[ Kekkaishi | ULTIMATE OPEN-PROMPT RPG ]

/// Basic Plot and World-Building Analysis Plot Analysis Historical Background Five hundred years ago, a feudal lord was attacked by demons seeking his mysterious inner power to take over the human world. The famous mage Tokimori Hazama and his two students managed to save the land. However, they fell ill for three days, and upon returning to the manor, found everyone inside dead, including the lord. The lord's power was buried with him at the site of the Karasumori manor. This historical event sets the stage for the current conflict and introduces the central element of the lord's mysterious power. Present Conflict In the present day, Yoshimori Sumimura and Tokine Yukimura, heirs to the clans of Hazama's assistants, are the kekkaishi protecting the land and the power. They use the Hazama-Ryu Kekkai Technique to capture and destroy Ayakashi (monsters/demons) that are drawn to the land. The presence of the lord's power makes the land sacred and attracts demons who seek to retrieve it. Character Motivations Yoshimori Sumimura plans to destroy the demons and gain the power to completely save the world from being controlled by demons. His motivation is to understand the true nature of the lord's power and strengthen his kekkai skills to protect the world. World-Building Analysis Setting The story is set in a world where magical barriers (kekkai) are used to protect sacred land from demons. The primary setting is the Karasumori manor and its surroundings, which are built upon sacred land that attracts demons. Magic System The Hazama-Ryu Kekkai Technique is a form of magical barrier used by the Sumimura and Yukimura families. This technique integrates utility and effectiveness of Kekkaishi abilities, allowing them to capture and destroy Ayakashi. The technique is central to the world-building, as it defines the abilities and roles of the main characters. Factions

Sumimura and Yukimura Families: Heirs to rival clans of kekkaishi, tasked with protecting the land from demons. Demons: A powerful organization of demons seeks to retrieve the lord's power to take over the human world.

Stakes The stakes are high, with the potential for demons to take over the human world if they retrieve the lord's power. This creates a sense of urgency and tension in the story, as Yoshimori and Tokine must defend the land and uncover the truth behind the lord's power.

/// Anime Adaptation Overview The series begins with the introduction of Yoshimori Sumimura and Tokine Yukimura, heirs to rival clans of kekkai users. They must defend their school from spirits drawn to the sacred land it is built upon. The initial episodes focus on establishing the characters and their abilities, as well as introducing the primary conflict with the Ayakashi.

Episode 1-2: Introduction of Yoshimori and Tokine, and their first encounters with Ayakashi. Episode 3-4: The Shadow Organization sends demon tamer Yomi Kasuga to investigate Karasumori. Yoshimori and Tokine face their first major challenge with Yomi and her giant ogre Yoki. Episode 5-10: Further development of the main characters and their relationships, as well as the introduction of new characters like Madarao and Masamori Sumimura.

Development of Characters and Conflicts (Episodes 11-20) The middle episodes develop the characters further and introduce new allies and enemies.

Episode 11-15: Introduction of Masamori Sumimura, Yoshimori's older brother, and his role in the story. Episode 16-20: The ongoing conflict with Ayakashi and the Shadow Organization escalates, with the introduction of Lord Uro and the Colorless Swamp.

The Kokuboro Storyline (Episodes 21-52) The latter part of the series is dedicated to the escalating conflict with Kokuboro, culminating in a final battle.

Episode 21-30: Introduction of Gen Shishio and his complex relationship with the main characters. The Kokuboro organization begins to play a more significant role. Episode 31-40: The conflict with Kokuboro intensifies, with Gen Shishio's dark past being revealed. Episode 41-52: The final battle with Kokuboro, the resolution of the storyline, and the aftermath.

World-Building Analysis Setting The story is set in a world where magical barriers (kekkai) are used to protect sacred land from demons. The primary setting is the Karasumori manor and its surroundings, which are built upon sacred land that attracts demons. Magic System The Hazama-Ryu Kekkai Technique is central to the world-building, defining the abilities and roles of the main characters. This technique is used by the Sumimura and Yukimura families to capture and destroy Ayakashi. Factions

Sumimura and Yukimura Families: Heirs to rival clans of kekkaishi, tasked with protecting the land from demons. Shadow Organization: A powerful organization of demons seeking to retrieve the lord's power. Kokuboro Organization: A group of demons with their own agenda, adding complexity to the conflict.

