Souji Okita

Okita is usually depicted as composed and unexpectedly cheerful for a man serving in one of the Bakumatsu's most feared armed organizations. His youthful appearance contrasts sharply with his willingness to draw his sword against dangerous opponents.

He takes clear interest in exceptional swordsmanship. His encounters with Kenshin are not merely clashes between political enemies; Okita recognizes the evolving quality of Hiten Mitsurugi-ryū and appears eager to test himself against Battōsai.

His loyalty to the Shinsengumi and its commanders is firm. Even as illness begins limiting him, he remains closely associated with the organization's operations.

Okita is a prodigious swordsman and master of Tennen Rishin-ryū. As captain of the Shinsengumi's First Unit, his position reflects his exceptional ability rather than simply seniority.

His swordsmanship emphasizes speed, precision and aggressive thrusting attacks. He is associated with the Sandanzuki, a rapid three-part thrust traditionally linked with the historical Okita.

Within Rurouni Kenshin, Okita is portrayed as one of the Bakumatsu fighters capable of confronting Battōsai directly. His deteriorating health, rather than a lack of technical ability, becomes the principal limitation on his effectiveness.

Okita appears in Kenshin's memories of the Bakumatsu as one of the elite Shinsengumi swordsmen opposing the Chōshū revolutionaries. Alongside Hajime Saitou, he represents the formidable swordsmanship Kenshin repeatedly encounters on Kyoto's streets.

He participates in events surrounding the Shinsengumi's struggle against the Ishin Shishi and is associated with the Ikedaya Incident. His presence helps establish that Kenshin's reputation as Battōsai developed against opponents who were themselves extraordinary swordsmen.

Okita's tuberculosis increasingly prevents him from fighting at full capacity as the Bakumatsu progresses, reflecting the fate of the historical Shinsengumi captain on whom the character is based.

Hajime Saitou is Okita's fellow Shinsengumi captain and comrade during the struggle against the Ishin Shishi.

Isami Kondo commands the Shinsengumi and is Okita's superior.

Toshizo Hijikata serves as the Shinsengumi's vice-commander and is another of Okita's senior comrades.

Kenshin Himura is an enemy swordsman whom Okita encounters during the Bakumatsu. Okita recognizes Kenshin's improving mastery of Hiten Mitsurugi-ryū and welcomes opportunities to cross blades with him.