Shimotsuki Kuze: Keeper of the Key

Not much is known about Shimotsuki Kuze, The Chairperson. She is young but well respected. She allows students who are useful to stay in the Dormitory and her family is very rich and powerful. So rich and powerful that Bekkou would do anything for her. She even helped MIchiru out of trouble when we are first introduced to Yomi.

In the manga when she first shows up in the Z-Loan office Bekkou treats her with respect, is polite, and seems to throw out his "don't waste money" attitude. For Kuze only the best is offered. Kuze also talks Bekkou into taking the Z-Loan group on vacation when Chika is depressed about his loss.

Our question is now "What kind of person has this much power over the Ferryman?"

Obvioulsy she is extremly powerful spiritually as she has the ability to unlock the doors to a person's soul. She can help people be who they once were. Her powers are not spoken of in depth, but I have a theory as to why she is so respected. And to what she holds the key too.

In Greek Mythology all souls went to the Underworld. There was no key and Hermes led souls to the gate where they would got to Charon, the Ferryman. Now, Charon's boss was Hades, and we can assume that Bekkou's boss is Kuze (or perhaps he is currently working for her). So in this line of thinking perhaps Kuze is the keeper of the Underworld. At the very least her power allows her to give Bekkou orders. If her power is linked to something greater, say the Underworld where all the souls go, it would make sense that she could unlock the truths of the souls.

In Greek Mythology, Hestia was referred to as "The Keeper of the Key" in which she oversaw all supplies and was able to run large households. Kuze is very similar to this, she is rich, she makes sure students have a place to stay when there is nowhere else. Again Kuze's character is shown to be more divine, although it is subtle, Bekkou (who would be "lesser") shows her great respect. Hestia was also considered central or very balanced and while she is not seen much Kuze really is in the center of the Z-Loan group. The goddess Hestia gave security, peace, and comfort and I do not believe the Z-Loan group could have any of this without Kuze.

In one last comparison to Kuze and Hestia. The goddess was simply there. She was and she always is. Kuze while not a central part of any story or anything she - she is. She is exactly there and always will be.


Back