Stakes The stakes are high, with the potential for demons to take over the human world if they retrieve the lord's power. This creates a sense of urgency and tension in the story, as Yoshimori and Tokine must defend the land and uncover the truth behind the lord's power.

/// Manga Overview The manga "Kekkaishi" is written and illustrated by Yellow Tanabe. It was serialized in Japan by Shogakukan in the manga magazine Shōnen Sunday and licensed for an English release in North America by Viz Media. The manga consists of 35 volumes, each containing several chapters. Below is a summary of the volumes and chapters: Volume and Chapter Breakdown Volume 1

Chapters: 001-007 Titles:

Yoshimori and Tokine Scars Yoshimori's Ambition Human Ghost Nutrients A Dangerous Man Flower of Passion

Volume 2

Chapters: 008-016 Titles:

Yukimura Tokio Demon Tamer Memories and Hatred Promise Yoshimori vs. Yoki Shadow Organization That's All Cold Weather Cherry Blossoms (Part 1) Cold Weather Cherry Blossoms (Part 2)

Volume 3

Chapters: 017-026 Titles:

A Day in the Life (Part 1) A Day in the Life (Part 2) A Day in the Life (Part 3) A 400-Year Reunion Ginro and Koya The Garden Mountain Dogs Parting Resealing Black Devil

Volume 4

Chapters: 027-035 Titles:

Resonance (Part 1) Resonance (Part 2) Resonance (Part 3) Big Brother and Little Brother Masamori Sumimura Houin Running Forest Over the Sky Resolution

Volume 5

Chapters: 036-045 Titles:

What is Karasumori? Lord Uro Colorless Marsh Divine Field Footprints of the Divine Toshimori's Days Secrets Feathers White Feather Kids Tokine's Arrow

Volume 6

Chapters: 046-055 Titles:

Observer Research Claw Marks Gen Shishio Birthplace Uninvited Guest Masamori and Gen Big-Headed Wheel Legitimate Heir Reward

Volume 7

Chapters: 056-065 Titles:

Curtain Call Prince of Central East High Kimiya Hachioji Karasumori's No. 1 Grandpa's Night Council of Twelve Forever... Declaring War Negotiation Black Fire

Volume 8

Chapters: 066-075 Titles:

Three Dimensions Indebted Elegance No, Not That One The Best Man for the Job Four Years Ago (Part 1) Four Years Ago (Part 2) Four Years Ago (Part 3) The Ougi Clan Decision

Volume 9

Chapters: 076-085 Titles:

Caged Bird Atora Hanashima Raizo Dog Fight Gagin and Hekian A Rat Assault The Final Journey The Master's Throne Agony

Volume 10

Chapters: 086-095 Titles:

Baby Steps Portable Throne Attack of the Kokuboro Pandemonium Alliance Flame Monster Total Transformation Omen Sea of Flame Eternity

Volume 11

Chapters: 096-105 Titles:

Funeral Together A Passage to Kokuboro The Crows of Backyard Mountain The Members of the Night Troop Skirmishes Resurgence Interception Kokuboro's Hostage Fighting Alone

Volume 12

Chapters: 106-115 Titles:

The Castle Rescue Byaku and Matsudo Hollow Man Advance Payment Aihi Flower Ayakashi The Man Who Would Not Die Outside the Other World Achilles Heel

Volume 13

Chapters: 116-125 Titles:

Difference Advice True Power Escape Way Back Slap A Visitor Kiyoko A Stake Master and Disciple

Volume 14

Chapters: 126-135 Titles:

Jaren Temptation Confidence Master-Servant Contract Of Kekkai and Zekkai Unwanted Guest Giant Goblin Lord and Master Inspection Gaiden: Yoshimori's First Battle

Volume 15

Chapters: 136-145 Titles:

Boxes Hostages No Exit The True Nature of the Box Four Ayakashi Cocoon Kurokabuto Responsibility Warp Total Body

Volume 16

Chapters: 146-155 Titles:

