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Description
This is a fun, [not-so-]short essay I decided to write, because I feel like this pairing deserves more meta [and love]. Plus, with the exception of making a sideblog for it, I haven’t really given it as much time and attention as I wish I could.

Anyway, I’ve placed the contents of this post under the cut, so that it doesn’t take up a lot of room and so that anyone who isn’t interested or of the same mind can easily skip over it. With that having been said, please respect that this is merely my opinion (read: my acknowledgement that there’s room for inaccuracies, especially considering that this is an ongoing series) and that I’m consequently not looking to engage in any sort of debates.

Thank you, and enjoy!

Mutual Interest

No discussion of Rin and Shiemi’s relationship would be complete without exploring their romantic interest in one another. It is the most superficial and noticeable aspect of their relationship, although there is so much more to it. As such, I will attempt to tackle this matter before moving on to the others.

From the beginning, we’ve seen signs that Rin’s interest in Shiemi is more than platonic. When they formally introduce themselves and move to shake hands, a blush tints Rin’s face.

Rin’s reaction extends beyond the awkwardness of meeting a new acquaintance, something that is, in and of itself, important for him, given the circumstances in his life. What confirms this- And this is something interesting to note.- is Rin’s body language when he first sees Shiemi. He not only seems to be struck by her (which is conveyed by how his eyes have enlarged upon alighting on her during his study of the garden), but he also appears to want to approach her, as indicated by his slightly lifted hand that is very close to touching the gate.

This establishes the context of Rin’s blush during this initial interaction between him and Shiemi; his embarrassment in getting closer to her, even if it’s through the simple contact of shaking hands and introducing themselves, is rooted in his newfound interest in her.

Different interactions that they share and the growth in their relationship, which I will further explore in other portions of this post and hopefully in future meta, reveal that Rin’s feelings for Shiemi become deeper and that there is substance to them.

On her part, Shiemi initially views Rin as a friend. Just the same, her relationship with Yukio is the first bond that she forged outside of the confines of her home. They both are important to her, and she appreciates and enjoys her relationship with the both of them. However, this is also a source of confusion for her, as she’s not certain as to whether she regards either of them in a romantic light. Ultimately, she determines that she has potentially romantic feelings for Rin in a moment that conveys how happy and free she feels in his presence.

Parallel Growth and Journeys

Before delving into this particular topic, I would first like to state that I’m well aware that there are parallels underlying other relationships- both platonic and potentially romantic- in this story. I understand that this isn’t something that is exclusive to this ship and that the usage of this technique might also work favorably for the others, but I would like to focus on how the presence of parallels helps in developing it, nonetheless.

Something that I believe enhances the development of Rin and Shiemi’s relationship are the parallels that exist between their respective character arcs. This, in turn, allows for them to become a couple for various reasons. In order to discuss these parallels and their implications for developing this ship, however, the characters involved must first be explored individually.

Rin Okumura

Rin is introduced as a rebel with no prospects, due to his failure to properly apply himself and fit in. However, he is far from lazy or needlessly violent. On the contrary, he has been shown to have a big heart. He is very supportive of Yukio’s dream to become a doctor.

Moreover, he starts a fight with a group of delinquents, because he is upset with their cruel treatment of pigeons. This fight is particularly important, because it provides insight into Rin’s character. In showing us what triggered his anger, we can better understand his personality. Even if he is tough, he still is kind and has a strong moral compass, which consists of his desire to protect weaker beings. He only engages in fights when he becomes upset about something and finds the need to stand up for his beliefs. But as a hot-headed person, it’s easy for his temper to surface.

However, Rin is also rather insecure, which has been reinforced multiple times in different contexts. On one hand, he believes that he cannot amount to anything, even though he earnestly wants to make something of himself. What’s interesting to note is that this low self-esteem also contributes to Rin’s anger. It is a sore spot for him, which we observe when he unwittingly causes the stove to explode in the heat of his anger when discussing the sensitive topic of his future.

Another source of Rin’s insecurities is his isolation from everyone. He’s been seen as a monster time and time again, and the rather violent manifestation of his anger at times has contributed rather significantly to this problem. This has prevented him from forming any meaningful bonds, beyond those that he has at home. (In fact, it’s arguable that this is the source of his other problems. Despite all of this, Rin still wants to prove himself and clearly is open to the possibility of forming bonds with others. We see this when he tells Shiro that he’ll convince him that he’s grown up and capable of handling responsibility.

