The Sōshin (
They reside in a nest deep within the valleys of Hōjō and are forbidden from setting foot in Hōrai.
Appearance[]
Sōshin vary widely in appearance, taking on abnormal physical characteristics ranging from human, animal (aquatic, amphibians), insect, sage to demonic. In most cases, the Sōshin take on a chimera appearance of at least two of these characteristics. The body structure of the Sōshin is commonly humanoid and can possess multiple heads or limbs. A common trait amongst the Sōshin share is some level of deformity, and those with human faces are seen with permanent smiles. Sōshin vary in size, either being about the same size as humans or tall as giants.
As noted by Senta, Sōshin wear random religious clothing, making them look like poorly thought out deities. They can also be seen carrying shakujō or weapons like axes and kanabō.
Behavior[]
The Sōshin lack intelligence and act as mindless creatures that can be attracted to things such as forest fires. They can be easily controlled by the Sennin and will follow their orders exactly, which suggests that they possess at least some level of understanding. The Sōshin appear to not react to pain and are unable to sense danger, focusing only on their purpose of eliminating any trespassers within their presence. They also commonly attack in groups. Despite their low intellect, the Sōshin are capable of speech on rare occasions. This usually happens whenever they witness someone killing one of their own, telling them that killing is an act of sin. This is primarily due to their past orders by Lord Tensen to teach the Hōko the meaning of mortality.
Biology[]
Sōshin possess muscle and bone structures but lack organs or signs of genitalia. According to Fuchi's examination, the internal anatomy of the Sōshin is structured differently across individuals, even ones that are similar in outward appearance. Despite lacking organs, they are capable of speech, indicating that they at least have vocal organs. It is unknown if they require any form of sustenance to remain active, although it has been speculated that they do take rests as Genji took note of how he did not spot any of them during the night.
Abilities and Powers[]
The Sōshin are capable of defending themselves, and despite being weak against the humans of the vanguard party, they have managed to ward off the past humans that have landed on Kotaku.
Influence[]
The Sōshin are named after Zao Jun (灶君?), also known as the Kitchen God, a domestic god that protects the hearth and the family. According to Chinese folklore, once a year, Zao Jun returns from heaven to report the activities of every household over the past year to Yu Huang, the Jade Emperor, who decides whether to reward or punish a family based on Zao Jun's yearly report.
Trivia[]
- The Sōshin ranked 24th in the manga's 1st Character Popularity Poll.
- Though the Sōshin have their own unique appearance, there have been instances in the manga where a few are redrawn again.
- Ironically, even though the Sōshin are instructed by Lord Tensen to teach the Hōko that killing is a sin, their purpose on Kotaku is to eliminate any trespassers that land on the island.