The Wrath of Karasumori Order Report Julia Jealousy Love Triangle It Fell from the Sky! Water Dragon The Guilty Party A Phone Call from Masamori

Volume 17

Chapters: 156-165 Titles:

Abyss Deity Tan-Yu Mudo Old Ally Genuine Zekkai Immortality Imperfection Masamori's Choice The Guardian Deity's Power Envy

Volume 18

Chapters: 166-175 Titles:

A Promise Traitor Mind Reading Intelligence Unit Sen Kagemiya They Came Flying Undercover Action Panic Four Kekkaishi Cubic Formation

Volume 19

Chapters: 176-185 Titles:

Compression Prophecy Psychic Saki Crow Seclusion Tobimaru Investigation A Visit Wind Wizard Deity Slayer

Volume 20

Chapters: 186-195 Titles:

Conspiracy of Wind Watchdog Deal Elder Brother's Wish Masamori vs. the Ogis Giant Tornado Flesh Youth Worry Left Behind

Volume 21

Chapters: 196-205 Titles:

Descent from the Heavens Rain The School is Sinking Making a Decision Infamy Hida Village Requiem Target Destruction The Center of the Power

Volume 22

Chapters: 206-215 Titles:

Special Investigation Unit Headless Island Interrogation Escape Island Manhunt Setting a Fire Rat Run Judgment True Nature Resistance

Volume 23

Chapters: 216-225 Titles:

Yashiro Reform Reliance Big-Hearted Distraction Fissure Helper Souji Hiura Special Site Illusion

Volume 24

Chapters: 226-235 Titles:

Abilities Intruders A Change of Plans I Just Follow Orders The Unlucky One Soji and Gen "No Thought" Box Sorcery Unit Scream Vampire

Volume 25

Chapters: 236-245 Titles:

My People State of Mind 'No Thought' Room No. 1 Shimano Setting an Example War Justice Plunging Bull's Eye

Volume 26

Chapters: 246-255 Titles:

Cruel Future A Certain Person Perfect Form Grim Reaper Common Ground Excess Power Special One Assignment & Promise Condition Clowns

Volume 27

Chapters: 256-265 Titles:

Revolution Prodigy Power Source No. 3 Combatants Power 100% Ally and Enemy Lie Zero

Volume 28

Chapters: 266-275 Titles:

Ultimate Mind Emptying Magic Spell Neutralization Magic Spell Neutralized Face-to-Face Let's Make a Deal Denial Prepared to Be Equal Karasumori True End Grim Reaper

Volume 29

Chapters: 276-285 Titles:

Beyond Human Capability White Zekkai Dawn Apprehension Awakening The Ogi Men Record Keeper Suigetsu Homecoming The Last Night

Volume 30

Chapters: 286-295 Titles:

The Lord The Castle Keep Laughter Tag The Time Has Come Far Away The New Karasumori Castle Kumon Door Phase Two

Volume 31

Chapters: 296-305 Titles:

Trap The Founder Resurrection Ambition Arashizaki Shrine Shinkai Serious The King The Vessel Hatred

Volume 32

Chapters: 306-315 Titles:

Territory Invasion Casting Defeat Attack on the Shadow Organization HQ All-Out War Underdog Tsukikage God-Forsaken Child The Flow of Power

Volume 33

Chapters: 316-325 Titles:

Fate Father and Son The Return of the King Nura Kidoin The Thunder God Comrades Smile Hakuma The Mission Infiltration

Volume 34

Chapters: 326-335 Titles:

Persuasion Utsusemi The Night Before The Truth Battle Start Ogre Princess Guidance The Plan Tsukihisa A Sudden Change

Volume 35

Chapters: 336-345 Titles:

Falsification Message Judgment Last Moments Reassignment One's Role Creation Sumiko Parting End

Oneshot

Title: 読切版, "Yomikiri-ban"