Rin’s actions during Shiro’s fight against Satan and subsequent death also speak volumes about how highly he values his bonds and that he fears any loss or instability ruining them. All of his emotions surface at the heat of the moment when he lashes out at Shiro and accuses him of wanting to get rid of him. His angry response to Shiro’s intent to send him away for his own safety conveys his insecurities about their relationship; he doesn’t want any sort of distance between them- whether it’s physical or emotional- to undermine it. Of course, Shiro sending Rin away because he does not want to be around him couldn’t be further from he truth, but Rin’s confusion and desperation to stay with his father override his desire and need to understand what’s occurring.

It is these feelings that shape Rin’s behavior throughout the course of the story. Not only is he intent on avenging his father’s death, but he also comes to cherish his newfound friendships. Rin’s character development is reflected in how he connects with his friends and approaches his duties as an exorcist. He is very committed to his responsibilities and tries to follow through on them. In school, rather than keeping to himself or giving up, due to his insecurities, he is quite involved and makes an effort to keep up with everything. The most notable instance of this is his exorcist training; Rin truly applies himself and shows considerable growth. While it’s obvious that part of this has to do with the fact that his life is in jeopardy and he wants to exact revenge for his father’s death (for which he must train very hard, considering that his opponent is very formidable), he still shows more commitment to his training than he did to his job search at the beginning of the story. Unlike in the beginning, his insecurities (which arguably still exist) do not deter him from pursuing his goal.

Rin starts from the bottom, knowing nothing, and is actually making something of himself now. He doesn’t entertain the idea of failure and only considers how he can grow. And, while he still struggles with his insecurities and the need to prove himself, he is better able to cope with these feelings and move forward, because he now has good friends on whom he can rely and more direction in his life.

Shiemi Moriyama

Shiemi is introduced in the story as someone who is relatively sheltered and whose goals have originated within the narrow confines of her home. Her only concern is maintaining her grandmother’s garden and finding the Garden of Amahara. She’s a very gentle and kind person, and she approaches this particular goal of hers with genuine love and pride. This is also the source of Shiemi’s conflict with her mother, who insists that she take better care of herself, while she passionately defends her actions and persists in pursuing her goals.

However, her interaction with Rin (as well as her friendship and interest in Yukio) motivates her to explore the world outside of the narrow one that she has built for herself. She wants to learn more and grow stronger, despite whatever limitations she has.

Over time, Shiemi gradually becomes her own person and matures considerably. She discovers and tries to hone her abilities. Furthermore, she realizes that she cannot always look up to and solely rely on Rin and Yukio and that she must forge her own path, which prompts her to try to establish friendships with the others in the exorcist cram school.

Of course, it takes a while for Shiemi to connect with the others, such that their bonds are founded on mutual understanding and respect. A notable example of this is actually her relationship with Rin. When she goes in to retrieve him from the execution chamber, Shiemi sees the great extent of Rin’s despair and fear and shamefully realizes that this is something that she has grossly neglected heretofore. This prompts her to understand that she has approached their friendship the wrong way and that she was selfish in only looking to Rin for help and for recoiling from him upon learning of his heritage. In order to be a true friend to him, she must stand by him and help him deal with his negative emotions. As someone who is first and foremost his friend, she will support him, no matter what.

The Growth of the Two

In comparing Rin and Shiemi’s growth throughout the story, thus far, various parallels can be drawn between their respective journeys. They’re both initially lonely individuals who are trying to find themselves. While they do have skills and interests, they have yet to properly apply themselves and find a suitable manner in which they can explore, improve, and utilize them, but they still want to grow stronger. In this process, they both mature and learn a great deal.

What’s interesting to note is that, compared to their peers, they start off with relatively less knowledge of exorcism. However, they both work hard and are able to catch up to them. Their personal growth, especially in regard to their friendships, is rather similar, as well. As they grow closer to their friends, they gain deeper perspectives about friendship, such as the importance of looking out for the others and acknowledging that it is acceptable to rely on them.

The similarities in their growth places them in a suitable position to bring out the best in one another. Seeing Rin’s depression and despair in the execution chamber allows Shiemi to better understand friendship, which is an important part of her development. Likewise, Rin first shows his ability to empathize with others when he meets Shiemi, and, while showing care and support isn’t exclusive to their relationship, he shows an understanding of her that exceeds what he has demonstrated in his relationship with their other friends. He is able to comprehend her feelings about different matters and is particularly solicitous of her. (I will explore this more in the next section.)

