Kisa Souma

Kisa is shy, gentle and initially extremely withdrawn. Bullying leaves her ashamed enough that she cannot explain what is happening even to her worried mother, and eventually she stops speaking altogether.

She responds strongly to kindness because Tooru does not demand that she immediately become brave. Tooru instead acknowledges how difficult it can be to keep trying when other people's cruelty has damaged one's confidence.

As she recovers, Kisa becomes more willing to speak for herself. She remains quiet by nature, but her increasing confidence allows her to express disagreement and defend people she cares about.

As the Tiger of the Zodiac, Kisa transforms into a tiger cub when the curse is triggered. Even in animal form, she is small enough to be carried, though she can bite when frightened or defensive.

Kisa has no specialized combat training established in the story. Her Zodiac transformation is the principal supernatural ability associated with her.

She is also a devoted fan of the fictional anime Mogeta and shares that enthusiasm with several younger characters.

Kisa's introduction explores bullying and the shame it can create in the person being targeted. Hatsuharu Souma finds her after she runs away and brings her to Shigure's house, where Tooru gradually earns her trust.

Her return to school is encouraged by both Tooru and Yuki Souma, who understands from his own experiences how painful it is to hear that one must simply love oneself when nobody has first shown that love from outside.

Kisa's relationship with Hiro later reveals another consequence of Akito's possessiveness. Akito physically attacks Kisa after Hiro admits that he loves her, and Hiro subsequently distances himself because he fears causing her further harm.

Tooru Honda becomes Kisa's beloved "big sister." Kisa trusts Tooru Honda because she responds to her silence with patience rather than judgment.

Hiro Souma is Kisa's closest childhood companion and romantic interest. [Hiro's temporary distance from Kisa Souma is motivated by fear after Akito punishes her for his confession.](#spoiler)

Hatsuharu Souma finds Kisa after she runs away and treats her protectively.

Yuki Souma encourages Kisa to return to school by speaking honestly about his own experience with rejection.

Akito Souma inspires deep fear in Kisa. Akito's violent reaction to Hiro's feelings leaves Kisa seriously injured.