blames Shinoa for her friend's deaths. She is threatened by Rika's sword and told she must pay. After apologizing Shinoa is yelled at and told to give her friends back until Narumi and then Shinya calm the situation.
Shusaku Iwasaki
Along with Shusaku, they take part in a successful operation to defeat Lucal. He escapes the vampire's ambush after Mika escapes with Yu due to Shinoa squad's actions and heads to the airport with everyone else.
Tarō Kagiyama
Shinoa squad and Narumi squad of which Kagiyama is a part of defeat their target without any casualties on their side. Later Kagiyama is killed by vampires when they are ambushed after Shinoa's allows Mika to escape with Yu.
Yayoi Endō
She fights alongside Yayoi during the vampire noble extermination mission. Due to her actions of allowing Mika to escape with Yu, Yayoi is killed by vampires when they are ambushed.
Vampires
After the catastrophe, Shinoa found herself relatively safe compared to other's from the Vampires that emerged to establish their control over the world. Being a human, Shinoa would generally be regarded as a food source by them at best. Once her squad was formed, Shinoa would tasked with destroying vampires in both pre-emptive, and defensive strikes.
Mikaela Hyakuya
Shinoa first met Mika when they were eight years old, while she was delivering messages from her sister, Mahiru Hīragi, to Guren. Eight years later at Shinjuku, they meet on the battlefield, however they do not remember or recognize each other. Shinoa was saved by Mika at the risk of his own life from Yūichirō when he suddenly goes berserk. She asks why and is ordered to get her filthy hands off Yu when she embraces him on Guren's orders to calm Yu. Shinoa keeps her promise to Yu to help him save Mika in Nagoya when she defends Mika from her compatriots in the Moon Demon Company. She even attacks Major General Shinya Hīragi to save Mika's life, and was labeled as a traitor as a result. Shinoa allows Mika to escape with Yu and tells him to meet up with them at the Nagoya Airport later on.
| “ | If you die, Yūichirō would be mad at us when he wakes up. Go on. Take Yūichirō with you and run. | ” |
–Defending Mika from her own comrades, and saying for him to leave with Yu. Chapter 35 "Traitorous Allies" | ||
Thanks to her intervention, the rest of her squad joins her, and Mika is able to flee with Yu. By the time the battle in Nagoya comes to a close, Shinoa is helped to escape the Demon Army and the vampires by Mika. Having prepared blood collected from the squad for him she is patient with Mika's distrust specifically concerning the experimentation on Yu. She calls for Mika's involvement to also get him away from interacting with Ferid. Shinoa eventually becomes one of the few humans Mika places trust in so far.
Shinoa continues to take care of Mika. Learning that Mika is in danger, she immediately decides to report it to Yu. She is overjoyed to see that Mika is fine and warns him about Mahiru. When Yu runs with Mika, her attitude towards Mika changes and she declares that she will kill Mika to get Yu back, thinking of Mika as a obstacle. Seeing that Yu is still fighting alongside Mika, she becomes angry.
Crowley Eusford
A vampire noble and Progenitor, Shinoa encounters Crowley when they head back to the stronghold after their first given mission and engages in a short round of combat with him. Although as the one issuing directions she is targeted by him in the end he withdraws and they are spared. Later when they are defeated in Shinjuku, Shinoa is pinned down by Crowley and has her blood drained. Later when Crowley defeats Tenth Progenitor Fuola Honte, Shinoa states she does not mind having a strong ally.
| “ | Well, er... You won't catch me complaining about our allies being too powerful. | ” |
–After seeing Crowley Eusford kill Fuola Honte easily Chapter 52 "Suspicious Mansion" | ||
Noticing him observing someone deceased in Ferid's manor, Shinoa would question if it was anyone he knows. Part of the same faction targeting Ky Luc, they would take part in the effort to free Ferid and Krul. Similarly Shinoa would head to Shibuya with Crowley as well. When her body was possessed by the First, it was used to attack Crowley with a multitude of scythes before beheading him. Meeting again after this event, once more Shinoa and Crowley would find themselves involved with the matter of human resurrection.
