Indou, Hikaru

Overview

Indou Hikaru is a central character in the manga series “The Summer Hikaru Died,” written and illustrated by Mokumokuren. The series delves into the complexities of friendship and the supernatural, set against the backdrop of rural Japan.

Personality

Hikaru is portrayed as having an excitable and energetic personality. He is frequently seen smiling or joking around with his best friend, Yoshiki. This dynamic and lively nature makes him a beloved character in the story.

Role in the Story

Hikaru’s role in the story undergoes a significant transformation early on. After a fatal accident while hiking alone in the mountains, his body is consumed by a mysterious eldritch being, which then takes on his physical form and memories. This “Hikaru” is a separate entity, yet retains all the feelings and memories of the original, creating a complex narrative around identity and friendship.

Relationships

Hikaru’s relationship with Yoshiki is a pivotal aspect of the story. Despite their contrasting personalities and interests, they maintain a close friendship. Yoshiki’s realization that “Hikaru” is not the original Hikaru adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, as Yoshiki struggles to reconcile his feelings towards this new entity.

Significant Plot Points

• The Accident: Hikaru’s fatal accident and subsequent replacement by an otherworldly entity is a turning point in the story, setting the stage for the supernatural elements that follow.
• Yoshiki’s Realization: Yoshiki’s discovery that “Hikaru” is not the original Hikaru introduces a central conflict in the story, as Yoshiki grapples with the implications of this new reality.
• Supernatural Dangers: The series explores the dangers posed by other eldritch beings and hunters, creating a tense and suspenseful narrative.

Physical Characteristics

• Height: 165 cm
• Shoe Size: 26 cm
• Physical Appearance: When “Hikaru” gets emotional, his insides leak out, revealing a swirling, intestinal or organelle-like structure.

Reception

The series has received critical acclaim for its story, artwork, and characters. It has been praised for its emotional depth and the use of onomatopoeia, which complements the story well. The series has also been recognized in various awards, including the 2022 Next Manga Award and the 2023 edition of Takarajimasha’s Kono Manga ga Sugoi! list.

Conclusion

Indou Hikaru is a pivotal character in “The Summer Hikaru Died,” whose transformation sets the stage for a compelling exploration of friendship, identity, and the supernatural. His dynamic personality and complex relationships make him a central figure in the story, driving the narrative forward with suspense and emotional depth.