Movie
Description
Serving as the primary crew member aboard the Galaxy Express 999, the Conductor enforces regulations and ensures passenger safety throughout interstellar journeys. His physical form consists entirely of high-pressure gas, rendering him invisible without specialized containment. To prevent gaseous dissipation and shield his light-sensitive eyes, he constantly wears a complete uniform: cap, double-buttoned jacket, cloak, pants, and seasonal gloves. Within this attire, only his glowing yellow eyes are visible, shadowed beneath the cap's brim.

His personality blends strict protocol adherence with underlying compassion. He frequently cites the Galaxy Railways rulebook, prioritizing departure schedules and prohibiting stowaways. Yet, he makes exceptions for passenger welfare, such as permitting an orphaned infant aboard or aiding protagonists during crises. Professional integrity is paramount; neglecting duties would warrant self-imposed termination via space exposure.

His background remains largely undisclosed. Species origin, name, and pre-railway history are unknown. A significant past relationship involved Marvelous, a companion from his homeworld. She later disguised herself as "Female," a middle-aged passenger, to reconnect before her departure. This loss profoundly shaped his formal address toward female travelers as "Female," honoring her memory. It underscores his solitary existence, with colleagues and frequent passengers like Maetel unaware of his origins or true appearance.

Relationships evolve significantly. Initial interactions with Tetsuro Hoshino are contentious due to rule enforcement clashing with Tetsuro's empathy, exemplified by their opposing actions regarding the android Claire's remains. Gradually, mutual respect develops: the Conductor accommodates Tetsuro renaming planets, protects him from personality overwriting, and eventually violates protocols to assist him, shifting his address from formal "passenger" to using Tetsuro's name. With Maetel, mutual trust exists despite her concealed agenda. He acknowledges her role in subverting the Machine Empire but refrains from intervention per regulations, occasionally showing vulnerability in her presence.

His dedication transcends mere duty. He actively resists train hijackings, intervenes in life-threatening situations even off-schedule, and expresses attachment to the 999 itself. These actions reflect a deep commitment rooted in safeguarding lives and honoring connections forged during transit.