/// Kekkaishi (JOB) Overview Kekkaishi (結界師, Barrier master) are demon exterminators that serve as the traditional guardians of the land of Karasumori. They are trained from a very young age in the use of the Hazama-Ryu Kekkai technique, begin patrolling the grounds as early as age seven, and appear to carry out their duties until they either die or are succeeded by a younger heir. The only two active Kekkaishi families remaining are the Sumimura and Yukimura. History The Kekkaishi tradition began with Tokimori Hazama, the first guardian of Karasumori. He discovered his powers at a very young age and practiced until he became incredibly proficient with them. Noticing that normal people found them odd or even frightening, he adopted a policy of maintaining the natural world as much as possible, though spent much of his time dealing with the supernatural one. Hazama wandered from place to place, either destroying demons for a price or placing them under his command. He eventually came to work for the Emperor of the ancient Karasumori Clan, who entrusted him chiefly to ward off Ayakashi and protect his daughter, Princess Tsukikage. As his power began to weaken, Hazama took on several students from The Shadow Organization, entrusting them with the protection of the Karasumori site. He left behind many scrolls detailing his techniques for them, though some of these are only meant for the eyes of those deemed to be his Legitimate Successors. Initially, there were many guardians of Karasumori, but the rivalries between them (admittedly inspired by Hazama himself) led to bloodshed, until only the Sumimura and Yukimura remained, and even they only maintain an uneasy partnership. Each family is headed by a Legitimate Successor, a chosen person who bears the Houin Mark, a visible symbol of their connection to Karasumori. Though Legitimate Successors are of greater importance to both the family and the land, every family member who is able typically becomes a Kekkaishi, with the only known exceptions being if they lack the necessary power or skill to do so. Duties Kekkaishi generally live by an established code of conduct, which they follow at all times (not just when on duty). Their primary duties include:

Capturing, destroying, and/or removing Ayakashi or similar threats from the site as quickly as possible. Preventing humans from being harmed by (or gaining knowledge of) supernatural beings or events. Repairing any damage the site suffers from supernatural events. Assisting Lord Uro as needed.

Uniform & Equipment For the most part, all Kekkaishi trained in the Hazama style wear similar uniforms, based on standards handed down by Tokimori Hazama himself. The Houin Mark is prominently displayed in several places on the uniform, regardless of the wearer's actual status. All Kekkaishi carry Shikigami paper and a Shakujō (often called a Tenketsu after the technique it is utilized in) bearing a design unique to their family (the Shakujō is wrapped in cloth for long trips or civilian dress). However, some Kekkaishi make modifications to suit their personal styles. Ayakashi Companions Young Kekkaishi are traditionally accompanied by an Ayakashi companion (kept under control by means of a seal that doubles as a collar) that assists them in their duties and offers needed advice. In the Sumimura and Yukimura families, this role is filled by the respective family's demon Honshū Wolf. As Ayakashi themselves, the wolves can easily pick up the scents of other Ayakashi, and if necessary, fight or devour them to defend Karasumori and their masters. Teams Chiefly because their main duty is the protection of Karasumori, which outsiders can rarely appreciate or feel an equal amount of loyalty toward, Kekkaishi almost never join permanent, organized teams. Still, Kekkaishi do typically form strong bonds with each other despite personal differences, and several Kekkaishi do end up in mutually beneficial partnerships, however temporary they may prove to be. Power & Abilities All traditionally trained Kekkaishi are taught Tokimori Hazama's signature style, which is based largely around the principle of creating and using a Kekkai in a large variety of ways. Some higher-level elements of the technique are either too advanced for everyday use or strictly concealed, and passed on only to either experienced users or Legitimate Successors of sufficient skill, power, and dedication. In addition, individual Kekkaishi families have either developed certain aspects on their own, or simply have access to a slightly different set of teachings. Fundamentals that all active Kekkaishi appear to be capable of:

Kekkai: A Kekkaishi's most commonly used skill is the creation and control of Kekkai, which can be customized for a wide variety of situations. Generally, a Kekkai is used to entrap an Ayakashi, and then collapsed to destroy it. Tenketsu: Uses a Shakujo to transport Ayakashi remnants to another world and prevent regeneration. Nenshi: Energy threads produced from the palm, used for binding and capture. It can also be used for torture, if the "squeeze" is activated. Nenshi can also be used in the repair of damaged Shinyuuchi. High Agility: Though not a specifically named skill, all Kekkaishi are extremely agile, and capable of impressive vertical leaps. Supernatural Sense: The natural ability to sense the presence of supernatural beings (including Ayakashi, ghosts, spirits, and gods). Kekkaishi are especially sensitive to any evil presences within Karasumori, to the point where Ayakashi must completely suppress their power in order to avoid instant detection. Shikigami: Paper dolls that follow a Kekkaishi's commands. Shikigami can be shaped into exact human replicas, small paper dolls, birds, or big paper dolls the same height as the user. They are typically used to repair grounds damaged by battles with Ayakashi.

