TV-Series
Description
Itaru Chigasaki is an early-20s office worker at a prestigious trading company. He joined the Mankai Company theater troupe primarily to cut living expenses and fund his gaming obsession, securing private accommodation in Room 103 which he treats as his dedicated gaming sanctuary.
His childhood isolation, stemming from poor athleticism, drove him deeply into video games. He idolized Lancelot from the "Knights of the Round" (KotR) series, even adopting an imaginary fairy companion named Gwen. In high school, a shared passion for KotR led to friendship with Tonooka, but this ended when Tonooka exposed Itaru's gaming habits to classmates, causing Itaru to retreat further. He gained popularity streaming games anonymously under the alias "Taruchi" within the KotR fan community. His sister influenced his career path, advising him to leverage his appearance, resulting in his elite corporate position.
Itaru maintains two distinct personas. Professionally, he presents a refined, dependable "prince" image, using polite language and a calm demeanor that earns colleagues' trust. Privately, he transforms into a passionate, competitive gamer who uses crude language, prioritizes gaming marathons, avoids physical exertion, and expresses disdain for labor while wishing for "unearned income." He frequently references gaming terminology in daily speech. His reliance on technology is evident, stating "I can't keep calm if I don't have my phone nearby" and desiring an "automatic bath machine."
Within the Spring Troupe, key relationships develop:
- He admires Sakuya Sakuma for his exceptional gacha game luck, often relying on him to obtain rare items.
- He views Tsuzuru Minagi as indispensable for handling responsibilities, stating Tsuzuru’s presence allows him to "always be at ease."
- He finds Citron entertaining despite linguistic misunderstandings, noting Citron "hits my humour buttons."
- He shares a formal but understanding dynamic with colleague Chikage Utsuki, maintaining professional boundaries.
- He initially resents Masumi Usui’s blunt critiques but respects his honesty.
Outside the troupe, he games online with Banri Settsa (rival "NEO"), competing in rankings.
Itaru's character development centers on the "Knights of the Round IV" stage production. Initially cold towards Tonooka (now a KotR promoter), he accepts the lead role as Lancelot and fiercely advocates for the Spring Troupe to perform. When criticized by the game’s creator, he blames himself. Later, despite his usual secrecy about his private life, he agrees to reveal his "Taruchi" streaming identity to promote the play. This arc culminates in reconciliation with Tonooka and acceptance of his past.
Thematically, Mankai Company represents "the place where I can be myself," allowing him to integrate his dual identities without judgment. His journey reflects belonging and self-acceptance, summarized in his realization: "Before I knew it, this had become a place I belonged."
His childhood isolation, stemming from poor athleticism, drove him deeply into video games. He idolized Lancelot from the "Knights of the Round" (KotR) series, even adopting an imaginary fairy companion named Gwen. In high school, a shared passion for KotR led to friendship with Tonooka, but this ended when Tonooka exposed Itaru's gaming habits to classmates, causing Itaru to retreat further. He gained popularity streaming games anonymously under the alias "Taruchi" within the KotR fan community. His sister influenced his career path, advising him to leverage his appearance, resulting in his elite corporate position.
Itaru maintains two distinct personas. Professionally, he presents a refined, dependable "prince" image, using polite language and a calm demeanor that earns colleagues' trust. Privately, he transforms into a passionate, competitive gamer who uses crude language, prioritizes gaming marathons, avoids physical exertion, and expresses disdain for labor while wishing for "unearned income." He frequently references gaming terminology in daily speech. His reliance on technology is evident, stating "I can't keep calm if I don't have my phone nearby" and desiring an "automatic bath machine."
Within the Spring Troupe, key relationships develop:
- He admires Sakuya Sakuma for his exceptional gacha game luck, often relying on him to obtain rare items.
- He views Tsuzuru Minagi as indispensable for handling responsibilities, stating Tsuzuru’s presence allows him to "always be at ease."
- He finds Citron entertaining despite linguistic misunderstandings, noting Citron "hits my humour buttons."
- He shares a formal but understanding dynamic with colleague Chikage Utsuki, maintaining professional boundaries.
- He initially resents Masumi Usui’s blunt critiques but respects his honesty.
Outside the troupe, he games online with Banri Settsa (rival "NEO"), competing in rankings.
Itaru's character development centers on the "Knights of the Round IV" stage production. Initially cold towards Tonooka (now a KotR promoter), he accepts the lead role as Lancelot and fiercely advocates for the Spring Troupe to perform. When criticized by the game’s creator, he blames himself. Later, despite his usual secrecy about his private life, he agrees to reveal his "Taruchi" streaming identity to promote the play. This arc culminates in reconciliation with Tonooka and acceptance of his past.
Thematically, Mankai Company represents "the place where I can be myself," allowing him to integrate his dual identities without judgment. His journey reflects belonging and self-acceptance, summarized in his realization: "Before I knew it, this had become a place I belonged."