Takeru Shiba is quite...unique. Not necessarily the odd one out, but definitely different from others. An outsider knowing of our lives would say he's a perfect samurai, or simply say "As expected of the Shiba lord!" I, Mako Shiraishi, know better.
He carries the burden of leading us into battle with the Gedoushuu and his caring heart does not help. Takeru is quite firm, but deep inside his heart his tender, and he cannot bear to see his retainers hurt. We aren't just his retainers though. We are his friends. Took him a while to realize that. I was quite surprised to find out about Genta and the fact that he also gave him Ika Origami! Who knew about the true him?
But even now, I notice that the battle is not the only burden he carries. Ryuunosuke might be book smart, but he can't catch the little details. Something heavier weighs down on our lord's shoulders. He is very good at hiding secrets and I can't seem to express himself.
And now, the Sukima Sensor goes off. The Ayakashi is targeting Takeru. He nearly dies. Everything goes by in a flash. Someone is piloting the Shishi Origami. Takeru is still laying down. And when I see a female standing tall in Shinken Red's suit with the Kuroko-tachi...it clicks.
No wonder Takeru was always so distant, so afraid when we tried to protect him. He must have been so eager to tell us, but held off for the sake of everyone. He must have wanted to yell out "No! Protect yourselves! I'm worth nothing!" In that situation, I would have done the same.
We aren't upset because he is not the real 18th head or that he isn't of Shiba blood. Because, who gives a damn about that? We, Ryuunosuke, Chiaki,Kotoha,and I, especially Genta, are only loyal to Takeru. Not some princess. We don't care how strong she is or if she knows the sealing character. We will only follow Takeru, a kagemusha or not!
We will defeat Dokoku and all of the Gedoushuu with Takeru, by his side and under his lead. His burden is lifted. He will always be our lord.