OVA
Description
Oboro is a recurring character in Utawarerumono who begins his story as an impulsive and somewhat egotistical bandit chief operating from a fortified camp near the village where the protagonist Hakuoro comes to live. He is the older brother of Yuzuha, a frail and blind young woman whom he loves deeply and protects fiercely. Because of her poor health, Oboro regularly brings her to be cared for by the village healer, and much of his early behavior is shaped by his determination to keep her safe and to secure medicine and food for their small community, often by taking what the local nobility had seized from the villagers.

When Hakuoro emerges as the leader of the rebellion against the oppressive ruler of the region, Oboro joins his cause and swears an oath of eternal loyalty to him, addressing Hakuoro as his brother. His motivations at this stage combine personal gratitude, a desire for revenge against the forces that had treated his people and his sister poorly, and a genuine respect for Hakuoro's leadership. After the rebellion succeeds and the new nation of Tuskur is established, Oboro serves as a general under Hakuoro and commands a unit of roving swordsmen drawn from his former bandit following. He is known for his hot-headed and battle-ready temperament, often being the first to advocate for a direct assault when the realm faces a threat, which regularly brings him into comedic conflict with the more level-headed general Kurou over military strategy.

Oboro's key relationships anchor his development throughout the story. His bond with Yuzuha remains the most important part of his identity, as his protectiveness of her tempers his aggressive nature with tenderness. His loyalty to Hakuoro transforms from simple allegiance into a brotherly devotion, and Hakuoro clearly trusts him in return. He is almost always accompanied by the twin archers Dorii and Guraa, who serve as his loyal attendants and follow him faithfully through all of his trials. His rivalry with Kurou is a recurring source of friction, though it never undermines their shared duty. Oboro also has a notable personal quirk: he despises vegetables and reacts dramatically to eating them, a small trait that adds a lighter note to his otherwise serious warrior demeanor.

In combat, Oboro fights with two katanas and relies on his excellent agility, making him a deadly and fast-moving fighter. However, he is comparatively inexperienced next to the more seasoned warriors around him, and his strength lies more in his speed, enthusiasm, and courage than in refined mastery. His role in the story grows significantly when Hakuoro, before sealing himself away, designates Oboro as the next emperor of Tuskur. The responsibility weighs heavily on him, and when Yuzuha passes away shortly afterward, he chooses to leave the throne behind temporarily and embark on a journey of self-discovery across the lands, hoping to learn what it truly means to be a good ruler. Dorii and Guraa remain at his side during this wandering period.

By the time of the later entries in the series, Oboro has visibly matured. He appears older, with longer hair and a mustache, and wears a blue cloth that marks his position as emperor. Though he still possesses his characteristic fiery spirit and eagerness for battle, he has grown into a more responsible figure who carries the weight of leadership and seeks to honor the trust placed in him by Hakuoro and by his fallen sister. His journey transforms him from a self-centered and impulsive young bandit into a loyal general, a grieving brother, and ultimately a ruler striving to live up to his duties.
Cast