Golden Kamuy, Episode 3: Kamuy Mosir
Role in the Episode
Tsukishima Hajime appears as Tsurumi’s fiercely loyal subordinate, demonstrating his unwavering obedience and ruthlessness. His key moment is executing Wada Koji on Tsurumi’s command, further cementing Tsurumi’s iron grip over his men.
Key Contributions in the Episode:
- Silent Enforcer of Tsurumi’s Will
- Tsukishima does not argue or question orders, proving he is an extension of Tsurumi’s power.
- While Wada Koji outranks Tsurumi, Tsukishima shows no hesitation in betraying and executing his commanding officer.
- His actions reveal the cult-like loyalty Tsurumi has instilled in his men.
- Executing Wada Koji Without Hesitation
- When Wada Koji orders Tsurumi’s execution, Tsukishima immediately shoots Wada in the back of the head.
- This reinforces Tsurumi’s absolute dominance, as even a superior officer cannot escape his control.
- Tsukishima’s quick compliance suggests that he sees Tsurumi as his true leader, not the official military hierarchy.
- Symbolizing the 7th Division’s Descent Into Tsurumi’s Cult of Personality
- His unquestioning obedience emphasizes that Tsurumi’s men are more loyal to him than to the actual military command structure.
- This moment foreshadows the internal power struggle within the 7th Division and highlights how Tsurumi is shaping it into his own private army.
Impact Rating: 6.5/10
Strengths:
- Crucial role in Wada Koji’s execution, showing how Tsurumi’s authority overrides military ranks.
- Portrays the 7th Division’s corruption and loyalty shift, reinforcing Tsurumi’s grip on his men.
- His presence solidifies Tsurumi’s aura of dominance, showing that his orders are law among his followers.
Weaknesses:
- Limited screen time—aside from executing Wada, he doesn’t interact much with other characters.
- Lacks personal development or independent action, making him more of a tool for Tsurumi’s influence rather than a fully developed character in this episode.
Final Verdict:
Tsukishima Hajime serves as a perfect example of Tsurumi’s cult-like influence over his men. His instant and ruthless execution of Wada Koji reinforces the deterioration of traditional military order within the 7th Division, further elevating Tsurumi as an unstoppable force. While his role is brief, it is highly impactful in showcasing Tsurumi’s terrifying control over his subordinates.
Golden Kamuy, Episode 5: Race
Tsukishima Hajime’s Role in the Episode:
Tsukishima Hajime plays a minor but notable role in this episode, mainly appearing alongside Tsurumi Tokushiro during the aftermath of Sugimoto’s escape and the fire at the 7th Division HQ. While he does not engage in direct action or decision-making, his presence signifies his continued loyalty and role as Tsurumi’s right-hand man.
Key Contributions:
- Loyal Presence Near Tsurumi:
- Tsukishima is shown standing beside Tsurumi while the HQ burns, demonstrating his continued role as Tsurumi’s enforcer and confidant.
- He does not intervene directly in the chaos but is one of the few soldiers trusted to stand so close to Tsurumi during a moment of crisis.
- Silent Support in Tsurumi’s Plans:
- As Tsurumi strategizes, Tsukishima does not question him, reinforcing his stoic and disciplined nature.
- His lack of overt reaction suggests he is aware of Tsurumi’s manipulations and follows orders without hesitation.
- Watching the Fire Consume the 7th Division’s HQ:
- While he does not take an active role in trying to stop the fire or retrieve the tattooed skins, his presence suggests he is there to oversee and report on the situation.
- He witnesses Tsurumi’s eccentric behavior, including his bizarre revelation of wearing a shirt made of tattooed skin, but does not react emotionally, showing his stoic loyalty.
Impact Rating: 2.5/10
- Minimal Direct Involvement: Tsukishima does not directly act in this episode, nor does he influence the plot significantly.
- Presence Reinforces Tsurumi’s Authority: His presence adds weight to Tsurumi’s leadership, highlighting how loyal and disciplined soldiers stand by him, even during madness.
- Foreshadowing of His Importance: Though not heavily involved, his silent observance of the fire and the aftermath suggests he remains an important figure for future developments.
Overall, Tsukishima is mostly passive in this episode, serving as a symbol of Tsurumi’s control rather than an active participant. While his presence is felt, his impact on the actual events remains limited.