Colonel Shikishima's Squad

Lore & Background

In the shadowed corridors of Neo-Tokyo's government, Shikishima's unit operates as the blunt instrument of state control. Unlike the scientific division led by Dr. Onishi, which seeks to understand the psychic phenomena, this squad is trained to suppress and neutralize them. Their mandate stems from the catastrophic potential of unchecked esper abilities, a lesson learned during the original Akira incident decades prior. They are equipped with heavy armor designed for urban warfare, reflecting the expectation that their targets will resist capture violently.

As Tetsuo Shima's powers begin to manifest uncontrollably, the squad becomes his primary pursuers. Their initial success in capturing him gives way to a desperate campaign of containment as he escapes and grows stronger. The unit embodies the military's fear of the unknown, prioritizing force over diplomacy. Ultimately, their rigid protocols prove insufficient against the raw evolution of Tetsuo's energy, leading to the squad's near-total destruction during the final confrontation in the underground ruins.

Reader's Guide

Colonel Shikishima's Squad functions as a specialized task force within the Neo-Tokyo military structure, distinct from standard police units like the Spikes. Their primary goal is to secure and contain psychic anomalies that threaten national security, specifically focusing on Tetsuo Shima following his awakening. They coordinate closely with government officials but often clash with scientists who wish to study rather than suppress these powers.

The unit consists of highly trained soldiers equipped for urban combat, utilizing armored vehicles capable of navigating the dense infrastructure of Neo-Tokyo. Colonel Shikishima leads them personally, maintaining discipline amidst chaos. In the broader conflict, they represent the established order attempting to control a force that is rapidly outgrowing human comprehension. Their eventual failure highlights the theme that military might cannot contain spiritual or evolutionary power.

Did You Know?

• The squad utilizes distinctive armored personnel carriers specifically designed for urban containment operations.
• Their tactical protocols were insufficient against the rapid escalation of Tetsuo's psychic abilities.
• They operate independently from the regular police force, reporting directly to high-level government officials.