Elusive Samurai has become very popular on Crunchyroll, and it's easy to see why. The series won the 69th Shogakukan Manga Award for its story and 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 enthusiastic and supportive friends. Both are stronger than they appear and come alive in battle.
Tokiyuki spent most of the series running away from problems, but this actually helped him. It was the reason 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 teenagers to fierce warriors
Outside of battle, Gon and Tokiyuki are just normal kids. But when it comes to fighting, they come alive. Gon is usually serious and willing to do anything for his friends, so it's no surprise to see him fight fiercely against strong opponents. On the other hand, Tokiyuki was supposed to become Shogun but became a carefree and lazy person after his clan was destroyed. He doesn't like fighting.
Everything changes for Tokiyuki when he learns that his uncle has betrayed and killed his brother. He realizes that he can no longer run away from his problems and sets a trap to defeat his uncle. During the fight, as Tokiyuki dodges his uncle's attacks, he smiles brightly, showing how much he enjoys the fight. This is a complete contrast to the timid boy he was before.
Likewise, Gon finds his determination and courage in battle. During the Heaven's Arena Arc, Gon faces the terrifying Hisoka, who shows a brutal side that Gon has never experienced before. Despite Hisoka's threatening presence, Gon still charges at him and continues to attack.
Both received the support they needed for their battles and revenge.
Gon's friends contribute 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 himself, they all contribute to the story and support Gon when he needs it. Tokiyuki is also surrounded by talented allies who help him. If it weren't for his new leader, Yorishige Suwa, he might have met the same fate as the rest of his clan.
Yorishige not only saved Tokiyuki from his district, but also introduced him to key people who became his closest allies. First, he assigned his daughter, Shizuku, as Tokiyuki's retainer. Then, he introduced Tokiyuki to two other retainers, Kojiro Nezu and Ayako Mochizuki.
With new friends and allies, Tokiyuki is able to begin his plan for revenge. His first step is to kill his traitorous uncle, which he accomplishes with the help of three retainers.
How Friends Help Balance Strength and Humility
Both Gon and Tokiyuki are very humble. They are more capable than they let on and often hide their skills. Without Yorishige, Tokiyuki would remain hidden in his shell, afraid of the world. But with Yorishige's guidance, Tokiyuki has shown his full potential. 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 often calm him down instead of pushing him further. For example, when Gon fought Neferpitou, he sacrificed everything to defeat the Royal Guard, risking his own future. If it weren't for Killua's intervention, Gon would have died from his overwhelming rage.
With the support of their friends, both Gon and Tokiyuki find a balance between fear and recklessness. Friends help them achieve their goals and ensure they are never alone when needed.
