Kitsune

Kitsune is arrogant, cruel, insecure, and eager to establish superiority over people unable to fight back. He takes pride in being a warrior and reacts angrily when Thorfinn's indifference toward death seems to devalue the danger he represents.

He nevertheless recognizes Snake's authority. His swagger diminishes rapidly when his commander appears, showing that much of Kitsune's bravado depends on dealing with people over whom he possesses an obvious advantage.

He is also capable of functioning as a disciplined guard when performing routine duties, including patrols and searches.

Kitsune is an experienced swordsman who claims to have killed numerous people. His professional life as a mercenary gives him considerably more combat experience than ordinary farm workers.

He can strike accurately enough to inflict controlled cuts rather than immediately killing a target. During his confrontation with Thorfinn, he repeatedly wounds him while attempting to force an emotional reaction.

His abilities remain far below the exceptional warriors of the series. Snake can stop his assault immediately, and Kitsune shows no desire to challenge his superior.

Kitsune first becomes prominent when the Guests bring Thorfinn and Einar to their quarters as potential targets for Olmar's attempt to prove himself by killing someone.

When Einar disrupts the situation, Kitsune turns his attention toward Thorfinn. Disturbed by Thorfinn's apparent willingness to die, he repeatedly cuts him in an attempt to prove that everyone fears death. Snake arrives before the confrontation goes further.

Later, Kitsune participates in the farm's security operations. He helps investigate thefts committed by Sture and Thora and later joins the search for Gardar.

Snake is Kitsune's commander and a warrior whose authority he respects.

Ketil employs Kitsune as part of the force protecting his farm.

Thorfinn becomes the target of Kitsune's attempt to demonstrate the terror of death.

Einar is present during Kitsune's confrontation with Thorfinn.

Olmar initially seeks the Guests' assistance in becoming a killer.

Sture and Thora are children the Guests catch stealing food.

Gardar becomes the dangerous fugitive Kitsune and the other Guests are ordered to locate.