Yoshino Hikari

Overview

Yoshino Hikari is the warrior-king after whom the Kingdom of Hikari is named. He ruled the eastern nation and led its people to glory, establishing the swordsmanship traditions associated with the kingdom. He is the father of Satomi and Arata.

His death from illness creates the succession crisis that becomes the Hikari Civil War. With no longer a living ruler to settle the succession, Satomi’s rightful claim is challenged by Arata, and the war ultimately draws in Shun and the Tower.

Developments

He died in his bed of a long illness, leaving two children to contest the crown. After decades of victorious campaigns he chose peace and granted sovereignty to Chiseido — which his son considered weakness and his daughter considered his finest act.

His banner, a black bear with crimson eyes on deep crimson, is still recognised on sight by the peasantry, who felt no fear when it passed.