Sakura

Kino's relationship with the original Kino is the defining relationship of the series, and watching Kino blossom under his influence was simply beautiful. One of the things that truly underlines it is watching it play back again- this time, in Kino's relationship with Sakura.

Sakura's character is extremely similar to that of the young Kino. Sakura lives with her parents, working at their inn. She is made fun of by boys over her name, and doesn't appear to have any other friends. When Kino arrives into town, Sakura clings to her, inviting her to their inn and offering to show her around town. Sakura always wanted to be a tour guide, and Kino was her first customer, so the two of them forged a strong bond very quickly. Sakura helped her get her gun fixed and showed her around town- in exchange, Kino taught her to ride Hermes and caught seeds for her at a wedding. Sakura saw Kino the same way that Kino saw the original Kino- someone who blew into town with different ideals, that she could learn from.

However, the main difference between those relationships is the ending. Kino, usually so stoic and stubborn in the requirements of her trip, wanted to stay a few extra days. Even Sakura's parents told her that she should go on a trip like Kino, but she refused. After Kino left, even Hermes was shocked that she would put forth such an offer. To Kino, it was most likely because she saw so much of her old self in Sakura. Not only that, but Kino never really had any friends like that before, so it is easy to see why she would be so attached to Sakura.

Later that night, when Kino is sleeping, she is awakened and disturbed by a bad feeling. In front of her very eyes, she watches as a pyroclastic flow (something like a volcano eruption) covers the city where Sakura lived, killing everyone instantly as Hermes described. Kino was so shocked she just about collapsed. To her, it probably felt like she had failed protecting someone again- she couldn't save Sakura, like the original Kino saved her. Also, for a character so surrounded by death, it is clear that Kino still does care about those around her.

Afterwards, Kino read a letter from the townspeople explaining that they wanted to die with their town, along with the seeds she caught for Sakura. All Kino could say was "Ego.. this is their ego." as she left.

Sakura was a huge influence on Kino. They were fast friends, just like her and the original Kino, and then Kino had to watch as she died, helplessly. Sakura was a really tragic character, and her relationship with Kino really solidified her place in the series.

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