Kiku

Princess Kiku

Gender	Female
Occupation	Princess
Affiliation	House of Gohda
Weapon
Status	Deceased
First Appearance	Tenchu: Stealth Assassins

Princess Kiku, known in Japanese as 菊姫 (Kiku-hime), held a cherished position as the sole daughter of Matsunoshin Gohda, the esteemed Daimyo who ruled over the House of Gohda. Her mother, Lady Kei, played a significant role in her upbringing and family life. Additionally, Kiku shared a profound bond with Ayame, who served as both an older sister figure and her closest confidante. Ayame, a dedicated member of the Azuma Ninja clan, stood as not only a trusted protector but also as Kiku's best friend, their relationship adding depth and emotional resonance to the rich tapestry of the "Tenchu" narrative.

Biography[]

Early life[]

The intricate and dramatic narrative of the "Tenchu" series unfolds a tragic chapter in the life of Princess Kiku. Gohda Motohide, in a perilous act driven by his ambition to seize the title of Daimyo, orchestrated the kidnapping of Princess Kiku during a turbulent civil rebellion. This rebellion was directed against his nephew, setting the stage for a gripping and emotionally charged conflict. Amidst the chaos and danger that enveloped her, Kiku's mother, Lady Kei, displayed unwavering courage and maternal instinct, sacrificing her own life in a valiant attempt to protect her beloved daughter. Her selfless act adds a layer to the unfolding tragedy. In this dire situation, Ayame emerges as a beacon of hope. Infiltrating Yoshisada Toda's war camp, Ayame undertakes a daring mission to rescue Princess Kiku. Her unwavering dedication and ninja skills prove instrumental in liberating Kiku from her captors and reuniting her with her rightful guardians. This tumultuous series of events underscores themes of sacrifice, resilience, and the enduring bonds of friendship and loyalty that resonate throughout the "Tenchu" narrative, shaping the destiny of its characters.

Mei-Oh's attack on Gohda Castle[]

The poignant tale of Princess Kiku takes a heart-wrenching turn when she falls gravely ill, with her vision deteriorating as a result. In a desperate bid to save her, Lord Gohda dispatches Rikimaru on a perilous mission to Mount Shiba to retrieve a mystical herb known for its purported ability to cure any ailment. Miraculously, the herb successfully restores Kiku's sight, offering a glimmer of hope. However, tragedy strikes when the malevolent Lord Mei-Oh, the formidable ruler of the underworld, ruthlessly kidnaps Kiku. Faced with the dire prospect of losing his beloved daughter, Lord Gohda turns to both Rikimaru and Ayame, entrusting them with the perilous task of rescuing Kiku from the clutches of evil.

The journey to rescue Kiku plunges Rikimaru and Ayame into a nightmarish realm, where they must confront hordes of skeletal samurais and fire-breathing zombies. Rikimaru's relentless pursuit leads him to a confrontation with the enigmatic and sinister Onikage, culminating in a fierce battle. He continues to search for Kiku in the treacherous underground tunnels. The ultimate confrontation unfolds in the depths of a cavern, where the malevolent Lord Mei-Oh has opened a portal to his domain. As Rikimaru, Kiku, and Ayame navigate their escape, disaster strikes as a cave-in threatens to seal their fate. With the ceiling closing in and time running out, Rikimaru, in a selfless act of heroism, sets aside his sword, Izayoi, to lift the boulder blocking their path. He implores Ayame to take Princess Kiku and Izayoi to safety, ensuring their escape just before the tunnel is completely buried, leaving Rikimaru behind. In a touching and somber moment, Ayame places Izayoi into the ground as a grave marker for Rikimaru, honoring his sacrifice. Together with Lord Gohda and Princess Kiku, they gaze upon the rising sun, signifying the triumph of love, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit in the face of insurmountable odds.

Death and legacy[]

Princess Kiku's harrowing ordeal unfolds as a crucial plot point within the "Tenchu" series, underscoring the complex and emotionally charged narrative of the game. Her tragic journey begins with her abduction by Rinshi, a sinister act orchestrated as part of Onikage's nefarious scheme. Held captive in the mansion of Ginzou Gonbe, Kiku's plight takes a perilous turn. It is Ayame who emerges as her valiant rescuer, liberating Kiku from her captor's clutches and returning her safely to her father's castle. However, the narrative takes an ominous turn as Kiku, upon her return, is unexpectedly rendered unconscious, her identity clandestinely assumed by Rinshi, who takes her place in disguise. Left alone with the enigmatic and malevolent Onikage, Kiku becomes a hostage in a treacherous standoff. Rikimaru, the stalwart Azuma Ninja, arrives in a bid to rescue her, only to find himself confronted with a dire ultimatum. Kiku, in a poignant moment, implores Rikimaru to make a heartbreaking decision—to end their lives if it means vanquishing Onikage and putting an end to the relentless conflict that has plagued their world. In an emotionally charged culmination, Kiku meets her tragic end, cradled in Ayame's arms. Her character's journey, marked by courage, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit, adds a layer of profound depth to the "Tenchu" narrative, leaving a lasting impact on the players and underscoring the themes of love and sacrifice that resonate throughout the game.

Personality[]

TENC4 PSP Screenshot OnikageKiku — Princess Kiku's bravery

Princess Kiku's character arc within the "Tenchu" series is marked by a profound evolution that mirrors her growth from a spirited and enthusiastic child into a mature and resolute young woman. In her youth, she exuded the typical energy and enthusiasm characteristic of children her age. However, the tragic loss of her mother cast a shadow over her life, forcing her to navigate the complexities of grief. Raised solely by her father, Lord Gohda, Kiku discovered solace and guidance in her relationship with Ayame, whom she regarded not only as an older sister but also as a role model worthy of respect. This formative bond became a source of strength, helping Kiku cope with the profound sadness that had touched her life. As she entered her early teenage years, Kiku underwent a noticeable transformation. She adopted a more formal and reserved demeanor, embodying a sense of maturity and purpose. Recognizing the greater importance of her father's people and their well-being, she approached her role with grace and selflessness, never allowing jealousy to cloud her understanding of her responsibilities. In "Tenchu: Shadow Assassins," Kiku's character continues to demonstrate her growth and wisdom. Faced with the perilous situation of Rikimaru being framed and an imposter posing a threat to her life, she exhibited a remarkable level of discernment and courage. Her willingness to sacrifice herself to ensure the defeat of Onikage underscores her unwavering commitment to her people and the greater good. Kiku's character arc embodies the transition from youthful innocence to mature wisdom, reflecting the challenging realities of the warring states period. Her character exemplifies the qualities of a great, wise, and compassionate ruler, mirroring the legacy of her father, Lord Gohda. Tragically, her untimely death serves as a reminder of the harsh and unforgiving backdrop of the era in which the "Tenchu" series is set.