TV-Series
Description
Mamoru is a monkey shikigami who hatches from an egg given to Nanami Momozono by the wind god Otohiko as a test of her readiness to attend the Divine Assembly in Izumo. Nanami was meant to hatch the egg over seven days, but an argument between her and Tomoe led to Mizuki accidentally stepping on and cracking it, causing Mamoru to emerge prematurely. Despite his early birth, he already had the form of a small monkey. Nanami kept him with her so he could continue to grow by absorbing her spiritual energy, or chi. In time, Mamoru also gains the ability to take the form of a human child, though he must remain in his monkey shape for Nanami to fully channel her divine power.

Mamoru’s name is derived from the Japanese word for "to protect," which Nanami chose when she named him. This reflects his primary function: he was created to be a protective and supportive being. His innate power is purification, allowing him and Nanami together to cleanse evil spirits, yokai, and even former gods. He is not an independent combat-type familiar but rather a living extension of Nanami’s divine abilities, closely linked to her spiritual strength and acting as a source of support for her duties as a land god.

Personality-wise, Mamoru is affectionate and possesses a cheeky side. He can be highly suspicious when dealing with demons or threats, showing a cautious and wary nature. Despite his small and youthful appearance, he takes his role seriously and displays a protective loyalty toward Nanami and those she cares about. He tends to be straightforward in his emotions and can be both earnest and playful.

Mamoru’s motivations are centered on protecting Nanami and helping her fulfill her responsibilities as a god. Because his life force depends on her chi, their bond is deeply symbiotic. He grows stronger as Nanami’s own spiritual power increases. Their connection also means that if Nanami’s chi becomes depleted, Mamoru can fall ill, as happened when Nanami was attacked by a yokai shortly after his hatching and was exposed to miasma.

In the story, Mamoru serves as Nanami’s shikigami and a key ally. He accompanies her to the Divine Assembly and helps her purify malevolent forces. His presence allows Nanami to use her divine powers more effectively, acting as a focus for her protective abilities.

Mamoru’s key relationships are primarily with Nanami, his creator and master, toward whom he is devoted and affectionate. He also interacts with other major characters such as Tomoe, Mizuki, and Otohiko. He is generally well-treated by the household and becomes a beloved member of the Mikage shrine community.

Throughout the series, Mamoru undergoes development from a fragile, prematurely hatched creature into a more stable and capable shikigami. As Nanami matures as a god, Mamoru’s own abilities become more refined, and their bond deepens. His growth mirrors Nanami’s increasing competence and confidence.

His notable abilities include shape-shifting between a small monkey form and a human child form, purification of evil influences, and the capacity to channel Nanami’s divine power. His most defining ability is the power to protect, which manifests when he and Nanami act together to shield others from harm. He is not a frontline fighter but a support unit whose strength lies in cleansing and guarding.
Cast