Written In The Stars :: A SOUMI Shrine

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Kaoru and Misao: More mature?

Whiterabbit

I’ve noticed in many Rurouni Kenshin fanfics, both AU and canon timeline, that Misao is sometimes depicted as a less mature version of Kaoru. But is this really true in the series? Is Misao really just the genki, childish edition of the main heroine?

They may be similar, but I think not. Misao is very much her own person with her own personality. I would even go as far as to say that Misao is, in fact, more mature than Kaoru! Don’t believe it? Take a look at the similar situations they’ve been in, and how they’ve reacted.

Kaoru—Situation #1: When Misao and Kaoru fight Kamatari, Kaoru keeps her cool and relates to the Great Scythe by saying that they are both fighters.

Misao—Situation #1: When Misao and Kaoru fight Kamatari, Misao seems easily riled and childish. But Misao also relates herself to Kamatari by saying his loyalty to Shishio is almost like hers to Aoshi.

The difference? Misao overcomes her previous assumptions to relate to Kamatari. She says she doesn’t understand Kamatari, so she isn’t trying to make a connection, but she recognizes that it’s there. Not to mention, Misao is saving Kamatari’s life at that moment. And don’t forget—Kaoru gets the credit for that battle, but it was Misao who figured out how to beat Kamatari! So I’d say in this situation they both show maturity.

Kaoru—Situation #2: When her father dies, Kaoru takes over his dojo.

Misao—Situation #2: When Aoshi betrays them, Misao becomes the Okashira of the Oniwabanshu.

In these situations, both girls are taking responsibility after a huge emotional upheaval. The difference between the two is that Kaoru is simply taking over what is hers by honor—she is already the assistant master, and when her father dies it is only natural for her to take over.

Misao, on the other hand, faces opposition for her leadership. Neither Okina nor Aoshi meant her to become Okashira, but she does so anyway. What makes this an especially mature action is that Misao is taking responsibility for both herself, the oniwabanshuu and Aoshi. She takes this position while knowing that she may have to face Aoshi, and that is true maturity. Again, in both cases the girls are being mature, but I’d say that Misao’s actions speak louder than Kaoru’s.

Kaoru—Situation #3: Kaoru presumably loves Kenshin. Kenshin leaves Kaoru behind to go to Kyoto.

Reaction: Kaoru “is paralyzed” and generally mopes around for a good day or so before her friends kick her into high gear.

Misao—Situation #3: Misao presumably (operative word, there!) loves Aoshi. Aoshi and the rest of the Oniwaban leave Misao to work for Kanryuu.

Reaction: At the tender age of eight or so, Misao had been, to put it bluntly, ditched by all of her friends. What does she do? She goes after them!

In my opinion, little Misao is being much more mature in facing her grief and basically sticking her tongue out at it. Kaoru’s weepiness (nothing against her, I love her just as much as Misao) prevents her from going after what she wants and toughing it out. Misao, who is not only younger but also much more abandoned that Kaoru is, toughs it out and goes on her way to get what she wants.

So, while Misao’s cheerful demeanor and quickness to anger gives her the impression of being childish, she really is not. In the face of danger and loyalty, Misao shows true courage and maturity. I think many people underestimate The Weasel Girl and don’t see beyond her youth.