Owner Kobayashi is the proprietor of BB Lounge, the Shibuya nightclub where the story largely unfolds. He first encountered Eiko Tsukimi when he rescued her from a difficult situation and later hired her as a singer at his establishment. Outwardly, Kobayashi possesses a stern, almost intimidating appearance that can suggest a rough past, but he is fundamentally a kind and caring individual who is deeply protective of his staff. His defining trait is an encyclopedic fascination with the Three Kingdoms period of Chinese history, which he studies obsessively and enjoys discussing with anyone who shares his interest. This expertise leads him to immediately bond with the reincarnated strategist Zhuge Kongming when the latter appears at BB Lounge; after rigorously testing Kongming’s historical knowledge, Kobayashi offers him employment and a place to live, cementing a bond of mutual respect between them. Throughout the story, Kobayashi serves as a reliable anchor for Eiko and Kongming, providing the physical and logistical foundation for their musical ambitions. He often draws parallels between ancient battles and modern music-industry rivalries, using his historical insight to offer strategic advice that complements Kongming’s own tactics. His motivations are rooted in loyalty to his friends and a genuine desire to see Eiko succeed, as well as a personal enjoyment of being part of a grand strategic endeavor. While Kobayashi does not undergo a dramatic arc of personal change, his role steadily expands in the live-action film continuation, where he remains a steadfast ally who facilitates Kongming’s plans and helps protect those under his care from industry exploitation. His notable abilities include a keen analytical mind for strategic patterns, a deep well of historical knowledge, and the practical street smarts needed to run a successful nightclub in a competitive environment.