These similar paths in their individual character arcs, combined with their mutual romantic interest, allows for them to smoothly come together as a couple. Their respective journeys can easily bring them together.

“Always Looking Closely” at Each Other

An interesting observation that Yukio makes early on is that Shiemi is “always looking closely” at Rin.

He’s noticed that Rin has had a very deep impact on her and has inspired her in a special way, more than what he has been able to do for her (although they were friends first).

Beyond initially watching only Rin and Yukio in the context of the goals that she aspires to accomplish, Shiemi shows that she’s increasingly perceptive of Rin. The most notable example of this is when she goes to retrieve him from the execution chamber. She sees and understands firsthand the anguish that he feels because of what he is, which goes beyond noticing that his isolation from the group is unfair to him. She sees that there is more to his pain than exclusion. This leads to her realizing that Rin requires more from her as a friend than merely being together.

Shiemi also comes to have a better understanding of Rin’s motivations and feelings. An example of this is when she realizes the reason for Rin’s behavior when they met and that there’s still a great deal that doesn’t know about him [and Yukio]. This leads to Shiemi ultimately deciding [and declaring] that she’ll stand by Rin and do whatever she can to help and support him. She especially will not let him be alone or hurt like he was before.

Rin also is particularly observant when it comes to Shiemi. He is able to understand her goals and behavior in a way that no one else has been, heretofore. An instance of this is when he talks to Shiemi about her reasons for joining the exorcist cram school.

Another example of this is in the most recent arc, wherein he notices how serious she is about rescuing Izumo and Renzou. Naturally, everyone wants to save their friends, but he sees just how important this matter is to Shiemi. Moreover, he’s struck by how strong and passionate she is, something of which only he has taken notice here.

Moreover, Rin himself states that Shiemi encourages him; he regards her as a source of strength.

In this particular scene, the blush that crosses his face suggests that his way of looking at her is special, that she means a lot to him and that her effect on him is particularly strong.

Rin and Shiemi are clearly important to one another. They have had a significant impact and role in each other’s lives and have consequently been able to mature and become stronger.

All of these different moments and layers underlying Rin and Shiemi’s relationship hint at a high possibility of a deep romantic relationship being realized between them.

Description
This is a fun, [not-so-]short essay I decided to write, because I feel like this pairing deserves more meta [and love]. Plus, with the exception of making a sideblog for it, I haven’t really given it as much time and attention as I wish I could.

Anyway, I’ve placed the contents of this post under the cut, so that it doesn’t take up a lot of room and so that anyone who isn’t interested or of the same mind can easily skip over it. With that having been said, please respect that this is merely my opinion (read: my acknowledgement that there’s room for inaccuracies, especially considering that this is an ongoing series) and that I’m consequently not looking to engage in any sort of debates.

Thank you, and enjoy!

Mutual Interest

No discussion of Rin and Shiemi’s relationship would be complete without exploring their romantic interest in one another. It is the most superficial and noticeable aspect of their relationship, although there is so much more to it. As such, I will attempt to tackle this matter before moving on to the others.

From the beginning, we’ve seen signs that Rin’s interest in Shiemi is more than platonic. When they formally introduce themselves and move to shake hands, a blush tints Rin’s face.

Rin’s reaction extends beyond the awkwardness of meeting a new acquaintance, something that is, in and of itself, important for him, given the circumstances in his life. What confirms this- And this is something interesting to note.- is Rin’s body language when he first sees Shiemi. He not only seems to be struck by her (which is conveyed by how his eyes have enlarged upon alighting on her during his study of the garden), but he also appears to want to approach her, as indicated by his slightly lifted hand that is very close to touching the gate.

This establishes the context of Rin’s blush during this initial interaction between him and Shiemi; his embarrassment in getting closer to her, even if it’s through the simple contact of shaking hands and introducing themselves, is rooted in his newfound interest in her.

Different interactions that they share and the growth in their relationship, which I will further explore in other portions of this post and hopefully in future meta, reveal that Rin’s feelings for Shiemi become deeper and that there is substance to them.

On her part, Shiemi initially views Rin as a friend. Just the same, her relationship with Yukio is the first bond that she forged outside of the confines of her home. They both are important to her, and she appreciates and enjoys her relationship with the both of them. However, this is also a source of confusion for her, as she’s not certain as to whether she regards either of them in a romantic light. Ultimately, she determines that she has potentially romantic feelings for Rin in a moment that conveys how happy and free she feels in his presence.