Ferid Bathory
A seventh progenitor that Shinoa first comes across at Shinjuku. Later, Ferid meets Shinoa Squad to take them to the Progenitor council. She agrees that they must first betray him before he betrays them, however they agree to work with him because they cannot trust anyone else. With no other recourse to fight or defend against Ferid's tactics such as showing the head of a family member to Yu, Shinoa is subdued as she guides her squad to get onto the bus.
| “ | There are clean clothes for us to change into. New, clean Demon Army uniforms, even. In other words, Ferid has a connection to the Demon Army. At this rate, it's possible that even his own crucifixion was all part of his plan. | ” |
–Considering Ferid's connections and plans to Mitsuba, and alert to what he is capable of. Chapter 54 "Sinner's Christmas" | ||
She is happier with him not in their presence. After rescuing him for the information he has access to Shinoa is greatly alarmed at turning to see what the show is that Ferid mentioned was behind her. At seeing Ferid naked and in a state of regeneration Shinoa resorted to her scythe to cut Ferid's head off. She sees Ferid near her when the first is possessing her.
Finding Ferid accompany them to Akihabara she would not pay too much mind to him. Unknown to her, Shinoa was observed by Ferid and when she was absorbing the First that appeared to factor into Ferid initiating his own murderous plan for others. Sensing Ferid after gaining the First's power, Shinoa referred to him as an enemy. Concealing herself, Shinoa did not reveal her squad's presence to Ferid when he landed in the area. She would watch as Ferid failed in his plan to defeat Saito, and disappear into nothing.
Krul Tepes
After deciding to rescue the vampire queen, third progenitor, Krul and failing Shinoa would find her again after escaping Demon Army territory together. After becoming and finding Krul enter the room Shinoa would regard her as a new challenger approaching. Rather than her getting Krul as she intended Shinoa finds herself restrained.
| “ | It looks like a new challenger has arrived! | ” |
–After becoming inebriated from drinking soda that was alcoholic, Shinoa decides to advance towards Krul. Chapter 95 "A Demon's Tale" page 41 | ||
While Shinoa was resisting the First's possession, she was pulled along by Krul. Given the circumstances, Shinoa questions Krul about her brother Ashera and wonders why he would be helping Shikama Doji.
When Krul talks about her brother and Yu's insanity, Shinoa treats her with disrespect, saying that she doesn't care about the situation with Asuramaru.
Ky Luc
A fifth progenitor, Shinoa prepares to assault Ky Luc along with the squad combined with Crowley in an attempt to free Krul and Ferid who were undergoing sun exposure torture. Shinoa would avoid being attacked by the fifth progenitor, yet would find Ky Luc escape with Krul for a not entirely successful mission.
By chance Shinoa would come across Ky Luc later in Shibuya. Evidently having located him, Shinoa prepared some of the First's spells in order to capture Ky Luc. Successfully ambushing him, Shinoa kept him restrained with shadowy bindings. Confident to have done so, Shinoa introduced herself as friendly neighborhood humans. In response to Ky Luc's anger, Shinoa spoke for him to break, of which her power could crush him into the ground.
Before him, Shinoa was upfront that she did not feel capable that she could engage Ky Luc head on. Regardless, that Shinoa was able to capture him led to her changing Ky Luc into cursed gear. Shinoa also thought to steal Ky Luc's memories for the information he had. Shinoa spoke freely that she was not the First and also divulged she was a human who had gained his powers. Having good reason to feel comfortable, Shinoa displayed that she could cut off Ky Luc's arms when he attempted to activate his weapon.
