Ryouko Kusakabe stands as the formidable captain of the Anti-Spirit Team (AST) within the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. Renowned for her unwavering dedication to protecting civilians from the devastation caused by rogue Spirits, she leads her squad with a fierce sense of duty and responsibility. 

However, her protective instincts sometimes clash with her team's more aggressive, spirit-hunting members, particularly the single-minded Origami Tobiichi. Though originally an antagonist in the struggle between humans and Spirits, Ryouko's role evolves as she grapples with the complex dynamics between power, ideology, and genuine human safety, culminating in a surprising alliance with Ratatoskr when the stakes demand it.

Personality & Appearance

Credits: Studio AIC Plus+

Ryouko is a striking woman in her late 20s with an authoritative aura. Her long, glossy black hair is usually tied back into a disciplined ponytail, framing her sharp black eyes that can flick between serious command and playful irritation in an instant. She often wears a dark cyan military uniform, complete with her AST officer’s hat, symbolizing her high rank. During missions, she dons the AST’s specialized wiring suit, a sleek and durable combat outfit built for the battlefield.

Despite her fierce demeanor, Ryouko has a childish side, particularly evident when she feels disrespected or provoked. She's quick to anger but deeply values the safety of others, often prioritizing the well-being of her teammates and innocent civilians over personal glory. This empathy sets her apart from some of her peers and adds complexity to her otherwise strict leadership style.

Powers & Abilities

Credits: Studio AIC Plus+

Ryouko is a highly skilled AST Wizard, wielding advanced technology and combat expertise. Her proficiency with Realizer Units makes her one of the most capable members of her squad.

• Wizard Mastery: As captain, Ryouko has superior control over the Realizer, a device that manipulates reality through advanced technology to create protective Territories and enhance combat performance.
• Combat Realizer Unit (CR-Unit): The standard AST combat suit, which grants Ryouko heightened mobility, strength, and the ability to engage Spirits in battle. It forms a protective barrier and amplifies her reflexes.
• <Oldest> Gatling Gun: Ryouko’s signature Anti-Spirit weapon. This heavy-duty gatling gun is optimized for long-range attacks, delivering a hail of high-impact rounds capable of penetrating Spirit defenses. It’s both powerful and intimidating, a true testament to her battlefield prowess.

Trivia

• Ryouko’s name contains the kanji for "bonfire" and "child", perhaps hinting at her fiery spirit and youthful temper.
• She’s known to clash regularly with Origami Tobiichi over the latter’s reckless tendencies, highlighting Ryouko’s more thoughtful and protective approach.
• Despite her aggressive role in combat, Ryouko has a surprisingly playful side, which is often teased out during downtime at the base or in non-combat interactions.
• In the visual novel Date A Live: Rinne Utopia, Ryouko sports a more casual outfit: a red T-shirt layered under a relaxed white shirt, showing a glimpse of her life outside her demanding military duties.