Norio Kunato, heir to the prominent Kunato Developments aboard the generation ship Sidonia, was born into prestige. Ranking first in pilot training, he initially dismissed other trainees as nuisances. His ambition fixated on becoming Sidonia's top Garde pilot and inheriting the legendary Tsugumori unit. This goal was shattered by Nagate Tanikaze's emergence; Nagate claimed the Tsugumori and achieved heroic status defeating Gauna threats, glory Norio perceived as stolen. Norio's resentment ignited a bitter rivalry. During a critical mission, he manipulated events to frame Nagate, prioritizing personal vindication over pilot safety. This act indirectly caused Shizuka Hoshijiro's death, though Norio denied responsibility and expressed no remorse. Overwhelming guilt later manifested as severe anxiety, forcing his resignation from piloting to focus on Kunato Developments. The Kunato family harbored ties to the scientist Ochiai. While investigating these connections, Ochiai's consciousness overtook Norio's body. Under Ochiai's control, Norio's identity provided access to Kunato resources, diverted into clandestine research, including chimera experiments. Ochiai eventually abandoned Norio's body after transferring consciousness to the hybrid entity Kanata. Medical intervention restored Norio, who retained no memories of the possession. Following recovery, Norio returned to active pilot duty. Nagate, acknowledging their unresolved conflict but prioritizing Sidonia's defense, invited collaboration. Norio declined the overture but was visibly moved. He later piloted the Tsugumori Custom 2 after Nagate upgraded to the Yukimori unit. In the final conflict against Gauna clusters and Ochiai, Norio fought alongside Nagate and other pilots. After Sidonia's victory and colonization of the Lem star system, he chose to remain aboard as a guardian pilot. In a symbolic act of reconciliation, he participated in a quad joint handshake with Nagate, Hamagata, and Toutarou, assuring Nagate that Sidonia would be safeguarded in his care. Tall with distinctive white hair and grey eyes, Norio's skills as a Garde pilot remained formidable despite his ethical lapses, a trait recognized even by his rivals.