When Ky Luc attempted to talk, Shinoa had no reason of her own to do so. While Ky Luc tried to plead for his life, Shinoa's thoughts concerned all those who had been in his position before he killed them.
| “ | In all your long centuries of life... ...How many humans have said exactly that to you before you killed them? Now it's your turn to be on the other end of it. That's all. Give up... ...And let yourself become a demon. | ” |
–Countering Ky Luc's pleas and set on turning him into cursed gear. Chapter 143: "His Dreams" Page 7 | ||
Steady in keeping Ky Luc in place as the process was underway, Shinoa was content as his memories began to flow into her. At the time, Shinoa thought to make Ky Luc into a black demon cursed gear for Mitsuba to use. Indifferent to Ky Luc's transformation, and unswayed by anything he said, it was only when Ky Luc called for his mother was Shinoa affected. Beginning to cry, Shinoa was upset at the situation. Regardless, given the threat Ky Luc posed to not just her squad but others, Shinoa sustained the cursed gear process to seal Ky Luc.
| “ | Farewell, Ky Luc. Your fate is to become a piece of desire-devouring cursed gear. I'm sorry. But I have to make you a demon. | ” |
–Bidding Ky Luc goodbye. Chapter 143: "His Dreams" Page 28-29 | ||
Chess Belle
A seventeenth Progenitor, she finds Chess Belle as Crowley Eusford's aide alongside with Horn Skuld, serving under Ferid Bathory's faction. Shinoa's squad encounters her when they engage in combat with Crowley as they are heading back to the stronghold. Later when they are defeated in Shinjuku, Chess defeats Mitsuba and drinks her blood.
Horn Skuld
A seventeenth Progenitor, Horn Skuld is also Crowley Eusford's aide alongside with Chess Belle, serving under Ferid Bathory's faction. Shinoa's squad encounters her when they engage in combat with Crowley as they are heading back to the stronghold. Later when they are defeated in Shinjuku, Horn drinks Kimizuki's blood.
Lucal Wesker
A fifteenth Progenitor of Lest Karr's faction and stationed at Nagoya. Along with Narumi squad and Shinya they attempt to defeat Lucal Wesker before he teams up with other vampire nobles in the city wide operation. Shinoa joins the close quarter fight yet her scythe swung towards him is seized by Lucal and then Shinoa is lifted off her feet into the path of an incoming weapon. They defeat him as their assigned mission to take down the nobles in that area.
Esther Lee
A servant of Lucal Wesker, she would not see that Esther Lee is sacrificed as a meat shield when they ambush the vampire to kill him, yet Shinoa would engage his master Lucal.
Saitō
Whilst Shinoa's body was possessed by Shikama Dōji in Shibuya her physical being would come under attack from this second progenitor. Shinoa would almost be skewered by the chain weapons that Saitō sent jabbing towards her. While Yu was working with Saito, and Guren with Ferid and Mahiru were against him, Shinoa would still not share her views on the second progenitor himself.
Demons
Concentrating on the possessive nature of demons, Shinoa would be wary of them taking control of others. Heading to deal with a demonic possession incident, Shinoa would take Yu to a room filled with cursed gear weapons that demons resided in as part of a test. Wielding cursed gear scythe herself, Shinoa learns her demon Shikama Doji was the first progenitor.
Shikama Dōji
After her sister Mahiru extracted the demon Shikama Dōji from her, she forgot all about him. She regains her memory of him after Guren passes Shikama Dōji onto her by Mahiru's request.
Shinoa has become very affectionate and playful towards Shikama Dōji, always calling him "Shi-chan". The two shared the first character in their name, which alone, can mean "Four" or "Death". After he reveals his true personality Shinoa hears from him that she loves Yu and is much stronger than her sister Mahiru.[3]
After Shikama Dōji starts acting on his own and manifests without Shinoa permission she is tempted repeatedly with thoughts of turning Mika into a human and restoring Yu's humanity. He reveals that he is not actually a demon and would happily possess her instead of Kureto, this conversation angers Shinoa as she tells him to shut up to the point of shouting and silence him in rage which then she wakes up and states he may have possessed her sister Mahiru.[4]
She was able to fend off Shikama Dōji possession for a long time thanks to Mahiru's protection. He later invades Yu's heart for the intent to draw out Shinoa to possess her, which the latter succeeds. Shinoa's humanity and heart are now gone as Shikama Dōji has complete control over her body.
