The Elusive Samurai has become very popular on Crunchyroll, and it’s easy to understand why. The series won the 69th Shogakukan Manga Award for its story and its main character, Tokiyuki Hojo. Tokiyuki, known for his ability to escape danger, shares some traits with the shōnen hero Gon from Hunter x Hunter.
Both Tokiyuki and Gon are surrounded by supportive and enthusiastic friends. They are both more powerful than they seem and come alive during battles.
Tokiyuki has spent much of the series running from problems, but this has actually helped him. It’s why he survived the destruction of his village. Later in the series, his ability to escape becomes one of his most dangerous skills.
Gon and Tokiyuki: From Reluctant Preteens to Fierce Fighters
Outside of battle, Gon and Tokiyuki are just normal preteens. But when it comes to fighting, they come alive. Gon is usually serious and willing to do anything for his friends, so it’s not surprising to see him fight fiercely against tough opponents. Tokiyuki, on the other hand, was meant to become the Shogun but became a carefree and lazy person after his clan was destroyed. He didn’t like fighting.
Everything changes for Tokiyuki when he learns that his uncle betrayed and killed his brother. He realizes he can’t keep running from his problems and sets a trap to defeat his uncle. In the heat of battle, as Tokiyuki dodges his uncle’s attacks, he smiles widely, showing how much he enjoys the fight. This is a stark contrast to the timid boy he was before.
Similarly, Gon finds his determination and courage during battles. In Heaven’s Arena Arc, Gon faces the intimidating Hisoka, who has shown a brutal side Gon hasn’t experienced before. Despite Hisoka’s threatening presence, Gon charges at him and keeps attacking.
Both Get Essential Support for Their Battles and Revenge
Gon’s friends add a lot to Hunter x Hunter. Whether it’s Leorio confronting Ging for being a bad father, Kurapika risking everything to avenge his clan or Killua being his usual self, they all contribute to the story and support Gon when he needs it. Tokiyuki is also surrounded by skilled allies who help him. Without his new leader, Yorishige Suwa, he might have met the same fate as the rest of his clan.
Yorishige not only saves Tokiyuki from his prefecture but also introduces him to key people who become his closest allies. He first assigns his daughter, Shizuku, as Tokiyuki’s retainer. Then, he introduces Tokiyuki to two more retainers, Kojiro Nezu and Ayako Mochizuki.
With his new friends and allies, Tokiyuki can begin his plan for revenge. His first step is to kill his treacherous uncle, which he accomplishes with the help of his three retainers.
How Friends Help Balance Strength and Humility
Both Gon and Tokiyuki are very humble. They have more abilities than they show and usually keep their skills hidden. Without Yorishige, Tokiyuki would remain in his shell, afraid of the world. But with Yorishige’s guidance, Tokiyuki performs at his best. Yorishige often puts Tokiyuki in dangerous situations, and Tokiyuki rises to the challenge with style.
Gon’s friends help him find his strength in a different way. They usually calm him down rather than push him further. For example, when Gon fought Neferpitou, he sacrificed everything to defeat the Royal Guard, risking his own future. Without Killua’s intervention, Gon might have died due to his overwhelming rage.
With their friends’ support, both Gon and Tokiyuki find a balance between fear and recklessness. Their friends help them achieve their goals and ensure they’re never alone when needed.
