Lucille (ルシル Rushiru) is one of the main characters of the one-shot Japanese manga series, Roku no Meiyaku, which is written and illustrated by Takeru Hokazono.
Appearance[]
Lucille is slightly shorter in stature, yet it possesses an exceptionally slender physique with skin resembling a smooth, unblemished surface reminiscent of a featureless, jet-black material. Running from its eyes down to its stomach is a striking central band of white, akin to the appearance of a plush toy. Lucille also sports a substantial choker around its neck, likely serving as an accessory. Its ears are pointed, with both tips being fused. Large, expressive eyes adorn its face, while its mouth lacks discernible lips, and there is no visible nose.
Personality[]
Lucille possesses an enigmatic and otherworldly personality, often presenting itself as a messenger and guide to the realm of hell. It expresses frustration when not treated with the reverence it believes it deserves, emphasizing its existence as a being from a higher dimension than humans. Lucille claims the ability to read minds and demonstrates a deep understanding of human emotions and experiences, as evidenced by its comprehension of Roku's sentiments and his memories. Despite its ethereal nature, Lucille displays a certain playfulness and a willingness to engage in conversations and negotiations, as seen in its proposal to Roku for a century-long partnership to exact vengeance. Lucille is also capable of telepathic communication and is seemingly empathetic, expressing concern for Roku's well-being and offering to stave off his boredom with new experiences.
Relationships[]
Roku[]
Lucille's relationship with Roku is characterized by intrigue and complexity. It begins with Lucille's sudden appearance beneath a bridge, where it introduces itself as a messenger and guide to the realm of hell, claiming that only Roku can perceive its presence. Despite this enigmatic introduction, their interactions reveal a deeper connection as Lucille demonstrates its ability to read Roku's mind and understand his emotions.
As they discuss Roku's friend Machi and their shared memories, Lucille becomes a witness to the bond between Roku and Machi. They stand together before Machi's lifeless body, further solidifying their connection through shared experiences and grief.
Lucille plays a pivotal role in Roku's life when it offers him a unique deal, giving him the opportunity to evade death and seek vengeance. This proposition leads to a deeper exploration of Roku's character, his past actions, and his moral dilemmas, with Lucille acting as both a confidant and a provocateur. Their relationship takes an unexpected turn when Roku confronts his father and the other assassins, with Lucille stepping in to assist and guide Roku through a telepathic connection. This pivotal moment showcases Lucille's loyalty and support for Roku.
In the end, as they visit Machi's grave and share a moment of reflection, Lucille expresses its intention to continue providing Roku with experiences to stave off boredom, highlighting a sense of companionship and shared purpose between them. Despite Lucille's ethereal nature, their relationship evolves into a unique and significant connection in Roku's life.
Plot[]
Background[]
Lucille is an otherworldly entity, self-identifying as a messenger and guide to the realm of hell, with a capacity to communicate exclusively with individuals akin to Roku who can perceive its existence. Despite its ethereal nature, Lucille lacks physical sensations, as demonstrated when Roku places cigarettes into it without eliciting harm, although it is not impervious to frustration, particularly when it perceives disrespectful treatment, underscoring its existence as a being from a dimension beyond humans.
Lucille assumes the role of a silent observer in pivotal moments of Roku's life, notably their encounters with Roku's father and their formative experiences as assassins. In these critical junctures, Lucille emerges as a guiding force, supporting and aiding Roku in navigating through challenging circumstances, including a confrontation with his father and fellow assassins.
Moreover, Lucille presents Roku with an intriguing proposition—a deal offering him a century of life extension and access to Lucille's unique abilities for the pursuit of vengeance. This proposition sparks philosophical dialogues between Lucille and Roku, delving into questions of morality and responsibility, particularly in relation to their involvement in taking lives.
Abilities and Skills[]
- Mind-Reading: Lucille possesses the ability to read minds. It demonstrates this skill by reading Roku's thoughts and perceptions, including how he envisions Lucille resembling a cat drawn by a toddler.
- Telepathic Connection: Lucille can establish a telepathic connection with individuals, as demonstrated when it communicates with Roku during a critical moment of confrontation.
- Unconventional Consumption: Lucille can consume objects in an unconventional manner, as seen when it eats a piece of bread in a way analogous to drinking.