Even when possessed Shinoa's body benefits from the protection of the first who will protect his host. When Shinoa was about to be attacked by Ferid, he mercilessly sliced Ferid in half and cut off his sword wielding arm. Shinoa's body is used to attack Guren, Shinya, Kureto and Mika. After Saitō has arrived he engages in a battle against Shikama Dōji who is in Shinoa's body with the goal of restraining him.
At the risk of her body breaking Shinoa has Shikama Dōji leave Shinoa's body due to the sinful keys which were used by Guren, Mahiru and Noya. This also seals him away 'for the time being' which he brings up before leaving her body. In testing it, Shinoa wonders who will appear when she activates her curse gear. Employing her weapon to assist the squad's jeep in reaching Yu, she is relieved to find that it is the Shi scythe manifestation that appears, not the First in person.
Affected by a second possession attempt after leaving Nagoya, she helps undermine Shikama Doji who is searching for Mika's soul. Suspecting that Shikama Dōji may be weakened Shinoa derisively suggests he shake off what is making him uncomfortable, use her desires for possession, and comments how she has never seen him look this bad. Shinoa exploits Shikama Dōji's state to try and possess him but then chooses to warn Yu of Ashera instead and she sticks her tongue out at Shikama Dōji. With that challenged Shinoa drew on her desires for Yu to transform into a demon where she meant to overtake him.[5]
After turning into a demon in order to try and contain the First, Shinoa concentrates on stopping him interfering with Yu trying to help Mika. To that end Shinoa even offers the long-sought goal of Shikama Doji's.
| “ | No! You're not going anywhere! Here! You can possess me! That's what you've wanted, right?! | ” |
–Shouting at Shikama Doji to offer herself for possession to attempt to dissuade him leaving for Yu and Mika. Chapter 103 "The Sky Awaits Them Both", page 19 | ||
Not caring when the First remarks that the offer to let him possess her is to protect Yu, she orders him to come over to prevent him from departing. After casting a scythe at the First, Shinoa finds that her power is gone. Having reflected on the matter of Yu departing the squad and her own sense of self-worth, Shinoa has Shikama Doji in mind as a demon to control. Having processed what she was made for, Shinoa found her desires could allow her to control Kiseki-o and Gekkouin, and Shikama Doji was next.
| “ | I'm still ever-so-slightly connected to you... ...Shi. I made sure to pick a time when I knew you didn't want me to come. | ” |
–Aware of a lingering connection to the First, Shinoa opportunistically seizes her chance. Chapter 133: "Maidens in Love" Page 32 | ||
Rallying herself, Shinoa rhetorically asks the First did he have her created and was he responsible for her and Mahiru's fates. Finding that she is able to absorb the darkness power fired by the First at her, Shinoa is elated in attempting a second round of her own to overcome Shikama Doji. Ultimately, Shinoa would succeed.
| “ | He tried to absorb me, so absorbed him instead. | ” |
–Overcoming Shikama Doji and acquiring his power. Chapter 139: "Two Monsters" Page 5 | ||
Asuramaru
Knowing Asuramaru as Yu's demon, Shinoa also inferred that "Ashera" was another name for him. It is because of Shinoa learning this from Shikama Doji contacting Asuramaru that Yu was able to reach Mika in time.[5]
| “ | It seems, unfortunately... ...That Asuramaru is an enemy. I heard Shikama Dōji ordering him to capture Mika's soul. | ” |
–Warning Yu of the first's connection with his demon Chapter 99 "Mortal Love" page 40-41 | ||
When Yu had entered a demon state in Akihabara she would observe him physically as he was in the process of consuming Asuramaru's power.
Gekkouin
Familiar with Yoichi's demon Gekkouin she would have seen the cursed bow projectiles fired by the weapon. Shinoa would see Gekkouin himself physically summoned to the world by her own hand. His name was the first one spoken by Shinoa when she was testing her power to control demons.
Kiseki-o
Knowing Kiseki-o as Kimizuki's sword weapon, Shinoa would also see him manifest before her. Along with Gekkouin, she was able to summon Kiseki-o to herself as well.