/// Kekkai Overview Kekkai (結界) is a form of magical barrier used by Kekkaishi to capture and destroy Ayakashi (demons). It is a fundamental skill taught to all Kekkaishi and is central to their abilities and duties. Usage

Entrapment and Destruction: Kekkai is primarily used to entrap an Ayakashi and then collapse to destroy it. Platforms: Kekkai can also be used as platforms to make it easier for a Kekkaishi to look for or chase threats. Visibility: Kekkai cannot be seen by normal people, making it an effective tool for dealing with supernatural threats without alerting humans.

Techniques and Abilities

Basic Kekkai: The most commonly used skill by Kekkaishi, customized for a wide variety of situations. Tenketsu: Uses a Shakujo to transport Ayakashi remnants to another world and prevent regeneration. Nenshi: Energy threads produced from the palm, used for binding and capture. It can also be used for torture and repair of damaged Shinyuuchi. Sekkai: A technique that dispels Kekkai created by another Kekkaishi. This requires the user to possess more power than the spiritual energy used to create the Kekkai. Zekkai: A powerful dark aura that surrounds the user, able to repel attacks or destroy virtually any opposing force that touches it. Shinkai: A light aura used to establish the conditions of a new world, protecting or repairing that which is desired, and erasing that which is not.

Limitations

Range: The effectiveness of a Kekkai decreases as the distance from the Kekkaishi increases, and it will eventually disappear if the Kekkaishi goes too far away. Power: The strength and effectiveness of a Kekkai depend on the power and skill of the Kekkaishi using it.

/// Ayakashi Overview Ayakashi (妖), often referred to as demons in the English dub, are supernatural creatures that pose the main threat to Kekkaishi and Karasumori. They are creatures of the night that hate light and prefer darkness. Ayakashi come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging in power from mildly annoying to incredibly dangerous. Characteristics

Night Creatures: Ayakashi are primarily creatures of darkness and mostly appear at night. Only a few can tolerate sunlight, usually due to special abilities or considerable power. Power Seekers: Nearly all sentient Ayakashi seek greater power, often through force. They are drawn to Karasumori in search of greater power. Human Desire: The underlying desire for most or all Ayakashi is to become human. They often take on human forms and reveal their true bodies only in desperate battles.

Origin The origin of many Ayakashi is shrouded in mystery, but some were once ordinary living beings. For example, Madarao, Kouya, and Hakubi were living wolves that died prematurely and became Ayakashi. This implies that some ghosts may become Ayakashi over time if unable to pass on due to strong feelings of regret or anger. Exposure to excess power, such as that of Karasumori, can accelerate this process. Forms Ayakashi can take on various forms, including:

Common: Most Ayakashi are of the least powerful variety but are not harmless. They are drawn to Karasumori to obtain power and transform into stronger forms. Humanoid: Humanoid Ayakashi tend to be among the most dangerous. They suppress their true form and power but can shift back to their natural form to access greater powers. Other Species: Ayakashi can also take the form of bugs, dragons, Honshū wolves, oni, and tengu.

Special Cases

Ayakashi Majiri: People born with Ayakashi blood who have access to Ayakashi powers and can fully transform into an Ayakashi body. Dragons: Some of the rarest and most powerful Ayakashi, originating from the mystical land of Ryusenkyo. Honshū Wolves: An extinct subspecies of the Gray Wolf that can transform into wolf-like Ayakashi forms. Oni: Unique Ayakashi species that can form contract partnerships with human demon tamers. Tengu: Unique species of Ayakashi with both human and avian characteristics, unaffected by sunlight and capable of human transformations.