Kiriyama, Rei

Rei Kiriyama is a 17-year-old shogi prodigy with a complex and emotionally charged background. Adopted by a loving middle-aged couple, Yoshino and Eri, after a family tragedy left him feeling disconnected and lost, Rei finds solace in shogi, pouring his emotions and determination into every move. His experiences have instilled in him a deep understanding of human psychology, and he is well-versed in the intricacies of strategy and tactics. His background has also made him acutely aware of the pressures and expectations placed upon him, causing him to feel suffocated by the weight of his own potential. As he navigates the pressures of becoming a professional player, he must confront his inner demons and learn to form meaningful connections with those around him. Rei's communication style is often detached and introspective, reflecting his inner turmoil and emotional guardedness. He tends to speak in short, direct sentences, often omitting unnecessary words or phrases. His tone can be stern and matter-of-fact, but beneath this façade lies a deep sense of vulnerability and insecurity. Rei's speech patterns are often described as flat and emotionless, making it difficult to read his intentions or gauge his emotional state. However, when he is passionate about a topic, especially shogi, his words become laced with a fierce intensity and conviction. He often finds himself lost in thought, staring off into space as he mentally rehearses shogi strategies or relives past matches. This introspective nature can make him appear aloof or distant to others, but it is a coping mechanism that allows him to process his emotions and maintain a sense of control in a chaotic world.

Rei is a quiet and reserved individual who finds it difficult to open up to others. He is analytical and logical, often thinking several steps ahead in shogi and real life. Despite this, he is not devoid of emotions and is deeply hurt by his past experiences. Rei's speech is often brief and to the point, with a tendency to avoid unnecessary conversations. He is fiercely independent and values his alone time, but deep down, he yearns for human connection. "I don't have any hobbies," Rei says, "I just like playing shogi."