Character Comparison: Performing Under Pressure

Shiori – One of the least equipped emotionally to handle the constant dangers that come with the territory of being a Keyholder. She’s extremely sensitive and crumbles under stress. When she is overwhelmed, she loses her usual focus on others and is apt to lash out even at friends.

Atsuko – She doesn’t think before she acts, and when someone gets hurt on her watch, she loses control of her emotions and rampages.

Reka – At first glance, he doesn’t get fazed by much and seems strong. He has a high stress threshold, but once he hits it, he snaps. He might let his anger get the better of him when he’s trying to shoulder too much on his own (and then he’ll kick himself later for the damage he’s done), or he’ll break down.

Toki – Her fears and insecurities can sometimes overwhelm her, making her overreactive or indecisive. Her first instinct may be to run away when something rattles her; but at the end of the day, she puts her teammates first and is always there when they need her.

Toshirō – He is generally optimistic and takes things in stride but can be clumsy and make mistakes under pressure. There are times when he can be discouraged by his own mistakes and any ensuing criticisms.

Takeshi – For the most part, he is confident and competent. But when he is afraid of his decisions putting his teammates in danger, or when situations take an unforeseen turn, he may be paralyzed by indecision. For a time after Yuki’s death, Takeshi also struggles with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Kita – Though she’s not great at looking before she leaps and is a bit too impulsive at times, her quick responsiveness is a critical asset in an emergency.

Sora – With a level head and a good sense of others’ emotional states, Sora is usually able to reduce tensions in a highly-charged situation. In a fight, he is sharp and quick to respond when someone needs help. He can be reckless, though, and is prone to not speak up when he himself needs help.

Sharon – She can be a bit short-tempered, but Sharon is good at realistically evaluating situations as well as people’s strengths and limitations. She also has the mental fortitude to make difficult decisions and take responsibility for them.

And the Most Composed Award goes to…

Shaoqiang – Neither reckless nor overly fearful, Shaoqiang knows when to fight and when to fall back. Unlike Sharon, whose decision-making process is more functional/executive, Shaoqiang is better at working with people.