Parallel Growth and Journeys

Before delving into this particular topic, I would first like to state that I’m well aware that there are parallels underlying other relationships- both platonic and potentially romantic- in this story. I understand that this isn’t something that is exclusive to this ship and that the usage of this technique might also work favorably for the others, but I would like to focus on how the presence of parallels helps in developing it, nonetheless.

Something that I believe enhances the development of Rin and Shiemi’s relationship are the parallels that exist between their respective character arcs. This, in turn, allows for them to become a couple for various reasons. In order to discuss these parallels and their implications for developing this ship, however, the characters involved must first be explored individually.

Rin Okumura

Rin is introduced as a rebel with no prospects, due to his failure to properly apply himself and fit in. However, he is far from lazy or needlessly violent. On the contrary, he has been shown to have a big heart. He is very supportive of Yukio’s dream to become a doctor.

Moreover, he starts a fight with a group of delinquents, because he is upset with their cruel treatment of pigeons. This fight is particularly important, because it provides insight into Rin’s character. In showing us what triggered his anger, we can better understand his personality. Even if he is tough, he still is kind and has a strong moral compass, which consists of his desire to protect weaker beings. He only engages in fights when he becomes upset about something and finds the need to stand up for his beliefs. But as a hot-headed person, it’s easy for his temper to surface.

However, Rin is also rather insecure, which has been reinforced multiple times in different contexts. On one hand, he believes that he cannot amount to anything, even though he earnestly wants to make something of himself. What’s interesting to note is that this low self-esteem also contributes to Rin’s anger. It is a sore spot for him, which we observe when he unwittingly causes the stove to explode in the heat of his anger when discussing the sensitive topic of his future.

Another source of Rin’s insecurities is his isolation from everyone. He’s been seen as a monster time and time again, and the rather violent manifestation of his anger at times has contributed rather significantly to this problem. This has prevented him from forming any meaningful bonds, beyond those that he has at home. (In fact, it’s arguable that this is the source of his other problems. Despite all of this, Rin still wants to prove himself and clearly is open to the possibility of forming bonds with others. We see this when he tells Shiro that he’ll convince him that he’s grown up and capable of handling responsibility.

Rin’s actions during Shiro’s fight against Satan and subsequent death also speak volumes about how highly he values his bonds and that he fears any loss or instability ruining them. All of his emotions surface at the heat of the moment when he lashes out at Shiro and accuses him of wanting to get rid of him. His angry response to Shiro’s intent to send him away for his own safety conveys his insecurities about their relationship; he doesn’t want any sort of distance between them- whether it’s physical or emotional- to undermine it. Of course, Shiro sending Rin away because he does not want to be around him couldn’t be further from he truth, but Rin’s confusion and desperation to stay with his father override his desire and need to understand what’s occurring.

It is these feelings that shape Rin’s behavior throughout the course of the story. Not only is he intent on avenging his father’s death, but he also comes to cherish his newfound friendships. Rin’s character development is reflected in how he connects with his friends and approaches his duties as an exorcist. He is very committed to his responsibilities and tries to follow through on them. In school, rather than keeping to himself or giving up, due to his insecurities, he is quite involved and makes an effort to keep up with everything. The most notable instance of this is his exorcist training; Rin truly applies himself and shows considerable growth. While it’s obvious that part of this has to do with the fact that his life is in jeopardy and he wants to exact revenge for his father’s death (for which he must train very hard, considering that his opponent is very formidable), he still shows more commitment to his training than he did to his job search at the beginning of the story. Unlike in the beginning, his insecurities (which arguably still exist) do not deter him from pursuing his goal.

Rin starts from the bottom, knowing nothing, and is actually making something of himself now. He doesn’t entertain the idea of failure and only considers how he can grow. And, while he still struggles with his insecurities and the need to prove himself, he is better able to cope with these feelings and move forward, because he now has good friends on whom he can rely and more direction in his life.

Shiemi Moriyama

Shiemi is introduced in the story as someone who is relatively sheltered and whose goals have originated within the narrow confines of her home. Her only concern is maintaining her grandmother’s garden and finding the Garden of Amahara. She’s a very gentle and kind person, and she approaches this particular goal of hers with genuine love and pride. This is also the source of Shiemi’s conflict with her mother, who insists that she take better care of herself, while she passionately defends her actions and persists in pursuing her goals.

