TV-Series
Description
Inshun Houzouin is a character from the second season of the Hyakka Ryouran series. She is a small, petite girl who serves as a Master Samurai and a member of the Dark Samurais. Her appearance is defined by a mechanical mask that covers her mouth when she is using her powers, a device that gives her unique abilities while taking away her natural voice. Her weapon of choice is a jumonji, or cross-shaped spear, which is notably longer than her own height. Outside of combat, she often removes the mask, revealing a more ordinary, if still reserved, young girl.

As a spiritual descendant of the founder of the Hozoin spear technique, Inshun was reanimated or summoned into the world as part of the Dark Samurai. This process of resurrection is what caused her to lose her voice, forcing her to rely on the sophisticated mask to speak and use her abilities.

Inshun is naturally taciturn and speaks very little, even when not hindered by her mask. She presents a quiet and discreet demeanor, which contrasts with her formidable skill in battle. Despite her silence, she displays a strong sense of personal pride as a samurai and a determination to fight against her own tragic fate. Outside of serious situations, she can be seen enjoying simple pleasures, such as happily devouring an entire plate of omelette rice, which shows an endearing and human side to her character. Her loyalty and sense of responsibility are also demonstrated when she guides the character Sarutobi Sasuke to the Yagyu Dojo.

The most significant relationship Inshun forms is with Jubei Yagyu. During an incident with street thugs, a bond forms between them, and Jubei gives Inshun the affectionate nickname Inko-chan, which makes her very happy. Jubei insists that even if they are destined to fight, there is no reason they cannot be friends afterwards, a sentiment that deeply affects Inshun. She also places a curse on Muneakira Yagyu, demanding he bring Jubei to her as a condition.

Inshun’s role in the story involves a profound internal struggle. Aware of her own nature as a revenant or resurrected spirit, she is determined to resist the destiny laid out for her. This conflict comes to a head when she confronts Muneakira and Kojiro Sasaki in an attempt to prevent the destruction of a protective stone. She is ultimately overpowered and taken over by vengeful spirits. Under this possession, she is forced to fight against those she cares for, a tragic situation that brings tears to her eyes. In this state, she expresses a wish for a true warrior's duel and asks Jubei to end her life rather than remain a tool for evil. In the end, Jubei becomes a Samurai Bride and is able to save Inshun, breaking the possession and allowing her spirit to find peace and ascend.

Her unique abilities are directly tied to her mechanical mask. The mask allows her to produce a special resonant voice that she uses to command animals, turning them into simple shikigami, or spirit servants. In combat, she wields her jumonji spear with immense skill and power, demonstrating that her small stature is not a reflection of her strength.