However, her interaction with Rin (as well as her friendship and interest in Yukio) motivates her to explore the world outside of the narrow one that she has built for herself. She wants to learn more and grow stronger, despite whatever limitations she has.

Over time, Shiemi gradually becomes her own person and matures considerably. She discovers and tries to hone her abilities. Furthermore, she realizes that she cannot always look up to and solely rely on Rin and Yukio and that she must forge her own path, which prompts her to try to establish friendships with the others in the exorcist cram school.

Of course, it takes a while for Shiemi to connect with the others, such that their bonds are founded on mutual understanding and respect. A notable example of this is actually her relationship with Rin. When she goes in to retrieve him from the execution chamber, Shiemi sees the great extent of Rin’s despair and fear and shamefully realizes that this is something that she has grossly neglected heretofore. This prompts her to understand that she has approached their friendship the wrong way and that she was selfish in only looking to Rin for help and for recoiling from him upon learning of his heritage. In order to be a true friend to him, she must stand by him and help him deal with his negative emotions. As someone who is first and foremost his friend, she will support him, no matter what.

The Growth of the Two

In comparing Rin and Shiemi’s growth throughout the story, thus far, various parallels can be drawn between their respective journeys. They’re both initially lonely individuals who are trying to find themselves. While they do have skills and interests, they have yet to properly apply themselves and find a suitable manner in which they can explore, improve, and utilize them, but they still want to grow stronger. In this process, they both mature and learn a great deal.

What’s interesting to note is that, compared to their peers, they start off with relatively less knowledge of exorcism. However, they both work hard and are able to catch up to them. Their personal growth, especially in regard to their friendships, is rather similar, as well. As they grow closer to their friends, they gain deeper perspectives about friendship, such as the importance of looking out for the others and acknowledging that it is acceptable to rely on them.

The similarities in their growth places them in a suitable position to bring out the best in one another. Seeing Rin’s depression and despair in the execution chamber allows Shiemi to better understand friendship, which is an important part of her development. Likewise, Rin first shows his ability to empathize with others when he meets Shiemi, and, while showing care and support isn’t exclusive to their relationship, he shows an understanding of her that exceeds what he has demonstrated in his relationship with their other friends. He is able to comprehend her feelings about different matters and is particularly solicitous of her. (I will explore this more in the next section.)

These similar paths in their individual character arcs, combined with their mutual romantic interest, allows for them to smoothly come together as a couple. Their respective journeys can easily bring them together.

“Always Looking Closely” at Each Other

An interesting observation that Yukio makes early on is that Shiemi is “always looking closely” at Rin.

He’s noticed that Rin has had a very deep impact on her and has inspired her in a special way, more than what he has been able to do for her (although they were friends first).

Beyond initially watching only Rin and Yukio in the context of the goals that she aspires to accomplish, Shiemi shows that she’s increasingly perceptive of Rin. The most notable example of this is when she goes to retrieve him from the execution chamber. She sees and understands firsthand the anguish that he feels because of what he is, which goes beyond noticing that his isolation from the group is unfair to him. She sees that there is more to his pain than exclusion. This leads to her realizing that Rin requires more from her as a friend than merely being together.

Shiemi also comes to have a better understanding of Rin’s motivations and feelings. An example of this is when she realizes the reason for Rin’s behavior when they met and that there’s still a great deal that doesn’t know about him [and Yukio]. This leads to Shiemi ultimately deciding [and declaring] that she’ll stand by Rin and do whatever she can to help and support him. She especially will not let him be alone or hurt like he was before.

Rin also is particularly observant when it comes to Shiemi. He is able to understand her goals and behavior in a way that no one else has been, heretofore. An instance of this is when he talks to Shiemi about her reasons for joining the exorcist cram school.

Another example of this is in the most recent arc, wherein he notices how serious she is about rescuing Izumo and Renzou. Naturally, everyone wants to save their friends, but he sees just how important this matter is to Shiemi. Moreover, he’s struck by how strong and passionate she is, something of which only he has taken notice here.

Moreover, Rin himself states that Shiemi encourages him; he regards her as a source of strength.

In this particular scene, the blush that crosses his face suggests that his way of looking at her is special, that she means a lot to him and that her effect on him is particularly strong.

Rin and Shiemi are clearly important to one another. They have had a significant impact and role in each other’s lives and have consequently been able to mature and become stronger.

All of these different moments and layers underlying Rin and Shiemi’s relationship hint at a high possibility of a deep romantic relationship being realized between them.